A Christmas by the Sea by Melody Carlson

Here we are! Last weekend of September. First Christmas book review. I love Melody Carlson Christmas books! A Christmas by the Sea is no exception. I consider reading Melody's Christmas books a tradition. They are just plain good!

From the publisher:

When Wendy Harper inherits her family's beach side cottage in Seaside, Maine, she sees it as a way to finally pay off the debts that have mounted since her husband died. But before it can be sold, the neglected property must be renovated. She and her 12-year-old son Jackson move in--temporarily, she reminds him--in order to do the work themselves, even though Christmas is coming. The charming town, along with local craftsman Caleb Colton, pulls on both Wendy and Jackson, who even registers himself for school in a bid to get his mom to move them there permanently. Wendy knows that the most responsible thing to do is to sell the cottage and return to Ohio, but the lure of the sea is hard to resist.

Join award-winning author Melody Carlson for a Christmas story that will warm your heart and have you dreaming of your own enchanted seaside holiday.


My thoughts:
This is my favorite Melody Carlson Christmas novella yet!

• Melody paints the mood in color as the Harpers drive along towards Seaside. The tension in Wendy is high as fears and doubts fill her mind about how to provide for her son. Excitement fills Jackson as he thinks about the town and the new home and adventure that await. 
• Melody paints the setting in color as she describes the town, the cottage, the beach, the sights, and the smell of the sea. 
• Melody paints the characters vividly with words and emotion. New characters are introduced in some unusual ways. 

This is a light, relaxing holiday novella that will help you unwind after a day of fall or Christmas preparations.  Read this book. You won't be sorry. ~smile~

Read my reviews: 
The Christmas Angel Project
The Christmas Joy Ride
The Christmas Blessing 

I've also read:
The Gift of Christmas Present
The Christmas Bus
The Christmas Shoppe and
Christmas at Harringtons

An early happy Christmas to you all!

P.S. I start reading Christmas books in September for reviews. You may wait until October or November if you wish. ~smile~

Disclosure: I was sent a Net Galley e-book sample of this product for review purposes only. I was not compensated in any way. All opinions are my own based on my experience with this product. 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."