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Christmas in Garland Collection #3
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
Can a cozy inn at Christmas transform the troubled hearts seeking refuge there?
Pregnant and alone, Alissa Hill moved to Garland, Tennessee to help at her aunt’s inn. When a guest brings her hidden past to the inn’s door, she must decide whether to face it or continue to run.
A career-ending injury ruined Stephen Powell’s life plans. Now a former NFL kicker, he’s searching for a new purpose while recovering at the Cheery Inn. But those at the inn may offer him much more than he expects.
Sparks fly when Alissa and Stephen meet, but secrets and regrets may keep them apart unless they can learn to forgive and move beyond their brokenness.
Read this heartwarming Christmas romance today!
Pregnant and alone, Alissa Hill moved to Garland, Tennessee to help at her aunt’s inn. When a guest brings her hidden past to the inn’s door, she must decide whether to face it or continue to run.
A career-ending injury ruined Stephen Powell’s life plans. Now a former NFL kicker, he’s searching for a new purpose while recovering at the Cheery Inn. But those at the inn may offer him much more than he expects.
Sparks fly when Alissa and Stephen meet, but secrets and regrets may keep them apart unless they can learn to forgive and move beyond their brokenness.
Read this heartwarming Christmas romance today!
Unknown Binding
Published November 7, 2022
About the author
A.M. Heath
24 books363 followersBesides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, ladies’ Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and a retired cake decorator who has a soft spot for Christmas trees, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
After years of watching Murder She Wrote, I’ve partnered with my best friend to write Christian cozy mysteries under the pen name Chelsea Michelle. What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
After years of watching Murder She Wrote, I’ve partnered with my best friend to write Christian cozy mysteries under the pen name Chelsea Michelle. What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
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November 7, 2022"That burning ache tightened. I could have done so much more. Why did You silence me? Godless platforms survived all the time, but mine was cut short. Why didn't you let me continue?"
So questions Stephen as he wrestles through a life-altering injury that has ended his short stint in the NFL. Stephen's questions resonated with me, for although I am far removed from professional sports, I have often wondered at those God allows to have a platform and while others with a solid message often feel "unseen." This book tenderly and beautifully addresses those questions and many more.
Alyssa struggles with guilt over her predicament as an unwed mother. I thought the author did a great job of balancing both the consequences of sin and God's grace and forgiveness. Alyssa sees how her selfishness has hurt herself, her child, and those around her. But can she learn to accept and move forward in Christ's forgiveness?
This is a sweet Christmas book with endearing characters and a strong Christian message.
So questions Stephen as he wrestles through a life-altering injury that has ended his short stint in the NFL. Stephen's questions resonated with me, for although I am far removed from professional sports, I have often wondered at those God allows to have a platform and while others with a solid message often feel "unseen." This book tenderly and beautifully addresses those questions and many more.
Alyssa struggles with guilt over her predicament as an unwed mother. I thought the author did a great job of balancing both the consequences of sin and God's grace and forgiveness. Alyssa sees how her selfishness has hurt herself, her child, and those around her. But can she learn to accept and move forward in Christ's forgiveness?
This is a sweet Christmas book with endearing characters and a strong Christian message.
October 30, 2022
The characters in this Christmas romance contemporary are relatable with their strengths and flaws. Alissa and Stephen story consumed me from the start and I found myself reading it in one sitting. Their tale is filled with true to life issues, learning to forgive, and finding God’s love in new ways. The author penned a touching and heartfelt story that weaved a gentle faith message for all to see God is the answer despite life’s mistakes and disappointments individuals suffer in life. The spirit of Christmas was beautifully displayed by the end too.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Christian contemporary romance and Christmas genre as well as all of other A. M. Heath’s books as they are penned from her heart whether they are Christian contemporary or historical
I received an advance e-copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Christian contemporary romance and Christmas genre as well as all of other A. M. Heath’s books as they are penned from her heart whether they are Christian contemporary or historical
I received an advance e-copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. I have expressed my own thoughts.
April 23, 2023
3.5 stars
I was excepting a rather light Christmas story with some good parts and some romance. I was not expecting it to be so deep! It was good, just not what I was expecting.
Alyssa tugged at my heart and I wanted to hug her and tell her that even though she had sinned, there is grace and forgiveness even if her parents and many others didn’t show that. She thinks she can’t be forgiven or at least doesn’t deserve to be forgiven, but thankfully several other characters spoke truth to her. Yes, she does learn that sin can and often does affect more people than you think it will at the time.
