Barry Laverty, MD, is looking forward to his first Christmas in the cozy village of Ballybucklebo, at least until he learns that his sweetheart might not be coming home for the holidays. But he has little time to dwell on his own romantic disappointment. Christmas may be drawing near, but there is little peace to be found on earth, especially for a young doctor plying his trade in the emerald hills and glens of rural Ireland. Along with his senior partner, Barry has his hands full dealing with the usual coughs and colds as well as the occasional medical emergency.

Patrick Taylor, MD, was born and raised in Bangor County Down in Northern Ireland. Dr. Taylor worked as a specialist in Canada for thirty-seven years and now divides his time between Canada and Ireland. He is the author of An Irish Country Village.