MISTLETOE AND MR. RIGHT is the second book in Sarah Morgenthaler’s “Moose Springs, Alaska” series. Although it’s part of a series, I think MISTLETOE AND MR. RIGHT works as a standalone novel. This, for me, could work as a Hallmark movie – but not quite as saccharine. There are oodles of quirky characters, Christmas small-town flavor, and heartwarming scenes. Lana Montgomery – socialite and businesswoman – and Rick Harding – chill local hero with a heart of gold, have an attraction to each other but it’s the behemoth known as “the Santa Moose” that brings them together.

Lana and Rick are somewhat on opposite ends of the economic spectrum. Lana is from a wealthy entrepreneurial family while Rick is barely eking out a living running the local pool hall. Neither of them run true to stereotypes, which is refreshing. Lana may have a lot of cash, but she also has a lot of heart, is extremely friendly and approachable, as well as grounded. Rick is a total sweetie. His ex-wife left him, and he’s taking care of his – now 20yr old – nephew Diego, and a few miscellaneous odd yet ridiculously cute pets. Lana wants to build a condominium in the town of Moose Springs. The problem is that she needs the approval from the town council, and they are not wild about her or her proposal. In fact, the townsfolk give Lana an artic reception wherever she goes. What the people of Moose Springs don’t understand, is that Lana has fond memories of the town from her youth and wants to help the town and not hurt it. Rick has his own complicated reasons for not liking tourists and wanting development. Despite the main conflict, there isn’t a lot of angst or anger-fueled town mob scenes. It’s more like Lana working hard to change the town’s thinking about her and the development. As she works toward her goal, Rick offers an ear to listen to hear and support. This story is told from alternating perspectives, so the reader gets a better sense of who Lana and Rick really are, and their true feelings for each other. This couple is adorable as they flirt and develop a friendship that turns to more. The sexual tension and chemistry is fab. At times, the scenes between Lana and Rick remind me of the snappy banter typical of a 1940s film.

MISTLETOE AND MR. RIGHT has plenty of heart, quirky characters galore, and a sweet love story. The friendships in MISTLETOE AND MR. RIGHT are strong and played an important role in the story, and the development of the romance. Although this is the first book I’ve read by this author, I look forward to reading her next.