Absolutely Charming

A Christmas Surprise In Pelican Crossing by Maggie Christensen is an absolutely charming contemporary novel which I read in just two sittings, pausing only to sleep. It is the fourth book in the Pelican Crossing series but can be read as a stand-alone.

I enjoyed catching up with familiar faces and meeting new ones. Maggie Christensen always introduces her readers to wholesome, likable, fully rounded characters who are easy to picture and to empathise with. They are an eclectic mix such as you would find in any seaside town. Their ages range from a baby to old Agnes, with the leading characters being fifty-eight and sixty-two.

Dogs also have a starring role. Dogs turn a house into a home. They help people who are feeling down. They are very much characters in their own right.

Life is for living to the full. You are never too old to start fresh opportunities. Life is for grabbing and experiencing, not for merely existing.

Pelican Crossing is a place of healing. The residents welcome new people as friends. They look out for each other, offering community and support.

We see the generations mingling as the town celebrates Christmas and New Year in the sun. (The book is set in Australia.) There are activities for all.

The grandparents within the book are extremely sprightly. Pelican Crossing brings life to everyone with sandy beaches and a friendly atmosphere – even here, there are those who seek harm for personal gain. They are hunted out by the locals.

Maggie Christensen brings the setting to life with her marvellous descriptive pen. The reader is treated to golden sands, good food and company. We all long to escape to Pelican Crossing. So banish those winter blues and grab a copy of A Christmas Surprise In Pelican Crossing today and find life and enjoyment between its’ pages.

I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON