Have Yourself a Christiansen Christmas - by Susan May Warren (Paperback)

I have read all of the Christiansen character books so I was so excited when I found out about this Christmas book! WOW! It was amazing and I could not stop reading it! Of course it was not just a perfect holiday happily ever after story, because sometimes that’s not what life is like. However, even with the trials this family and individuals faced; they did it together and with the help of their faith in God. I absolutely love the Christiansen parents and their strong faith and devotion to God and their family. I am so emotionally tied to this family and their individual stories so I really enjoyed reading this holiday story! I truly can’t say enough good things about this series and this specific book. I have read many, if not all, books from this author and highly recommend anything from her! I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

There’s nothing like a good homecoming story especially when it’s with one of your favorite families. The original Christiansen series is one of my all-time favorites, so you can bet I’ll be reading anything that mentions a Christiansen. What I like most about these stories is how the family rallies around each other, even when one of them is doing something completely stupid. In this Christmas story, all the children have returned to Deep Haven, each with their own secret. Watching them as they try not to reveal their secrets will cause a chuckle or two. Not everything is perfect with the family, but their love stays true. There were several heart tugging moments, which only reminded me of how much I love this make-believe family. Max is still my favorite character in the whole series, and his story still wrecks me. His story reminds me of what Christmas is all about – hope. No matter what happens because of Christmas, the best is yet to come.

“Hope takes immense courage. It is for the brave, and for the bold. Because what is hope but faith that we aren’t abandoned?” This is a Christmas story not to be missed. Whether you are familiar with the Deep Haven Christiansen family or this is your first encounter, you will not be able to put this book down once you start. It has all the feels - heartbreaking fear, immobilizing grief, overwhelming tenderness, unconditonal love - gently mixed with glimmering hope and invitation to lay it all down at the feet of the Merciful One. This wonderful family and all that they have been through and are still battling will have you crying tears of empathy and joy. I am quite amazed at how the author has pulled together seven subplots - one for each couple in the family - to create a seamless and beautifully touching story that brings the entire family together and makes the reader want to be a part of their family too. Every couple faces difficult obstacle and choice that has potential to change their lives as they know it. How they band together in faith and love is so encouraging and noteworthy. I received the book via publisher/author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.