A Christmas by the Sea

By Melody Carlson

When Wendy Harper inherits her family's beachside cottage in Seaside, Maine, she sees it as a way to finally pay off the debts that have mounted since her husband died. But before it can be sold, the neglected property must be renovated. She and her 12-year-old son Jackson move in--temporarily, she reminds him--in order to do the work themselves, even though Christmas is coming. The charming town, along with local craftsman Caleb Colton, pulls on both Wendy and Jackson, who even registers himself for school in a bid to get his mom to move them there permanently. Wendy knows that the most responsible thing to do is to sell the cottage and return to Ohio, but the lure of the sea is hard to resist.

Join award-winning author Melody Carlson for a Christmas story that will warm your heart and have you dreaming of your own enchanted seaside holiday.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
• Release date: Sep 4, 2018
• ISBN: 9781493415045

Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books for teens, women, and children. Before publishing, Melody traveled around the world, volunteered in teen ministry, taught preschool, raised two sons, and worked briefly in interior design and later in international adoption. "I think real-life experiences inspire the best fiction," she says. Her wide variety of books seems to prove this theory.

Book preview

© 2018 by Carlson Management, Inc.

Published by Revell

a division of Baker Publishing Group

PO Box 6287, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6287

www.revellbooks.com

Ebook edition created 2018

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—for example, electronic, photocopy, recording—without the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is on file at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC.

ISBN 978-1-4934-1504-5

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Praise for The Christmas Blessing

Delightful prose and an affirming resolution will please readers.

Publishers Weekly

Novelist Melody Carlson has written a deftly crafted, consistently entertaining, and ultimately inspiring story of love, hardship, and reconciliation that will leave readers filled with Christmas joy.

The Midwest Book Review

Praise for The Christmas Angel Project

Carlson’s latest holiday offering is sure to become a fan favorite! Full of hope, it embodies all that is beloved about the Christmas season.

RT Book Reviews

Praise for The Christmas Joy Ride

No one captures the heartwarming fun of the Christmas season quite like Melody Carlson.

USA Today

Popular and seasoned author Carlson skillfully draws readers into the lives of her characters; they, too, will feel like they are traveling along Route 66. Fans of Robin Jones Gunn and Catherine Palmer will surely find themselves snatching this quick Christmas read off the shelves.

Library Journal

Uplifting and meaningful.

RT Book Reviews

Contents

Cover

Title Page

Copyright Page

Endorsements

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About the Author

Books by Melody Carlson

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Back Cover

one

WENDY HARPER never considered herself a deceitful person. In fact, she was so scrupulously honest that it sometimes got her in trouble. Yet as she drove her jam-packed Subaru wagon over the Maine state line, she felt a gnawing sense of guilt. Maybe it was deceit by omission, but she knew it was wrong to let Jackson draw his own conclusions about their trip. Even if it was a convenient deception, she needed to convey the truth to her son. Without squelching his spirit—and hopefully before they reached their destination.

Wendy turned on the wipers, praying there wasn’t snow in the drops pelting her windshield. It was late November, and although Ohio had been unseasonably warm when they’d left home, she knew that weather could change in an instant on the eastern seaboard. She glanced over to see that Jackson had drifted off. He might be a preadolescent, but he always appeared younger and more vulnerable while sleeping. Of course, his sweet innocence only added to her mother lode of guilt. She resisted the urge to adjust his oversized glasses, currently resting cockeyed on his straight freckled nose, or to remove his bright blue earbuds. Best to let sleeping boys lie.

Wendy knew her twelve-year-old was on the cusp of manhood. He was already as tall as her, and his voice had recently grown a bit deeper and cracked occasionally. Her best friend, Claire, claimed it was because Jackson was trying too hard to grow up and take his father’s place. He confided something to me last summer when he was helping me with yard work, Claire had disclosed just days ago. "He said Edward told him he’d have to become the man of the house . . . you know, after . . ."

Wendy had been both surprised and dismayed to hear this. It was hard to believe her husband would say such a thing to a child. What a heavy load to lay on a nine-year-old. Yet it did explain Jackson’s change of interests these past couple of years—giving up soccer and lacrosse, spending more time at home. She loved that he was reading more but hated seeing him turn into a young hermit.

Jackson had even begged Wendy for home school, claiming he could keep up with his studies online. Worried about social isolation and lack of supervision, Wendy had promised to make this decision after Christmas. He’d protested, but a phone call from her grandfather’s attorney provided the perfect distraction. Although Poppa had passed away last summer, Wendy had never expected him to leave her his beach cottage in Maine. When Jackson heard the news, he acted like they’d won the lottery! Even though she was touched by Poppa’s generosity, her only goal was to get the property sold ASAP.

