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A Victorian Christmas
A beautiful patchwork of four novellas about love and joy at Christmastime by best selling author Catherine Palmer. These four novellas were previously published in four anthologies — A Victorian Christmas Quilt, A Victorian Christmas Tea, A Victorian Christmas Cottage, and A Victorian Christmas Keepsake.
Return to a time when life was uncomplicated, faith was sincere... and love was a gift to be cherished forever.
Return to a time when life was uncomplicated, faith was sincere... and love was a gift to be cherished forever.
311 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
124 people are currently reading
960 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Palmer
83 books286 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Catherine Palmer lives in Atlanta with her husband, Tim, where they serve as missionaries in a refugee community. They have two grown sons. Cathy is a graduate of Southwest Baptist University and holds a master's degree in English from Baylor University. Her first book was published in 1988. Since then she has published over 50 novels, many of them national best sellers. Catherine has won numerous awards for her writing, including the Christy Award, the highest honor in Christian fiction. In 2004, she was given the Career Achievement Award for Inspirational Romance by "Romantic Times" magazine. More than 2 million copies of Catherine's novels are currently in print. The Author's Work With her compelling characters and strong message of Christian faith, Catherine is known for writing fiction that "touches the hearts and souls of readers." Her many collections include A Town Called Hope, Treasures of the Heart, Finders Keepers, English Ivy, and the Miss Pickworth series. Catherine also recently coauthored the Four Seasons fiction series with Gary Chapman, the "New York Times" best-selling author of "The Five Love Languages."
Catherine Palmer lives in Atlanta with her husband, Tim, where they serve as missionaries in a refugee community. They have two grown sons. Cathy is a graduate of Southwest Baptist University and holds a master's degree in English from Baylor University. Her first book was published in 1988. Since then she has published over 50 novels, many of them national best sellers. Catherine has won numerous awards for her writing, including the Christy Award, the highest honor in Christian fiction. In 2004, she was given the Career Achievement Award for Inspirational Romance by "Romantic Times" magazine. More than 2 million copies of Catherine's novels are currently in print. The Author's Work With her compelling characters and strong message of Christian faith, Catherine is known for writing fiction that "touches the hearts and souls of readers." Her many collections include A Town Called Hope, Treasures of the Heart, Finders Keepers, English Ivy, and the Miss Pickworth series. Catherine also recently coauthored the Four Seasons fiction series with Gary Chapman, the "New York Times" best-selling author of "The Five Love Languages."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
December 24, 2016
Not good, not bad. The book loses a star because it was in-your-face Christian Fiction. I don't mean to offend anyone, but that is not at all my thing. I find constant moralizing to be tiresome.
NOTE: The first of the 4 novellas was set in New Mexico, which threw me for a loop. Based on it's title of "A Victorian Christmas", I was not expecting to read anything set in the American West. However, the other three novellas were (thankfully) all set in Britain.
NOTE: The first of the 4 novellas was set in New Mexico, which threw me for a loop. Based on it's title of "A Victorian Christmas", I was not expecting to read anything set in the American West. However, the other three novellas were (thankfully) all set in Britain.
December 22, 2014
I loved this collection!
All the stories were faith filled, sweet stories.
#1 Angel in the attic ~ 3 stars
A so-so story. The romance was very quick and I didn't love the main girl
#2 Lone star ~ 5 stars (my favorite of the collection)
Loved, loved, loved this one. Yes, they kinda over did the Texan, but this story was awesome. People who actually trusted God, even when trusting him was hard.
#3 Under His Wings ~ 5 stars
This was a very cute re telling of Ruth.
#4 Behold the Lamb ~ 4 stars
This should have been a longer book for the story it contained, but I still liked it. A story of God's forgiveness and grace to all people.
All the stories were faith filled, sweet stories.
