Cirrus@Austlit

'After almost three years apart from his mother, Anse is excited to welcome her and her partner to Canberra for Christmas. It’ll be a chance to reconnect and show them around his new home, but most importantly, they’ll get to meet his boyfriend, Luciano.

'But as soon as their plane touches the ground, things go awry.

'What was supposed to be a quiet family Christmas turns into a lavish affair when Anse’s mother reveals they plan to wed while down under.

'After a hard two years at the restaurant, Luciano gets an offer he can’t refuse on Christmas Eve. But can he really leave when there’s no guarantee he’ll be home in time to cook Christmas lunch?

'At thirty-six weeks pregnant, all Ellie wants for Christmas is to not give birth… on Christmas. She’s sure what she’s feeling is just Braxton Hicks contractions. Definitely.

'And with so much to do before the wedding, pressure mounts on Anse. Deep down, he knows everyone is thinking the same thing: why haven’t you asked Luciano to marry you yet?

'A quiet Christmas indeed.' (Publication summary)