THE TWELVE DATES OF CHRISTMAS is Susan Meier's follow-up
to
her previous book DARING TO TRUST THE BOSS. Although this
is the first book by Susan Meier I've read, I was still
able to follow and enjoy this story without reading the
previous book. However, I enjoyed reading THE TWELVE DATES
OF CHRISTMAS so much that I'm going to hunt down a copy of
that other book.
THE TWELVE DATES OF CHRISTMAS has one of my favorite
romance tropes -- the pretend relationship. Wealthy
businessman Ricky Langley believes having a date for some
social gatherings, and having the appearance of being in a
relationship will help take some scrutiny off him from
friends as well as business colleagues. When the holiday
season is thrown into the mix, things are even more fun.
I
like how Susan Meier balances the lighter, sexy moments
along with the more intense and dramatic scenes. Ricky and
Eloise are both complex characters and both have suffered
a
tragic loss -- his young son, and her husband. I like that
they have that connection and can relate with that kind of
tragedy. However, I'm glad that THE TWELVE DATES OF
CHRISTMAS is told from both points-of-view, since they are
very slow to reveal themselves fully -- Ricky slower than
Eloise.
The story starts out very fun and flirty. Eloise is a
great
character and I like how pragmatic she is to not be
immediately offended or defensive when Ricky makes his
proposition. I think she puts herself out there
emotionally, without appearing like a fool. I like how
Susan Meier establishes the wonderful chemistry between
them almost immediately by the easy banter they have. The
romance that develops between Ricky and Eloise seems to
flow very naturally and doesn't feel forced or artificial.
There is a feeling of excitement and anticipation to their
burgeoning relationship.
THE TWELVE DATES OF CHRISTMAS is the right balance of
sexy,
light, fun, and intense that makes for a great romance. I
look forward to reading the previous companion book as
well
as more books by Susan Meier in the future. I hope Susan
Meier writes a story for Eloise's roommate.
The perfect business arrangement?
When entrepreneur Ricky Langley offers Eloise Vaughn the
help she needs, in exchange for her attending twelve
Christmas parties as his date, she can't refuse. Yes,
Ricky's handsome, and devastatingly charming, but this is
about business. If only her racing heart would get the
message!
Ricky has his own reasons for hating Christmas. But with
each date that passes Eloise opens his eyes to the spirit
of
the season…and opens his heart to a totally different
future…