And then there’s Stephen. Poor guy. That injury sounded painful! And I could understand those questions of “What are you doing, God?” and “Why me?” But thankfully Stephen didn’t turn bitter, and he had some really good things to say. I’ll leave it at that.
The sisters and David have to be mentioned too because they were such a special part of the story.
I loved the Christmas feels and the strong messages about trusting that God has a plan even if it looks nothing like what you thought His plan looked like, as well as the ones on asking for forgiveness and then accepting God’s forgiveness, grace, and love.
This story deals with the serious topic of getting pregnant out of wedlock by choice, but the author handled it so well! There was nothing to put wrong images in my head or suggestive comments. Yes, there are some kisses, some attraction to the other person, but everything was clean, and the Christian content was strong.
I was excepting a rather light Christmas story with some good parts and some romance. I was not expecting it to be so deep! It was good, just not what I was expecting.
Alyssa tugged at my heart and I wanted to hug her and tell her that even though she had sinned, there is grace and forgiveness even if her parents and many others didn’t show that. She thinks she can’t be forgiven or at least doesn’t deserve to be forgiven, but thankfully several other characters spoke truth to her. Yes, she does learn that sin can and often does affect more people than you think it will at the time.
And then there’s Stephen. Poor guy. That injury sounded painful! And I could understand those questions of “What are you doing, God?” and “Why me?” But thankfully Stephen didn’t turn bitter, and he had some really good things to say. I’ll leave it at that.
The sisters and David have to be mentioned too because they were such a special part of the story.
I loved the Christmas feels and the strong messages about trusting that God has a plan even if it looks nothing like what you thought His plan looked like, as well as the ones on asking for forgiveness and then accepting God’s forgiveness, grace, and love.
This story deals with the serious topic of getting pregnant out of wedlock by choice, but the author handled it so well! There was nothing to put wrong images in my head or suggestive comments. Yes, there are some kisses, some attraction to the other person, but everything was clean, and the Christian content was strong.
December 9, 2024
I tend not to like books about women having a baby outside of wedlock, but for different reasons than you might think. Usually, the books either gloss over the sin in their effort to make sure that the reader cheer for the baby or they dwell on the sexual sin either to glorify it or throw stones (neither of which I like). This book was different.
I loved how the sin was acknowledged, but the need for grace (for yourself and others) was the thrust of the book. None of the good characters acted like the sin didn't matter, but they knew what mattered more: the grace of Jesus which cleanses us and makes us new.
I loved the epilogue where we see the story has a happy ending, but there is still messy parts of life.
Honestly, I think this may be one of my favorite Christmas books this year.
I loved how the sin was acknowledged, but the need for grace (for yourself and others) was the thrust of the book. None of the good characters acted like the sin didn't matter, but they knew what mattered more: the grace of Jesus which cleanses us and makes us new.
I loved the epilogue where we see the story has a happy ending, but there is still messy parts of life.
Honestly, I think this may be one of my favorite Christmas books this year.
October 24, 2022
I LOVED this book!! Alissa knows she made a mistake. She knows she was wrong. Now, everyone that knows her knows the same, as there's no way she can hide the consequences. When she meets Stephen, for what he thinks is the first time, she's rather relieved he doesn't remember her. The more time they spend together, the more they are drawn together. I love the way that Stephen shows her God's love, and how he handles David, too. God is always ready to forgive us, all we have to do is ask and turn away from our sin, and He's more than ready to welcome us home!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
November 11, 2022
This sweet and touching story is the perfect read for the Christmas holidays. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear shares the points of view of two people who are dealing with intense struggles. Alissa is pregnant, unwed, and certain that her sin can't be forgiven. Stephen can't understand why his dream of having a career in football has suddenly been taken away. Both of them need to turn to God but will this happen?
A.M. Heath uses likable but human characters and realistic situations to remind us that trust is essential, forgiveness is freely given, and God is always there. So, fix yourself a cup of hot cocoa and prepare to lose yourself in this heartwarming contemporary Christian romance!
I received a digital copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
A.M. Heath uses likable but human characters and realistic situations to remind us that trust is essential, forgiveness is freely given, and God is always there. So, fix yourself a cup of hot cocoa and prepare to lose yourself in this heartwarming contemporary Christian romance!
