A relaxed Pelican Bay holiday romance from USA TODAY Bestselling author Megan Matthews.

Holston

Taking over the family farm couldn't have happened soon enough. The place is crumbling around us. There's no time to focus on anything but rehabbing Oceanview Orchards. We're not ready for visitors yet, but I can't turn away the money when Pearl asks for her great niece to become our first guest.

Ember recognizes the farm's potential and I delight in watching her love the place. Unfortunately, we're not the only ones who see the possibilities in the family farm, and one man will go to great lengths to make the place his own.

Ember

I suggested the holiday trip to Pelican Bay, but it's aunt Pearl who demanded I stay at Oceanview Orchards. The struggling cider mill captures my heart along with the dedicated owner and his Alaskan Malamute puppy.

Holston has big plans for the small farm in Maine, and I want to be along for the ride. He believes I'm only a guest, but I hold a secret to saving his farm. If only I can get him to listen.

Instead of guns and explosions, enjoy this short Pelican Bay Christmas tale of garland and a cute puppy for the holidays