The Christmas Tree Farm

Author: Melody Carlson
Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance
Pages: 176
Release Date: September 3, 2024
Publisher: Revell

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie's unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison's heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to do: double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.

Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

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Reviewer: Tammy Lunsford

This book was a wonderful lesson about the Christmas spirit, mending family relationships, second chances and working together to accomplish something bigger.

Madison McDowell has been teaching overseas for some time. She has decided it is time to come home and work on her family’s Christmas tree farm in Oregon. When she arrives, she realizes her sister, Addie, has been neglectful in running the farm. There is a lot of work to be done if they want to sell Christmas trees for this season. Addie’s heart is not in it at all, and she just wants out. Madison wants to preserve her family’s legacy. They are at odds with one another, and their relationship is strained. 

Gavin Thompson is living next door with his daughter. Gavin was the one who got away from Madison. He broke her heart. Madison would love to catch up with him, but Addie makes it clear it is hands-off for her, as she has staked her claim on Gavin, whether he knows it or not.

Things will get tense and testy, but I applaud Madison. She kept a good attitude and did not mind working hard. Addie was actually acting more than a little bratty, but Madison took it in stride. She craved a good relationship with her only sister, so she was willing to go the extra mile. 

You can never go wrong with this author’s Christmas novellas. This one was heart-stirring and special. This was a meaningful read with characters with unique personalities and real-world problems. If you need a good dose of Christmas spirit, this book will fill your heart with joy.

Thank you to Revell through Interviews and Reviews for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. 

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Reviewer: Elizabeth Eckmeyer

What a delightful Christmas story that reads like a Hallmark movie! Madison comes home to her farm after being out of the country. While she was gone, a fire caused a lot of damage to the farm and the farms nearby. Between the fire and neglect, Madison does her best to restart the farm back up. 

While Madison makes plans, her sister Addie has been on the farm the entire time her sister has been gone. Her irritation grows as Madison works on the farm. 

Meanwhile, Gavin, a high school crush, is living next door to the farm with his daughter. The two start building a friendship that they lost years ago. 

This is a sweet story of coming home and learning who you are. You will not want to miss this light and airy story. You won’t want to put it down.

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell Publishing Group through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion.

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