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The Buchanons #2
The Christmas Family
Contractor Brady Buchanon can't wait to surprise single mom Abby Webster with his company's Christmas home makeover prize. But once he does, the struggling waitress turns him down flat! Raised in foster care, Abby won't accept charity. Yet when her dilapidated porch almost injures her daughter, Abby finally agrees to Brady's offer. As the hardworking bachelor pushes to finish the house in time for Christmas, he starts falling for Abby and her little girl. With the holidays in sight, Brady wonders if Abby will not only accept her beautiful new home, but also his wish to make her his wife…
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 20, 2015
49 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Linda Goodnight
223 books522 followersNY Times and USA Bestseller, Linda Goodnight writes novels of faith and family that point to hope through Christ. Her emotional stories have won the RITA , the Carol, the Reviewer’s Choice, and numerous other industry awards. Her two great passions are faith in Jesus and her large extended family. (And pie. she loves pie.)
Readers may connect with Linda through her website at www.lindagoodnight.com or on Facebook.
Readers may connect with Linda through her website at www.lindagoodnight.com or on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 8, 2018
The Christmas Family
By Linda Goodnight.
Picked this book up for a little Christmas reading and was so happy I did. This is a sweet and quick read . What a beautiful story it turned out to be. Even though this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone. Linda Goodnight has given us a well written ,heartwarming story full of amazing characters. I fell in total love with the sweet little girl. Her description of all the characters makes it easy to visualize them along with Vivid descriptive scenes. This is the perfect Christmas romance to put some joy in your heart. The characters are believable and engaging. It's easy to get invested in their story. Now know you sure can and should read this book any time of the year...not just around Christmas time. Christmas wishes do come true when you believe enough to try your best. Everyone deserves a shot at happiness.
I really enjoyed the story and I definitely recommend it. Kept me interested in it right to the end. I would like to read more of this series!
By Linda Goodnight.
Picked this book up for a little Christmas reading and was so happy I did. This is a sweet and quick read . What a beautiful story it turned out to be. Even though this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone. Linda Goodnight has given us a well written ,heartwarming story full of amazing characters. I fell in total love with the sweet little girl. Her description of all the characters makes it easy to visualize them along with Vivid descriptive scenes. This is the perfect Christmas romance to put some joy in your heart. The characters are believable and engaging. It's easy to get invested in their story. Now know you sure can and should read this book any time of the year...not just around Christmas time. Christmas wishes do come true when you believe enough to try your best. Everyone deserves a shot at happiness.
I really enjoyed the story and I definitely recommend it. Kept me interested in it right to the end. I would like to read more of this series!
September 3, 2015
The Christmas Family is by Linda Goodnight. It is a Harlequin inspirational romance. It is one of The Buchanon’s series. The characters are realistic and well developed. This novel deals with acceptance of spinal bifida children as well as acceptance regardless of family background or monetary situations. It indirectly deals with the cost of vandalism on businesses.
Abby Webster was the single mother of a child with spinal bifida. Luckily, Lila’s problem was towards her lower back so she had full control of her facilities above her waist and partial control below. She used a walker to get around unless she crawled. Lila was only four years old; but she had a mind of her own. Abby tried her best to make a good life for Lila in spite of the heavy load of medical expenses following her. She was working as a waitress and had even been able to purchase a house for them, although it wasn’t much of a house but more of a wreck. She planned on fixing it up as soon as she was able. She was determined not to get too close to people because she had found that everyone she loved proved to not be worthy of that love, wanted something in return, or left her. She had Lila and that was enough.
