Book Review: Christmas at Harrington's by Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson has written a delightful Christmas book that speaks of redemption and hope. The love of God shines through as Lena, the main character, finds her way in a new town after being released from prison. There is betrayal, disappointment, and difficulty along the way, but in the end, God's grace triumphs.

Here is the description of the book from the publisher, Revell Books:

Christmas is approaching, and Lena Markham finds herself penniless, friendless, and nearly hopeless. She is trying to restart her life, but job opportunities are practically nonexistent. When a secondhand red coat unexpectedly lands her a job as Mrs. Santa at a department store, Lena finally thinks her luck is changing. But can she keep her past a secret?

The setting for this book is a small town in northern Minnesota, present day. I like how Mrs. Carlson gives us that small town feel and makes it seem real. The characters are lovable, especially Moira, a sweet older lady who befriends Lena on her first day out of prison, and Jemima, a playful 6 1/2 year-old who lives in the boarding house where Lena finds her first home. I even enjoyed the character of Lucy, the hard-nosed, but soft underneath landlord of the boarding house.

This was simply a fun Christmas book, a story that just makes you sigh at the end, knowing that "God is in His heaven, and all's right with the world." Perhaps slightly sappy, but good.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great Christmas read. I give Christmas at Harrington's 4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

(I received this book from Revell Books for review purposes. I received no monetary compensation for this review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.)