Contemporary Romance Book Review: The Unplanned Christmas Family

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About the Book

Title: The Unplanned Christmas Family 

Authors: Angie Dicken 

Genre: Contemporary Romance 

Publisher: Love Inspired  

Release Date: October 22, 2024 

Click here to purchase a copy of this book. 

Publisher's Book Description

“’Tis the season for a fresh start…

and a second chance at love.

After a stressful season, event planner Natalie Cooper has strict instructions from her doctor: rest. But when her grandmother volunteers her to plan her retirement community’s Christmas fundraiser, she can’t say no. Now she’s being roped into working alongside the home’s director, Thad MacDougall. The grumpy single father’s priority is his relationship with his son, and Natalie’s workaholic tendencies have them butting heads over every detail. But through hot cocoa and ice fishing with Thad and his son, Natalie’s about to discover that her chaos-filled holiday break might be just what the doctor ordered…”

 

My Review

The Unplanned Christmas Family, by Angie Dicken, is a sweet, contemporary romance that is enjoyable and entertaining. Brimming with small town charm, friends, and family, this book is truly engaging and uplifting. 

 

A small town in Iowa is the perfect setting for a story that sparkles with old friends, Christmas traditions, and holiday community events. From the dining room of the Retirement Community, to the snowy banks of the nearby lake, there are several meaningful spaces from which the story easily unfolds.  

 

The appealing characters in this book are also quite special. Though they experience frustrations and uncertainties, they dare to take risks, share their vulnerabilities, and face their insecurities. With honesty, perseverance, and a bit of courage, they endeavor to heal from past hurts as they pursue healing and wholeness. They learn the value of honesty and trust as they pursue their hearts’ desires. 

 

With themes centered around the value of family and proper priorities, The Unplanned Christmas Family is an endearing novel. Filled with hope, compassion, resiliency, trust, and second chances it is genuinely heartwarming. It is a thoughtful, well-written story, and I gladly recommend it. 

 

*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher/author. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

About the Author: Angie Dicken

“Best-selling author Angie Dicken balances a busy schedule of school sports and activities, date nights with her husband, and get-togethers with her longtime friends. Whether historical or contemporary settings, Angie writes clean, heart-deep stories.” --Biography from Angie Dicken’s author page on Amazon.com.

Click here to visit Angie Dicken's website.

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