A Holy City Christmas: Charleston Holiday Tales

by Laurie Larsen, Christina Sinisi, Dianne Miley

Charleston Holiday Tales

There’s something magical about Christmas … but in Charleston, South Carolina, the holiday is extra-special. This collection of short stories combines the festive joy of the holiday with the beauty of the Holy City … Charleston.

Presented by authors from the South Carolina Lowcountry chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers.

Dock Street Miracle by Laurie Susannah, raised in foster care, now making her timid path into adulthood, receives the chance of a lifetime when exuberant off-Broadway theater veteran Molly arrives to direct the Christmas Nativity play at the historic Dock Street Theater. Working with Molly changes Susannah’s life in many ways. But she could never agree to Molly’s last-minute request to play the important role of Jesus’ mother. Could she?

The Little Things by Robin Stearns A homeless mother, missing children, and a mystery disappearance from a Christmas nativity scene -- how will Pastor Ben Owens and his wife Rachel navigate these complications during the busy season of celebrating the birth of Christ?

A South of Broad Christmas by Christina A member of Charleston’s upper-crust meets a money-grubbing tour guide when he sneaks his tour group into her backyard—without her permission. Then, life keeps throwing them together—at Christmas. It’s almost as if the good Lord knows what he’s doing.

Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Lana has experienced the loss of her husband due to illness and then, a hurricane that almost destroyed her home. While life continues, Lana becomes involved in a mystery and possibly a new love in her life. “Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells” brings love, faith in God, and hope for the future.

Nine O’Clock, December by Jody For 31 nights every December, the mysterious stranger appears in her backyard and gazes into the harbor. Who is he? What is he seeking? As Jennie searches for his identity, she realizes she hasn't yet found her own.

It Had to Be You by Annette Marie’s idyllic world is crumbling bit by bit. Now, the United States is officially at war after the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. She hasn’t heard a word from her deployed boyfriend James. When her friends drag her to a local USO dance, she’s stunned to feel a magnetic pull to a handsome sailor. Not only was the country's future hanging in the balance, but Marie’s sense of stability and hope is shaken to the core. Would God bring hope for her future through the turmoil?

Beauty for Ashes by Dianne High school senior Calli refuses to let a little pink plus sign seal her fate into a life like her mom’s. But her firefighter boyfriend, Ember is determined to marry Calli and raise their child together. While she explores options other than parenting, Ember is called to a fire that threatens to take his life. Only divine intervention can save their love—and their lives.

It Happened One Christmas by Larry and Margaret McNab Post World War II Charleston is a city where social standing matters. A chance meeting of two people on the street at Christmas could lead to something more. But can they overcome the differences between their backgrounds and the prejudices of their families? It may all depend on the outcome of a life-threatening medical procedure.

344 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

Beachy, heartwarming and inspirational, Laurie Larsen's love stories contain a bit of faith in addition to the Happily Ever After. Her beloved Pawleys Island Paradise series gained fans, not only because of the stories and unforgettable characters, but the "arrogantly shabby" real-life island setting.

A multi-award winning author, she's won the EPIC Award for Best Spiritual Romance, the Illumination Book Award for Inspirational Romance Fiction and the eLit Award for Religious Fiction.

Laurie began her writing career back when she was juggling a challenging day job in Information Technology Management. Bewildered as to how an English major who loved to read discovered herself in a highly technical career path, writing became her creative release. Because "all good things come to those that wait," her reward finally arrived: retiring from the day job, moving to the beautiful South Carolina Lowcountry and writing novels full-time; at least, in between lathering on the sunscreen, walking the beach, and entertaining her feisty rescue pup, Weezer.

A member of Romance Writers of America for fifteen years, now, she's the President of an American Christian Fiction Writers chapter. She's lived her own Happily Ever After for over thirty years.

Want to stay in touch with Laurie?
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Reviews

[Kris Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for some positive and encouraging stories, I recommend this book. It's inspiring to read about the lives and actions of the people in the stories and get Christian encouragement as well. It's a great read to be reminded that God is at work in all situations.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson

A Holy City Christmas: Charleston Holiday Tales is a collection of short stories by multiple Christian authors. This review is for Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson.

