Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball - Donita K. Paul

Choosing Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball by Donita Paul as my first book to review for Waterbrook Multnomah seemed to be a no-brainer since I love everything Christmas. I loved the cover of the book and it drew me in. Unfortunately, I'm not rating this one very high.
In the story, Cora prides herself on shopping for Christmas early and avoiding the holiday shopping rush. She finds an unusual book shop and stops to purchase a book for a gift. She ends up on the receiving end of a matchmaking ploy as the owners of the shop (wizards) give her tickets to a Christmas ball. Co-worker Simon is shopping in the same store and also receives tickets to the ball. Simon loves his family, especially his sister, Sandy, and plans to give her a special treat by taking her to the ball. When driving to the store to get a ticket for Sandy, they can't find this enchanted street; only when walking can they seem to find this magical world. As the three are shopping for dresses for both Cora and Sandy, they meet some charming ladies who help them find the perfect outfit for the special night. The dresses, however, will turn into rags when worn by someone other than the intended customer.
I've not read many fantasy books, and I am very uncomfortable with Donita Paul's use of wizards and magic in this Christian novella. I do understand that it is meant as an allegory but I guess I just didn't get it. It had a lot happening in the story line for such a short book and I loved the characters, especially Sandy and her relationship with Simon. The book was an enjoyable read but just isn't one I would recommend to others. Maybe that is just because I'm new to the fantasy genre.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Press as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."