Tag Archive | Melody Carlson

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

Dec11

Wonderfully Warm & Welcoming

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson is the most charming contemporary Christian Christmas novel which I absolutely loved.

I always look forward to the Christmas novel from Melody Carlson. When it drops through my door, I know that Christmas is not that far away.

The Christmas Tree Farm is a wonderful, warm read. It is serenely beautiful and is the essence of Christmas within a book.

We see that families are complicated affairs. Not everybody pulls in the same direction. When different things are sought, compromises must be made. Ultimately family loves. Family is not just blood related but those who love us.

Hurting people hurt people. We need to understand why people lash out and help them to heal.

Traditions are important. Memories are attached to them as we remember those who are no longer here.

All the characters were wonderfully drawn. They offered a warm welcome to the reader. They were an eclectic mix falling into two categories – those who felt happy in the mall, and those who preferred the green open spaces.

There was a charming relationship between the leading lady, Madison, and eleven-year-old Lily who lived next door. Lily had lost her mother but bonds with Madison after a shaky start. Lily brings out the best in Madison and vice versa. They teach each other new skills and work together to make a success of the Christmas Tree Farm.

A smattering of snow, a dash of romance and good wholesome characters. All can be found within the pages.

I absolutely loved The Christmas Tree Farm and am sorry that it is ended. It was wonderfully warm and welcoming. I can highly recommend it.

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

JULIA WILSON

Just For The Summer by Melody Carlson

Jun20

Positively Charming

Just For The Summer by Melody Carlson is a positively charming contemporary Christian novel that I just did not want to end.

Melody Carlson has created an eclectic mix of characters to entertain the reader. They were all realistic, with some having kinder character traits than others. Curmudgeonly old Jack was easy to imagine. His way of doing business was in direct contrast to slick but cold-hearted Diana. Likewise, warm-hearted Ginny was the direct opposite to career-aspiring Jacqueline. The characters complemented each other, showing that different skill sets are needed at different times. Most important of all, is having a kind heart.

The premise of the book is a job swap for the summer. Ginny, who works for a top Seattle hotel, swaps this for Jacqueline’s Grandad’s fishing lodge, just for the summer. Two managers. Two different skill sets. Two locations. One summer. It all equals a wonderful recipe for a wonderful read.

Clean fresh air and an outdoor life contrast with slick, city living. One location brings freedom, the other smothers. It all depends on personality type as to which place characters will bloom best.

We see the importance of having faith in God and in building that relationship through prayer. When we don’t know what to do, we must pray for guidance. “Ginny prayed a silent prayer – asking God to guide her – then she waited.” We must remember to take turns to talk and to listen to God.

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A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson

Nov28

A Fairytale For Adults

A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson is a delightful festive offering.

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a charming new novella from Melody Carlson. A Royal Christmas is a fairytale for adults. It has all the elements of a traditional fairytale – a king, a wicked queen, a lost princess – and so much more, as we see God take centre stage.

We see that when all seems uncertain, we need to trust God.  We can trust His plans and His timing as He knows just what is needed and when.

Prayer is important. If in doubt – pray. If in celebration – pray. Pray at all times. God longs to hear from us. He will always answer. “You prayed about it?… It looks like God has flung the door wide open.”

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Second Time Around by Melody Carlson

Mar31

Absolutely Charming

Second Time Around by Melody Carlson is an absolutely charming contemporary Christian novel that warmed my heart.

The book is about second chances – we see houses and interiors getting make-overs and a second chance to shine. Likewise, we witness lives with a second chance at happiness. God is not finished with us yet. While we are still breathing, God has plans for us. We can trust Him. Others may try to thwart His plans but if God has ordained it, it will come to pass.

God is the God of the impossible. “What’s impossible with us is possible with God.” Nothing is ever out of His control. All things are possible if we would just let God be God, and stop trying to take control.

Prayer is vital. “She silently prayed begging God to direct her path.” Prayer builds a relationship with God. We are to pray about everything and worry about nothing.

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