Brady Buchanon was a contractor and the COO of Buchanon Built Constructions. His brothers and sisters worked for the company their Dad, Don, owned. For some reason, when anything went awry, Don blamed Brady. Don had given Brady the job of COO because Don managed to upset the vendors they dealt with due to his harshness. However, in spite of problems, Brady had managed to get all the projects done on time. Now they were working on several jobs which kept their workmen on their toes. They could even hire more to help out if Don would okay it. Now it was time for Brady’s Christmas House makeover. Each year, to pay a little back to the community, Brady and his brothers and other workmen would select a home in the community that needed a makeover and would do the work on their own time and have the house in top condition by Christmas. Today, Brady was headed over to notify the homeowner that his/her house had been selected this year. He was headed to Abby Webster’s house to be there when she was home from work. When he and his brother Dawson presented the idea to Abby, she turned them down. What? Someone turned the Buchanon’s down for a house makeover? The idea was inconceivable to Brady and he didn’t understand nor would he give up.
Will Abby allow Brady to redo her house? Where would she and Lila live if it was to be renovated? Money might not be a problem for Brady but it was for Abby. What did he want in return? Could she believe his promises?
This novel is very good and has a lot more to it than a romance or even renovating a house. It was very easy reading and could be read quickly.
Abby Webster was the single mother of a child with spinal bifida. Luckily, Lila’s problem was towards her lower back so she had full control of her facilities above her waist and partial control below. She used a walker to get around unless she crawled. Lila was only four years old; but she had a mind of her own. Abby tried her best to make a good life for Lila in spite of the heavy load of medical expenses following her. She was working as a waitress and had even been able to purchase a house for them, although it wasn’t much of a house but more of a wreck. She planned on fixing it up as soon as she was able. She was determined not to get too close to people because she had found that everyone she loved proved to not be worthy of that love, wanted something in return, or left her. She had Lila and that was enough.
Brady Buchanon was a contractor and the COO of Buchanon Built Constructions. His brothers and sisters worked for the company their Dad, Don, owned. For some reason, when anything went awry, Don blamed Brady. Don had given Brady the job of COO because Don managed to upset the vendors they dealt with due to his harshness. However, in spite of problems, Brady had managed to get all the projects done on time. Now they were working on several jobs which kept their workmen on their toes. They could even hire more to help out if Don would okay it. Now it was time for Brady’s Christmas House makeover. Each year, to pay a little back to the community, Brady and his brothers and other workmen would select a home in the community that needed a makeover and would do the work on their own time and have the house in top condition by Christmas. Today, Brady was headed over to notify the homeowner that his/her house had been selected this year. He was headed to Abby Webster’s house to be there when she was home from work. When he and his brother Dawson presented the idea to Abby, she turned them down. What? Someone turned the Buchanon’s down for a house makeover? The idea was inconceivable to Brady and he didn’t understand nor would he give up.
Will Abby allow Brady to redo her house? Where would she and Lila live if it was to be renovated? Money might not be a problem for Brady but it was for Abby. What did he want in return? Could she believe his promises?
This novel is very good and has a lot more to it than a romance or even renovating a house. It was very easy reading and could be read quickly.
November 21, 2015
Story 3.5 Christmas, the spirit of giving and of receiving. Pride sometimes is all you have but it also can stop you from having something wonderful.
Sweet family dynamics, you know those home giveaway shows well it's a take on that. On a truly strong independent woman raising a handicap child. Heart warming Christmas tale.
Sweet family dynamics, you know those home giveaway shows well it's a take on that. On a truly strong independent woman raising a handicap child. Heart warming Christmas tale.
March 16, 2021
Truly one of the best books I ever read....compassion, inspirational and pure kindness..an amazing Christen love story of true happiness!
December 31, 2021
A beautiful romance between Brady Buchanon and Abby Webster, single mom of a special needs daughter. As Abby is given the gift of a home makeover by Brady’s Construction company, she admits to herself that she kind of has a crush on Brady (I confess - so did I)! As their story unfolds, little Lila and Brady’s huge family and lots of prayers bring these two together in spite of all of their doubts. It’s a quick read but so entertaining!
May 2, 2025
About on par for a Love Inspired book. A friend (MH) sent me this book in a box of books. I've read books by Linda Goodnight before and she writes a decent story.
I liked that Brady gives back by doing a project for someone in the community each year. I didn't like that it caused him and his dad to quarrel.
In the end, the relationship feels rushed to me.
