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Twas The Night
(From the Bestselling Author of The Unfinished Gift, Rescuing Finley, and The Reunion)
In 1960 just days before Christmas, Theresa Dempsey, a young mother from Brooklyn, experiences an unspeakable tragedy. Two years later, she relocates to Black Rock, a small mountain town in North Carolina, hoping to make a fresh start. About that time, in a little cabin deep in the mountainous woods, young Ransom is trying to survive a day at a time, caring for his sister Emma, and an ailing father as a snowstorm approaches. Back in Black Rock, Deputy Bud Ellison is scrambling to catch a serial burglar, the first real crime this town has seen in years—during the holidays no less. On one remarkable cold, snowy night, the paths of all three of these lives will collide, and change them all forever.
In 1960 just days before Christmas, Theresa Dempsey, a young mother from Brooklyn, experiences an unspeakable tragedy. Two years later, she relocates to Black Rock, a small mountain town in North Carolina, hoping to make a fresh start. About that time, in a little cabin deep in the mountainous woods, young Ransom is trying to survive a day at a time, caring for his sister Emma, and an ailing father as a snowstorm approaches. Back in Black Rock, Deputy Bud Ellison is scrambling to catch a serial burglar, the first real crime this town has seen in years—during the holidays no less. On one remarkable cold, snowy night, the paths of all three of these lives will collide, and change them all forever.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
551 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Dan Walsh
37 books747 followersDan Walsh is the bestselling author of 27 novels including The Unfinished Gift, When Night Comes and The Reunion. Over 1.3 million copies of his books are in print or downloaded. He's won 3 Carol Awards (finalist 6 times), 4 Selah Awards and 4 of his books have been finalists for RT Review’s Inspirational Book of the Year. His novels have received over 47,000 Amazon reviews (4.7 Avg).
A member of Word Weavers International and ACFW, Dan writes fulltime in the Daytona Beach area. He and his wife Cindi have been married 46 years. You can find out more about his books or follow him on other social media sites from his website at http://www.danwalshbooks.com.
A member of Word Weavers International and ACFW, Dan writes fulltime in the Daytona Beach area. He and his wife Cindi have been married 46 years. You can find out more about his books or follow him on other social media sites from his website at http://www.danwalshbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
December 24, 2023
An endearing and heartwarming novella that illustrates the true meaning of Christmas!
December 4, 2023
“'Twas the night before Christmas When all through the house Not a creature was stirring, Not even a mouse…”
"Even Jesus said at the Last Supper, in this world we would have many troubles, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world…The next day Jesus himself, God’s own son, suffered the worst death imaginable, hanging on a cross.”
“Whatever you do for the least of these brothers of mine, you do unto Me.”
I’m a sucker for a heartwarming, uplifting Christmas story and this story certainly fits the bill. I have enjoyed several Dan Walsh Christmas stories over the years and was happy when I saw a new one available. I really liked the dual storylines that weaved perfectly together. The characters were well developed and the wintry setting in the small town of Black Rock, North Carolina in the 1960’s was perfect. It had a wonderful and timely Christian, Christmas message.
"Even Jesus said at the Last Supper, in this world we would have many troubles, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world…The next day Jesus himself, God’s own son, suffered the worst death imaginable, hanging on a cross.”
“Whatever you do for the least of these brothers of mine, you do unto Me.”
I’m a sucker for a heartwarming, uplifting Christmas story and this story certainly fits the bill. I have enjoyed several Dan Walsh Christmas stories over the years and was happy when I saw a new one available. I really liked the dual storylines that weaved perfectly together. The characters were well developed and the wintry setting in the small town of Black Rock, North Carolina in the 1960’s was perfect. It had a wonderful and timely Christian, Christmas message.
December 27, 2023
Everyone of Dan Walsh's Christmas novels has been wonderful, and "Twas the Night" keeps up his promise of lovely Christmas reads.
Theresa Dempsey had her Christmas wedding planned down to every second. But what Theresa did not count on was a blizzard happening and continuing just days before. Full of plenty of ups, downs, changes, and lost items, Theresa is sure her perfect wedding will never take place. But little does she dream that an unhappy cellist will turn her nightmare into a perfect dream come true.
