This book is two stories. One is Christmas in Gold features Astrid. In this book she's an 80 year old woman. This story focused on WWII in Germany. I'm not a big war story fan. I have read so many, it was such a devastating and brutal time with so many losses. However, Astrid's story was a good one, as she works to help other's change their lives. She reminds me of someone the amazing women who survived the most horrible situations during that war. The impact her life has on others is a strong point of this story. It might need kleenex if you start crying.

Christmas in Blue features Angela , who is deeply depressed. She's suffered a great loss and is barley dealing with it. Her heart is broken, her grief is overwhelming. Even Christians don't always know how to handle loss. She finally gets a precious dog named Blitzen and all kinds of things start changing. Who's this guy that has the town all a stir? Is he going to make her situation better, or worse? Will Angela pull out of her situation and make Christmas happen for the town, even if she can't feel it yet? This first book was pretty good. It showed Angela's situation quite well and you should really read the ending. I found this story to be realistic in many ways, and thankfully not as in need of possible tissues.

Both books are memorable reads, even if difficult ones for me at the moment because of the topics they deal with. This isn't a light fluffy read, but it is a poignant remind of lives and focusing on God at Christmas time.

My copy came from Celebrate Lit via Net Galley. My thoughts and opinions of this book are my own, left of my own free choosing.

Overall, I like both of these stories. But in all honesty, I liked the first one much better. I think it may have something to do with the order to books were presented. After reading Christmas in Gold, I had such high expectations for Christmas in Blue, which truly isn’t fair to the author. And unfortunately because of this the story fell a little bit flat for me.

In Christmas in Gold I loved hearing Astrid’s story. First, it was nice to have an older main character. The stories she shared with Carly were very interesting, and I picture myself sitting in a chair with a cup of tea next to her telling them. I found Carly’s story to be so sad and tragic, but a good example of what many young single moms may be going through today, or even just single women trying to break free of an abusive relationship. It certainly wasn’t a coincidence that Carly and Astrid both ended up at the retirement home. This story was touching, and a great reminder of how to treat others.

Christmas in Blue was still a sweet story, I just didn’t connect with the characters as much. It almost had that predictable “when it rains, it pours” feel to it, and every glitch that came up I could almost see it coming. However, through it all, it displayed the reminder that even when things do not go our way, God has a plan. We can stress about the holidays, or whatever is stressing us in life, but when we do that we tend to miss out on what’s important. I enjoyed the church service that was written in this story, and could picture myself in attendance. This was a great start to the holiday season for me.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC for my Kindle.
What a good "feel good" book for the holidays!
Light and easy to read but will bring your spirits "up" once you read it.

Christmas stories both filled with real life worries and travails, but threaded through with the true spirit of Christmas,where  love, family and kindness. Win through.

I read this book weeks ago but it didn't feel right posting my review until after Thanksgiving. In Colors of Christmas, Olivia Newport writes two stories of ladies who have recently experienced significant loss. Although I have yet to know what it feels like to lose something that means so much to me I believe she captures the feelings of the main characters perfectly. Her plot is so realistic and all the characters had me tear up and cheer on with a few surprising twists throughout. Olivia Newport writes so descriptively that I could feel Christmas cheer and Christmas blues welling up. I would recommend this book to anyone even if it is not Christmas time. For people who need a small push to truly celebrate Christmas this year Colors of Christmas is a great suggestion. 
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

Both stories had a significant influence to the color it centered around.  This really was enjoyable to read.

First story was centered around gold and the elegance this color brought to Christmas.  The story was slow to unfold but picked up speed rather quickly.  But I was disappointed at how cut off the ending seemed.  I would have like more details of the future.

Second story was all about blue.  The meaning was to show how people deal with grief at Christmastime.  It is a hard time for those who have lost loved ones.  I enjoyed this story and it was encouraging to reach out to others that are hurting and to show the love of Christ. 

I received a copy from Barbour Publishing via Netgalley. Thank you Barbour! All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

I enjoyed Colors of Christmas. These two stories are unique reads for the holidays. They both deal with real, although not so cheery themes, such as dealing with loss, sadness, danger, etc. during Christmastime. They certainly aren’t downers though, for they ultimately offer a healing salve to the common maladies of everyday life and the emotions many deal with—especially during the Christmas season. 

Both Christmas in Gold and Christmas in Blue are contemporary reads with unique main characters dealing with sensitive matters. Various themes—growing older, losing independence, grief, a stalker, and other burdens—are dealt with sensitively and leave you feeling uplifted and warm. 

