A Chesapeake Shores Christmas

The fourth in the series tells the story of divorcee Megan O'Brien's reunion with her husband Mick. Twelve years after their divorce, they're ready to remarry, but not all of their adult children, particularly Connor (who was especially hurt by the divorce), support the decision. In an argument over it, Mick banishes Connor from Thanksgiving, and no subsequent apologies can bring him around. But the big day arrives and, with it, Connor's girlfriend, who hands over an infant named Mick, giving the family a shock: no one knew Connor had a girlfriend–or a baby. Slowly the O'Briens mend their relationships, growing stronger and closer as a family. Woods's latest is the most benign of fantasies, complete with awkward dialogue ("Age and maturity are two different matters. I'm not surprised that you don't know that, big brother."), flat characters, clunky plot devices, and a predictable outcome. It is also a surprisingly pleasant read, and sure to satisfy fans of the series. (Oct.)