Book Review | The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

 

Today I am reviewing The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

Book Description

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family’s Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie’s unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison’s heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there’s only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work–and some help from an unlikely ally–to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.

Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

Book Review

Thanks to Netgalley for my review copy

Every year I look forward to Melody’s Christmas novella. Every year the stories are different which adds to the enjoyment. I have been to different parts of the world with these books.

This one takes place in Oregon on a Christmas tree farm. Madison is coming home after time working overseas to help with the Christmas tree farm she now owns with her sister Addie. Growing up Madison was the outdoors girls helping her dad and grandfather while Addie was the indoors girl curled up with a book. When she gets home Addie is cool to her. She notices the farm needs work but Addie is more intent on selling.

Next door the farm had lost its hazelnut trees but there is a caravan there. Turns out to be a former friend from childhood Gavin and his daughter Lily. I actually think Lily is one of the best side characters in the book.

I loved how the book unfolded. We learnt the girls history how after her parents divorce they spent summers, thanksgiving and Christmas at the farm. Of the relationship they has with grandparents and parents. To the fun with the neighbouring kids. We learn how they come to be co-owners of the farm and how both girls are different. As the book goes on we learn what drives Madison and the memories made at the farm. We also see what has happened to Gavin in the preceding years.

I can’t say to much as you have to read the book but read this book in a day. I want to go to a tree farm in North America and cut down a tree and get a wreath, and all that goes with it. We often see the tree farms mentioned in Christmas movies or books but don’t often get the inside scoop.

A great read for Christmas. Actually you could read it anytime as it starts in Autumn. It went well here cos it was really cold the day I read it.

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