Welcome to First Line Friday!
Today I’m featuring

The Santa Run by Beth Pugh.

As Christmas rounds the bend, Eliza Lee Elliott struggles with her grandfather’s death. Though her faith has carried her through the grief, working at the Appalachian Express has kept her sane, especially her new task of coordinating The Santa Run. Pine Valley’s oldest tradition not only serves the community, the run gives her purpose. Bennett Olsen is tired of city life. Something’s got to give, and when McCoy Railway purchases the Appalachian Express, it gives in a big way. Supervising the Kentucky acquisition is his chance to slow down and win back the attention of his boss–and father–with a job well done.

When an accident threatens the Santa Run, Eliza and Bennett are pushed together at every turn, making their growing attraction impossible to ignore. As time ticks down to the event, tradition isn’t the only thing in jeopardy. Hearts are on the line, with or without a train on the tracks.

From Goodreads

Author Information

Discover more information about Beth Pugh at: bethpughbooks.com.

First Line

[Graphic Text]: Lights from the Christmas tree in the far corner of the office flashed rhythmically, their reflection barely visible on the computer screen as Eliza Lee Elliot checked her newly cleaned-out inbox for the umpteenth time.

My Review

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

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The Santa Run is the second book in Beth Pugh’s Pine Valley Holiday series.

Eliza Lee is a firecracker determined to honor her grandfather my making sure the Santa Run goes off without a hitch. Not only is it a fond memory she has with her grandfather, it brings necessity items to those in her community who have so little. Coats, hats, and mittens for the children. Groceries for families to have a Christmas dinner. It’s a worthy undertaking!

Bennett, however, is there to win his father back. His father is a Scrooge of a man who hates Christmas and only cares that his newly acquired railroad business stays in the black. Bennett is torn between wanting to help Eliza Lee and the desire to be close to his father again.

With two opposite motivations, Bennett and Eliza Lee’s enemies-to-lovers relationship is like two trains headed for a collision course. Who will swerve first and what collateral damage will be left in their wake. Or … will Christmas provide the miracle needed to change hearts and offer everyone a happily ever after.

This is a delightful tale with the spirit of Kentucky on display. I loved the colloquial sayings, Eliza Lee’s spunk, and Bennett’s heart. It’s a delightful story that I definitely recommend reading this holiday season.

Retail Links

Amazon | BN.com | Indiebound
Goodreads | BookBub

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Pull out the book beside you and leave a comment with the first line.

First Line Friday is hosted by Reading is my Super Power.

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