We Need a Little Christmas

Donovan (Do You Believe in Santa?) keeps the Christmas magic going in her third tale set in the small California city of Tall Pine, where cell service is minimal and holiday-themed businesses thrive. Liv Tomblyn left Tall Pine for Dallas, Tex., where she works as a professional home organizer. When her grandmother dies around Thanksgiving, she’s drawn back and finds that Scott Leroux has ties to her family that he would love to strengthen by putting a ring on her finger. Donovan really keeps Liv and Scott apart despite Liv’s sister’s matchmaking, putting a nice spin on the usual pacing of a romance’s obstacles, though the long delay makes for an abrupt ending. Scott and Liv are very likable, and their interactions feel natural, without unlikely coincidences. Those looking for heat won’t find it here, as Donovan barely allows the lovebirds to kiss once or twice, but the Christmas cheer and sense of love will melt the heart of any reader. Agent: Jonathan Clements, Wheelhouse Literary. (Oct.)