Theresa Dempsey had her Christmas wedding planned down to every second. But what Theresa did not count on was a blizzard happening and continuing just days before. Full of plenty of ups, downs, changes, and lost items, Theresa is sure her perfect wedding will never take place. But little does she dream that an unhappy cellist will turn her nightmare into a perfect dream come true.
December 10, 2023
I so enjoyed this book with its sweet story. Two orphans, a woman in mourning, and a small town deputy.
January 15, 2024
Just a heartwarming uplifting Christmas novella. Loved it.
December 10, 2024
This is a beautiful, heartwarming Christmas tale. Set in a small town in the sixties, filled with charm and holiday spirit.
January 31, 2024
Nice little feel-good Christmas story.
January 11, 2024
Touching Christmas Novella
A sweet story set at Christmas. 3 different viewpoints from people experiencing challenges at Christmas. All of the characters are very likeable and deserve a happy ending.
A sweet story set at Christmas. 3 different viewpoints from people experiencing challenges at Christmas. All of the characters are very likeable and deserve a happy ending.
December 17, 2023
The ending was really sweet ❤️
December 21, 2023
Sweet little Christmas read.
January 1, 2024
Beautiful story
Beautiful story of love, compassion and Christmas miracles.
‘‘Twas The Night(The Long Way Home Book 1) by Dan Walsh
Blessed my heart.
Beautiful story of love, compassion and Christmas miracles.
‘‘Twas The Night(The Long Way Home Book 1) by Dan Walsh
Blessed my heart.
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December 8, 2023When Theresa loses her family and home in a plane crash, she moves to rural North Carolina and makes friends with a police officer and two mountain children.
If you're tired of wars, political drama, and shootings, go back to a simpler time and place with this soothing story.
If you're tired of wars, political drama, and shootings, go back to a simpler time and place with this soothing story.
November 5, 2024
awesome
Couldn’t put this book down. Read it in one setting. Can’t wait to read the next one e to see what happens to them all
Couldn’t put this book down. Read it in one setting. Can’t wait to read the next one e to see what happens to them all
November 26, 2023
Emma and Ransome
Such a precious story. If you are looking for a good start on Christmas,,,read this first…it will bless your heart.
Such a precious story. If you are looking for a good start on Christmas,,,read this first…it will bless your heart.
December 1, 2024
Heart warming.
This was a fast read which I’ll use for the ladies in my Bookclub. December is always so busy so a quick read is about all we have time for. It’s heartwarming and a beautiful story. Perfect for the holidays.
This was a fast read which I’ll use for the ladies in my Bookclub. December is always so busy so a quick read is about all we have time for. It’s heartwarming and a beautiful story. Perfect for the holidays.
December 7, 2023
Love and Healing
A heart warming Christmas story of love and healing. This is an easy and wonderful Christmas Season read! I highly recommend this inspirational book!
A heart warming Christmas story of love and healing. This is an easy and wonderful Christmas Season read! I highly recommend this inspirational book!
December 6, 2024
Twas The Night
I write this with tears in my eyes! Sentimental me! When my kids were little & I'd cry during movies, they'd call me "Leaky Faucet"! So, yeah! The epilogue, although I guessed most of it by the end of the last chapters, made me cry! What a beautiful story of how our Almighty God can take any tragedy & turn them into Miracles! I've read 2 other books by Mr. Walsh & loved them. Well, this book is totally different, but just as good! It is set in the 1960's, when I was growing up. The year I believe this story occurs, I would have been closer to Ransom's age than Emma's so between this & comments by citizens of the town, I gather that I was growing up at the same time. Our home was in a rural area, though not as rural as Ransom & Emma's, so putting myself in their place was a bare stretch of my imagination. Same with Theresa. I am a Mom & have lived in big cities. Where she leaves to find a peaceful place, I simply returned home. The setting is wonderful! The characters are terrific! The story is beautiful. God's Love & Grace, while not being "preachy", is present throughout. Religion is not the point, Love & Compassion are. I hope & pray that Mr. Walsh fits us with more, period pieces like this!
