Richard Paul Evans is normally one of my go-to Christmas authors, I was super disappointed he didn't have a new book out last year. That said... Christmas in Bethel fell a little short of my usual expectations for his novels. I enjoyed it, I didn't dislike it, but I didn't read it and feel the passion and emotion that one can usually anticipate. Not my favorite, but definitely still worth the read.

Christmas in Bethel by Richard Paul Evans
This book begins with a story of physical abuse. Leigh “Beth” has suffered abuse at the hands of a family member. She thinks about commiting suicide but after reading a certain book, she doesn’t. Because of the abuse she also suffers from PTSD and other emotional issues. She meets Lee in a coffee shop and immediately likes him. What she doesn’t know is that he is really the man who wrote the book that impacted her so much. He calls himself J.D. Harper. Their relationship grows and she learns that like her, he and his brother faced abuse as well.
This book contains a lot of witty dialog but is more intimate that what I expect from a book that some call Christian.
While this book is set around Christmas time, I would not call it a typical Christmas story. The topics of abuse, suicide, betrayal, and deception are not those that I expect in a Christmas story. Of course, if you are not a fan of typical Christmas stories, this might be your cup of tea. As readers, we are all different and we all have different expectations. There is a surprising revelation that adds another dimension to the story.
This is from the publisher’s website:
“Leigh Beth Stilton has never liked the holidays. After growing up in an unstable home, escaping an abusive marriage, and witnessing daily tragedies as an EMT, Leigh just can’t bring herself to care about Christmas cheer. In fact, she’s so convinced she’s not worth loving that one winter’s eve, she decides she can’t go on—until she comes across a book called Bethel and starts to read.

Leigh is unfamiliar with the author, J.D. Harper, but his words speak directly to her. She’s never felt so seen and understood, and this connection gives her the strength to carry on. She avidly reads every novel Harper has written, and when he comes to town for a book signing, she jumps at the opportunity to meet the writer who means so much to her.

In a twist of fate, Leigh runs into J.D. in a coffee shop, and the two immediately click. Before she knows it, she’s swept up in a whirlwind of fancy dinners, exciting travel, and the attention of the man whose work has been so meaningful to her. But she’s leery after a lifetime of pain and when she discovers that J.D. hasn’t been completely honest, her hopes are dashed. Can they find their way back to each other and can Leigh learn to trust her heart?”
If you are looking for a different kind of Christmas story, give this a try.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own

Special book at Christmas!

This Christmas story is full of love. The main characters are well developed and easy to like. They are broken people that had a very tough childhood, so they have that in common. The details about their childhoods are heart breaking and hard to read about.

This story shows us the power a very special book can have - it can change your life. The author in the book seems to change so many lives with his books. What a very special gift. Everyone needs to read this book so they understand the very special place call Bethel. We all need a Bethel.

CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL by Richard Paul Evans (The Christmas Box) is another Christmas-themed romance from a master of the art. Having endured a hard life and abusive marriage, Leigh Beth Stilton was deep in despair until she read a book called Bethel by J. D. Harper. It saved her life, and she is excited about meeting the author at a book signing. By coincidence, they meet at a coffee shop and almost magically begin dating. Many of their interactions felt like he was manipulating her and taking advantage – even if that was not his intent. For example, I found it difficult to believe that she would up-end her life to move to his house, especially with his heavy travel schedule. There are bumps along the way, but the happy ending should satisfy Evans' many, many fans. 3.5 stars

I absolutely love all of Richards Christmas books. This one was extra good as the storyline revolves around an avid book reader and an Author. Heartwarming, great characters and a beautiful story, all the feels around Christmas time. Thank you to Netgalley, Gallery Books and the Author, Richard Paul Evans for an Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books and the author for my e-arc!

If you are looking for a warm, feel good, holiday hug in a book that embodies the spirit of Christmas … I got you!

This is not only an entertaining story with light romance, a little humor and an engaging plot … the book is powerful!

At times, it really made my heart hurt but in the end it does what this author does best … filled me with hope and renewed my faith in the miracle of love & redemption. The absolute perfect read for Christmas … but also for any time you may need a good ol’ shot of warm fuzzies!

This author is an auto buy for me … because simply, Richard Paul Evans brings it … every single time! I’m slowly working my way through his backlog and so far I have not read one of his books that I didn’t end by throwing ALL the stars at it! Even his YA (Michael Vey) series that I began reading with my daughter when she was in middle school is so, so good! She’s not a reader & really loved it. Point made!

