Hill Bear Christmas by Ariana Hawkes

A gutsy B&B owner with a ski-resort-sized problem. A single father and his children who never celebrate Christmas. Together, can they bring the magic of Christmas to their hometown?

Grace Jensen has been working hard to prepare the small log cabin business she runs with her mother for the most exciting time of the year – Christmas. She loves her job, and it keeps her thoughts away from her divorce. But when a flashy ski resort opens nearby, and starts stealing local business, the holiday season suddenly looks bleak, not just for Grace and her mother, but for everyone in Powderwood. Grace is determined to not give up without a fight, and when she meets Alec, a shifter from the famous Hill Bear clan, she finds a partner in crime. Too bad that he’s a rugged bear god, with the kindest heart she’s ever known. She’s still hurting from the past and just wants to get through Christmas in one piece.

Alec Hill and his clan don’t celebrate Christmas, which is lucky, since the new ski resort that’s been built beside their ancestral territory is turning December into a miserable month. When he discovers that the humans of nearby Powderwood are also suffering—particularly a small, cheerful, feisty one named Grace—he can’t help but get involved. Nothing to do with the fact that his kids love her, or that her sparkling blue eyes and courageous spirit get his bear roaring. He’s sworn off finding a second mate.

Grace is full of festive ideas that might just help both communities save their livelihoods—but they also have the effect of bringing her and Alec closer and closer. As she teaches his kids what the holiday season is about, will a Powderwood Christmas be second-time lucky for Grace and her big, growly bear?