Banning Santa
by Mikael Carlson
Genre: Romance / Holiday
ISBN: 9781944972332
Print Length: 308 pages
Reviewed by Melissa Suggitt
A captivating holiday romance that rekindles the Christmas spirit with a unique twist on the Santa Claus narrative
Mikael Carlson’s Banning Santa is a delightful and heartwarming holiday romance that captures the essence of the Christmas season.
The story revolves around Congresswoman Camilla Guzman’s crusade to ban public depictions of Santa Claus in America, driven by her frustration with the commercialization of Christmas. It’s a thought-provoking premise that sets the stage for a narrative filled with humor, romance, and, most importantly, a rekindling of the Christmas spirit.
The central conflict arises when Congressman John Knutson and Congresswoman Angela Pratt oppose Camilla’s bill, dispatching their staffers, Wyatt Huffman and Stowe Bessett, on a whimsical journey to locate a Santa Claus willing to testify at the congressional hearing. This quest takes them from an unexpected and incredibly romantic detour in Iceland to the frosty landscapes of Finland where the real magic of Banning Santa begins.
Carlson portrays the slow-burn, enemies to lovers story between Stowe and Wyatt with two vividly depicted characters who initially couldn’t be more different. Stowe’s icy exterior is palpable, making her transformation all the more heartwarming as she discovers the warmth and goodness in the ruggedly good-looking Wyatt. The gradual thawing of Stowe’s cold heart is beautifully written and reinforces the message to readers that encourages us all to open our hearts and embrace the positivity and love that the holidays can bring.
What sets Banning Santa apart is the tension-building between Wyatt and Stowe. Carlson crafts this smoldering romance with finesse, leading readers to root for the characters and eagerly await the moment when they finally give in to their feelings. The chemistry between these characters is not only exciting but also a reminder of the power of love during the holidays.
Carlson paints vivid pictures of both the snowy landscapes and the emotions of the characters. The novel effectively balances the political backdrop with the heartwarming elements of the story. It’s the kind of book that will make you want to curl up with a hot cocoa, immersing yourself in the charm and wonder of Christmas, and maybe even restore your faith in American politics. (I said maybe!)
In the end, this a delightful holiday romance that will rekindle your Christmas spirit. With its engaging storyline, well-crafted characters, and a touch of magic, emotionally uplifiting book would be an enchanting addition to your holiday reading list.
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