August 15, 2022
In this wholesome holiday standalone from Carlson (Julianne and the Judge), a woman finds community in unexpected places. After Vera Swanson’s husband died, she relocated to be closer to her adult daughter, Ginny, but Ginny moved away when her husband’s employer transferred him. Now Vera lives in a city where she doesn’t know anyone and expects to spend Christmas alone. Then her neighbor’s four-year-old daughter, Fiona, shows up at Vera’s door asking for help with her sick mother, Kerry. Vera rushes Kerry to the hospital and agrees to watch Fiona and her siblings. Fiona takes a liking to Vera’s homemade quilt and pleads with her to make Kerry one for Christmas, which is fast approaching. To help expedite matters, Vera puts up help-wanted posters and enlists an artist, a retired therapist, and a member of the local church. The four bond as Vera teaches the others to quilt, forming an ad hoc family. Vera had doubts about God after her husband died, but she returns to the faith, believing God responsible for bringing Fiona into her life and introducing her to new friends. The winning dynamic between the rambunctious Fiona and the reserved Vera delights, and the focus on generosity and community exudes Christmas spirit. This is perfect for fireside reading on a cold December night. Agent: Sara Fortenberry, Sara A. Fortenberry Literary.