The Sound of Sleigh Bells Beth Hertzler is unable to let go of a past tragedy, but when she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds. Determined that her niece meet the gifted artist, her aunt tracks him down, but it’s not that simple – will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love?  The Christmas Singing Mattie thought her childhood sweetheart adored her until he abruptly ended their engagement on Christmas Eve. Brokenhearted, Mattie moves away and pursues her longtime dream of becoming a cake decorator, and even finds a new beau. But when Mattie is forced to return home three years later, will learning the truth behind Gideon’s rejection restore her Christmas joy – or open the door to even deeper heartbreak?    The Dawn of Christmas Sadie enjoys her freedom away from home and her mission trips to Peru, but after four years, her Old Order Amish family insists it’s time to come home and settle down. Levi, a bachelor who distrusts women after a family heartbreak, also has no desire for romance. To keep their families from meddling in their lives, Sadie and Levi devise a plan—but soon discover that the walls around their hearts are breaking down. Can they let go of their prejudices, learn to trust each other, and embrace a future together?

    Two Men.One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.But who will win her heart?Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues. But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her, she encounters a tug-of-war of the heart she isn’t expecting. Sam O’Rourke is the childhood hero she’s pined for, the brother of her best friend and a member of the large, boisterous family to which she longs to be a part. So when his best friend Patrick O’Connor joins in pursuit of her affections, the choice seems all too clear. Sam is from a family of faith and Patrick is not, two rogues whose wild ways clash head-on with Marcy’s—both in her faith and in her heart. While overseeing the Christmas play fundraiser for the St. Mary’s parish soup kitchen—A Light in the Window—Marcy not only wrestles with her attraction to both men, but with her concern for their spiritual welfare. The play is based on the Irish custom of placing a candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome the Holy Family, and for Marcy, its message becomes deeply personal. Her grandmother Mima cautions her to guard her heart for the type of man who will respond to the "light in the window," meaning the message of Christ in her heart. But when disaster strikes during the play, Marcy is destined to discover the truth of the play’s message first-hand when it becomes clear that although two men have professed their undying love, only one has truly responded to “the light in the window.”

    Who could this special person be?See if you can guess.Ages 2 and upThe Deep and Snowy Wood is a Christmas/Winter picture book. Told in rhyme it tells the story of 3 animals making their way through the wood. The other animals of the wood are curious and follow the three to see what they know.At the end the happy secret is revealed.

    The truest judge granted Adam a choice. But it was love that gave Immanuel, "God with us."The Author would enter his own story. The Word would become flesh. He, too, would be born. He, too, would be human. He, too, would have feet and hands, tears and flesh.Witness the birth of Christ as you've never seen it before. Through twenty-five inspirational selections from the works of bestselling author Max Lucado, join Mary and Joseph inside a stable, beside a shepherd, at the feet of the King. Immanuel in the manger.

    Until the December day when Rob Blake walks into her studio and commissions a necklace that will tell his enigmatic wife Cat’s life in charms. As Laura interviews Cat’s family, friends and former lovers, she steps out of her world and into theirs – a charmed world where weekends are spent in Verbier and the air is lavender-scented, where friends are wild, extravagant and jealous, and a big love has to compete with grand passions. Hearts are opened, secrets revealed and as the necklace begins to fill up with trinkets, Cat’s intoxicating life envelops Laura’s own. By the time she has to identify the final charm, Laura’s metamorphosis is almost complete. But the last story left to tell has the power to change all of their lives forever, and Laura is forced to choose between who she really is and who it is she wants to be.

     TRUE BELIEVER: A skeptical science journalist travels to a small town to investigate ghostly apparitions. When he hopelessly falls in love with a local woman, he must take a giant leap of faith. AT FIRST SIGHT: In this sequel to True Believer, an engaged young couple face their greatest fears-and discover that the emotion that can break your heart is sometimes the very one that heals it. A BEND IN THE ROAD: A widowed deputy sheriff becomes drawn to a young divorcée. But they are bound by a shocking secret that will force them to reexamine everything they believe in-including their love.

    Monson recounts a Christmas memory from his childhood. As a boy, he yearned for an electric train. To his delight, on Christmas morning he got exactly that—a train that operated through the miracle of electricity. Then he noticed a second train that his mother had purchased for the boy down the street whose family was struggling. Although it was only a wind-up train, it had a beautiful oil tanker car, which little Tommy wanted for his own. Soon after, Tommy's mother invited him to accompany her to the neighbor's home to deliver the gift. Young Mark was thrilled with his new train and, of course, didn't notice the missing train car. However, a remorseful Tommy did. What happened next will bring the spirit of Christmas into every heart and home. Illustrated by renowned artist Dan Burr, The Christmas Train is sure to be a classic Christmas story and a beautiful addition to every Christmas library.

    Spend the holidays with your favorite blue cat! In this rockin' spin on the traditional tale The Night Before Christmas, Pete the Cat proves that giving your all in the spirit of Christmas is the totally groovy thing to do.

    All around crime-scene cleaner Gabby St. Claire’s hometown, anything pointing to Jesus as the “reason for the season” is being sabotaged. The crimes become more twisted as dismembered body parts are found at the vandalisms. Who would go to such great lengths to dampen the joy and hope of Christ’s birthday? Someone’s determined to destroy Christmas . . . but Gabby St. Claire is just as determined to find the Grinch and let peace on earth and goodwill to men prevail.

    He determines to tell his daughter a Christmas story—one that conveys the true meaning of the holiday. And he knows just the story.The year is 1968 and Jesse's father is serving a tour in Vietnam. Jesse and his mother are struggling to make ends meet. He gives little thought to the approaching holidays. That changes however, when he is befriended by Ardella Calder, an elderly customer on his paper route. During a visit, the woman shows Jesse her Christmas Tin. Inside it are gifts from her most memorable Christmases. As she tells Jesse the heartwarming stories behind the gifts, he slowly comes around. But just when things are looking up, the Macleans receive a telegram with dire news about Jesse's father.It is during this time that Ardella tells Jesse a final story, a poignant, war time holiday story. A story to guide Jesse through his grief and show him that sometimes faith and hope can bring light to even the darkest of places.

