Once I stopped crying after reading the end of the book, I started writing this review. The actual review is not posting for another week, but I had to write down the emotions I was feeling right now.

First let me say, if you buy any new Christmas book this year for your family, Home and Away: A World War II Christmas Story by Dean Hughes is the book to buy!!

Now, this isn't the first time that a Dean Hughes story has made me cry. No, he is responsible for many tears shed at my house through the years while reading one of his many novels. I can guarantee that this story will touch your heart, whether or not it's Christmas time, but it will make it just that more special to read during the holidays.

This story is one that will make you appreciate your family more, your freedoms, and those who are in the military. The spirit of Christmas is strong in the book as the Hayes family is preparing for Christmas. With the war on, supplies and money are scarce. Middle son, Dennis, is going to high school and working an after school job to earn money to buy something nice for his mom for Christmas.His older brother is off fighting in the war in Germany and the family worries if they will ever see him again. This book shows the many miracles and gifts that can be found, especially at this time of year.

This book is so heartwarming that it is the perfect family read-aloud for this Christmas. I know that is exactly what I'm planning on doing this December.

Liked the cast of characters and the story flow. Books based around Christmas are usually entertaining. This one includes wartime as well. Christmas at wartime is not easy. Families go through a lot. Entertaining read. Would recommend!

The year is 1944. Alternating chapters switch between the stories of Glen Hayes, who is away in Holland fighting with the 101st Airborne Division, and his brother Dennis (sixteen), who is at home in Ogden, Utah, with his mother Norma, his father, and his sisters Linda (nine) and Sharon (six).

The story is quite graphic in its descriptions of the harsh realities of war on the front. Glen has to deal with the boredom, inclement weather, and the lack of food, and he is resigned to the fact that he will never see his family again. His one solace is the scent of lavender, which reminds him of his mother and home. With Christmas Day looming, there is no sign of respite for Glen and his battalion.

Back at home, Dennis wants to do something nice for his mother for Christmas and dreams of buying her the beautiful lavender dress in the window of the expensive clothing store. He works extra hours to earn enough money to buy it, but things become complicated when he starts going out with Judy Kay and finds he now has even more expenses. Meanwhile, he has to deal with his gruff father, who never apologizes or expresses love.

While both brothers struggle with their own battles, they each place their faith in God's plan and are willing to accept whatever happens. This is a heart warming story of love, sacrifice, family, and faith.