Gifts of the Season: Christmas Then and Now

by Deborah Raney

Two Christmas novellas span almost two centuries, illustrating the timelessness of this season that celebrates the birth of the Savior of the world—then and by a family Christmas tradition of the author’s family, "Circle of Blessings" is set in Dakota Territory in 1864.Stella Bradford is determined to win the love of James Collingwood, her English professor at the university where Stella is studying to be an architect. But the object of Stella’s affection hides a dark secret from his past. And even if Stella could capture James's attention, she is certain her father would not approve of the match. But neither James nor Stella has an inkling that his secret is woven into her own past in a way that will ultimately bring blessing to them both—if only he dares to reveal “Measured with Love” is a contemporary tale set in a Mississippi River town in Southeast Missouri.Benjie Gabriel believes the chef’s position she’s just taken at an award-winning bed and breakfast is temporary—only a stepping stone to greater things. The B&B’s owner, Trevor Keye, thinks the same and—given the haughty attitude of his new chef—that’s fine with him. Will five months be long enough for them to figure out that what they’ve each been longing for, praying for, is right beneath their noses? "Circle of Blessings" was first published in the novella collection A Currier & Ives Christmas and later in A Prairie Christmas Collection.“Measured with Love” was first published as “Making Room at the Inn” in the collection, Love’s Pure Light.

Genres: Christmas, Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Contemporary

222 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2023

About the author

DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title and launched Deb’s writing career. Twenty-five years, forty-plus books, and numerous awards later, she's still creating stories that touch hearts and lives. Her novels have won RWA's RITA Award, the ACFW Carol Award, the National Readers Choice Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She is also a three-time Christy Award finalist. Deb is a recent Missouri transplant, having moved with her husband, Ken Raney, from their native Kansas to be closer to kids and grandkids. They love road trips, Friday garage sale dates, and breakfast on the screened porch overlooking their wooded backyard. Visit Deb on the Web at www.deborahraney.com.

Reviews

[Chris St Laurent · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two short Christmas romance stories one set in the past and one in the present. The stories are sweet, maybe a little too sweet, light easy reading.

[Linda Galella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having previously reviewed the first novella in this 2 story set, I will focus on the second story, MEASURED WITH LOVE.

It’s almost Christmas. In fact, it’s right before Thanksgiving and Trevor doesn’t have a chef for his award wining B&B, country inn. She’s gone on early, mandatory maternity leave with a set of twins. He’s left with all the cooking, cleaning, decorating, shopping…SO. MUCH. TO. DO…

How in the world will he ever find an appropriate chef to fill in until Meghan comes back to work? Enter Benjie; an answer to his prayers. She cooks, sings, makes beds and makes his days lighter, easier and she listens to him; hears him.

The clock is ticking on Benjie and her dream job. She knew it was only temporary but falling in love with the boss wasn’t part of the plan. Trevor was feeling similar angst. They have a connection that runs thru an antique nativity set piece - the INNKEEPER. Where did it come from? Who carved it? Who owned it? How did it come to be in Trevor’s attic? Can it unite these two young love struck people and calm their family difficulties?

So many questions for a tiny novella but author, Deborah Raney, will handle them all with efficiency and excellence. The setting is warm and gets more comfy as the story develops. Her characters are friends you’ve been waiting to meet. I have walked in their shoes or alongside someone in them; highly relatable. It won’t take long for you to discover Who or what is THE GIFT OF THE SEASON📚

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

These are two very enjoyable short stories.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually there are two Christmas novellas in this book. I couldnt find „Measured by Love“ in the database so I just used the cover of the combo volume.
This was a sweet contemporary romance set in a bed and breakfast inn in Missouri. Clean read.

[Lauri Gentry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two super sweet romantic Christmas Novellas. I really enjoyed the surprise at the ending of the first book.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful stories.

I loved these two Christmas stories. Especially the second one. My personal favorite. I've read a lot of Deborah Raneys books and have never been disappointed.

[Rebecca Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

lovely pairing

Each of these novellas is a wonderful reminder of the amazing way God brings His stories full circle. They’ll put you in the Christmas spirit no matter what part of the year it is when you read them.

[Joan Arning · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a perfect Christmas Eve and Day read! Circle of Blessings is set in the Dakota Territory in 1864. James Collingwood makes a mistake in his young years that comes to light when he later falls in love with a wealthy young lady, Stella Bradford, whose father does not approve of James courting his daughter! You will enjoy this story of second chances.
Measured With Love takes place in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, in modern times. I loved how Benjie Gabriel took a temporary job at a bed and breakfast while she continues to work on her degree. Trevor Keye is the current owner who would rather be carving or working in his woodshop than cooking breakfast! You will love how Benjie finds an old wooden nativity set that she recalls from her grandparents home. Benjie's cooking may not be the only attraction for Trevor as they work to overcome their insecurities!
You won't want to miss Gifts of the Season.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is comprised of two stories. One is historic fiction, and the other is a contemporary story.
Both of them are excellent. Circle of Blessings set in 1867-1871 Dakota Territory, is a sweet story. It reminds me of how blessed we are as God’s children that He forgives us, when we sin against Him and leads us forward with renewed determination to live our lives in accordance with his direction and expectations.

