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If I Were You #2
The Wish Book Christmas
From the bestselling author of If I Were You comes a nostalgic and endearing holiday story that reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful gifts are the ones we least expect and don’t deserve.Best friends Audrey Barrett and Eve Dawson are looking forward to celebrating Christmas in postwar America, thrilled at the prospect of starting new traditions with their five-year-old sons. But when the 1951 Sears Christmas Wish Book arrives and the boys start obsessing over every toy in it, Audrey and Eve realize they must first teach them the true significance of the holiday. They begin by helping Bobby and Harry plan gifts of encouragement and service for those in their community, starting by walking an elderly neighbor’s yellow Lab—since a dog topped the boys’ wish list for Santa. In the charming tale that follows, Audrey and Eve are surprised to find their own hearts healing from the tragedies of war and opening to the possibility of forgiveness and new love.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2021
333 people are currently reading
2185 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Austin
69 books5,580 followersFor many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 672 reviews
November 8, 2021
This cover first caught my eye, and then the title. After that the premise sounded sweet! Two boys in 1951 flipping through the Sears Wish Catalogue and wanting all the toys. What a Christmas nostalgic memory! I can remember looking through the Sears catalogue myself and circling all the things I wanted too.
It's a sweet and meaningful story. This is a Christian Christmas book and I don't usually read this genre but I can make exceptions especially at Christmas time. This would make a great little TV movie!
This one's a joy. It's a heartwarming reminder about new beginnings and the lessons of giving. 🎄
It's a sweet and meaningful story. This is a Christian Christmas book and I don't usually read this genre but I can make exceptions especially at Christmas time. This would make a great little TV movie!
This one's a joy. It's a heartwarming reminder about new beginnings and the lessons of giving. 🎄
December 16, 2023
A charming and inspirational Christmas story.🎄🎁
When the 1951 Sears Christmas Wish Book arrived, Bobby and Harry, both 5-year-olds wanted everything in the book (and who can blame them!). Eve and Audrey think they have to show their sons the true meaning of Christmas.
This is book #2 and I haven't read the first book. I had no problem following the story and characters who moved from England to Connecticut after WWII. Overall, a feel-good Christmas story about loss, giving, friendship, faith, and second-chance romance.
When the 1951 Sears Christmas Wish Book arrived, Bobby and Harry, both 5-year-olds wanted everything in the book (and who can blame them!). Eve and Audrey think they have to show their sons the true meaning of Christmas.
This is book #2 and I haven't read the first book. I had no problem following the story and characters who moved from England to Connecticut after WWII. Overall, a feel-good Christmas story about loss, giving, friendship, faith, and second-chance romance.
December 4, 2021
This is going to be my favorite holiday read this year. I can tell already. Wish I could give it ten stars. What a treat to revisit Audrey and Eve and their boys at Christmas time in Connecticut. The Sears Wish Book causes quite a stir in their little household and their wise handling of the situation helps the boys to learn about the true spirit of Christmas. The summary of their Christmas Eve homily/sermon is such a beautiful representation of what this holiday really means. And the description of the Kindergarten Nativity play is priceless. If you loved If I Were You, you simply must pick this up to finish the story. It is amazing. Thank you for the gift of this book, Lynn Austin!
Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift ~ I Cor. 9:15
Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift ~ I Cor. 9:15
October 22, 2021
Beautiful story filled with the Spirit of Christmas. I will admit the cover and title of this book made me want to read it . When my little brother and I still believed in Santa Claus the Christmas Wish Book meant a lot to us. As soon as it came in the mail we would spend hours searching the pages to see what we could order from Santa. Next we would write a letter and tell him what we wanted for Christmas. Of course we knew we wouldn't be getting everything we put in our list of things we hoped to find under the tree on Christmas morning. In fact when times were hard there might not be any of the things we had put on the list. But the excitement of looking through that Wish Book from Sears each year has stayed with me through the years and this book brings back a lot of memories because I grew up during the post war years. Christmases like the one in this story was the kind my family celebrated each year.
I found this book to be entertaining and an easy to read page turner. I loved the characters and that the two single mothers tried to teach their young boys the true meaning of Christmas. They not only taught it to their boys but they acted out the true meaning of Christmas for the boys and their neighbor.
This story takes place during the WWII post war years. Two mothers, one a single lady named Eve Dawson and one a widow named Audrey Barrett, try to teach their two Kindergarten aged sons what Christmas really means and why it's celebrated each year. When the Sears Wish Book arrives in the mail the boys are enchanted by all the pages of toys in the catalog. They spend hours upon hours searching those pages and wanting everything they seen there. Eve and Audrey can't afford everything they're asking for so they ask the boys to pick one item on each page. The two mothers make plans to teach the children about the birth of Jesus and who he was. A beautiful story unfolds on the pages of this book. Will the boys grasp the true meaning of the holiday?
I recommend this book to readers of Christian Fiction and fans of the Author. It's a wonderful Christmas read and would be great as a family book too. I read it as a stand alone and thought it was great. Five stars!
I borrowed this book from the library. A review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I found this book to be entertaining and an easy to read page turner. I loved the characters and that the two single mothers tried to teach their young boys the true meaning of Christmas. They not only taught it to their boys but they acted out the true meaning of Christmas for the boys and their neighbor.
This story takes place during the WWII post war years. Two mothers, one a single lady named Eve Dawson and one a widow named Audrey Barrett, try to teach their two Kindergarten aged sons what Christmas really means and why it's celebrated each year. When the Sears Wish Book arrives in the mail the boys are enchanted by all the pages of toys in the catalog. They spend hours upon hours searching those pages and wanting everything they seen there. Eve and Audrey can't afford everything they're asking for so they ask the boys to pick one item on each page. The two mothers make plans to teach the children about the birth of Jesus and who he was. A beautiful story unfolds on the pages of this book. Will the boys grasp the true meaning of the holiday?
I recommend this book to readers of Christian Fiction and fans of the Author. It's a wonderful Christmas read and would be great as a family book too. I read it as a stand alone and thought it was great. Five stars!
I borrowed this book from the library. A review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 27, 2021
This sweet and poignant Christmas novella is a follow-up story to Austin's best-selling novel "If I Were You." We are taken back into Evie and Audrey's world at Christmas, and the boys are mesmerized by the Sears Christmas Catalog and all the toys they want. Their mothers begin to show them the true meaning of Christmas, and along the way learn a few lessons for themselves.
This wonderful little novella transports us to the Christmas season and reminds us that giving is so much more rewarding than receiving. As their boys learn lessons about the joys of helping others, Evie and Audrey learn about forgiveness, redemption, and new beginnings. This special story will brighten up your Christmas season and bring joy to your heart.
Although this can be read as a standalone, reading "If I Were You" first is recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
This wonderful little novella transports us to the Christmas season and reminds us that giving is so much more rewarding than receiving. As their boys learn lessons about the joys of helping others, Evie and Audrey learn about forgiveness, redemption, and new beginnings. This special story will brighten up your Christmas season and bring joy to your heart.
Although this can be read as a standalone, reading "If I Were You" first is recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
December 9, 2021
Take a trip back to yesteryear in this spirit of Christmas filled book. The perfect companion to If I Were You by the same author. It's not required to read it before this one but it tells the stories of the mothers of the two little boys featured in this story.
This is a wonderful story of two little boys who live together with their mothers and they are best friends and just like brothers. Just like typical young kids when the Wish Book comes in the mail they are consumed with it ,spending all their free time reading it and making long lists.
The women are concerned that the boys don't know the true meaning of Christmas, it sure isn't about toys.
It's very heartwarming to see how the boys became more mature as they were taught the true meaning of Christmas and how their hearts opened to Christ and goodness.
Very warm upbeat book I recommend to everyone.
Pub Date 07 Sep 2021
I as given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a wonderful story of two little boys who live together with their mothers and they are best friends and just like brothers. Just like typical young kids when the Wish Book comes in the mail they are consumed with it ,spending all their free time reading it and making long lists.
The women are concerned that the boys don't know the true meaning of Christmas, it sure isn't about toys.
It's very heartwarming to see how the boys became more mature as they were taught the true meaning of Christmas and how their hearts opened to Christ and goodness.
Very warm upbeat book I recommend to everyone.
Pub Date 07 Sep 2021
I as given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
December 9, 2022
Thanks to my friend Oceana for this amazing Christmas book rec! I loved this so much. 4 stars. This book is meant to be read after "If I Were You" and I really need to pick that up soon since it's on my shelf! I loved these characters! We got just enough of the backstory that I really want to learn more about these amazing women and their journeys.
This book is set in 1951 Connecticut where little Bobby Barrett and Harry Dawson are obsessed with the new Sears Chrtistmas Wish Book that arrived and are dying to get every toy in the book from Santa this year. Both of their mothers are single moms who live together with their litte boys and they begin to wonder if the boys will truly know what the true meaning of Christmas is - Jesus! They teach them all about the meaning of Christmas using the Wise Men through a school play and it was so beautiful. What a hearwarming story that truly taught us the meaning of Christmas. I listened to this on audio and the narrator did such a great job.
This book is set in 1951 Connecticut where little Bobby Barrett and Harry Dawson are obsessed with the new Sears Chrtistmas Wish Book that arrived and are dying to get every toy in the book from Santa this year. Both of their mothers are single moms who live together with their litte boys and they begin to wonder if the boys will truly know what the true meaning of Christmas is - Jesus! They teach them all about the meaning of Christmas using the Wise Men through a school play and it was so beautiful. What a hearwarming story that truly taught us the meaning of Christmas. I listened to this on audio and the narrator did such a great job.
November 23, 2021
1951 Connecticut
Endearing Christmas novella that picks up about a year after where If I Were You left off. Two main themes: teaching young Bobby and Harry that Christmas is more than receiving gifts and adult characters learning that moving on doesn't mean that you no longer love the one you lost.
I loved seeing the character growth in Eve and Audrey.
