“Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” — Dale Evans Spirited Jeseca Reed. Withdrawn Dr. David Drake. Each have known loss. Both have felt heartache. A week before Christmas, Jeseca Reed sets off for rustic Blue River, Oregon—her childhood home and a vault of tender memories. However, fate takes an unexpected turn when she’s left stranded in the mountains’ vast, untamed wilderness. Desperate and alone, she seeks shelter at a cottage and finds herself in the arms of a mysterious stranger. Dr. David Drake was once a renowned cardiovascular surgeon. But a devastating tragedy has left him scarred both inside and out, unable to use his hands to operate again. For the past five years, his Blue River cottage has been his sole escape—a safe haven where he can shut out the world, bury himself in his grief, and reunite with his son’s memory. Together they are summer and winter. Fire and ice. And yet a poignant connection forms between them. Jeseca awakens David and thaws his heart with a romance hot enough to melt snow. But before David and Jeseca can fully embrace each other, they must wade through darkness and confront the ghosts of their pasts … Equal parts steamy and heartfelt, A Kindled Winter brings the spirit of the holidays to life with a passionate story of second chances and healing love. Disclaimer: suitable for adults. "'Tis the season for romance and miracles and Rachel L. Demeter has written the perfect holiday romance that could melt the heart of an iceberg. Grab a hankie for this one as Rachel L. Demeter once again writes from her own soul pouring life and emotion into this gentle romantic read. Feel the pain Jeseca and David endure, it is raw and relentless, and then journey deeper into their hearts to see the weight of the world slowly lifted with the power of love. Rachel L. Demeter weaves a beautiful tapestry of flawed humans who desperately need a second chance at love and life, who need to learn to forgive themselves for a debt they do not owe. Enjoy the light-hearted times, the reflective times and times when pulling back is necessary to re-group." - Tome Tender "A poignant tale set against the backdrop of the Christmas season, which can be one of the most difficult times of the year for some people, but can also be the most uplifting and heartwarming. This is a unique romantic tale, filled with a well of powerful emotions that sets it apart from the usual holiday fare." - The Book Review "What an emotional story!!!! This book bursts with humanity and love." - Lina's Book Reviews