The Most Wonderful Time of the Year: A Countdown to Christmas

by Ace Collins

For Christians worldwide, the month of December is filled with joy and wonder as we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth. There is no other time of the year that can compare to the Christmas season for both the young and young at heart.

From December to New Year’s Eve, reawaken the wonder, joy, and magic that is Christmas with daily scripture and inspirational readings of stories behind popular Christmas traditions, carols and movies. Enjoy a wealth of fun activities to help make the most of the season, including heartwarming holiday recipes and homemade gift ideas.

With this soon-to-be-cherished holiday devotional, best-selling author Ace Collins will capture your imagination and help to make each day of December more memorable and meaningful to you, and those you love, by shining a light on the real spirit of the season.

Genres: Christmas, Devotional, Nonfiction, Holiday, Religion, Christian Living

224 pages, Paperback

Published October 4, 2016

About the author

Citing his Arkansas heritage, Christy Award winner Ace Collins defines himself as a storyteller. In that capacity, Collins has authored more than eighty books for 25 different publishers that have sold more than 2.5 million copies. His catalog includes novels, biographies, children’s works as well as books on history, culture and faith. He has also been the featured speaker at the National Archives Distinguished Lecture Series, hosted a television special, been featured on every network morning TV show and does college basketball play-by-play. He is married to Kathy Collins, Chair of the Education Department at Ouachita Baptist University, and the couple has two grown sons. Collins lives in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

Reviews

[Karen R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you love Christmas like I do, but have a hard time staying focused on what the celebration is all about? All the flurry of activity that comes with it can really elevate stress levels, making it hard to hang onto the joy of the season. This book is a perfect solution for this problem. It is a combination of inspiration, traditions, songs and practical applications to help keep the focus on Christ in the season, starting with December 1st and going all the way to New Year's. Each day's entry is short, making it an easy fit into a morning or evening routine.
I loved reading the background of carols and traditions in Ace Collins' other books. The snippets of those books, plus the added Bible verses with a short application, delicious cookie recipes and craft ideas makes this a win-win, especially for busy moms looking for a few minutes to refresh and remember what is important. The devotions part is short and practical, not a heavy theological discussion, but something inspirational to think about.
Recommend! 4.5 stars

(An e-copy of the book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)

[Deb Haggerty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deb’s Dozen: Yuletide Brings Carols and Cookies and Cheer and Best Yet, Christ’s Birthday!

Ace Collins has penned yet another merry little Christmas book. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year: A Countdown to Christmas is a thirty-one-day devotional based on Christmas customs and Christmas carols. Ace adds in potential gifts to be given and yummy-sounding recipes.

While I knew the history of many of the carols quoted in the book, I did not know the history of other Christmas songs mentioned in the text. I wished for a way to see the text of those songs too but royalty standards for music precluded him sharing them. I will be looking them up on the Internet! For example, I did not know Willie Nelson had penned a song, “Pretty Paper,” akin to “Good King Wenceslas” until reading this book. Through many of the stories, Ace reminds us to always consider “the least of these” as we are celebrating the season. And to find out that Irving Berlin felt “White Christmas” was inadequate! Thank heavens for Bing Crosby’s hearing the song and loving the music so the Christmas favorite has endured through the years.

I’m also intrigued by the homemade Christmas gifts Ace gives directions on how to make at the end of each chapter. Some of them would be wonderful not only as gifts but for self-indulgent treats.

And the recipes—yum! I can’t wait to make the Snickerdoodles and Buttery Christmas Cookies.

This devotional has something for everyone. You’ll enjoy reading the book and rereading the book every Christmas season!

Ace Collins is a master storyteller whose stories span many genres from World War II (In the President’s Service series) to service dogs to Christmas carols to mysteries and suspense to biographies, et al. He and his wife, Kathy, live in Arkansas where he does play-by-play for Oachita College basketball games. He love antique cars and antique guitars. Learn more about Ace at AceCollins.com

I received this book from Ace as a present–no review of any kind was implied.

[Lisa Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

A daily read that I was enjoying so much I binge read it instead of reading one entry per day.

The format is the same for each day and each day begins with a scripture followed by a story relating to a Christmas tradition. Some traditions gave me a new perspective. I learned why we have Christmas trees, mistletoe, red and green, lights, etc. Then each day has a Christmas song written out along with a bit of history of who wrote the song and why. The day is followed up with a recipe to "pamper the one you love" with recipes for cookies, treats, candles, spa-like gifts, etc. I typically skipped that last part and then read on to the next day. I thoroughly enjoyed each day and was reminded throughout how special this time of year is for so many wonderful and traditional and spiritual reasons.

