Review: It Came Upon a Midnight Clear - Christmas in Garland Collection #3

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear book cover on blue background

As I've been reading the Christmas in Garland series, I've discovered that A.M. Heath is not afraid to tackle uncomfortable subjects in her books, making them relatable and realistic. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear is a special story set at Christmastime that is even more meaningful with the impending birth of a baby.

Book Synopsis

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 so much more than he expects.

Sparks fly the moment Alissa and Stephen meet, but secrets and regrets may keep them apart unless they can learn to forgive and move beyond their brokenness.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

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.

Book Summary

Format of book: 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Review: The Cul-de-Sac War

For National Good Neighbour Day , I thought this fun title from Melissa Ferguson would fit the bill! The Cul-de-Sac War is just the guide to neighbourly relations, right? 😂 (Fine, it's an American holiday and I should spell it the American way, but I can't let go of the "u".) Book Synopsis In this charming rom-com, two enemies find something they never expected in one another—taking "all's fair in love and war" to a hilarious and heartwarming new level. Actress Bree Leake doesn't want to be tied down, but just when it's time to move on again, Bree's parents make her an offer; hold steady in Abingdon for one full year, and they will give her the one thing she's always wanted—her grandmother's house. Her dreams are coming true... until life throws her some curve balls. And then there's her new neighbor. Chip McBride. For the first time in her life, she's met the person who could match her free-spirited air—and it's drivin...

Review: Reunited with the Hero - Heroes of Freedom Ridge #5

I'm really doing this; I'm going through the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series, and it's been a great Christmas journey! Living near the mountains, I'm starting to feel at home with this amazing ensemble of characters and families. A place like Freedom Ridge Resort may be out of reach, but it's fun to imagine being there. The fifth book in the series, Reunited with the Hero by M. E. Weyerbacher, is a food-oriented read as one of the central activities in the book is a cookie bake-off, along with a sweet romance, of course. Now, who could pass up Christmas cookies (and the relentless search for good coffee, although I can't relate as a tea drinker)? 😄 Book Synopsis A shocking reunion between high school sweethearts and a daughter with an avalanche of prayers leads to an unexpected Christmas. Fueled by faith and coffee, Widower Thea Riley sets out for a fresh start in her hometown of Freedom, Colorado. Housesitting her sister's cottage for the winter makes it ...

Review: He Is Faithful in Every Season

I'm a little sad that I read so little poetry as an adult compared to my youth. I don't know whether it's a lack of exposure to Christian poets or that I forget to seek it out, but am I ever grateful for opportunities to come across it when others reach out about it. Christian poetry is such a special genre that draws on truth and beauty in its arrangement of words to compose an entirely new scene. He Is Faithful in Every Season by Julia Rose does just that, providing us with a lovely reminder to encounter words in a fresh and inspired way. Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis Fifty poems intricately woven together with God's faithfulness and the truth of His Word. "He Is Faithful In Every Season" is a book of worship, love, redemption, freedom, and dependency. It touches on topics such as anxiety, fear, loneliness, and grief. It brings to light the aboundin...