This is the third in the series, and I have already read the first two (combined in one volume), to which I gave 5 stars. All take place in the small British town of Carlton Heath at Christmas time. Each book tells the story of the same family during consecutive Christmases and each focuses on a different main character. It's fun to read about the family and how they and their situations change over the three years.

This story is about young American cousin Anna, who has returned to Carlton Heath at the invitation of family after her first trip last May, when she attended a beautiful family wedding (at the conclusion of book #2). And most importantly, she is hoping to rekindle a relationship with Peter, a groomsman who caught her eye.

The bulk of this novella is Peter blowing hot and cold about whether he can have a serious relationship with Anna. Of course there is a "secret" Peter shares at the end that explains his hesitancy. The story is told from Anna's point of view, so we learn her thoughts and witness her spiritual growth. This angle helps to provide more depth to the story, although it isn't overly religious and I think all readers would feel comfortable with Anna's insights.

If you enjoy Christmas stories you'll want to read this feel-good tale with plenty of snow, lots of Christmas treats, delightful presents, trees and ornaments, warm crackling fires, and Dickens' A Christmas Carol performed annually in the local small-town theater. ( )

The concluding book of the Father Christmas trilogy finds Anna again visiting England. She had met Peter at Miranda’s wedding, and was looking forward to their budding relationship growing into something deeper. But when she returns, Peter is off-putting and distant. This novel explores the consequences of keeping secrets, its detrimental effects, and the cleansing relief that forgiving one’s self can bring. It’s a lovely tale and a fitting way to end the series. ( )

A perfect story to enjoy this time of year. When Anna returns to England for Christmas, she is hoping to continue a romantic relationship briefly begun when she visited previously. Anna loves this side of her family and the heartwarming way Christmas is celebrated in a small village. When her love interest lets her know he can only be friends, Anna is disappointed but is determined to enjoy Christmas anyway. She enjoys helping with village activities and is able to work on her sketches which are more appreciated here than back home. Will her Christmas wishes come true? ( )

"Kissing Father Christmas" is the third book in the Father Christmas Series by Robin Jones Gunn. I enjoyed this story, but not as much as the first two. Perhaps it is because the main characters were not really part of the previous books. Anna, Ian's cousin from Minnesota, has returned to the village of Carlton Heath a year after Miranda and Ian's wedding. At the wedding she connected with Ian's friend Peter and is hoping that this visit will solidify a relationship. She can't forget the good-night kiss they shared after their last dance of the evening. After he last visit to Whitcombe Manor, she was invited back to spend Christmas with her British side of the family.

Once again we enter the magical world of Carlton Heath, with romance, family and Christmas traditions, love, and most importantly faith. Although Anna is disappointed when Peter explains that he hoped she did not misinterpret his kiss and that he just wants to be friends, she decides that she will not run away, but spend the holidays as planned and not return in the Spring as Ellie had suggested. Peter has some secrets that he is afraid to share with anyone, but finally breaks down and shares them with Anna. She is determined not to give up, and she convinces Peter that he needs to allow hope and grace into his life.

This book sets the mood for a joyous season and brings alive the true meaning of Christmas. Love, Joy, Hope and Grace once again lead the way in Carlton Heath. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley. ( )

In Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn we return to Carlton Heath. Anna (related to Andrew) was in England a year and a half ago for the wedding of Miranda and Ian. Anna fell in love with Carlton Heath, and she particularly enjoyed a kiss from groomsman, Peter Elliott. Anna has been invited back to Carlton Heath for Christmas, and Anna is hoping to spend more time with Peter. Unfortunately, Peter is not of a similar mind. He only wants to be friends. Peter is pushing Anna away because he has a secret (which many people in the village know about). But fate keeps pushing these two together. Is there a chance for a happily ever after?

Kissing Father Christmas is well-written and easy to read. The book has good characters and a beautiful setting (I want to live in Carlton Heath). I liked Anna’s creativity (she is an artist who wants to create children’s books). I recommend reading Finding Father Christmas and Engaging Father Christmas before reading Kissing Father Christmas (otherwise you will be confused). I give Kissing Father Christmas 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). It is a sweet and romantic novel (though it does have an expected ending). We get updates on Miranda, Ian, Andrew, and Katherine. Kissing Father Christmas is great way to spend a cold Saturday afternoon. You can snuggle up in a chair with a blanket, your favorite beverage and some chocolate. Happy Reading! ( )