One More for Christmas

Forgiveness tops the Christmas list in this heartfelt, family-centric holiday romance from Morgan (Family for Beginners). Successful consultant Gayle Mitchell has always prioritized work over family. But after an accident lands her in the hospital, she questions her choices and reaches out to Samantha and Ella, the adult daughters she hasn’t spoken to in five years. Confident Sam, the owner of Really Festive Holiday, a travel company that organizes Christmas vacations, has always resented growing up without affection, toys, or holiday celebrations thanks to her mother’s hands-off parenting style. Sweet people-pleaser Ella, a teacher, is happily married and the mother of an adorable four year old—but she’s never told her mother about either her husband or child, fearing her disapproval. After reconnecting at the hospital, Gayle cajoles her daughters into spending the holidays with her in Scotland. The breathtakingly described highlands serve as a backdrop for moments both humorous and tender as the women reconnect and love blossoms for Sam. Morgan expertly avoids cliché and easy fixes, resulting in a deeply believable portrait of a family relearning how to love each other. Readers will be delighted. Agent: Susan Ginsburg, Writers House. (Oct.)