Endearing Christmas novella that picks up about a year after where If I Were You left off. Two main themes: teaching young Bobby and Harry that Christmas is more than receiving gifts and adult characters learning that moving on doesn't mean that you no longer love the one you lost.
I loved seeing the character growth in Eve and Audrey.
October 23, 2021
This book was filled with my childhood memories. As a post war baby, i was two when this story takes place. I am very familiar with the Sears Wish Book, the TV shows and toys of the era. We even had a Buick Roadmaster in baby blue with a white top. And I had a Davy Crockett outfit instead of Roy Rogers.
“We each owe a debt that we can never repay. But God has reached down from heaven to pay it for us by giving us the gift of Jesus.”
Ms. Austin captured the excitement and childish joy of the two five year old boys, Harry and Bobby. It was fun to watch what they and their mothers were up to since meeting them in If I Were You. The author used the relationship of Eve and Audrey to show how people can forgive, change for the better and have a fresh start with new goals. I liked the way the mothers tried to get the boys to refocus the their wants into doing something special for someone in need. A lesson we could all learn. A highlight was the Christmas Play with all the shenanigans but a true message of Christ came through. A great book filled with the real spirit of Christmas.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
“We each owe a debt that we can never repay. But God has reached down from heaven to pay it for us by giving us the gift of Jesus.”
Ms. Austin captured the excitement and childish joy of the two five year old boys, Harry and Bobby. It was fun to watch what they and their mothers were up to since meeting them in If I Were You. The author used the relationship of Eve and Audrey to show how people can forgive, change for the better and have a fresh start with new goals. I liked the way the mothers tried to get the boys to refocus the their wants into doing something special for someone in need. A lesson we could all learn. A highlight was the Christmas Play with all the shenanigans but a true message of Christ came through. A great book filled with the real spirit of Christmas.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
December 7, 2022
THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS.
This book is clearly the second book in a story called “If I Were You” by Lynn Austin.
That didn’t take away from my enjoyment. In fact, it made me want to read If I Were You!
It follows two single moms living together with their sons. The boys get a wish book catalogue and start circling all the toys they want and what they’ll say to Santa when they see him. The moms are worried that the boys don’t understand the true meaning of Christmas - that Jesus was born to save the world!
They start on a mission to teach the boys about giving and sacrifice at Christmastime.
The moms get their own growth story as well! They each are raising their boys as single parents for a different reason and long to prove themselves capable all while having lovely gentlemen in their lives who admire and love them already.
The faith was amazing! They went to church and Sunday school and learned about Jesus. It was beautiful.
The audiobook was excellent! The narrator did the accents so well and told the story in an engaging way. For someone who doesn’t tend to like audiobooks, I truly loved this one! I could listen to this narrator all day.
4 stars because there were some parts that bored me. Not a lot but enough that my attention wandered sometimes. I definitely want to read If I Were You now! Highly recommend!
This book is clearly the second book in a story called “If I Were You” by Lynn Austin.
That didn’t take away from my enjoyment. In fact, it made me want to read If I Were You!
It follows two single moms living together with their sons. The boys get a wish book catalogue and start circling all the toys they want and what they’ll say to Santa when they see him. The moms are worried that the boys don’t understand the true meaning of Christmas - that Jesus was born to save the world!
They start on a mission to teach the boys about giving and sacrifice at Christmastime.
The moms get their own growth story as well! They each are raising their boys as single parents for a different reason and long to prove themselves capable all while having lovely gentlemen in their lives who admire and love them already.
The faith was amazing! They went to church and Sunday school and learned about Jesus. It was beautiful.
The audiobook was excellent! The narrator did the accents so well and told the story in an engaging way. For someone who doesn’t tend to like audiobooks, I truly loved this one! I could listen to this narrator all day.
4 stars because there were some parts that bored me. Not a lot but enough that my attention wandered sometimes. I definitely want to read If I Were You now! Highly recommend!
December 26, 2021
Loved going back to the characters of If I Were You! It was a charming novel about going back to the heart of Christmas and being in the spirit of giving. So good!
December 22, 2024
This is literally the PERFECT Christmas story. A nice short length, but so wholesome. I've never read a book that so perfectly illustrates and puts into practice the true meaning of CHRISTmas!
The free gift of salvation through Christ reminds us that this is the season of giving, not getting, just as the Wise Men exampled so well all those years ago. Harry and Bobby were such great examples of how kids can get wrapped up in the gifts, but how they can also be taught to give joyfully.
As the book came to an end, Eve and Audrey fully realized that they weren't accepting God's and others free gifts of forgiveness and second chances in their lives and came to surrender all their grief and worry just as God calls us to do through the greatest Christmas gift of all time, His Son. The real and relatable full circle moments with these characters and the heartwarming messages in those moments got me every time.
Now I need to read If I Were You! I truly can't think of a better read to get your soul focused on the reason for the season and to fill you up with lots of peace, warmth, and joy than this one. Definitely a favorite and something I will reread!!
