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A Christmas by the Sea
When a widow and her twelve year old son inherit a shabby but charming beach house in Maine, they move in with very different hopes. Can the Christmas season bring them the miracle they need?
169 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2018
1230 people are currently reading
4811 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
422 books3,272 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 770 reviews
November 13, 2018
I picked this up from my local library not even paying attention to the author's name due to the library stickers. My oldest daughter noticed when I got home and brought to my attention that it's one of her favorite authors. Although she's read Melody Carlson's "TrueColors" series multiple times, this is a first read by this author for me.
The story begins with Wendy who's just lost her husband to cancer and currently living in Cincinnati, Ohio with their 12-year-old son Jackson. She's inherited her grandparent's cottage in Maine which is like a blessing because her finances are sort of a mess. She decides to drive to Maine with Jackson so she can prepare the cottage with plans to put it on the market.
Wendy falls in love with 'small town' Seaside all over again, but knows that she has to sell the cottage and return to her job. She wants to do the best for her son Jackson, although he has plans of his own and that's moving to Seaside permanently. He won't take no for an answer. Wendy's feeling unsure about everything and wonders how she could ever make a living there while providing for Jackson financially. She meets a local man named Caleb Colton that really attracts her. While Wendy continues to make repairs on the cottage, she begins to weigh the possibilities of a new life at Seaside.
Sweet and heartwarming, this Christian romance was a little too fluffy at times for me, but I still enjoyed it. It's a well-written, super quick read at about 167 pages. The writing was descriptive and with all the imagery I found myself wishing I could visit this beautiful town at Christmas. For being such a short read, I appreciated the character depth. I found the characters totally relatable except for Crystal of course. She was nearly unbearable for me! The romance is extremely light and there's not a single bit of profanity throughout the whole book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story is full of hope and joy which is always nice around the holidays. This is a book that will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit! I'm looking forward to reading some other Christmas books by Melody Carlson.
4****
You can see this review@ https://readrantrockandroll.com/2018/...
The story begins with Wendy who's just lost her husband to cancer and currently living in Cincinnati, Ohio with their 12-year-old son Jackson. She's inherited her grandparent's cottage in Maine which is like a blessing because her finances are sort of a mess. She decides to drive to Maine with Jackson so she can prepare the cottage with plans to put it on the market.
Wendy falls in love with 'small town' Seaside all over again, but knows that she has to sell the cottage and return to her job. She wants to do the best for her son Jackson, although he has plans of his own and that's moving to Seaside permanently. He won't take no for an answer. Wendy's feeling unsure about everything and wonders how she could ever make a living there while providing for Jackson financially. She meets a local man named Caleb Colton that really attracts her. While Wendy continues to make repairs on the cottage, she begins to weigh the possibilities of a new life at Seaside.
Sweet and heartwarming, this Christian romance was a little too fluffy at times for me, but I still enjoyed it. It's a well-written, super quick read at about 167 pages. The writing was descriptive and with all the imagery I found myself wishing I could visit this beautiful town at Christmas. For being such a short read, I appreciated the character depth. I found the characters totally relatable except for Crystal of course. She was nearly unbearable for me! The romance is extremely light and there's not a single bit of profanity throughout the whole book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story is full of hope and joy which is always nice around the holidays. This is a book that will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit! I'm looking forward to reading some other Christmas books by Melody Carlson.
4****
You can see this review@ https://readrantrockandroll.com/2018/...
December 20, 2019
3 stars
This is a Christmas novella that reads a lot like a Hallmark movie, and I didn’t mind it at all. It was a story about a struggling single mom named Wendy and her son Jackson temporarily moving to her family’s seaside cottage she has just inherited. She has every intention of fixing it up and selling it quickly to help them get back on their feet, but both Jackson and Wendy end up falling in love with the cottage and the town it’s in.
This was a sweet story and I enjoyed it quite a bit, but the ending was really abrupt and the proclamations of love came out of nowhere for me. The romance was unbelievable, but the story itself was otherwise good.
This is a Christmas novella that reads a lot like a Hallmark movie, and I didn’t mind it at all. It was a story about a struggling single mom named Wendy and her son Jackson temporarily moving to her family’s seaside cottage she has just inherited. She has every intention of fixing it up and selling it quickly to help them get back on their feet, but both Jackson and Wendy end up falling in love with the cottage and the town it’s in.
This was a sweet story and I enjoyed it quite a bit, but the ending was really abrupt and the proclamations of love came out of nowhere for me. The romance was unbelievable, but the story itself was otherwise good.
January 19, 2022
Cozy and homey, this made for a very pleasant listen this afternoon. That special and unique feeling of home came through in Wendy and Jackson's small delights. The time spent together collecting sand dollars, looking through old family photos, and even their efforts to renovate the cottage seemed so relaxing and comfortable. Time spent together, enjoying each other's company, and a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day, I can't think of a better way to spend the day.
My only disappointment was the ending, it was much too rushed and came without enough supporting background material to be an expected or valid conclusion. I also want to note that if you're looking for something with a strong Christmas spirit, this will not fit the bill as the Christmas elements are modest and mild.
My only disappointment was the ending, it was much too rushed and came without enough supporting background material to be an expected or valid conclusion. I also want to note that if you're looking for something with a strong Christmas spirit, this will not fit the bill as the Christmas elements are modest and mild.
