The Christmas star A novel

In this ninth installment in VanLiere's Christmas Hope series (after The Christmas Town, 2016), a woman who volunteers at an after-school program finds that she gets much more out of it than she expects. Amy Denison's life is changed when she meets seven-year old Maddie, who has spent the majority of her life in foster care. Though Amy has known heartbreak, Maddie is convinced that she's found her the perfect man: the school custodian, Gabe, who is dealing with his own personal struggles. Can Maddie (and the magic of Christmas) bring these two together? This heartwarming tale is the perfect gift this holiday season. A must-add addition to any public library collection where readers enjoy uplifting romantic tales.--Nanci Milone Hill Copyright 2018 Booklist

Gabe Rodriguez has a checkered past but has found a real sense of belonging at the elementary school where he's responsible for the building's maintenance. Maddie, a seven-year-old foster child facing significant personal and educational challenges, has a friend in Gabe. After meeting new teacher Amy Denison, Maddie decides to play matchmaker for Amy and Gabe; she remains committed to the task even after discovering they've already married and divorced. Second chances abound in this story, resulting in a Christmas gift worth waiting for. -VERDICT This sweet tale of love and overcoming obstacles offers a festive atmosphere readers will savor. © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.