We gotta go there! Jackson had declared. At first she balked, knowing they couldn’t afford the round-trip airfare or the time a drive from Ohio to Maine and back would require. But Jackson kept pushing until she finally gave in. Taking a few days off work during Thanksgiving week sounded doable—and that way she could personally meet the Realtor, list the house, and hopefully sell the cottage quickly. That money would help her and Jackson immensely.

The decision to drive to Maine was like a tonic for Jackson. A whole new boy, he’d even quit complaining about school. Of course, she eventually discovered that was because he’d been telling everyone that they were permanently relocating to Seaside, Maine. Despite her telling him to pack only enough for two weeks, he’d shoved everything he could fit into every crevice of her old Subaru. But his erroneous assumption had been so transformative that she’d simply kept her mouth shut. She just couldn’t bear to rain on his happy parade. Oh, she attempted to dissuade him a few times. She’d warned him that the beach cottage was just a summer place that would be freezing cold in winter. But Jackson, ever the online researcher, insisted they could weatherize it themselves.

And I can chop firewood and fix things, he’d offered. Every obstacle she tossed his way was soundly batted back with stubborn youthful optimism. Even when she described the house as a tiny, run-down shack—probably dilapidated, rodent infested, and rotting—he totally dismissed her concerns. And as she’d stuffed the last box into the back of the Subaru, she’d noticed Edward’s old toolbox wedged in a corner.

Wendy glanced at her rearview mirror to see the stacked boxes and bags filling the back of her car. Unsure of what they’d find in the neglected cabin, she’d packed everything but the kitchen sink. And since her boss had generously granted her additional vacation time, they would be in Seaside for a while. Almost until Christmas.

Of course, her packing and preparations had simply bolstered Jackson’s confidence that they were gone for good. And with each passing mile, his excitement and optimism had grown. While it made him a congenial traveling companion, it made her increasingly uneasy. She really needed to get him to understand their real purpose.

In his enthusiasm, Jackson had gone online, researching all he could find about Seaside and the Maine coast. Now he was convinced that he would learn to fish and sail . . . and to surf next summer. The more he’d shared his hopeful dreams the harder it became to disclose the whole truth. She hinted when she got the chance, but how could she admit that the real purpose of this trip was to spend a few weeks fixing up the beach cottage—then sell it? It would crush him.

Wendy didn’t know the real value of Poppa’s beach cottage, but even if it was a dilapidated wreck, which was possible, she felt certain the beachside location would be enough to wipe out the medical bills that insurance didn’t cover and provide a small safety net for her and Jackson. If she was lucky it might even pay off their student loans and seed a small college fund for Jackson. She was probably overly optimistic, but no matter what, it would help.

She never discussed finances with Jackson, but Edward’s battle with cancer had left her deep in debt. Even after selling their home, which had little equity, and moving to an affordable apartment, she’d been unable to climb out. Edward hadn’t worked long enough before getting sick to have much in social security benefits. Certainly not enough to support them. So inheriting Poppa’s sea cottage felt like a gift from God—just what they needed to get back on their feet. She was determined, no matter how much Jackson loved it and protested, the cottage must be sold.

Jackson suddenly sat up, giving her a start. Are we there yet? He chuckled at his own gaffe. Sorry, Mom—you warned me not to say that again.

Well, as it turns out, we passed the Maine state line around noon and—

Jackson let out a happy whoop. You should’ve woken me up. How much longer till Seaside?

I really hope to get there before dark. Why don’t you check the GPS and tell me our ETA. She knew how Jackson liked acronyms.

Within seconds, he reported that they would arrive at their destination in three hours and seven minutes. According to my calculations, that will be about 3:54, he declared. Unless we stop.

Well, I do need a pit stop and we need gas. I don’t think Seaside even has a gas station, she told him.

And I’m kinda hungry.

We’ll grab a quick bite and eat it in the car to save time.

Sunset is supposed to be at 4:09, he told her. That’s because Maine is so far north. The shortened daylight time might take some getting used to, but I heard the long summer days make up for it. Do you know that the astronomical twilight lasts until almost eleven o’clock in late June? That’ll be so cool.

I don’t know what an astronomical twilight is, but I do remember very late summer evenings. She grimaced to think of how he’d never get to experience that.

"Did you go to Seaside every summer as a kid?" he asked with interest.

