New York City event planner Michael Cove is a man who thrives on challenge. He built a prosperous business from nothing. He won the heart and hand of a moody, patchouli-scented artist, the opposite of himself in almost every way. He charmed the man's shrewd, wealthy grandmother. Only one challenge remains to be conquered, and it's a trial far more terrifying than his wedding day: a visit from his mother.Neo-hippie artist and social activist Jude Kendrick awaits his Christmas Eve wedding to Michael with eager anticipation. Not even Michael's supercilious mother or her conniving politician husband can ruin his happiness. Only one secret plan threatens to darken a day that should be bright with joy: a hope for Michael's future and his own that will shape the rest of their lives.Unexpected demands from estranged family throw a spotlight on differences long ignored by the couple. But marriage changes things and now Michael must decide if he will embrace all Jude stands for or return to his solitary life of work hard and play harder, with obligations to no one but himself. Because marrying Jude means marrying into a world of privilege he'd never wanted and social responsibility he'd always spurned.