Worried about her disappeared mom, 11-year-old Juniper sets out to get help from a mysterious woodsman she believes is actually Santa. But she gets more than she bargained for when she finds herself in a race trying to prevent a crime boss from stealing Santa’s magic.

What I liked: great characters! Juniper is a wonderful character, with a kind heart full of hope. The other cast of characters are quirky and unique. The storyline does tug at your heartstrings at times, but it is charming. Lots of themes woven in, including dealing with grief, healing, and hope.

What I didn’t like: there is only one thing, and it is minor, but there are too many point-of-view shifts for me. I understand the need to be in different characters’ heads, but it did take me out of the flow of the story at times. Again, very minor.

A great read.

4.5 out of 5 stars ( )