Member Reviews

The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson has all the Hallmark Christmas movie feels. I'm not a fan of any type of Hallmark movies, but I do enjoy a nice Christmas story that touches the heart. I have not found that many in book format, but I do have a few on my shelf. Carlson does bring a character home that is trying to revive her family legacy, the Christmas Tree Farm. There is conflict between her and her sister that dives deep into their past. Sparks between the main heroine and the boy next door. A child of his that bridges the gap between them. I enjoyed watching Madison work really hard at attempting to keep her family farm in the black. I would have liked to have seen some struggle. The story was too perfect. She plants 6000 tree seedlings in two weeks. Has just enough help to finish the job quickly. Christmas went well. A little difficulty with the kitchen but really nothing that stopped her from pursing her dream to keep the farm moving forward. While readers will see the dreams of the boy next door, readers will never know if his dreams come true. Overall, The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson fits perfectly in the Hallmark Christmas genre. It was nicely written. Surrounds Christmas time. Has the perfect happily-ever-after ending. But for me, a little too perfect that had me shaking my head in disbelief.

I received a complimentary copy of The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson from Revell Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

Was this review helpful?

Another cute, heartwarming Christmas novella from Melody Carlson! If you love Melody Carlson's other Christmas novellas, this one is definitely for you. If you haven't read any of hers before, pick this one up and then read more of them as she has so many Christmas novellas out there! The book picks up a few weeks before Thanksgiving and encompasses the Christmas season so this is a good one to read even before Thanksgiving to get you in the Thanksgiving and Christmas spirit!

I loved the setting of an inherited Christmas tree farm recovering after a devastating fire swept away many of the farms in the area the year before. The main character is a woman coming home from 5 years abroad teaching in Mongolia finding out her old high school boyfriend who is now a widower father of two lives next door to her farm. There are interesting family dynamics in this book for both the female and male main characters that make the characters believable and relatable.

Pick this one up this Christmas season and you won't regret it at all!

Thank you to Revell Fiction and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Melody Carlson’s festive novella is a delightful escape to the French Alps via Paris, perfect for the holiday season. The story centres on Simone Winthrop, who, after experiencing heartache and loss, discovers a tantalising letter from her French great-grandmother hinting at a family treasure. Although sceptical, Simone’s best friend persuades her to investigate. Overcoming her fear of flying, she journeys to Paris at Christmastime, immersing herself in a richly described, atmospheric setting that Carlson expertly crafts, making readers feel as though they should put up their Christmas trees immediately.

Simone’s story is heartwarming and sweet, as she not only seeks the family treasure but also discovers the richness of family connections and love. Her journey of discovery, meeting her family, and her budding romance with Kyle adds an extra layer of charm to the narrative. The novella’s well-drawn characters and cosy, festive atmosphere make it a perfect quick read to get into the Christmas spirit. Whether you’re a fan of Christmas novellas or new to Melody Carlson’s work, this story provides a satisfying and heartwarming escape, ideal for getting cosy during the holidays.

Was this review helpful?

I absolutely love Melody Carson books and is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit! I can’t wait t9 share my full review and thoughts very soon as I apologize I’ve been dealing with some recent health issues quite seriously unexpectedly. This would make the perfect Christmas movie as well!

Was this review helpful?