Book excerpt: Spending a charming Christmas in the English countryside sounds perfect as long as he doesn’t show up… Ella Roberts is ecstatic to be heading to Bakewell to spend Christmas with her sister and brother-in-law, the new Earl and Countess Sherbourne, and represent her family at the holiday reception they're hosting at Langley Park. She’s also excited to visit the Peak District, inspiration for Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. However, she's determined to avoid the most arrogant and irritatingly handsome man, Baird MacLauren. One unforgettable kiss is one too many. Baird MacLauren was happy to serve as the best man for Alec Sherbourne's wedding in the San Juan Islands, but he didn't expect the sparks and chemistry with the bride’s stunning sister. The intense chemistry is too powerful for the rational Scot, and after a passionate kiss, he rejected Ella as the most logical action. He has no room in his life for emotion and plans to avoid Ella during her visit. But when an emergency keeps Alec in London days before Christmas, Baird steps in to help until Alec can arrive home to Langley Park. With Christmas upon them, Ella and Baird must work together to ensure Cara and the Sherbournes will have the perfect holiday. Can the magic of the season bring these two opposites together?