Now how can you argue with that logic? Any fan of Debbie Macomber knows how she peppers her books with unlikely items: for example recipes, knitting instructions and wonderfully insightful quotes. They are meant to make you smile and smile is what you will do reading this wonderful story of Reba Maxwell and Seth Webster. Reba and Seth might be cast as the stars of this book but don't be so sure. The book abounds with a fabulous supporting cast of family members and friends. Reba and Seth are decidedly two lost souls who have been existing in a world of harsh memories for the last four years. Time is supposed to help wounds heal but time hasn't been a friend to either of them. They are so caught up in the past that neither of them have had the ability or the drive to cast off these sorrows and look to the future. Seth's in-laws are facing the challenge of their lives - due to changes brought upon by the death of their daughter, retirement and their inability to communicate their desires. Seemingly the only option to them after forty years of marriage is divorce. Now with the upcoming holiday season many of these personal issues are beginning to cast a shadow over the joy of spending it with their families and enjoying a church pageant. However they are getting a much needed helping hand by Seth's most recent housekeeper, Mrs. Merkle affectionately called Mrs. Miracle by Judd and Jason, Seth's twin boys.

The reader gets so caught up in the stories of these people that at times you are so sad and discouraged but then Macomber helps you see that good times are just around the corner with just a little faith and help from your friends. Always the optimist Macomber keeps a wise eye on the solution to her characters woes. I never know whether I'm busy turning pages looking for the next part of the story or looking forward to her little quote at the start of each chapter. Either way you will not be disappointed in this latest book by an author who doesn't know the meaning of giving up without a good fight. Life's tough and sometimes we are thrown by events but reading a Macomber book teaches you how lovely it is once we take control of our lives and move on.

I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes from MRS. MIRACLE and that is: It's all right to sit on your pity pot every now and again...just be sure to flush when you're finished. Enough said -- now go buy the book.