I write this with tears in my eyes! Sentimental me! When my kids were little & I'd cry during movies, they'd call me "Leaky Faucet"! So, yeah! The epilogue, although I guessed most of it by the end of the last chapters, made me cry! What a beautiful story of how our Almighty God can take any tragedy & turn them into Miracles! I've read 2 other books by Mr. Walsh & loved them. Well, this book is totally different, but just as good! It is set in the 1960's, when I was growing up. The year I believe this story occurs, I would have been closer to Ransom's age than Emma's so between this & comments by citizens of the town, I gather that I was growing up at the same time. Our home was in a rural area, though not as rural as Ransom & Emma's, so putting myself in their place was a bare stretch of my imagination. Same with Theresa. I am a Mom & have lived in big cities. Where she leaves to find a peaceful place, I simply returned home. The setting is wonderful! The characters are terrific! The story is beautiful. God's Love & Grace, while not being "preachy", is present throughout. Religion is not the point, Love & Compassion are. I hope & pray that Mr. Walsh fits us with more, period pieces like this!
December 18, 2023
free ebook
she was married , 2 kids. her husband was buying the xmas tree with the kids in brooklyn and she went to the market. there was a plane crash and it fell on her husband and kids killing them
she got some money and moved to the small town her husband had wanted to move to. she bought a big house
she became friends with the cop
there were break ins in town. then her house got broken into but only food was stolen
there was a boy and girl. their mom had died. they lived in a small cabin all their lives. their dad was sick and before he died he told them to find a town with church people so they wouldnt be split up
they found the house the lady bought. the boy went in through the unlocked window and brought food to his sister
the lady saw his muddy foot prints and called the cop. he followed the foot prints in the snow and found the kids. they brought them home to her
she got to keep them and her and the cop had feelings toward each other but it would take time.
there is another book after this one
she was married , 2 kids. her husband was buying the xmas tree with the kids in brooklyn and she went to the market. there was a plane crash and it fell on her husband and kids killing them
she got some money and moved to the small town her husband had wanted to move to. she bought a big house
she became friends with the cop
there were break ins in town. then her house got broken into but only food was stolen
there was a boy and girl. their mom had died. they lived in a small cabin all their lives. their dad was sick and before he died he told them to find a town with church people so they wouldnt be split up
they found the house the lady bought. the boy went in through the unlocked window and brought food to his sister
the lady saw his muddy foot prints and called the cop. he followed the foot prints in the snow and found the kids. they brought them home to her
she got to keep them and her and the cop had feelings toward each other but it would take time.
there is another book after this one
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2023
Extremely quick read that will warm your heart and send you looking for the next book in this series.
TWAS THE NIGHT, by Dan Walsh, begins with three unique story lines in different states with very different characters. It’s not too long before they begin to merge. Hey, this is a novella after all.
Walsh is gifted at crafting small towns I’d like to visit and filling them with quirky people. The folks in Black Rock, N. C. are no exception. We’re only introduced to a few in this first story but by the ending, I was quick to look up and happy to find a full length novel involving these characters.
Most of this story takes place in the few days prior to Christmas and comes to a climax on Christmas Eve. A biblical perspective is shared alongside the classic poem by Clement C. Moore.
This is a ragtag, but true, Christmas story that will warm your heart and may inspire you to reach out anew📚
TWAS THE NIGHT, by Dan Walsh, begins with three unique story lines in different states with very different characters. It’s not too long before they begin to merge. Hey, this is a novella after all.
Walsh is gifted at crafting small towns I’d like to visit and filling them with quirky people. The folks in Black Rock, N. C. are no exception. We’re only introduced to a few in this first story but by the ending, I was quick to look up and happy to find a full length novel involving these characters.
Most of this story takes place in the few days prior to Christmas and comes to a climax on Christmas Eve. A biblical perspective is shared alongside the classic poem by Clement C. Moore.
This is a ragtag, but true, Christmas story that will warm your heart and may inspire you to reach out anew📚
January 10, 2024
More a novella than a novel, the story centers around a young woman who has lost a lot in her life. Unable to shake her grief with her family still walllowing in it every time they see he, she recalls the honeymoon they spent in N. Carolina, and the small town that charmed them so. Now with the means to do so, she moves into a house in that town. Meanwhile, 2 young kids are orphaned when first, their mok, then their dad, die within 3 yewrs of each other. The family history precludes the kids seeking extended family on either side, so the boy follows his Pa's directions in search of a "city with church folk" that will adopt both of them.
