Once Upon a Christmas Carol by Melody Carlson

 Once Upon a Christmas Carol

Book Summary

Can a tropical escape from holiday blues turn her Christmas into a snowy wonderland filled with joy and cheer?

Carol Langstrom hates Christmas. Growing up in a dysfunctional home, with a birthday on December 25 and too many dashed childhood expectations, the holiday season is something she would rather avoid. And working in the design industry where she manages seasonal decor for wealthy, entitled clients certainly hasn't helped!   

So, this year her goal is to flee to the Bahamas--by herself--bah humbug! But bad weather and God's radically different plan redirect her flight to blustery Michigan, where she gets stuck on her aunt's farm and discovers a different kind of Christmas--one wrapped in love, family, and holiday spirit.

Melody Carlson's Christmas novella delivers all the charm of a holiday Hallmark movie, is rooted in Christian faith, woven with sweet romance, and features A Christmas Carol themes.

My Thoughts

I look forward to Melody Carlson’s Christmas story each year, and I started reading Once Upon a Christmas Carol as soon as I received it.  Melody Carlson did not disappoint with this heartwarming, holiday tale.  I enjoyed getting to know Carol and her aunt, Maria as well as Victor.  I did feel bad that she was stuck in Michigan (I’m sorry, but I am a Buckeye).  I like that we get to see Carol grow over the course of the holiday season.  Carol learns that helping others not only brings happiness but also provides fulfillment. I enjoyed this merry and moving story.  Once Upon a Christmas Carol is a cozy Christmas story about forgiveness, family, romance, and having a festive holiday. 

Once Upon a Christmas Carol is available from Amazon*.  Melody Carlson has All Booked Up coming out on March 17, 2026 (I have pre-ordered my copy).  You can find Melody Carlson's other novels here.  Other delightful books that came out today are The Christmas House by Beverly Lewis, The Amish Widow's Last Stitch by Tracy Fredrychowski (you can read for free through Kindle Unlimited), and On a Midnight Clear by Tracie Peterson, Karen Witemeyer, and Misty M. Beiler.  Thank you for dropping by today.  I will be featuring The Amish Widow's Last Stitch by Tracy Fredrychowski tomorrow.  

My cat, Dickens, is determined to meet the ducklings.  Every time I go outside, Dickens darts out the door.  The last time, Mama Duck and the ducklings were on the porch (it was chow time) and Dickens made a beeline for the little group.  Mama Duck quickly gathered the ducklings behind her and positioned herself in front with her wings spread.  I knew this did not bode well for Dickens.  I was able to snatch up Dickens and get her back in the house before a fight could ensue (Dickens is a friendly cat who purrs when around people and animals--she does not fight).  Dickens continues to live up to her name.  I hope that you have a merry day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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