Set in Charleston, South Carolina; with a recent hurricane and Lana continuing to grieve the death of her husband. As she adjusts to the changes in her life, she encounters a stranger in need and offers help. I enjoyed how the events in her life unfold and how Lana seeks God for His guidance and unexpectedly finds a new love. I love the inspirational aspects of the storyline. This is a sweet, heartwarming story filled with hope, new friendships and a mystery, new love and faith in God.

~~~~~~~
A Holy City Christmas: Charleston Holiday Tales
- Sunshine Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson
- It Happened One Christmas by Larry and Margaret McNab Gale
- Dock Street Miracle by Laurie Larsen
- The Little Things by Robin Stearns Lee
- A South of Broad Christmas by Christina Sinisi
- Nine O’Clock, December by Jody Stallings
- It Had to Be You by Annette Wiley
- Beauty for Ashes by Dianne Miley

~I received a PDF of a story in this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain was exchanged), this is my honest review~

[Herbert Wolfgang · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read "Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells" in this anthology. It's a lovely story of new beginnings and the promise of love and joy for Lana, Scott and Joanne. It is great to read about genuine people who keep promises, and act with the best interest of others at heart. It portrays the church environment as one where people are committed to making a difference in people's lives, show compassion, patience and go the extra mile to help. I love a story that features someone (Joanne) whose life is turned around by someone (Lana) who believes them, and gives them a chance.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A South of Broad Christmas

This story was a delight to read and really captured the spirit of downtown Charleston -- enough to make anyone homesick! Fun characters that you get to know well despite the short story length. A sweet read!

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Nine o Clock December by Jody Stallings. What a captivating short story about a young woman named Jennie who learns and grows and discovers who she really is. She sees a man in her yard every night in December at 9 o’clock. What is he doing there? Why does he never talk? Over time Jennie eventually learns who this man is and why he is in her backyard.

I loved reading all of these stories that take place in Charleston. It is wonderful being a native and getting to read stories about places around our beautiful and beloved city. This would make a great Christmas gift!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming collection of eight novellas, with each story set in Charleston, SC, and its surrounding area. I particularly enjoyed these stories as I live in the area and enjoyed “following” the characters around town. The authors draw from different Christian denominations in the stories, so there’s a nicely rounded out Christian perspective for the Holy City. My favorite tale of the eight, however, is “A South of Broad Christmas,” by Christina Sinisi, which I feel particularly captures the social dynamic in Charleston. Jessamine, a wealthy Charleston “blueblood” descendant and heiress, meets and is drawn to Phillip, a struggling tour guide “from away.” Sinisi does a good job of capturing the “been here” and “come here” tensions, but also the flavor of Charleston at Christmas. Of course, as a friendship develops between the two protagonists, the tension of the social dynamic eases and a relationship forms. The faith of the characters deepens and grows as well, as it does in all the stories in the collection, drawing the characters closer. It’s hard not to read these stories and smile at the end, as the warmth, love, and faith embodied in each tale wraps around the reader.

[John Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like tree ornaments of differing sizes, shapes and colors, this collection of Christmas stories offers a diversity of writing styles and perspectives. The following comments apply to the story "The Little Things" by Robin Stearns Lee. Over the years I've had the pleasure of reading several of her stories and articles which were mostly non-fiction. This story shows how she has grown as a writer of fiction. Her descriptive details paint a vivid picture of downtown Charleston and Old Mt. Pleasant, reminding me of those places I haven't seen in decades. Her style makes it easy to forget you're reading words and not actually watching real people going about their lives. The author's compassion for others, love of family and faith in God radiate from her words, just like in her personal life. This story is a reminder that we don't always get what we want, but we sometimes get what we need ...if we trust in God. Immediately after reading the story I had a craving for a slice of character Maggie's lemon cake. I'm also craving to read more from this author. If the stories of this collection don't touch a reader's heart, then "Bah! Humbug!"

