Archives

From Realms Of Glory by Scott R Rezer

A Christmas Miracle

From Realms Of Glory by Scott R Rezer is the most charming contemporary Christian Christmas novella that I loved. It is the sixth book in A Festival Of Carols series but can be read as a stand-alone.

Scott R Rezer has perfectly captured the love between a husband and wife; and God’s love for them. God’s faithfulness to the couple produces a Christmas miracle on which they can stand. Having a firm foundation in the love of God is vital especially in uncertain times.

Sacrificial love on behalf of both has brought them to this point – and it is their love which will propel them forwards.

Continue reading

Home For Christmas by Heidi Swain

Wonderfully Festive

Home For Christmas by Heidi Swain is a most delightful contemporary Christmas novel that will charm the reader.

The novel is set in the few weeks leading up to the big day as we join familiar characters from Wynbridge as this is the sixth book in the series. It can be read as a stand-alone.

We join the two leading characters – one who adores Christmas, and the other who avoids all things connected with the festive season due to the painful memories it evokes. She sets out to change his mind and introduce him to the delights of Christmas. At the same time, the reader enjoys all the activities too. This really is Christmas captured in a book.

Continue reading

Merrily Ever After by Cathy Bramley

A Festive Fayre

Merrily Ever After by Cathy Bramley is the most charming contemporary Christmas novel that I loved.

The action alternates between the two lead females as their lives are similar but different. They are ships that pass in the night until they dock together. A long-held secret produces delightful results.

Grief throws up many different emotions. “I’m sad… but I’m angry. Angry… that you didn’t love me enough to stay alive.” There is no timeline for grief, the pain remains forever. “I missed her. After all these years, there still wasn’t a day passed by without me thinking about her.”

We see the difficult topic of dementia. It is hard for the relatives as they only get glimpses of the person they used to know. There is the healing power of music. “The man couldn’t remember what day it was knew every word, every note.” Relatives of the dementia patient have to be adaptable in their responses. “You find the funny side, otherwise your heart would break.”

There is a Christmas wedding to prepare for. The reader is caught up in the celebrations. We read what marriage is: “all it [marriage] takes is a capacity to love and to let yourself be loved.”

Continue reading

The Tanglewood Bookshop by Lilac Mills

Grandad’s Legacy

The Tanglewood Bookshop by Lilac Mills is a perfectly charming contemporary Christmas novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.

An unexpected change in circumstances sees the lead character relocating from London to a small Welsh village. Everything has changed for her – her job, her living accommodation, and even her mother moving to Spain. “Kazz felt rudderless and adrift. Stevie and Tanglewood offered an anchor and a safe haven.”

Tanglewood is a place of community and care; love and support; where everyone knows your name – and your business! Personal news spreads like wildfire, thanks to octogenarian, Betty! But her heart is loving. It is the perfect place to heal from the storms of life. Whenever there is a need, it is met by the loving residents.

Continue reading