September 1, 2020
Riley Madigan took a job as an art teacher in the small town of Miracle Creek for a fresh start after a hurtful breakup. When Mark Rivers sees Riley's artwork, it reminds him of his mother's, so he asks her to recreate a life-size nativity set his mother had made that burned in a fire. Mark is no stranger to fire; he worked as a firefighter until one rescue left him with burns on his face and body. As Riley and Mark get to know each other, they realize that their connection could lead to healing and possibly love, even if it takes a Christmas wish. Despite some stilted dialogue and one-dimensional side characters, this is a feel-good, heartfelt read with just enough Christmas spirit and a touching grand finale.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)