The free gift of salvation through Christ reminds us that this is the season of giving, not getting, just as the Wise Men exampled so well all those years ago. Harry and Bobby were such great examples of how kids can get wrapped up in the gifts, but how they can also be taught to give joyfully.
As the book came to an end, Eve and Audrey fully realized that they weren't accepting God's and others free gifts of forgiveness and second chances in their lives and came to surrender all their grief and worry just as God calls us to do through the greatest Christmas gift of all time, His Son. The real and relatable full circle moments with these characters and the heartwarming messages in those moments got me every time.
Now I need to read If I Were You! I truly can't think of a better read to get your soul focused on the reason for the season and to fill you up with lots of peace, warmth, and joy than this one. Definitely a favorite and something I will reread!!
September 8, 2021
The Wish Book Christmas by Lynn Austin has Eve Dawson and Audrey Barrett worried about their sons, Harry and Bobby. They boys discovered The Sears Wish Book and have been consumed with it. They have a long list of toys they want Santa to bring them for Christmas. Eve and Audrey want to the boys to know the true meaning of Christmas. After watching the boys play wise men in the school play, they come up with a plan. The Wish Book Christmas is a continuation of If I Were You. I was not aware that there had been a prior book until I started reading The Wish Book Christmas. I felt liked I was plopped into the middle of a story, so I went investigating. The author does provide the necessary background information so it technically can be read as a standalone. Personally, I believe I would have enjoyed the book more if I had read If I Were You first. I thought The Wish Book Christmas was well-written with developed characters. Once I got into the story, I was engaged. I liked how the mothers went about teaching their sons the true meaning of Christmas. The Wish Book Christmas is a heartwarming story that will put you in the mood for the holidays. It is a book that will get you to thinking about how you can help others this holiday season. There are many types of gifts you can give someone, and they do not involve purchasing an item in a store (or by purchasing a gift card). The ending was very special and will leave you smiling. The Wish Book Christmas is a story about forgiveness, hope, family, moving on, joy, and the true meaning of Christmas. The Wish Book Christmas is a heartwarming holiday novel with a wish list of toys, a cavorting canine, shoveling snow, a decked-out Christmas tree, a gracious God, finding forgiveness, firm friends, and a happy holiday.
August 19, 2021
What a gift this read was! Not only is the story such a great lesson of giving, and leading the next generation, it is an update on the lives of a previous wonderful book "If I Were You", and yes, I suggest you read it, but this can be read alone.
This was a present that as I opened it, it kept on giving, with each page I turned the wrapping gave up more, I just didn't want it to end!
These two little boys make for a delightful, and at times laugh out loud read, and then add in a dog! The kindergarten play is a wonderful treat, and following these woman from England to the states has been an adventure!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale House, and was not required to give a positive review.
This was a present that as I opened it, it kept on giving, with each page I turned the wrapping gave up more, I just didn't want it to end!
These two little boys make for a delightful, and at times laugh out loud read, and then add in a dog! The kindergarten play is a wonderful treat, and following these woman from England to the states has been an adventure!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale House, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 9, 2021
A delightful story following closely on the heels of the novel, If I Were You. Highly recommend reading that book first, otherwise there would be many spoilers.
This is a story full of joy and hope, with the anticipation of Christmas and something new as Eve and Audrey face their future. The little boys are charming and add a spark of excitement to the seasonal tale. Their sweet innocence is refreshing as they turn from the wanting-every-toy-in-the-catalog phase to learning the joy of giving to others. The author seamlessly works a redemptive message into the narrative as the true meaning of Christmas shines through.
The transformation in Eve is lovely as she must learn to forgive herself in order to move on. Audrey likewise has her own lessons to learn.
It was a satisfying read overall and a nice way to round out the story begun in If I Were You. It made me feel a bit nostalgic with the mention of songs and other traditions from the 1950's.
A fun read anytime of the year. Recommend!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
This is a story full of joy and hope, with the anticipation of Christmas and something new as Eve and Audrey face their future. The little boys are charming and add a spark of excitement to the seasonal tale. Their sweet innocence is refreshing as they turn from the wanting-every-toy-in-the-catalog phase to learning the joy of giving to others. The author seamlessly works a redemptive message into the narrative as the true meaning of Christmas shines through.
The transformation in Eve is lovely as she must learn to forgive herself in order to move on. Audrey likewise has her own lessons to learn.
It was a satisfying read overall and a nice way to round out the story begun in If I Were You. It made me feel a bit nostalgic with the mention of songs and other traditions from the 1950's.
A fun read anytime of the year. Recommend!
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.)
December 13, 2022
This is the only Christmas book I have read so far this Christmas season and I just wanted to share my thoughts on the book. It is a book I highly recommend!
My thoughts: Something I really loved about this story was that it was a Christmas story centered around giving, (instead of the typical romance Christmas stories; not that those are bad,) and it was so amazing to see the progression in these two little 5 year old boys, about how they were dreading giving to people in need to at the end of the book, now having gained this heart of giving and wanting to truly give to others and immediately thinking of way to do that. I truly adored this heartwarming Christmas story.