September 15, 2018
Even though this is only a novella length book at 167 pages it truly packs a wallop.
Every Christmas season I look forward to Melody's newest holiday read and for a small book it's packed to the brim with fabulous stuff! Melody weaves together a tale of what it really means to be at home no matter where you are. Wendy and her son are struggling financially after her husband died several years ago and inheriting her grandparents beach house is a true blessing. Planning on fixing it and quickly selling it and moving back to Ohio she doesn't plan on her son,Jackson falling in love with the house and area. She puts off telling him she plans on selling because he feels so happy there and she doesn't want to ruin it for him. Jackson, a very helpful and mature teen though and I do believe he knew what was going on the whole time. What could be better than spending the holiday season in a gorgeous beach town that feels like home and the bonus of a new possible romance for Wendy. A friendly and slobbery dog rounds out the picture but will Wendy be able to financially support her small family with the crafts she makes or will she and her heartbroken son have to return to Ohio? Beautiful story about spiritual and personal growth.
Pub Date 04 Sep 2018
Thank you to Revell for a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Every Christmas season I look forward to Melody's newest holiday read and for a small book it's packed to the brim with fabulous stuff! Melody weaves together a tale of what it really means to be at home no matter where you are. Wendy and her son are struggling financially after her husband died several years ago and inheriting her grandparents beach house is a true blessing. Planning on fixing it and quickly selling it and moving back to Ohio she doesn't plan on her son,Jackson falling in love with the house and area. She puts off telling him she plans on selling because he feels so happy there and she doesn't want to ruin it for him. Jackson, a very helpful and mature teen though and I do believe he knew what was going on the whole time. What could be better than spending the holiday season in a gorgeous beach town that feels like home and the bonus of a new possible romance for Wendy. A friendly and slobbery dog rounds out the picture but will Wendy be able to financially support her small family with the crafts she makes or will she and her heartbroken son have to return to Ohio? Beautiful story about spiritual and personal growth.
Pub Date 04 Sep 2018
Thank you to Revell for a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2018
I liked the characters and the location, but the ending was startlingly abrupt, and both totally predictable and totally unrealistic.
December 18, 2023
A cute, fast and satisfying Christmas audio read. All the things that were easy and happy for a festive season read. There was an inciting incident thread, though it was safely known to the reader this would work out ok. Wendy has lost her husband and heads out to Maine to deal with her inherited beach cottage. She needs the money from a sale to help with her mounting medical bills, but it’s heartbreaking for her as she witnesses her young son Jackson thrive and blossom as soon as they arrive. He is firm on staying, she has other plans, and quickly sets to the renovation. Enter Caleb, a handsome yet confirmed bachelor, and a mean local girl, who has ownership over this lovely and kind man. Wendy reflects on her childhood with her grandfather, and it did strike me as odd she never introduced he and her son. This was a neatly tied up story, though, so timing and condensing quick facts would have played a part. As did a VERY quick romance. As a Christian romance book, this was not too pressured, mother and son had faith and this helped them along their way. Charming in a cutesy way, and possibly surprising that I rated so highly. I enjoyed listening to it, it made me happy.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox platform and my public library.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox platform and my public library.
December 31, 2021
A Christmas by the Sea by Melody Carlson is another in her series of Christmas-themed Hallmarkish books if you are looking for a break from your usual. When Wendy Harper inherits her family's beachside cottage in Seaside, Maine, she sees it as a way to finally pay off the debts that have mounted since her husband died. But before it can be sold, the neglected property must be renovated. She and her 12-year-old son Jackson move in--temporarily, she reminds him--in order to do the work themselves, even though Christmas is coming. The charming town, along with local craftsman Caleb Colton, pulls on both Wendy and Jackson, who even registers himself for school in a bid to get his mom to move them there permanently. Wendy knows that the most responsible thing to do is to sell the cottage and return to Ohio, but the lure of the sea is hard to resist.
December 7, 2018
Not my typical genre. It was simple and sweet but the ending was a bit rushed and I wasn't fond of how dishonest Wendy was with Jackson about her intentions to sell the house.
October 22, 2021
Melody Carlson has been on my author radar since I read the very first book by her. She has a way of making you become emotionally invested in all of her characters and soon you find yourself cheering them on and praying they find their happily ever after. Melody creates characters that pull you right in and never let you go, even after the last page is read. The way Melody writes, puts you right in the middle of their story, leaving you feeling like you truly know the characters and feeling exactly what they are going through. I love when an author can do that to me. CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA is a story about a struggling single mom named Wendy and her son Jackson, who temporarily move to her family’s seaside cottage that she has just inherited. If you love a romantic holiday story then you have to give A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA a go. You won’t be sorry and your heart will be warmer because of it.
I started A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA one afternoon and couldn’t stop reading until the very last page. I want to get out my tree and decorations now and set it up and it’s only October. I have always enjoyed Melody Carlson’s stories and this one does not disappoint. Melody’s stories always leave me feeling warm and fuzzy inside with a huge smile on my face. As I was reading, I felt like I was right there with Wendy and Jackson spreading Christmas cheer. Caleb has a huge heart and just wants to have a happy Christmas. It is now a tradition every year to read Melody Carlson’s annual Christmas novella. A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA is one of her best stories so far with this heart warming holiday tale set in Seaside, Maine. Melody Carlson has a gift for telling uplifting and inspirational stories and she knows exactly how to get the reader in the holiday spirit.
