Christmas Wishes by Debbie Macomber 2015

Christmas Letters

Falling in love at Christmas time should be wonderful, but what if it is the wrong man? Katherine and Wynn are reluctantly tossed together when a neighbor arranges a wonderful dinner at a high class restaurant. However, differences in opinions cause turmoil on both sides.  Surprisingly, despite their dissimilarities, unexpected feelings start to grow and won’t be ignored.  Dealing with matters of the heart and possible consequences offers many twists and turns for the reader. Enjoyable and heartwarming.

Rainy Day Kisses

Life has a way of redirecting your plans, especially when it is unwanted and inconvenient.  Who would think caring for one little baby would snowball into an emotional rollercoaster. When Susannah, a dedicated and career minded businesswoman, reluctantly agrees to care for her very young niece, she feels unprepared.  When the crying won’t stop and the neighbor gets involved, Susannah’s feelings of independence are challenged.  Then unexpected emotion start to surface and grow bringing unexpected consequences. 

Great read for a cold winter’s day.

The Mistletoe Inn by Richard Paul Evans 2015

For the Writer in Us All...

How many times can a heart be shattered and keep on living?  Kimberly Rossi’s experience is not unique as she works to overcome, rejection, failed marriages and even public humiliation. The holidays carry sadness not joy as she relives memories best left forgotten. She needs something…anything that will lift her spirits and brighten her thoughts.  It comes via the postal service in the form of an invitation.  Not to a fancy preseason holiday party, the grand opening of the newest Texas Roadhouse or even for a free day spa treatment. A simple flyer for a writers conference in Vermont, half way across the country, has her full attention. The cost is more than she can truly afford but her nearly finish book awakens the longings of becoming a published writer. She tries to rationalize its merits as H. T. Cowell, her inspiration to write, will be a featured speaker.  Putting her thoughts on hold and focusing on the task at hand she packs for her trip from Denver to visit her father in Las Vegas to enjoy Thanksgiving together.  However, her hearts takes another blow when she finds out he has cancer. He is all she has left in the world. His positive outlook does little to brighten her spirits.  Determined to make this a memorable Christmas her father wants to give her a special gift but she refuses, determined not to take his money. But when he learns of her desire to attend the writer’s conference he signs her up before she can say no.  Her experiences there result in a lot more than just writing advice. Will she discover what she seeks or just dashed hopes?  Wonderfully written and a perfect read for the holidays!

A Quilt for Christmas by Sandra Dallas 2014

Will Happiness Ever Return?

Eliza is a woman of courage even when her worst fears could come true.  Leaving behind two children and his wife her husband volunteers to fight in the Civil War.  Eliza comforts other wives when they receive the devastating news of a husband fallen in battle, gone forever.  Her challenge is to keep the faith. Will had promised to come home to his family.  She must believe. 

Sandra’s writing included excellent and vivid descriptions, a progressive story line and a variety of charterers that will keep you wondering what comes next.   

The story’s pull and action seemed to lull mid book and I found myself speed reading to move to the final chapters. 

A Highlander for Christmas by Jamie Carie 2013

Missed this one last year!

This historical fiction/romance will keep you turning the pages!   

When Lady Juilet is sent to visit her uncle and family in 1714 Scotland, she never imagined the trials that lay ahead.  Caught up in a turn of events, of which she has no control, and being forced into a repulsive situation causes her to act against her nature... for survival.  The ensuing days bring danger, fear but Lady Juliet refuses to loose hope. Her heart and faith trust in God and Ian McLeon, a Scottish chiftain, to save the day!

Very descriptive writing, forceful, expressive, and dramatic!  Sure to keep you turning the pages!

A Home For Christmas by MK McClintock 2014

Three wonderful historical fiction stories...

Christmas Mountain - Katherines heart was aching as she started the cold journey up the mountain.  Would August and his daughter welcome her or would she just bring painful memories?  Only time, the healer of all wounds, would tell.

Teton Christmas - McKensie tried to be optimistic, but the sadness of loosing her parents was alot to carry.  Her and sister Madison had come to live with their aunt out west, a lifestyle neither had ever experienced before.  With Christmas just days away past memories linger and the coldness of winter presents unexpected challenges.

Lilly's Christmas Wish - Being an orphan is never easy but being sent west to a new family can be tramatic.  Lilly is lucky to have Miss Abbott to help, but will she loose her to?

If you love the 1800's like I do, you will love these stories!

