A Simple Christmas Wish by Melody Carlson ~ review

• Hardcover: 176 pages
• Publisher: Revell (September 15, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0800719654
• ISBN-13: 978-0800719654

This book is also available as an ebook.

Rachel Milligan is caring for her seven-year-old niece, Holly, at her home in Chicago when she receives devastating news: Holly's parents have been killed in a plane crash. Because Rachel is Holly's only known relative, she assumes that she will be her beloved niece's guardian. However, custody is awarded to Lydia, a distant aunt who happens to be Amish. Just a week before Christmas, Rachel takes Holly to the Amish community in the hopes of persuading Aunt Lydia to relinquish custody. Instead, Lydia sets out to teach Holly to live according to the Amish way. As family secrets emerge and old wounds are healed, Rachel realizes that she will do whatever it takes to ensure that Holly has the loving family she needs. 
Combining an Amish family saga with the anticipation of Christmas cheer and the promise of a budding romance, this newest Christmas story from beloved author Melody Carlson is sure to please.

My take on this book:

As a fan of Melody Carlson I am always excited to see what she comes up with next, and with "A Simple Christmas Wish" we get an Amish story that made for an interesting Christmas read. 35 year old Rachel Milligan is a bit jaded when it comes to Christmas, but caring for her almost seven year old niece Holly in Chicago while Holly's parents are on a trip has her pretending to be in the spirit for Holly. When news comes that Holly's parents were killed in a plane crash, Rachel is surprised to learn that the guardianship of Holly has been awarded to a distant aunt who happens to be Amish. When Rachel takes Holly to the Amish community it is with one goal in mind and that's to convince the aunt to allow her to keep Holly. Who will Holly wind up with?

A wonderful story that starts with tragedy and sadness but will put a feel good smile on your face by the time you reach the conclusion. The characters are so easy to like and connect with. I could really feel the love that Rachel felt for Holly, she truly wanted the right thing for her. The author weaves in a few plot twists to keep the story moving along at a good pace and because it's a novella I read it in one sitting. Overall, a feel good story that reminds readers of what really is important in life. Fans of Amish fiction will enjoy this one, but anyone looking for a heartwarming story that takes place during the holiday season will want to read this one as well.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review.

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”