I can totally see A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA becoming a Hallmark Christmas movie that I would love to watch. Melody Carlson always puts me on an emotional roller coaster and A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA is exactly why! Now the only thing I’m sad about is, I just finished her wonderful book and now I have to wait for the next one! It was so nice to read a clean romance, where the couple actually have a friendship and not fall in love instantly. I loved the scene with Wendy and Jackson finding sand dollars along the beach. Although light, spiritual content is woven through the story and left my mind at peace. Melody has been one of my top authors from the very first book of hers that I had the pleasure of reading and when you read A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA you will know exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I started A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA one afternoon and couldn’t stop reading until the very last page. I want to get out my tree and decorations now and set it up and it’s only October. I have always enjoyed Melody Carlson’s stories and this one does not disappoint. Melody’s stories always leave me feeling warm and fuzzy inside with a huge smile on my face. As I was reading, I felt like I was right there with Wendy and Jackson spreading Christmas cheer. Caleb has a huge heart and just wants to have a happy Christmas. It is now a tradition every year to read Melody Carlson’s annual Christmas novella. A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA is one of her best stories so far with this heart warming holiday tale set in Seaside, Maine. Melody Carlson has a gift for telling uplifting and inspirational stories and she knows exactly how to get the reader in the holiday spirit.
I can totally see A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA becoming a Hallmark Christmas movie that I would love to watch. Melody Carlson always puts me on an emotional roller coaster and A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA is exactly why! Now the only thing I’m sad about is, I just finished her wonderful book and now I have to wait for the next one! It was so nice to read a clean romance, where the couple actually have a friendship and not fall in love instantly. I loved the scene with Wendy and Jackson finding sand dollars along the beach. Although light, spiritual content is woven through the story and left my mind at peace. Melody has been one of my top authors from the very first book of hers that I had the pleasure of reading and when you read A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA you will know exactly why.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 26, 2019
Every year I always make it a point to read Melody Carlson's latest Christmas Novel. I have never read one that I didn't like. This year Melody takes her characters from Cincinnati Ohio to Seaside Maine. Wendy Harper lost her husband to cancer about four years before her
Grandpa, who she called Poppa, passed away. He left her his cottage by the ocean in Seaside Maine.
Wendy and her twelve year old son travel to Seaside to visit the cottage. Wendy was left with a lot of her husband's medical bills and both of their college loans to pay off. She planned to fix the cottage up and have it ready to list for sale. Her plans were to have it sold before Christmas and be back at her job in Cincinnati.
Seaside property should make a nice profit and enable Wendy to pay off her debts. Jackson, that's her son, wanted to live at the cottage and stay in Seaside. But Wendy couldn't see how she could provide for their needs working at a tourist town.
How can she break this news to Jackson? He loves the ocean and makes friends with some of the youth there. But what can she do? Does she really have a choice? And then there's Caleb Colton who happens to cross Wendy's path everywhere she goes. Good looking blue eyed Caleb Colton who happens to be a bachelor that at least one other woman in town has her eyes on.
This story was a very good Christmas read. It didn't disappoint. All fans of Melody Carlson would like this novel. If you enjoy contemporary romance this is for you. It's also Christian Fiction which means there's no swearing or bedroom scenes in the story. I highly recommend it to be part of your Christmas reading .
Grandpa, who she called Poppa, passed away. He left her his cottage by the ocean in Seaside Maine.
Wendy and her twelve year old son travel to Seaside to visit the cottage. Wendy was left with a lot of her husband's medical bills and both of their college loans to pay off. She planned to fix the cottage up and have it ready to list for sale. Her plans were to have it sold before Christmas and be back at her job in Cincinnati.
Seaside property should make a nice profit and enable Wendy to pay off her debts. Jackson, that's her son, wanted to live at the cottage and stay in Seaside. But Wendy couldn't see how she could provide for their needs working at a tourist town.
How can she break this news to Jackson? He loves the ocean and makes friends with some of the youth there. But what can she do? Does she really have a choice? And then there's Caleb Colton who happens to cross Wendy's path everywhere she goes. Good looking blue eyed Caleb Colton who happens to be a bachelor that at least one other woman in town has her eyes on.
This story was a very good Christmas read. It didn't disappoint. All fans of Melody Carlson would like this novel. If you enjoy contemporary romance this is for you. It's also Christian Fiction which means there's no swearing or bedroom scenes in the story. I highly recommend it to be part of your Christmas reading .
September 20, 2018
Every Christmas season I look forward to Melody Carlson's newest holiday book. It was a quick story (only 167 pages) but it was packed with emotion, family love, and second chances. Wendy and her son are struggling financially after her husband died several years ago from cancer. Left with medical bills and student loans, finding out that she had inherited her grandparent's beach house seems like a true blessing. Heading to the small town of Seaside, Wendy plans on fixing it up the cottage and quickly selling it and moving back to Ohio. What she doesn't plan on is that her son Jackson will fall in love with the cottage, the town and the people. A friendly and slobbery dog rounds out the picture of the new home that Jackson is hoping will be theirs. With the help of local craftsman, Caleb, Wendy tries to make a living using her craft skills and shells she and Jackson find so she can remain in Seaside. When Jackson finds out that his mother wants to move back to Ohio, he does what an adolescent does, he tries to force his mother's hand. Will Wendy be able to financially support her small family with the crafts she makes or will she and her heartbroken son have to return to Ohio?
