Nell Fitzgerald doesn't believe it when Archer's Rest's new third grade teacher, a recently returned veteran of the war in Afghanistan, is accused of arson just days before Christmas. Her sheriff boyfriend doesn't want to believe it, either, but all the evidence points to Charlie's guilt. Can Nell figure out who was really responsible for the fire in time to save Charlie's Christmas. With help from her grandmother, Eleanor, and her quilting customers, she just might pull off a Christmas everyone will remember.

This is a heartwarming Christmas story that focuses on community and belonging. Although a mystery is at the heart of the story, it's not a murder mystery. A death would have diminished some of the book's holiday charm. While many of the characters are regulars in the Someday Quilts series, it's not necessary to have read any of the series books before reading this novella. It can be enjoyed equally by series fans, quilters, and readers looking for an uplifting seasonal story.

This review is based on an electronic advanced reader's copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley. ( )

This novella, featuring Nell Fitzgerald, centers around 3rd grade teacher, Charlie. Nell is teaching the schoolchildren of Archers Rest piece together quilt squares which will be used for quilts to be sold as fundraisers. When Charlie's home catches fire and it is determined to be arson, suspicion turns to Charlie. Nell is determined to prove that Charlie is innocent so that he can enjoy a Merry Christmas. While it's not great literature nor is it meant to be, it does provide a nice escape with a happy ending which is what many readers want around the holidays. Many people would love to be part of a community such as Archers Rest where people love you unconditionally. I received this as an e-galley from the publisher through NetGalley with the expectation that a review would be written. ( )