With the elves about to strike and the reindeer up to new games, Simon is willing to try anything to help Nick get the North Pole under control, even help find a Mrs. Claus. Surprisingly, he receives plenty of applicants for the job. Beatrice Raymond stands out from the pack, but does Simon want her for himself or for Nick?

This is pure romantic fun. Ms. Douglas does a wonderful job making this story come alive with all the novelty, characters, and antics of the North Pole. She does it with such humor and candor that it never strays into a clichéd holiday story. Santa’s helpers lend authenticity to the setting and fun to the story while still staying distinctly in the background. The relationship between Nick, Simon, and Bea takes center stage. These three are realistic characters readers can’t help but like. Even as Simon and Bea are drawn to each other, they don’t want to hurt Nick. Yet their attraction to each other is unmistakable and culminates in passionate, heartfelt love scenes. The erotic connection between Simon and Bea is well written and I love the balance between passion and caring. The ending has this reader hoping another trip to the North Pole is not far away.

Reviewed by: Amanda S.