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. 

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?

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 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!

 

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.”

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...

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.

1225 Christmas Tree Lane by Debbie Macomber 2011

Magical Moments…. Christmas Memories

Cedar Cove is festive and alive with the holiday spirit but there is trouble in the air.  It seems the best laid plans at times fall apart and what results can be unexpected.

Debbie has created another wonderful Cedar Cove story.  The residents experience the joys and trials that come with Christmas in a small town. In a very fun way, a batch of deserted puppies unite families in a special way.

This is a great read to help you slow down, take a deep breath, and relax with some hot cocoa!

Unwrapping Christmas by Lori Copeland

(2007)

Holiday Hectic!

This book is a great example of the do it all attitude that seems to possess many women during the holidays and often beyond.  Lori has crafted a grand story that may seem too familiar in our world of rush, rush, rush

When Rose’s devotion to service has her going, going, going and seeming to leave her family behind the results may be devastating.  An accident, on Christmas Eve, is Rose’s awakening, but will she find the right balance?

Serving God can be accomplished in many ways, but just not all at once.  This is a story about finding balance, peace and joy while the world never stops.