This is a most unusual Christmas novella. A Hallmark movie it isn't, but it is as inspirational as any Hallmark movie you will watch this season.
Allie and Jack are newlyweds. They have overcome their own personal struggles to get to where they are. They are Christians who are learning and growing in their faith. Their pasts should doom them to failure. In fact, their friends on their very wedding day, good-naturedly place bets as to how long it will last. Allie and Jack have certainly given them reasons to doubt.
As the newlyweds face Christmas, they realize they don't have enough money to buy each other something really special so they take on extra jobs. Allie wants to buy Jack a fly-fishing rod, and Jack wants to buy Allie a beat-up piece of furniture she can makeover.
Then there is Ruth and Gus. Their love story is very different from Allie and Jack's although they, too, have many personal issues to work through. Their marriage is short-lived but you'll have to read the book to know why.
Then there is Evelyn, an old woman Ruth rents an apartment from before she meets Gus. Evelyn has a lot of secrets herself and when Ruth empties out her apartment, she finds a most unusual room. That starts a chain of events that impact Allie and Jack, and Ruth and Gus.
The book ends with a mysterious note found in the furniture Jack has bought for Allie, a note that changes all their lives in a most unexpected way.
Follow the twists and turns and big surprises in this book as you follow these two couples on their journey. All the questions that you will have won't get answered. But isn't that life?
CAVEAT: There is an assault scene but the scene itself is only very briefly described, in two bland sentences. You will not feel uncomfortable reading it. But the story fell flat without it.
Be inspired to make your marriage better.
Be inspired to make your Christmas better.
God is very active in this book. You may be surprised how some issues are settled. Remember, these are real people facing real struggles. Who knows how each of us would respond in certain situations.
I said it was unusual and it is. It even has a mini-journal and questions for a book club.
I hope you enjoy it. Please visit my blog, faithsighanddiy.com, for lots of helpful information to help you grow in your faith. God bless.