Meanwhile, a couple robberies, one of an empty house whose family had gone to an out of state funeral & the other the house of a very hard of hearing older man, baffles the sheriff and his deputy. A third, atypical burglary occurs soon afterwards, but it becomes very obvious the perpetrators aren't the same. So, who is the new thief?
Meanwhile, a couple robberies, one of an empty house whose family had gone to an out of state funeral & the other the house of a very hard of hearing older man, baffles the sheriff and his deputy. A third, atypical burglary occurs soon afterwards, but it becomes very obvious the perpetrators aren't the same. So, who is the new thief?
October 17, 2023
‘Twas the Night
This is an absolutely beautiful story. Theresa experiences a catastrophic loss just before Christmas. A couple of years later she relocates to a small town in North Carolina where she hopes to ease her grief and get a fresh start. Meanwhile young boy, Ransom, is trying to take care of his ailing father and little sister in a small cabin nestled into the mountainous woods. Deputy Bud Ellison is diligently searching for a thief who has begun breaking into the homes of his town during this holiday season. Then the lives of these three seem to come together in one miraculous night. None of them expected the change that meeting would make in their lives.
This is an absolutely beautiful story. Theresa experiences a catastrophic loss just before Christmas. A couple of years later she relocates to a small town in North Carolina where she hopes to ease her grief and get a fresh start. Meanwhile young boy, Ransom, is trying to take care of his ailing father and little sister in a small cabin nestled into the mountainous woods. Deputy Bud Ellison is diligently searching for a thief who has begun breaking into the homes of his town during this holiday season. Then the lives of these three seem to come together in one miraculous night. None of them expected the change that meeting would make in their lives.
December 5, 2023
Twas The Night
Dan Walsh
Having lost her family to a plane crash in Brooklyn Theresa moves to a small-town Holla in the Blueridge buying a mansion one supposes with insurance and settlement money. Local eligible deputy sheriff Bud ends up being her first visitor. And the stage is set. And he didn’t even go bearing gingerbread cookies. The third point of view here is provided by Ransom and his sister Emma. I will say again I prefer novels that aren’t continually changing their point of view.
And the three groups join with a reading of Clement Moore’s famous poem. One must suppose Bud lifted the rifle before the two entered the cave.
Dan Walsh
Having lost her family to a plane crash in Brooklyn Theresa moves to a small-town Holla in the Blueridge buying a mansion one supposes with insurance and settlement money. Local eligible deputy sheriff Bud ends up being her first visitor. And the stage is set. And he didn’t even go bearing gingerbread cookies. The third point of view here is provided by Ransom and his sister Emma. I will say again I prefer novels that aren’t continually changing their point of view.
And the three groups join with a reading of Clement Moore’s famous poem. One must suppose Bud lifted the rifle before the two entered the cave.
December 16, 2023
If you enjoy Hallmark movies, this is the book for you. A young widowed woman from Brooklyn moves to small town North Carolina and meets a young deputy sheriff, who of course is described as "handsome". Throw in some poor orphans and set it at Christmas time, and there you are: Hallmark at its best.
Though I'm not a fan of such movies, this book caught my interest. Unlike the movies, this one is from a Christian point of view and tells a story that moves the emotions without the sappiness. But it is predictable in several ways. But to say how would be a spoiler, so read the book to find out.
Though I'm not a fan of such movies, this book caught my interest. Unlike the movies, this one is from a Christian point of view and tells a story that moves the emotions without the sappiness. But it is predictable in several ways. But to say how would be a spoiler, so read the book to find out.
May 16, 2024
Wonderful Christmas Story !!!
Dan Walsh is One of my favorite authors. I enjoy, as well as appreciate, the way he always manages to intertwine not only scripture into his stories, but also the "Lessons Learned" from not Just the scripture but from pastors within the STORY ITSELF! Extremely satisfying read! All of his books, at least the ones I've read anyway, are very Hard To Put Down!
Very Recommended! Within my reviews I attempt to Encourage; I do my best not to reveal spoilers that would ruin the novel for others. READ THIS very touching Novel and RELAX and Enjoy DAN WALSH!!! I am looking forward to the Second Book in this Long Way Home series !!