Christmas at Twilight by Lori Wilde 2014

A Twilight. Texas Novel

The cover is misleading cuz you are thinking warm and fuzzy!
Jane is on the run from a sociopathic ex-husband and trying to protect her young son.  Forced to move frequently she longs for peace and security in their lives. When ex-special forces soldier Hutch returns to his home and finds Jane living there, his sister missing and his niece left behind, the tension is unpredictable and explosive.
Wounded in a battle where all his team members perished Hutch has a LOT to work through.  Emotions run high between Jane and Hutch, especially since his ability to speak has not returned.

Suspenseful twists and turns that may surprise you!

Some strong language.

ALL IS BRIGHT by Katherine Spencer 2014

Reflections and Memories - Changes and Surprises

Time for the annual Christmas services at the old stone church at Cape Light.  Many preparations are being organized for the yearly Bazaar plus a new project, a book about the history of the church.  Reverend Ben is asked to take home a box of photographs to sort through.  The trip down memory lane brings to mind challenging experiences from nearly forty years ago.  This is a delightful reflection of Reverend Ben’s first Christmas service as a new pastor and the difficulties he over comes.
Reverend Ben's daughter Rachel was widowed just a couple of years ago.  She is challenged with raising her two children. When a spark ignites between Rachel and the coach of her sons basketball team her life becomes complicated. Torn between her desire to protect her sons feelings and the awaking of her heart, Rachel's world is a roller coaster.

Angels at the Table by Debbie Macomber 2013

Good intentions – Twisted fate

When Lucie and Aren are bumped together by a well meaning apprentice angel on New Years Eve, the results are rewarding and the sparks fly.  But fate had a different plan and things soon begin to go awry when Shirley, Goodness, and Mercy try to repair the havoc started by Will.

One “good angel intention” after another, though well meant, seems to lead to more complications between Lucie and Aren and the intended future they were to find.  When Gabriel steps in and pulls the angels from earth they are heartbroken over the results of their interference.

When the prayers of Wendy, Lucie’s mother, seemed to have been over looked Gabriel gives the angels another chance.  Will there be havoc or harmony in the coming new year?  Only Lucie and Aren can make the final decisions.

A Nantucket Christmas by Nancy Thayer 2013

Struggles in the heart…

Marriage in the autumn years of life can have challenges… like a daughter, grandchild and ex-wife to complicate your world.

Nicole and Sebastian met in their retirement years and fell quickly in love, each finding a missing piece of joy.  Their new life together was sweet and blissful… for awhile.  But when Sebastian’s daughter Kennedy, husband and son come to visit, Nichole is shaken by Kennedy’s cold treatment and open distain.

Christmastime, Nicole hopes, will bring the family closer together.  Making their home shine with holiday delights for all who enter in… or so it is until a series of events steals her joy. Will Sebastian and Nicole find balance or will the burdens divide their hearts?

Well developed and interesting characters, imaginative storyline, a delightful holiday read!

The Christmas Visitor by Linda Byler 2013

A struggle with courage…

Widowed with 6 children, including a 5 month old son, Ruth is barely holding on.  Trying diligently to show a strong front for the children, it is difficult to keep her tears hidden.

When anonymous boxes, filled with essentials, appear on her porch Ruth is deeply touched.  Her struggles are physical and mental as she tries to balance raising her children alone, thankful to be watched over and blessed even in her deep sorrow. 

When a new carpenter buys a house in the Amish community and catches her eye Ruth is enchanted.  Is this a blessing or is she just lonely?

Christmas on 4th Street by Susan Mallery 2013

A Fool’s Gold Romance

Afraid to love encounters Must be loved…

When Noelle first meets Gabriel the circumstance are far from ideal. When he convinces her to hire him to work in her Christmas Shop a friendship of necessity is developed.

What grows between them is more than they want to admit, but it is a relationship that has no future.  Gabriel will be leaving in a few weeks and giving your heart short term will definitely get it broken!

There are wonderfully developed, unique characters that come alive in your mind.  The story is well written, will pull you along and has many surprises.

A wonderful holiday romance to warm your heart!

Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs 2013

Afraid to believe…

Logan and Darcy, brought together by the holiday,  are unprepared for the growing attraction between them.

Confirmed she’ll never risk her heart again, Darcy can see no chance in hell she will ever fall for another single father.  But that was before she met Logan and his heart melting smile.

A family man at heart, all Logan dreams about is finding just the right someone to be a mother to his son Charlie and open to adding brothers and sisters.  Falling for Darcy brings a reality check and an altered perspective.

Will Darcy and Logan listen to their inner voices or their hearts?

Well written with clear descriptions to open the imagination, interesting characters you can relate to and some twists and turns that make this a great read!

The Christmas Angel by Jane Maas 2013

A Comfort to Generations…

 

Unique story content that spans a hundred years of generations, from Wales to the United States, England and Wales yet again.  Told through actual letters and memories of those who lives the seasons of their lives with “The Christmas Angel” watching over them.

I enjoyed the book and the overall combined story is wonderful in content.  However it felt disjointed and the flow was not smooth from one generation to another. Though as mini stories they were intriguing.

I loved the Welsh tradition of a Christmas tree outside and the Angel could look up to God.

The Dawn of Christmas by Cindy Woodsmall 2013

Deception can destroy lives

When all but her father believe the lies her husband to be tells the day before their wedding Sadie’s life changes forever.  Her eyes did not deceive her, David had..

Starting over in a new town Sadie finds some balance in her life but trusting or wanting to marry a man is not in her plans.  Dedicated to serving God and trying to follow His plan for her Sadie has wants to return to Peru and serve another mission.  However, while visiting family, she comes across a wounded man and tries to help.  The consequences will change both of their lives forever. Will Christmas bring happiness or just another heartbreak?

An enjoyable story with strong characters, deep feelings and many twists and turns. 

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

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A Seaside Christmas by Sherryl Woods 2013

 

Forgiveness always has a price…

When the destroyer of Jenny’s heart shows up in her home town, just before the holidays, it causes a wave of reactions no one expected. Determined to cast the evil Caleb out of her life forever Jenny turns a cold shoulder.  Caleb more determined that ever to make things right, finds support in corners he never expected.  However, Jenny’s resolve to reject his good intentions requires persistence, patience and a gentle hand. Forgiveness and trust, will they be offered or will Jenny discard his love?

Wonderful story, full of deep emotions that will lift the most sorrowful heart!

A Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom by June Jacobs 2013

                                                                 

 

Miracles touch each heart differently…..

Amber’s first year of teaching six-year olds was going well,  until the principal brings an announcement that will forever alter Amber's world.  A car accident has devastated the life of one of her students, leaving her uncommunicative and withdrawn.

Will Amber be the key to the child’s recovery?  Are there others willing to help?  Working with a new found  friend Paul, Amber met in the hospital, they pull together a wonderful plan.  It will take a miracle of cooperation and support of the whole town to be successful.  The results are surprising.  Many lives are changed as the holiday spirit spreads from one family to another. Amber and her friend Paul are no exception.

A charming holiday tale to lift your spirits!

 

Starry Night by Debbie Macomber 2013

Magic under the stars…

 

When determined reporter Carrie Slayton is challenged to pull off an interview with the elusive writer Finn Dalton, a surprising chain of events is set in motion.  Society page writer Carrie is tired of the big city attitude and wants to write stories that matter... but at what cost? 

Debbie’s writing is magical as she weaves a tale that will pull at your heart strings one moment while you are trying to read between the lines the next.  Wonderful well developed characters that are lively, realistic and sure to get you riled up!

Sometimes a story hits your heart full force and so it was Starry Night. I loved every page. I could visualize, feel and experience the emotions as if I was there.

You won’t be able to put it down!

Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot

Roses in December

Wyoming winters can be harsh and the season will be coming soon. Widow Anderson isn't sure if she’ll make it through.  With a baby daughter, a boarding house, and suitors she’s not ready for Celia’s life is difficult.  But when a carpenter named Mark shows up unexpectedly he changes everything. It’s a wonderfully written story with lovable characters, clarity, and twists that will surprise you.

Perfect addition to your Christmas collection!

“Available September 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

The Christmas Pony by Melody Carlson

Through the eyes of a child… 

Christmas time and a prayer for miracles…That’s what Lucy needs for the Christmas of 1937.  Mama has been trying hard and Lucy and grandma help run the boarding house.  Money is tight, as usual, but Lucy’s heart wants to dream a bit and prays for a pony.  Strangers come to board, and it should mean more money but with conflicting personalities is it worth it? Happiness can come in wonderful ways.

A wonderful and engaging story that will delight the reader, young or old.

“Available Sept 2012  at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Susanna's Christmas Wish by Jerry Eicher

Love is the healing balm… 

When Susanna’s broken heart finds a home with her new husband Herman she relishes the chance to be a gut frau (good wife).  But when Matthew, her old sweetheart, returns from the Englisga life Susanna’s world starts coming apart.

