
AUTHOR: Melody Carlson
DATE: 2018
PUBLISHER: Revell
STARS: ****
When Wendy Harper inherits her family's beachside 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.
I’ve read other books by Melody Carlson and looked forward to some light, sweet storytelling. I was not disappointed, and the length warned me not to expect too much depth. Also true. A Christmas by the Sea was an easy afternoon read, enjoyable and non-challenging.
The setting of a seaside town and cottage drew me, and since I love renovations, Wendy’s quest to improve her inheritance kept the pages turning. While Wendy and Caleb are charming and attractive characters, the one I appreciated most was Wendy’s son, Jackson. His emotions are clearly shown, and I yearned for his dreams to come true.
The romance between the main characters was told more than shown, making it less real. The faith element is light, also, but I appreciated its inclusion.
A Christmas by the Sea is a sweet story suitable for all ages. I received this book from the publisher; all opinions are my own. This story earns four stars.