Title: The Christmas Shoppe
Author: Melody Carlson
First published September 1, 2011
168 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780800719265 (ISBN10: 0800719263)
Rating: 3.73
Overview
When young and bright-eyed Emily Pratt inherits the old Barton Building on the quaint main street of Parrish Springs, the townsfolk are skeptical. They don’t believe that a twenty-something could possibly have the experience and expertise to run a successful Christmas store.
But as Emily works tirelessly to transform the dilapidated building into a beautiful holiday wonderland, she discovers that the magic of Christmas has a way of bringing people together. With the help of her quirky staff and the support of the tight-knit community, Emily’s shop becomes the talk of the town.
Filled with heartwarming moments and a touch of holiday magic, Melody Carlson’s The Christmas Shoppe is a delightful Christmas tale that will warm your heart and lift your spirits.
About the Author
Award-winning author Melody Carlson has written over 200 books, with a focus on Christmas novellas from Revell. One of her most popular works is The Christmas Bus.
In addition to her holiday-themed stories, Carlson also writes teen books, such as the Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors, and Carter House Girls series.
Her inspirational books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, have earned her a nomination for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. The latter is currently being adapted into a Lifetime Television movie.
Carlson and her husband are active members of the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
Editoral Review
In Melody Carlson’s heartwarming novel, The Christmas Shoppe, readers are transported to the idyllic small town of Parrish Springs during the holiday season. First published in 2011, the book captures the essence of the season while exploring themes of forgiveness, hope, and community.
Carlson, a prolific author of Christian fiction, brings her considerable experience and talent to bear in this charming tale. Her writing is evocative and vivid, painting a picture of a town that resembles an idealized version of Americana.
The story is told from the perspective of a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles, fears, and hopes. The plot centers around a newcomer named Mrs.
Miracle, who opens a Christmas shop in town, much to the delight of the locals. As the townspeople rally around the shop and each other, they come to realize the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of forgiveness and second chances.
While the plot of The Christmas Shoppe may seem predictable, Carlson’s skillful character development and pacing keep the story engaging and fresh. Each character has their own story arc, and the ways in which they intersect and influence each other are expertly woven together.
The setting, too, is a character in its own right, and Carlson’s descriptions of the town and its inhabitants evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. One of the book’s strengths is its portrayal of a tight-knit small town community.
In an era of political division and social isolation, there is something comforting about the way in which the characters come together to support and care for each other. The book also explores the theme of second chances, a universal message that is particularly resonant during the holiday season.
Despite these strengths, there are some shortcomings in The Christmas Shoppe. Some readers may find the story overly saccharine or predictable, and there are moments where the character development feels a bit rushed or contrived.
Additionally, the book’s Christian themes may not appeal to all readers. Overall, however, The Christmas Shoppe is a delightful read, perfect for curling up with a cup of cocoa and getting into the holiday spirit.
Fans of Christian fiction, small town stories, and heartwarming tales of redemption will find much to love in this book. I would give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