Will the love between newly married Susanna and Herman be strong enough to keep them together?  What of the other differences, will they pull them apart or can they find common ground?

Susanna’s Christmas Wish will warm your heart, a wonderful addition to your holiday collection

The 13th Day of Christmas by Jason Wright 2012

Imagination mixed with mystery…

Christmas is a joyous holiday that brings happiness to everyone… but not always.  Sometimes we become so wrapped up in our own small worlds that we forget the reason for the season.  The 13^th day of Christmas is about giving, quite literally, even when it hurts. Two families become acquainted when a devastating loss sets one family so far back they can’t see daylight and it just keeps snowballing.  Then a kindly eighty-one year old neighbor opens her heart and their worlds become intertwined. This story will alter your perspective...

Christmas Jars by Jason Wright (A Classic)

A Christmas Classic… to be shared with every generation

To commence your life as an infant, left in a restaurant booth, is a sad introduction to the world. Such were the humble beginnings of Hope Jensen.  Hope was loved dearly by her rescuer and was adopted as the story begins.  But Hope’s future was yet to be molded into something special, one challenge at a time.

There is a special spirit of generosity that flows abundantly during the holiday season. This story is reminiscent of the lasting effects of one random act.  The rippling effect it left and the lives it changed.  Anyone who reads this story can not finish without being affected

Christmas Jars …….. Will there be one on your counter?

The Manison by Henry Van Dyke - 100th Anniversary Edition

Charity ...seen through different eyes

Giving is can be done for several reasons, and sometimes it is done so we can say to the world “Look, I have given so much”.  But true charity does not come from the pocket, it comes from the heart.  The Manson is a wonderful illustration of forgiveness, a change of heart, and loving your neighbor.

Beautiful illustrations, a timeless example of the Christmas Spirit.

Good Tidings of Great Joy (Nonfiction)

Beautifully illustrated with actual photographs of the holy land.

If you want to know the history of Christmas through the scriptures and gain a deeper knowledge and understanding this is the perfect book.  Every aspect of the life of Jesus Christ is touched upon and it is unfolded with a special spirit.

There are ideas and suggestions for your family to enjoy the season focused on the deeper meaning surrounding Christmas.  It will surly delight and uplift your holiday experience.

Love Finds You on Christmas Morning by Debby Mayne and Trish Perry 2011

A Double Delight!

Two stories, two authors and the legacy continues.

The first story, Deck the Halls, is set in the 1920’s and is very sweet in its telling.  William and Lillian are attracted to each other, but from very different worlds.  Quite simply, one family has money the other is just scraping by.  Will common sense keep them apart or is there a chance of happiness.  The struggle will reach your heart.  With misunderstandings of the naïve and pressure from family members the challenges just keep coming. Well written and definitely a page turner by Debby Mayne

The second story, Tis the Season, continues within the same family, but generations have passed.  Change has come to Cary, North Carolina but the Tronnier home still stands, but is for sale.  When it is snatched from the family by an outsider, the sparks start to fly.  Could be fire, could be love.  A delightful story to lift your holiday spirits, by Trish Perry.

Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett 2011

If Ebenezer had known…

Jacob Marley’s story is brought to light in this thoughtful an inspiring tale.  You will learn the heartbreaking circumstances that bring Jacob and Ebenezer together.

Jacob is a beloved child, the youngest.  Life brings successes, struggles and choices that set him on a bitter course.  What causes a agreeable young man to turn inside himself and reject all others?  Through the heart of Jacob T. Marley a new story unfolds.

Delightfully written, and skillfully crafted in the “Dickens’s style”.  More than mere fiction, it gives cause to reflect upon your past, present and future.

Destined to become a Christmas Classic.

Marian’s Christmas Wish by Carla Kelly 2011

Wishes Can Come True

Christmas at 16 can be a magical time, but for Marian it may be the last one with joy.  Her father left the Wynswich family deeply in debt at his death and the solicitors are threatening to take away their ancestral home.

Set in the wet and dismal English countryside this is a delightful tale of family, friends and forgiveness.  The story draws you in.  The pages turn and your heart goes out to young Marian. Romance is in bloom, but for whom?  The story is filled with surprising twists and turns that will make you laugh. However, the next corner is apt to bring danger and intrigue.

It is a wonderful read for the winter season.