I liked that Brady gives back by doing a project for someone in the community each year. I didn't like that it caused him and his dad to quarrel.
In the end, the relationship feels rushed to me.
April 30, 2023
I like this author
I have read many books by Linda Goodnight. The people are interesting . there is some humor. What I noticed in this book was a lot of repeating of the character issues.
I have read many books by Linda Goodnight. The people are interesting . there is some humor. What I noticed in this book was a lot of repeating of the character issues.
December 10, 2017
a sweet and quick holiday read
December 28, 2018
This book was a wonderful Christmas read. I enjoyed meeting all the characters and will definitely recommend this book.
December 9, 2021
Guess I need to read #3 to find out who the vandal is?
November 9, 2022
Brady seems too good to be true! I loved his heart for Christmas and providing improved homes to those in need. He's determined to help Abby when he learns of the accessible needs her daughter has for their home. Moving Abby in with his parents during construction gives her a look into his family with all their flaws and blessings. Their falling in love felt natural and sweet, and despite a few rocky patches, I loved their happily ever after. The subplot of vandalism on Buchanan properties continues as it has through the other books in the series and I can't wait to read the final book to learn the outcome of that mystery.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
October 4, 2015
"3 out of 5 stars, Abby has always been the “girl from the wrong side of the tracks” but after growing up that way, she has come to accept it and make the best out of her circumstances. Especially since it’s only her and her four-year-old daughter Lila, who has special needs as she’s been diagnosed with spina bifida, Abby does what she can and it appears as if she’s succeeding. However, everyone needs a little help now and then, but though Abby needs the help, she isn’t one to ask for it or accept it. Therefore, when Brady stops by her home to announce she’s the winner of his annual Christmas home remodel she declines, yet after she realizes how beneficial it would be for her daughter she reluctantly accepts. As her new house comes together, Abby and Lila become embroiled into Brady’s life and his family, so much so that by the time her house is completed she’s hoping for more between them. Yet, fate has a way stepping in. Will Abby step back when the going gets tough, or will she stick through the long haul?
While I liked the plot and characters, I found this novel to be very slow-paced and more about Abby finding her faith than about the romance between Abby and Brady. Though I usually have no problem with “religious”/faith-based romance novels, this one was a little too light on the romance for me to enjoy it as I’d have liked. Nevertheless, Abby and Brady were a cute pair. Then with Lila as the adorable angel on top of the Christmas tree..."
Read more of this review and FOUR TEASERS here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2015/10/made-grade-buchanons-series-book-2.html
While I liked the plot and characters, I found this novel to be very slow-paced and more about Abby finding her faith than about the romance between Abby and Brady. Though I usually have no problem with “religious”/faith-based romance novels, this one was a little too light on the romance for me to enjoy it as I’d have liked. Nevertheless, Abby and Brady were a cute pair. Then with Lila as the adorable angel on top of the Christmas tree..."
Read more of this review and FOUR TEASERS here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2015/10/made-grade-buchanons-series-book-2.html
October 24, 2015
A heartwarming and delightful story about the meaning of Christmas, and the importance of a family and support around us.
There's so much to like in this story, first the Buchanon family, the support they give to each other, their generosity and kindness is admirable.
Lila, Abby's daughter, is the little angel, and a sunlight to anyone around her. Her sweet spirit, and happy smiles, how she endures all that she has to because of her disability. I love her. It's not possible not to.
Abby might come off as a stubborn, prideful, and too independent, but she has a good reason, her childhood, to be the way she is and not to trust people around her. She works so hard to provide to Lila, and to be the best mom she can be. With everything she has gone through, no wonder if she has some self esteem issues.
Brady has so much on his plate, helping to run the family company, the recent vandalism on the job sites, but he loves Christmas, and his favorite thing is the makeover. This year, it's different than before, it is personal, and there's something about Abby and Lila, that he just can't stay away from them.
This story hit me straight to the heart, it has so much warmth, kindness, and loving care for each other in it. It is the perfect Christmas story, with the reason for the season highlighted, and made clear. I liked how the story unfolded over time, nothing happened too fast, yet, it still didn't seem to move slowly. It puts a smile on my face, and gave all warm and fuzzy feelings, make me look forward to the holidays coming up. Inspiring story filled with joy!
~ Five Spoons
There's so much to like in this story, first the Buchanon family, the support they give to each other, their generosity and kindness is admirable.
Lila, Abby's daughter, is the little angel, and a sunlight to anyone around her. Her sweet spirit, and happy smiles, how she endures all that she has to because of her disability. I love her. It's not possible not to.
Abby might come off as a stubborn, prideful, and too independent, but she has a good reason, her childhood, to be the way she is and not to trust people around her. She works so hard to provide to Lila, and to be the best mom she can be. With everything she has gone through, no wonder if she has some self esteem issues.
Brady has so much on his plate, helping to run the family company, the recent vandalism on the job sites, but he loves Christmas, and his favorite thing is the makeover. This year, it's different than before, it is personal, and there's something about Abby and Lila, that he just can't stay away from them.
This story hit me straight to the heart, it has so much warmth, kindness, and loving care for each other in it. It is the perfect Christmas story, with the reason for the season highlighted, and made clear. I liked how the story unfolded over time, nothing happened too fast, yet, it still didn't seem to move slowly. It puts a smile on my face, and gave all warm and fuzzy feelings, make me look forward to the holidays coming up. Inspiring story filled with joy!
~ Five Spoons
December 24, 2015
4 STARS
I can see both points a view of the main characters. It is so meaningful and fun to help others especially at Christmas. It is also hard to accept help but easier to do for your children.
Contractor Brady Buchanon is always excited to be able to help one family at Christmas with remolding a home for them.
Abby Webster is proud and doesn't want pity. She is a struggling mother with a disabled child. She does the best she can as a waitress with lots of medical bills. She was raised in foster care and has no family to turn too. No one to trust. But for Lila she can swallow her pride.
Lila is cute four year old. She has a disability. She walks a little with braces, walker or wheelchair.
Her house is not wheelchair accessibility. Which hinders her to be more independent. Right now her mom can lift her into the house. Lila loves to draw angels and share them.
When Abby is carrying her into the house the porch gives in on her. So she does call Brady for help.
Here is a family that works, plays together. They have their problems but reach out to others and welcome Abby and Lila into their home and hearts.
The setting for this book is Texoma. A swath of land along the Red River that joins Texas and Oklahoma. Small town winter.
This makes a good Christmas read. What Christmas should be about. The Savior birth and helping each other, love and family.
I was given this ebook to read by Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give a honest review of The Christmas Family.
November 2, 2015
Abby is a single mother doing what she can for her special needs child. Money is worn thing, her house is slowly falling apart but at least she's got things in a decent place. Brady Buchanon is known for his family construction business and runs a christmas makeover, This year Abby is selected for the makeover. Little did he expect was for her to reject his offer but he knows more then anything that she is a women who deserves this makeover most.
I loved how Abby was the type of women to work for what she got and let her past make her into a better person to not depend on anyone. I loved watching the relationship that formed between Abby and Brady. I loved his family as well making Abby and her daughter feel loved and quite at home. I loved that they were accepting towards her daughters special ability. I loved that there was that there was a bit of drama and I'm now curious more about who is the trouble makers that were causing Brady and his family's construction company grief. Overall I liked this book a sweet little wintry/Christmas book and prefect for the upcoming holidays. I would put this in the TBR list if I were you your not going to want to miss it.
I loved how Abby was the type of women to work for what she got and let her past make her into a better person to not depend on anyone. I loved watching the relationship that formed between Abby and Brady. I loved his family as well making Abby and her daughter feel loved and quite at home. I loved that they were accepting towards her daughters special ability. I loved that there was that there was a bit of drama and I'm now curious more about who is the trouble makers that were causing Brady and his family's construction company grief. Overall I liked this book a sweet little wintry/Christmas book and prefect for the upcoming holidays. I would put this in the TBR list if I were you your not going to want to miss it.
November 27, 2015
The Christmas Family "The Buchanons" Series. Dan Buchanon's family owns a construction company. They are kept very busy. Someone has been vandalizing the construction sites before the homes are finished. Brady Buchanon is in charge of keeping the construction up to date. Plus at Christmas he picks a family to remodel their home free of charge to the family he picks. People from the town volunteer material and their time for the family that is picked. This Christmas he picks Abby Webster and her four year old daughter Lila. Lila is a special needs child. Lila charms all the Buchanons. Abby agrees to the new home. Before they move in someone sets fire to the home. Brady falls for Abby, but Abby don't trust any one. Lila keeps drawing pictures for Brady. Lila stole Brady's heart. A very nice romance story.
October 14, 2015
A sweet happily ever after. I love Lila. She makes the whole novel. Abby (her mom) is lovely, self-sufficient and insecure because of her childhood, Brady is a man who loves giving. The three come together in a holiday tale.
Brady's family is a fabulous bunch with the exception of the Dad. I must confess I'm a little distressed by Brady and his Dad's relationship. I was somewhat appeased that it is improving, but it seems almost toxic.
While I like the premise of the story, I found it a little slow for me. I like this enough to be interested in what happens to the family in the future. Stay tuned for the rest of the family's adventures.
Rating: 3.5
Content: Clean, kissing
Source: Netgalley
Brady's family is a fabulous bunch with the exception of the Dad. I must confess I'm a little distressed by Brady and his Dad's relationship. I was somewhat appeased that it is improving, but it seems almost toxic.
While I like the premise of the story, I found it a little slow for me. I like this enough to be interested in what happens to the family in the future. Stay tuned for the rest of the family's adventures.
Rating: 3.5
Content: Clean, kissing
Source: Netgalley
October 26, 2015
Linda Goodnight's inspiring story has arrived just in time for the giving season. An act of kindness gives two people a chance to create memories, find love and a reason to believe in miracles. Abby has not has an easy time in her life. Pride, determination and hard work are the factors she has lived by for most of her life. A surprise gift comes at just the right time to help get her back on her feet and give her the family she also wished for but never thought she would get. I received an ARC of The Christmas Family by Linda Goodnight in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2015
I enjoyed this book, but all threw the book i kept thinking that i has visited these people before, The first book in the series was written a year ago. I like the Buchanons and hope that it is not another year before the next book comes out.
Abby is very independent and Brady just wants to help her. Lila is disabled and she steals the book. She is just adorable and you will love her by the 2nd chapter.
Abby is very independent and Brady just wants to help her. Lila is disabled and she steals the book. She is just adorable and you will love her by the 2nd chapter.
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January 12, 2016"The second in the Buchanons series is a beautiful story that will surely leave readers feeling the holiday spirit. Difficulty accepting help is relatable for many, as is trusting God with something that is beyond our own vision" (RT Book Reviews, 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK!).
Miniseries: The Buchanons
Miniseries: The Buchanons
September 9, 2016
A wonderful Christmas story. The Christmas Family is a sweet, beautiful, and heartwarming read. Brady and Abby were perfect for each other. Lila, Abby's little girl, made the story perfect. She is such a brave little girl. This book definitely pulls at your heart strings. Even so, it is a great read that you do not want to miss!
Read
February 11, 2016What a precious story - Abby was a mom who would do anything for her special needs daughter and Brady was a guy who wanted to be a part of their story. She was tough due to life's bruising, but Brady was able to show her that not everyone is going to leave.
October 12, 2015
I really liked this story. It was pretty fast read to me.
As you read on you can't help but to fall in love with the character, especially Lila, such an adorable kid.
As you read on you can't help but to fall in love with the character, especially Lila, such an adorable kid.
Read
January 12, 2016received 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews
Miniseries: The Buchanons
Miniseries: The Buchanons
November 28, 2015
A wonderful Christmas story.
December 22, 2015
This is a very moving story. It brought tears to my eyes. It's a heartwarming story.I love it1
August 19, 2016
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14157591
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/14157591
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews