An Orphan's Christmas Wish

by Rachel Wesson

An Orphan’s Christmas Wish
The Orphanage Chronicles, Book 3

In the summer of 1937, change is in the air at Hope House orphanage in Delgany, Virginia. Caretaker Lauren Greenwood has held the home together through storms of loss and hardship, but when an unexpected telegram arrives, the future begins to shift once more.

Edward Belmont brings news that will test their resolve and deepen their connection. As whispers of war stir across the ocean and prejudice grows closer to home, Edward and Lauren must decide what sacrifices they are willing to make for each other and for the children who depend on them.

A long-awaited adoption brings unexpected joy, and love quietly grows between two people who have always put others first. But when a mother once thought lost returns, two wounded children must find their way to forgiveness. Christmas may be their last chance to hold onto hope and the home they have all built together.

Tender, uplifting, and rich with heart, An Orphan’s Christmas Wish is a moving conclusion to the Delgany series. It is a story of chosen family, quiet courage, and the healing power of love.

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2025

About the author

Rachel Wesson was born in Kilkenny, Ireland but considers herself to be from the capital, Dublin as that's where she spent most of her life. Her dad brought Rachel and her two sisters out every Saturday to give their mother a break. He took them to the library and for ice-cream after. It took a long time for her sisters to forgive her for the hours she spent choosing her books!
She grew up driving everyone nuts asking them questions about what they did during the War or what side they were on in the 1916 rising etc. Finally her Granny told her to write her stories down so people would get the pleasure of reading them. In fact what Granny meant was everyone would get some peace while Rachel was busy writing!
When not writing, or annoying relatives, Rachel was reading. Her report cards from school commented on her love of reading especially when she should have been learning. Seems you can't read Great Expectations in Maths. After a doomed love affair and an unpleasant bank raid during which she defended herself with a tea tray, she headed to London for a couple of years. (There is a reason she doesn't write romance!). She never intended staying but a chance meeting with the man of her dreams put paid to any return to Ireland. Having spent most of her career in the City, she decided something was missing. Working in the City is great but it's a young person's dream. Having three children you never see isn't good for anyone. So she packed in the job and started writing. Thanks to her amazing readers, that writing turned into a career far more exciting and rewarding than any other.
Rachel lives in Surrey with her husband and three children, two boys and a girl. When not reading, writing or watching films for "research" purposes, Rachel likes to hang out with her family. She also travels regularly back home - in fact she should have shares in BA and Aerlingus.

Reviews

[Lorin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I really loved reading all of the books in this really wonderful series!

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 and probably the final book in this series. So much is happening in Hope House as War is going on across the Atlantic Ocean in Europe, especially Germany. Here in America, there are hostilities toward foreigners as no one really understood how drastic it had become overseas. When German speaking children arrived at the orphanage, townspeople were scared and worried there were spies among them. However, there are happy moments as two children were adopted by a lady in town and brought total happiness to her home. It is the harshest of times but often the happiest of times. As children leave for opportunities, others arrive. Those that leave still belong to the Hope House family. The saying is, "The belonging stays." Everyone likes that. It is family and the welcome mat is always there. Thanks for a great storyline. It is well written, and I loved it.

[Dawn Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet!

A nice Christmas ending as he world continues towards WWII. But we can enjoy the sweet. I am so glad they got married!

[Nicole Simpkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

an incredible series to read!

The only bad thing about this series…is waiting for the next book! What a world at Hope House!!! Highly recommend this to all

[Karol L. Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another special story of love

Amazing story showing love, caring, and sacrifice can make a home. Oh that Lauren’s love and acceptance would be modeled in everywhere.

[Sally Hogston]

Another excellent book by Rachel Wesson. Very exciting and lovely family friendly book

[Debbie Novellino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and endearing

Love the story line!! Very sweet, heart felt, and keeps you engaged with all the characters...great read and great series