This is a sweet story of family, second chances, independence and romance. What could be better than spending the holiday season in a gorgeous beach town that feels like home and the bonus of a new possible romance for Wendy. Can God answer their prayers to be able to start a new life in this small town that feels more like home than Ohio ever did. The story flows beautifully and is well paced. The characters in the story are all helpful in trying to get Wendy and Jackson to stay, all except for the pretty Crystal, who seems to have her own feelings for Caleb. This is a beautiful story about spiritual and personal growth. A magical Christmas story that can be read in a day by a warm fire. The publisher, Revell, provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, opinions and ideas are my own.
This is a sweet story of family, second chances, independence and romance. What could be better than spending the holiday season in a gorgeous beach town that feels like home and the bonus of a new possible romance for Wendy. Can God answer their prayers to be able to start a new life in this small town that feels more like home than Ohio ever did. The story flows beautifully and is well paced. The characters in the story are all helpful in trying to get Wendy and Jackson to stay, all except for the pretty Crystal, who seems to have her own feelings for Caleb. This is a beautiful story about spiritual and personal growth. A magical Christmas story that can be read in a day by a warm fire. The publisher, Revell, provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, opinions and ideas are my own.
September 3, 2018
I read Melody's Christmas novellas every year. And they put me in such a great mood.
I love them and each one is so different than the last.
This years Christmas novella was such a sweet one. I love happy endings to so this was right up my alley.
I feel in love with Jackson and I hope that you will love his story and his cottage by the sea.
This is a 5 star must read. I HIGHLY recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
I love them and each one is so different than the last.
This years Christmas novella was such a sweet one. I love happy endings to so this was right up my alley.
I feel in love with Jackson and I hope that you will love his story and his cottage by the sea.
This is a 5 star must read. I HIGHLY recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
January 17, 2020
Rated 3.5 - #TBRChallenge - A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA by Melody Carlson is an instant-love, sweet romance that is easy to read in one sitting. I especially enjoyed the cottage renovations and the main characters’ creativity.
See the review in full color at my blog, TheZestQuest.com.
Why was this book in Dorine’s TBR? The cover drew me to it when I saw it listed on Amazon for .99 cents in November 2019. I purposely stock up on novellas for this month’s “we love short shorts” challenge. Intending to read two novellas by a favorite author, this new-to-me author’s book won for several reasons. I love seaside cottages, and rarely see a story centered on one in the US. Even rarer to see characters from my home state of Ohio. Also, I needed a holiday story fix. As long as it’s snowing, I can read Christmas themes. Cute cover, Christmas theme, cottage – check, check, check.
Review…
Widow Wendy Harper inherits a cottage in Maine from her grandfather. She takes some time off work in Ohio to renovate it to sell. Her son Jackson is over-the-moon excited about living in Maine. He just won’t listen to her hints that they’re only temporary residents.
Local artisan Caleb Colton senses Wendy needs this cottage and the small-town lifestyle more than she lets on. He also can’t resist spending time with her and her son. Can his helpful suggestions prove to Wendy that she belongs in her childhood vacation home permanently?
For those who are on the fence about Christian romance, this one is good to try. The characters believe in God, so they pray for guidance, but it’s not overdone. Those who love sweet, closed-door romances will be pleased that this one is just that. It’s fast and sweet and romantic.
I enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters. Even more, I appreciated the detail on fixing up the cottage, as well as the detail on Wendy’s crafts she made to decorate it.
Wendy was on the fence about when to tell her son that they had to sell this cottage and that they couldn’t live there permanently. I understood her reasoning for not being more honest with him, but she constantly worried about it. All that beating herself up for not being honest with him got old about halfway through the book. I just wanted her to get over it and tell him.
Other than that, the only other thing that bugged me was why she never took her son to meet his great grandfather when he was alive. As much as she cherished her memories vacationing in this cottage, it seemed odd that she didn’t visit it and her grandfather as an adult.
It’s nice to read a super sweet romance once in a while, but I felt the love happened a bit too fast. Yes, they had attraction, but to fall in love in a couple of weeks seemed a bit too fairy-tale to believe. Maybe that’s because the reader isn’t given enough detail about their time together to find it believable. Since it’s such a short story, that part felt rushed.
Overall, I think this novella does its job of introducing Melody Carlson’s style to new readers. I’d like to see what she does with a longer story and I wouldn’t be opposed to picking up more novellas by her. It’s a nice break in-between books to read a short.
This was a great choice for this month’s TBR Challenge. I have the hardest time meeting the deadline for January, so a “short short” theme is the only reason I can consider kicking off the New Year almost on time!
If you like short stories with sweetness lining the pages, then I think you’ll enjoy A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA.
Review by Dorine, courtesy of TheZestQuest.com. A digital copy was purchased. Thanks in advance for following links and sharing this review on social media.
See the review in full color at my blog, TheZestQuest.com.