I received a digital copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
November 9, 2022
This book should be on everyone’s list this Christmas season. It is a beautiful reminder that God forgives us and loves us unconditionally. Alissa is a great character who feels that her sin is too much for God. Being an unwed pregnant woman to her is the one sin that God will never forgive her for. She has this mentality that she should be ashamed and wallows in her self pity. My heart went out to her as rejection filled her heart. As the holidays approach she tries her best to bring cheer to customers at the
Inn, but underneath her smile is sadness and a longing to be accepted.
Stephen has come to the inn to get some much needed rest after an injury has taken him out of his dream of being on the Titans. He was a great kicker for the team until the surgery turned out to be a mistake. He is angry and just wants to stay in his room and brood. But God has a different plan for him and Alissa. His character brings a fresh look at how important it is to help others instead of focusing on our own problems.
I loved how the author brings these two main characters together and lean on each other as they struggle through their trials. Stephen is there for Alissa and speaks words of truth to her. She has to learn to forgive herself and find comfort in God’s grace. We find two people hurting and feeling rejected brought together to experience trust, forgiveness and a new beginning. The author reminds us that nothing is impossible with God.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Inn, but underneath her smile is sadness and a longing to be accepted.
Stephen has come to the inn to get some much needed rest after an injury has taken him out of his dream of being on the Titans. He was a great kicker for the team until the surgery turned out to be a mistake. He is angry and just wants to stay in his room and brood. But God has a different plan for him and Alissa. His character brings a fresh look at how important it is to help others instead of focusing on our own problems.
I loved how the author brings these two main characters together and lean on each other as they struggle through their trials. Stephen is there for Alissa and speaks words of truth to her. She has to learn to forgive herself and find comfort in God’s grace. We find two people hurting and feeling rejected brought together to experience trust, forgiveness and a new beginning. The author reminds us that nothing is impossible with God.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
November 8, 2022
Such a great book! I enjoyed everything about this story. Mistake are made but God forgives. Accidents happen but people are human, even doctors. I loved the way Stephen sticks with Alissa and the way she sticks by him. Both are hurting people and they both have needs. Will they continue to help each other or will they grow apart once he finds out Alissa’s secret? A faith filled book that will pull at your heartstrings. Romance, forgiveness and happiness all in one story. Don’t miss this Christmas Romance!
I received an e-copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author but I was not required to write a positive review.
November 8, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book. I found it to be well written and easy to read. I liked Alissa and Stephen and watching them interact. The sass and snark are fun. There are some hard issues brought up in the book and they were handled carefully and biblically. The ending wasn't what I expected, but it was a nice reminder of what God can do when we surrender to His will. I look forward to reading more books by A.M. Heath.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
October 11, 2022
I wouldn’t consider myself a fast reader, and when I sat down to read this book yesterday afternoon, I expected to read a few chapters and then move on to something else. An hour and a half later, I came back to real life in a bit of a daze—“What just happened there?” Even though I had to take a couple of quick breaks (life and work are more important than reading, after all), I ended up finishing the book a few hours later. I couldn’t believe how quickly it went—and was sad to have to part with these characters so quickly.
The story itself is excellent, immersed in real life, and I could easily relate to all of the characters. Even though I may not have been in their shoes, all of us at different times in our lives have to deal with big questions about faith and forgiveness, and what to do when God seems to turn our plans and dreams upside down. I laughed—some of the characters are hilarious!—I wanted to cry with Alissa (and sometimes give her a good talking-to!), and overall, this was a book that will stay with me for a long time. It’s short, sweet, delightfully Christmasy, and even though it deals with some tough topics, it’s gentle and encouraging. Highly recommended.
I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
The story itself is excellent, immersed in real life, and I could easily relate to all of the characters. Even though I may not have been in their shoes, all of us at different times in our lives have to deal with big questions about faith and forgiveness, and what to do when God seems to turn our plans and dreams upside down. I laughed—some of the characters are hilarious!—I wanted to cry with Alissa (and sometimes give her a good talking-to!), and overall, this was a book that will stay with me for a long time. It’s short, sweet, delightfully Christmasy, and even though it deals with some tough topics, it’s gentle and encouraging. Highly recommended.
I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
September 10, 2024
I really love the messages of God's forgiveness and redemption in this story about a single mom regretting past choices in her life. Alissa comes across in such a vulnerable manner that it is easy to understand her doubts and misgivings about others. At the same time, Stephen is also going through similar emotions while grappling with events outside of his control. Together, the two characters beautifully navigate what it looks like to trust God when circumstances are not as planned, whether as a result of external forces or internal sin. The author addresses both of these journeys equally well, taking the time to share what it means to trust in God’s plans and believe that He can bring beauty from ashes.
The supporting characters in the form of the sisters provide comic relief, while it is a joy to see David, the young neighbour, taken in and loved on. All of these characters form a family in a way at the Cheery Inn, helping Alissa throughout her pregnancy. Faith is strongly referenced, and difficult issues are tackled, such as why God allows suffering. There are raw emotions on display and multiple life decisions that have to be made in a complex situation. This Christmas novella shines a light on hope when things appear darkest at midnight.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
The supporting characters in the form of the sisters provide comic relief, while it is a joy to see David, the young neighbour, taken in and loved on. All of these characters form a family in a way at the Cheery Inn, helping Alissa throughout her pregnancy. Faith is strongly referenced, and difficult issues are tackled, such as why God allows suffering. There are raw emotions on display and multiple life decisions that have to be made in a complex situation. This Christmas novella shines a light on hope when things appear darkest at midnight.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
November 28, 2022
Forgiveness is for all
The gift of forgiveness is for each one of us. elissa learned that all she had to do was receive it, and to not let her past hinder her future. We might make messes of our lives, but jesus takes that mess and turns it into something beautiful that He can use for his glory. Very well done!
The gift of forgiveness is for each one of us. elissa learned that all she had to do was receive it, and to not let her past hinder her future. We might make messes of our lives, but jesus takes that mess and turns it into something beautiful that He can use for his glory. Very well done!
December 2, 2024
If you love a good, faith-filled Christmas romance, try It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by A.M Heath.
This is such a beautiful, redemptive story! Sin is not without consequences but if we ask, God extends His grace and forgiveness to us. He redeems our mistakes and transforms them into something beautiful. I love how the author portrays that in this book.
*I read a reviewers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own!
This is such a beautiful, redemptive story! Sin is not without consequences but if we ask, God extends His grace and forgiveness to us. He redeems our mistakes and transforms them into something beautiful. I love how the author portrays that in this book.
*I read a reviewers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own!
September 11, 2024
Will read it again some time.
October 23, 2022
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear is a Christian contemporary holiday romance novella by outstanding author A.M. Heath. Book 3 in the author’s Christmas in Garland series, it can easily be read as a stand alone novel. When I started it with the intention to just sample a chapter, I became so interested in the story that I keep turning page after page until I finished the entire thing! Yes, it was that good.
The writing style of author Heath is very much to my liking. Characters are multi-layered and believable. I became invested in the sweet characters of this book and felt as though I had made a group of friends. The setting was delightful. I am ready to book an extended stay in the Cheery Inn B&B now.
This is the story of Alissa and Stephen. Alissa is left to run her Aunt Maggie’s B&B when she is called out of town. Stephen is a new guest coming to recovery from an injury. Their initial meeting does not go well, but sparks seems to ignite. Also staying is a pair of sisters that have no boundaries and are fabulous.
The author has beautifully included many life and spiritual lessons in this gem. It is exceptionally written and certain to put a smile on your face as you read it. This would make a glorious Hallmark holiday movie.
I highly recommend this lovely story. It will put you in the holiday spirit and give you many things to ponder. I gladly give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided, but these are my honest words.
The writing style of author Heath is very much to my liking. Characters are multi-layered and believable. I became invested in the sweet characters of this book and felt as though I had made a group of friends. The setting was delightful. I am ready to book an extended stay in the Cheery Inn B&B now.
This is the story of Alissa and Stephen. Alissa is left to run her Aunt Maggie’s B&B when she is called out of town. Stephen is a new guest coming to recovery from an injury. Their initial meeting does not go well, but sparks seems to ignite. Also staying is a pair of sisters that have no boundaries and are fabulous.
The author has beautifully included many life and spiritual lessons in this gem. It is exceptionally written and certain to put a smile on your face as you read it. This would make a glorious Hallmark holiday movie.
I highly recommend this lovely story. It will put you in the holiday spirit and give you many things to ponder. I gladly give it a 5 star rating. A copy was provided, but these are my honest words.
