Saturday, October 28, 2017

Reviewer's bookshelf: Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander


Book Summary (from Goodreads): A novella to launch a brand new three-book series . . .

In the midst of war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas, the cost of love . . . and of loving again.

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. About to be evicted, she sees an advertisement for the Ladies Aid Society Auction and applies for a position—only to discover it's been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity. And friendship. But can she trust him? Is Jake Winston the man he appears to be? Having lost everything once, Aletta is determined to guard not only her own heart, but also her son's.

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffers a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Ladies Aid Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.

Set against the backdrop of the real history of Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored . . . at Christmas.

My thoughts... I have read all of Tamera Alexander's books, with the exception of a novella she previously wrote in a collection. Why? I'm not really that big into novellas. I always feel like everything is so rushed...the romantic connection between the characters, the plot...everything. And I realize it has to be...it's a novella. So why did I read this one? I didn't realize it was a novella when I signed up to read it! 
: ) It was a mistake I do not regret!

I may not be convinced to pick up all novellas, but I will pick up this author's. Even with a shorter book, the characters were well developed. The pace of their interaction and building relationship was just right. Enough to satisfy by the end, but not so much that it was totally unrealistic. Quite enjoyable!

I am also excited about the beginning of a new series by Tamera Alexander. She is able to intertwine real historical events and places with fictional characters with skill and creativity. In Christmas at Carnton, the horrors of war, but also the way people came together to support one another, was a big part of the novella. Friendship and unity among people of different race, background, and social status was really the central theme, which I loved as well. 

Get ready for the holiday season by picking up Christmas at Carnton!

**I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in order to give an honest review, which I did**


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