#1 Angel in the attic ~ 3 stars
A so-so story. The romance was very quick and I didn't love the main girl
#2 Lone star ~ 5 stars (my favorite of the collection)
Loved, loved, loved this one. Yes, they kinda over did the Texan, but this story was awesome. People who actually trusted God, even when trusting him was hard.
#3 Under His Wings ~ 5 stars
This was a very cute re telling of Ruth.
#4 Behold the Lamb ~ 4 stars
This should have been a longer book for the story it contained, but I still liked it. A story of God's forgiveness and grace to all people.
December 20, 2012
My thoughts, inspired by the book.
Unexpectedly good.
A compilation of four short stories, with one central theme - Christmas - and, make it two, - Victorian - no, make it three - God. Yes, Christmas season in a Victorian setting, with the works of God's love.
Written by Catherine Palmer, a Christy Award-winning author, A Victorian Christmas talks about Christ and His power to save us, protect us, and, of course, about His undying love. No, don't think that this book is meant to preach or force a relationship with Him to you. What I primarily like about A Victorian Christmas is how subtle and apt the approach and inclusion of God's teachings in the story. I am a Catholic Christian, (is there such thing, by the way?) and I love reading faith-inspiring books, but sometimes I tend to block off some writings which starts to be preachy and scolding. With this book, you wouldn't notice how Palmer included His words of love in her stories. The words are beautiful, and the message is true - when we make God the center of our lives, and the moment Jesus take the wheel of our lives, nothing would ever go wrong.
I bought this book at MV Logos-Hope, when the floating library visited the pier of Manila. This is one of the books I bought since the synopsis is interesting, and I love Christmas season! I don't have a single idea on what else to expect from this book, and I even thought I would not find the interest to read it at all.
This is not a perfect book, despite its message of God's words. Some character's actions can be surprising sometimes, and how quick a man and woman fall in love is a bit eyebrow raising, but in overall it didn't affect the quality of the story. Instead it even improved the character's development.
Each novella have their own theme, and each novella has its own way of imparting God's importance in our lives, especially on Christmas season. Our faith are oftentimes tested, but any trials wouldn't matter if we know how to reach out to Him.
This is one of the books you would love to read in an easy chair, while listening to soft sounds of Christmas carols.
Read more of my Book Notes, my bookish and not-so-bookish thoughts at http://atubofjellybeans.wordpress.com
Unexpectedly good.
A compilation of four short stories, with one central theme - Christmas - and, make it two, - Victorian - no, make it three - God. Yes, Christmas season in a Victorian setting, with the works of God's love.
Written by Catherine Palmer, a Christy Award-winning author, A Victorian Christmas talks about Christ and His power to save us, protect us, and, of course, about His undying love. No, don't think that this book is meant to preach or force a relationship with Him to you. What I primarily like about A Victorian Christmas is how subtle and apt the approach and inclusion of God's teachings in the story. I am a Catholic Christian, (is there such thing, by the way?) and I love reading faith-inspiring books, but sometimes I tend to block off some writings which starts to be preachy and scolding. With this book, you wouldn't notice how Palmer included His words of love in her stories. The words are beautiful, and the message is true - when we make God the center of our lives, and the moment Jesus take the wheel of our lives, nothing would ever go wrong.
I bought this book at MV Logos-Hope, when the floating library visited the pier of Manila. This is one of the books I bought since the synopsis is interesting, and I love Christmas season! I don't have a single idea on what else to expect from this book, and I even thought I would not find the interest to read it at all.
This is not a perfect book, despite its message of God's words. Some character's actions can be surprising sometimes, and how quick a man and woman fall in love is a bit eyebrow raising, but in overall it didn't affect the quality of the story. Instead it even improved the character's development.
Each novella have their own theme, and each novella has its own way of imparting God's importance in our lives, especially on Christmas season. Our faith are oftentimes tested, but any trials wouldn't matter if we know how to reach out to Him.
This is one of the books you would love to read in an easy chair, while listening to soft sounds of Christmas carols.
Read more of my Book Notes, my bookish and not-so-bookish thoughts at http://atubofjellybeans.wordpress.com
January 1, 2015
SUMMARY: A beautiful patchwork of four novellas about love and joy at Christmastime by best selling author Catherine Palmer. These four novellas were previously published in four anthologies—A Victorian Christmas Quilt, A Victorian Christmas Tea, A Victorian Christmas Cottage, and A Victorian Christmas Keepsake. Return to a time when life was uncomplicated, faith was sincere … and love was a gift to be cherished forever.
REVIEW: This was a very interesting collection of novellas. The first took place in New Mexico so I wouldn't call it Victorian but the other 3 definitely were Victorian. The writing style definitely reminds me of Grace Livingston Hill's novels - simple and classic. The female characters in each were strong, independent, faith-filled women. I also liked the fact that each was loosely based on a story from the Bible: Angel in the Attic - The Good Samaritan; Lone Star - The Prodigal Son; Under His Wings - The Widow's Mite and Behold the Lamb - The Repentant Thief on the Cross.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Yet when she stumbled in her walk of faith, God never let her fall headlong. He held her hand, guided her, and brought joy in the midst of sorrow."
"Rather like the Almighty..."I've learned that when nothing else makes sense, He does. He arranges events in proper order and sets our lives to right after we've put everything at sixes and sevens."
"I've always thought of God as the Master Quilter,.. He takes the worn-out patches that we give Him, the mistakes, the terrible holes we've caused with our sins, the frayed edges of our lives, and He pieces them all together into something beautiful and useful. If we give him our scraps, He can make quilts."
REVIEW: This was a very interesting collection of novellas. The first took place in New Mexico so I wouldn't call it Victorian but the other 3 definitely were Victorian. The writing style definitely reminds me of Grace Livingston Hill's novels - simple and classic. The female characters in each were strong, independent, faith-filled women. I also liked the fact that each was loosely based on a story from the Bible: Angel in the Attic - The Good Samaritan; Lone Star - The Prodigal Son; Under His Wings - The Widow's Mite and Behold the Lamb - The Repentant Thief on the Cross.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "Yet when she stumbled in her walk of faith, God never let her fall headlong. He held her hand, guided her, and brought joy in the midst of sorrow."
"Rather like the Almighty..."I've learned that when nothing else makes sense, He does. He arranges events in proper order and sets our lives to right after we've put everything at sixes and sevens."
"I've always thought of God as the Master Quilter,.. He takes the worn-out patches that we give Him, the mistakes, the terrible holes we've caused with our sins, the frayed edges of our lives, and He pieces them all together into something beautiful and useful. If we give him our scraps, He can make quilts."
December 27, 2016
"A Victorian Christmas" is a collection of four Christmas stories, some modeled after popular stories in the Bible, such as "The Prodigal Son", "The Good Samaritan", and the story of Ruth. They are worth light-hearted entertainment value, but being short Christmas stories that feature romance between characters meeting at the beginning...well, there's little room to properly develop the characters, and allow time enough for them to believably fall in love.
I'm giving it three stars because I especially enjoyed the second novella, "Lone Star". The daughter of a rich Texan rancher journeys to England to solidify her father's business relationship with an earl by marrying his son. During her journey, she meets a young English viscount who is fascinated by her speech and quilting. The story had me laughing several times, and I liked the main characters. I wish they were featured in a full-length novel!
This is my second book by Catherine Palmer, and I believe I will continue to look for and read all of her books. Her writing doesn't beg to be underlined or studied, but there's something about it. The romantic adventure? I guess there’s a part of me that rebels against true-to-life stories and begs for someone to humor my imagination. Because when I read Palmer's stories, I forget that I'm a writer studying the writing craft, and just enjoy reading.