December 3, 2025
Lots of complex issues handled in this one, while still maintaining a sweet Christmas feel. I really appreciated the struggles Stephen faces in wanting so much to do good through his influence, and not understanding why his career was cut short before he could do anything due to an injury. I loved seeing him come to grips with the fact that God’s ability to use him was not limited to his own dreams for his life. Also, the way the consequences of sin in contrast to the goodness of God, his grace, and forgiveness were all beautifully displayed.
December 12, 2023
Talk about a strong faith filled story! I just loved it so much! I really appreciated the way the author addressed Alissa's pregnancy and sin. Very well done. I definitely cried in during this book. I loved both of the main characters, Alissa and Stephen. They learn to trust and depend on one another very quickly and I just love it. I loved how Stephen helped Alissa to accept God's forgiveness. The side characters were also wonderful. And that ending, was just beautiful! I definitely recommend this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author . All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 21, 2023
Christian reader
What a breath of fresh air! A sweet love story combining faith, forgiveness and commitment. I look forward to reading more
books by A.M. Heath!
What a breath of fresh air! A sweet love story combining faith, forgiveness and commitment. I look forward to reading more
books by A.M. Heath!
October 17, 2025
Stephen was the sweetest 😍 but also wasn't scared to tell the truth. The two old ladies were a hoot and the inn sounded so cozy. This was a sweet pre-Christmas read 🩷
January 5, 2026
Alone and pregnant. Kicked out of her parent's home, loss of job, Alissa moves to live with her aunt, who then had to leave town, and Alissa must ready the inn for Christmas.
This story has so many points, it is well written and you have such empathy for Alissa. It is a clean, and faith-filled story and so tender. I loved it!
This story has so many points, it is well written and you have such empathy for Alissa. It is a clean, and faith-filled story and so tender. I loved it!
January 14, 2023
I started reading and couldn't put it down until I finished. I really liked Alissa and Stephen as well as their interactions. Both are hurting in different ways and help each other. Alissa is single and pregnant and knows she did wrong while Stephen has suffered an injury which results in his no longer being to play football and he thinks his plans to evangelize are no longer possible. The story really made me stop and think about how many times we judge others, especially single pregnant women, without thinking what they are going through and brings to mind: "Judge not lest you be judged".
December 9, 2022
Good series
I really enjoyed this whole series. I love Christmas stories. I especially liked the Biblical truths weaved into each book.
I really enjoyed this whole series. I love Christmas stories. I especially liked the Biblical truths weaved into each book.
December 8, 2022
A great holiday read. Highly recommended!!
February 12, 2025
I loved this entertaining Christian romance, and you will too if you, like me, have trouble forgiving yourself or remembering that through Jesus, Christ forgave your sins. The characters are unique and lovable, and I related to certain personalities as I couldn’t stop turning the pages of this inspiring book by A. M. Heath.
August 8, 2023
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear is a story about heartache, mistakes, and misfortune. It is also a story about healing, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
Heath weaves a plausible tale with well-rounded believable characters. She shares biblical truths in a natural, non-preachy way. The story is written in first person, not my favorite POV, but I didn't feel like the story dragged on endlessly in this instance. The romance thread is sweet and a natural occurrence. And the ending was a pleasing surprise.
Heath weaves a plausible tale with well-rounded believable characters. She shares biblical truths in a natural, non-preachy way. The story is written in first person, not my favorite POV, but I didn't feel like the story dragged on endlessly in this instance. The romance thread is sweet and a natural occurrence. And the ending was a pleasing surprise.
September 17, 2022
I received an advance copy of this book for editing purposes. If you love Christmas, Hallmark movies, happily ever afters, and/or a strong Christian message, this series is definitely for you. I love Heath's characters so much, and her spiritual themes are always strong.
December 5, 2024
This is a really good Christmas short story. The concept of an unmarried and pregnant main character is rare in Christian Fiction, but the author handled this exceptionally well. I highly recommend this book, although I'm not sure I would suggest it for a teenage girl.
July 3, 2023
This was a great story! I read it in 1 day! I love the story between Alissa and Stephen and how it shows the beautiful story of pro-life
January 25, 2025
Really good story with redemption, forgiveness, and godly counsel. The author did an excellent job of defining Alissa and Stephen character. They were very believable.
May 6, 2025
📚THE STORY📚
After getting mixed up with a football player who made promises he couldn't keep, Alissa finds herself pregnant and single. Rejected by her conservative family, she's found refuge with her aunt who runs an inn and is hosting a variety of festivities for the holiday season.
Stephen had a promising career as a kicker in the NFL until an injury ended everything. Now he's recovering from surgery and figuring out what to do next with his life - at a small inn his agent sent him to.
When Stephen shows up, Alissa immediately recognizes him as a teammate of her baby's father. But he doesn't know who she is, or that one of his buddies is the man who got her pregnant and abandoned her.
Stephen is nursing physical and spiritual wounds, but he wants to help Alissa. Meanwhile, Alissa's shame threatens to overwhelm her ability to accept help - even during a season that celebrates God's grace.
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Alissa is initially prickly and avoidant with Stephen, until she realizes that he has no idea that the NFL team he just left included her ex. Stephen wants to help her, but his injury means the two of them more often work together to look after one another.
Alissa's pregnancy by another man adds some complications to the romance between her and Stephen, but they talk and pray about their feelings and find their way to a cozy, if somewhat unconventional, model of family.
🎄CHRISTMAS🎄
The inn setting where both Alissa and Stephen are staying is hosting Christmas events - but these often add more stress than spirit, as both characters try to figure out how to help make these events happen despite their emotional and physical challenges. Once these challenges are overcome, however, the place is full of Christmas decorations and delight.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
Because Alissa considers her premarital sex to be a sinful mistake, she feels that dealing with her pregnancy and single motherhood is a punishment from God, though this attitude is challenged over the course of the story.
There is a lot of focus on sin, though with a message of repentance and redemption. Pro-life attitudes and a strong anti-premarital-sex message are central.
The importance of a family, especially the presence of an involved father, is also discussed and depicted in the main plot and subplot. Characters challenge each other around honesty, discernment, and accountability.
The characters attend a church and listen to a sermon about Joseph of the Old Testament, and reflect on the Christmas message as shared by classic carols.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
I read another Christmas in Garland book last December, and it was nice to revisit this world. I enjoyed the presence of a fatherless tween and his story, especially the way Stephen connected well with him. The give-and-take of Alissa and Stephen helping each other through their physical weaknesses and spiritual confusions was great too.
After getting mixed up with a football player who made promises he couldn't keep, Alissa finds herself pregnant and single. Rejected by her conservative family, she's found refuge with her aunt who runs an inn and is hosting a variety of festivities for the holiday season.
Stephen had a promising career as a kicker in the NFL until an injury ended everything. Now he's recovering from surgery and figuring out what to do next with his life - at a small inn his agent sent him to.
When Stephen shows up, Alissa immediately recognizes him as a teammate of her baby's father. But he doesn't know who she is, or that one of his buddies is the man who got her pregnant and abandoned her.
Stephen is nursing physical and spiritual wounds, but he wants to help Alissa. Meanwhile, Alissa's shame threatens to overwhelm her ability to accept help - even during a season that celebrates God's grace.
💕THE ROMANCE💕
Alissa is initially prickly and avoidant with Stephen, until she realizes that he has no idea that the NFL team he just left included her ex. Stephen wants to help her, but his injury means the two of them more often work together to look after one another.
Alissa's pregnancy by another man adds some complications to the romance between her and Stephen, but they talk and pray about their feelings and find their way to a cozy, if somewhat unconventional, model of family.
🎄CHRISTMAS🎄
The inn setting where both Alissa and Stephen are staying is hosting Christmas events - but these often add more stress than spirit, as both characters try to figure out how to help make these events happen despite their emotional and physical challenges. Once these challenges are overcome, however, the place is full of Christmas decorations and delight.
✝️FAITH ELEMENTS✝️
Because Alissa considers her premarital sex to be a sinful mistake, she feels that dealing with her pregnancy and single motherhood is a punishment from God, though this attitude is challenged over the course of the story.
There is a lot of focus on sin, though with a message of repentance and redemption. Pro-life attitudes and a strong anti-premarital-sex message are central.
The importance of a family, especially the presence of an involved father, is also discussed and depicted in the main plot and subplot. Characters challenge each other around honesty, discernment, and accountability.
The characters attend a church and listen to a sermon about Joseph of the Old Testament, and reflect on the Christmas message as shared by classic carols.
📝MY THOUGHTS📝
I read another Christmas in Garland book last December, and it was nice to revisit this world. I enjoyed the presence of a fatherless tween and his story, especially the way Stephen connected well with him. The give-and-take of Alissa and Stephen helping each other through their physical weaknesses and spiritual confusions was great too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews