The Christmas Academy. Frankly, it sounded absurd. But with a name like Noelle and her quirky family's reputation for leaving candy cane lights up year-round, who was she to complain? Between semesters, she could certainly use the distraction. It was the least she could do for a struggling little town that had lost its spirit since the mill closed.

A Santa gig. Really? Still, it was the best he could do for now. Looking up at the twinkling sign dotted in mistletoe, Kristopher reminded himself it was only temporary. It wasn't like he had any other place to be but had always found holiday festivities silly.

What happens when a cheery professor and a burly, bitter con are tasked with bringing the holiday spirit back to a struggling town?

It all begins with the mistletoe.