    Bree Matthews is preparing for Christmas guests, but her heart is reeling from the recent and tender loss of her unborn child. Her sister-in-law, Lauri, suddenly turns up on the doorstep of the lighthouse home Bree shares with her husband, Kade, in Rock Harbor. Secretive and withdrawn, Lauri seems curiously intent on discovering what happened to a parachuter who disappeared in the North Woods along Lake Superior's icy shore.As Bree and Samson, her search-and-rescue dog, plunge into the search, Bree wonders if Lauri may know more than she’s admitted about the parachuter. And then the clues lead them to the trail of a young woman whose family fears the worst about her disappearance.Will the search on this snowy, silent night lead Bree and Samson to more than clues about the missing girl? And will Bree’s prayer for a baby ever be answered?

    She loves the presents, the tree, the turkey, the tinsel, everything. Already the festive spirit is upon her, which is just as well as this Christmas things are starting to get out of hand.Her son Tom is out of work and bringing home a slew of unsuitable partners; pregnant daughter Chloe and her little boy have moved back in; Juliet's father, Frank, is getting over a heartbreak of his own and Rita, her eccentric mother, is behaving more erratically each day. And has the chaos got too much for Juliet's husband Rick?With the big day fast approaching, Juliet hopes that she can stop everything spiralling out of control, because the only thing she wants is her family all around her and her home to be filled

    She’s practical, professional and loyal. But her business is failing and she’s also struggling to plan her wedding. She’s tired and dispirited. Although she and her wealthy fiancé argue frequently, they’re meeting in a picturesque Pennsylvania town to be married on Christmas Day.Alice leaves New York and is soon lost in a violent snowstorm. Night descends. She nearly hits a man who darts out in front of her. He’s frightening and mysterious. He directs her to a nearby B&B. In a bookshelf in her room, she discovers an old diary wedged behind a row of books.The diary was written by a man 15 years ago. She reads it and is immediately overcome by its honest and tender style. Intrigued, she sets off on an “innocent” journey to try to find the man, to learn what happened to him.During her journey, Alice must confront her past, present and future and make a decision that will change her life forever.Show More Show Less

    So when her adored elderly aunt dies, the last thing she is expecting is to be left a theme park in her will. A theme park with a Christmas theme … And that's not the only catch. Her aunt's will stipulates that Eve must run the park with a mysterious partner, the exotically named Jacques Glace. Who is this Jacques, and why did Aunt Evelyn name him in her will? But Eve isn't going to back down from a challenge. She's determined to make a success of Winterworld, no matter what. Can she overcome her dislike of Christmas, and can Jacques melt her frozen heart at last?Praise for Milly Johnson: 'Every time you discover a new Milly book, it’s like finding a pot of gold'  heat 'A glorious, heartfelt novel' Rowan Coleman ‘Absolutely loved it. Milly's writing is like getting a big hug with just the right amount of bite underneath. I was rooting for Bonnie from the start' Jane Fallon ‘Bursting with warmth and joie de vivre’ Jill Mansell ‘Warm, optimistic and romantic’ Katie Fforde

    Set in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Naomi's Gift reintroduces twenty-four-year-old Naomi King, who has given up her dreams of finding true love. But when a young widower stirs surprising feelings in her, Naomi cautiously opens her heart to him and receives an unexpected response that once again turns her world upside-down. Author Amy Clipston artfully paints a panorama of simple lives full of complex relationships, and she carefully explores cultural differences and human similarities, with inspirational results.

    But what can this Christmas classic teach us about our everyday lives?52 Little Lessons from It's a Wonderful Life will change the way you think about this holiday staple, from the lightheartedness of George and Mary's floor-parting dance to the poignancy of a community that rallies to save a desperate man, Bob Welch's 52 Little Lessons from It's a Wonderful Life will inspire you to live for the things that matter most.Welch invites us to revisit the defining lessons in Frank Capra's 1946 classic and discover new dimensions of the film you've seen time and again, including:What can we all learn from Mary's quiet contentedness?Can George's selflessness make you rethink your own priorities?What impact do we have on the people around us?Join Welch for a close-up of the characters and themes that shape this timeless story of resilience and redemption. You'll be reminded that life's most important work is often the work we never planned to do, that God can use the most unlikely among us to get the job done, and that grace is the greatest gift we can possibly give.Discover why It's a Wonderful Life is more than just a holiday tradition--it's an inspiration for us to lead better lives, to become people of honor and integrity, and to recognize what really matters.

    God Rest Ye Merry is meant to rekindle the Christian's understanding of Advent on every front, from politics to shopping to uproarious celebration.Pastor Douglas Wilson critiques false reasons for the season (and false objections to it), teaches the importance of Israel in Christmastime history, explains why nativity sets should have Herod's soldiers (and how Santa Claus once punched a man in the face at a church council), offers the Enlightenment Assumptions Detector test as a guide to understanding Christmas symbolism, and much more. The last section contains a read-aloud meditation and prayer for each day of Advent, making God Rest Ye Merry an excellent tool for cultivating a deep family love of Christmas.

    When she returns to the community just days before Christmas, her father turns her away. After running her car off the road in a blizzard, Grace ends up at the mercy of Ethan Bontrager, the man whose proposal she'd refused before leaving the community. Will the two of them be able to put the past behind them while trapped together in a blizzard? THE CHRISTMAS PRAYER: The day before school lets out for the holiday season, students are asked to submit a confidential and unselfish prayer to their teacher as an end-of-the-year assignment. When two of the students realize they share a common prayer, they join forces to make certain those prayers are answered. Will their shenanigans bring two broken families together, or will their efforts be in vain?

    That's the last straw...he won't be the Yule Tomte anymore!Binny and Barty, the rabbit children, live with their family in the forest. They've never heard of Christmas, or the Yule Tomte, until the wind brings them some strange gifts...All the animals in the forest prepare for the arrival of Christmas. They make presents, bake sweet treats and even write a song. But will the Yule Tomte ever bring Christmas to the big forest?This charming and funny Christmas story of a grumpy tomte and the hopeful little rabbits is told over twenty-five chapters--one for each day of Advent -- with delightful festive illustrations. Perfect for families to share together.(Ages 5-8)

    As an aging widow, the tradition means more to her now than it ever has.Her newest neighbor, nine-year-old Charlee Alexander, loves Christmas too. But her family has fallen on hard times and things get worse when Charlee becomes critically ill.Then, on December 12th, Charlee makes a wonderful Discovery. A mysterious note is delivered that promises twelve days of gifts and stories that will reveal the truth behind the beloved Christmas song "The 12 Days of Christmas." As the days go by, the gifts hint to a possible lost lyric. WAs there once a thirteeth day of Christmas? And if so, could it's magic change - or save - a life?Filled with laughter, tenderness, and hope, The 13th Day of Christmas invites us to see how an old Christmas favorite can become a true Christmas miracle.