Why was this book in Dorine’s TBR? The cover drew me to it when I saw it listed on Amazon for .99 cents in November 2019. I purposely stock up on novellas for this month’s “we love short shorts” challenge. Intending to read two novellas by a favorite author, this new-to-me author’s book won for several reasons. I love seaside cottages, and rarely see a story centered on one in the US. Even rarer to see characters from my home state of Ohio. Also, I needed a holiday story fix. As long as it’s snowing, I can read Christmas themes. Cute cover, Christmas theme, cottage – check, check, check.
Review…
Widow Wendy Harper inherits a cottage in Maine from her grandfather. She takes some time off work in Ohio to renovate it to sell. Her son Jackson is over-the-moon excited about living in Maine. He just won’t listen to her hints that they’re only temporary residents.
Local artisan Caleb Colton senses Wendy needs this cottage and the small-town lifestyle more than she lets on. He also can’t resist spending time with her and her son. Can his helpful suggestions prove to Wendy that she belongs in her childhood vacation home permanently?
For those who are on the fence about Christian romance, this one is good to try. The characters believe in God, so they pray for guidance, but it’s not overdone. Those who love sweet, closed-door romances will be pleased that this one is just that. It’s fast and sweet and romantic.
I enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters. Even more, I appreciated the detail on fixing up the cottage, as well as the detail on Wendy’s crafts she made to decorate it.
Wendy was on the fence about when to tell her son that they had to sell this cottage and that they couldn’t live there permanently. I understood her reasoning for not being more honest with him, but she constantly worried about it. All that beating herself up for not being honest with him got old about halfway through the book. I just wanted her to get over it and tell him.
Other than that, the only other thing that bugged me was why she never took her son to meet his great grandfather when he was alive. As much as she cherished her memories vacationing in this cottage, it seemed odd that she didn’t visit it and her grandfather as an adult.
It’s nice to read a super sweet romance once in a while, but I felt the love happened a bit too fast. Yes, they had attraction, but to fall in love in a couple of weeks seemed a bit too fairy-tale to believe. Maybe that’s because the reader isn’t given enough detail about their time together to find it believable. Since it’s such a short story, that part felt rushed.
Overall, I think this novella does its job of introducing Melody Carlson’s style to new readers. I’d like to see what she does with a longer story and I wouldn’t be opposed to picking up more novellas by her. It’s a nice break in-between books to read a short.
This was a great choice for this month’s TBR Challenge. I have the hardest time meeting the deadline for January, so a “short short” theme is the only reason I can consider kicking off the New Year almost on time!
If you like short stories with sweetness lining the pages, then I think you’ll enjoy A CHRISTMAS BY THE SEA.
Review by Dorine, courtesy of TheZestQuest.com. A digital copy was purchased. Thanks in advance for following links and sharing this review on social media.
August 31, 2018
It wasn't snowing this week, but we did have a dark, cool, rainy day that felt a little winterish. It felt close enough to the Christmas season that it was the perfect day to get my tea and curl up and read A Christmas by the Sea by Melody Carlson.
A Christmas by the Sea is the story of Wendy and her son Jackson Harper. After Wendy's husband died a few years before from cancer, Wendy was left with mounting debts. Then she inherits her grandparents' cottage in Seaside, Maine. Wendy sees this as a way to finally pay off her debts. However, Jackson sees it as a place to get a fresh start with fresh, new memories. Wendy wants her son to be happy but she doesn't know what else to do. But maybe God has something else in mind?
A Christmas by the Sea was a sweet feel-good novella. I enjoyed this story and genuinely liked the characters. However, I did get a little frustrated by the communication struggles, but I have seen enough poor communication in families around me to find that the story was believable, especially since they felt they were helping someone by not sharing the complete truth. I do wish we could have had more romance going on but then this wouldn't be a novella like it was supposed to be. Yes, the ending was expected but this was just the kind of story I wanted on the dreary day that I read it. Sometimes we all need a little "feel good" story in our life and this story doesn't disappoint on that end.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
A Christmas by the Sea is the story of Wendy and her son Jackson Harper. After Wendy's husband died a few years before from cancer, Wendy was left with mounting debts. Then she inherits her grandparents' cottage in Seaside, Maine. Wendy sees this as a way to finally pay off her debts. However, Jackson sees it as a place to get a fresh start with fresh, new memories. Wendy wants her son to be happy but she doesn't know what else to do. But maybe God has something else in mind?
A Christmas by the Sea was a sweet feel-good novella. I enjoyed this story and genuinely liked the characters. However, I did get a little frustrated by the communication struggles, but I have seen enough poor communication in families around me to find that the story was believable, especially since they felt they were helping someone by not sharing the complete truth. I do wish we could have had more romance going on but then this wouldn't be a novella like it was supposed to be. Yes, the ending was expected but this was just the kind of story I wanted on the dreary day that I read it. Sometimes we all need a little "feel good" story in our life and this story doesn't disappoint on that end.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
August 12, 2018
I was immediately drawn to this cover and title. Christmas and the sea...double "yes!"
I loved the sweetness of this story, weaving in family and friend relationships (and of course, romance) in a perfect way. I enjoyed Wendy and Jackson's interaction, and Caleb was especially endearing. It was nice to read a clean romance, where the couple actually have a friendship. There are two kisses, not detailed at all, and some attraction, but I found it sweet.
