Winter Wishes — Tara Grace Ericson

Keeping secrets could keep them apart. 

Todd Flynn has always been the lovable jock, known for being a simple yet reliable carpenter and handyman in the small town of Minden. Nearly a high school dropout and actively discouraged from pursing academic pursuits by his abusive father, Todd hides the truth from every one, including the friend he's harbored feelings for since high school. 

Christine Mathes has worked at her parents' cafe ever since returning home after only a year in college. When her parents retire and leave the cafe entirely in her hands, she quickly becomes overwhelmed with the new responsibility. A dark secret of her own threatens to derail her grand plans for the restaurant and she has to face her fear of the city for her business dreams to come true. 

Despite their long friendship and the romantic tensions that seem to rise when they are alone together at the holidays, will Chrissy and Todd let their secrets and their insecurities hold them back from happiness? The power of community, honesty, and forgiveness highlight this faith-centered happily ever after.