    But she was young once with her own struggles. In 1963 Deborah Byler is twenty-one and has turned down seven marriage proposals from hopeful suitors in Millersburg, Ohio. At her parent’s request, she goes to live with relatives in the new Amish settlement in Smicksburg, Pennsylvania, praying she’ll find a match.Jeb Weaver lives in a strict Swartzentruber Amish settlement, and he can no longer abide under the rules of the Ordnung. His older brother left the family farm and settled in Smicksburg, and convinces Jeb to do the same. When Jeb meets Deborah, he finds her too liberal and outspoken. Deborah thinks Jeb’s judgmental and a complete stick in the mud. Their constant clashing makes sparks fly. Will an African American man, who hitchhikes around the country to attend Martin Luther King Jr. marches, help Jeb and Deborah see their own prejudices?

    She certainly doesn't have a husband on her Christmas wish list. But when a wandering carpenter finds lodging at her boarding house, she admits that she might remarry if she found the right man--the kind of man who would bring her roses for Christmas. It would take a miracle to get roses during a harsh Wyoming winter. But Christmas, after all, is the time for miracles . . .Amanda Cabot invites readers to cozy up with a romantic, heartwarming tale of the greatest gift of all--love.

    The curmudgeonly Charles Drooms is perfectly content with his life as the owner of a successful accounting firm. However, when the beautiful widow, Lillian Hapsey, and her two young sons move down the hall from him, his narrow world is shaken. Three forces—Lillian, the Christmas season, and a mysterious little boy—converge to stir up powerful memories, pushing Drooms to make some life-altering decisions.

    Fans will be delighted by this peek at an Amish Christmas, complete with the romantic wish of Susanna Byler to spend the holidays with the man of her dreams. But who is the man of her dreams? Is it the competent but plain Amishman she married for convenience...or is it her first love-an Englisha man with whom she has recently had an unexpected encounter-and who wants her back in his life? A perfect holiday delight for lovers of Amish fiction...and those who love a heartwarming and tender Christmas tale.

    Calling in a long overdue loan, Luke finds himself reluctantly accepting a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt.Philamena Booth is both mortified and relieved when her father sends her off with the banker as payment of his debt. Held captive on the farm by her father since the death of her mother more than a decade earlier, Philamena is grateful to leave. If only it had been someone other than the handsome and charismatic Luke Granger riding in to rescue her. Ready to uphold her end of the bargain as Luke’s cook and housekeeper, Philamena is prepared for the hard work ahead. What she isn’t prepared for is being forced to marry Luke as part of this crazy Christmas bargain.

    For several months, he is left pondering his losses and how it fits into God's plan. How could God desert him when he has been such a pious follower of His Word? The community tries to help him through his trials but Jonas is resistant. It takes an amazing Christmas miracle to open his eyes to the every day nature of God's gifts to the world. Can his faith be saved in time?

    When Anna Stolis takes over for her aunt, the local midwife, Christmas night heats up with multiple deliveries, three strangers' quilts, and unexpected help from the handsome and brooding Asa Lapp.

    Her sister-in-law Ella is about to have a baby, making Katie an aunt for the second time … and she's only six and a half! Plus, her favorite librarian, Miss Donovan, seems sad. She won't even fix up the rundown nativity in front of the library in time for Christmas. Then, an old woman is attacked outside the library, and, one by one, the nativity figures start to disappear!Luckily, there's a new deputy in town, Connor Fields. He takes a real liking to Miss Donovan … and he promises to find the missing nativity pieces for Katie.Now, all Katie has to do is pray that Ella's delivery goes well and that some kind of nativity is in place for Christmas Eve. Oh, and that Miss D. falls in love with Connor. Katie knows from watching her three brothers that it makes people real happy. And that would be a Christmas miracle indeed!

    Then, he meets his best friend's sister, Julia Sinclair, and Jake believes he's found the woman of his dreams. But she's promised to another. When Julia makes an unexpected confession on Christmas Day, Jake shares his secret with her, and it looks as though happily-ever-after will make a holiday appearance. But what will she think when she discovers his vow?Somehow, everyone in the tiny town of Starlight suddenly learns Jake’s secret, and he's instantly transformed from town hero to laughingstock. Did Julia reveal his secret? Can Jake forget the humiliation and find his way under the mistletoe to share a forever kiss with Julia?

    After losing her job as a teacher, she finds herself broke, unemployed, and tricked into accepting a date from a department store Santa Claus. When new opportunities and new love interests present themselves, will Hailey choose a career and a man she's always admired, or will she wait for the identity of her Secret Santa to be revealed?

    But underneath the success runs a poisonous undercurrent of jealousy; Joseph is his father’s favorite and the focus of his brothers’ envy and hatred. When the father seems ready to anoint Joseph as his heir, the brothers make their move, forcing Joseph from the company and his Denver home, severing his ties to his parents and ending his relationship with his soon-to-be fianceé. Alone and lonely, Joseph must start a new life. Joseph joins a Chicago advertising agency where his creativity helps him advance high up in the company. He also finds hope for a lasting love with April, a kind woman with a secret. However, all secrets hold consequences, and when Joseph learns the truth about April’s past, his world is again turned upside down. Finally, Joseph must confront his own difficult past in order to make his dreams for the future come true.

    And there's one very important question on everyone's lips...have you been good this year?For twins Sam and Charlie this is a big worry because Charlie is really quite bad. And sometimes, just sometimes, Santa has to get tough...

    Still, that’s exactly what she found under the tree two years ago. What was even more surprising was that she promised she'd wait two Christmases for his return—tonight—and she always keeps her promises. But a sudden snowstorm has other ideas, including a romantic turn Morgan never imagined… Praise for Fern Michaels and her novels “Tirelessly inventive and entertaining.”—Booklist on Up Close and Personal“Fast-moving…entertaining…a roller-coaster ride of serendipitous fun.”—Publishers Weekly on Mr. and Miss Anonymous34,100 Words.

    She's not looking for a handout, but when Christian rescues her in the checkout line; her niece thinks Christian is an angel. Joy thinks he’s just another man who will eventually leave, disappointing her and the children.Although Christian is a servant of the Lord, he is a flesh and blood man and all he wants for Christmas is Joy Knight. Can time spent with Christian turn Joy’s attention from her financial woes to the real meaning of Christmas—and true love?A Christian Christmas is a holiday novella to be enjoyed any time of the year.

