The Baker's Heart (A Balsam Grove Christmas) by Marianne Rice

GRANT
I’m not cut out for city life. Tried it. Didn’t work. Finally, I’m doing what makes me happy: baking. I’m about to take the plunge and open my own shop… until a tall, sophisticated, gorgeous brunette puts a bid on the space I’m after.

The town comes up with ridiculous terms and our only option is to share the same storefront. I’m not too concerned. Once she tires of the simplicity and slowness of Balsam Grove, Maine, she’ll leave for bigger and better things. It won’t be the first time I’ve witnessed it.

EVELYN
Needing kitchen therapy more than I do an upscale and unsatisfying lifestyle, I say goodbye to Boston to chase my dreams of opening an allergen-friendly donut shop. I find the perfect bakery location, but it means I have to share the space with Grant Hudson. He’s easy on the eyes, but he’s as cold as the frosting on his ice cream cakes.

But his frosty exterior quickly melts as soon as we become business partners. Before long, his dimples come out, and we’re sharing laughs and recipes, and he even shares his family’s holiday traditions with me. I swear I’m addicted to more than just his delicious, mouth-watering cupcakes.

But there’s a layer he keeps hidden, and it isn’t until his past walks in that all his sugary words turn bitter, along with my newfound belief in the holiday spirit.