Christmas Angels

Heartwarming but forgettable, Naigle’s inspirational, TV movie–like Christmas story is a pleasant way to spend a chilly fall day. Liz Westmoreland keeps a foothold in Charlotte, N.C., while developing a thriving career launching retail stores worldwide. She secretly longs to reopen her grandparent’s B and B, the site of her fondest memories, so when the building comes up for auction, she impulsively buys it—sight unseen—and drives two hours west into the mountains to see what awaits her in Antler Creek. Overwhelmed by the renovations required, Liz finds a friend in Matt Hardy, an Antler Creek local who had already estimated the cost of repairing the inn in hopes of buying it himself. Matt fondly remembers Liz from her teen years and decides to act as her general contractor to help her achieve her dream. In Naigle’s idyllic town, all the neighbors pitch in to help Liz and celebrate the Christmas season with hot chocolate and prayer. Matt and Liz don’t generate heart-pounding chemistry, but their sweet relationship is satisfying, particularly when Matt’s dog is added to the mix. This placid contemporary will please undemanding fans of holiday romances. (Oct.)