Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander

I so enjoy reading Christmas books at Christmas time, especially novellas. Due to the busyness of the season, short reads are ideal.

Let’s begin with the summary:

A Christmas story to launch a new three-book series . . . The Carnton Novels

   

Amid war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas - and of sacrificial love.
 

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. With the bank threatening to evict, she discovers an advertisement for the Women's Relief Society auction and applies for a position - only to discover it's been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity - and friendship. But can Aletta trust this man?
 

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women's Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies - one, in particular - is far more than he bargained for.
 

Set against the backdrop and history of the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.

And now, my review:

The story opens with a strong hook, and I immediately related to the heroine and cheered for her. It’s been a while since I’ve read this author’s work (mostly because I read contemporaries, and she writes historicals) and I’d forgotten how strong her writing is. Readers will know they’re in good hands. The pacing was perfect, I was hooked throughout, and I looked forward to every chance to continue reading this novella during the busy November days.

There is an element of war in the background, but I didn’t find the book dark or violent. And I enjoyed watching the heroine’s life improve as the story progressed. Great writing! This is a feel-good story, so long as you keep with it.

This novella included romance and family dynamics and some twists. I highly recommend it! I’ll be watching for the next book in this series.