Description of the story: This book is the sequel to If I Were You and I wouldn’t say that there were any spoilers in this book. I will leave a tag above so that you can find my review of If I Were You.
Two single Moms; Audrey and Eve are looking forward to celebrating Christmas in America now that the war is over with their 5 year old sons Harry and Bobby. Harry and Bobby are also very excited for Christmas, but the 1951 Sears Christmas WishBook arrives and they want every single toy from every single page. This really concerns Audrey and Eve and they are concerned that Harry and Bobby don’t understand the true meaning of Christmas; Jesus’s birthday. Audrey and Eve also don’t want their boys to become selfish and only think of themselves so they come up with the idea for their son to be wisemen and give three gifts to people in need. This is not an easy thing for them to do, but through the story, they being to realize how important it is to do what they are doing.
But the one thing Harry and Bobby can't find in the Christmas Wish Book is a dad and they both would really like a dad. And so Audrey and Eve both have to open themselves to the possibility of marriage again even though they think it is too soon or that they are undeserving of love again.
My thoughts: Something I really loved about this story was that it was a Christmas story centered around giving, (instead of the typical romance Christmas stories; not that those are bad,) and it was so amazing to see the progression in these two little 5 year old boys, about how they were dreading giving to people in need to at the end of the book, now having gained this heart of giving and wanting to truly give to others and immediately thinking of way to do that. I truly adored this heartwarming Christmas story.
Description of the story: This book is the sequel to If I Were You and I wouldn’t say that there were any spoilers in this book. I will leave a tag above so that you can find my review of If I Were You.
Two single Moms; Audrey and Eve are looking forward to celebrating Christmas in America now that the war is over with their 5 year old sons Harry and Bobby. Harry and Bobby are also very excited for Christmas, but the 1951 Sears Christmas WishBook arrives and they want every single toy from every single page. This really concerns Audrey and Eve and they are concerned that Harry and Bobby don’t understand the true meaning of Christmas; Jesus’s birthday. Audrey and Eve also don’t want their boys to become selfish and only think of themselves so they come up with the idea for their son to be wisemen and give three gifts to people in need. This is not an easy thing for them to do, but through the story, they being to realize how important it is to do what they are doing.
But the one thing Harry and Bobby can't find in the Christmas Wish Book is a dad and they both would really like a dad. And so Audrey and Eve both have to open themselves to the possibility of marriage again even though they think it is too soon or that they are undeserving of love again.
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December 9, 2021This is going to be my favorite holiday read this year. I can tell already. Wish I could give it ten stars. What a treat to revisit Audrey and Eve and their boys at Christmas time in Connecticut. The Sears Wish Book causes quite a stir in their little household and their wise handling of the situation helps the boys to learn about the true spirit of Christmas. The summary of their Christmas Eve homily/sermon is such a beautiful representation of what this holiday really means. And the description of the Kindergarten Nativity play is priceless. If you loved "If I Were You," you simply must pick this up to finish the story. It is amazing. Thank you for the gift of this book, Lynn Austin!
*Reviewed by Darla from Red Bridge*
*Reviewed by Darla from Red Bridge*
May 11, 2021
The Wish Book Christmas by Lynn Austin is a wonderful, heartwarming, endearing, and excellent post-WWII era historical fiction that really placed me into a festive mood.
This book takes place in the years after the conclusion of WWII in Connecticut. The characters are those from Ms. Austin’s stunning book, If I Were You. While one most certainly does not need to read its predecessor, as I did, this book will be appreciated even more so if this is read as a follow up. The author does a fabulous job giving summaries of the character backgrounds so that it can be picked up here easily.
We see now how life is for Audrey Barrett, her son Bobby, and Eve Dawson and her son Harry after the settling of previous errors. All are living in Audrey’s home and all are trying to find their footing in this new world. Both women are dealing with personal and romantic conflicts, conundrums, and trying to sort out their feelings. This is all going on amongst the wonderful backdrop of the vintage, New England, classic Christmas.
The author transported me into a world where I could feel the snow crunch under my heels, the wind nipping my face, and i feel like I could almost see the warm glow of twinkling lights through the windows. She was able to provide a stunning description of where these characters lived and what they experienced.
I loved the wonderful messages presented: the true meaning of Christmas, the important roles of family, friends, and helping out those around us. I loved the romance plots that were balanced perfectly with what Audrey and Eve wanted to accomplish on their own as independent women. Their struggles with finding this balance all the while raising their young sons is a daily task that all parents, women especially, face.
I enjoyed all of the plots, the wonderful character cast, and I truly enjoyed the warm, heartfelt, and perfect ending.
A great Christmas read that has history, family, faith, and heart that everyone will love and appreciate.
5/5 stars
Thank you EW and Tyndale House Publishers for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/7/21.
This book takes place in the years after the conclusion of WWII in Connecticut. The characters are those from Ms. Austin’s stunning book, If I Were You. While one most certainly does not need to read its predecessor, as I did, this book will be appreciated even more so if this is read as a follow up. The author does a fabulous job giving summaries of the character backgrounds so that it can be picked up here easily.