Not my favorite by this author. It was okay. A sweet story. The main character had been abused and neglected as a child, she had gotten to a point where she had a plan to end her life, but then she discovered a book that seemed to speak directly to her, which helped save her. She fell in love with the author's books and felt he was "her author."

Fast forward several years where she's improved her live but is still dealing with issues from her past. She has the opportunity to meet the author at the book signing for his new release. I don't want to give more details of that, but there is a meeting, a getting to know each other, and seeming to fall for each other very fast. They seem to connect really quickly and get awfully cozy really quickly. Which did bother me a bit. Plus there was a lot of social drinking going on. I'm not one to say any drinking at all is sin, but I also am not a fan of so much drinking in the books I read, especially if they are classified as CF.

Through the story we learn more of the backstory of both her and the author and there are instances of abuse being talked about in detail.

There is really no mention of faith in either of their lives for most of the book. Talk about the universe at one point sort of turned me off of the book and made me hesitant. For being a Christian book I didn't really see it coming out in the story.

There was a bit of a twist that I didn't quite see coming. I thought something was going to be up with another character, but it wasn't quite what I was thinking it was going to be.

I did enjoy the book, but I wouldn't really classify it as Christian fiction. I know I've had that issue with another one of this author's books.

That said, it was an enjoyable story.

I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

I have never read a book by Richard Paul Evans (shocking but true). I very much enjoyed Christmas in Bethel. Even with the heartbreaking circumstances several of the characters endured the themes of redemption and hope are strong. The story has good humor and of course romance along with some good insight and inspiration. It is an easy, enjoyable holiday read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read for my honest review.

I read ‘the Christmas box’ last year and liked it. This newest release, though, was a disappointment. The romance was way too rushed and got to the point that I was feeling uncomfortable reading it and had to stop. The plot line was very predictable and too coincidental at times.

A sweet book just in time for Christmas. Evans creates characters that expertly show the brokeness many of us have experienced in our lives and connects them to the impacts that can have on our futures. Evans takes imperfect stories of realistic people and wraps it into a story perfect for the Christmas season that many can relate to.

I loved the writing in this book, but not the actions of the male lead. That definitely humanized the character for me though because that is life! Definitely there’s a theme of forgiveness as well as family loyalty and connection.

While CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL may not replace Richard Paul Evan's iconic THE CHRISTMAS BOX as many people's favorite holiday read, it is a touching story with a surprising twist. Leigh Stilton is not a fan of the holidays. Really, she is not a fan of much. Life has been harsh for her - childhood abuse, an alcoholic mother, absent father, violent marriage. In recent years, she has cocooned into a job she can do from home, few friends except for her book club. But when she reads her first book by J. D. Harper, she feels he is speaking right to her, and even more, she feels he is writing about her. So when she finds that he is doing a book signing in HER town, she must attend. It is a day that will change her life forever. While parts of the story feel like a magical fairy tale, Leigh's reaction and actions reflect the very real patterns wounded people often take. Like life itself, CHRISTMAS IN BETHAL follows a bumpy path to acceptance and happiness.

Christmas in Bethel by Richard Paul Evans is a romance, but not your typical one. These people have substance and backstories. Many romances do not have these things. It is a mixed up mess of feelings and solutions and secrets. It was a wonderful read. Told as only a master storyteller can tell it. Every moment was enjoyable. Not every moment was easy. For me or for the characters. I don’t know what else to say.

A woman meets a man in a coffee shop. When she gets to the head of the book signing line, she discovers it is him, her favorite author, whom she met in the coffee shop. That’s the brunt of it.

I was invited to read Christmas in Bethel by Gallery Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #GalleryBooks #RichardPaulEvans #ChristmasInBethel

Title: Christmas in Bethel
By: Richard Paul Evans
Pub. Date: November 26, 2024

Genre:
Adult Fiction, Christmas, Christian

Trigger Warnings:
Discussions of Abuse, Neglect,

Quotes:
“If I left the hard parts out, there would be no story. And you wouldn’t believe it anyway. Only lives on social media don’t have problems.”

“That’s when it occurred to me that he was happy, not because of what she could do for him, but because of what he could do for her.”

“The greatest shackles we wear are those forged by our own fear.”

Summary:
Leigh Beth Stilton has endured a life filled with trauma, including an unstable childhood, an abusive marriage, and a demanding career. At her lowest point, she discovers a book called Bethel by J.D. Harper, which profoundly impacts her, sparking reflection on her struggles and darkness. Harper’s words speak to her wounded soul, offering her a sense of healing. By chance, Leigh meets Harper in person, and through this encounter, she begins to open her heart, learning to love herself and others.

Review:
Richard Paul Evans' heartfelt Christmas writing is both thought-provoking and deeply inspiring. Christmas in Bethel is a perfect reflection of his mastery. The richly developed characters, the captivating, fast-paced plot, and the overarching themes of love, forgiveness, and hope create an unforgettable narrative. As an avid reader, I particularly appreciated the book-within-a-book,, which added an extra layer of depth. Evans’ work continues to uplift and remind us of the true meaning of life this holiday season.

Thank you Richard Paul Evans, Gallery Books, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

#ChristmasInBethel
#RichardPaulEvans
#GalleryBooks
#reluctantreaderreads
#advancedreadercopies
#NetGalley

Loved it! Just what I needed this time of year! A feel good story from Richard Paul Evans is always a winner. I love all his books.

This story about Beth and Lee was not my favorite. I went in expecting a Christmas story, and instead got a love story.
The theme of people being hurt by abuse was tough to navigate and read, for me personally.

Writing a book is like falling in love. You think you're pulling the strings until you discover you're really the puppet. ~ J.D. Harper

Open up this new holiday release from Richard Paul Evans and fall in love with a story of forgiveness. Leigh (Beth) Stilton and J.D. Harper (Lee) have a meet cute before his book signing. They make an instant connection as both have been deeply damaged by their pasts.

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little. ~ Luke 7:47

What follows is a beautiful tale of learning to love each other in "all the ways." There are some ups and downs. You will need your tissues -- I always do with Richard Paul Evans. He has a way of making my Christmas season richer and more meaningful with each new book.

Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. Happy Publication Day - November 26, 2024. 🥳

Another great Christmas story from the author! I was hooked from the beginning of this short story about love, forgiveness, and hope. I loved the theme that you are the one that decides who you want to be. I loved the characters in the book. Beth and Lee made a perfect couple because they both grew up in abusive homes and understood the hurt and pain that accompanies being in that situation. The abuse descriptions are disturbing and might be a trigger for some readers. (There is a warning at the beginning of the book.) Despite the harsh realities of life mentioned in the book, the story ends with a hopeful message that leaves the reader feeling uplifted.

Thank you NetGalley and Gallery Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

The King of Christmas storytelling, bestselling author Richard Paul Evans, returns with a heartfelt tale, CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL —celebrating the life-changing power of books and the holiday spirit.

Even in the darkest times, the light of hope can still shine, and the power of redemption can transform even the most broken souls.

About...

Leigh Beth Stilton does not have much to celebrate this holiday season. She grew up in an abusive household and later survived an abusive marriage. Plus, as an EMT, she has witnessed her share of tragedy.

She is about to give up on life and any Christmas cheer when she stumbles across a book called Bethel. It grabs her attention and resonates with her. She finds comfort in its inspiring words and storytelling.

The author is J.D. Harper, and she finds comfort in its inspiring words and storytelling. Leigh is so captivated she reads all his books, and when he comes to town for a book signing, she cannot wait to meet the author.

Then, she unexpectedly runs into the author in a coffee shop, and they click. Soon, she is swept up in his life, from travel to the best restaurants to gifts and attention. She feels she does not deserve this man who lives in a different world than hers.

When she learns some disturbing information about the author, she is crushed and feels she can no longer trust him.

However, she leaves him behind without knowing the whole truth. Can they find their way back to one another?

My thoughts...

CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL is a love letter to the power of stories, literature, and the healing of the human spirit. This is a fascinating look into the bond between siblings and the life-changing magic of stories. I look forward to reading Richard Paul Evans' books every Christmas holiday. I have read them all, and CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL is another inspiring read!

A compelling and emotional journey into the human psyche and stories that make us who we are with the power to transform and heal the brokenhearted with a strong takeaway message.

When you think you've figured out where the story is headed, it takes a surprising and unexpected turn that will warm your heart. It is a story of hope, tragedy, love, loss, trauma, abuse, and redemption. Literary lovers will also enjoy the book within a book!

Read and discover the special magical place called Bethel and the power of storytelling! A charming and inspiring novel that's perfect for the holiday season but will also add a delightful twist of romance to your festive reading list!

Ideal for book clubs!

Recs...

CHRISTMAS IN BETHEL is for fans of the author and those who enjoy works by Viola Shipman, Patti Callahan Henry, Meg Shaffer, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Catherine Ryan Hyde, Nicholas Sparks, and Mary Kay Andrews.

Thanks to Gallery Books and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.

Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Nov 26, 2024
My Rating: 5 Stars
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This just didn’t keep my attention. The romance moved very quickly. And the plot was pretty predictable. This author is a great one and I would recommend his other books. I received a copy from NetGalley. Opinions expressed are my own