A Book A Week

Lisa Unger is no stranger to holiday-themed thrillers. Her 2023 release, Christmas Presents, successfully blended a compelling mystery with the backdrop of a small town at Christmastime, delivering a short read that still packed an emotional punch. So when I saw that Unger had a new holiday-themed release—this time a free short story from Amazon—I jumped at the chance to read it.

Even with Christmas fast approaching, Paige still has work to do. Only her job isn’t one you’d typically imagine. She’s an assassin, paid by a shadowy organization to swiftly and quietly “get the job done.” When Paige slips into the home of her latest wealthy target, she expects nothing out of the ordinary. The house is decorated for the holidays, of course, but that doesn’t slow her down. What stops her cold is the realization that her target isn’t alone. His young daughter is there too. Risking the wrath of her employers, Paige retreats. There are some lines she simply won’t cross.

Now her employers aren’t pleased, and these aren’t the kind of people you double-cross. No one gets out of that kind of situation alive. So Paige returns on Christmas Eve, determined to finish the job. But her plans are thwarted once again when she discovers the daughter is still there…along with someone else. Someone from her past she never expected to see. Forced to confront old traumas while the walls close in, Paige must outmaneuver her own organization if she hopes to survive the night and make it to Christmas morning alive.

At just over 70 pages, The Kill Clause still manages to pack quite a punch. Lisa Unger writes with an urgency that’s hard to resist. I found myself flying through the pages, finishing it in a single sitting. Sure, with such a short story, there isn’t much room for deep character development, and the twists aren’t as plentiful as in some of Unger’s longer works. But as a quick, punchy holiday thriller, The Kill Clause delivers exactly what it promises and is an absolute blast to read.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2025, 101)

This time of year is busy for most of us. The holidays bring a flurry of decorating, shopping, gatherings, and travel. For me, that usually means I have less time than I’d like to commit to reading, and I find myself craving books that are quicker, easier to finish. I’ve found the perfect series in Greg Kincaid’s holiday novels. A Dog Named Christmas and Noelle both deliver heartwarming holiday cheer—with plenty of adorable puppies thrown in. It’s a combination that’s hard to resist! Thankfully, the series has more entries, so I eagerly picked up A Christmas Home to see what would happen next.

Twenty-four-year-old Todd McCray never thought he would find a place in the world where he truly belonged. His developmental challenges often left him feeling out of step as he grew up. That began to change when he met a Labrador retriever named Christmas, a rescue dog who gave Todd a sense of purpose he never knew he was missing. Now, Todd works at the local animal shelter, the very place where he once fostered Christmas all those years ago. With his gentle nature and intuitive understanding of animals, Todd excels at training the dogs and helping match them with the right families.

While Todd is doing well, the rest of his small town is not. Economic times are tough. Businesses are shuttering, families are moving away in desperate search of opportunity, and tragically, many are leaving their family pets behind. The result is an animal shelter overflowing with dogs in need of homes just as the holidays approach. Worse still, with tax revenue dwindling, the city council has voted to close the shelter at the end of the year. Now, Todd faces an impossible task of finding homes for every animal before Christmas, while also coming to terms with the loss of the one place where he has ever truly felt he belonged.

A Christmas Home expands the world Greg Kincaid introduced in A Dog Named Christmas, making for a perfect holiday read. While Kincaid initially uses the economic downturn of a small town to kick off his story, I was pleased to see it evolve into a tale rooted in hope and optimism. My only real complaint with the first book was the author’s handling of Todd’s disability, and here that issue is thoughtfully corrected. Todd is given real agency as the hero of the story, and even a gentle romance subplot that feels earned rather than patronizing. All told, A Christmas Home is a warm holiday read that reminds us of the importance of hope, community, and making sure everyone has a place they can call home.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2025, 99)

December is here, and with it has come some very welcome colder weather in South Texas. My house is fully decorated for the holidays, and I’ve spent the last several nights curled up on the couch by the fireplace, snuggled up with my dogs and a good book. Several years ago, I read and enjoyed Greg Kincaid’s Christmas novel Noelle, the third story featuring characters first introduced in his hit novel A Dog Named Christmas. Even though I hadn’t read that first book, I was charmed by Noelle’s sweet message and told myself I’d eventually go back and start the series from the beginning. This week, nestled between my two dogs on the couch, I finally did just that. 

George McCray has always been protective of his son, Todd. Todd, who faces certain developmental challenges, still lives on the family’s Kansas farm well into young adulthood. George knows his son’s heart is good, but he also knows how unkind the world can be. As Christmas approaches, Todd learns that the local animal shelter is seeking families to foster their dogs for the holidays, giving the animals a brief respite from shelter life. Todd is instantly taken with the idea and longs to bring a dog home for the season. George is more hesitant. The thought of Todd bonding with a dog only to face the inevitable heartbreak of returning it on December 26th fills him with dread.

But Todd’s persistence—and his unfailing optimism—win out. Soon, the McCrays welcome a lovable dog into their home. Still, Todd can’t help but think about all the other dogs destined to spend the holiday in cages. So, using his natural charm and determination, he rallies his entire community to join the Adopt a Dog for Christmas program. What begins as one boy’s simple act of kindness becomes a lesson in compassion that transforms not just his family, but the whole town, reminding everyone of the true spirit of the season.

