A Canine Christmas

by Jennifer Sienes

What do you get when you mix a mail carrier, a monstrously large canine and his surly owner, and a mysterious death?

Amelia Hutchinson can’t seem to find her place in the world. Or maybe she’s just watched too many Christmas Hallmark movies. But come on, how come Aurora Teagarden and Hallie Dean get more exciting careers, and all Amelia gets to be is a mail carrier? Not to mention, she’s living in her sister and brother-in-law’s guest house, and the only man she could find did not appreciate the purity ring her daddy gave her.

Rayce Jasper just wants to sell his late granddad’s farm and throw away the painful past that comes with it as soon as possible. But the memories of the man who betrayed him, a ditzy mail lady, and a strange request put a kink in his agenda.
As Rayce and Amelia’s worlds collide, neither of them can deny that God must be weaving His own Christmas story for the two of them.

128 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2025

About the author

Award-winning author Jennifer Sienes is college-educated but discovered life experience is the best teacher. She loves Jesus, romance, and writing and puts it all together in inspirational contemporary fiction/romance. Her Apple Hill Series takes place in Northern California, and her Southern fiction Bedford County Series and Norfolk Southern Series are set in Tennessee where she now resides. When she isn’t writing, she works in her garden, refinishes old furniture, and dabbles with home décor.

Reviews

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fun, heart-touching story. The main character, Amelia Hutchinson, is an impulsive and loyal young woman who is searching for direction and “the adventure of a lifetime”. When Porter, a lovable Cane Corso-black lab mix canine, first greets her in an exuberant way, changes immediately begin to happen in Amelia’s life. As the encounter with Porter brings Rayce Jasper into her life, neither Amelia or Rayce could imagine how her first meeting with Porter will lead them to realize that God has does indeed have specific plans for their lives.

Jennifer Sienes writes beautiful southern fiction with wonderful characters and interesting storylines. This is a heartwarming story that kept me both smiling and turning pages to see if Amelia did find “her adventure of a lifetime”. This story has a Christmas background, but it’s an endearing story for any time of year.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Joan]

This is a fun inspirational Christmas romance. Even though it is novella length at a little over a hundred pages, it contains all the essential elements of a good romance. The plot contains a misunderstanding that develops into a huge obstacle and we wonder if there is hope for Amelia and Rayce. The focus of the narrative alternates between the two so we get to understand the feelings of both of them.

Dogs play a vital role in this novella so dog lovers would be drawn to this story. There is a good faith message included. This is another heart warming story from Sienes, especially for the Christmas season.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Jeannine Bennett]

Jennifer Sienes delivers a heartwarming tale in A Canine for Christmas, blending humor, romance, and faith into a charming holiday story. The combination of small-town charm, engaging characters, and holiday spirit creates a story filled with warmth and depth.

Amelia Hutchinson is a relatable and endearing protagonist. With her quirky personality and comparisons of her life to Hallmark movies, she brings a mix of humor and longing that makes her feel authentic. Her role as a mail carrier becomes the perfect way for her to cross paths with Rayce Jasper, and their interactions are filled with witty banter and moments of genuine connection.

Rayce is a thoughtful contrast to Amelia’s bubbly demeanor. Struggling with family betrayal and the emotional weight of selling his grandfather’s farm, he is grounded and authentic. His more serious nature highlights the dynamic between them, creating a balance of humor and emotional depth.

The story seamlessly incorporates themes of forgiveness, second chances, and trusting in God’s plan. These elements add meaning to the story without overshadowing the lighthearted moments. The inclusion of a mysterious request and glimpses into the past adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, enhancing its complexity.

The large canine is more than just a source of comedy; it also symbolizes the unexpected blessings that life can bring. The dog’s presence adds charm and heart to the story.

The small-town setting, described with festive details and cozy atmospheres, enhances the book’s tone and draws readers into a snow-dusted holiday world. Jennifer Sienes’ vivid descriptions and thoughtful storytelling create a narrative that feels both timeless and uniquely engaging.

This is a story that brings together romance, mystery, and faith in a way that captures the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of human connection.

Note: I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

[MrsK Books]

Meet Amelia, a mail lady who had one of those moments in which what should have been a mundane event turned into a momentous "trajectory" change in her life. It all began when she was delivering her last package at an old farmhouse in Shelbyville. The delivery to a Mr. Rayce Jasper would prove to be one of the most heart stopping moments of her life.

Rayce is a copywriter who is notified that he is now the last of his bloodline. His granddad's estate is now his to clean up and get on the market. The last thing he expected on that October day was an attack on a mail lady by his "sweet" Cane Corso. That's all he needed was a possible lawsuit.

As an inspired mystery sleuth, Amelia couldn't let the encounter pass. While at the local library, she discovered a 2004 suspicious headline about a death at the Jasper Farm. Who was Bruce Benton? Why after all this time had Rayce moved into the old farmhouse? Why was he at the library while she was investigating his family?

With a plan in place, Amelia begins her "further" investigation by making a deal with Rayce. She would help him clean out his grandad's farmhouse if he would help train a puppy for her niece. Will Amelia solve the mystery of the farmhouse death... or does she embrace the pivotal reality... that some moments in life are really God's unexpected grace?

This short novella, was an unexpected reader delight. The characters are well crafted with an endearing capacity to entice an afternoon curled up with a holiday retreat. The conversations are humorous and engaging. The story line, well, is there anything more enjoyable than an old farmhouse with a library filled with first editions or a mysterious romance? This is a keeper, if you have family, friends, or a book club this is the book to pass around for your holiday read!
MrsK https://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/p/...

[Erin]

A Canine Christmas is a wonderful light and fluffy holiday novel of romance. And of dogs of course! You’re going to love it! I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the novel. I started it, knowing that I would love it because I love this author. She does an amazing job of taking real life, a life that is hard and messy, and putting it into her books in a way that is compelling and honest.

In this novel we have Amelia. She’s currently a mail carrier. And when she encounters a new name on her route she’s curious. But that curiosity soon turns to horror when a huge ( and I mean gigantic) dog bounces out the front door straight at her!! Mind you, the dog isn’t actually mean and doesn’t actually make any contact, but she does fall and get slightly hurt.

The dog’s owner feels bad, somewhat, but he doesn’t see what the big deal is. His dog is trained. And he’s not mean at all. Why is this new mail person so scared? And why does he care?

Rayce has some things to figure out. Why he’s still so angry at his grandfather after 20 years of no contact and his dying? Maybe he should find out why this happened? But he doesn’t want to. He wants to erase that time, sell this house, and get out of here.

This story is fun. It reads quickly. The characters are wonderful. They’re engaging and feel like they’re alive right next to me. I hope you get the chance to read this novel. You’ll love it too.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Deana Dick]

This has been such a great book to read. There is laughter, faith and trust that weave throughout the story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and especially Porter. I recently have seen this breed and they are amazing. “There are no bad dogs, just bad owners.” I loved this quote because it is so true. Many dogs are labeled dangerous when it really has to do with how they are raised.

Amelia is such a fun character who has this dream to be a private detective. Right now she is a mail carrier who lives with family. Maybe someday she will see her dream come true. She sure has a special place in her heart for her niece. Helping her overcome her shyness Amelia thinks it would be a great idea to get her a dog as a companion. First Amelia needs to overcome her fear of dogs. This leads us to our next character.

Rayce recently inherited a farm which really surprised him. Why was he left this by a person who didn’t want anything to do with him? Rayce struggles with this rejection and knows he needs to forgive and move on. Meeting Amelia may be a good thing for him but the jury is still out on that. When his dog gets a bit too friendly with Amelia as she is delivering his mail this starts a relationship that may be good for both people.

Get ready for a fun adventure with two people who must deal with the past while seeking God for their future. One of the themes I loved in this book was second chances and the past past doesn’t have to define our future. Learning to forgive can open doors where our heart has become bitter.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kendra Neal]

I really enjoy Christian Romance books and Jennifer Sienes is one of my favorite for this genre. A Canine Christmas is Book 5 of The Bedford County Series. I have been enjoying this series and recently read this book.

I am so excited for a new release that has a Christmas theme as we enter the Christmas season. The 2 main characters in this book are Amelia Hutchinson and Rayce Jasper. Amelia and Rayce encounter each other when Amelia has to deliver a mail package to Rayce. Amelia has a fear of dogs as she is mail carrier. Rayce has a large dog named Porter and Amelia really is uncomfortable around Porter. Rayce and Amelia begin spending time with one another as they have agreed to help one another with some projects. Rayce is going to train a puppy for Amelia's niece before Christmas arrives. Amelia is going to help Rayce clean his Grandfather's house of the clutter before he puts it on the market to sell. A HUGE misunderstanding almost ruined their growing friendship. I really LOVE how both Amelia and Rayce recover from this misunderstanding. Rayce doesn't plan on staying in the small town after he sells his Grandpa's estate, but will God change his mind. I have to say I started reading this book and finished it within 3 hours as it is short but very intriguing and sweet! The story is one of Faith, LOVE, Forgiveness and Second chances. I I HIGHLY recommend this Clean, Sweet Christian Romance. AMAZING BOOK!

[Keren Herrera-Lyles]

Author Jennifer Sienes, combines heart warm stories with characters that connect with you in one way or another. And in A Canine Christmas she nails it. In a story where friendship and dreams collide together, will Amelia and Rayce find that they fit not only in town but with each other.

Amelia looking for adventure and wanting to become a Investigator works as a mail carrier. Rayce, a copywriter and new in town has inherit his granddad's home. But when his huge dog Porter collides with Amelia while delivering a package, not only does an adventure begin for both but they both realize that they need each other as much as God's guidance.

With kept journals, a newspaper article, family and the love of dogs. This story brings a cheerful spirit to it and the characters involved.

I received an e-arc from the author and all stated here are my own. I was not required a positive comment.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy]

This short and sweet Christmas story is filled with this author's signature heart with wonderful characters whose personalities leap off of the page right into your heart.

Amelia Hutchinson is the local mail carrier, but she sees no reason why she cannot be a private investigator as well. If Aurora Teagarden can do it, she can. After meeting Rayce on her mail route, along with his humongous dog, she decides she will investigate this mysterious man. Somehow they keep running into one another. Could it be a little divine intervention? As they get to know one another better after she asks for his assistance on a project, it seems her dreams could be right in front of her.

This heartwarming, inspirational story will fill your heart to the brim and maybe cause you to laugh a little too.

Thank you to the author and Celebrate Lit for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Patti Pierce]

A Canine Christmas by Jennifer Sienes combines Christian Contemporary Romance, Christmas Fiction, and Southern Fiction. Amelia Hutchinson struggles to fit in and find a place she belongs. While delivering mail, she encounters a massive dog and his surly owner. Living in her sister and brother-in-law’s garage apartment, she wants the wonderful worlds portrayed in Hallmark Christmas movies.

The author builds a story filled with secrets, dreams, dogs, and more. Both Amelia and Rayce find themselves searching for God’s purpose for their lives and their soulmate.

Their family and friends add dimension to the story, and the two dogs, Porter and Precious, provide some comic relief.

So, if you want a book that combines Christian Contemporary Romance, Christmas Fiction, and Southern Fiction, check out A Canine Christmas by Jennifer Sienes. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Anna Krug]

Amelia is a mail carrier with a fear of dogs, who is considering becoming a private investigator.
Rayce Jasper has just inherited his grandfather’s farm, which has been vacant a few years. He doesn’t think small town life is for him.
When Amelia delivers a package to Rayce, she meets Porter, a bigger dog than she is comfortable with.
She is intrigued by the Jasper family, and decides she will do some investigating of the family history.
Amelia’s niece Janie meets Rayce at the library and they bond due to their love of canines.
Rayce and Amelia form a partnership where he will help train a puppy as a Christmas gift for Janie, and Amelia will help sort out grandfather’s belongings.
But then, he discovers she has deceived him. What has she done? Can they find a way through the problem? Can they find God’s will for their lives?

