The Christmas Joy Ride -- Melody Carlson

The Christmas Joy Ride – Melody Carlson

            Joy is just that – full of joy.  Although she is closer to 100 than to 50, she sets off on an adventure as she moves to her a place closer to her sons.  Miranda is her much younger friend/neighbor.  Joy convinces Miranda to take a break from life’s difficult circumstances and join her.  They journey across country together while putting Joy’s detailed plan into action.

            They hit some bumps along the way.  Some bumps are much bigger than others!

            Things I liked about this story:

-       Joy is pouring her life into younger Miranda.

-       Joy shares what she has been given.

-       Miranda learns from Joy.

-       Giving of yourself – and your stuff – just feels good!

-       You can show love even when it isn’t easy!  Who knows what people are going through in their lives -- show love!

I love watching Christmas Hallmark movies.  This book could be added to and turned into a cute movie!  It is a fun sweet read!  This would even make a great gift book!  Hardcover!!!

**I was given this book by Revell in exchange for an honest review!**

A Reason to Stay - Kellie Coates Gilbert

A Reason to Stay – Kellie Coates Gilbert

I have never read a book by Kellie Coates Gilbert before – that will change! This is NOT the first book in the series, but I think they can all be stand-alone novels.  After reading A Reason to Stay I want to go back and read her other novels.

Faith is a Type A personality ready to prove to the world that she is successful and has her life together!  Geary takes life at an easier pace.  He puts people before work.  They fall in love, and I just can’t help but wonder if Geary is just focused on Faith’s physical beauty.  Geary seems way more committed to God than Faith does.  That said – Geary is ALL IN – and he truly loves Faith.

Their relationship gets pretty rocky.  Then something tragic happens, and their worlds come to a sudden stop.  Priorities are reexamined.  Lives are changed.  Love is learned.  Forgiveness is given.  Hope is restored. 

A Reason to Stay is a really good book.  It made me anxious.  It made me sad.  It made me smile.  Good books provoke emotion.  I was on Team Faith.  I was on Team Geary.   

**I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.**