A Dog Named Christmas is a sweet little holiday story that highlights the power of community, the comfort of family, and the loyal love of our four-legged friends. Greg Kincaid writes with an approachable, heartfelt prose that perfectly suits this sentimental tale. Yes, it’s predictable and reads like something straight out of a Hallmark holiday movie, but honestly, that’s exactly the kind of story I’m perfectly happy to curl up with this time of year. In fact, the novel was later adapted into just such a film.

My only real complaint is the way the book handles Todd’s accessibility needs. Written in 2008, it includes the “R” word, which caught me completely off guard. Having read the third book in the series, it’s clear Kincaid’s perspective evolved with the times, but readers should be aware of that characterization before diving in. That said, I still enjoyed this cozy holiday read, especially while snuggled up with my own two dogs.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2025, 95)

Holiday stories often conjure images of warmth, joy, and the unshakable hope of the season. Yet the ones that resonate most deeply with me embrace the complexities of the human spirit, where darkness and light coexist. Consider Ebenezer Scrooge's ghostly reckoning in A Christmas Carol or George Bailey's moment of despair in It’s a Wonderful Life. These tales endure because they confront the struggles that make acts of kindness and redemption meaningful.

Claire Keegan’s novella Small Things Like These joins this tradition, offering a quietly powerful story about compassion and moral courage. Set against an unassuming backdrop, it shines not through grand gestures but through the strength of one man’s resolve to bring light into the darkness around him.

Life for Bill Furlong has been a series of quiet struggles and modest triumphs. Raised by a single mother in a small Irish town steeped in Catholic tradition, Bill always felt like an outsider. His mother's untimely death when he was just twelve left him orphaned, compounding his sense of otherness. Yet, against the odds, Bill managed to build a life of stability.

Now a coal merchant, he earns enough to provide for his wife and their five daughters. While his work doesn’t bring wealth, it sustains them—a rare accomplishment in 1985 Ireland, where economic hardship drives many to seek better fortunes in London. Bill’s existence is humble but steady, shaped by resilience and an enduring sense of responsibility.

As Christmas approaches, the frigid weather brings a surge of business for Bill. Among his regular deliveries is the local convent, a place of wealth and power in the small town. During one of his visits, Bill stumbles upon a disturbing truth hidden within its walls. This discovery forces him to reckon with the ghosts of his own past and the silent complicity of a community tightly gripped by the church’s influence.

Claire Keegan masterfully transports readers to a bygone Ireland, juxtaposing the warmth and goodwill of the holiday season with the stark hypocrisy of those in power failing to live by the values they preach. Her writing is spare yet evocative, letting the story’s quiet profundity emerge naturally without becoming overwrought. The novella is timeless, feeling like a classic while addressing issues that remain strikingly relevant today.

At just over a hundred pages, Small Things Like These is a compact but profoundly moving tale. It captures the power of quiet resistance and the impact of small acts of courage, earning its place as a standout holiday tale and one of my most memorable reads of the year.

For more information, visit Amazon and Goodreads. 

(2024, 87)

Christmas is a time for giving, togetherness, and sharing the season's joy. While I’m a sucker for the heartwarming holiday stories that flood the season, I’ve found them becoming a bit predictable. Recently, I’ve been searching for something different. This year, I was thrilled to come across You Better Watch Out, a thriller set during the holidays by James S. Murray (of Impractical Jokers fame) and Darren Wearmouth. With its eerie twist, it’s a fresh, unexpected Christmas novel that blends holiday cheer with a dash of horror—just what I was looking for.

Just days before Christmas, Eddie Parker is making the long drive home when he pulls into Old Forge for a quick stop. It’s a classic small town, the kind that time—and everyone else—seems to have forgotten. As he browses the dusty shelves of the general store, his eyes are drawn to an elderly couple shuffling through the aisles. A glimpse of crisp bills in the woman’s purse catches his attention, and despite knowing better, temptation gets the best of him. Old habits die hard, and Eddie could use the extra cash. He follows them out, ready to make his move. But just as he’s about to strike, he realizes he may have underestimated his targets. A sharp sting on his neck is the last thing he feels before the world darkens.

Jessica Kane wakes with blurred vision and a splitting headache. Her fingers brush her forehead, coming back slick with blood. Panic sets in. Where is she? How did she get here? As her vision clears, she recognizes the town of Old Forge, but something is wrong. The once-familiar place is completely abandoned, draped in eerie, vintage Christmas decorations as if frozen in time. But it’s not the past she’s traveled to. Soon, Jessica discovers five other strangers, including Eddie, each with no memory of how they arrived in this strange place. They share the same confusion and dread, but one thing is clear: they must find a way out. Escape, however, won't be easy. Someone is hunting them, methodically orchestrating their deaths, one by one. Each time, they watch helplessly as another life fades before their eyes. They must find a way out of this nightmare before they become the next victim. 

You Better Watch Out isn’t your typical holiday read. It unfolds more like a horror thriller than anything else, making for a refreshing take on the genre. Authors Murray and Wearmouth fully embrace the fun of this unique narrative, crafting a gory and thrilling holiday tale that feels like a blend of A Christmas Carol and the Saw movies. The characters aren’t exactly good people. They find themselves in a scenario that forces them to confront their past while seeking redemption for their futures. But first, they’ll have to survive.

I went into the novel blind and was blown away by the adrenaline rush it delivered. There’s a central mystery surrounding the mastermind behind this holiday horror, and the twist caught me completely off guard. While you might need to suspend some logic to fully enjoy the ride, don’t let that deter you. You Better Watch Out is a thrilling, clever novel that is a unique addition to the holiday reading season.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 77)

Merry Christmas! Whether you partake in the festivities or not, I wish you a day filled with joy, tranquility, and a sense of community. I spent last night celebrating Christmas with my family and will be traveling back home today for additional festivities this evening. In what has become a Christmas Eve tradition, I dedicated the late hours of last night into the early morning to finishing a book. This year, I chose a classic novel that I hadn't read since my school days. Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol is a timeless holiday classic that has sparked numerous retellings and reinterpretations. Immersing myself in the original text, I rediscovered its narrative and found the work to be as impactful as ever.

Attempting to summarize the book feels somewhat futile, given the well-known tale of the cantankerous Ebenezer Scrooge being visited by three spirits—a narrative that has become a trope for numerous retellings. Instead, this review aims to reflect on the enduring power of Dickens's classic tale. Through his distinctive prose, Dickens instantly transports readers to Victorian England, creating a rich setting that envelops them in a cool sense of nostalgia. While classic literature can sometimes be challenging, this story effortlessly flows off the pages. I found myself captivated, even though I was familiar with the narrative, irresistibly drawn to the next page by the enchanting writing.

Despite elements of whimsy and a joyfully happy ending, the work carries a darkness that lingers. Scrooge is a man haunted both literally and figuratively—by his past, grappling with life's what-ifs; by his present, a listless existence yielding great wealth but little satisfaction; and most terrifyingly, by his future, a looming certainty approaching with each passing day. This duality is what, I believe, continues to captivate readers with A Christmas Carol. We all encounter similar reflections on our lives, filled with regrets, upsets, and uncertainties. The holidays, while a time of exuberant celebration, also compel us to step back and reflect on the year gone by. As I turned the final pages of the book,  I was overcome with a sense of gratitude for my own life. Yes, the past year had its challenges, but Dickens's narrative reminds us that no one is beyond redemption. It is never too late to embrace the spirit of love, charity, and community that the season brings. As we approach the final days of the year, I hope you, too, take a moment to reflect and appreciate the gifts in your own life. 

For more information, visit Amazon and Goodreads.

(2023, 92)

What are your go-to holiday films? I have a list of favorites that I make sure to watch each year, and sometimes, I find myself extending my Christmas movie marathon well into the new year just to cover them all. One perennial favorite of mine is Christmas with the Kranks. Adapted from John Grisham's bestselling Skipping Christmas, the film didn't make a huge impact commercially or critically upon its release in the fall of 2004. Nonetheless, with its heartwarming message of community goodwill and boosted by the comedic talents of Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis, it has secured a permanent spot on my holiday watchlist.

Similar to the novel, the film follows Luther and Nora Krank (portrayed by Allen and Curtis, respectively) as they bid farewell to their young adult daughter Blair, who is embarking on a journey with the Peace Corps. The void left by Blair's absence triggers a case of empty nest syndrome, particularly affecting Nora, who grapples with the prospect of an upcoming holiday season without her. Considering the significant expense—over $6,000—that the Kranks incurred during the previous year's festivities, Luther proposes a radical solution. To both save money and find a fresh way to celebrate, he suggests diverting the funds typically allocated for decorations, gifts, and entertainment towards a ten-day Caribbean cruise. Luther is adamant about boycotting the traditional holiday celebrations, and after some hesitation, Nora eventually agrees.

As news of the Kranks opting out of Christmas spreads throughout their neighborhood, the community is left in disbelief at this unconventional choice. Vic Frohmeyer, the self-proclaimed block captain played by Dan Aykroyd, rallies the neighbors to persuade the Kranks to decorate their home. Despite facing a barrage of negative reactions, the Kranks stand firm in their commitment to embark on a cruise. However, everything takes a turn on Christmas Eve when they receive an unexpected call from Blair. She is back in the US and is on her way home for Christmas, anticipating all the usual family traditions. When asked if they are hosting their customary Christmas Eve Party, Nora caught off guard, impulsively says yes. Now, with less than 12 hours before their daughter's arrival, the Kranks find themselves needing to reverse their decision and hastily orchestrate a Christmas celebration.

Christmas with the Kranks takes John Grisham's concise story and injects numerous comedic moments for its stars to explore. Watching Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis navigate the preparations for a cruise, complete with tanning and botox mishaps, is one of the film's highlights. The movie boasts a supporting cast of character actors, each breathing life into the community as they grapple with the Kranks' unconventional decision to skip Christmas. However, the film has flaws, as it grapples with narrative inconsistencies and introduces a few peculiar subplots that seem more like attempts to extend the runtime than integral components of the story. The emotional moments can be heavy-handed, and the theme of a community rallying to help their fellow man isn't as pronounced as in the book. Nevertheless, this film has become a holiday mainstay in my household, serving as a suitable, lighthearted diversion during the festive season.

What is your favorite holiday tradition? For me, decorating, enjoying festive music, and savoring delicious holiday dishes are a few of my most cherished traditions, ones that I absolutely must partake in every year to capture that true Christmas spirit. Recently, I've developed a deep affection for reading holiday-themed books. They provide me with a means to momentarily escape the hustle and bustle of the season, offering a quiet sanctuary amidst the joyful chaos. I savor the opportunity to carve out some personal time each year, immersing myself in the enchantment of a holiday-themed read. This year, I was thrilled to discover that Peter Swanson, one of my favorite thriller authors, had published a short Christmas novella. Naturally, I set aside some time to sit down and immerse myself in it.

The book's beginning unfolds with the charming setup of a Hallmark holiday movie. Ashley Smith, a college student initially planning to spend Christmas in solitude, receives an invitation from her friend Emma Chapman to join the Chapman family at their country residence, Starvewood Hall. The grandeur of Starvewood Hall, adorned with pine boughs and bustling with Christmas week guests, epitomizes a fantasy Christmas setting. Ashley finds herself captivated by the warm, firelit atmosphere of the house, the lively family, and the picturesque village of Clevemoor. Her heart flutters even more at the sight of Adam Chapman, Emma's enigmatic and handsome brother, hinting at the possibility of a romantic fairy tale Christmas.

The enchanting scene takes an unexpected twist as Adam becomes the subject of a local police investigation into the recent brutal murder of a village girl. In the world of Peter Swanson's thriller, one can't help but expect the unexpected! Toss in an enigmatic stranger who lurks along the woodland path between Starvewood Hall and the local pub, and an air of mystery begins to overshadow the idyllic romance that Ashley initially envisioned. Will this Christmas prove to be a dream or a nightmare? The answers lie within the pages, waiting to be discovered.

I've always had a soft spot for Christmas stories that bring an element of mystery or darkness into the mix. The tale of Scrooge and his encounters with ghosts always captivated me more than the typical joyful and heartwarming narratives that define the holiday season. Peter Swanson's The Christmas Guest is an intriguing departure from the norm. It cleverly straddles the line between wish-fulfillment fantasy and murder mystery, blending these two contrasting elements in a way that keeps readers on their toes.

Spanning under 100 pages, this novella is designed to be devoured in a single sitting. While it may not allow for extensive character development or the intricate twists characteristic of Swanson's longer works, it is a perfect diversional read amid the bustling holiday season.  I recommend trying it as you cozy up by the fireplace with a cup of cocoa in hand. It's a snug and manageable read that I easily devoured in one go.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 88)

I know what you're thinking. What is a Christmas story doing here in the middle of spooky season? While October typically revolves around tales of ghouls, ghosts, and chilling narratives, it also marks the beginning of the holiday season in the publishing world. Many authors release their festive stories early, hoping to capture readers' attention before the holiday rush.  When my friends at Atria Books presented me with the chance to read Janice Hallett's holiday-themed follow-up to her book The Appeal, I couldn't help but get swept up by the holiday spirit. It provides a gentle introduction to the season, one tinged with a touch of mystery that I couldn't resist. 

Lower Lockwood is embracing the Christmas season, with the Fairway Players fervently rehearsing their holiday production of "Jack and the Beanstalk" to raise funds for a new church roof. However, goodwill is in short supply among amateur theater enthusiasts, with petty rivalries, concerns about asbestos in the beanstalk, and persistent absenteeism among the cast.

On the night of their production, a dead body is discovered onstage. Who could have harbored ill intentions toward the victim during this festive season? Lawyers Femi and Charlotte embark on an investigation that involves analyzing Christmas letters, scrutinizing emails, and delving into police transcripts to unmask both the victim and the killer before the final curtain falls on the holiday production. 

The Christmas Appeal provided a much-needed respite from my spooky reading. Hallett presents the story through firsthand correspondence, offering insights into the lives and motivations of the Fairway Players members. I couldn't help but become engrossed in the petty drama that permeates this community theater organization, reminiscent of my own experiences with church music groups. Everyone is a volunteer, and everyone believes they're in charge. While the murder mystery itself may be somewhat ordinary, the vividly portrayed characters and their interpersonal conflicts make the narrative incredibly engaging. The added stress of the holiday season heightens the tension. The Christmas Appeal is a delightful and brisk read, offering an escape into the holiday spirit ahead of the bustling season.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 70)

I vividly remember the first time my mom took me to see The Nutcracker. We dressed in our Sunday best and made our way to downtown San Antonio. I remember walking the streets of the city, weaving amidst the riverwalk as we made our way into the elegant theater. Once the show began, I was transported by Tchaikovsky's music, mesmerized by the sheer fantasy unfolding upon the stage. That year, I opened the gift of my very own nutcracker, a single emblem that would begin a collection that grew throughout my childhood. My brother and I would play with the toy soldiers, reenacting the story as it was told in the ballet. Years later I would find myself in the serendipitous position as a music teacher for the Houston Ballet Academy, a role that gave me the opportunity to work with students who performed in the very work that had enchanted me as a child. It is safe to say that the endearing story of The Nutcracker has been an ever-present part of my holiday traditions. 

In Hiddensee: A Tale of the Once and Future Nutcracker, author Gregory Maguire attempts to capture the origins of the endearing classic. There's probably no author better suited in tackling such a monumental story. Maguire has delved into the worlds of Alice in Wonderland, Snow White, Cinderella, and most famously The Wizard of Oz. If you've heard of the hit musical Wicked, then you are at least tangentially aware of his work. This novel imagines the origins of the mysterious Drosselmeier, the eye-patched godfather of Klara, the girl transported to the land of the sugar plum fairies. As we first encounter the famed toymaker, he is but an orphaned boy, living in the woods with an elderly couple. He learns the art of storytelling from the old woman who tells fanciful tales of fantastic worlds. The old man is more practical, teaching the boy the value of hard work and living off of the land. A tragedy at the start of this tale sets into motion a coming-of-age journey twinged with ever-growing magic, one that sees the boy grow into the famed man of the classic Christmas narrative. 

For a novel based in the same world as the spectacular Nutcracker, Hiddensee is a surprisingly subdued affair. Sure, there are glimmers of the same magic and wonder that permeate the classic story, but Maguire's take on the tale is much more firmly planted in reality. Much of the drama and action that takes up the pages of the book is built around a young man growing up without the benefit of someone guiding him through adolescence. His coming to terms with religion, art, and love would be perfectly fine if they were combined with the dazzling mystical elements of the original story. Absent these moments, the story reads as much more ordinary than it should. This combined with Maguire's penchant for classically formal language makes the short novel drag on endlessly. By the time the timeline of this origin story intersects with the tale we've come to know, it is simply too little too late. Simply put, Hiddensee is a valiant effort at an origin story that never truly lives up to the magic of the story it attempts to precede. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 52)

"In heaven, the great God will judge me, but here on earth I must leave it to you."

This time of the year, I'm craving any and everything that puts me in the holiday spirit. Christmas was a much more subdued affair last year due to the ongoing pandemic, but this year (thanks in large part to vaccinations) I'm making up for the lost time. The house is fully decorated, I've made Christmas cookies, cocktails, and I've finished with all of my holiday shopping. As I settle into the season and try to embrace the spirit of this time as much as possible, I've been drawn to reading books that do the same. Enter Andrew Klavan's novella When Christmas Comes, a holiday-themed mystery that seemed like just the book to bring the festivities into my reading. 

The setup is simple enough. A local teacher has been murdered and her boyfriend has confessed to the crime. The only problem is that no one wants to believe that he is the culprit. You see, he is a decorated soldier who the entire town has embraced as a hero, a symbol of the best things to come out of the city. Moreso, the couple seemed to have had the perfect relationship. Something simply isn't adding up. The town's authorities seem hesitant to investigate the crime, especially when all the evidence points to someone they revere. It is up to Cameron Winter, an English professor of all things, to step in and ensure that justice is served. As he takes on the unenviable task of investigating a war hero, he must also face the demons of his past. 

Some of the best Christmas stories have seeped in the things that haunt us. From Krampus to Dicken's ghosts, connecting with the spirit of the holiday often requires us to face the things that we fear. Klavan draws on this literary tradition by haunting his own characters. Each person we encounter in the short work is grappling with the implications of their pasts while working to embrace a brighter future. The mystery at the center of the narrative helps to drive the plot through each of the character beats, never letting the pace slow. The writing is at times a bit saccharine, a characteristic that I'd normally scoff at. Here, amongst the idyllic setting and Christmas theme, it gets a pass. When Christmas Comes concludes with an emotional swell that delivers on each of the moments that precede it while promising more for the characters even beyond the final page. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 51)

I think it is safe to say that for many of us, this Christmas was anything but ordinary. My Christmas traditions usually consist of traveling home to see my parents, attending Christmas Eve church services, and celebrating the evening and following day with a large family gathering. Thanks to COVID-19, this was the first Christmas that I spent away from my family. There was no traveling, and holding our usual party was simply out of the question. Still, we managed to find ways of adapting our traditions to adhere to this new normal. Instead of attending church together, I watched it virtually. Instead of gathering around the Christmas tree to unwrap presents, we shipped gifts to each other and opened them during a FaceTime call. Fortunately, one of my personal traditions stayed exactly the same. As Christmas Eve turned to Christmas morning, I stayed awake, reading the final pages of a good book. 

