Finding Christmas Joy

by Amanda Tero

Can Christmas be anything but bleak and dreary after a breakup?

Instead of planning her wedding on New Year’s Day, Melonie Brown is alone. On a whim, she is spending Christmas at Starlight Lodge to heal from her recent breakup.

Everything around her screams “Christmas Cheer” from the cute, themed road signs to the lodge, which feels like it belongs on a Christmas movie set.

While everyone at the lodge seems happy, Melonie’s search for happiness is lost in her own bitterness.

Is there something that she can take home from this week that will last her for the entire next year … or maybe a lifetime?

Read Finding Christmas Joy to see how Melonie learns a deeper meaning to Christmas and happiness.

Read Finding Christmas Joy for a…
- short, 20-minute read
- Hallmark-vibe short story
- Gospel-centered short story
- read without romance
- Christian Christmas story
- nostalgic snowy lodge feature

Genres: Christmas, Short Stories, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Young Adult, Adult Fiction, Christian

29 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 2018

About the author

Amanda Tero grew up attending a one room school with her eleven siblings—and loved it! She also fell in love with reading to the point her mom withheld her books to get her to do her chores. That love of reading turned into a love of writing YA fiction.

Amanda is a music teacher by day and a literary guide by night, creating stories that whisk readers off to new eras and introduce them to heroic but flawed characters that live out their faith in astonishing ways.

Reviews

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

2023 Reread
Enjoyed reading this story again this year.

Another delightful Christmas story! When I heard that Amanda was writing a new short Christmas story, I was eager to read it. There hasn't been a single story by her that I haven't enjoyed. This one was no exception. The songs, the cookies, the snow . . . all wrapped up with the true meaning of Christmas and joy left me with a satisfied feeling. (Though I didn't want the story to end.)
I know I'll read it again in December.

I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own, and I am going to purchase a copy sometime because I enjoyed it so much.

[Amanda Tero]

Releasing next month, Lord willing!!! :)

I'll confess, this book *did* come after the Christmas season of watching Hallmarks... and just being so sad that they miss the true reason of Christmas joy. So... a Christmas lodge story, but one with deep meaning and hopefully a spiritual message that will minister to the readers!

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding Christmas Joy is a sweet salvation story, written through the eyes of a young woman with a broken heart. Her struggles over finding purpose and joy in her life were dear and delicately shown.

The setting of Starlight Christmas Lodge was so darling!! Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year, and I loved reading about the lodge and the family who ran it.

I would've liked to see more details of Melonie's past and of her breakup. I understand that that wasn't the focus of the story, but I would've been able to feel for her easier if I knew more of what she'd been through. I also would've liked for her ex-fiance to have at least been mentioned after her salvation. Christ brought joy to her heart, but those heartaches still shaped her and brought her to that time in her life.

While not my favorite by this author, Finding Christmas Joy was an enjoyable read with a message I appreciated. Recommended to anyone who loves a good Christmas story!

**I received a free copy of this story from the author in exchange for my honest review.**

[. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So my first thought when thinking about this book is sugar cookies with colorful icing and sprinkles. Christmas always reminds me of that because of traditions with my family.

Anyways, this short story was delightful. This one really stands out from the author's other works, and I noticed she wrote this book differently from the others. Miss Tero really uses this story to bring back the importance of Christmas, that it's about Jesus and not about superficial things like Santa or gifts.

Melonie was hurting from what had happened in her life. She struggled to see everyone else around her so happy, and I know that can be a damper on your own happiness. I found myself to be very curious about Melonie's past, and I wondered more about Josh.

All in all, this was a clean Christmas story and I think it was such a treat to read it. Even though I read it in July. ;)

I was given a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not obligated to give a positive one.

[Addy Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet little short story! Thanks so much, Amanda, for letting me have an ARC.

Christmas is such a great holiday- not only that we get to celebrate Jesus' birth, but that we get to spend time with family and sit by the fire. Not to mention, share gifts. :) I love that Melonie accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior, and she was able to get over the past. I really felt for her when I learned that her three-year engagement was broken off only a little while before the wedding.

Definitely recommend for lovers of Christmas and short stories. :)

Great job, Amanda!

*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review*

[Blabby Gabi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE this story!!!
Usually Christmas stories have the same general feel to them, (cheesy Santa Claus retellings with Jesus tacked on the side), but Finding Christmas Joy has a fresh style and story that captures the magic of a childhood Christmas and leaves you wanting more!
It was beautifully written and you feel as if you are there the whole time❤️❤️❤️
Amanda Tero writes with a similar style to Robin Jones Gunn, (one of my fav authors), so I loved this story even more for that😋
My favorite little description was from the cookie decorating scene-
“A dozen bottles of sprinkles stood like sentinels standing guard over the icing.” :)
I mean how awesome is that!? 😁
It was a long enough story to pull you into Melonie’s life, and short enough to read in one sitting:)
Melanie definitely changes and grows as a character and I loved being able to walk with her through it!
Buuuuut now I can’t date anyone named Josh.... 😂😂😂😂😂 jk!

I loved reading this and wanted to say a big THankyou! to Amanda for sending me an ARC of it:))))))
You NEED to read this people!!!
😋😋❤️

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Finding Christmas Joy
Written By: Amanda Tero
Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Fiction
Recommended Ages: Any

Introduction:
I was privileged to be on the beta-reading team for this book and found this book to be well worth the read. It's short, but powerful.

Characters: 1/1
The characters were well-developed, interesting, and so true to real life. I could actually see something like this truly happening.

Dialogue: 1/1
The dialogue was well done. It had depth and showed off each personality well.

Plot/storyline: .75/1
Amanda Tero has mentioned herself that this short story is similar to Hallmark Christmas movies in some ways and that's probably the only thing that bugged me ever so slightly. Hallmark movies can get a little too predictable. Luckily, that's where Amanda's book differed. It wasn't quite as predictable.

Overall writing quality: 1/1
I loved the writing style in this book. It isn't all that different from the other books I've read by Amanda, but it has a slightly different feel to it. I liked it. And while there were some minor typos when I read it, it has been through a few edits since then, so I'm sure those are gone now.

Un-put-down-ability: 1/1
Well, it is quite short, so it would be hard to put down mainly for that reason. However, even if it were ten times longer, I still would have had a hard time putting it down.

Conclusion: 4.75/5
If you like Hallmark Christmas movies, you'll love this story. If you like a feel good Christmas story, you'll like it. If you need to find joy--Christmas or otherwise--this book is perfect for you. I highly recommend it.

Note: I received this book from the author and was not under any compulsion to write a review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I have read this before. I know this only because my name was listed in the thank you section as an early reader. Hahaha, the things we forget we did.
I thought this was a wonderful story of someone feeling lost at Christmas, and finding true joy and happiness in the redemption of Jesus.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated the message of this little story--that peace and joy aren't found in the trappings and traditions of Christmas but in the One whose birth and death opened the door to fellowship with God. I liked that the salvation message was clear and not vague platitudes--although I would expect nothing less from Amanda Tero. ;)

The Christmas festivities around the lodge sounded fun and old-fashioned, but I had a bit of trouble connecting with Melonie herself. I definitely felt for her; I just never really felt with her, never quite entered into her pain and hurt and confusion the way I wanted to. I know feelings are complicated and contradictory and hard to explain, even to ourselves, but I was a bit confused over what exactly Melonie was hoping for in coming to the lodge. Obviously, she wanted to get away from the familiar, but I couldn't tell if she really wanted to be part of the activities or if she wanted to be by herself. She talked about wanting to bottle up the peaceful feelings, but then grieved that the happiness around her only deepened her pain. There's probably not any real contradiction there; I just had a hard time putting the pieces together in such a short space. I know "I want more" is my normal complaint with short stories, but I feel like a few more scenes here would have slowed the pace and helped me understand Melonie better.

I definitely liked the story and the message and would have given it four stars if I had felt a bit more connected to Melonie. Still very much a worthwhile read. :)

3.5 stars

I received a free copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[C.B. Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was such a sweet short story!! The story didn't drag like a lot of Christmas-themed stories seem to do, and it had such a great message. It felt just like a Hallmark movie (which is actually something the author herself mentioned in an Author's Note and her review), except with a better theme to it: God provides true change, not the "spirit of Christmas."

The descriptions were so vivid and I felt like I could picture everything so well in my head. I also loved the change of heart, although most of the characters other than Melonie weren't very developed. I do think that a chance was missed to make give Patricia a little more development when she was talking to Melonie if she had possibly shared some of the troubles that she and her family had had, but it was a short story, so I didn't mind too much.

Overall, a fun, encouraging read, and a nice bit of Christmas in the middle of the summer!

I received a free copy for review from the author. However, I wasn't required to provide positive feedback.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I read this story in the middle of summer, I was swept away in the images of Christmas cookies, music, and the thought of snow. But ultimately, I felt the joy that this title bears so well.

Melonie is a sweet character, who lacks joy after a break-up. But when she stays at a lodge over Christmas, she may just find the true meaning of Christmas; the true meaning of joy.

Although I would have loved to see more of Melonie's story, I highly recommend this short story to all ages. There is a beautiful portrayal of Salvation, weaving in the REAL meaning of Christmas. It's a sweet short story that will stick with you all year long.

*I received this in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own*

[Hanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Note: I received a copy in return for an honest review.

What a sweet, short, and heartwarming story! I confess I can't quite relate to Melonie; I've never been betrayed in a relationship, I've never attended a Christmas lodge like the one described, and I've never felt quite so hopeless as Melonie. Yet Melonie's struggle was portrayed very well, and it was nice to see the way she changed her mind. It was definitely believable, at least as much as it can be in a short story.

The small cast of characters was appropriate; it was easy to keep the characters clear in my mind; I always knew that Patricia and Richard were the older couple, and Grace and Aaron the younger one. Add the two little girls, and the cast of characters is complete--in more ways than one.

Overall, for a short story, this was sweet and to the point, creating a satisfactory setting, and clearly presenting the Gospel message.

[Sarah Rhomberg]

What gives us joy when our circumstances make joy seem awful? That is what the main character in this short story finds out.

I really liked the author’s style – it was well written. However, the change from the character being stuck in her problem and then everything being good again, was too quick for me. It was a complete flip-the-paper situation that possibly could happen in real life…but doesn’t sound very realistic in a story.

Something I did like was that the author included a section where the gospel was explained at the end of the story.

[A.M. Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I Loved: Tero reminds us that Christmas is more than a season, it's about Someone to have an everlasting relationship with and she uses a common setting--pain-- to bring the message to life. Lots of people feel alone or disjointed during the holidays. Whether you're saved or not, Tero reminds us Who our focus and source of emotions ought to be centered on. 
Finding Christmas Joy is a short story, so we're not given much time with the characters and the cozy setting they bring to life, but the message is one that will stick with you. 

Rating and Recommendation: I give it 5 stars and recommend it to those looking for sweet Christmas moment. 

[R.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, Christmas read! The joys of Christmas I involved made me so happy ... *cough* and kind of ready for the season!

Melanie's struggles were so real and felt my heart go out to her! But we know the Lord is there for anyone in need!

I really enjoyed this short read - definitely great for any age! My younger sisters have enjoyed most of Amanda's short stories, now I can give this one for them to read!

*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review

[Kim Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story that really hit close to home for me. Jesus is the Healer of broken hearts, and what better time of year to remember that than Christmas? I will definitely be adding this story to my yearly "getting me in the Christmas spirit" list!

[Faith M:) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Wow! Wow!

This short story was AMAZING!!! The details were so intricate, the people so lifelike. I felt like I was at the Christmas lodge as one of the guests:)

This was short enough to read in one sitting, but long enough that you become attached to the characters:)

Not only am I obsessed with Christmas, but this story was such an AMAZING way to spread God’s Word. It’s so easy to focus on presents, decorations, etc. that we forget that Christ is the true reason that we celebrate Christmas! This short story was such a great way to combine Christmas fun, and to share God’s Word.

A few critiques...
The story felt rushed at times. The MC’s emotions changed very quickly...
If the story was longer, I would have loved to see Melonie find a great Christian guy;) lol
These are TOTALLY understandable since it is a short story. 😂😂😂

I really enjoyed this! 100% recommend!!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. Thank you so much for letting my read this, Amanda! I will read it many more times! :)

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Christmas Joy is a dear story about finding true joy and peace both in the holiday season and life beyond. As always Amanda did a lovely job creating a meaningful tale with a heartfelt message. :)

[Hannah Foster]

This story is simple and short with a good message. However, I think it simply wasn't for me.

[Rachel Rizzuto · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading 'Finding Christmas Joy'! It was a delightful story of Christmas love and peace in the midst of hurt and grief. Wonderful book Amanda!

[Gera Wilkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming short story showing how a young woman can rise from despair to great rejoicing and love when she finally realizes what the purpose of her life is-to give her life to God and trust in Him for her joy. I enjoyed this book greatly and look forward to reading more from this author!
I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Rebekah Lewis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet, faith-filled book.
A great reminder of why we celebrate Christmas, and Who we celebrate. Melonie was a beautiful character, but I felt she needed more depth. I wish this was a longer book, I'm not a huge fan of novellas. A very good story.
And AMAZING cover!! All the heart eyes! 😍😍

*I received a free ebook copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. *

[Erika Mathews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where can a truly grieving heart find joy amid the painful memories sparked by the Christmas season? Amanda Tero beautifully answers this question in this story. The setting is gorgeous; the activities, enjoyable - but the focus, much deeper. A beautiful Christmas story of hope, healing, and redemption.

[H.S. Kylian · Rating 2 out of 5]

I started reading this almost two years ago, dropped it, and then decided to re-read it. Maybe I should have DNF'd it instead, but oh well.

I think it could've been longer. The characters were underdeveloped, leading to the absence of an arc for the main character. And since she had a breakup, I expected more of a resolution to that, but it didn't happen.

Another thing was that when I started it, I was under the impression Melonie was already a Christian, but then found out she wasn't. Which then led to a somewhat shoehorned-in salvation message.

All in all, it wasn't for me.

[Riette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reminder of Christmas

To be reminded of Christmas and its real meaning as adult made me feel sad at stages. Why is it that we get lost the the worldly purpose of this special day? I miss the innocence of being a child and the memories of this day.

[Esther Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw a brief description of Finding Christmas Joy a while back, and knew I wanted to read it as soon as I saw it. I’ve enjoyed every Tero book I’ve read so far, so I knew this would probably be a goodie. And although this released in a month that many would consider the wrong season (summer), I was able to read it in our winter (southern hemisphere), so it seemed to fit perfectly!

This book is a beautiful story. It captures the homeyness of Christmas, the joy that’s often found around that time, and also shares the pain and struggle that many have over that time as well. It’s never easy to have relationships crumble around you—as human beings, we weren’t meant to have to go through that. But since sin has entered the world, that happens, and the results can often be devastating. Emotionally speaking, anyway.

Seeing the main character struggle through sorrow at a time when all should be peace and happiness was touching. Yet the author did an amazing job showing the beauty of what happens when you work through pain to find healing.

I loved this book. It was short, perhaps somewhat cliché, but it was a delightful read.

And just a warning before you start: it may make you want to make yourself a cup of hot chocolate. As soon as I read one particular scene, I was on the run for the kitchen. And whether I needed it or not, wow…it tasted good! ;)

I requested a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

[Abigail Harris]

My Review

Genre: Christian, Christmas, Fiction, (AMAZING!!!)

My Rating: 5 Stars.

Recommendation: I highly recommend this as a family read.

My favorite character/s: All of them, I enjoyed this little story soooo much. It was such a cute story that showed the true meaning of Christmas as well as Salvation. I totally loved it. I will probably read it again soon (like tomorrow)!

My Verse for Luke 2:30
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, King James Version

My thoughts: It was like a Hallmark movie yet totally better! (What more can I say?)

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Christmas Joy is a short novella about finding the one thing in life that fills the void and helps bring joy and peace to your heart. A very well-written story filled with hope, peace, love and friendships. Melonie Brown was trying to run away from heartbreak but little did she know that God already had a plan to heal her heart.

I loved the characters in the story and found them to be easy to become close to. I found myself engrossed in the story wondering what would happen next. Can't wait to read the author's next book. 5 Stars and highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.

[Nicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melonie is trying to escape heartache and chooses Starlight Lodge as the place to do it. Life has thrown her some curves lately and she's having trouble dealing with the trappings of Christmas in particular and life in general. At Starlight, she gets pulled into the joy and peace that is a Christ centered Christmas. While this is probably what she is really seeking, she weakly fights it at first. As this is a short story, the characters are not fully fleshed out but the message here is clear and is uplifting.
I did receive a copy from the author.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy for my honest review. This book was real good! Got me in the mood for Christmas and baking cookies! I love reading Christian books that include salvation! I just wish it was as easy and fast as how it happened in this book. In most cases I have seen people ignore whoever is talking to them about salvation and they don’t want to hear it. Other than that it was a good book. Just wish it was longer!