For the past three years, Revell has published a Christmas novella by Melody Carlson. I have grown fond of them. I remember the first one I read, The Christmas Dog. What I loved most about it was that it was an enjoyable Christian novel that wasn't just a romance. Then came The Christmas Bus and Christmas at Harrington's. Both were those books you curl up with a cup of tea on a Sunday afternoon. This year Melody Carlson wrote a new one, The Christmas Shoppe. Just like its predecessors, it was a fun read.
Storyline: There's all sorts of little stories in this one story woven together. A stranger comes to Parrish Springs and purchases an old building on the main street of town. It was desired by a coniving councilman who sets out to undermine her ability to open her shop. There's the town manager who's divorced and raising her daughter with the help of her cantankerous mother in law. There's the newspaper editor who's a single fellow in his 40s and a broken heart. There's the newspaper assistant who was left by her husband for a young divorcee. And of course, Ms. Carlson intersects all of their stories with Ms. Hunnicut, the stranger who's come to town.
Writing: Ms. Carlson writes very well. Her story is very descriptive of the people and she makes the most of the words in this short book. Simply put, it's a very easy book to read and follow.
Plot: This is one I don't want to give away, because not knowing what is going to happen makes this story like a puzzle you're putting together on the coffee table. The pieces will come together. It's a just a fun leisurely afternoon reading the story and seeing all of the pieces fit.
Conclusion: If you love to read and you love made for tv hallmark movies, you'll love this book. If you've loved Melody Carlson's Christmas novels in the past, you'll love this book. And if you're just looking for a fun book to read on a rainy afternoon, pick this one up and save it for that rainy or snowy day that I'm sure is going to come this winter!
Please note that I was given a complimentary copy of this book for review by Revell Publishing.
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