[Amy]

A Canine Christmas is another installment from Jennifer Sienes' The Bedford County Series. Even though it is part of a series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I have enjoyed the previous releases of this collection and absolutely adored this one. Rayce and Amelia's interactions were so sweet. Throwing in a fun canine in the mix made for some entertainment. An overall heartwarming and inspiring story.



I found A Canine Christmas to be a five star read. Readers who love to read clean fiction set during the most magical time of the year will not want to miss out on it. As always, I look forward to more books to come from The Bedford County Series.



I received a digital copy of Jennifer Sienes' A Canine Christmas from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Lisa]

This is another beautifully written novella by Jennifer Sienes! This story has a bit of everything from romance to adventure. Add a canine, deception and prayer for a well rounded enjoyable read.

I love how the personality of this author comes through on the pages with faith in God, love of animals and a forgiving heart.

I loved the characters and how they evolved fluidly in a short amount of time.

I’m looking forward to more by this wonderful author!

I was given a complimentary copy. My opinion is my own.

[Holly Bleggi]

I thought this was a cute story. I liked how Amelia struggled to figure out where she fit in because she kept comparing herself to others. I loved that by the end of the book she realized that she didn’t have to be like others and could contribute something special to the world around her. I also liked how her sleuthing helped Rayce to finally be willing to figure out why his grandfather put distance between them and helped him find healing and forgiveness. I also liked how the dogs helped to bring Amelia and Rayce together. I thought this was a sweet Christmas story and really enjoyed it.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Carol Keen]

I liked this book and I am glad it's part of a series. It's a faith-filled Hallmark-feeling story with a fantastic dog—I love that so much! This story shows the impact(s) of misunderstandings, and I thought it was done rather well. I absolutely loved the dogs and the characters.

Thanks to Celebrate Lit for my digital copy of this book. This review is mine; a positive review is never required.

[Donna]

This novella by Jennifer Sienes has her signature writing style with good Christian values, multiple story lines, believable characters, romance, mystery, and of course some humor and witty comments. Jennifer is so good at weaving a story that keeps the reader's interest through to the end.

Amelia is known for her impulsiveness and too often she speaks or acts without thinking first. This results in hurt and anger towards her and leaves her embarrassed and having to apologize. In trying to find her purpose she has been skipping from one interest to another, the latest being the desire to be a private investigator. When she hears about a death at the Jasper farm years ago she decides it would be a good test case to see if she's got what it takes to be a PI. Is that even possible considering her impulsive nature?

Rayce Jasper inherited his grandfather's house and intends to fix it up to sell. He has carried a hurt and anger towards his grandfather for years after his grandfather cut all communication. No one ever found out why his grandfather pushed everyone away. Will he learn more about his grandfather while cleaning the house and finally learn why he stopped commuicating with the family?

As Amelia and Rayce get to know each other, what will happen when Rayce finds out about Amelia's sleuthing and digging into his family's history? Can they get past the deceit and hurt? Will Amelia find her true purpose if being a PI doesn't work out? I highly recommend reading this latest story from Jennifer Sienes for all the answers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

[Debbie]

A Canine Christmas" by Jennifer Sienes is a cute cozy and clean love story. It has a mail lady and a big dog and a new neighbor in town. if a reader wants to get started on holiday reading then this would be a good one to start with.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate and Celebrate

[Deanna Mosier]

Sweet romance - fun story

I enjoyed this sweet faith-filled romance and the pet dogs that brought the two together. First book by this author, and I would enjoy reading more.