When John Grisham, known more for his legal thrillers than Holiday-themed fare, published Skipping Christmas back in 2001, the idea of foregoing the holiday probably sounded absurd. In fact, Luther Krank's money-saving scheme of taking a cruise instead of practicing the family Christmas traditions raised ire and disbelief across his entire neighborhood. Krank did little to appease his community perception as a modern-day Ebenezer Scrooge. In fact, he relished in the opportunity to smugly rub his nonconformity in everyone's face. As such, he isn't the most likable character. But like the aforementioned Scrooge, Krank goes through a transformation. Through the power of a community coming together to bring the spirit of the season to an outsider, Luther Krank embraces that Christmas magic and learns to appreciate the smaller wonders of the holiday. 

I've read this book before, but this year saw the novel take on a deeper meaning for me. Sure, you'll have to overlook the unlikable main character and the all too convenient plotting, but there is something to be said about the idea of skipping Christmas this year. While we didn't skip our observance of the holiday, the way in which we approached it was vastly different. I think that Skipping Christmas mirrors our reality in some ways. How easy would it have been for us to simply put a halt to our celebration? In a year that has seen so much tragedy and despair, I'll admit that it felt a bit silly falling into the commercialism of decorating my home and buying gifts. But those are just trivial parts of what this season truly means. Like the neighborhood in the book, countless friends and families came together to keep the spirit of community that flows through this season alive. While 2020 certainly hasn't looked or felt like any other year that I've experienced, I'm glad that we made the effort to persevere through it all. More importantly, I'm thankful that we didn't skip Christmas. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2020, 51)

As the year comes to an end, it is important to reflect upon the days that have preceded this one. Today marks the final day of my seventh year of blogging and reviewing books. These seven years have seen much growth for me both personally and professionally. I'm a different person today than I was years ago, but the things that have always shaped me persist to this day. One thing that has certainly only continued to grow is my love of books.

On this day of reflection and celebration, it seems only fitting to review the final novel in Elin Hilderbrand's Winter series. Seven years ago, I wouldn't have even given a second look to Hilderbran's novels. A holiday-themed family drama just wasn't my preferred genre. As my tastes have diversified, I've come to appreciate the kind of character-driven story that  Hilderbrand's series presents. More life experience for me means that I'm able to better relate to the everyday challenges faced by the family in the books. Instead of turning away from a genre that was mostly unknown, I've embraced the series and have enjoyed it immensely.

Winter Solstice is the perfect conclusion to Hilderbrand's series. I won't provide any specifics about the plot because a summary just wouldn't convey the depth of the four novel story arch. Suffice it to say, this final book sees loose ends tied up and characters following the natural progression of their development. More than any of the other three books, this one really had me feeling like I was part of the family. Hilderbrand's writing placed me amongst the laughter and the tears as the Quinn family experienced life with each other.

Winter Solstice and the entire Winter series is a wonderful read for the holiday season. The themes of family, life, death, love, and loss permeate each page of the book through characters who are as engaging as they are dynamic. Hilderbrand's writing is able to convey varying emotions and alternating perspectives with language that is easily digestible by readers. I couldn't imagine a better book to end the year on.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2018, 47)

A new year brings new triumphs and challenges to the ever-engaging Quinn family. Kelley, the patriarch of the family, has been reunited with his estranged wife Mitzi after she left him for the family's former Santa. Kelley has overcome a health scare and is happy to have his wife back by his side, running the family's Winter Street Inn like old times. Kelley's eldest son is about to be released from his prison term, his middle son is raising a family and opened a successful business, and recent revelations about his youngest son's missing military group provide hope that has been absent for the last two years.

All the good things aside, it wouldn't be a Quinn holiday without some drama. Kelley's daughter Ava is currently juggling relationships with two men, his daughter-in-law is dealing with a secret opioid addiction, and his former daughter-in-law is the drug dealer! If all that isn't enough, the Quinns are diligently preparing the inn to host a family wedding all as the holidays approach. When a huge winter storm threatens to derail all of their holiday plans, the Quinn's are forced to confront their personal tribulations and come together to make the season a success.

With Winter Storms, the third book in her Winter series, author Elin Hilderbrand recaptures some of the magic that made the first novel such a delight. The previous novel had a lot of plot to lay down, so there wasn't as much time devoted to the quieter character moments that made me fall in love with the characters in the first book. With a solid narrative foundation set, Hilderbrand is free to let her characters dictate the pace and tone of her story. She deftly combines the magic of the holiday season with the real-world struggles of an everyday family to craft a drama that is both emotionally engaging and narratively intriguing. Winter Stroll is the perfect reading companion for the holiday season.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2018, 46)

The get-togethers are over, the presents are all unwrapped, and I'm left in the afterglow of another successful Christmas. Amongst the hustle and bustle of the season, I somehow found time to binge the rest of Elin Hilderbrand's Winter series. Book two, Winter Stroll, picks up one year after the events of the first novel Winter Street.  The Quinn family has certainly changed in the last year, but they are just as engaging as ever.

Kelley Quinn is finally settling into his next phase of life at the Winter Street Inn. His second wife has found happiness in her new relationship with the inn's former Santa. Kelley has rekindled a cordial relationship with his first wife who has used her fame and fortune to keep the struggling in afloat. One son is serving out a prison sentence for insider trading while the other has just welcomed a beautiful child into the world. Kelley's daughter finally seems to be in a relationship that provides the kind of love he always knew she deserved.

