August 22, 2026 – My Sanctuary

Saving Christmas At The Highland Repair Shop By Kiley Dunbar

It’s the first of December and the Highland Repair Shop is facing a fresh challenge: a storm has damaged the town’s beloved Christmas lights. With the clock ticking before the official switch-on, the workshop must transform into a merry fixing factory to save Christmas in Cairn Dhu.

Meanwhile, Hamish Skelton has devoted his life to keeping the local ski centre alive – but with no snow and dwindling visitor numbers, his future is hanging by a thread. Then consultant Florrie Norheim arrives with a clear mission: to close the resort for good. Determined to prove herself, she isn’t looking for distractions, least of all a handsome young man who refuses to give up on his home. But are some places – and people – worth saving?

As Hamish and Florrie grow closer, the town rallies together and a long-lost love story is uncovered, will the spirit of Christmas work its magic on them all? ✨

Taken…
to love, honor—and obey!

Vincenzo. Every cosa nostra family will bow to me. The Salvatores are no exception. I’ll force their loyalty by kidnapping their heir, Caterina, from her arranged nuptials. The woman I once saved during a hit on her family will be my bride by nightfall. Though, submissive is one thing Caterina isn’t. I find I like that…

Caterina. I should be immune to the Sicilian’s dark allure; he’s a reminder of all I’ve lost, including my freedom. Yet the respect he gives me is intoxicating. And soon I’m willingly surrendering myself to our wedding night…

About The Author

My Review

This book is about power, choice, and confronting the past. Vincenzo’s decision to kidnap and force a marriage with Caterina feels deliberately old-world and dramatic, yet the story quickly deepens into an emotionally charged exploration of two people bound by a tragic shared history. Twenty years after the event that tied their families together, long-buried truths finally demand to be revealed.

Jackie Ashenden’s strength lies in her characters’ emotional honesty. Vincenzo and Caterina are complex, introspective, and shaped by pain, guilt, and longing. The tension comes not only from the forced marriage premise, but from Vincenzo’s realization that real love cannot exist without choice. His struggle to loosen control and risk losing Caterina adds emotional depth, while Caterina’s fierce determination to protect her independence gives the romance a compelling push and pull.

Although the story unfolds over only a few days making the pacing feel rushed at times, the emotional intensity keeps the pages turning. With strong chemistry, dramatic stakes, and themes of freedom, forgiveness, and trust, this passionate mafia romance delivers a gripping and satisfying read.

My Rating