I especially enjoyed Christmas in Gold. Astrid is an unforgettable character who has endured much in her life. Her recollections of war torn Germany are vivid and heartbreaking, and her gold Christmas ornaments hold memories more valuable than commonplace holiday decorations. In Christmas in Blue, I didn’t find Angela as easy to relate to, although her story still kept my interest.

Overall, this book is well worth the read. Each story showcases characters with unique hardships and their transformations. I love Christmas stories, particularly ones that celebrate the true HOPE of Christmas. (I recommend you don’t skip over the Author’s Notes in the beginning of the book—they contain interesting and valuable information.) Kudos to Olivia Newport for these great reads.

Cover: Love
Title: Love
Publisher: Shiloh Run Press 
Pages: 320
First Line (Christmas in Gold): They rode in silence, the murmur of Alex’s expensive late-model white SUV lulling Astrid into drowsiness.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

There were a lot of things I wasn't expecting from this book. It was recommended to me to read this book so I actually didn't look at it much ahead of time. I didn't realize it was two stories in one but they were both good and they were both not what I was expecting. I don't usually like to read books with a Christmas setting at anytime other than Christmas. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed reading these earlier than the "proper" time this year. I just kind of assumed and expected this would be a book of romance and neither story was but offered perspectives I don't usually look at life from, especially the first story.

Olivia writes stories that are wonderful.  Can’t wait to read more from this talented author.

great book just a very odd ending to both stories. I felt like I was left hanging at the end.

Colors Of Christmas has two contemporary clean Christian stories by author Olivia Newport.

STORY-LINES COLORS OF CHRISTMAS:  CHRISTMAS IN GOLD AND CHRISTMAS IN BLUE BY OLIVIA NEWPORT:

In Colors of Christmas first story, Christmas In Gold, we find Astrid.  At eighty, she has lived a full and sometimes tragic life.  She survived the Nazi's, a brutal life in war-torn Germany, the loss of two husbands, and raised two children alone.  Now she finds herself in an assisted living facility;  her home sold, recovering from a broken leg, and her precious gold ornaments missing.  Those ornaments had survived a long history of war, property, and moves; until this last move to the facility.  Astrid also finds her physical therapist, Carly, bordering on desperation, in need of a friend and hope.  What better time for hope than Christmas;   for God gave the world the greatest hope of all at Christmas time in our Lord and Savior.

In Christmas Blue, we find Angela in need of Christmas spirit.  Deeply depressed and still mourning the death of her best friend and Christmas enthusiast, Carol, Angela finds herself in charge of the town's Christmas To Remember event.  This is the last thing she wants to do.  With no way to get out of the job, she forges on without enthusiasm.  How can she possibly do the job, Carol was so perfect at performing each year.  Carol always had surprises galore for the crowd and worked all year preparing.  Angela had only eight days to get into the Christmas spirit and make this a Christmas honor Carol.  When the mysterious Gabe arrives in town, he stirs things up. Will Angela finally recover from her depression and create a Christmas to remember?

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:

Olivia Newport created two stories filled with emotion and faith.  In Christmas In Gold Newport created a strong lead character in Astrid;  a woman who had experienced the worse man can hand out and through her faith in God, survived.  This is not a feel good, Christmas is light and airy, story.  This story's filled with the emotion of survival under the conditions of war and its aftermath and a determined stalker.  Astrid's strong enough to still believe in God's goodness after all life threw at her.  I needed a Kleenex many times reading this pungent story.

Using flashbacks by Astrid, Newport gave us a look at war-torn Germany.  I am ashamed to say I never wondered how the German people lived during and after the war.  Newport vividly described the devastation, property, and loss they endured. Through Newport's descriptive writing I could see each scene in my mind's eye and feel the despair.  I could feel Astrid's fear, faith in God, her will to survive, and hope for the future.  Through all she endured, she never lost her faith in God's grace and goodness.

Carly's story could appear on the front pages of any newspaper;  stalking and obsession are prevalent today.  Newport matured Carly throughout this story.  Befriended by Astrid, Carly slowly stood up for herself and found all's not lost.  Astrid through her life's testimony and her belief in God's grace and goodness gave Carly hope.  One woman near the end of her life journey and one just beginning gave this story stark realism.  The ending of this story will bring tears to your eyes.

In Christmas Blue, you will need to get out the Kleenex again.  Newport created characters which will tear out your heart with their sadness, depression, and lack of life.  I wanted to grab Angela and tell her how sorry I was for her loss. I also wanted to tell her; Carol would be ashamed of how she allowed herself to fall apart.  Newport skillfully showed how depression affects our lives.

As Newport had the committee bulldoze Angela into taking Carol's job, I could feel her anger and frustration at each member.  I could feel her thoughts of unworthiness and ineptness in planning this event.   Angela's a religious person, but she allowed the death of Carol to undermined her life; mentally and physically.  However, I proudly watched as she took the bull by the horns and forged on; even though it was the last thing, she wanted to do.

Adding in the dog, Blitzen, added a sweet element to the story.  I love stories with animals as they often give the companionship we can only find in an animal.  Angela sequenced her life into a small box with Blitzen as her only source of companionship.  As Angela stated:

    "...before I had you, I just talked to whatever appliance was beeping at me.  I guess you're quite the upgrade."

Newport added in the drama of things going wrong; in a huge way.  Would nothing come together as it should?  Then the mystery of Gabe added more drama as he appears and disappears around town.  The whole town's talking about this young man.  Is he the reason for all the disasters?  God has ways of taking control; his specialty's healing broken hearts, even the hurts unseen and unknown.  Blue Christmas will warm your heart and make your dream of Christmas and all the enjoy it entails;  most importantly, remembering the real reason for the season, the birth of our Lord.

In concluding my review of Colors Of Christmas, I found each story had well-developed characters, intriguing story-lines, and pacing in line with the length of the book.  Newport's story-lines kept me glued to my E-Reader.  Her scenes transitioned smoothly with writing which flowed well;  making this an easy book to read.  This book contained vivid descriptions and realism.  Her characters and their life situations are believable and realistic;  I felt I came to know them intimately;  I became invested in their lives as I journeyed through this book.

What a joy this book was to read.  As I closed my E-Reader, I had tears in eyes and joy in my heart for " God's gift of his Son";  born in a lowly stable. Sent to redeem, and save the world.  A solid, beautiful two-book collection, I would not hesitate to buy this book for myself or a friend.
COLORS OF CHRISTMAS RECOMMENDATION:  STARS 4

FINALLY, PLEASE NOTE:

Additionally, I received this book from NetGalley and chose to review the book with honest Christian book reviews voluntarily.  Lastly, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion.  Consequently, all book reviews online and on my blog, are my opinions.  Also, the ARC did not affect my voluntary Christian book review.

*The quote in bold above taken from the text in Blue Christmas.

These two novellas were light reads that had elements I could relate to. The first involved a woman who had just entered an assisted living facility and some of her experiences were just like my parents' in their assisted living home. The second story involved a choir director and as a choir member, I chuckled at the description of a choir with members of varying abilities. If you're looking for some pleasant stories to read around the holidays, these should fit the bill.

Thoughts:

Through COLORS OF CHRISTMAS, Olivia Newport moves us out of one life and into another during difficult Christmas seasons. We’ll find things in disarray and situations rife with pain.

How can the beauty of this Christmas be still appreciated when nothing is as the season before?

Inside Christmas in Gold, Astrid’s life changes are due to advanced age. She hadn’t wanted to move, but her fall is the reason her children insist. At this tender life stage, it’s hard to be under the rule of the children you raised when you still have the ability to do as you please. Well, that is only until you injure yourself and no longer have that ability, and thus the move to Sycamore Hills Community Living is upon her.

However, they both were right, she did need to relocate, or at least her body did. Her mind wants independence, and maybe that is still possible. It is just hard to give up all that you built, and it is something that she’s had to do before. Those fearsome memories return in vivid color after all these years.

Having something in common tends to bring people together. Will friendships grow even in the darkest of times?

In Christmas in Blue, we meet Angela who is facing the first Christmas after her close friend’s death.

The funny thing about bemoaning this holiday is that Carole was all Christmas and almost all the time, thus making this first even more painful. If she allowed it, every song, movie, and decoration would reduce Angela to tears. No, this year, she is going to this holiday in quiet. Unfortunately, no one told the committee this decision. Angela would not think she even had to. Yes, she assisted Carole on the town’s celebrations, but everyone knew it was Carole’s baby. Angela was just a helper and friend.

However, to honor Carole, the committee decided to give Angela the celebration duties so that she could run it the same way her friend would. Without the benefit of time to change things, this agenda is set almost in secret, and Angela needs help.

When does one’s assistance turn into a disaster? When could a mystery turn to merriment? Is sabotage underfoot or is a new tradition being born?

***This opinion is my own.***

Preview:

COLORS OF CHRISTMAS by Olivia Newport begins inside the stark realities of life changes where hope could not stay buried but lives on to become the beacon of light for others to follow.