Every summer I can remember. Well, until I was seventeen. I had a job that summer—and then it was college and the distractions that came with it.

Like getting married? he teased.

Right. After graduation, Dad and I moved to Cincinnati for his work. And not long after that, you came along, and, well, life just got busier and busier. She remembered how she used to long for Seaside, like clockwork, every summer—even more so when it got hot and humid in Ohio.

So you haven’t been back in almost twenty years? That’s like a whole ’nother lifetime, Mom.

Seems like it to me too. But even so, I can remember every bit of it like yesterday.

Tell me more about it, Mom. You haven’t really given me that many details.

She considered how to paint this picture without making it too rosy—or being disingenuous. Well, the ocean is beautiful. That obviously won’t have changed. And you’ll see it soon enough.

What about our house, Mom? And don’t tell me it’s falling down.

The house . . . She imagined the picturesque cottage with its weathered cedar shingles and white painted trim. Well, I do recall the toilet had to be flushed twice . . . and the musty smell of the back porch and how the front porch sagged a little.

"Tell me something good, Mom."

Let’s see . . . the living room had this massive rock fireplace. I think my great-grandfather built it. The stonework was really pretty . . . although the fire would smoke up the house on a windy day. She sighed. But the truth is I loved that smell. It would seep into my clothes, kind of like being around a campfire. And then there was my little dormer bedroom. It was tiny, but I loved it. My window looked out over the sea. She smiled at Jackson. In fact, you can use that room if you like. Although she wasn’t eager to take occupancy of her grandparents’ downstairs bedroom, it would be the grown-up thing to do.

Awesome! He nodded. Tell me more about our house.

My next-favorite room was probably the kitchen. It had a big old gas stove and a linoleum floor that squeaked when you walked. There were buttery yellow cabinets and blue-and-white checked curtains on the windows. And Gammi used to make the best clam chowder—from clams that we dug ourselves. I hope I can find her recipe.

How old were you when your grandma died?

I was in college, she said sadly.

And then your parents died right after that? His voice was laced with longing and she felt bad for the way her son had been deprived of extended family. Edward’s parents had their own busy lives down in Fort Lauderdale, and hers had been killed in the

Reviews for A Christmas by the Sea

[gkmiller4 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I really don't have any complaints about this book. It turned a bit religious...but it is a holiday book. Although I was looking more for a secular holiday book. I do wish it was longer though!

[tatoosh-3 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

The appeal of romance is practically universal. It’s a significant element in most genre’s: science fiction, western’s, action, adventure, mystery. Occasionally I’ll even pick up a book I know is an overt romance such as Melody Carlson’s “A Christmas by the Sea” for a quick, easy, uplifting read. Unfortunately, Carlson’s cloyingly sweet approach is so over-the-top it lacks verisimilitude and becomes irritating. The exaggerated emphasis on “faith,” in which ”God will provide” is viewed by talented, intelligent people as the answer to real problems will further diminish the reading pleasure of readers who do not perceive that as the answer to all of life’s challenges.Another exaggerated aspect of the plot is Wendy’s inability to set reasonable limits with her son, Jackson. Time after time she resolves to explains the reality of their financial situation to him, only to back off in the face of his manipulative behavior. Carlson provides a good illustration of mildly dysfunctional parenting.Nevertheless, “A Christmas by the Sea” will appeal to readers who are willing to look past these shortcomings. Sometimes we all have had enough of “reality” in our lives and value the opportunity to spend some time in a day-dream world. “A Christmas by the Sea” may be an attractive choice for a rainy Saturday afternoon in front of the fireplace.

[gincam · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I very much enjoyed "A Christmas by the Sea", a charming holiday novella from author Melody Carlson. The characters are engaging, and although the storyline is poignant, it is written with genuine warmth. A widow with a pre-teen son, Wendy Harper is at a crossroads in her life. Traveling from Ohio to Maine to check out her inheritance of her family's beach cottage. with hopes of selling it, seems like a good way to resolve her financial problems. First, she has to renovate the cottage to make it saleable, and second (and most important), she has to make sure that her son, Jackson, understands that they can't stay to live in the little village of Seaside, Maine. They both soon fall for the way of life by the shore and the homey atmosphere of the cottage. Making things even more appealing for them both is meeting local business owner Caleb Colton, who befriends Jackson and sets Wendy's heart aflutter. As time passes, more reasons pop up to extend their stay through the holidays. Jackson even adopts a stray dog--or did the dog adopt Jackson? Mutual admiration grows between Wendy and Caleb, but can she leave behind the life she knows and take a chance on a bright and shining future full of happiness? "A Christmas by the Sea" is a heartfelt holiday tale from the talented Melody Carlson.Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via Library Thing

[carlathelibrarian · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Every Christmas season I look forward to Melody Carlson's newest holiday book. It was a quick story (only 167 pages) but it was packed with emotion, family love, and second chances. Wendy and her son are struggling financially after her husband died several years ago from cancer. Left with medical bills and student loans, finding out that she had inherited her grandparent's beach house seems like a true blessing. Heading to the small town of Seaside, Wendy plans on fixing it up the cottage and quickly selling it and moving back to Ohio. What she doesn't plan on is that her son Jackson will fall in love with the cottage, the town and the people. A friendly and slobbery dog rounds out the picture of the new home that Jackson is hoping will be theirs. With the help of local craftsman, Caleb, Wendy tries to make a living using her craft skills and shells she and Jackson find so she can remain in Seaside. When Jackson finds out that his mother wants to move back to Ohio, he does what an adolescent does, he tries to force his mother's hand. Will Wendy be able to financially support her small family with the crafts she makes or will she and her heartbroken son have to return to Ohio?

This is a sweet story of family, second chances, independence and romance. What could be better than spending the holiday season in a gorgeous beach town that feels like home and the bonus of a new possible romance for Wendy. Can God answer their prayers to be able to start a new life in this small town that feels more like home than Ohio ever did. The story flows beautifully and is well paced. The characters in the story are all helpful in trying to get Wendy and Jackson to stay, all except for the pretty Crystal, who seems to have her own feelings for Caleb. This is a beautiful story about spiritual and personal growth. A magical Christmas story that can be read in a day by a warm fire. The publisher, Revell, provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, opinions and ideas are my own.

[foggidawn · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

When Wendy Harper returns to the seaside cottage in Maine where she spent many childhood summers, her plan is to fix the house up quickly and put it on the market. Her 12-year-old son Jackson wants to live there year-round, but Wendy can’t see how she could make a living in a little tourist town, despite the fact that it seems busier than she expected based on her memories. She has a few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas to get everything done, and no time for romance . . . even if local artisan Caleb Colton does seem particularly charming and attentive. As the days go by, Wendy finds herself wishing there was some way she could stay.This inspirational novella was a pleasant diversion, nice and Christmassy, though not particularly deep or realistic. Jackson was way too perfect for an adolescent, and the ending of the book seemed rather abrupt. However, I’d still recommend it to readers of inspirational fiction looking for a nice, seasonal selection. I listened to the audiobook, and would recommend that format.

[jenniferrobb · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

It's a sweet book--but you pretty much know the ending from the start. Wendy inherits a Maine beach cottage from her grandfather. She plans to sell it and continue their life in Ohio. Her son Jackson talks her into visiting it first and both he and Wendy like hearing her stories about the summers she spent their with her grandparents. Wendy is pleasantly surprised to find the town both changed and unchanged. Some aspects are similar to what she remembers and others (such as a gas station) are new since she was last there. In fact, the only things wrong with it seem to be Wendy's belief that there is no "family wage" work for her there and Crystal, an employee at "She Sells Sea Shells".Wendy meets Caleb Colton at the hardware store and then runs into him again at the sea shell store. Caleb befriends both her and Jackson--much to Crystal's dismay. The ending of the book came out of the blue for me. I knew the author was trying to set up a love interest between Caleb and Wendy, but the romance moved from meeting to proposal too fast for my taste. (The meet shortly before Thanksgiving and the book ends prior to December 23rd.) So while I did predict the where will we live? plot point resolution, I didn't think the romance would close the book.In the end, we don't know if Caleb made good on his words that Crystal would not have a job the following week (due to her eavesdropping and telling Jackson what she overheard). We don't know if Wendy goes to work as a salesperson for Caleb or takes over Crystal's job in both stores. We don't know if they choose to live in Wendy's cottage or Caleb's.

[wearylibrarian · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Wendy and her son, Jackson, move to the cottage her grandparents owned on costal Maine. She knows it is only temporary but Jackson is telling everyone it is permanent. He even registered himself for school. Wendy decides to stay until after the holidays but has trouble convincing Jackson they must go home. The cottage requires a lot of work and she just can't afford it. But as time goes on, Wendy finds herself wanting to stay. Now she has to find a way to support them and to fix up the cottage. Of course,nthere is a love interest....and Jackson plays Cupid.A fun read. I found myself pulling for Jackson and getting upset with Wendy for being so stubborn.

[nicnac63 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Christmas by the Sea has so many elements I love. It’s a quick read that can be finished in one sitting, it has a fixer-upper element (which I’ve grown to love) and even most importantly, it flows smoothly and gives me the feels.Wendy Harper, a widow and mother, is an intriguing character that I rooted for and sympathized with. I also enjoyed the Maine setting—a place I’ve not visited yet but is on my bucket list.There are only a few cons. Wendy’s distress was a little weighing at times—understandable, but a bit overdone, and I wish Christmas and the spiritual aspect were a little more pronounced. Overall, this is another sweet, quick read by Melody Carlson. I’ve enjoyed all her stories and look forward to reading more.I received a complimentary copy of this book from the LibraryThing Early Reviewers.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Christmas by The Sea is a charming novella with a quaint coastal Maine setting. Featuring a young single mother and her preteen son, the book celebrates the power of place and family and the presence of God. Wendy Harper and son, Jackson, make their way to Seaside after a few years of struggle and heartache. Wendy had grown up visiting the cottage she has inherited and treasures the memories from happier days. Jackson wants a new start for his small family and does his best to influence Wendy into staying put in the welcoming town. Enter Caleb, a business owner even more charming than the town. Everything is set for a heartwarming tale of love.I loved the setting of A Christmas by The Sea. Maine has long been on my bucket list of must-see destinations, and the fictional town that Carlson has created just reinforces that desire. I hope the real thing will live up to the great fictional world of Seaside! Characters are real and relatable in their struggles, doubts, fears, hopes, and dreams. I especially liked Jackson and his determination to find happiness for his mom. The book is short, so the action comes fast. The romance probably develops a bit more rapidly than in real life, but I didn’t mind. This is a Christmas romance after all! The theme of God’s provision is naturally woven throughout the narrative –but it’s never preachy.If you are looking for a quick and cozy Christmas read, A Christmas by The Sea fits the bill. It is a recommended read.Recommended.Audience: adults.(Thanks to Revel for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Hooray! A new Christmas book from Melody Carlson! It has become a holiday tradition for me! I love them! Each one stirs up Christmas nostalgia and those warm feelings the season brings. Wendy is struggling financially after her husband’s death and trying to keep her life has she has known it afloat, not only for her but for her son Jackson. She can’t see past putting one foot in front of another and maintaining her job. She gets word she has inherited her grandparent’s beach cottage in Maine. Wendy sees it as a way to pay off her bills by fixing it up and selling it in the 3 weeks they are there. This will enable them to be home by Christmas. As she enters the little town that held so many happy childhood memories her emotions are in turmoil. Her 12 year old son has other plans. He wants a fresh start in a new place, as he has been miserable since his Dad’s death. The town isn’t as small and dead as it used to be. It has grown with new people and businesses. With each reminiscence, she wards off the tugs at her heart to love the town, house and people. She has blinders on envisioning their life in Ohio as the only way they can live. Jackson barrels ahead embracing every experience and moment, and appears to think they are moving there. Wendy, not wanting to burst his bubble, makes it harder on herself by not telling him the truth. His enthusiasm and joy draws her in. When we are adults and suffer tragedy, we cling to what is familiar, unable to realize new opportunities in front of us. Children’s eyes and hearts are clear to comprehend and embrace the joyfulness of new beginnings. I saw this in Wendy and Jackson. I can relate as after my husband died I too wanted to cling to what I had known, changes were frightening and sometimes still are. I have grown to realize that I cannot continue to in the life I had because a vital part of it is no longer there. Thank you Ms. Carlson for another wonderful and touching book to warm my heart!I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have stated are my own.

[croknot1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I love a feel-good story with a happy ending. This short book has both of those things in spades! If it was a longer book with the story line a bit more drawn out, I'd likely have given it five stars.Thank you to LT for allowing me to read and review this novel.

[cyncie · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A Christmas by the Sea, by Melody Carlson, is a short, sweet story about a widow and her adolescent son, who inherit a beach cottage from her grandfather and go there to get it ready to sell. The widow is feeling overwhelmed by the debts incurred by her late husband's medical care, and has to put the cottage up for sale, despite her son's love of the place and her desire to stay as well. There is a predictable and rushed happy ending.