We see now how life is for Audrey Barrett, her son Bobby, and Eve Dawson and her son Harry after the settling of previous errors. All are living in Audrey’s home and all are trying to find their footing in this new world. Both women are dealing with personal and romantic conflicts, conundrums, and trying to sort out their feelings. This is all going on amongst the wonderful backdrop of the vintage, New England, classic Christmas.
The author transported me into a world where I could feel the snow crunch under my heels, the wind nipping my face, and i feel like I could almost see the warm glow of twinkling lights through the windows. She was able to provide a stunning description of where these characters lived and what they experienced.
I loved the wonderful messages presented: the true meaning of Christmas, the important roles of family, friends, and helping out those around us. I loved the romance plots that were balanced perfectly with what Audrey and Eve wanted to accomplish on their own as independent women. Their struggles with finding this balance all the while raising their young sons is a daily task that all parents, women especially, face.
I enjoyed all of the plots, the wonderful character cast, and I truly enjoyed the warm, heartfelt, and perfect ending.
A great Christmas read that has history, family, faith, and heart that everyone will love and appreciate.
5/5 stars
Thank you EW and Tyndale House Publishers for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/7/21.
November 29, 2021
Ugh! I had such high hopes for this book! The cover is beautiful, the title is intriguing, and as I said, I was really excited about this story. I have loved several of this authors books, so that was another reason that I was looking forward to the book. Then I read it, and I just did not care for it at all. The story fell flat, the characters were just eh, and the reason that I give this book only 1 star is the ending of this book. The story built up so much and then it just ended, it just stopped. It was the most abrupt ending in a book I have ever read!!!! I was so disappointed!!!!
December 7, 2025
It’s Christmas reading time, so I’ve been picking out the books I want to read, and saw this one on the author’s social media. I loved her book “If I Were You” when I read it a couple years ago, so when I saw she had a Christmas novella, I grabbed it immediately from my library and started it. Because I grabbed it without even reading the description (oops) I didn’t realize until I was a chapter in that this is actually a follow up story to “If I Were You.” Given how many books she has out, and that’s the only one I’ve read so far, that was a happy surprise!
And what an excellent follow-up it was! After the first chapter from the perspective of Eve and Audrey’s sons, I wasn’t sure how deep this was going to go, but it actually did go very deep with the themes, and further developing Eve and Audrey’s characters after everything that happened in “If I Were You.”
As a side note, for those who haven’t read the original book yet, I think you could read this Christmas novella easily enough without having read the main book. However, you will definitely be wanting all the details about what happened when they mention things like the way that Eve impersonated Audrey for four years!
That said, I really loved the way that the author used this novella to deal with the long-term consequences of what happened between the two friends, even as they try to teach their sons that the true meaning of Christmas goes so much deeper than just getting all the toys you want. The impersonation issue got dealt with long before this novella started, but Eve is still struggling with guilt about what she did, to the point that she refuses to allow herself to move on in life until she earns enough money to pay Audrey back for everything she stole while pretending to be her. Something Audrey never asked her to do.
The balance between the boys’ storyline and their mothers’ was exactly the way it needed to be as they learned important lessons side-by-side. I just loved that they learned from each other the way that they did.
It’s a short book, so I don’t want to give away everything, but to me, this was both a beautiful Christmas read and an excellent mini sequel to “If I Were You.” I’m so glad to have stumbled upon it, and I would love to read it again in future Christmases.
Content Advisory:
Language:
None.
Violence/Scariness:
Barely anything at all. Passing mentions of the war that Audrey and Eve lived through, their experience driving ambulances during that time, and a passing mention of the fact that their mothers were simultaneously killed in the same bombing.
Sexual/Romance:
Very sweet, mild romance with some hand-holding, dancing, and a kiss.
Spiritual:
This is Christian fiction with faith themes throughout.
And what an excellent follow-up it was! After the first chapter from the perspective of Eve and Audrey’s sons, I wasn’t sure how deep this was going to go, but it actually did go very deep with the themes, and further developing Eve and Audrey’s characters after everything that happened in “If I Were You.”
As a side note, for those who haven’t read the original book yet, I think you could read this Christmas novella easily enough without having read the main book. However, you will definitely be wanting all the details about what happened when they mention things like the way that Eve impersonated Audrey for four years!
That said, I really loved the way that the author used this novella to deal with the long-term consequences of what happened between the two friends, even as they try to teach their sons that the true meaning of Christmas goes so much deeper than just getting all the toys you want. The impersonation issue got dealt with long before this novella started, but Eve is still struggling with guilt about what she did, to the point that she refuses to allow herself to move on in life until she earns enough money to pay Audrey back for everything she stole while pretending to be her. Something Audrey never asked her to do.
The balance between the boys’ storyline and their mothers’ was exactly the way it needed to be as they learned important lessons side-by-side. I just loved that they learned from each other the way that they did.