Two novellas showcase a death of life as it previously exists only to have it blossom into the rays of hope inside a new Christmas season.

Two contemporary shorter stories written by a prolific author who’s outdone herself in my opinion! 

Christmas doesn’t turn out to be what either Astrid, Carly, or Angela envisioned it to be, yet it turns out to be better than they imagined! Things seem to get worse before they get better, but the hope of Christmas shines through in both stories. What I loved about this is it reminds me that Christmas isn’t about the glittery tinsel, or the evergreen wreaths festively displayed, or the twinkle lights soft glow. It’s not about the traditions we keep or the food we eat or even the brightly colored packages under our trees. But rather, the hope that Christ brought through His birth. The hope that never wavers no matter the situation, no matter if Christmas isn’t the joyous season to every person, no matter if things turn out way different then we wanted. It can be celebrated because one baby came to the world to seek and save that which was lost! That’s the hope-filled theme that runs throughout each story. It challenges you to look at it from new eyes and appreciate it from a fresh perspective. It could well change the way you look at life even! Well-written, characters so real you connect with them, emotionally charged and satisfying in the end. One to read over and over again, just to see what other lessons we can learn or be reminded of! 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and was under no obligation to post a review.*

This is my first Christmas read for the year and I enjoyed it.  :)   Two feel-good, heart warming novellas that focus on hope and healing during the most wonderful time of the year!

I enjoyed the first story more than the second one.   The elderly lady in this story is so resilient and has gone through so much in her life.  Your heart hurts for her situation but you are also encouraged because of her attitude and the way she is determined to make the best of it.  The additional thread of a young single mother with a touch of danger in her life makes the story even more interesting.  I was a little disappointed in the ending though and didn't feel like there was full closure on a few things.

The second story I found harder to get into but the ending is absolutely beautiful!  Poor Angela is still dealing with the grief of losing her best friend who loved Christmas.   When the town's committee dumps the planning of the annual Christmas celebration in her lap, nothing goes right for her.  As she deals with her grief and depression, the arrival of Gabe seems to bring about the start of Christmas miracles.  In the end, the town is awed by a Christmas service like none they have ever seen.   I loved the description of this service.

*Thanks to CelebrateLit for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid nor required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*

Colors of Christmas by Olivia Newport is comprised of two inspirational Christmas novellas. “Christmas in Blue” is about a woman named Angela who is chosen to organize the Christmas events in her town, which she does not feel prepared for and which quickly goes downhill. But a surprising visitor might just save the day … if Angela can allow herself to trust him. “Christmas in Gold” features an elderly woman named Astrid who just moved into an assisted living facility. She meets a young woman with many troubles and determines to help her.

I enjoyed Colors of Christmas. I do not usually choose inspirational or Christmas books to read, but this one was a pleasing surprise. Both stories were sweet. They featured realistic characters who had to grow in order to move forward in their lives. The two main characters were “mature” Christian women who had to learn just as much as the other characters in the stories. Christmas was a central theme to both stories, but they would be inspirational no matter what time of year they were set during.

The setting of “Christmas in Blue” was a small town that goes all out for Christmas events. It was especially relatable to me, coming from a small town. And it is true in that story that, when surrounded by so much Christmas stress, it is difficult to appreciate Christmas itself.

“Christmas in Gold” was a lot different. The main character loved Christmas and, while she was sad she would not be spending time with her children that year, was determined to be a great friend and mentor to the young woman in her life. She loved Christmas, her young friend, and her family. She did not have so much growth to do, but she still had obstacles to overcome. Also, there was a little bit of danger in this story, and it surprised me. But it was a welcome surprise that added a little depth to the story.

I enjoyed Colors of Christmas and recommend it to those who enjoy sweet Christmas stories. Give it a few more weeks, and the time of year will be perfect!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Colors of Christmas is two contemporary stories: Christmas in Blue and Christmas in Gold. Both have an inspirational undertone to help inspire us with hope and faith. I enjoyed them.

Colors of Christmas is sweet and heartwarming and everything lovely about Christmas.

“Christmas in Gold” is a compelling story about an elderly woman who has survived the unthinkable – more than once – and is now adjusting to life (and Christmas) in an assisted living home. But it’s not a ‘lonely old lady story that will make you feel depressed’; instead it’s an emotional story about one woman who chooses to reach out to another with her story of survival and love and loss. I really loved this story – it tugs at the heart and makes your heart feel all warm and Christmasy.

“Christmas in Blue” would make a great Hallmark Christmas movie. A frazzled & grieving woman suddenly in charge of the town’s Christmas celebration, with not a lot of time to spare and of course nothing goes as planned. A colorful cast of characters peppers the story, and a tender message of faith and restoration and resting in God wraps around the plot like a cozy blanket. While it doesn’t pack quite the same emotional punch as “Christmas in Gold”, if read as its own unique and separate novella it is just as sweet and heartwarming.

Bottom Line: If you’re tired of Hallmark Christmas movie reruns (I know… I just crossed a line.) and you’re looking for a sweet, cozy Christmas read instead, Colors of Christmas is the book for you! Two heartwarming stories with themes of faith, friendship, family and holiday spirit, as well as compelling characters and Olivia Newport’s gentle writing voice, make this a must-read for the Christmas season every year.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Colors of Christmas by Olivia Newport contains two inspirational Christmas stories.  Christmas in Gold stars Astrid who recently suffered a fall in her home causes her to break her ankle.  It was all her children needed to force her move into Sycamore Hills Community Living.  Carly is Astrid’s physical therapist at Sycamore Hills.  She has been having a challenging time since Truman started harassing her.  As time passes, Astrid tells Carly the story of her life in Germany during the war and what she experienced after immigrating to America.  Astrid’s strong character and perseverance give Carly hope and strength.   Is there a chance for a happily ever after in Carly’s future?  Will Astrid adjust to her new living arrangement?

Christmas in Blue is the second story starring piano teacher, Angela Carter.  Angela lives in Spruce Valley and she is lacking the Christmas spirit this year.  Her best friend, Carole passed away earlier in the year and it has left Angela feeling very blue.  Angela is late to A Christmas to Remember committee meeting and finds herself in charge of the whole events with only eight days to go.  A Christmas to Remember was Carole’s baby and the last thing Angela wants to do is take it over.  She soon discovers that the event seems to be doomed from the start with one catastrophe after another.  There is a stranger in town that stands out to the locals and they blame him for problems plaguing their celebration.  Angela, though, is happy to see Gabe despite what brought him to town.  Gabe provides Angela with hope and inspiration.  Will Angela be able to pull of A Christmas to Remember?  Why is Gabe in Spruce Valley?  

Colors of Christmas is well-written and easy to read.  I liked the characters, setting, and the Christian elements/lessons.  Astrid was a woman who had endured much hardship, but she had such a strong faith in God.  It was inspiring and heartening.  Christmas in Blue deals with depression which is common for many people during the Christmas season.  I liked the uplifting ending.  Some of the Christian messages or themes were faith, trust in God, hope, acceptance, courage, and perseverance.  I give Colors of Christmas 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it).  My favorite story was Christmas in Gold.  It had more depth and such a heartwarming conclusion.  Colors of Christmas contains two lovely, inspirational stories.  They show that Christmas is not about presents, but about helping people and honoring the one person who sacrificed everything for His believers.

I loved Olivia Newport’s Colors of Christmas so much! This poignant two-novella collection is entertaining, touching, and spoke to my heart. Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, it’s a story of hope, peace, and inner joy during the Christmas season when loss is magnified. In a season where many stories have a light, romantic flavor, I would use the term “real” to describe Colors of Christmas. Olivia Newport is an excellent writer of relationship drama, my favorite genre, and I enjoyed the stories of Astrid and Angela equally.

Each story had a personal connection for me as well. Astrid’s German heritage played an important part in Christmas in Gold, and getting to know a lot about Germany during my daughter’s eight years of campus ministry there made Astrid’s experience special. In Christmas in Blue, Angela is a piano teacher, church organist, and choir director – making me want to say, “been there, done that”! So both of these stories resonated in a special way.

Loss is something that touches all of us sooner or later, whether it be the loss of someone close (Angela) or loss of personal independence (Astrid). A fall results in Astrid moving into an assisted living facility, and loss of a best friend leaves Angela wanting little to do with the town’s Christmas program … “The last thing she wanted to do in her grief was try to match what Carole had done in her joy.” But don’t think for a moment that Colors of Christmas is a depressing book, as it’s anything but that.  For me, its strength is gently encouraging us to look outward (and upward) instead of inward. 

I’m always amazed at how God works by bringing the people we need into our lives at just the right moment, and this is reflected beautifully in these stories. I especially enjoyed Astrid’s connection with Carly and son Tyler, and that of Angela with her piano student, Brian. 

The overall theme of Colors of Christmas is best reflected in Martin’s words reminding us that it’s all about remembering to go to Bethlehem … “not to dwell on what we have lost but on what God has given.”

If you’re trying to decide what Christmas-themed books to try this season, I encourage you to pick up Colors of Christmas. Highly recommended.