I'm giving it three stars because I especially enjoyed the second novella, "Lone Star". The daughter of a rich Texan rancher journeys to England to solidify her father's business relationship with an earl by marrying his son. During her journey, she meets a young English viscount who is fascinated by her speech and quilting. The story had me laughing several times, and I liked the main characters. I wish they were featured in a full-length novel!
This is my second book by Catherine Palmer, and I believe I will continue to look for and read all of her books. Her writing doesn't beg to be underlined or studied, but there's something about it. The romantic adventure? I guess there’s a part of me that rebels against true-to-life stories and begs for someone to humor my imagination. Because when I read Palmer's stories, I forget that I'm a writer studying the writing craft, and just enjoy reading.
December 24, 2017
This is a wonderful collection of Christmas stories for the Christian history lover. I've seen some comment that it is not their cup of tea, because they feel it is " too preachy". I do not agree with that thought, but to each his own. The author uses scripture throughout, and I can see similarities between the storylines and characters of these stories in relationship to the Bible. If some find these offensive there are many other books that people can chose from. Here is my summary: Angel in the Attic-- Fara Canaday is a feisty, high spirited character that I fell in love with instantly. She reminded me of Eleanor Parker's character Mary Stuart Chern in the classic movie "Many Rivers to Cross." Both characters were comical in the fact that they went to the extreme to be almost unladylike to accomplish their goals. The difference was Mary Stuart Chern used her gun to capture her man and hold him hostage, while Fara used her gun to send the men away. She said that there would be no man stealing kisses and trying to marry up with her for her money. I give this story 5 stars. ~~~~~Lone Star- A Texas woman goes to England for an arranged marriage, but ends up falling in love with the brother instead. 5 stars.~~~~~~~ Under His Wings- A widowed servant catches the eye of an earl. There are similarities of the biblical story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. 5 stars~~~~~Behold The Lamb- A story set in England. This is a story about forgiveness.~~~~~~~This is one of the best Christmas collections I have ever read.
December 20, 2019
This has 4 short stories within it historically written.
I loved the first story as the heroine is gusty and I could see my ancestors in her place (especially my grandmother!). The next story is about how a bride was promised to someone and along the way she meets someone else and they end up falling for each other. However, they try and keep the promises made until...
The third story is interesting for a gentleman of some means wanting to get to know one of his servants. The story from there gets bumpy indeed.
The last one broke my heart due to a child getting taught something he shouldn't ever had and it comes back to bite him in the butt. This was some journey he and his intended go on.
I loved the first story as the heroine is gusty and I could see my ancestors in her place (especially my grandmother!). The next story is about how a bride was promised to someone and along the way she meets someone else and they end up falling for each other. However, they try and keep the promises made until...
The third story is interesting for a gentleman of some means wanting to get to know one of his servants. The story from there gets bumpy indeed.
The last one broke my heart due to a child getting taught something he shouldn't ever had and it comes back to bite him in the butt. This was some journey he and his intended go on.
January 8, 2018
Beautiful Christmas anthology
Beautifully written novellas capturing the Holiday spirit of Jesus's birth with a Victorian flair. Enjoyed the description of holiday decoration, but more importantly,the character development was excellent. From a Christian perspective,there was a clear and concise message of God's salvation,love and forgiveness.
Beautifully written novellas capturing the Holiday spirit of Jesus's birth with a Victorian flair. Enjoyed the description of holiday decoration, but more importantly,the character development was excellent. From a Christian perspective,there was a clear and concise message of God's salvation,love and forgiveness.
May 23, 2022
For God so loved the world….
Never have I read such inspiring stories as a group. In the moments we seek to escape the concerns of life, the Ms. Palmer grounds us skillfully reminding us of His loving salvation and His grace. Characters are delightful! Enjoy! Thank you, Ms. Palmer. I remain forever grateful.
Never have I read such inspiring stories as a group. In the moments we seek to escape the concerns of life, the Ms. Palmer grounds us skillfully reminding us of His loving salvation and His grace. Characters are delightful! Enjoy! Thank you, Ms. Palmer. I remain forever grateful.
December 4, 2024
A lot of Christmas books lack the festive vibe but not this one! Great job Catherine!The romance was clean and intriguing. Proof that it's always sexier to leave some things to the imagination! Again, well done and I very much appreciated the faith content! Add this to your Christmas TBR! It won't disappoint!
December 23, 2017
I got this free on Kindle through Amazon. 4 short Victorian Christian stories. Each story was very enjoyable. I liked the last 2 stories the best. Perfect for reading in between the hustle & bustle of Christmas time!
December 27, 2017
Very good stories
I really enjoyed these stories of strong women and interesting male characters. I do not read many historical fictions but these were a little different. I will look for note books by the author.
I really enjoyed these stories of strong women and interesting male characters. I do not read many historical fictions but these were a little different. I will look for note books by the author.
December 5, 2018
Too much proselytizing
The stories are sweet but the preaching just goes on and on. I don't mind Christian fiction but this is too extreme. If I want pages of sermons I will choose nonfiction.
The stories are sweet but the preaching just goes on and on. I don't mind Christian fiction but this is too extreme. If I want pages of sermons I will choose nonfiction.
December 18, 2020
Just the right amount of faith
These were well written stories with interesting characters and plots. The faith element was not overwhelming or preachy but fit naturally into the stories.
These were well written stories with interesting characters and plots. The faith element was not overwhelming or preachy but fit naturally into the stories.
December 7, 2021
I truly enjoyed this anthology collection from Catherine Palmer. My favorite was Under His Wings, a Victorian retelling of Ruth. She seamlessly weaves in faith elements and succinctly explains salvation even, all within a sweet romance package. I loved it.
March 18, 2017
Great mini stories filled with mystery and romance.
December 28, 2017
Short Uplifting Quick reads
Christmas themed Christian Romance
I chose this series for light reading during the Christmas season. I was not disappointed at all
Christmas themed Christian Romance
I chose this series for light reading during the Christmas season. I was not disappointed at all
December 14, 2018
Wonderful Christmas stories!
December 21, 2018
A lovely anthology of stories full of faith and love and Christmas spirit.
December 28, 2018
These were sweet stories, but they became redundant after awhile.
Read
August 26, 2019Just OK
June 2, 2020
these stories were absolultely delightful i loved them. I will read them again and I will recommend them
September 7, 2020
Enchanting
Enchanting !!! Well written characters described and defined so you really could relate to their back grounds and personalities .
Enchanting !!! Well written characters described and defined so you really could relate to their back grounds and personalities .
January 1, 2021
Sweet stories - just what i was looking for this holiday season.
January 11, 2021
Just one word - Nauseating
September 19, 2021
A 4-in-1 book for novellas. They were all good romances. I enjoyed the book.
November 15, 2021
Great book
September 21, 2022
I didn't like this. Too patriarchal.
November 22, 2024
Too preachy. It felt like reading the sermon rather than a story.
December 26, 2017
A wonderful book of four Christmas-y, Christian, heartwarming novellas.
I loved the first novella. What isn't to love about a calamity Jane, mistaken identity, Christmas novella?
The second and third books were good but a bit too dramatic.
I also loved the fourth book. It was kinda a mix between Jane Austen and Charles Dickens and a Hallmark Christian book. I would agree that it would have been even better as a novel as it could have been developed more. There was certainly enough there to make it a novel and then it would've been more real for me. And lasted longer! Beautiful message!
I loved the first novella. What isn't to love about a calamity Jane, mistaken identity, Christmas novella?
The second and third books were good but a bit too dramatic.
I also loved the fourth book. It was kinda a mix between Jane Austen and Charles Dickens and a Hallmark Christian book. I would agree that it would have been even better as a novel as it could have been developed more. There was certainly enough there to make it a novel and then it would've been more real for me. And lasted longer! Beautiful message!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews