The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson

 

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 do: 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.

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About The Author

 Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books (with sales around 6.5 million) for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her novels range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including Romantic Time's Career Achievement Award, the Rita and the Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog. To find out more about Melody Carlson, visit her website at http://www.melodycarlson.com/

 

My Review

 I loved this story, from beginning to in I was drawn in. A novella, and can even be read in one sitting.

Madison has come home, her sister Addie has been taking care of everything, but you get the feeling rather quickly see doesn't have her heart on the farm.

I loved Madison trying to replant all of those trees, and what happens, who comes to her aid.

This is a story of family relationships, lost relationships, and new family. Also throw in a bit of sweet romance and one sister calling "dibs". Really?

When this read ended, I really wanted more, I got so involved in McDowell and Thompson families!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.