Things are really looking solid for Kelley. This weekend is the annual Christmas Stroll and it promises to be a time of family and fellowship. Still, troubles of the real world linger within the idyllic halls of the inn. Kelley's youngest son is still MIA after his military convoy was intercepted in Afghanistan. One year in and they still don't know if the men are alive. The facade of a picture-perfect holiday begins to fade further as revelations of unhappiness, second guesses, and a few people from darker times in the past emerge.

Winter Stroll by Elin Hilderbrand is a book that felt like checking in on old friends. The previous novel really set the foundation for the family drama, and this book took the ball and ran with it. Each of the characters was fleshed out more from the surface level that many of them were written in the previous book. This sucked me into the world even more than before. My only real complaint with the novel is that it didn't end with any definitive closure. Instead, Winter Stroll tees up the next book for even more character development. Fortunately for me, I have the next two books ready to read!

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, or Goodreads.
(2018, 45)

We've only got a few days until Christmas, and I'm struggling to get all of my preparations in order. The past week has seen me unexpectedly purchasing a new car and spending the last several days sick in bed. Needless to say, I'm a bit behind on all things holidays. But things are beginning to get back on track. I'm basically done with my shopping (thanks Amazon!), I only have a few more days of work, and I've gotten in some really great Christmas reads. The one advantage to being home sick is you have plenty of time to catch up on reading! I quickly read through Jenny Colgan's latest book, Christmas on the Island.

The holidays can be challenging for anyone, but this year promises to be even more stressful for Flora. She lives on the island of Mure where she runs the Seaside Kitchen. Even though the tourist season has long passed, business is still booming. Ever the savvy businesswoman, Flora keeps a fresh stock of fruitcake that the locals are devouring. Business aside, she has an even larger dilemma. Flora is pregnant and isn't sure how to tell her boyfriend Joel. How will he react to this Christmas surprise?

Besides the more family driven drama of Flora, Colgan touches upon the more topical subject of political refugees. Dr. Saif has fled war-torn Syria with his two sons. The small family is slowly learning to assimilate into their new home, but the matriarch of the family is still missing. Colgan doesn't stray from the harsh realities of this subject. There is one scene that was particularly difficult to read and a bit out of place in the book. That being said, her portrayal of the realities of refugees is a stark reminder that not every family gets a picture perfect Christmas.

Overall, Christmas on the Island is a delightful read that manages to provide a character-driven drama that blends holiday fun with the realities of life. This is the third book in the series, so I'd definitely recommend reading the other two first. I didn't realize this was a series when I started, and the sheer amount of characters and implied backstory was pretty tough to juggle at first. Once I got everyone squared away, it was easy to slip into the drama that was unfolding. Christmas on the Island ended up being the perfect book to get me through a few sick days at home and to propel me into the holiday season.

For more information, visit the author's website, publisher's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
This review is part of a TLC Book Tour. Check out the full tour schedule here!

(2018, 43)

The holidays are officially upon us. There may not be snow at my Texas home, but it is certainly snowing on the blog! Readers of the blog will know I usually stick to mystery/suspense novels as my primary genre. At the start of this year, I resolved to read a larger variety of books. I still read a ton of mystery/suspense stories, but I've added a lot more non-fiction, memoirs, horror, and even a few YA/romances to my list. In that same spirit, I've decided to read a few holiday-themed books to round out my year. Kimberly over at Caffeinated Reviewer gave a glowing recommendation to Elin Hilderbrand's Winter Series. Kimberly has never steered me wrong before, so I decided to kick off my holiday reading with the first novel in that series.

Winter Street follows the extended Quinn family as they deal with the various dramas of their life on Nantucket. Kelley Quinn, the patriarch of the family used to be married Margaret Quinn, the same esteemed Margaret Quinn who currently anchors the CBS Evening News.  Years ago, the couple divorced. Kelley moved himself and their three children away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to the decidedly quieter Nantucket. Kelley has since remarried. He along with his wife Mitzi run the Winter Street Inn.

The first signs of trouble in paradise arise when Kelley catches his wife making out with the inn's long-running Santa. Mitzi quickly announces that she's in love with the Santa and has been conducting a twelve-year affair with the man. She abruptly leaves the inn, leaving Kelley to pick up the pieces. What is supposed to be a happy time of year soon makes a sour turn as each of Kelley's children are faced with crises of their own.  Legally questionable business deals, an unexpected pregnancy, and a love triangle plague each of the children. Kelly and Mitzi's son, the youngest of the Quinn clan, is stationed with the military in Afganistan. This leaves Kelley to try to rally everyone together to have a Merry Christmas.

Other than Kimberly's review, I had no real expectations of what to expect from Winter Street of Elin Hilderbrand. I was afraid the novel would be full of the schmaltzy happiness that fills all of those cringe-worthy Hallmark Channel movies. What I got instead was an honest portrayal of family life during the holidays. The novel shifts perspectives to each character as they each deal with their holiday woes. My only complaint is that with so many shifting perspectives we don't really get to see the full depth of each character. There are three more novels in this series, so I'm sure we'll get to learn more about them. For now, Winter Street is a genuine portrait of a family that more closely mirrors the other families of real life than those in the movies or TV. Despite their imperfections, the Quinn family is the kind I can relate to and the kind I'm happy to start my holiday season with.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2018, 41)

"Dogs aren't takers, they're givers."