[Cheryl Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book this holiday season. Shares scripture and inspirational thought along with interesting tidbits of info and history behind some of our favorite Christmas carols, traditions, and movies. Also includes some recipes and ideas for making gifts. I’m more interested in the history and inspiration than the recipes, etc. :) Highly recommend.

[January Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely book that will become a Holiday tradition to read each year for you and your family.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is the perfect devotional for our family for this Advent season!  Each year we choose a plan for working our way through Advent.  One year we made our own Jesse tree and studied references to Jesus in his Old Testament family tree.  Another year we divided up the New Testament story and journaled it with words and drawings.
 
This year, though, we'll be working our way through with Ace Collins' new book, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.  I love the format of this book:  each day concludes a devotional reading with scripture, song lyrics and their backstory, and something to do, usually a recipe or crafty idea.  I love how a theme is woven through each day's story, making a strong point and forcing the reader to consider some aspect of this Christmas season in a new way.  Collins makes a strong case for joy and for remembering the reason for the season - but he goes deeper than that.

I love the way that Collins explains the story behind so many of our favorite traditions.  By bringing to the forefront the reason why we sing certain songs, decorate with red and green, and so much more, it refreshes the spirit and makes the seasonal work lighter.  Honestly, over the past few years I've come to dread certain aspects of my former-favorite traditions, only because they create so much work in such a short period of time; but knowing the reason behind so many of them makes me look forward to them again.  Many things I've heard before, of course, but somehow Collins puts a unique spin on them that makes the ideas seem fresh and new. 

While The Most Wonderful Time of the Year isn't specifically marketed for kids or for families, I think it will be perfect for mine.  The combination of history, scripture, and activity will be a great way for us to start our day during the Advent season.  I know that we won't be making all of the cookies that he shares, but the specialty recipes will be fun to read nonetheless, and it might inspire us to try some new ones, too.  With our kids now ages nine and eleven, they're old enough to understand the historical context and the scripture and to participate in the projects, too; in fact, they could do most of them independently.

If you, too, like to change up your devotional reading during Advent or just want to know more about the historical traditions connected with our faith, be sure to check out The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

I received a free copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity.  All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Christmas. The carols. The movies. The music. The feeling. Our family Christmas ornament exchange. Sometimes, though, I get so swept up in the season that I forget the reason for Christmas—the birth of Jesus Christ. Over the past few years, I've been more intentional about celebrating Advent, which has helped keep my focus on the true meaning of Christmas. One tool I plan to use this year is The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

This book is a 31-day devotional, spanning the month of December. Each day contains a devotional, a Christmas carol or hymn and the story behind it, and a recipe for a Christmas treat or homemade gift. I especially enjoyed learning the history of different carols; it's amazing how many songs we sing without actually understanding their meaning! (Look up "Good King Wenceslas" sometime. So fascinating!)

Though this is a Christmas devotional, Collins clearly ties together Christmas and Easter. I appreciate that he points people to the cross and Jesus' death and resurrection, giving the complete story. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is a book that I'm sure to pull out year after year, and I believe it will be a great addition to my Christmas celebration.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Nicki Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*My Thoughts*
We all do it. We get caught up in the lights. The trees. The stocking stuffers. Cookies. Holiday parties. Family Dinners. Ornaments. Fake Snow, inflatable snowmen, gifts. The list is endless the entire magical month of December. But sometimes we forget the reason it all started. The reason we're all here. That tiny baby we call our Savior so often is forgotten in the midst of all the busyness.

The Most Wonderful Time of The Year is the perfect book to help you remember! Filled with a wonderful devotion for every day of December, a Hymn and a story about it's history, and a recipe for a homemade treat or gift!
I loved the recipes and I cannot wait to continue the devotions! I'm diving into the Holidays with an amazing devotional, new recipes and gift ideas, and a better understanding of the hymns I'm singing. But most importantly, I'm remembering the true reason for the season. Are you?
_______________________________________________________

*My Rating*

I give The Most Wonderful Time of The Year by Ace Collins...










5 stars!!
_______________________________________________



*I received this book free of charge from the author.