    Itsy Bitsy Christmas is a true nativity story reimagined in a fictional narrative through the eyes of two mice. When Itsy and Bitsy, two charming little mice, hear that a King is coming to Bethlehem, they set off with great enthusiasm to find Him. Along the way, others discourage them saying they are too little and unimportant for any king. Just when Itsy and Bitsy begin to believe they really aren't big enough for the new King, they learn that Christ the King has indeed come for everyone.With this Advent picture book, 4 to 7-year-olds willunderstand God's great loveknow that He sent His Son for all of us, little or big, young or oldlearn that faith is believing before seeingsee that Jesus is found in the most unlikely places Itsy Bitsy Christmas featuresa beautiful jacketed hardcovercolorful illustrations that children will adoreThis encouraging book is a great faith-building Advent gift or Christmas morning surprise. Reading Max Lucado’s Itsy Bitsy Christmas will become a treasured memory your family shares every Advent season.

    A Christmas rhyming story about a lost toymaker called 'Belstarr' who holds the key to Christmas in her heart. Will she find 'belief' before Drake Hausen takes over Christmas forever? A magical sleigh ride for all Christmas believers.

    Retells the tale of King Wenceslas who, upon seeing a peasant trudging through the snow on Christmas Eve, enlists the aid of a pageboy who has not yet experienced the blessings of Christmas to bring food, wine, and heat to the needy.

    But this Christmas nothing is the same. After the recent loss of both her husband and her loyal canine companion, Heddi wonders if she should celebrate Christmas at all. But all of that changes when the true gift of healing comes to her in a most mysterious way. This is a short story perfect for a quick holiday read!

    THREE COUPLES. ONE HOLIDAY.Pretty Near Perfectby Jolene PerryThe last thing Norah needs is to be attracted to anyone – especially in her deceased fiancé's parents' home. Collin’s starting a new career, and has no business getting involved – especially while staying with his roommate’s family, who very kindly offered to take him in for the holidays. Unfortunately, you just don’t always pick the most convenient time and place to fall for someone.Six Days of Christmasby Kaylee BaldwinWhen Natalie goes home with her best friend for Christmas, she expects plenty of quiet time to work on a winning ad so she can turn her dream internship into her dream job. Instead, she gets time-consuming Christmas festivities, a house full of children, and Jimmy, her best friend’s brother - someone who makes her question everything she’s always thought she wanted.Twist of Fateby Rachael AndersonWhen a postcard meant for Kenzie winds up in Ty's mailbox, Ty's faced with a decision. Should he tell her that her fiancé is breaking up with her and let it ruin her favorite holiday, or should he do what he’s wanted to do since he met her - make a move and hope that he can win her over before she discovers there won’t be a wedding after all.

      After her husband, Shep, loses his latest job, Jennie Davis is grateful to be in a car en route to beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Shep has inherited a house from a distant cousin, along with the cousin’s long-established bicycle shop. The move gives Jennie, Shep, and their two children a welcome chance for a fresh start.   While Shep dives into his new venture at the bike shop, Jennie carefully restores their broken-down house. She loves being a stay-at-home mom but yearns to find some fulfillment outside of her family—particularly as they struggle financially. On morning walks, she forges a friendship with her Amish neighbor, Mattie Fisher, who opens up about her modest way of life. Mattie’s unswerving good character in the face of adversity encourages Jennie to seek practical solutions to her own difficulties. A passing remark by Jennie’s son transforms desperation about their finances into inspiration, leading her to embark upon a candy-making enterprise.   Soon, Jennie’s newfound purpose collides with Shep’s growing stress at work and long-simmering tensions between husband and wife rise to the surface. As the holiday season approaches, their family is challenged as never before—until an unexpected visitor arrives to give Jennie the greatest gift of all.  Praise for Cynthia Keller’s heartwarming Amish novels  An Amish Christmas   “This little book is a holiday charmer young and old will find appealing.”—Fredericksburg Free Lance–Star   “[A] sweet, poignant story.”—USA Today A Plain & Fancy Christmas  “[This novel] does what a good holiday tale should; it invites readers to turn off the cellphone and television and wrap themselves up in a warm, compelling story.”—Lincoln Journal Star   “A wonderful read for the Christmas season.”—FaithfulNews

    At the suggestion of his ill sister, Jacob takes a job as a Secret Santa at the mall, hoping to restore his Christmas spirit. Even that doesn't seem to work, until a special little boy ambles up to make a very special wish...Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex-husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter's existence and doesn't provide for the son he does. This Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last, until her son Ben's kind actions lead a stranger to them.Ah, but it's Christmas time and the magic has begun.When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, their feelings grow stronger and stronger.With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life. Now, if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past.Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true—for everyone after all.

     Darcy Tucker hates Christmas. As a department store supervisor, she deals with the dark side of the holiday season. Santa isn’t real, no, she doesn’t have any more Betty Fofetti dolls in stock, and no freaking way can she extend that sale.  All she wants is to get to the day after Christmas. Fa-la-la-not. She can’t even escape it at home. Her neighbor, tall, muscled tattoo artist Ben Hartley, loves the holiday, enough to—shudder—decorate her front lawn. Ben doesn’t seem like he should be jolly, but if the big belt fits… He’s also the only one she can turn to when she runs into trouble at the store. Trapped together working on an important project, he’s determined to show her all she’s missed out on when it comes to the season of giving. And receiving. So much receiving. Now she’s looking at her own six-foot-plus tattooed Christmas miracle, and she’s ready to unwrap him under the tree… Author’s note: Holiday Sparks was previously published by Taryn Elliott and it has been lightly re-edited.

    

    Shtinky is a tiger-striped trash-can forager, frequent purrer, and lover of shpagetti, potpie, and shpagetti.As Christmas approaches, Shtinky Puddin grows ever more homesick and decides to depart the comfort and safety of Earl and Mooch&'s protection in hopes of finding home. With uncommunicative snowmen and zero luck, Shtinky Puddin gets lost in a blizzard, only to be found by Earl and Mooch, who then get lost themselves. Just in the Nick of time, a jolly rotund, red suit-wearing, white-bearded human approaches and delivers the traveling trio straight to their people's doorstep, only to learn that Shtinky Puddin's peoples have come to claim their lost tiger-striped kitty named Jules.With caviar rewards, Christmas naps, and New Year's resolutions to do less, this emotive Mutts gift book reminds us that there is indeed a reason for the season with themes of friendship, thankfulness, family, home, and hearth.

