JoAnn Durgin

Melodies of Christmas Love
In this collection is a story I have read..
..
A Night Divine by Dawn Kinzer
Although part of a series this can be read as a stand alone.
There are a lot of characters and it's easy to keep track of who they all are in reference to one another.
Book starts out with a dedication and a quote from the bible.
Story starts off with Camryn: Camryn is a not only a model but is very successful and comes from a family with a lot of money but she doesn't let that rule what she does.
When she notices her long lost friend Amy on the streets after an event she tries to help her but she collapsed and as George is calling for 911 a man, Trace shows up to aide her in recovery.
Trace and Camryn spent a lot of time together and he's not taken the time to tell her his whole back story but she finds out from a visitor to the shelter...
Camryn then helps out a few times at the shelter where food and other items are given to the homeless. She has an idea about the Christmas meal and asks others in her family to help.
Trace thought he was the one always in charge but things happen and he's satisfied that so many are getting help.
Other pleas for help come in and they all band together to find out the right solutions for everybody.
Love how they all come together along with religion...
Ends with a letter to the readers from the author, quote from Matthew 25:40(it's also noted throughout the story)
acknowledgements to readers and others important in her life.
Meet the author is also included and a link to her amazon author page.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.… (altro)

I love, love , love anything this author writes. As I read this story I thought of the word lyrical. Her words are like a sweet song that brings a feeling of warmth and content. The story is filled with Greek heritage that I was fascinated by. I loved Vara so much. She is the kind of person others gravitate to. Her warmth is evident and I loved how she is a bit guarded at times with her personal life. Her dedication to helping others is a refreshing trait.

The information about strokes is very informative and I can tell the author has done extensive research in this area. I’m sure many of us know someone who has had a stroke. It can be life changing and I admire Vara for her dedication to working with stroke patients. I did laugh when she runs into Thornton at a coffee shop. Their banter was funny at times and I found him a bit mysterious. When they meet again Vara is very surprised to see him. I have to say I didn’t see that coming myself. It’s just another brilliant way the author writes that keeps readers involved in the story. She gives subtle hints of upcoming scenes but not enough to give it away.

The story is really a lesson in forgiveness and letting go of secrets. I found Charlotte to be a wonderful character. Something has held her back from giving her life to Jesus? Will she reveal her secret? With Vara and Thornton growing closer each day, can Vara let go of a past hurt to open her heart again? I loved how the story bleneded historical places with the characters and gave readers a glimpse into their heritage . I did like the reference to NASA and Houston, Texas as its my home town. What I loved the most about the story was how strong Thornton was in his faith and how he treated women with respect. This is one story that sweeps across years and finds its way to the present where truth will set someone free. It’s so nice to read how powerful forgiveness is and when you experience it, you feel renewed and joy for a brighter future. I highly recommend this book to everyone. It’s a beautiful story filled with scripture, family, love and forgiveness.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (altro)

Title: The Christmas Challenge: A Contemporary Christian Romance Novel
Author: JoAnn Durgin
Publisher: J. D.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"The Christmas Challenge: A Contemporary Christian Romance Novel" by JoAnn Durgin

'My Thoughts...

This was a beautifully written Christian Romance read that took place in Serendipity, Pennsylvania. I really enjoyed the read from its beginning to the very end. You will find this author giving the reader a read full of 'wit, humor and a beautiful romance' where you will be left being so very inspired by all of the wonderful prayers from this christian walk. At times I was even was left teared up from this read of just how this relationship was developing this second time around. Truly Claire and Donovan were made for each other and it was such a delight seeing how they finally got to this point. I loved the Christmas theme of "The Christmas Challenge" in how it was so well brought out in this well written read Christmas holiday read. You will be left with some 'sweet memories, some drama and a very clean romance. Would I recommend this Christian novel? YES! It is definitely worth your read.… (altro)