A Joyful Christmas

6 Historical Stories

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Pub Date 01 Sep 2020 | Archive Date 30 Oct 2020

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Description

A Christmas Collection to Warm the Heart
Grab a warm cup of tea and watch as romance is kindled and joy is restored to broken lives during six bygone era Christmas celebrations.
 
A Christmas Castle by Cynthia Hickey
Married by proxy in Missouri, Annie Morgan sets off for Tombstone, Arizona, to join her new husband as a cattle rancher. But too soon she finds herself a widow with an unexpected daughter and butting heads with her handsome neighbor.
 
A Star in the Night by Liz Johnson
Wounded within Confederate territory, Union officer Jedediah Harrington finds refuge at the tiny cabin of Cora Sinclair and her grandfather. Still haunted by what she saw as a battlefield hospital volunteer, Cora finds that only Jed can understand. But, though she longs to give him her heart, the risks to both of them are too great.
 
An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough
When Jackson Lancaster’s brother and wife die, he takes his three-year-old niece home. But a meddling busy-body makes the judge give her custody “because an unmarried man shouldn’t raise a little girl.” Now Jackson has until Christmas to find a bride or lose his niece forever. Larkin Doyle is grateful her employer took in the orphan and believes Jackson abandoned his niece. When her heart says otherwise, will romance blossom? 
 
Under His Wings by Liz Tolsma
Adie O’Connell, orphaned and left alone in a dangerous Wisconsin logging camp, seeks the stability she once knew when both her parents lived. Despite the compassion and friendship offered by Noah “Preacher Man” Mitchell, she refuses to consider marriage to a man always drifting from one job to another for God.
 
Shelter in the Storm by Carrie Turansky
The daughter of a wealthy Tennessee doctor, Rachel Thornton begins nursing James Galloway, a wounded artist-war correspondent. As James recovers, their hearts draw closer together. Having already lost one sweetheart to the war, Rachel is hesitant to reveal her feelings for James, who insists on returning to the front lines. Would she be safer in the arms of another man?
 
Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch
Beth Sorensen has been put in charge of the Christmas pageant at the little log church, and this year she wants something different. But she didn’t count on a Minnesota blizzard paralyzing the whole town. Can the blacksmith teach this preacher’s daughter about what it means to serve one another in love through the storm?
 
A Christmas Collection to Warm the Heart
Grab a warm cup of tea and watch as romance is kindled and joy is restored to broken lives during six bygone era Christmas celebrations.
 
A Christmas Castle ...

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ISBN 9781643526348
PRICE $9.99 (USD)
PAGES 448

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Average rating from 89 members


Featured Reviews

Six engaging, well-written novellas set during the Christmas season in Civil War era America. Honestly, there’s not a dud in the bunch. Novellas can often be tricky, but these were so well-paced that I became invested in each story. Well done.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

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I often struggle to enjoy novellas. The characters seem to get over their struggles so quickly that it's almost unbelievable. I cannot imagine how difficult it is to condense a story down to novella length.
I was impressed by this group of authors and how they made me forget my misgivings. Each story drew me in and made me smile. I could relate to something in each of the historical stories and it helped the experience
If you love Christmas stories or historical Christian romance, I believe you will love this collection. make sure you preorder it soon!

I was able to read an ARC on Netgalley but freely give my honest review.

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A Joyful Christmas is a delightful and heartwarming collection of novellas that will leave each and every reader who chooses to pick it up with a big smile on their face. Each novella features a different historical setting, and focuses around the importance of faith and the true meaning for the Christmas season. While I did think a couple of the novellas stood out over the rest, I was honestly pleasantly surprised by this entire collection, and I love the fact that I've discovered some new to me authors in the process.

With how crazy everything has been lately, I really enjoyed reading this sweet collection that reminds us all of how God is always faithful, and included heartwarming and simple holiday romances that gave me all the warm fuzzies.

I recommend fixing yourself a cup of hot chocolate or apple cider, grabbing some yummy Christmas cookies, and settling in to read this beautiful historical novella collection that will have you instantly in the Christmas spirit.

Final Rating: 4/5.

Thanks so much to Barbour for allowing me to advance read this!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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A Joyful Christmas is a wonderful collection published by Barbour Publishing.

These historical stories cover time periods between the 1860's through the 1880's and feature authors Erica Vetsch, Carrie Turansky, Liz Tolsma, Vicki McDonough, Liz Johnson and Cynthia Hickey. Three of the authors I had read before, but the other three were new to me. I always enjoy reading and discovering new authors and this collection provided the perfect opportunity.

I love Christmas stories and will read them any time of the year. We need more of the love, joy and giving associated with this special time of the year. These charming stories brought all of that to light and will surely warm a reader's heart. I enjoyed each one!

I appreciate Barbour, through Netgalley, making a copy of A Joyful Christmas available for review.

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These authors are all new to me and I am now a fan. I can't tell you how each story will touch you. Each one in this collection is unique and heartwarming. I shed some tears and more than a few giggles. A Christmas celebration that takes you through to another time. I loved every one of them and plan to continue to follow these authors.

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"A Joyful Christmas"
Oh, boy, 6 really Good , Clean, Sweet, romance stories of people with Faith in the late 1800's. Sometimes faith is strong, sometimes weak, and sometimes mis-placed. Sometimes one must learn to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
Oh, I hope my review does not turn you away, these are not preachy stories. Just good clean wholesome stories that have at least one character whose faith is getting them through their life. This book is a worthy read. Happy Reading !

note: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher with the request I would post my honest review.

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I really enjoyed this book. It was great to have 6 stories in one bind up. All the stories are set during the War of Independence and for me it was very interesting to gain some knowledge of that era in the USA history.
The characters and situations were well written and the settings were very believable. You could feel the emotions, struggles and situations the characters found themselves in. I am not going to go into detail of each story as I think it is better to read them without knowing much about them, as I don’t want to give plots away. I would recommend this book.
Reading these stories has made me want to read more novels set in this historical period.

I would like to thank Netgalley, Barbour Publishing Inc and the authors for sending me this book to review.

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A Christmas Castle by Cynthia Hickey
A sweet, inspirational novella! I love a strong heroine, and Annie definitely fit that. 3.5/5 stars

A Star in the Night by Liz Johnson
A very sweetly romantic story! As always with novellas, I wish there was a bit more time for the story to develop, but this novella is still satisfying and inspirational. With Cora, the reader see an interesting, important, and relevant side of war and trauma to see the effects of such situations on nurses. Fans of Tamera Alexander’s Carnton novels will appreciate this story. 4/5 stars

An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough
A sweet story, but it definitely felt rushed in terms of romance. I have a love-hate relationship with novellas, and this was one story I really wanted to continue, since it needed more time to develop. 3/5 stars

Under His Wings by Liz Tolsma
I loved this novella! I wish it were longer, but readers will be inspired and fulfilled by Adie and Noah’s story. 4.5/5 stars

Shelter in the Storm by Carrie Turansky
A sweet, inspirational story perfect for fans of Tamera Alexander’s Carnton novels! 4.5/5 stars

Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch
A lovely conclusion to this inspirational novella collection! I love Erica Vetsch’s stories, and I my only complaint is that this story isn’t longer. 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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A Christmas Castle by Cynthia Hickey - Drake and Annie are thrown together under unusual circumstances, but it is beautiful to watch their relationship develop as they serve each other. This was a beautiful story.

A Star in the Night by Liz Johnson - Cora and Jed also met under less than ideal circumstances, but I enjoyed reading about their relationship as it grew. They were so sweet as they worked to serve each other and their love grew.

An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough - Jackson is such a wonderful man and I was so mad at how things turned out for him in the beginning. Mrs. O'Keefe is a terrible person. Luckily love comes out of the situation. Larkin is a wonderful Irish lass and you couldn't help loving her and Rosie. I'm glad they all got their HEA.

Under His Wings by Liz Tolsma - Noah and Adie are such sweet people in a really rough situation. This story reminded me a little of the gift of the magi. They were both willing to give up their dream for each other.

Shelter in the Storm by Carrie Turansky - Rachel and James are both sweet people. I enjoyed reading about their friendship budding through his recovery and finally becoming more. I can't imagine how hard it was for Rachel to see him return to the war. I'm glad they got their HEA.

Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch - Beth is a very determined woman even though her priorities may be a little misplaced. However, I relate to her when it comes to delegating. I'm terrible at it. However, I'm learning that her grandpa is right and easier is not always better. I really felt for her though when things went south and imagine I would have said the same things. Lucky for her Todd was there and what a good guy he is. I liked him and how he tried so hard to show his love. He is just the man she needs.

I received this book from the publisher Barbour Publishing through Netgalley. This is my honest review of this book.

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An enjoyable and engrossing anthology of six novels set between 1860 and 1880.
All of them are well written and entertaining, I liked the well thought characters, the Christmas spirit and the vivid historical background.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

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A wonderfully warm, joyful collection of Christmas novellas. All six novellas move along at a quick pace, but still manage to offer a satisfying story. I did enjoy some more than others, but none were a disappointment. I loved the time period and the simplicity of Christmas celebrations. Each novella offers a sweet, clean romance, in addition to a message of hope and love. I thoroughly enjoyed this compilation and highly recommend it to all lovers of sweet, tender, romantic Christmas tales.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

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This book is a collection of sweet, clean romance stories by several different historical fiction authors. Each story depicts life in challenging times during the 1800's. It is excellent for quick reads during the always busy holiday season. Each story has a strong heroine and loveable man, both with strong faith in God, that she helps, partners with or tolerates. One that I particularly enjoyed tells of a female lead who knows in her heart that she must marry a certain man because of his career. The humor in the story is truly delightful.
Each story is set with Christmas day in the time period but can be read any time of year.

Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of the book.

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This book is a wonderful Christmas historical read. Cozy up with a hot beverage and a warm fire. The stories will take you back to lion the 19th century. All take place at Christmas. These are short sweet and clean stories.

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A wonderful collection of Christian Christmas stories written by different authors. Each story is set in the 1800s and is very well written with lovable characters and heartwarming tales of love and devotion. This book would make a great addition to your Christmas story collection!
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing, Inc. for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

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Today I'm featuring another Christmas story. Yes, it's that time of year already! At least where books are concerned.

All the stories take place in the United States. Two take place during the Civil War, and several take place in the Midwest after the war. While each one touches on Christmas and the Christmas story in at least a small way, only one had Christmas as the major theme rather than a setting. Most of the stories did have a strong faith message.

My favorite here was Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch. It was much more light-hearted than The Lost Lieutenant, which is the only other one of hers that I have read. This sweet story had a powerful message as Beth had to learn that the church is indeed a body and no member is more important than another. I loved Todd, the blacksmith, and the way he relentlessly pursued her to woo her and yet was not afraid to speak the truth to her to show her the error of her thinking.

As with many such collections, my ratings for the various stories differ, ranging from 3 1/2 stars to 4 1/2 stars. If you are intrigued by the sound of any of the stories in the collection, I encourage you to grab a copy - if a story isn't to your taste, there are many more to choose from.

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I’ve read a few of the novellas in this collection so far. They’re really sweet stories and I recommend this collection. Sometimes I need a short story in between books, or just want to read novellas due to time. This one is a sweet collection with Christmas themes. Definitely one to enjoy!

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A set of historical novellas that each features a lady who ends up meeting a swoon worthy hero who was not in her view as a potential husband. They were all quick reads but felt complete with well written main characters and an interesting plot. Each story found its completion at Christmas time. Nice introduction to the Christmas season a wee bit early.

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The perfect pre Christmas read. Six heartwarming stories, clean, wholesome and full of festive spirit x

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A Joyful Christmas is a sweet, fun collection. I liked every story, with An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough being my favorite. I enjoyed the way the story progressed and the wonderful bond between Jackson and his niece. Any reader who loves Christmas romance tales should read A Joyful Christmas.

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These six historical romance stories are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. They are faith based and very inspirational. I especially liked Under His Wings.
Many thanks to Barbour Publishing and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

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A Joyful Christmas is a very nice collection of six Christmas stories based in the late 1800’s, written by six different authors. Each of them are a good length to read in an evening. The stories are all well written with good messages. The characters in the stories are strong, caring people. The theme of trust and faith run through the stories as well. They are good clean romance stories, often focusing on family and helping others. The stories are good stories to help prepare the heart for the upcoming Christmas season.

I enjoyed reading these novellas, despite having read three of them several years ago. I received a copy of this e-book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

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A Joyful Christmas is a compilation of six short Christmas stories by various Christian authors set in the 1800’s. Each story is unique and an excellent read on its own. Together they make a wonderful collection.
I loved reading these and even though it is early to think of Christmas they bring the joy of Christmas to today. I think this would make a great gift for someone special who enjoys reading Christian inspirational and romance fiction. I give this book 5 of 5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

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A joyful Christmas
This novella collection has six stories, which is more than most. The stories are all historical romantic fiction and all take place in the late 1800s and a couple during the Civil War.
I liked the uniqueness of these stories. They all were really different. There’s was a underground dugout house, a logging camp, a stagecoach driver and an artist war correspondent.
It is a very nice collection for the Christmas season.
Thank you to NatGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

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A Joyful Christmas is a collection of six historical romances. The stories are set all over the United States, all in the run up to Christmas. Readers travel from a logging camp in Wisconsin, to war torn Tennessee, snow ravaged Minnesota and even a ranch in Arizona. Expect to be transported with each new tale.

Each offering is written by a veteran author, and their experience shows. The stories mix desperate circumstances and the hope found only in Christ as weapons to tug on our heartstrings. The mixture is highly effective. I repeatedly found myself wondering how the lead characters would solve their problems. Then in every situation, resolution came, happily just in time to celebrate the season of joy.

For me, novellas are tricky to deliver well. Often the story is rushed to a force conclusion, but in this collection, happily, the authors had their pacing right and I didn’t feel shortchanged in any way. Christmas stories aren’t for everyone, especially ones so focused on the season. However, if you are on the lookout for something to read that’ll sweep you up in a snow flurry, and drop you off by a crackling fire, sipping hot cocoa and humming carols, this is for you.

I applaud both the variety and imagination in A Joyful Christmas, and recommend the collection if you’re ready to get festive-focused.

To check out another Christmas read here…

To buy or read an excerpt, click here…

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This is a lovely, inspirational collection of novellas all set around Christmas. I’ve read most of the authors before but enjoyed the new to me authors novellas too.

Some of the stories are resolved somewhat abruptly but all had a feel good message of faith along with some wonderful characters.

Definitely worth reading, especially if you like the Christmas season!

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I am generally not fond of novellas but I love Christmas stories and this didn't disappoint. Each of the six stories is full of heart steeped in Christmas spirit. It was filled with love and hope. I absolutely enjoyed it. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Barbour Publishing, Inc., for providing me with an ARC of this book.

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( received complimentary e-book copy in exchange for review )

Each year, I always look forward to the first Christmas themed book of the season. The novellas in this collection were all warmly written and very enjoyable. Will be revisiting with this book when I have some quiet time during the upcoming holiday season. Would make a very thoughtful stocking stuffer or gift.

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This collection contains six Christmas stories set in five different states between the years of 1860 and 1875. Each story was very enjoyable with its own set of problems that needed to be resolved so that a Merry Christmas could occur. If you are in the mood for a warm Christmas story, you’ve hit a jackpot with A Joyful Christmas.

I received an ARC ebook from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley.

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Six joyful Christmas novellas make up this fun, historical Christmas book.

Each novella is set in the Civil War era, emphasizing challenges of the time and how each primary character learned to work with their faith and love.

I enjoyed this sweet, clean romance book and made for a great addition to holiday reading.
I highly recommend this book.

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

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Nice collection of short holiday stories to warm your heart as you settle in with a hot cup of tea. This is a great book for those that don’t want to commit to a long read as you finish most stories in one cozy setting. Enjoy! I sure did.

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A lovely collection of inspirational Christmas stories just in time for the season!
As always, Barbour Publishing brings talented authors together to create a delightful collection of stories that will leave readers with a smile on their faces. Feel-good holiday stories with just enough tension and more than enough romance to satisfy an appetite for light, Christmas reads.
Each author brings her own voice and own spin to Christmas tales of faith, hardship and Christmas joy from the 1800s. Some stories have been published before and others are brand new.
You’ll be in for a treat if you pick up this collection.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

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6 beautiful historical heartwarming stories. They will make you smile and give you the holiday spirit. I highly recommend this one. I really enjoyed this one even though I don't usually enjoy short stories. This one goes on the home library Christmas shelf.

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This book is a gem! You will love each and every story in it and will find yourself excited to see how they turn out. Great to read all year - even if it isn’t the Christmas season!

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Fun collection of Christmas short stories! Wonderful authors coming together to give you five stories in place of one!!

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

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I love a good Christmas story and this book delivers!! A time so magical and wonderful that this book will surely melt your heart!!

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If you are looking for short, sweet, Christmas themed historical fiction - this Novella Collection is for you!
If you like historical fiction period, I think you will truly enjoy it.
It's one of those books perfect to curl up by the fire with a hot cup of tea and read.

This was my first time reading work by any of these authors and I was not disappointed

Each tale was special and unique in its own way.
Definitely a collection worth checking out!

***Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the digital ARC of this book. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***

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A great collection of Christmas romance by an amazing group of authors. These cozy novellas are sure to make you swoon! Definitely a must.

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A Joyful Christmas is a collection of six historical novellas. These novellas include:
A Christmas Castle by Cynthia Hickey
A Star in the Night by Liz Johnson
An Irish Bride for Christmas by Vickie McDonough
Under His Wings by Liz Tolsma
Shelter in the Storm by Carrie Turansky
Christmas Service by Erica Vetsch
I enjoyed every one of these stories. If I had to choose a favorite, it would have to be Vickie McDonough’s An Irish Bride for Christmas. I am giving the whole collection four and a half stars.

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This is a collection of enjoyable stories written by talented authors. These stories are shorter in length, but the authors did a great job of making each story seem complete. I liked all of the couples in these stories, and there was enough variety in the storylines that I didn’t feel as if the stories were repeating themselves as I was reading. If you enjoy Christian historical fiction, you’ll enjoy these stories with Christmas as the background for each story.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

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One of the things I enjoy doing as the end of the year approaches is curling up with a good Christmas-themed book. Somehow, doing this gets me prepped for the sights, activities, and sounds of the season. If this is something you also enjoy doing, then this book is an excellent choice to jumpstart your holidays.
The six novellas in this book have been crafted by authors who are great at providing readers with laughter, tears, and heartfelt moments that will be remembered long after the stories have ended.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher and Net Galley but the thoughts expressed are my own.

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A Joyful Christmas is a collection of six historical Christmas novellas written by Cynthia Hickey, Liz Johnson, Vickie McDonough, Liz Tolsma, Carrie Turansky, and Erica Vetsch.

The novellas, A Christmas Castle, A Star in the Night, An Irish Bride for Christmas, Under His Wings, Shelter in the Storm, and Christmas Service, are an unconnected collection that span several years and locations. It’s difficult to pick a favorite because each has a part that will tug on your heart. From cattlemen and lumbermen aiming to protect to wounded men torn between love and duty. All of them meet strong women whose care breaks down defenses, giving both a chance to experience joy once again.

If you’re a fan of an enjoyable Historical romance (or six!) set around Christmas, then definitely grab a copy of A Joyful Christmas.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

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Hardships to romance. Touching historical stories that will warm your holiday season. Each so different but with such wonderful endings.
These can touch you throughout the year. Wonderful characters with wonderful stories!

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A Joyful Christmas is a collection of six historical Christmas novellas. Each story is heartwarming and heartfelt. The characters are enjoyable and loveable. Its a page turner and well written. I loved each storyline.
I read and and reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book All thoughts and opinions are of my own.
Thank you NetGalley and Barbour Publishing Inc for letting me read this book.

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This was such a delightful collection of Christmas stories set in 1800s America. I so enjoyed each story, if I had to choose a favourite, it would be Erica Vetsch’s Christmas Service. A few of the other stories weren’t terribly Christmassy and only briefly mentioned the holiday season, but Christmas Service was full-on Christmas from beginning to end. Each of these tasteful Christian romances made the heart swell with longing and had wonderful themes of faith, family and forgiveness.

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