Reeling from the fallout of a life-altering family secret, Drake Vargas is in no mood for the Christmas season. His signature scowl and icy attitude make him the ultimate Grinch of Vargas Ranch, and the last thing he wants is to deal with his annoyingly cheerful new barista.
Candi Kaine lives and breathes Christmas magic. Armed with a relentless optimism and a mission to spread joy, she’s ready to take on her grumpy boss. Whether it’s through twinkling lights, holiday tunes, or peppermint mochas, Candi is determined to drag Drake—dancing into the holiday spirit.
As holiday traditions clash and tempers flare, Candi’s unyielding cheer might just break down Drake’s walls—or push her limits. Can this cowboy rediscover the joy of Christmas, or will Candi’s unshakable spirit finally meet its match?
Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.
Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.