Mistletoe Movie Star by Stacey Weeks

Blurb:

Mistletoe Meadows is built around the magic of Christmas. As jingling sleighs cart rosy-cheeked lovers around the Mistletoe Mile, Charlene’s holiday dream is more complicated than photoshopped perfection. She proposes a compassion ministry initiative called the Gingerbread House but struggles to convince the town that their need for a homeless shelter is real.

Famous for his made for television holiday movies, Jonas longs for a happily-ever-after that isn’t as neat and tidy as his unrealistic films. Partnering with Char to champion her ministry invigorates him with a new purpose and provides an excuse to spend time with the girl he never forgot. But when they embrace three young sisters fighting to stay together while living on the streets, their project becomes deeply personal.

Together, they prove to a town reluctant to see anything other than holiday perfection that the greatest gift of the season isn’t found under a tree.

Excerpt:

Jonas held up a hand and ignored the questions until the crowd settled. It was like watching a kindergarten teacher reign in a room of four-year-olds.

Jonas spoke softly, and the crowd hushed, leaning in to hear his instructions. “If you let the children through without bothering them, I’ll give you a few minutes before going into the house. If one person says anything to the girls, snaps any photos of the girls, or

reaches out to touch the girls, the interview is over, and charges will be laid.”

With surprising respect, the reporters lowered their cameras.

Jonas nodded at Char.

“OK, girls,” Char said, “go right into the house or directly to the barn. Keep your heads down and don’t talk to anybody.”

They nodded.
Char looked at Suzy. “You good?”
Suzy lifted her chin. “I’ve dealt with worse.”
I’ll bet you have.

My Review: Charlene's desire for a homeless shelter seems destined to fail. Until a homeboy turned movie star comes to her rescue. In more ways than one. I love books that revisit old friends and this one does that as well as meeting new ones. Not one to miss.

What people are saying about Mistletoe Movie Star:

“Mistletoe Movie Star was such a charming read. The characters were wonderful and their love for others was vast. I adored the story.” Julia Wilson Christian Bookaholic

“This is such a timely story, so tenderly written. I love it when the author creates characters that I can really root for.” Carol James

“This is a heartwarming tale of second chances and compassion for the less fortunate.” Katy Eeten