National Network for Equitable Library Service

Christmas is coming to the small town of Cherico, Mississippi, and there's no better way to prepare than with the Cherry Cola Book Club's feast of good food, good books-and good people. Cherico's newlywed librarian Maura Beth Mayhew is back from her honeymoon and she and Jeremy McShay are settling into married life. Maura Beth's father has even given them the down payment on a charming cottage. But as the holidays approach, Cherico's economy is struggling. Beloved local shops have closed, jobs have been lost, and there's even a mysterious crime spree afoot. Amid the gloom, Maura Beth decides what the community needs is a healthy dose of Christmas cheer--which means a special meeting of the Cherry Cola Book Club... Along with the delicious potluck offerings everyone has come to expect, Maura Beth has invited members and the public to share their most uplifting stories-and share they do. From poignant stories of grief and renewal to joyful stories of love and new life, Cherico's residents infuse the gathering with so much hope and courage they just might inspire a culprit's confession, and conjure a holiday miracle that could save the town--and Christmas.