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Dock Side Miracle by Laurie Larsen and LOVED it!! Susannah was raised in foster care, but now has a job she loves and her own apartment. She happy with her safe little life, where she goes to work and goes home. She's afraid to step out of her comfort zone. Until she meets Molly. She goes out of her comfort zone to ask Molly to be her mentor. The more time she spends with Molly, the more she comes out of her shell. When Molly asks her to play the part of Mary for opening night, will Susannah be able to do it, or will this push her back into her comfort zone for good?? And, how does Joey figure in to everything?? I want more of these characters!! As a person who is more introvert, I could relate to Susannah! Love how she pushes herself and finds out she's got value!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Robin Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful idea to combine stories of Christmas joy with the majestic beauty of Charleston, South Carolina! All eight stories written by members of a local writing group are centered on faith, and the love so abundantly displayed during the holidays.

Dianne Miley’s “Beauty for Ashes” is written so beautifully that I had tears in my eyes at the descriptions of past family holidays, and the hope for the future, as well as familiar scenes from the Lowcountry. Miley portrays a family in crisis, pulling together and grasping at hope, and celebrating how God intervened to bring a perfect solution. I was especially pleased to see characters making an appearance from Miley’s first anthology story featured in “Charleston Light.”

A beautiful read! Grab a copy of “A Holy City Christmas” for every reader on your Christmas list!

[Debra Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson.

Lamenting a recent hurricane taking her favorite spot on the beach, Lana Pierce reflects on her life and gives thanks for the presence of her new love, Scott Simmons.

Remembering this beloved spot she’d shared with her late husband, Lana finds herself in the church sanctuary, seeking peace for the loss of both. Here, she encounters Joanna, a homeless woman, and Lana’s one act of kindness towards Joanna leads to changes in her own life and in Joanna’s, as well as the lives of many in the community. Throw in a mystery, a Christmas pageant, and you have a story filled with hope and love and so many God moments—you will love it. Recommended.

I received an advance copy of this story within this collection with no expectations. The opinions are my own,

[Ashley B · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Nine O’clock, December," a captivating tale by Jody Stallings, is featured in the anthology "A Holy City Christmas: Charleston Holiday Tales." This short story masterfully weaves a mysterious narrative around a man who returns every December, sparking curiosity and intrigue. As the story unfolds, the reader becomes immersed in the life of Jennie, a young woman who becomes captivated by the enigmatic figure. Stallings expertly balances suspense and romance, creating a poignant and unforgettable reading experience. With its evocative prose, compelling characters, and exploration of themes like love, loss, and the enduring power of connection, "Nine O’clock, December" is a must-read for fans of literary fiction. It's a tale that lingers in the mind long after the final paragraph, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

[Susan Sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology contains eight novellas set around Christmas in Charleston, South Carolina, which is the “holy city” mentioned in the title. If the other stories are as good as those I read–which I fully expect since the writers are all members of Word Weavers–this is a book you’ll want to read every year during the holidays.

“A South of Broad Christmas” by Christina Sinisi is a delightful tale that involves the unlikely association and eventual romance between an upper-crust socialite and a tour guide who can barely make ends meet. These two slightly quirky characters were a lot of fun to read about.

[Bob Ryner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I especially enjoyed reading "The Little Things" by Robin Stearns Lee. The story was quickly engaging and the characters were believable but not fully predictable. Using the setting of a Christmas nativity scene to save two young children who seem to be forgotten was a heart warming story. I am thankful that there are authors out there who are dedicated to providing interesting and engaging stories that have a moral foundation and Christian examples of people living out their struggles and beliefs.

[Mary Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Dock Street Miracle by Laurie Larsen, it was a great feel good story. It centered around Susannah who worked at historic theater, led a very sheltered life and kept everyone at arms length. But with the help of a mentor, Molly, Susannah comes out of her shell. She learns more about running a theater, starts joining the theater group for outings and discovers the real meaning of Christmas. Laurie Larsen never disappoints.

[Terri R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson, a sweet story of love and kindness. This story was about Lana, who encounters a down-on-her-luck woman named Joanna. Lana extends a helping hand to Joanna which leads to more opportunities for Joanna to turn her situation around. At the same time, Lana’s relationship with her love interest, Scott, blossoms. A heart-felt story that demonstrates how one act of kindness can turn a person’s life around.

[KristieReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie writes beautiful stories filled with amazing characters who are trying to find their way or figure out a situation. This is a quick read but filled with happiness, joy and courage.

Susannah is a bit shy, doesn’t take a lot of chances but is trying to out herself to situations that will expand her knowledge. She finally herself a great mentor - Molly - who has so much faith in Susannah. She gives her a chance of a lifetime and turns into a huge success.

A great read!

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a heart-warming story!
Susannnah is a shy exployee of an off-Broadway Theater in historic Charleston SC. Growing up as a foster care child, she always felt less-than. Content to work behind-the-scenes just to be a part of the theater atmosphere. When an enthusiastic director arrives to direct the Nativity play, Susannah is given the chance of a lifetime. Will she embrace her Cinderella moment?

[Carrie Pagels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab this Christmas Anthology right away!!
I have a Kindle copy of this collection. I was beyond delighted to read Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson -- especially when I realized it was a continuation of a story she'd written in a previous anthology! Lovely touching story with vibrant characters set at the beach! I used to live in the Charleston area and the author does a great job in bringing in the "flavor" of the area. Highly recommend!

[R.E.Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful collection of short stories. They are all well done, but two stand out, especially for this reader. One is Larry and Margaret Gale's story of a WWII medic's reliance upon faith to find his love. The second is Christina Sinisi's tale of love that crosses the social boundaries of modern Charleston. Her story reminds us that the ability to forgive is central to any, and all, relationships. Well done.

[Linda Rutland · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful read!

I know this a group of Christmas stories but I've enjoyed each and every one. I lived in Charleston for about six years in the early seventies so it was kind of like going back in time for me. Great Christmas short stories with faith and romance and spanning many historic eras. I also thought it interesting that various denominations are represented with Christmas programs and services in those wonderful historic churches in Charleston.

[Cheryl Schuermann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in historic Charleston, South Carolina, “Sunshine Shells and Christmas Bells” by Melissa Henderson is a sweet and heart-warming story. The reader experiences not only an unlikely, life-changing friendship, but a God-ordained relationship with a fresh chance for love after loss. Add a beach, a mystery, and a Christmas pageant, and you have the makings of a fun and satisfying story.

[Ashley Harris]

Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells by Melissa Henderson is a wonderful story of love and friendship set during Christmas time (the best time of all!). I loved this continuation of the story of Lana and Scott, and their children Andi and Lee. Their story provides a wonderful example of how God can put the right people in our path at just the right time.

[Melissa McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming Christmas Stories of Love and Faith

Heartwarming stories! Each novella contained interesting characters and joyful plot twists bound by a Christmas theme. These uplifting tales of love and faith will refresh your heart. I loved reading these short stories by various authors. Highly recommend!

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dock Street Miracle

This is good! Savannah was a solitary individual with social anxiety. Enjoyed seeing her growth. In asking Molly to mentor her at her job, she ventured out bit by bit beginning at a woman's Bible study. How far can she go? With God's help, further than she had ever imagined.

Received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Jody Stallings' "Nine O'Clock, December" story and was touched by the heart warming tale of two people finding their way to each other. There are many twists and turns that leave you guessing and wanting more. I can't wait to read the other stories in this anthology!

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful anthology of stories that touch the heart and soul. My story is "Sunrise Shells and Christmas Bells".

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dock Street Miracle is a sweet short story about just how far a shy, introvert can go when she has an inspiring mentor and faith! I really enjoyed Ms. Larsen’s book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story! I love Laurie’s books and his one is no exception! Great story, great characters, and great city! Get the book, you’ll enjoy it too!!

[Renee Cryer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book. Loss that turned into love for not only the man but renewed love for God. He used a tragedy to bring two together. I highly recommend this short story.

[Donna MICH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting and inspirational. I found the story "It Had To Be You" to be a page turner that kept me reading to find out the resolution for the main characters.