The Santa Problem by Barbara Elsborg

Christmas story with a grumpy and lonely garden centre manager and the blue-haired savior that brings some much needed Christmas magic in The Santa Problem.

From the blurb:

When Kendall is let down by the Santa and photographer he’s booked for his garden centre, he frantically tries to find replacements. But no one is available to step in at the last minute and he’s running out of time and options.

Then Alfie arrives, with his electric-blue hair, piercings, megawatt smile, and three cute reindeer. And, he just happens to be a photographer. Finally, Kendall sees a glimmer of hope. So what if he hates Christmas, kids, beards and missing Santas? Kendall can play Santa himself, if he just learns how to smile.

As Kendall thaws and gets into the role, Alfie has renewed hope that he’ll manage what he came all the way here to do. It all depends on Kendall believing him, and that suddenly becomes a mountain Kendall won’t even try to climb. But Alfie won’t give up. It’s not over yet. This is Christmas and there’s magic in the air!

Sheena's Review:

'Tis the time for Christmas stories, and this is a fun twist on one. It's never too early for a Christmas story, especially one with as much magic and romance as this has. I'm a real sucker for a Grumpy/Sunshine story. Kendall is a grumpy, lonely garden centre manager whose Santa has just let him down, just as they're about to start the grotto. His savior is a blue-haired photographer named Alfie who appears just as he's needed, with reindeer in tow.

Neither Alfie nor Kendall are exactly what they seem to be though, and Barbara has worked her usual magic to bring their story to vivid life. Kendall's story isn't exactly happy up to this point, and I loved seeing him transition from lonely and sad to finding some joy and light in his life due to Alfie. Alfie too, I loved him and it was so much fun finding out his story as we went along. I loved his relationship with Kendall and loved seeing it unfold and Kendall gradually warming to him.

This was such a good twist on a Christmas story. I don't know what I expected but this was great, serious topics but always with a little hope and Christmas Magic around.

Rating: 4 Stars

The Santa Problem is available to buy as an ebook, paperback or to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.