    Each story provides an inviting glimpse of possible reactions, perceptions, and actions of the characters, and at the end of the chapter, Stormie provides a prayer for a modern-day audience that powerfully connects readers to the heart of a loving and compassionate Savior.The result is a wondrous retelling of the miraculous story that remains as tender and powerful as it was when the angel choir first sang it to an audience of humble shepherds. "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"

    Willowbury is a quiet New England town, especially festive and picturesque during the Christmas season. Jennifer Taylor owns and operates a shop called Cards N’ Stuff. The death of her fiancé, on Christmas Eve the year before, has left her bitter and angry. A few days before Christmas, a mysterious woman named Mrs. Wintergreen stops by Jennifer’s shop and offers Jennifer the gift of an adventure. At first, Jennifer refuses. After a violent snow storm destroys her shop, Jennifer finds Mrs. Wintergreen and, out of desperation, agrees to the adventure. In New York City on Christmas Eve, Jennifer confronts her past, present and future. She falls in love and her life changes forever.

    He found God. And he has just one wish for the first Christmas of his new life: reconciliation with his teenage son, Eli. But after eight years of hardly hearing from Blake, Eli wants nothing to do with his father. So when his mother forces Eli to stay with Blake during the Christmas holidays, Eli sneaks out of the house.From the New Hampshire seacoast to the dangerous streets of Boston, Blake searches for his son, desperate to protect Eli from sins Blake knows all too well. But even if he finds his son, will he ever be able to convince Eli of his love?

    But now she's a widow and Daniel has reappeared, asking for forgiveness. Can she go back to her normal life with her long-lost love as her neighbor?

    But once in a while he would create a special something else on the side, and this adorable little package collects two of his best extras from the 1960s: two Christmas-themed stories written and drawn for national magazines. Created in 1963 (two years before the Charlie Brown Christmas TV special) as a supplement for Good Housekeeping magazine, Charlie Brown s Christmas Stocking comprises 15 original captioned vignettes featuring the entire Peanuts cast of the time Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Frieda, Violet, Shermy, and Sally each with a joke or reflection about the season. The Christmas Story is an original tale created for Woman s Day in 1968, this one focusing just on Snoopy and the Van Pelt siblings, with Lucy and Linus each explaining the meaning of the holiday to Snoopy. I m going to have to be careful, Snoopy reflects at the end of the story, resting on his doghouse next to his bone-decorated tree; all this theology could ruin my Christmas. The book also includes notes on the provenance of the stories and a pocket-sized biography of Schulz. A perfect gift item for the season!

    Jilted by her fiancé, Karla packs away her wedding quilts and her plans for marriage. Widow Jane travels to marry a prosperous man she barely knows in order to give her daughter a better life—then is stranded in a winter storm. Ada, a wealthy ingénue, inadvertently causes grave injury to a poor man she once considered quite a catch. Each must search her heart, change her plans. . .and patch together a tender, unexpected life filled with love.

    When God brings love in the form of someone familiar, will everything be merry and bright? Or will she stick with her ideal image?

    Will Ruby’s overbearing cousin, Priscilla, get in the way?SNOW ANGELS:Priscilla Miller has no intention of letting anyone get close to her after losing her father and brother in a buggy accident. Will Tobias Fisher and his quest for making snow angels be able to turn her attention from the mischief she’s stirring up in the community?THE GINGERBREAD HAUS:Eden Fisher has always dreamed of living in a house she’d always called the “Gingerbread Haus”. But when it is condemned by the city, will her dreams fall apart if the haus is demolished?Gabriel Miller had been secretly in love with Eden since grade school. Will he be able to save her dreams from falling to peaces along with the gingerbread haus?

    While her parents thrived in the London political social scene, Jocelyn did not share their enjoyment. Did she want to continue as her parents did for all her life?Jocelyn saw the Christmas holiday invitation to Bayneville Castle, the country estate of the 8th Marquess of Tarkington, as a perfect way to clear her head and consider her future. The house party was to celebrate her friend, Lady Mary Bayne's betrothal.When Lady Mary contracted a wicked cold and became bedridden, in the hopes of quick recovery before the rest of the guests arrived, Jocelyn found herself thrown more into the Marquess's company.The Marquess had been as active in London politics until the death of his wife. Since then, he'd spent his time on his estate with his young daughter. Jocelyn was amazed at how everyone she met in the household revered the Marquess. He was not above playing hide-and-seek with his daughter, nor taking the sleigh out to gather evergreen boughs and mistletoe when the servants were too busy preparing for his sister's party.But what amazed her was the woodturning lessons she found him taking from the estate carpenter. He was making a rocking horse, not watching its creation.The handmade toy was Lord Tarkington's gift for his young daughter. His labor of love touched Jocelyn, and she knew she had found her heart's desire...

    Will her wish come true? Then, Peppa and George decide to build a great, big snowman. This charming book includes two stories and a sheet of stickers!

    While working at the local diner, Quinn is befriended by Jason Graves. She has no idea Jason's the youth director of Landers Hollow Community Church until he asks her to lend a hand with the children's Christmas pageant. Jason is dealing with issues of his own--a painful divorce following a doctor's confirmation that he'll never be able to father a child. Jason longs for a family of his own, but, rejected and disheartened, fears it may never come to pass. Jason and Quinn are both searching for a Christmas miracle. What they find is sweeter than an angel's song.

    The Riley siblings don't stand a chance.MISTLETOE MISCHIEF: Christmas in July at the zoo is the last place single parents Eric Riley and Marissa Wilder expect to find love. Thanks to some mistletoe mischief in the form of their two young daughters and Santa, they discover mistletoe rules were not made to be broken.MISTLETOE MAGIC: Major Mark Riley plays Court Jester to Janelle Walsh's Snow Queen at the Christmas Parade and is instantly captivated by the cute redhead whose grandpa just happens to be Santa. When Mark learns she's the tenant he evicted from his newly purchased property, it's going to take a little bit of Santa's mistletoe magic to save their romance.MISTLETOE MATCH-UP: When Lisa Riley comes home for her brother Mark's Christmas Eve wedding, her high school rivalry with his wife Janelle's cousin, Derek Walsh, picks up right where it left off, only this time Derek has the upper hand. Santa bides his time as they battle it out because he's waited a whole year for this mistletoe match-up.Exclusive holiday bonus story, MISTLETOE RULES: When Benedict Riley first meets Susan Whitcomb at a college holiday dance, she’s engaged to be married to another man. In this story where mistletoe rules, you’ll learn how the Riley Family Mistletoe Rules all began one fateful Christmas, not too long ago…

    A perfect companion for a family to use with any nativity scene.

    Medallion Honoree * From the Midwest Book Review: "The Pajama Elves" is a delightful, creatively presented holiday tale that shares a family tradition of giving children magic pajamas secretly tailored by Santa's sewing elves, so they can sleep snug in their beds on Christmas Eve. Hayden Edwards is a special pseudonym for author/illustrator Julie Szabo, combining the names of her two sons and husband. Told in verse narrative and creatively illustrated with combination photos/prints in color, "The Pajama Elves" is all about keeping the magic of Christmas alive for young children. The author describes it as follows: "'The Pajama Elves' allows people to adopt and personalize the tradition in many ways, and it can be shared with family members who live far apart from one another." Sensitively done, "The Pajama Elves" is an ideal contemporary response to unique challenges faced by parents of young children today.

    Instead, she's the boring middle in a family packed with sparkly siblings, including three sisters who have all starred as Mary in Totsville, Maine's annual big-deal Christmas Pageant. All Kat's done is wet her pants on a rollercoaster and earn herself the horrible nickname, "Kat McPee." When she doesn't get the part of Mary, Kat's convinced that Christmas will be just another Kat McPee failure. But then Kat's beloved Gram lets it slip that she went to school with Mrs. Claus. The Mrs. Claus. Before Kat knows it, a magical snowglobe whisks her away to the North Pole, where she makes friends, checks naughty and nice lists, and takes classes in cookie baking, reindeer training, and toy designing. It's a Christmas miracle... But something is wrong. The North Pole is being threatened, and only Kat McGee can help. Kat McGee and The School of Christmas Spirit is about a modern girl in a magical adventure. Kat is about to learn who you can be if you believe in Christmas... and yourself.

    Her last remaining sibling has just passed away. When she dreams of her brother, she never imagines that she will be visited by the "ghost" of the past, present, and future. But the visions change her life and make for a wonderful Christmas gift for all. This is the first of the Amish Christian Classic Series by Sarah Price, books based upon the wonderful classics by authors of the past but in the voice of the Amish. As a best-selling author of Amish Christian Romances, Sarah Price knows how to delight her readers and fans with wonderful stories that explore literary challenges not often found in this genre. An Amish Christmas Carol is the beginning of a new genre.

    But when he recovers the hand-carved Baby Jesus that everyone thought had been destroyed in a fire the year his Grandma died, Chris realizes that some gifts are even more important than skateboards.

    Together, the friends plan a surprise to make this the best Christmas ever for Miss Allen—and maybe for them as well.

    "Recipe for a Perfect Christmas" Both Ruby and Cliff have returned home to their small Arkansas town after serving in World War II. As snow blankets the town and Christmas draws near, will their wounded hearts find healing and love? "Small-Town Christmas" Sophia never expected to return to her hometown, but she's converting her grandparents' Victorian mansion into a cafe. Then her childhood friend Jon walks into her cafe and back into her life. As Christmas descends upon the Ozark hills, Jon woos Sophie with a tender love that makes her feel like she's come home.

    The only problem is that Alex isn’t in love with me.Can I count on the magic of Christmas to make a miracle happen?

    Even as they move ahead, they will never forget the circumstances that brought them together, and both are thankful for all the good things that have happened.Emily Warren has adjusted to life in North Georgia.While she still occasionally struggles with the loss of her birth mother in a car crash this past summer, she loves living with her dad and 'new' mom. Surprised to find that she enjoys an occasional trip with her dad, one of those trips will show her just how unpredictable (and dangerous) life on the road can be.The Evans family continues to enjoy their friendship with the Warrens, and Sergeant Tony Powell is back on the job after a September incident almost ended his life.All of the Warrens family and friends will converge on the Warren home at Christmas for the very first time. All of it is a huge change from previous years.A rare occurrence in North Georgia will add some sparkle to the holiday!In the middle of it all, faith, family, and friends continue to be the order of the day.

    In this edition, the iconic images are paired with the poetry of the song to ensure that future generations will stack outrageous gift upon gift for years to come.

    With the help of Piglet, he determines to help all of the other animals clear the snow away - and then it's time for a Little Something! And once they're finished, Christopher Robin shows them all how to make a snowman...

    Hundreds of stickers add dimension to the hunt, while a special gatefold spread invites readers into Waldo’s world. Young seekers will adore the stickers and the "create-your-own-Waldo" activity, while longtime fans will revel in the exclusive new art and classic search-and-find format. Finding Waldo has never been so festive!

    But because of a snowstorm, this group of strangers ends up spending Christmas Eve together, stranded in a small train station. Despite the cold and discomfort, they create an impromptu celebration that reminds them all what Christmas really means...The Christmas BasketMore than ten years ago, highschool sweethearts Noelle McDowell and Thomas Sutton planned to elope - but then he jilted her. This Christmas, Noelle is home to celebrate the holidays, and she and Thom discover they are still in love. Now only the decades-old rivalry between their mothers stands in the way of a second chance together...Shirley, Goodness And MercyGreg Bennett is sixty-years-old and has no one to spend Christmas with. Wandering the streets of San Francisco he finds himself in a church whispering a simple heartfelt prayer. A prayer that wends its way to the Archangel Gabriel, who assigns his favourite angels - Shirley, Goodness and Mercy - to Greg Bennett's case. Because Gabriel knows that Greg's going to need the assistance of all three!

    THE KINDLE E-BOOK ON AVAIABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE DIRECT. THE HARDCOVER BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN SELECT GIFT & BOOK STORES, AND AT WWW.JESSICACLAUS.COM.Description: Everyone knows about Santa Claus. Now, it's Jessica's turn!When it comes to the biggest toy drop of the year, Santa gets most of the credit -- but he could hardly do it alone! In The Santa Switch, Mrs. Claus becomes the fabulous tour-de-force she's always had the potential to be. This sharp, modern version of Mrs. C. believes in equality, compassion, and continuing education. She loves her good-natured, big-hearted husband, and they share the same vision -- but she's definitely the doer to his dreamer. And, while Jessica Claus is CEO (Chief Elf Optimizer) of the world's most successful toy factory, she also loves to kick off her shoes and bake up a storm, spreading holiday joy to anyone willing to believe in a little Christmas magic.The positive, gender-empowering message, lovable spin on legendary characters, and eye-catching illustrations found in this two-time award-winning holiday book are sure to warm hearts and tickle funny bones of the young and the young-at-heart...making it a treasured read for all at Christmastime!The Santa Switch marks author Laura Lee Scott's first solo trip into the world of children's literature. Although the seasoned writer has never tried lichen, she'd gladly bake a lichen corn pie if the reindeer shared their flying secrets.Cheryl Crouthamel has illustrated several children's books, including Sarah O'Hara and the Gift of the Fairy Wings, The Butterfly, and Cats Following Me. If Cheryl was a cookie, she would definitely be a dark chocolate and peanture butter chip!And, be sure to look for the highly anticipated first sequel to The Santa Switch -- A Trip for Mrs. Claus -- to be available in the spring of 2014! Pre-order your hardcover copy now on www.jessicaclaus.com.

    With everyone from a ruthless assassin to the FBI, and even his ex-father-in-law after him, it almost makes him long to return to the safety of prison, where he'd spent the last three years.Those closing in on him believe he's hiding a treasure stolen by his client Diedrich Kerstman - the poster-child for corporate greed, who stole the money from his own employees. And they're right. But with Kerstman dead, Kris knows handing over the money will trigger his own demise.It all comes to a head in a Christmas Eve showdown, with it still unclear whether Kris will end up on the “naughty” or “nice” list. But he does know that his only chance to make it to Christmas morning is to write a new chapter to a classic tale.A holiday themed thriller for any season.

    Will he be able to show plain Miriam that she is truly beautiful to him?

    Maggie’s husband was killed during the holidays two years before, leaving her to raise her little boy on her own. Losing his father during the Christmas season has caused five-year-old Rickey to lose faith in Santa Claus—but the bright little boy has managed to retain his faith in God. He prays to Him each night to send him a daddy.When the small family begins receiving unexpected visitors at Christmas time that cause all sorts of unwanted complications, Police Officer John comes to the rescue. The handsome officer is truly a godsend. Has God answered Rickey’s prayers? He thinks so. But can he convince his uncertain mother that God has a plan for all of them?

    Kirk Richards tell the timeless story of the birth of Christ. Each of the images, created especially for this book, depict the nativity in a rich palette of deep reds and earth tones, accentuated with metallic gold. More than seven years in the making, these exquisite paintings reflect a deep reverence for the Savior and wonder at His birth. Each page is meticulously designed with text from the scriptures to complement the stunning illustrations. A perfect reminder of the true meaning of Christmas, this handsome volume will be treasured by the entire family for years to come.

    . . from the promise of the Messiah given to us in the Old Testament . . . to the promise of Jesus’ birth in the New Testament . . . to the promise of Jesus’ life and our salvation . . . to the promise of His resurrection and our eternal life. This unique Christmas book contains Scripture followed by brief writings that will take readers on a voyage as they explore God’s prophecies and promises for Christmas—prophecies and promises that began centuries ago. Readers will be transported through the miracles of God’s promises from Genesis throughout eternity and that Jesus would come to fulfill those promises. More than a simple story, The Hope of Christmas reveals the broad and miraculous scope of Christ’s birth in the manger and the continual gift of His love, joy, peace, grace, comfort, and much more—all within our grasp because of our one true hope, Jesus Christ. The Hope of Christmas is Jesus’ gift foretold from the beginning of time, offering salvation and a life in Him for those who believe.

    His sacrifice was honored when his widow and son were presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor. Each Christmas the final decoration Madge Reed hangs on the family s tree is that medal. Rather than being a symbol of honor for young Jimmy Reed that shining star represents loss, pain, and suffering. Yet a letter delivered by one of Robert s fellow soldiers and a mystery posed in that letter put a father s sacrifice and faith into perspective and bring new meaning to not just the star hanging on the Christmas tree but the events of the very first Christmas. Then, when least expected, a Christmas miracle turns a final bit of holiday sadness into a joy that Jimmy has never known.

    The perfect size to share with friends and family, this book is sure to start some new traditions in your home this Christmas season!

    She's even offered to give the two orphans in his charge a Christmas to remember. An outcast, Colt doesn't dare hope for more—even though Becca's love would be a Christmas wish come true.Smoky Mountain Christmas by Karen KirstCole Prescott's Gatlinburg visit will be just long enough to free his wife from their mistake of a marriage. Then he meets the daughter he hadn't known he had. Little Abby needs a father, especially at Christmastime. And all Cole wants is a chance to make a life with Rachel and Abby at last…

    So she volunteers at a downtown Denver shelter, never expecting that her own scarred heart will be filled with hope and healing. The mission's director, handsome Grant Monohan, has devoted his life to helping those in need. But his harrowing past—and what he sees every day—makes him wary of Calista. Unless she shares her painful history, he'll never believe they can have a future. But a future with Grant at the shelter is the only Christmas gift Calista truly wants.

    

    The last time she saw Tom Hunter was when he broke off their relationship. Will the old chemistry pulling them back together be stronger than the new Sally? Or will Tom have to settle for a few stolen kisses in the snow? Blind Date Marriage by Fiona HarperMeanwhile, Serena’s wondering if she’s finally hit the jackpot - could this be the blind-date that dreams are made of? She’s never met anyone like Jake before and the instant connection is shocking. It could be everything she’s hoped for… but is Jake really Mr Right? Filled with snowflakes and winter kisses, this is perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley and Miranda Dickinson

    While shopping for a Christmas tree, she runs into a love from the past. With a possible new love forming on the horizon, will the past continue to haunt her or will she be able to let it go and move on? Or is there room in her heart for her former love? Justin Thomas made the biggest mistake of his life three years ago. Now, finding himself face to face with the one he hurt the most, can he regain her trust and her love? Or will he lose her to another?

    Ella Bella, would you fetch the music box? asks Madame Rosa. Then we can have some dancing at our party. As the music begins playing, little Ella Bella is magically transported into the enchanting, festive world of The Nutcracker ballet. There, she meets the beautiful Clara and her wooden Nutcracker doll. Together, Ella and Clara must fight off the evil Mouse King so they can break the evil spell that has transformed a handsome prince into the Nutcracker doll. When the spell is broken and the prince comes to life, he leads Clara and Ella to a magic forest where they dance to the music of the famous Nutcracker ballet. On the last page of this beautifully illustrated story, young readers learn about the origins of The Nutcracker ballet, its music written in 1892 by the composer Piotr Tchaikovsky for Russia's famous Imperial Ballet.

    Curl up by the fireside and let Michael Morpurgo envelop you in stories of faraway lands and unexpected adventures.

