Heartwarming and uplifting story of friendship that grows into love

The Christmas competition is the 10th Christmas mountain story. In this lovely new addition we get to know Ruby Curtis. She has a cute small-town doggie spa. Things are going very well, but because of the growth the location is not big enough anymore. She needs a bigger location. The perfect chance arrives when the holiday competition is announced. Ruby could win a renovating building off Main Street, that would be perfect!
Connor Reed is her best friend's older brother. He is also in the competition, practically the whole town is. For Connor there are some personal reasons to win the building besides wanting it for his family's bank.
Connor is always teasing Ruby, he has done so since they were kids. But now that they are spending more and more time together, sparks begin to fly. Ruby starts to realise that Connor is more than the annoying older brother of her bestie. He is actually pretty nice (and really hot) but giving in to those feelings might risk their friendship.

The best thing about this book is that it really sucks you right into that lovely small town and the holiday spirit. The surroundings are beautiful, the characters are heartwarming and it is so great to see how a childhood friendship evolves into a beautiful love story. The holiday spirit is everywhere, the setting with the competition doesn't bring mean streaks but is ever inspiring and uplifting. Ruby and Connor don't ever put the other one down to get the building. It's warm and emotional to see them growing closer. The ultimate Christmas love. A very enjoyable and sweet story.

Although Susan Hatler is a New York Times bestselling author, this was the first book I read of her. I will make sure to read more!

Thank you Netgalley and Hatco publishing for letting me read an ARC. I offer my opinion freely.