The setting was amazing! I especially loved the scene when Wendy and Jackson were finding sand dollars along the beach :) Although light, spiritual content was woven through the story and fit with the events in the characters lives.
One character got a little irritating, and there is an issue with communication with some characters, but all in all, I highly recommend this story. The perfect book to get you ready for the Christmas season!
*This book was provided courtesy of Baker publishing through Interviews & Reviews*
I loved the sweetness of this story, weaving in family and friend relationships (and of course, romance) in a perfect way. I enjoyed Wendy and Jackson's interaction, and Caleb was especially endearing. It was nice to read a clean romance, where the couple actually have a friendship. There are two kisses, not detailed at all, and some attraction, but I found it sweet.
The setting was amazing! I especially loved the scene when Wendy and Jackson were finding sand dollars along the beach :) Although light, spiritual content was woven through the story and fit with the events in the characters lives.
One character got a little irritating, and there is an issue with communication with some characters, but all in all, I highly recommend this story. The perfect book to get you ready for the Christmas season!
*This book was provided courtesy of Baker publishing through Interviews & Reviews*
December 16, 2019
Vēl viens saldi lipīgs stāsts Ziemassvētku laikam. Nekas īpašs, bet grāmata sagādāja tieši to, ko no tās gribēju.
December 8, 2018
A Christmas By The Sea by Melody Carlson is the most delightful Christian romance. Every year I eagerly await the latest festive offering from Melody Carlson and I am never disappointed.
The novel is about blessings. Sometimes in life, we can see the hand of God at work in our lives, especially when we look backwards.
There are new beginnings to be had. The fresh sea air contrasts with the oppressive city life. “She felt like the child inside her waking up.” Returning to the seaside of her childhood, hope begins to rise.
Sometimes we just need to step out in faith and trust God. “She… had… believed that God would meet all their needs. When had she quit?” Life can be hard and we may drift from God but it is never too late to return to Him. Wanting to believe and trust God again is the first step to doing it.
The inclusion of a dog is sure to make the reader smile.
Memories are important, as is knowing our roots. We can remember the good times and also set about making new memories.
A warm, wonderful community atmosphere pervades the novel. I ‘felt’ included in the action. The people pull together to meet needs.
I absolutely adored A Christmas By The Sea. I cannot wait for the festive offering from Melody Carlson in 2019!
Absolutely wonderful.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The novel is about blessings. Sometimes in life, we can see the hand of God at work in our lives, especially when we look backwards.
There are new beginnings to be had. The fresh sea air contrasts with the oppressive city life. “She felt like the child inside her waking up.” Returning to the seaside of her childhood, hope begins to rise.
Sometimes we just need to step out in faith and trust God. “She… had… believed that God would meet all their needs. When had she quit?” Life can be hard and we may drift from God but it is never too late to return to Him. Wanting to believe and trust God again is the first step to doing it.
The inclusion of a dog is sure to make the reader smile.
Memories are important, as is knowing our roots. We can remember the good times and also set about making new memories.
A warm, wonderful community atmosphere pervades the novel. I ‘felt’ included in the action. The people pull together to meet needs.
I absolutely adored A Christmas By The Sea. I cannot wait for the festive offering from Melody Carlson in 2019!
Absolutely wonderful.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
October 20, 2021
Wendy is a widowed struggling mother, with a 12 year old son Jackson, they live in Ohio. Wendy inherited her parents beach cottage in Seaside Maine. Wendy and Jackson drive to Seaside, they sleep in a few cheap hotels on the way there because they don't have much money. Wendy and Jackson arrive at the cottage thinking they can fix it up and instantly sell it because they need money. In this book you will meet Caleb Colton, the local craftsman, you will think he is annoying at first, but then you will instantly fall in love with him.
If you're looking for a cute Christmas book, I highly recommend reading A Christmas by the Sea written by Melody Carlson. It was so cute and heart warming, I actually hope they make a hallmark movie on this book!!!!
If you're looking for a cute Christmas book, I highly recommend reading A Christmas by the Sea written by Melody Carlson. It was so cute and heart warming, I actually hope they make a hallmark movie on this book!!!!
November 26, 2018
A delightful Christmas tale about second chances, love and trusting in the power of God.
December 29, 2022
For a short Christmas story this was festive and quick to read. It could have used a little more Christmassy moments. Also I wished there was more character development than there was details about how much work Wendy was doing in rehabbing the cabin she inherited. If I had gotten to know more about the characters than about Wendy working on painting the cabin then I would’ve believed the ending and insta-love more. Really the romance was more the side character even with this 2 week Insta-love fairytale happily ever after ending.
Seriously the ending was just pure cheesy FAIRYTALE proposal happily ever after. But I still liked some of the story so 2.50🎄
Seriously the ending was just pure cheesy FAIRYTALE proposal happily ever after. But I still liked some of the story so 2.50🎄
December 9, 2022
Wendy Harper views the inheritance of a beach cottage left her by her grandfather, as the way to finally pay off the massive debts incurred by her husband’s cancer and resultant death. Along with her son Jackson she heads to the town of Seaside Maine intending to restore the old cottage to its original charm and then sell it, all before Christmas. Jackson, is delighted with the move as he had been bullied at his old school and believes they are moving permantly to the cottage. Wendy knows it is impractical but she is happy to allow him time to dream as he helps her repaint and repair the cottage.
However, she is unprepared for how much she delights in being back in the town and cottage that was so much a part of her own childhood holiday memories. And Jackson is so happy. Can she find a way to make it work so they do not have to move back to Ohio and the job from which she is currently on leave?
Caleb Colton, a local who has returned to Seaside to live, helps her with some renovations and ideas. Wendy is attracted to him but it is obvious their lives are heading in two different directions. Plus there is Crystal who is very possessive of Caleb.
This is a gentle story that engaged me from the outset. Jen, Jackson and Caleb are all likeable characters as are some of the other townsfolk. Crystal not so much, but she certainly plays a role in this story. I don’t often read many Christmas themed books, but felt the need this year for some reason. Maybe it was just the pretty cover attracted me initially. Anyway I am glad I took a chance on it.
Yes, it was a little predictable but I enjoyed it. A light read that I suspect could easily translate to a Hallmark Christmas movie. Written from a Christian perspective, it does contain talk of prayer and of God but it is not heavy handed and preachy.
A delightful read although the ending does perhaps seem a little abrupt. Maybe I just wasn’t ready to say goodbye? Loved the charming setting of the cottage in Maine. Although she has written a number of books, this was my first book by this author. I’ll be interested to read more by her in due course. A lovely read for the Christmas season or, really, any time of year.
September 15, 2018
Another sweet Christmas read by Melody Carlson. I enjoyed seeing Wendy work with her son, Jackson, to restore the summer cottage that had belonged to her grandparents and was filled with fond memories. Caleb was a warm hearted hero who cared a lot about both Wendy and Jackson. A very predictable ending which was a bit rushed just to wind up this novella as she had only known Caleb for two weeks, so this felt a bit unrealistic and financially unsound. Focus was God's provision.
A sweet, quick read for a curl up in front of the fireplace on a cold day.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
A sweet, quick read for a curl up in front of the fireplace on a cold day.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
December 17, 2019
This was a cute novella of a woman inheriting her grandfather's seaside cottage and her 12-year-old son. But what she originally plans and how things turn out are two different things. The influence of children is hard to deny.
I enjoyed this story and as usual with a novella the end seemed rushed, but not that it wasn't going to happen anyway. But definitely a feel good story for Christmas.
I enjoyed this story and as usual with a novella the end seemed rushed, but not that it wasn't going to happen anyway. But definitely a feel good story for Christmas.
December 21, 2018
3.5 stars
Charming characters with interesting real-life struggles. Loved the portrayal of the small oceanside town life. Made me want to move there. The too-perfect ending was what knocked down the rating for me.
Full review on my podcast: https://www.bookwormbanquet.com/2018/...
Charming characters with interesting real-life struggles. Loved the portrayal of the small oceanside town life. Made me want to move there. The too-perfect ending was what knocked down the rating for me.
Full review on my podcast: https://www.bookwormbanquet.com/2018/...
November 6, 2018
I love kitsch & I love feel good especially in Christmas stories--this author does it well. BUT I have already read this story,by the author, just with different character names...
August 31, 2018
A Christmas by the Sea is a warm Christmas story like we have come to expect from Melody Carlson. Wendy Harper and her twelve year old son, Jackson, has had a rough few years. Their husband and father died after a battle with cancer leaving the family with a strained financial situation. Jackson has had a hard time at school with bullying and teasing. When Wendy inherits her grandfather's beach house in Seaside, Maine, it seems an answer to their prayers. Wendy decides they can use the trip to get away for Thanksgiving to get the cottage in shape to sell. Jackson thinks that this is a great new start for them. So, they set out from Ohio and drove to Maine.
Wendy struggles to keep finances above water while she works on the cottage. Jackson won't talk about leaving. Caleb Colton is a local furniture builder and store owner that gets to know Wendy and Jackson. He befriends them and gives advice to Wendy while hiring Jackson as a helper. Jackson quickly makes a friend, rescues a dog and even enrolls himself in school. He tells Wendy to have faith that God will work things out. But Wendy knows that Jackson is a child who doesn't understand the dire straits they are in financially.
This is a heartwarming story of faith and family during the special holiday time of hope and joy.
I received a complimentary ARC from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinion stated are mine only.
Wendy struggles to keep finances above water while she works on the cottage. Jackson won't talk about leaving. Caleb Colton is a local furniture builder and store owner that gets to know Wendy and Jackson. He befriends them and gives advice to Wendy while hiring Jackson as a helper. Jackson quickly makes a friend, rescues a dog and even enrolls himself in school. He tells Wendy to have faith that God will work things out. But Wendy knows that Jackson is a child who doesn't understand the dire straits they are in financially.
This is a heartwarming story of faith and family during the special holiday time of hope and joy.
I received a complimentary ARC from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinion stated are mine only.
January 6, 2020
Ok this was a pretty adorable short little read!
December 13, 2021
Nice story but rather predictable. Wendy Harper inherited a beach cottage from her grandparents. Since she has financial problems she feels that the best thing to do is fix it up and sell it ASAP. She and her son move down there for a few weeks to get the job done. Her son falls in love with the place and is determined to stay. Wendy wishes she could too but knows it's not possible until along comes Caleb Colton who solves all their problems. Roll eyes here. Things like that don't happen in real life. Obviously I'm not a big fan of romance stories.
December 15, 2023
This was a sweet read about a widowed mother and her son. I liked this book and I thought it was cute.
However, the ending was very abrupt and the proposal seemed very ill timed. There wasn't a whole lot of build up to the romance, even though there was some, it just wasn't enough in my opinion to warrant a proposal. Also, Caleb completely goes off on Wendy the chapter before he proposes to her, which really didn't sit right with me either. If the ending was different I would have liked it more.
However, the ending was very abrupt and the proposal seemed very ill timed. There wasn't a whole lot of build up to the romance, even though there was some, it just wasn't enough in my opinion to warrant a proposal. Also, Caleb completely goes off on Wendy the chapter before he proposes to her, which really didn't sit right with me either. If the ending was different I would have liked it more.
December 14, 2021
Melody Carlson is no stranger to Hallmark movie-esque Christmas novellas. Out of her many titles, I chose A Christmas By The Sea as one of my Christmas reads this year. Unfortunately, I found myself disappointed. Is it the short-n-quick novella style’s fault? Is it me? Or did Carlson’s writing just fall flat? I’m not sure, but I’ll share my thoughts below.
The story follows single (widowed) mom, Wendy, and her twelve-going-on-twenty son, Jackson. Her grandfather left her a beachside cottage in small-town Maine, and she and Jackson are going to spend the month between Thanksgiving and Christmas fixing it up to sell. However, there’s a catch: Wendy has not disclosed this plan to Jackson, who thinks they are moving to Seaside to live permanently. What unfolds is a long story about them fixing up the cottage and meeting characters and a brief story that includes the conflict and resolution of the plot.
I’ll start with what I didn’t like, which sadly, is a rather long list. I did not enjoy how the entirety of the plot hinged on Wendy’s constant lying to her son. She intends to tell him in just about every chapter and then never does. This also resolves really easily which seems unbelievable to me. I also really felt like Jackson was a bizarre character. He is supposed to be a 12 year old boy, but he acts like a grown man in a kid’s body. He researches and understands how to do house projects, is invited to help in a wood shop, enrolls himself in middle school without Mom even being present, and more. Now, I think it’s wonderful to portray a well-rounded, respectful pre-teen in books, but Jackson was too much. He was likeable, but I couldn’t get past that he was supposed to be twelve. He seemed to run the show way more than his mother did, and that felt imbalanced to me.
I also felt the plot took too long to get going and wrapped up way too quickly, which is definitely common in both the feel-good Christmas genre, as well as the novella. But I found myself wondering about halfway through the book when the story was going to start getting where it was going. The ending wrapped up in the span of about five pages, and I couldn’t even get the warm fuzzies from that because it was all so fast!
However, despite that lengthy list of dislikes, I did really enjoy the little jaunt to small-town, coastal Maine. I love the beach, and I love the enchanting idea of living in a small beach town. Carlson describes this well, and makes the cottages and shops seem so warm and inviting. While I felt the characters and plot fell a bit flat, I got all the cozy Christmas feelings from the setting. It made me wish I could be sitting in a cottage by the sea, fireplace blazing and hot cocoa in hand.
If you like a good Hallmark story, this is a quick and easy read for you! Maybe you’ll enjoy it a little more than I did.
www.theliteratureladies.com
The story follows single (widowed) mom, Wendy, and her twelve-going-on-twenty son, Jackson. Her grandfather left her a beachside cottage in small-town Maine, and she and Jackson are going to spend the month between Thanksgiving and Christmas fixing it up to sell. However, there’s a catch: Wendy has not disclosed this plan to Jackson, who thinks they are moving to Seaside to live permanently. What unfolds is a long story about them fixing up the cottage and meeting characters and a brief story that includes the conflict and resolution of the plot.
I’ll start with what I didn’t like, which sadly, is a rather long list. I did not enjoy how the entirety of the plot hinged on Wendy’s constant lying to her son. She intends to tell him in just about every chapter and then never does. This also resolves really easily which seems unbelievable to me. I also really felt like Jackson was a bizarre character. He is supposed to be a 12 year old boy, but he acts like a grown man in a kid’s body. He researches and understands how to do house projects, is invited to help in a wood shop, enrolls himself in middle school without Mom even being present, and more. Now, I think it’s wonderful to portray a well-rounded, respectful pre-teen in books, but Jackson was too much. He was likeable, but I couldn’t get past that he was supposed to be twelve. He seemed to run the show way more than his mother did, and that felt imbalanced to me.
I also felt the plot took too long to get going and wrapped up way too quickly, which is definitely common in both the feel-good Christmas genre, as well as the novella. But I found myself wondering about halfway through the book when the story was going to start getting where it was going. The ending wrapped up in the span of about five pages, and I couldn’t even get the warm fuzzies from that because it was all so fast!
However, despite that lengthy list of dislikes, I did really enjoy the little jaunt to small-town, coastal Maine. I love the beach, and I love the enchanting idea of living in a small beach town. Carlson describes this well, and makes the cottages and shops seem so warm and inviting. While I felt the characters and plot fell a bit flat, I got all the cozy Christmas feelings from the setting. It made me wish I could be sitting in a cottage by the sea, fireplace blazing and hot cocoa in hand.
If you like a good Hallmark story, this is a quick and easy read for you! Maybe you’ll enjoy it a little more than I did.
www.theliteratureladies.com
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