[Beckie Burnham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Ace Collins’ latest book, The Most Wonderful Time of The Year. Billed as a devotional, I think it is so much more. Filled with heart-warming stories, thought-provoking devotions, interesting facts, and great recipes to fill the stomach and sooth the body, this book is a wonderful way to plunge you right into the Christmas spirit! And though it is especially meaningful for use during the month of December, it’s message and lessons will be remembered long throughout the new year. The story Ace shares about George Handel’s writing of the great oratorio, The Messiah, really struck a chord with me. I am sharing it with my Bible study group, along with a recipe for a very sweet treat — Sugar Cookie Truffles. So if you want to bring a bit of extra meaning into the hubbub of the holidays, you need to get a copy of this book. Or get 2 or 3 — this book makes a fabulous early Christmas present!

Highly recommended.

Audience: adults

(Thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[Tia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you looking for a new tradition for your family? Are you stuck in the hustle and bustle of Christmas? Are you losing your spirit of Christmas? If so, this book is just what you are looking for to put you and your family back on track for the true meaning of Christmas then this book is for you. It brings back to focus on the true meaning of Christmas with the focus being on Christ with Scriptures, your favorite movies and even making homemade gift ideas for your friends and family.

So, if you are finding yourself stuck in the same old routine of Christmas and losing sight of what it is all about then maybe you would want to check this out. The devotional takes you through the entire month of December. If you are looking for new traditions in your family and to change your focus this season, then check out Ace Collins' new book The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

I received an Advance Readers Copy (ARC) of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable or non-favorable review of this read.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 4 out of 5]

December means a time of celebration for many, especially Christians. It is often considered the most joyous time of the year. Collins has penned a unique devotional, perfect for the upcoming holiday season.

This book covers December 1st through the 31st. Each day contains a daily scripture verse and a devotional. The story behind a popular Christmas tradition, movie, or song is also included, along with some holiday crafts. It is as if Collins took the best of holiday books and put them together to create this one. It helps the reader keep the focus on the true meaning of the season instead of focusing on the busyness. It is inspiring and practical, and each reading short, making it easy to fit into your day. I believe this book will become part of my holiday tradition from now on.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy as part of the Litfuse Blogger program.

[Cheryl Baranski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year by Ace Collins. This book is full of wonderful scriptures, recipes and stories. A most wonderful way to start your Christmas season reading a section everyday. Makes a great gift. I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review. 4 stars!

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2fkgbXU

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins is just that – most wonderful! This collection of 31 readings for the month of December consists of meditative thoughts, hymn stories, and a recipe or craft. On the surface, it is this varied grouping of seasonal readings that seems to make it attractive, but readers will discover a hidden depth beginning in the very first chapter.

Many excellent devotionals have been written, collections of hymn stories are available (some written by Ace Collins, in fact), and all types of recipe or handcraft books abound … So what makes The Most Wonderful Time of the Year special? I think it’s because, while this warm and cozy collection entertains, it offers quiet, reflective moments in the midst of an often frustrating busy season – and we’re subtly challenged to shift our focus to others, being sensitive and responsive to the needs of those around us.

In the first day’s reading, everything is put into perspective as we’re asked to visualize the unthinkable, a world in which Christ had not been born. It was interesting to learn the meanings behind many of our Christmas traditions – that the evergreen tree represents eternal life, red decorations are symbolic of Christ’s shed blood, etc. In another chapter, Ace draws application from the wise men’s gifts, and I loved the suggestion to pray over our gift-giving list before beginning to shop.

Music is an integral part of Christmas, something that everyone can relate to, and this is one of the book’s strengths. Ace mentions some popular entertainers who were a vivid part of my growing up years – such as Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Bob Hope, Irving Berlin – causing many treasured family memories to surface. But most touching of all is the meditation on how George Frideric Handel came to write Messiah and the corresponding lesson of encouragement.

The hymn story of O Come, All Ye Faithful gives lyrics that include a verse I had never heard of, and I’d like to end with their beautiful thought . . .

Child, for us sinners
Poor and in the manger,
We would embrace thee
With love and awe.
Who would not love thee,
Loving us so dearly?
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is an excellent devotional collection that can be used personally and would also be a most meaningful gift. Highly recommended.

I was provided a free copy of this book through Litfuse Publicity. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Keri My Table of Three · Rating 5 out of 5]

This easy to read book was delightful and such a joy to follow along with. On each day the author does a wonderful job of sharing something centered around our Lord and Savior. Helping us see, through his words the impact of worrying and the blessing of joy and hope.

This book has great Christ Centered stories for each day, but it is also full of so much more. Along with his daily devotions, Collins includes the history of many of my favorite Christmas hymns, such as Joy to the World and Oh Holy Night. It was nice to read how each song came was born and then be able to sing the song with my little one. To get my son involved I used these sections of song history in our home school lessons each day. He also enjoyed hearing about the history.

Also included with the wonderful Biblical devotions and the stories of the songs, there are many great ideas for making gifts and delicious recipes that would make wonderful treats. It was wonderful to see all the recipes and DIY gift ideas spread throughout this book. You may be wondering how home made gifts or recipes fit into a devotional, but believe me it was a nice addition.

After all holiday foods and presents seem to fit into everyone's traditions no matter what our backgrounds are. Many of my holiday traditions growing up included special family recipes. I can't wait to try some of these recipes this year. If I had to say one thing I missed in this book, I would say it would be a picture of two. As a food blogger and lover of all recipes, I would loved to see some pictures of the recipes displayed or even some of the DIY gifts packaged up.

I think Day 4, Putting Gifts into Perspective, was one of my favorite days. It really helped me remember not to stress over gifts, but to give from the heart and with purpose. We were given the greatest gift of all many, many years ago when Jesus came to earth and I loved reading this book and being reminded about what is most important during the holiday season.

I highly recommend this book to anyone. It is well written and has a very laid back and easy to read flow to it. What a great book to add to our holiday traditions! ***Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book. All opinions are 100 percent my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins takes us from Dec 1st through the 31st on a devotional countdown to Christmas and beyond. Each day starts out by putting our focus on the reason we’re celebrating – the birth of Jesus and the change He makes in our lives. The Scripture and devotional then leads into the history of a Christmas hymn, along with the printed lyrics for our reflection. Each day ends with a seasonal craft or gift or recipe to make at home.

My favorite part of this devotional is the hymn histories and lyrics. I think sometimes we become so familiar with certain songs and carols that we sing them without really thinking about what the words mean. Allowing myself to stop and reflect on what I’m singing, on the true impact to my heart of words such as “So God imparts to human hearts / the blessings of His heaven” or “Good Christian friends, rejoice / with heart and soul and voice / now ye need not fear the grave / Jesus Christ was born to save!”

Bottom Line: The whole book is excellently done and very sweet. Tons of great gift ideas that will pamper the people you love and give your presents a heartfelt touch, not to mention the yummy recipes I can’t wait to try! If you’re looking for something to keep your heart and mind focused on the true meaning of Christmas, look no further than The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

[Jodie Wolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Most Wonderful Time of Year by Ace Collins, is a fresh look at the Advent season. Each day ​​throughout the month of December has a short devotional reading to help focus your heart on the reason why we celebrate Christmas... Jesus Christ. Ace gives a background on various songs we sing during this time of the year, and also some that aren't so typical. Finally, the daily reading ends with homemade gifts you can make for the ones you love.

I found this Advent devotional to be a fun read. I like the way he brought all the various aspects together to focus on our true reason to celebrate our Lord and Savior. It's a book I recommend for the holiday season.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Abingdon Press. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own. - 2016.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is a delightful month-long foray into enjoying every component of Christmas. I loved re-reading the various components of the Christmas story! The book blends each element into a delightfully cohesive whole over the course of the month.

I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the recipes (both food and otherwise). Good for Collins in breaking the stereotypes - much of this I did not expect from a male author!

The devotional covers the entire month of December and definitely builds excitement for Christmas throughout. Take behind-the-scenes looks at well-known Christmas carols and get inspiration for thoughtful homemade gifts and treats for any occasion. 

I received a free copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ace Collins is one of my favorite authors and this book is a wonderful addition to my collection, filled with inspiration it brings joy to your heart as you learn more about the biblical meaning of Christmas. This one chapter a day devotional also has stories behind the popular carols which I enjoyed a lot, he has included gift ideas and recipes for Christmas goodies.