It’s a short book, so I don’t want to give away everything, but to me, this was both a beautiful Christmas read and an excellent mini sequel to “If I Were You.” I’m so glad to have stumbled upon it, and I would love to read it again in future Christmases.
Content Advisory:
Language:
None.
Violence/Scariness:
Barely anything at all. Passing mentions of the war that Audrey and Eve lived through, their experience driving ambulances during that time, and a passing mention of the fact that their mothers were simultaneously killed in the same bombing.
Sexual/Romance:
Very sweet, mild romance with some hand-holding, dancing, and a kiss.
Spiritual:
This is Christian fiction with faith themes throughout.
November 21, 2021
While A Wish Book Christmas by Lynn Austin stands on its own two feet, it is also a follow up story to Eve and Audrey from If I Were You.
This novel is a quick read filled with nostalgia as two little boys’ mothers strive to teach them the true meaning of Christmas. I loved how the boys quickly got into the spirit of giving to those less fortunate than them. Sure, there was some grumbling at first but once they got started, the boys embraced their project with enthusiasm. I also loved how Eve and Audrey were challenged and blessed by watching their boys.
There are moments of humor (especially during the children’s Christmas program) and the heartfelt ending will warm your heart and have you ready for the holidays. And added bonus is the beautiful hardcover book. It makes a wonderful gift or stocking stuffer for someone you love in and of itself.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This novel is a quick read filled with nostalgia as two little boys’ mothers strive to teach them the true meaning of Christmas. I loved how the boys quickly got into the spirit of giving to those less fortunate than them. Sure, there was some grumbling at first but once they got started, the boys embraced their project with enthusiasm. I also loved how Eve and Audrey were challenged and blessed by watching their boys.
There are moments of humor (especially during the children’s Christmas program) and the heartfelt ending will warm your heart and have you ready for the holidays. And added bonus is the beautiful hardcover book. It makes a wonderful gift or stocking stuffer for someone you love in and of itself.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
November 13, 2025
so so sweet😭🫶 I had no clue until several minutes into the book that this is a sequel to If I Were You, and it was so much fun to see the characters again. Just one more example why Lynn Austin is a favorite. I'll refrain from going off about Santa Claus tho😂
January 15, 2025
This was such a good Christmas story, showcasing the true meaning of Christmas and God's love for us! I'm guessing this is part of a series maybe so I'll need to seek out the rest of the books!
December 3, 2022
This is still a really lovely story. I think I liked the first book better. However, a fun Christmas read with a message we can all stand to hear over and over again of forgiveness and God's endless love for us.
July 20, 2021
This is a sweet story that will bring a smile to your face and warm feelings to your heart as author Lynn Austin pens an enjoyable sequel to her novel If I Were You, bringing back all the characters in Audrey Barrett and Eve Dawson’s circle of friends and family. The story is set in 1951 and opens with Harry and Bobby browsing the Sears Christmas Wish Book dreaming of the wonderful toys they could ask Santa for, hoping they would be good enough to stay off the naughty list.
Audrey and Eve would like their sons to realize there is more to Christmas than getting lots of toys. Harry and Bobby are in a Christmas pageant and play one of the kings. Their mothers get the idea to give gifts like the kings did. So, Audrey and Eve start brainstorming about what their children could give people that would spread Christmas cheer and help them learn more about the true meaning of Christmas. The gifts they gave did not have to cost money. Their boys could give gifts that would be worth more than the ones they brought in the store.
I liked how the author talked about grieving and learning to live and love again. I enjoyed what the author had to say, ‘The Wish Book Christmas was a fun extra project in an otherwise not-so-fun-year. I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting best friends Eve Dawson and Audrey Clarkson and their sons, Harry and Bobby, and seeing where life had taken them after the final pages of If I Were You.” Inspiration sprang from my own memories of the Christmas Wish Book, published each year by Sears, Roebuck and Co. Like Bobby and Harry, my two sisters and I would study the catalog pages, dreaming of all the presents we’d find beneath the tree on Christmas morning….” It’s my hope and prayer that The Wish Book Christmas will brighten and inspire your Christmas celebration this season.”
This is a nostalgic blast from the past filled with hope, love, and the celebration of life. The author includes eight discussions to help create a lively discussion for your book club meeting.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
Audrey and Eve would like their sons to realize there is more to Christmas than getting lots of toys. Harry and Bobby are in a Christmas pageant and play one of the kings. Their mothers get the idea to give gifts like the kings did. So, Audrey and Eve start brainstorming about what their children could give people that would spread Christmas cheer and help them learn more about the true meaning of Christmas. The gifts they gave did not have to cost money. Their boys could give gifts that would be worth more than the ones they brought in the store.
I liked how the author talked about grieving and learning to live and love again. I enjoyed what the author had to say, ‘The Wish Book Christmas was a fun extra project in an otherwise not-so-fun-year. I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting best friends Eve Dawson and Audrey Clarkson and their sons, Harry and Bobby, and seeing where life had taken them after the final pages of If I Were You.” Inspiration sprang from my own memories of the Christmas Wish Book, published each year by Sears, Roebuck and Co. Like Bobby and Harry, my two sisters and I would study the catalog pages, dreaming of all the presents we’d find beneath the tree on Christmas morning….” It’s my hope and prayer that The Wish Book Christmas will brighten and inspire your Christmas celebration this season.”