[cherylk_44 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

I grabbed a copy of this book because I am familiar with this author. I have enjoyed previous books form this author. While, Christmas is still a few months away, I was in the mood for getting an early start with my holiday reading. Sadly, this book did not put me in the holiday mood. I struggled to connect to either of the main characters. Thus the story did not captivate me. In fact, I found it kind of dry. Try as I might, I had a hard time staying in the moment with this book. The details are hazy to remember. Overall, this book lacked the Christmas spirit for me.

[bettysunflower · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What a wonderful fun story. Its well written, fun and easy to read. Most enjoyable quick read. I look forward to reading more by this author. *Won through LibraryThing

[lcjohnson1988_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Christmas by the SeaAuthor: Melody CarlsonPages: 176Year: 2018Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 stars.Melody’s tale brings forth hope after loss, and joy after sorrow. Christmas by the Sea shares about Wendy who has inherited the summer cabin she visited with her grandparents as a little girl. Wendy is filled with stories and memories she has shared with her son Jackson throughout the years. Now she has inherited the cabin and Jackson can’t wait to see the ocean and town his mother told him so much about during the hard years of his Dad’s fatal illness.Jackson wants to stay there, and his mother Wendy would love to as well but there are tons of medical bills to pay and she doesn’t think the small town can provide for their needs. Jackson enjoys working alongside a man named Caleb who is a local woodworker and owns his own store selling his unique pieces.What follows is a very endearing tale that was enjoyable to read. The only other thought I have about the book is I think the author could have written a little more and set the ending up better before just suddenly getting there. I will read more of Melody Carlson’s books as they are fun to curl up and read. I hope readers will enjoy her Christmas by the Sea as much as I did!

[countrylife_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

If you like your holiday reading to be warm and fuzzy, this is the Christmas book for you. Coming to grips with her husband’s death, worrying how to keep moving forward financially and as a family, a mother and son travel to an inherited seaside cottage, each with their own plans for the future. Lightweight reading, but family-centric and sweet. A cozy-in-a-snowstorm kind of a read.

[coastandanchor · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A Christmas by the Sea is one of those books that you just want to curl up with a blanket, your favorite cup of tea while you dream of the small seaside town you are reading about. The characters are likeable and believable, in a way just ordinary. It begins with Wendy, a widow and mother of a 12 year old boy, doing her best to make ends meet, while protecting her son from growing up too fast. Although she quickly realizes that kids pick up on things more than adults give them credit for. Jackson, her 12 year old son, is embracing this small town vibe and flourishing at that. Although a blooming love story is woven throughout, its subtle and doesn’t feel cheesy. I enjoyed the family history that was uncovered and the seaside escapades that were sprinkled throughout. It’s one of those books that reminds you of the simple things but yet the impact they have on our hearts and overall well being. This book is what I would consider a quick read. Although I did find the beginning to stretch on for a bit, I still enjoyed the storyline and characters. So if you want something quick, light and uplifting then I would recommend A Christmas by the Sea.*Thank you to NetGalley & Revell for my copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.*

[willowone_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Wendy Harper is a widowed mother raising her son, Jackson, the best way she knows how. She certainly did not think she would be facing the loss of a husband and the debt that comes with long-term medical issues at this point in her life. She receives word that her Grandfather passed and in his will, he left her his seaside cottage. She knows that there will be some work that needs to be done in order to sell the house, so she and her son pack up the car and head out from their current home in Ohio to the Maine coast. The one thing Wendy didn't plan on was Jackson thinking they would move their permanently. Jackson has had a rough few years with his Dad passing and bullies at school so he is thinking of a new start. As Wendy runs the obstacle course of what needs to be done, Jackson's wishes, new people, situations, and her own wishes this wonderful story of family, life, love, loss, memories, and home come together for a very pleasing read. I do wish it had been a little bit longer so the ending could have come about in a more natural way and not been quite as rushed. It seemed to me to not be in keeping with the rest of the story in its timing.I read this book in 2 days and loved the ups and downs. I have always enjoyed Melody Carlson's writing style and feel she knows how to put a story together that could be true to life. Her characters are believable and I lose myself in their stories.I was given a copy of this book through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for the purpose of my honest review.

[ladyofthelodge · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was a book for Early Reviewers. In this novel, Wendy and her son Jackson journey from Ohio to their newly-inherited cottage in Seaside, Maine, where Wendy often visited her grandparents when she was a child. As a widow, Wendy has struggled to make ends meet and provide for her teen-aged son. She plans to remodel the cottage and then sell it. However, her son has other plans! As Wendy and Jackson fix up the cottage, they both fall in love with it. The novel contains some hilarious scenes as Wendy shops for materials to fix up the cottage. Both Wendy and Jackson pray for a way that they can stay in Maine. The ending is not surprising, but wraps things up neatly. I have read other Christmas stories by this author and enjoyed them all. I would consider this a novella, since it is rather short, and can be finished in an afternoon or evening by a dedicated reader. I assigned 4 and a half stars instead of 5 stars to the novel for a couple of reasons: a) if the cottage was rather old-fashioned and primitive, how did Jackson get on the Internet? b) What did Wendy do next? What about her job and all their stuff in Ohio? Maybe I am too picky with those, but I think there is room here for another follow-up novel.

[claudia.castenir · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Melody Carlson has written over two hundred books among which are many Christmas stories. All of the ones I've read, including Christmas By the Sea, are sweet, encouraging holiday stories that would make wonderful Hallmark type Christmas movies. Wendy Harper and her son Jackson are headed to Maine to see the seaside cottage she often visited while growing up, the one she had inherited from her grandfather. While Jackson dreams of making a permanent move to Maine, Wendy must face the reality that selling the cottage is the only way to pay off the debts incurred during her husband's battle with cancer. While the characters are endearing, the ending is somewhat predictable, and in true Christmas movie tradition includes a rapidly progressing romance. The main theme of the story is trusting in God's provision. If you would like a sweet, quick read, this book fits the bill. I thank NetGalley and Revell for providing me with a copy of Christmas By the Sea in exchange for an honest review. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

[mmoj_2 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I received this book from LibraryThing's Early Reviewer program in exchange for a fair review. I have a large collection of Christmas Romances so looked forward to this book.Wendy is a widow who has a lot of debt because of her husband's medical bills and their combined student loans. She receives an inheritance, her family's seaside cottage. Her idea is to fix it up and sell quick to help get herself out of debt. Her son though believes they will keep the cottage and live their permanently. As I said, quick read but for me too much was about Wendy worrying. There was actually not a lot of interaction between the two romantic leads and even less about Christmas. Liked the vision that I have of the cottage and I'm still smelling the salt air.

[macnoid · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have a big section of shelf space in my library for Melody Carlson's books, and was excited to get this book. It is a relatively short read, a pretty thin book. Books like this one....someone inheriting a beach cottage, and fixing it up, reconnecting with childhood memories, is rather the stuff of daydreams. Very enjoyable! Getting a chance to start over in a new, warm community is also fun to read about...rather like 'moving to vacationland'! Wendy and her son Jackson are still coping with the loss of the husband/dad, but their relationship is a good one. Much as Wendy wants to stay, she has to be practical, and selling the cottage and going back home is her plan all along.....until she sees the changes in her son, and embraces childhood memories and life in the small seaside town, and meets Caleb! My only complaint about the book is that it was too short, and ended a bit abruptly. (It is, after all, one of those Christmas novellas!) There wasn't enough time spent developing a relationship (over the 2 weeks or so they knew each other) ; and not much romance considering the ending. I would have liked to at least read an epilogue .....had some tying up of loose ends! As it was, I kept wanting to pick up the book to finish it....but there was no more to read! Still....a very good read! (And maybe she'll add an epilogue since it's not been released yet??)

[harley0326 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This enchanting story will be coming out in September but it's worth getting excited about. The author writes with such compassion for her characters. Wendy has just discovered that she has inherited her family's picturesque cottage by the beach. Wendy can remember all the fun times she had there as a kid and it brings back fond memories.She packs up her twelve year old son, Jackson and takes a trip to see the cottage in Seaside, Maine. I could easily hear the waves as she got closer to the cottage. It was a glorious sight to take in. I loved Jackson's excitement as he got closer to what he thought was going to be his new home. I wonder when Wendy will tell Jackson they are only there long enough to fix the place up and sell it?I'm sure Wendy is a bit surprised to see how much work needs to be down on the place. She finds a very helpful person at the hardware place who is an expert it seems in paint and floors. Caleb knows his way around since he is a craftsman. With an overwhelming amount of work to get done, Wendy and Jackson get to work on the cottage. I liked that Wendy took time to go shell hunting with Jackson. Jackson has so much energy and happiness is written all over himself. He loves the new place and is hoping his mom will change her mind about moving. Will the sea call Wendy to stay and make new memories with her son? Can Caleb convince Wendy to spend Christmas there or will she leave and go back to her home in Ohio? This is a short book, but it has so many great qualities that make the story flow with hope and a promise of a wonderful Christmas that feels your heart with family and love.I received a copy of this book from the Early Reader Program from The LibraryThing. The review is my own opinion.

[Shelly Cannon · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

awesome book i could not put it done . cant wait read more from this author.

[hes7 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Yay for another new Christmas novella! It may only nearly be autumn, but I can’t help getting excited for the imminent holiday season. And reading Melody Carlson’s A Christmas by the Sea is a delightful way to spark that spirit early.When she inherits a Maine cottage, Wendy Harper sees it as a blessing: After renovations and repairs, its selling price could cover her financial burdens and debts. So, she and her son move to the cottage temporarily to take care of the work themselves. Only, the cottage’s charming, seaside town holds more allure than Wendy expected.A Christmas by the Sea is a quick, heartwarming read for Christmastime, perfect for a reader in need of romance, family, and new beginnings.Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a complimentary copy of A Christmas by the Sea and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[sandralb-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Review I enjoy reading Melody Carlson's novels. I found this “A Christmas by the Sea” to be a sweet quick read, I finished in one afternoon. It's a great story about small town USA. It takes place in Seaside, Maine. Melody does a great job of taking you down main street, describing the different stores the town square as well as walking along the coastal beach. You can almost feel the breeze and smell the salt water as the mist splashes your face. Wendy Harper has inherited her grandparents cottage. She has driven for three days across country with her 12 year old son Jackson. Wendy plans to renovate the cottage and sell it as quickly as possible. Due to hospital bills from her husbands cancer treatments and unpaid student loans she feels she has no choice. She only has three weeks vacation and then is expected back to Cincinnati before Christmas. She never expected to have such strong feelings about this summer home. She has not been back here for almost 20 years. The first scene between Wendy and Caleb Colton I found to be hilarious. Even though the story wasn't totally about Christmas, the story takes place during the three weeks starting with Thanksgiving and leading up to Christmas. I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers through LibraryThing. The comments in this review are totally my own. I would recommend this book by Melody Carlson. I enjoyed it very much.

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wendy inherits a cottage from her grandfather, and she and her 12-year-old son Jackson travel to Maine from Ohio just before Thanksgiving. She and Jackson work on improving the cottage, painting, reflooring, updating the plumbing, and more. Jackson thinks it’s because they are moving there, but really, Wendy is getting the cottage ready to sell. A widow, she knows she has to earn a living salary to take care of her son, and that’s just not possible in a tourist town. At least, not for someone with her job skills. Complications arise in the form of a handsome woodworker, Caleb. Wendy has certainly caught his attention, and the feeling is mutual. What happens to these delightful characters is the basis for a touching Christmas tale. Well written, it has just the right mix of problems and solutions, romance, and Christian values.

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

What a lovely story. It is well-written and engaging. I look forward to Melody Carlson's Christmas books each year and this one did not disappoint. I will share my full review soon.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Christmas by the SeaAuthor: Melody CarlsonPages: 176Year: 2018Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 stars.Melody’s tale brings forth hope after loss, and joy after sorrow. Christmas by the Sea shares about Wendy who has inherited the summer cabin she visited with her grandparents as a little girl. Wendy is filled with stories and memories she has shared with her son Jackson throughout the years. Now she has inherited the cabin and Jackson can’t wait to see the ocean and town his mother told him so much about during the hard years of his Dad’s fatal illness.Jackson wants to stay there, and his mother Wendy would love to as well but there are tons of medical bills to pay and she doesn’t think the small town can provide for their needs. Jackson enjoys working alongside a man named Caleb who is a local woodworker and owns his own store selling his unique pieces.What follows is a very endearing tale that was enjoyable to read. The only other thought I have about the book is I think the author could have written a little more and set the ending up better before just suddenly getting there. I will read more of Melody Carlson’s books as they are fun to curl up and read. I hope readers will enjoy her Christmas by the Sea as much as I did!

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Christmas by the Sea has so many elements I love. It’s a quick read that can be finished in one sitting, it has a fixer-upper element (which I’ve grown to love) and even most importantly, it flows smoothly and gives me the feels.Wendy Harper, a widow and mother, is an intriguing character that I rooted for and sympathized with. I also enjoyed the Maine setting—a place I’ve not visited yet but is on my bucket list.There are only a few cons. Wendy’s distress was a little weighing at times—understandable, but a bit overdone, and I wish Christmas and the spiritual aspect were a little more pronounced. Overall, this is another sweet, quick read by Melody Carlson. I’ve enjoyed all her stories and look forward to reading more.I received a complimentary copy of this book from the LibraryThing Early Reviewers.