The book would be an excellent gift for anyone but especially those that enjoy Christmas more than any other holiday.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very sweet, thought provoking, enjoyable read. Each day (December 1-31) includes a daily scripture, a short devotional, the full lyrics and history behind well known Christmas (or other) hymns, and a recipe for either something to eat or something like a foot scrub or birdseed ornament, etc. I especially enjoyed the chapters about selecting gifts and messages in Christmas cards. So often we do it all with a sense of obligation. Reading each day's message made Christmas seem more special and heart warming.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming and effecting title that brings the reader through the entirety of December. Collins combines historical anecdotes, biblical insights, suggestions for gifts, recipes, and hints of wisdom in each day's readings. From December 1-31, you'll find something to lift your spirits and prepare you for Christ's birth.

[The Ink Sipper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This devotional was a gift and I absolutely love it! I use it for our music lessons this time of year, which can also easily become a history lesson too. Each day features a different verse, a reflection on it, a Christmas song with information about it, and a craft or recipe that goes with it. This is a holiday favorite, this year making it's third year of enjoyment.

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I suppose I am in the Christmas mode this week with three books on Christmas I am reading. This was fun and quick. I wouldn't want to read it at Christmas because everyday is an idea for a gift. For me it would be good to read in October sort of to prepare my mindset and get thoughts flowing.

[Alina Bogateanu · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for this time of year. Three parts as one for each day of the month: a devotional, a carol and its story, and an idea of making the Christmas special for you and your family.

[B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I love the different types of things to do after each day. Love the songs too. Great book!

[Sally Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful devotional! And to top it off, each devotional includes a recipe for a food or a spa treatment item, and the story of a Christmas song.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is easy to lose the real meaning of Christmas, as you enter into the end of November and December, with all the focus on the busyness of the season. From buying gifts, traveling, cooking, and making preparations, it seems it is over before we know it. I found a great new book, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins, that incorporates some historical facts about Christmas traditions, amazing recipes, homemade crafts, the stories behind our time honored favorite Christmas carols, and of course the Biblical Scriptures for 30 days so you can keep Christ in Christmas all month long.

This is by far, one of my most favorite books because there is so much tucked into a small but precise book to help you understand not only why we incorporate certain things like Christmas trees, candy canes, the Yule Log, and even Santa Claus himself. All of these traditions had their basis in Christian foundations and not based on worldly values so that you can pass the historical facts along with your family and friends this Christmas season.

There are so many great recipes to add to your holiday baking that it makes gift giving a snap and gives you some fresh ideas that are simple and easy to make such as Pecan Snowball cookies, Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Mix, Snickers Cookie Bars, Eggnog Snickerdoodles and so much more. Along with that is the ideas for some homemade gifts that keep expenses down but add an entirely different element to your gift giving this year. Some ideas are Lavender Bath Salts in a Jar, Lime Mint Foot Scrub, Garlic Infused Olive Oil, Cookie Butter, Personal Photo Coasters, Lemon Beeswax Candles and so many more ideas that you can use these ideas not just at Christmas, but all year long.

Perhaps my favorite are the stories behind our Christmas traditions and songs, along with the Bible Scriptures that keep the element of Jesus in each day. This is not simply a retelling of the Christmas story we are all use to in Luke 2, but takes into consideration the reason for the wisemen's gifts to Jesus, how Christmas is tied to Easter, what the significance is to using X-mas over Christmas, and so much more.

I received The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity. This will now be part of my preparations of Christmas and in sharing all this historical facts with my family and friends through the month of December, all packed into a 30 day devotional or advent celebration. It gives you time to slow down some of the busyness of the Christmas season and reflect on what it really means to celebrate this time of the year but also the why's behind it all. I can't think of a better way to countdown this Christmas than with this book and it makes a great gift to give this year as well! I know I plan on picking up quite a few copies to tuck beneath our tree and to give to those who need some hope this Christmas. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars because there is so much packed into this book but also there is something for everyone. It will be hard to think of Christmas the same way again!

[Kella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Christmas. L-O-V-E!!!

But, as much as I love everything that encompasses the day, its easy to be distracted by all the tinsel and twinkly lights strung around the tree. All that sparkle, and for what? If not for the birth of Jesus, would we even have Christmas today? Would there be a reason to celebrate the gifts of redemption, salvation, and grace that God bestowed upon the world? Ace Collins opens this Christ-filled Christmas devotional with these kind of poignant, thought-provoking questions.

I’m really excited to re-read this devotional come December! I think it will be a great way to refocus on the true meaning of Christmas, and enjoy the holiday season with some homemade goodies.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who knows me knows that Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year! Therefore, I was so excited to have the chance to review The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year by Ace Collins. The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year is a daily devotional that will lead you on a journey from December 1st through December 31st and keep your mind focused on Jesus, with some fun along the way. The back cover reads:

"For Christians worldwide, the month of December is filled with joy and wonder as we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth. There is no other time of the year that can compare to the Christmas season for both the young and young at heart.

From December to New Year’s Eve, reawaken the wonder, joy, and magic that is Christmas with daily scripture and inspirational readings of stories behind popular Christmas traditions, carols and movies. Enjoy a wealth of fun activities to help make the most of the season, including heartwarming holiday recipes and homemade gift ideas.

With this soon-to-be-cherished holiday devotional, best-selling author Ace Collins will capture your imagination and help to make each day of December more memorable and meaningful to you, and those you love, by shining a light on the real spirit of the season."

I've read several Christmas devotionals, and I have to say that this is my favorite one so far. Ace's devotions are full of meat and not superficial at all, which some can tend to be. These devotions provide wisdom, insight, comfort, and all of them point back to the true spirit of Christmas and keep our mind on the fact that Jesus is the true reason for the season. If you're feeling stressed, harried, worried, overwhelmed, or just not feeling the Christmas joy this season, this is the perfect book for you. Interspersed throughout the book are Christmas recipes and homemade gifts you can make for your family and friends. I really enjoyed the addition of these fun ideas and am looking forward to trying several of the recipes. I highly recommend making The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year a part of your family's Christmas celebration for this year and many years to come.

I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in order to provide an honest, unbiased review. All opinions are my own.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

For Christians worldwide, the month of December is filled with joy and wonder as we anticipate the celebration of Christ's birth. There is no other time of the year that can compare to the Christmas season for both the young and young at heart.


From December to New Year's Eve, reawaken the wonder, joy, and magic that is Christmas with daily scripture and inspirational readings of stories behind popular Christmas traditions, carols and movies. Enjoy a wealth of fun activities to help make the most of the season, including heartwarming holiday recipes and homemade gift ideas.


With this soon-to-be-cherished holiday devotional, best-selling author Ace Collins will capture your imagination and help to make each day of December more memorable and meaningful to you, and those you love, by shining a light on the real spirit of the season.


My Review:

The holidays are inching closer and closer with each passing day. I love the days leading up to it but hate that eventually it all has to come to an end. I love the holiday season. Upon at first being asked to review The Most Wonderful Time of the Year--I honestly thought it was a work of fiction but when I sat down to dig in, I realized it wasn't. But honestly, I was intrigued so I read on.


First of all, I'm a big fan of Ace Collins, the writing is really good and just reading his words just brings me comfort. Really hard to explain but it's like warm cookies and milk---its that good. Ace took a devotional and based it on the 31 days of December. He has taken old songs, old recipes, and just about anything else you can imagine and gives you incite to the holiday season on an even grander scale. It's an amazing devotional that you can continue to use every December.


I really enjoyed reminiscing with the author. Great look back at the different ideas and treasures of past Christmases and so much more.


**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

[Rebecca Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes as an adult, I have trouble feeling the Christmas spirit. It seems like the responsibilities outweigh the joy, both in giving and in celebrating Christ’s birth. I might even occasionally feel like a grinch. That is why I love Christmas devotionals. They give me an avenue to bring a little meaning and Christmas spirit into a day that might be overwhelmed with a to-do list. So, when I received the opportunity to review The Most Wonderful Time of the Year: A Countdown to Christmas, I was excited about the opportunity to read through it and use it to add a little more Christmas into my day.

This book is a collection of 31 devotionals for the whole month of December. These devotionals are a little different from the standard devotional as Collins takes the scripture and then reminds the reader of a Christmas song or movie that relates to the verse that he has chosen. As someone who really connects to stories and songs, I found this to be a blissful nugget for each day. However, the devotion is not all there is to a daily reading. Each day also has a Christmas song story with the lyrics printed out for reading and either a homemade gift or cookie recipe for you to consider making.

I have to say that I love this book! I read through it for this review, but I will totally be working through it day-by-day this December, and I will be listening to music and making at least some of the homemade gifts and cookies that I’ve been given instructions for. This is a beautiful little treasury to turn to year after year, and I can see using this book as a reference or a devotional will be something that will grow to be a family tradition in our house.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.