Deborah Summers has waited five years and prayed for Curt Warren to return to Goldendale, Washington, passing up another marriage proposal by believing in her first love. When tragedy finally brings him home, will a rift with his father drive him away too quickly?
Miralee Ferrell and her husband, Allen, live on eleven acres in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where they love to garden, play with their dogs, take walks, and visit their grown children. She is also able to combine two other passions—horseback riding and spending time with her married daughter—since she lives nearby--and they often ride together on the wooded trails near their home.
Ironically, Miralee, now the author of over twenty books, with many more on the way, never had a burning desire to write—at least more than her own memoirs for her children. So she was shocked when God called her to start writing after she turned fifty. To Miralee, writing is a ministry that she hopes will impact hearts, and she anticipates how God will use each of her books to bless and change lives.
A sweet short story on how when the heart really loves someone, time doesn’t make much of a difference. We should be quick to forgive and not let unforgiveness stand in our way. Only God knows what he has in store for us and He’s forgiven us too many times to count. In Nativity Bride Curt lets his fathers advice given out of hurt cause him to leave the only place he’s ever known and the girl he loves. Deborah was willing to wait for him, and has turned down proposals because she still cares too much about him. When tragedy brings Curt home, will they see what they had is still there? Can Deborah trust him? Nativity Bride is book number seven in the 12 Brides of Christmas series. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a quick happy ending. I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing in return for my honest option. All opinions expressed are my own.
I just love Christmas stories. This novella was really great. I loved the characters. Deborah and Curt have loved each other for a long time. Curt's father is not happy with his choices in life and tells him if he can't work the farm then he needed to leave and not comeback. He didn't think Curt would ever be able to provide a living for a wife or family with his choice of working as a woodworker. Sarah Curt's mother dies and he comes home to pay his respects. Deborah is there to help clean the place and comes upon some very special things. Can through the things she has found and knows change things between the father and son? Very good story.
Even though I usually save Christmas themed books until after Thanksgiving, I recently read The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell. This little story was released just yesterday as an ebook, the seventh of twelve novellas, all pinned by different authors. I am glad I read it now as it actually set a nice mood for the Thanksgiving season. Many elements of real life are woven into a tender, moving story of two hurt and disappointed people, Deborah and Curt, who wonder how life could have been different under another scenario.
Descriptive words such as forgiveness, acceptance, selfishness, resolution and trust find places to flourish in the lives of these quite plausible people and I wanted to spend so much more time with them in 1875's Washington state. Both Deborah and Curt dealt with the affects of an unexpected decision that dramatically changed the lives they had anticipated and dreamed about. And, then, there's a secret - how does that change lives? Or, does it?
I LOVED this little wonderfully well-written story from Miralee 's creative and talented pen. Even in a novella of this short length, Miralee writes lovingly of people dealing with issues, sometimes out of their control, and brings about a common sense resolution that seems to flow easily to a natural ending. Miralee frequently tackles adverse human conditions as only those with her counseling experience can do. the difference in the stories that she writes is that she can, and she does, tie-up all the various factors into a satisfying ending. And, always the enduring thread of God's amazing grace shines in subtle yet glimmering grace.
I highly recommend this ebook. So much so that I made a concerted effort to find a print copy of the paperback that includes this story along with three other novellas. I always find Miralee's books to be structured in a smooth, flowing writing style, interesting, historically accurate and entertaining. Her 'people' are always beautifully well-developed characters who each find a place in my heart. I am sad when the story ends as I am never ready to leave those new folks in my life!
I received an ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review which I have now posted!
The Nativity Bride Novella****, part of the 12 Brides of Christmas Novellas by Miralee Ferrell
It's been five long years since Curt Warren left Goldendale, Washington, taking Deborah Summer's heart with him. While caring for her ill mother, Deborah prays and hopes he will return and then they can finally marry. But what if he doesn't return, doesn't love her anymore?
Curt left Goldendale long ago after another argument with his father. He had planned to never return, even for Deborah. However, plans change when he learns of a tragedy at home. Will his father allow him to stay at his home? Will he even talk to him? Can they patch up their disagreements before he leaves again or forever remain estranged? While there unknown secrets come to light. Will these revealed secrets cause further estrangements or heal their hearts?
This is a sweet novella. Even though it is short, the characters draw you into the story. Deborah and Curt face difficult challenges and hard decisions with outcomes that affect them all. Touches on love, faith, estrangements, hope, forgiveness and more.
~~I received an e-copy of this novella from the author for my honest review~~
The Nativity Bride ( The Twelve Brides of Christmas Book 7) By; Miralee Ferrell This is the Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell. Each of these books can be read alone. She weaves a novella of love, broken dreams, and answered prayers. This is Deborah Summers and Curt Warren's novella. Deborah has been in love with Curt forever. I love these two characters. Curt up and left five years ago and Deborah has never given up. Now after five years Curt has returned home after a crises in the family. Deborah and Curt see each other at his fathers house. Curt left home because him and his father did not get alone. His father did not approve of the job that he wanted to go into. How will Curt's father take him coming back home, and will he stay this time or leave again? Can his father and him forget the pass and start over? What will happen between Deborah and Curt ? Will they have a second chance ? Will they listen to God and renew their hearts. I don't want to give to much away so you will need to read The Nativity Bride to find out more about these two people and their families.. So get your copy today. I was given an ebook for my honest review , which I have given.
Leaving Goldendale, Washington at eighteen to pursue a career in woodworking against his father’s wishes, Curt Warren left behind the young girl he loved. Now, five years later, his relationship with his father has not improved, and his prospects in his hometown seem bleak. He still holds love in his heart for Deborah Summers, but her own situation holds her in Goldendale as much as Curt’s keeps him away. Will their love find a way in the season of miracles, or does God have other plans?
In this short, sweet Christian historical romance novella, Miralee Ferrell crafts a compelling, heartfelt story of young love and its obstacles. This tale transcends the confines of time, creating an ageless narrative full of love’s potential. Although a Christmas-themed story, this novella will warm readers’ hearts at any time of the year.
The Nativity Bride is an awesome novella. It's a beautiful story with such deep emotions that I could feel those same emotions. I was totally fascinated with this novella from the beginning and the author gives great details and a couple of surprises that makes this novella awesome. The descriptions of the characters are wonderful and they are an asset to the story. I love and thoroughly enjoyed reading The Nativity Bride. It's #7 from 12 Brides of Christmas and this novella is the first one I've read from this collection. I will be reading the other eleven, especially if they're as good as The Nativity Bride. I highly recommend reading The Nativity Bride this Christmas season and buy one for a love one or a friend. Share the joy and pleasure of this novella!
I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I loved The Nativity Bride! Set in Goldendale, Washington, in the fall of 1875, this holiday novella captivated me and warmed my heart. Deborah Summers and Curt Warren’s story was touching and tender and I would love to read more of these endearing characters.
Miralee Ferrell pens stories that you don’t want to end and characters you don’t want to let go of. The Nativity Bride is certainly no exception! A beautiful story of enduring love and the power of forgiveness, The Nativity Bride is a must read this holiday season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own and no monetary compensation was received.
This is a heartwarming and endearing Christmas novella. I especially enjoyed the depth of the story which is often difficult to find in the shorter length of a novella. The development in the lives of the characters was exceptional. Staying true to your heart, reconciliation, acceptance, and ministering to others in need are themes that you will find within the pages of this story. An electronic copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for my honest review.
Goldendale, Washington, Sept. 1875 Deborah Summers is 16. Her father died 10 years ago and her mother has been ill for many years. She is a good Christian girl who loves the Lord and takes care of her mama. She also loves her neighbor Curt Warren and has dreams of one day becoming his wife. Curt is 18, loves Deborah, and wants to work with wood but his father wants him to be a farmer. Jared Warren has run his own farm and helped to keep Deborah’s farm going all these years and expects his son to do the same. Curt does not revere God the way Deborah does and his father warns him he will break her heart. After heated words between he and his father, he chooses to set out on his own and make his own way, leaving all he loves behind. He ends up staying away 5 years. When he finally returns for his mother's funeral he is shocked to find out Deborah is still single. As they work together to clear out his mother's things over the course of a week they both admit their feelings for one another have never died and they will have to work through their emotions and hurts, as well as the anger Curt's father still has, to figure out the future. A pleasant read. Also found in the book Christmas Wedding Bell Brides with 3 other novellas
Title: The Nativity Bride Author: Miralee Ferrell Series: The 12 Brides of Christmas, 7 Format: ebook, bind-up Length: 42 pages Rating: 2 stars
Synopsis: Deborah Summers has waited five years and prayed for Curt Warren to return to Goldendale, Washington, passing up another marriage proposal by believing in her first love. When tragedy finally brings him home, will a rift with his father drive him away too quickly?
Favourite character: N/A Least favourite character: Jarrod Warren
Mini-review: I don't think this author's books are for me. This is third one I've read and the third one I haven't enjoyed. I'll try more but so far I'm not really impressed. Didn't help that a Goodreads friend spoiled part of it in her two sentence no spoiler warning review and the thing she gave away could've redeemed the book.
Rating: 5 Stars!! Review: This was my first time reading a Christmas Book by Miralee so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say this was such a prescious story to read about a Woman who waited 5 years to marry the man of her dreams while running a shop by selling Nativity Scenes.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Deborah was definately my favorite, not just because her name is the same as My Mama's but because she overcame a long hardship she'd been harboring for years.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in 1875 Goldendale, Washington especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a touching Christmas Novel!! Can't wait to read more by Miralee in the future!!
Deborah and Curt were teenagers in love but a decades old family hurt sends Curt running away. Following his dream to work with wood and make a living out of it, Curt apprentices far away. Five years later, he returns for his mother's funeral only to discover that Deborah is still unmarried. His father asks Deborah and her widowed mother to help him go through his wife's things and Curt offers to help, giving him and Deborah time together. Working through decades of stored personal items, they uncover the reason for all the old animosity that has torn Curt's family apart. This is wonderful little novella of patience, faithfulness, forgiveness, and love. I read it in about an hour and loved it.
Must read !!! The hurt of the ugly words we hear from loved ones leave their mark. The hurt takes form in the choices we make. The attitudes and behaviors reflect the pain we try to hide. When one is truly loved through the pain the peace can finally shine.
The Nativity Bride (The 12 Brides of Christmas, #7) by Miralee Ferrell – God is in the restoration business, and this is a sweet Christmas reunion story! Happy Holiday Reading!
Continuing with the 12 Brides of Christmas series, I have just finished reading The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell. This is the first thing I have read from this author and I have to say that I do enjoy her writing style very much.
In this story 16 year old Deborah is courting 18 year old Curt Warren. They are happily together and feeling that they plan to spend the rest of their lives together. Curt is contemplating his future and the fact that he does not want to continue to farm as his father has done throughout his life. He feels the talent of wood working driving him in a different direction. His father is very unhappy and Curt leaves home to apprentice in The Dalles as a woodworker despite his father's feelings and advice.
Five years pass and Deborah has had merely two letters from Curt. She has courted others but no one fills the hole in her heart. Curt returns after these 5 years and the feelings he once had for Deborah still remain. But after all this time, will Deborah have feelings for him? Deborah's mother is also a factor in their future as she has poor health and needs to be cared for by Deborah. As Deborah helps Mr. Warren, Curt's father, go through his wife's belongings after her death, she uncovers some items that hold the keys as to whether Curt and his father will ever reconcile. One of the items is a beautiful handmade nativity set.
This story was very uplifting and shows the importance of forgiveness in each of our lives. I will be watching for other works by this author.
I have received a ebook from the publisher for my honest review.
There are only two things Curt Warren wants to do--work with wood making beautiful furniture and marry the girl he loves. But his father has other plans for Curt's future and he feels his only option is to leave, leave his home and Deborah Summers behind. When tragedy strikes he returns with a new hope for a brighter future. Can he win back Deborah's heart and reconcile with his father?
This is a short story that only took a couple of hours to read but there are several things I love about it. It starts out when Deborah is sixteen and Curt is eighteen and makes the jump to five years later which I like because it gives a quick but thorough insight to the story. My favorite thing about this story is It's a story of hope and restoration. Not only has Curt removed himself from his earthly father but his Heavenly Father as well and it was wonderful to see the change in his entire relationship with both. Anyone can find a ray of hope through this story, a renewed zeal for God, family and love. I know I did. One thing I also love is Deborah's love and ministrations to her sick mother. She was a caregiver of sorts and anyone that is or has been a caregiver to a loved one will enjoy this aspect of the story. They have such a wonderful relationship! Also, it's an historical romance which automatically grabs my attention. I enjoyed it so much and I recommend it if you like a quick read. Lunch hour romance maybe? You bet!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review and no monetary compensation was received.
The Nativity Bride is book number seven in the 12 Brides of Christmas series. 18 year old Curt Warren is in love with 16 year old Deborah Summers and wants to ask her to marry him. Curt's father thinks he should take over the farm and work to provide a good living if he wants to marry Deborah and care for her ailing Mother. Curt wants to be a woodworker and thinks he can make a good living at it. An argument sends Curt off to start an apprenticeship in The Dalles in a town a good distance away. But first, he has to tell Deborah of his plans. He tells her it's for the best and not to wait for him. Curt feels he has to leave Deborah behind . When Curt returns home for his Mother's funeral he finds Deborah helping out in his fathers home. After talking to Curt, Deborah wonders if Curt has changed and could there still be something there between them? Deborah has waited five years and prayed for Curt to find his way back to her. Past hurts and a secret of his fathers is still causing a rift between Curt and his Father. Will a revealed secret cause further disappointments for Curt and Deborah or will a special handmade Nativity bring about a healing and a reconciliation in time for a special Christmas? I enjoyed this story and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a story of love, faith and a healing of hearts. I received this e-book as a gift from Barbour Publishing for my honest opinion which I have given.
Miralee Ferrell's novella, The Nativity Bride (The 12 Brides of Christmas Book 7), catches your heart and attention right from the first page. With the playful pillow fight of Deborah and Curt, you can feel that romance is in the air. Curt and Deborah are in love with each other and he has plans to spend the rest of his life with her.
Deborah lives on a farm with just herself and her ailing mother, and Curt lives on a farm nearby with his own father. Curt's father wants Curt to take over the family farm and follow in his footsteps as far as work and responsibility are concerned.
Curt has heart set on his making a life as a woodworker, but his father has made it very clear how much he disapproves of Curt's life choices. The words that his father speaks has struck his heart so deeply that he decides to leave town to go and make a living for himself, leaving Deborah heartbroken and full of so many unanswered questions.
When Curt returns five years later after tragedy hits his family, will she have those questions finally answered?
I started reading this book in the morning and finished it in one hour! I loved this novella, the story was written with issues that are so easy to relate to and also so current. As the characters each deal with their struggles you can feel their pain and even understand the reasons each of them react the way they do.
I know other readers will enjoy this novellas as much as I did!
Looking for a novella that is short, sweet and with a twist of romance? Maybe you're headed on the road or getting on the airplane for a flight to go visit some relatives for the upcoming holidays?
If so, The Nativity Bride is the perfect length story for your holiday travels that will make your heart soar and will have you flipping your kindle page by page to see what happens next between Deborah and Curt. This young couple is in love, when abruptly his father sends him away for five years Deborah is left broken hearted.
However, in the meantime both characters have to go through difficult things, one caring for an ill parent, another character working through their resentment towards their father for not taking on the family business.
Don't worry though, you'll get hooked and the pages will fly by when Curt returns five years later. Although you'll feel happy, I had mixed emotions for Deborah because of all the missed time the two could have had with one another, but then it gets interesting or does it?
The plot thickens though... Is it to late for Deborah's heart to be open again to love? Or will she be in love with someone else by the time Curtis is ready to go after her? The only way to know for sure what happens is to read "The Nativity Bride."
If you love Christmas books, you'll love this one! I highly recommend it!
My thanks to the author for the complimentary copy of The Nativity Bride. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder; right? Deborah Summer is about to find out, when her childhood sweetheart re-appears in time for his mother's funeral, after five longs year of absence. When Curt Warren had made a frantic visit to Deborah's home that last fateful evening, neither of them knew just how long their separation was going to last or what the consequences were going to be; especially when Curt had told her not to wait for him.
Curt Warren has returned home a changed man, thanks to the fine tutelage and spiritual mentoring of a man named Mr. Colson. If only he can convince his father of that and be allowed a second chance with Deborah. Time of is the essence; his father has only given him one week to remain in his home. And it seems Deborah doesn't trust him to stick around, either.
Things begin to change when Curt and Deborah work together to clean out the Warrens' attic and find a beautifully hand-carved nativity set among Mrs. Warren's belongings. Wanting to display it proudly in Curt's home, Deborah places the set on the mantel for everyone to see, not knowing that there is quite a story behind this beautiful collection of carvings. Perhaps this Christmas will be one that Curt and Deborah can never forget!
I received a copy of this novella from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Nativity Bride is a sweet, little novella. Deborah and Curt are obviously young and in love as the story begins. However, a rift with his father sends Curt packing and he stays away for five long years.
I was very impressed with the way the author began this story and was able to make me immediately interested in Deborah and Curt’s relationship. When the story picks up five years later, at Curt’s return, my heart aches for both of these characters and the time together they have missed. But, I also felt hopeful for the possibility of a future together for these two if only they can navigate through the feelings of hurt that Deborah carries with her, and the intense anger that Curt’s father still harbors toward him.
This little novella carries an important message about forgiveness, allowing God to provide the direction for your life, and the lasting power of true love.
My thanks to the author for the complimentary copy of The Nativity Bride. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Wow!! Miralee Ferrell's Christmas story started with a pillow fight and knocked me unto my reading backside and kept me there until the final sentence. There was something magical about this story of love promised; love lost;and a parent denying his child the all-important blessing and right to be his own person.
I loved the steadfast character of Deborah, whom we meet as a 16-year-old girl, caring for her sick mother. Five years later,single Deborah is still caring for her very ill mother, helping her erst-while lover Curt's father prepare for Curt's mother's funeral. I love how Deborah can sweetly stand up to Curt's father, yet not be mean or bitter. This is a very hard way for most people to react to those who are prickly!
I finished this book with the very sated feeling of, "I've just read a great book(though short),and now it is time to step back from reading for a few hours and savor this warm, fuzzy feeling." Great holiday reading!
I was provided this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The Nativity Bride ( The Twelve Brides of Christmas Book 7)
By; Miralee Ferrell
This is the Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell. Each of these books can be read alone. She weaves a novella of love, broken dreams, and answered prayers. Deborah and Curt novella. Deborah has love with Curt a long time .Curt up and left five years ago .but Deborah has never given up. Now after five years Curt has returned home .Curt left home because him and his father did not get alone. How will Curt's father take him coming back home, and will he stay this time or leave again. Will they listen to God and and try to get along .I don,t want to give to much away so you will need to read The Nativity Bride to find out more about these two people and their familie.and hopping there another part to this also
I was given an ebook for my review , which I have given.
Curt Warren leaves home at an early age to pursue a dream that he has had, one which his father despises. Curt does not want to hurt his father, but at the same time, he knows that he was not cut out to be a farmer. The one thing that hurt the most as well was leaving behind Deborah. Curt loves her more than he cares to admit, and wants to marry her, but his father has made it clear that she is too good for him.
Five years later Curt comes home for his mothers funeral, and meets up with Deborah again. He is surprised to find her unmarried, and seeming to return the same feelings he still has for her. But his father is still against the match, and Curt cant figure out why. Can Deborah and Curt find a way to still love each other after being apart for so long, and can Curt's father find the forgiveness he needs in his heart for his son?
My review for The Nativity Bride by Miralee Ferrell ( For inclusion in The Twelve Brides of Christmas collection) I always love to read a story that allows me to see into the heart and lives of the characters therein. Those that speak to my heart. I loved the era of the novel's setting. When respect and chivalry are expected character qualities. As very young adults the love Curt and Deborah share must be set aside for reasons seemingly justified by Curt's dad. But when Curt returns home, can the changes in his life and the one he loved 5 years ago be rekindled? Will forgiveness be given? This novella is very powerful. If you want to read a shorter story with punch this novella will not disappoint! I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
What a beautiful story of forgiveness and enduring love! Another great addition to the 12 Brides of Christmas series. Miralee tackles the issues of stubbornness, holding on to past wrongs and hurts and how it shapes our futures. After being gone for 5 years, Curt visits back home to find his childhood love still single. Deborah has dealt with Curt leaving but now wants to understand why he ever left. Curt has family issues to deal with and both need to forgive and clear the air because both their lives have changed. It ends so beautifully and completely that it leaves you smiling and wishing for more. The title of the book is the hidden surprise in the story – you will have to read it to find out! I received this book for an honest review.
Curt and his father disagree about what constitutes a "good living." His father believes farming is the only way to make a living, Curt left home following his dream of making a career as a wood craftsman. When he left home he left Deborah,the girl he has loved since they were kids. He comes home after receiving a letter that his mother has passed away. Arriving home he finds Deborah in his father's house cleaning it and making it ready for his mother's funeral. All of the feelings he had for Deborah resurfaces. This is a story full of secrets, and how those secrets can cause heartache, and dissension, but when the truth is revealed it brings restoration. I read this book in a day and loved every minute of it. Highly recommended!!
I really enjoyed this novella. It was one of the best I'd read from this series so far. I loved the characters and I loved the storyline. I wish the story had been longer though. This story definitely could have been turned into a full novel and I'm sure every part of it would have been amazing. What I really loved about this novella was that it was the most believable so far. The characters had known each other when they were younger so the story and their love for one another didn't seem as rushed or sudden as the other novellas I've read in this series so far have been. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella but I just wish it had been a whole novel since there was definitely enough detail to the characters and their lives to turn it into one.