The last couple weeks have been a real whirlwind. I took a vacation the week before Christmas, and the holiday seemed to just blow right by. In the rush, I missed out on my usual traditions of holiday baking, Christmas movies, and parties. This week, I was so desperate to hang onto every last thread of Christmas, that I decided to read a Christmas themed book. I usually shy away from holiday novels, but it turned out that a book filled with Christmas cheer was just what I needed.

Mary Ann McCray is facing some drama at the local library. As a member of its board, she is arguing against replacing their longtime Santa that appears each year. The elderly man who normally plays Santa has simply gotten too old to fulfill the role. After all, no one wants to see their Santa attached to an oxygen tank. The board members insist the decision is not about how Santa appears, so Mary Ann suggests that perhaps Santa doesn't need to be a man at all. To her surprise, the board calls her bluff. Now Mary Ann must find a way to bring Santa's wife, Anna Claus, to life.

Just in time for the holiday, Abby and Link's marriage is falling apart. They recently put all of their savings into taking their two kids on a dream vacation to Disney World. Then Link lost his job and stared drinking. The last straw for Abbey came when Link got a DUI while the kids were in the car with him. She filed for divorce soon after. The family is thrust into complete turmoil. Their son wants nothing to do with Link, Link wants to escape the town and leave his family behind, and Abbey is trying to hold everything together for the sake of her children.

Todd McCray has just moved back home. The town has opened a new no kill shelter, and he's been tasked with running it. His intuitive connection with dogs and placing them with the perfect owners makes him a perfect candidate for the job. But his latest charge has left him befuddled. Elle, as he's come to call the dog, is an odd little creature. A strange mix of retriever and dachshund, she doesn't have the pure bred look most prospective owners long for. Despite his best efforts to train her as a service dog, Elle just doesn't take well to her training. She lacks even the most basic obedience behaviors. With a new job that leaves little time to baby her, Todd fears he may never find the perfect home for Elle.

In Noelle, Greg Kincaid captures the true spirit of the season in a simple story that is both emotionally engaging and easy to read. I was reminded of those holiday movies that play on the Hallmark Channel. You can see where the story is moving from a mile away, but you can't help but enjoy the journey it takes to get there. Noelle is the second book to follow the characters that were introduced in Kincaid's A Dog Called Christmas. Having never read the previous two novels, I can't say that my enjoyment of this one was diminished in any way. Kincaid provides enough backstory and introduction to avoid readers being lost at any point. Overall, Noelle was the perfect novel for me to hang onto the holiday season a bit longer. I'd argue that we need more books like it to help remind us what this time of the year is all about.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

(2017, 51)

Merry Christmas, Alex Cross is the nineteenth installment in James Patterson's Alex Cross Series. Initially, I was hesitant to dive into this novel. Despite having read all of the previous books, and enjoying most of them, giving Alex Cross a Christmas story seemed to be stretching things a bit thin. The Alex Cross series is one of the few projects that Patterson has maintained sole writing credit on, so I decided to trust that he would continue to deliver the quality that has remained in tact throughout the series.

The novel opens on Christmas Eve, as Alex is enjoying the holiday festivities with his family, after a mostly normal day. In this opening, we reconnect with Alex's children, wife, grandmother, and newly adopted daughter who readers of the previous novel will remember. As always, Patterson writes these family scenes with an honesty that is undeniable. Perhaps this is why Alex continues to be one of my favorite Patterson characters.

Of course, all of this peace and goodwill doesn't last. Soon, Alex is called to intervene on a hostage situation. A disgraced lawyer has taken his young children, ex-wife and her new husband, and a senator's wife hostage in his former home. Alex learns that the man, who suffers from severe drug addiction, is seeking revenge on the people he blames for his downward spiral, his family. As the hours progress, Alex tries to use his expertise and personal experiences to convince the man to free his family before he destroys Christmas for both his and Alex's families.

Across town, more trouble is brewing as a known terrorist is spotted in Union Station. The FBI has tried to keep tabs on her, but is genuinely surprised at her resurfacing. Alex was the lead the profiling on the initial investigation on her, and is called by the FBI to discover her motives before she takes action. As he attempts to unravel the details of her plans, he uncovers a terrorist mission that threatens the security and well being of the entire nation.

After a disappointing effort in the previous novel, Kill Alex Cross, I was happy to see Patterson return to top form with what is certainly the best Alex Cross novel in years. As with most of my favorite Patterson novels, this story finds the perfect balance between fast paced action and relatable character development. More than any of his previous novels, Patterson delves into the psyche and motivations of the villains and reveals deeper connections between them and his hero, Alex Cross. More so, Alex begins to question his years of risking his life and family for the well-being of others. This kind of tragic outlook juxtaposed against the cheery backdrop of the holiday season makes Merry Christmas, Alex Cross an undeniable hit.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and GoodReads.

(2013: week 13, book 11)