Review: Santa Maybe by Carla Luna
Carla Luna brings holiday magic to life in Santa Maybe, a heartwarming tale of fauxmance, festive cheer, and unexpected romance. Set against the charming backdrop of Victoria, Canada, Luna introduces us to The Duchess, a historic boutique hotel fighting to stay afloat. As assistant manager, Rosie Gonzalez faces a ticking clock: fill the hotel by Christmas, or she and her team will lose their jobs. The stakes are high, and the pressure from her family to find “the one” only adds to the holiday frenzy.
Enter Drew Richardson, Rosie’s long-time crush and personal trainer. When Drew agrees to play Santa for The Duchess’s holiday events, their professional lives collide with a fun twist—Drew proposes a fake-dating arrangement to avoid his own awkward situation with his ex’s wedding. What begins as a mutually beneficial scheme soon heats up, turning from a simple ruse into something delightfully complex as Rosie and Drew realize their chemistry might be more than make-believe.
Luna’s storytelling shines in the enchanting setting of The Duchess, a character in its own right, echoing nostalgia and warmth while showcasing the challenges of modern hospitality. Rosie’s resilience and dedication to her work, paired with Drew’s charm and genuine kindness, make their journey from friends to lovers an absolute joy to watch unfold. Santa Maybe is a story of second chances, holiday magic, and finding love where you least expect it—wrapped up in a deliciously festive package.
Perfect for a cozy winter read or a holiday gift, Santa Maybe is sure to delight fans of holiday romance. Carla Luna once again proves her talent for creating swoon-worthy characters and settings that linger in your heart long after the last page.