    Her United States Navy husband Ken has perished in the bombing at Pearl Harbor. Devastated, she boards a train for Nashville, to meet her husband’s estranged family, but at a train stop along the way she discovers to her horror her purse has been stolen. Now widowed, four months pregnant, and penniless, Jerilyn finds herself stranded in Franklin, Kentucky − a complete stranger. Terrified for her future, she must learn to trust again. But is that even possible? Jerilyn drifted from the Lord years ago, and she feels unworthy to ask Him for help, until she stumbles upon a mysterious diary that will change her life forever. The compelling secrets at Christmas Hotel unleash emotions Jerilyn thought had died with her husband.

    Claus’s imagination—as they would any woman’s! This charming story finds Mrs. Claus fabulously ensconced in Paris, having enjoyed fashion week and been lured for several months’ stay by all the sights, scents, and couture of Paris. In the end, Santa takes a quick tour of the City of Light himself—the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Elysées, the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, Notre Dame, Montmartre and more—to find the satiated Mrs. Claus and whisk her back home just in time to help the elves with the last-minute packing of toys for children all over the world.

    Now back home in Sunshine, Wyoming, her Christmas goal is to succeed as a pediatrician. In no way do her plans include Dr. Michael Kramer, despite the fact that he's everywhere she turns. The standoffish widower keeps his distance from her, as if to protect his adorable daughter and himself. Yet the spirit of the season prevails. Soon Chelsea is bonding with little Macie—and her handsome daddy. Will these three hearts thaw in time for Christmas?

    If only Santa could leave George a cure for burps under the tree!

    The novellas capture a sense of nostalgia and the ideal of a good old-fashioned Christmas.It’s Christmas morning, and as the Howard sisters celebrate some of their family’s treasured traditions, they reminisce about Christmases past.Jane reads from the Bible, as their father always did, and remembers when she took part in a living Nativity. Cast as an angel, she decided to make her part more exciting, resulting in a dangerous fall from a hayloft. She should have been seriously injured, but a Christmas miracle changed the course of her life. Louise studies the badly constructed stocking she made for her newborn daughter Cynthia and recalls her first Christmas as a mother. And Alice examines the special ornament she received the year she organized a program to give all of the animals from a nearby shelter a home for Christmas.

    It's the perfect time of year for teaching young children to observe and learn their colors. It's A Colorful Christmas is a color concept book, that shows children various Christmas elements and emphasizes their colors. It's a glimpse into one family's holiday festivities and all the colors that surround them. This story includes the colors - Green Christmas tree, Blue Christmas lights, Gold star, Brown gingerbread house, Red Santa Suit, Black Santa boots, White snow, Silver bells and Orange pumpkin pie. Written in rhyme and full of fun!

    Hitchcock meets Tarantino in a tale that fuses high drama, suspense and romance. The novel was inspired by an old James Coburn film called Harry In Your Pocket. And Reb's additional research into the light-fingered art will leave readers wondering what's still in their wallets. Or where their wallets are.

    Why Christmas? is a helpful daily devotional with Scripture reading, memory verse, Christmas carol and questions to direct your child’s heart towards God. The readings, which begin on the first day of December, are Biblical, short, and effective. Colorful illustrations illuminate the events of the incarnation. This book will provide parents with the assistance they desire for leading their child to the Christ of Christmas.

    Taken from the Gospel of St. Luke, young readers can begin to incorporate the True Christmas Story into their lives and holiday traditions celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.In my home growing up, every Christmas we had a tradition of reading the Christmas story. All families have different ways of celebrating Christmas, and Santa may or may not be a part of that. In my family, Santa brought one or two surprises every year, but he wasn't the focus of our holiday. I don't even remember when Santa faded away. I do remember making birthday cakes for Jesus, and singing Him Happy Birthday on Christmas Eve. And then every year on Christmas morning, my dad built a fire in the fireplace (in sunny San Diego where it was never needed) and before presents were opened we read the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke. We prayed as a family, thanking God for the greatest gift of all, baby Jesus. After celebrating the real reason for Christmas we could dive right into opening presents. Imagine my delight when I discovered the art of VS Sheridan. This retelling of the Christmas story is not meant to replace opening the Bible. But, when I saw her art, the first thing that ran through my mind was squealing children everywhere running with excitement to read the true story of Christmas. My prayer is that each child would have the true Christmas story as a tradition in their celebration... and Jesus a place in their heart. Merry Christmas!Dana S. Chisholmhttp://www.facebook.com/danas.chishol...http://www.facebook.com/trailmediainc

    With Christmas just around the corner, James has a new car sitting on the top of his list. An entitled young man from a privileged family, James lives in his own perfect self-centered world until he receives news that shatters his young existence. Grief-stricken, he strikes out and eventually comes to realize that there is more to life than his own drama. This rich story reminds us that Christmas is a time for healing, and miracles do still happen.

    

    A road trip to Vegas. He thought it would be the perfect way to avoid painful memories he associated with the holiday--a pain that had grown as the years passed, especially now that he was retired from the military and living alone. Brett hadn't anticipated meeting Grace on the first day of his trip, an intriguing hitchhiker he picked up in a rest stop, who over the next twelve days would help him come to terms with his past and discover the true meaning of Christmas.

    The Outlaw’s Gift by Linda Goodnight1880s Oklahoma TerritoryWhen drifter Seth Blackstone shows up at Raven Patterson’s homestead, Raven thinks this may be the solution to all her problems. But Seth’s mysterious past is about to catch up with him and could mean disaster for them both.2. The Christmas Candle by Mary ConnealyArkansas Ozarks 1883Gabe Wagner, has left his hectic city life and moved onto Rose Palmer’s mountain. His plans to build a house will tear the heart out of her Ozark Mountain home. Rose learns that what she calls peace and quiet has evolved into isolation and loneliness. As Christmas approaches and she searches for the perfect way to honor the Savior’s birth, she realizes she wants to let Gabe into her life. But to do it, she may have to face a larger world that frightens her while she gives up the safe life she has always known.Can the search for the perfect Christmas candle and the broken hearts of two little boys bring a solitary woman and a grieving man together?

    The other comes with faith. When darkness overtakes the town who will have Victory?

    Anderson • Milkshakes and MittensBrian C. Ricks • Third Strike ChristmasGussie Fick • Substitute SantaJanice Sperry • SlushballsJennifer Carson Shelton • With Wondering AweJennifer Ricks • Christmas StashJennifer Ricks • The Two Hundred Forty-fourth OrnamentKasey Eyre • Gifts from JesusLeeAnn Setzer • Christmas BusLisaAnn Turner • The Real MagicMichael Young • Checkin’ It TwiceRob Smales • Fishing BuddyTeresa G. Osgood • Foreign ExchangeWeston Elliott • Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh