Journey of the Magi

Widow Noel Martin never breaks promises, and she promised her kids they'd have Christmas at her childhood home in Connecticut. But driving across country takes money. Noel is broke when a snowstorm blows them into a tiny Minnesota cafe owned by a man who can change her mind. She accepts his offer of a job. Despite her attraction to him, she makes it clear she is only temporary help.Dan Longstreet isn't adopting any more strays, but he needs a waitress. Dan works so hard to make his cafe a success, he doesn't have time for love. Though Noel's slender blonde beauty stuns him and her two adorable children tug at his heart, he denies how they threaten to change his life.When tragedy strikes, their new-found love is the first victim. Noel can't stay and Dan can't leave. Will their journey be the gift that reunites them?ReviewJOURNEY OF THE MAGIWith a deft touch of her brush, word artist Barbara Edwards paints an endearing story that showcases the true meanings of Christmas--love, sacrifice and the wide-eyed hopes of children. This is a sweet romance of two lonely people who have an instant attraction to each other while their hearts are heavy with fears and long-denied dreams. Ms. Edwards gives us several twists and turns in the plot, but it is her attention to detail, her ingenious stroke of the brush that breathes life and love into this delightful story.--Vonnie Davis, award winning romance authorFrom the AuthorI had fun writing this holiday romance, a departure from my edgy paranormal romances. I revealed my soft heart and love of stray animals, small children and tall, dark and strong men.I took a number of personal experiences to write the plot. I breast-fed my children like Noel does her baby and drove a clunker of a car for years. Minnesota during November came from my son's wedding to a girl from that area. The snow was deep and the temperature deeper. The parking lot in the motel had a warning not to leave your vehicle if the bears were in the parking lot. The people were among the friendliest I've ever met.My house burned and we lost everything. A period in my life I'd rather forget. There is nothing like Christmas in Connecticut. We all gather to decorate wreaths to sell on the Christmas tree farm. My husband and I dress up like Santa and his wife to entertain the kids and hand out candy canes. On Christmas Eve we gather to exchange gift and share a family dinner. I cry each year for those who can't be there and with happiness. My children and their families are growing and changing with every season.