Gifts of the Season takes the reader to a modern day city on the Mississippi River in Missouri. Benjie is a college student majoring in business, who has already been trained a chef. As the story begins, she is on her way to her first position as a chef in a lovely old home, Keye’s Inn Bed and Breakfast. I think you will like this upbeat story.

[Sherida Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed these two precious stories for Christmas romance reading. The first is a historical tale with a sweet tradition explained at the surprising ending. The second is a modern tale with a charming inn filled with memories and Christmas spirit. Reading each one brought warm feelings of the special celebration of the reason we celebrate Christmas. I recommend these romances which bring the holiday spirit to the reader.

[Jeanette S. Stracner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Christmas novel!

Deborah Raney did a great job on this great book. Stella Bradford is an architect in school. She meets James Cottonwood at school. The next novella is a chef Bennie Gabriel and who visits a Bed and Breakfast and becomes a temporary chef. Her new boss is Mr. Trevor Keye. Very delightful book. Jeanette Stracner

[Martha F. Morton · Rating 5 out of 5]

True to her writing style, Deborah Raney gave you another captivated story of a couple which at first appears exact opposites of each other. But true to herself and characters a beautiful Christian story arose that pulled on your heart strings. Anyone who is a Deborah Raney fan will surely enjoy this book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved these two stories in one book, especially because the second one features Cape Girardeau, which is where I live. Heartwarming, funny, and charming, these stories will keep you engaged throughout your reading. Great for helping you enjoy the Christmas season.

[Sandra King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story!

From page 1, I kept finding ways to find the time to read more. I loved the development of the characters and their interaction with each other. I was sad when the story came to an end.

[Jeanette S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deborah Raney did a marvelous job in this Christmas novella. Stella Bradford was a student in the Dakota Territory. Very good! Bennie Gabriel applied for a temporary job at a Bed and Breakfast. Mr. Trevor Keye was the operator of it. Very great story. Jeanette Stracner

[Judy K. Schutte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable short stories

I have read Deborah Rainey stories for many years and always enjoy her writing. These stories were short-this not time for building characters. Still enjoyed the stories.

[Kathleen Bruner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, love!

As always Deborah Raney has written two lovely romantic stories! These stories are very different and yet both have the sweet spirit of the holidays and God's love made evident in a setting of falling in love.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book; two pleasant stories that were quick to read. A nice relaxing read after a busy day at work. Nothing too deep, but enjoyable just the same. Christian Christmas romance stories that are reminiscent of a Hallmark Christmas movie.

[Rose Marie Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

good book

These stories were so good. They both told of God’s love and guidance in the people’s lives. The mystery, love, romance, some sadness and laughter all mixed in to one’s regular day life. Wonderful book!

[Brenda Poulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving Hearts

Two beautiful, poignant stories to transform hearts this season. Written as only Deborah Raney can. They put a smile on my face and a flutter in my heart. God is good.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stories

Both of these stories were so good. I really liked the surprises in both stories. The main characters in both were real people who were so relatable. Highly recommend!

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A trilogy of Never-ending Love

I found warmth, delight and God’s leading in all three stories, with the greatest joy for number three. Grab this book and immerse yourself in love and the holidays.

[Bonnie Fakhri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely holiday novella duo

These novellas check all the boxes for quick, sweet, simple, and satisfying holiday romances. The author accomplished a surprising depth to the characters of these novellas.

[Gayle Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first Deborah Raney book

I loved both stories in this book. It's my first reading of her work and it met all of the good feels. I look forward to reading more!

[Evelyn Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I enjoyed these stories very much.

[MileHighSunshine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet book! The characters were wonderful and you feel like you’re right with them as the story unfolds.

[Linda Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed both stories in the Gifts of the Season: Christmas Then and Now book by Deborah Raney. I recommend it to anyone who likes Christmas stories.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

such a sweet story

I am fond of books that are just sweet and simple yet realistic. I could see this happening in real life and really enjoyed this.

[Karolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

These two stories are so charming!! Perfect for the holidays.

[Sherry Vycital · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet

Two sweet stories to warm your winter days. Deborah Raney’s enjoyable reads are a relaxing interlude for the holiday season.