LIFE’S FLAVORS 12/1- ALLISON LIBBY-THESING OF THE OAKS BED & BREAKFAST

How the Grump Saved Christmas

By Claire Kingsley

Always Have, LLC

339 pages, Kindle Unlimited or $15 on Amazon

4 Stars

Since today starts the month of December I figured that the book selection should be a holiday story. I was looking for a heartwarming story of triumph and love all under the umbrella of twinkle lights and snow. After three books, I finally settled that this would be the one I would share with you.

Isabelle Cook is the only daughter to farmers, who run a tree farm and host a Christmas Village during the holiday season. The farm is struggling to pay their bills and are currently being pursued by a company to buy them out and turn their land into a data center.

Elias Stoneheart inserts himself into the purchase of the farm, since he not only use to live in the same town as the farm but dated Isabelle while they were in High School but has since turned his heart off and is solely focused on success. He knows that if he can secure the purchase of the Cook family farm, he will receive a promotion within his company and be able to add another metaphorical notch on his belt of success.

Elias figured that all he would need to do was contact Isabelle and convince her that her family needed to sell and that would be the end of the struggle. He did not expect so much resistance from her or the outright refusal of her to even talk with him.

Once he realizes that a simple phone call will not secure him the deal, he decides to head back “home.” Little did he expect to be revisited by memories of the past that would cloud his mind and judgement to determine the best outcome for his company and the Cook family.

While yes, this story can be considered transformative, where the characters grow and overcome their struggles, I just do not feel that it’s realistic. Granted, I understand that this is a work of fiction therefore anything is possible, the changes in the characters mindset seem a little drastic.

I enjoyed the idea of the Christmas Village and think that I want to find one that remains open at different times of the year, but especially at Christmas. Holiday vendors selling their wares daily under the falling snow seems magical. Granted that would also mean moving to a place where it snows regularly so there is that to consider as well.

Overall if you are looking for a feel-good Christmas themed story this one hits the mark. Love, snow, holiday magic brining people together for the good of the community are just a few of the themes hit in this quick read. I believe I had this book finished in about half a days’ time and that was with kids, Thanksgiving and soccer games going on as well. Pick up your copy from Amazon or utilize Kindle Unlimited and read for “free.” Merry Christmas!!