Dan Walsh is One of my favorite authors. I enjoy, as well as appreciate, the way he always manages to intertwine not only scripture into his stories, but also the "Lessons Learned" from not Just the scripture but from pastors within the STORY ITSELF! Extremely satisfying read! All of his books, at least the ones I've read anyway, are very Hard To Put Down!
Very Recommended! Within my reviews I attempt to Encourage; I do my best not to reveal spoilers that would ruin the novel for others. READ THIS very touching Novel and RELAX and Enjoy DAN WALSH!!! I am looking forward to the Second Book in this Long Way Home series !!
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June 8, 2023Read in
Winter Deceptions: A Collection of Christian Suspense NovellasCollection
Winter Deceptions: A Collection of Christian Suspense NovellasCollection
December 3, 2023
This was a good read, altho better editing would have made it more enjoyable.
This is the story of Emma and her older brother, Ransom, who were raised in a rough cabin by their father. Their mother was already dead.
It’s also the story of Theresa. Two years before this story takes place, Theresa’s husband and two children had been killed shortly before Christmas. Theresa finally decided to take her insurance money, move from Brooklyn where she had lost so much, and buy a house in a small town called Black Rock.
This is the story of Emma and her older brother, Ransom, who were raised in a rough cabin by their father. Their mother was already dead.
It’s also the story of Theresa. Two years before this story takes place, Theresa’s husband and two children had been killed shortly before Christmas. Theresa finally decided to take her insurance money, move from Brooklyn where she had lost so much, and buy a house in a small town called Black Rock.
December 4, 2023
What A Heartfelt Story
This is a deep, story love story for any age. Children have to deal with the death of their parents as well as a widow losing her entire family. I told you it was heartfelt but it is also entertaining and has a wonderful ending. This is love. Love for a spouse, for children, for parents, for what may happen in the future and for those you don't know just because they are needy and friendless. And isn't this the reflection of God's Christmas story to mankind? I highly recommend Walsh's book as a fantastic read and a keeper on your Kindle.
This is a deep, story love story for any age. Children have to deal with the death of their parents as well as a widow losing her entire family. I told you it was heartfelt but it is also entertaining and has a wonderful ending. This is love. Love for a spouse, for children, for parents, for what may happen in the future and for those you don't know just because they are needy and friendless. And isn't this the reflection of God's Christmas story to mankind? I highly recommend Walsh's book as a fantastic read and a keeper on your Kindle.
December 6, 2023
Oh, this is a nice feel good book. A couple of newly orphaned mountain kids, innocent as all get out, are found and taken in by a deputy and a recently widowed lady. It’s Christmas Eve and all the good things happen. There is no great tension, no excessive drama, just a good story that will make you smile and toward the end maybe even sniffle a bit if you are the sentimental type. The author portrays the characters, the setting, and the season well. There’s even a budding romance to enjoy. It is an enjoyable read, particularly during the Christmas season. Thumbs up on this one.
December 12, 2023
A heartwarming story for Christmas.
When Teresa's family is killed in a freak air accident in Brooklyn New York she starts a new life in a little town called Black Rock. As a newcomer she is the talk of the little town, but keeps herself isolated as much as possible.
Meanwhile up in the mountains a family is devastated when the father dies and leaves two children to cope for themselves. The last instruction the father gave was for the children to go down the mountain and find a city and some 'church folk'.
What follows is the story of two stories blending into one.
When Teresa's family is killed in a freak air accident in Brooklyn New York she starts a new life in a little town called Black Rock. As a newcomer she is the talk of the little town, but keeps herself isolated as much as possible.
Meanwhile up in the mountains a family is devastated when the father dies and leaves two children to cope for themselves. The last instruction the father gave was for the children to go down the mountain and find a city and some 'church folk'.
What follows is the story of two stories blending into one.
November 24, 2024
Dan Walsh is an excellent author and I am a fan of his books. Twas the Night just didn't move me. But I am sure it will be appreciated by those who enjoy a sweet Christmas tale with a happy ending. Theresa lost her family in a tragic freak accident. She moved to a small town to start over and heal. This book has a lot of touching moments. There are also a lot of loose ends which I am sure will be resolved in book 2. They just weren't compelling enough for me to finish the series. But this was a quick , easy read which was uplifting for Christmas
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews