Can the brawny publican free the dedicated nurse from the clutches of a grinch and give the woman he's always loved the Christmas she dreams of? Grace White refuses to be forced into marriage to save the family property, a defiance which enrages her controlling father. Determined to follow her own dreams, Grace has established herself as a nurse in her hometown of Elizadale and wants to share her passion for yoga by opening her own studio. But other dreams may never come true. Tormented by her father's schemes, Grace can't risk falling in love. Luke Smithfield has taken over the family pub and seizes the opportunity to update the menu. But his garnished ideas may be too gourmet to draw in the locals and he longs to make his dad proud. When Grace White shares his enthusiasm for the menu change, Luke doesn't hesitate in enlisting her help. He needs a taste tester, and his sister's best friend has become too pretty to ignore. As desire ignites in the kitchen, Grace and Luke encourage each other to accomplish their goals for the New Year. But can Grace find the strength to open her heart to Luke? Or will her father's wrath sabotage the joy she finds this Christmas and leave her alone once again? A spinoff prequel to the Shadow Creek series