Call Me Mrs. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

Does anyone not love those short Christmas novels that show up on the shelves this time of year? You know the type - for the two hours it takes to read these little tales, you can escape the bustle of Christmas and get carried away into the emotional dilemma of fictional characters. Eventually you can watch the movie version on the Hallmark Channel and shed a few more tears.

This year, popular author Debbie Macomber has recently published her version of the Christmas novelette.

This sweet and gentle story involves Jake Finley, son of the owner of a large department store, and Holly Larson, who has custody of her young nephew while his father serves in the military in Afghanistan.

Both are in need of a Christmas miracle.

Jake had made an executive decision to order 500 high dollar robot toys, and his future with the family business depends on his ability to get them sold before Christmas.

Holly must figure out how to come up with the money to make Christmas special for little Gabe, while adjusting to the role of caregiver.

Enter Mrs. Miracle, who mysteriously shows up to work in the toy department of Finley Department Store. Initially Jake is dubious about her ability to identify with the patrons and sell the products. But when she seems to have a talent for customer service, including selling the $250 robots, Jake is thrilled to have her on board.

Holly and Jake meet in line at the local Starbucks, and predictably a romance blossoms. Holly learns that Jake and his father haven't celebrated Christmas since a Christmas Eve tragedy claimed the lives of Jake's mother and young sister. Holly makes it her goal to help them put the past behind them and enjoy the season once again.

Mrs. Miracle becomes entangled in all their lives, plus a few others, and everything comes to an emotional climax on (of course) Christmas day.

This is a great book to relax with during the busy season. The characters are lovable and the plot fast moving enough to keep you fascinated throughout. So treat yourself to a little quiet time, and read yourself into the spirit of the holidays.