Author:  Nancy Thayer
Publisher:  Ballentine Books                   
Genre: Holiday
Source: Mary Ann ( friend )

Goodreads:  Known for her heartwarming observations of family life, New York Timesbestselling author Nancy Thayer showcases her beloved Nantucket’s snowy off-season in this emotionally gratifying and utterly entertaining story.

Holidays on this Massachusetts island are nothing short of magical, from the jolly decorations on the Brant Point lighthouse to the much anticipated Christmas Stroll, in which merrymakers promenade through quaint streets adorned with Yuletide cheer. The season’s wonderful traditions are much loved by Nicole Somerset, new to Nantucket and recently married to a handsome former attorney. Their home is already full of enticing scents of pine, baking spices, and homemade pie.

But the warm, festive mood is soon tempered by Nicole’s chilly stepdaughter, Kennedy, who arrives without a hint of holiday spirit. Determined to keep her stepmother at arms’ length—or, better yet, out of the picture altogether—Kennedy schemes to sabotage Nicole’s holiday preparations. Nicole, however, is not about to let anyone or anything tarnish her first Christmas with her new husband.

Nancy Thayer’s wonderful tale reminds us that this is the season of miracles. Before the gifts are unwrapped, surprise visitors appear, and holiday joy comes to all, both naughty and nice.

Ope’s Opinion:  I read this on my airplane ride to Seattle.  It kept my attention in spite of all the airplane interruptions ( safety check, do you want a drink, do you want food, etc. ).  I enjoyed the story of Nicole trying to make a wonderful family holiday with a family that is new to her.

Nicole is my idea of a christian – she was gentle, kind and patient when those around her were difficult and disrespectful.  What an awesome example.

There is quiet a bit of drama in this short story. So if life is already crazy for you, you might want to save this one until after the holidays when things are a little quieter.

Rating:  Three Chairs –  I like the book enough to suggest it to a friend or two.