This is a nostalgic blast from the past filled with hope, love, and the celebration of life. The author includes eight discussions to help create a lively discussion for your book club meeting.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org
November 9, 2022
AMAZING
October 28, 2021
The Wish Book Christmas was a sweet Christmas story with a great message. I really enjoyed getting to revisit the characters from If I Were You, a book I absolutely loved.
I enjoyed seeing how the boys learned the true meaning of Christmas and that it isn't about the gifts. I also liked the little bit of romance, even though that wasn't the main focus of the story.
All in all, The Wish Book Christmas was a fun read and I recommend it. I think you should definitely read If I Were You first, though, as that makes this read even more special.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I enjoyed seeing how the boys learned the true meaning of Christmas and that it isn't about the gifts. I also liked the little bit of romance, even though that wasn't the main focus of the story.
All in all, The Wish Book Christmas was a fun read and I recommend it. I think you should definitely read If I Were You first, though, as that makes this read even more special.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
November 20, 2022
A feel good Christmas story that was very heavily Christian themed. There was something about this book that made me uncomfortable - it was almost like a message of "wealth is virtue and a sign of God's favor." I did not realize that this book is a continuation of characters from another Lynn Austin book entitled "If I Were You". Eve and Audrey served together in WII, and were British - Eve's mother was maid to Audrey's aristocratic mother in London. Their story in America starts in 1950's Connecticut, and both are raising young boys. Audrey's husband, Robert, has died and Eve is an unwed mother with a shameful past. (according to her)
When the boys, Harry and Bobbie, start perusing the Sears catalog and making mile long lists, Eve and Aubrey decide to teach them that Christmas is about giving to others, like the three Kings bringing the Christ child gifts. Although the lessons were nice, everything, and I mean every storyline ties up neatly with a beautiful bow at the end. Money, love, happiness - all there. A bit unrealistic, but if you want a very Christian based feel good holiday story, look no further.
My issue with books like these is in my opinion, it trivializes the message of Christianity - just because you do some good deeds and accept forgiveness does not mean a golden ticket in life. I really don't like the sentiment that "having money doesn't make you a bad person" and despite the women preaching giving - the boys are still completely showered with gifts, and both Aubrey and and Eve have more than enough money to make all their problems disappear if they choose - most people do not have that luxury. Ok - you can say it - I'm a Grinch, lol. 2.5 stars. A quick, holiday read.
When the boys, Harry and Bobbie, start perusing the Sears catalog and making mile long lists, Eve and Aubrey decide to teach them that Christmas is about giving to others, like the three Kings bringing the Christ child gifts. Although the lessons were nice, everything, and I mean every storyline ties up neatly with a beautiful bow at the end. Money, love, happiness - all there. A bit unrealistic, but if you want a very Christian based feel good holiday story, look no further.
My issue with books like these is in my opinion, it trivializes the message of Christianity - just because you do some good deeds and accept forgiveness does not mean a golden ticket in life. I really don't like the sentiment that "having money doesn't make you a bad person" and despite the women preaching giving - the boys are still completely showered with gifts, and both Aubrey and and Eve have more than enough money to make all their problems disappear if they choose - most people do not have that luxury. Ok - you can say it - I'm a Grinch, lol. 2.5 stars. A quick, holiday read.
December 4, 2024
4.5⭐️ Redemption, gift giving, a bit of romance, snow and the true meaning of Christmas 🥰 this was a very sweet story.
Set in the 1950s, the cozy setting and the characters were perfectly imperfect and I loved both. I appreciated the themes of forgiveness and grace, and the presentation of the gospel in this book was very beautiful!
When I started the book, I didn’t realize it was a sequel! Even so, It’s written so someone reading it as a stand alone can easily follow what’s going on. I may go back and read the first book “If I Were You” someday…but it’s a bit heavier. This was the happily ever after so it is a spoiler 😉
Set in the 1950s, the cozy setting and the characters were perfectly imperfect and I loved both. I appreciated the themes of forgiveness and grace, and the presentation of the gospel in this book was very beautiful!
When I started the book, I didn’t realize it was a sequel! Even so, It’s written so someone reading it as a stand alone can easily follow what’s going on. I may go back and read the first book “If I Were You” someday…but it’s a bit heavier. This was the happily ever after so it is a spoiler 😉
December 27, 2021
So disappointed in this sequel to If I Were You. I can't fault the boys being greedy as they are only 5 years old and what kid doesn't dream of wanting all the toys from Santa. My issue is with the moms and how they dealt with it. Being a Christian book I expected a little more of Jesus and less of material things. And that is how the book wraps up....getting material things...both for the boys and the moms. Similar to If I Were You, this book adds a lot of Jesus at the end, but never feels as if any of the characters are truly changed.
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