One of my favorite authors! Her new Christmas book. I listened to the WHOLE thing yesterday! It was so good, so sweet! Another Home run story by Karen!!!!! I actually can't wait to see the movie adaptation and have a feeling it might become one of my favorite Christmas stories/movies 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 I laughed, loved and cried and pounded my steering wheel and gasped and tried not to scream while listening at the library 🤣🤦

For Karen Kingsbury lovers it's a must read! For any others it's a sweet Christian kisses only romance featuring a widower and widow, a girl who lost her dad, military, a family heirloom, and so much growth and love and longing and searching and ugh I can't spoil it! You'll just have to read it yourself ❤️

The narrator did a great job! It was so easy listening to her. ❤️

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10/5 stars

This book made me want to go see the movie. I loved everything about this one. It had all of the feels as throughout the book it showed different periods of time. A great read just in time for Christmas.

This was a sweet and nostalgic book typical of Kingsbury. Great story line with just the right amount of romance. I listened on audiobook and the narrator did a great job, as well. This book is also being made into a movie that I am excited to see.

5 big, bright, loving, Christmas-y stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*** This one has already been released, so please look 👀 for it in on shelves now!! ***
Additionally, apparently it is being released as a movie as well!!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelsonFictionAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

Oh my! this book is a cozy Christmas story and it was heartwarming and full of love and inspirational. I really enjoyed reading this beautiful book that gives you love and warmth.

With so much thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio

Karen Kingsbury delivers another heartfelt holiday story that blends faith, family, and the magic of Christmas. The Christmas Ring centers on themes of love, redemption, and the power of second chances, making it a perfect seasonal listen.

The audiobook narration is engaging and authentic, with a tone that captures both the tenderness of emotional scenes and the joy of festive moments. The pacing feels natural, and the narrator’s voice adds warmth that enhances the story’s message.
Story: Kingsbury’s signature style shines through—layered storytelling with relatable characters and heartfelt dialogue. The plot moves smoothly, balancing romance and reflection, and the Christmas setting adds a cozy backdrop that listeners will appreciate.
Overall Impression: This audiobook is ideal for fans of inspirational holiday fiction. It’s uplifting without being overly sentimental, and the narration makes it easy to get swept up in the spirit of the season.

A moving Christmas tale with narration that brings the story to life. Make sure you grab a copy and your favorite hot drink this holiday season and dig in.

The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury is a contemporary Christian fiction novel that I throughly enjoyed.

This beautiful tale is about a lost ring from WW II who’s owner has been searching for it for years since it was lost years ago.

The romantic aspect is about two widows, an antique dealer and a military widow, who inadvertently meet and find themselves drawn to each other.

The Christian aspect of this novel was truly inspiring and blessed me for the Christmas season.

I found this story very entertaining and I would recommend the book to others.

I enjoyed the narration and I thought it was excellent.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher.

I loved this audio. Karen’s writing is just something that will always suck me in. The military theme to it hits home for me. It was a sweet love of new romance after love.

Karen Kingsbury is a Christian romance queen. She absolutely delivered in this gem of a read. It has all the things I wanted in a touching Christmas story...Bible verses, Christian values/beliefs, military, and all the Christmas nostalgia and feel-good activities. You absolutely shouldn't miss out on this one this season. I can't wait to see the movie, although we know the book is always better.

I'm not always the biggest fan of later in life romances, but Vanessa and Ben's story was simply the sweetest. The hurt they had both experienced and then the joy and love they found in each other with God at the forefront was simply beautiful. I also loved the mother/daughter relationship between Vanessa and Sadie. There were some authentic growing pains portrayed that I think many mothers can relate to.

Things I loved:

❤️WWII prequel
❤️military themes
❤️respectful depictions of loss/healing
❤️Vanessa's besties (they are a hoot!)
❤️all the antiques
❤️Ben's dad and cousin (they make me want to learn how to play chess)
❤️real (and difficult) conversations
❤️all the Christmas feels
❤️so many Bible verses I needed to hear right now
❤️that moment in the snow
❤️epilogue

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚪

Loved the audio on this darling Christmas book. Love, loss and a Christmas with God. Apparently it’s also a Christmas movie this year! Can’t wait to see it.

Karen Kinsgbury never disappoints! The Christmas Ring was an absolute joy to listen to. The perfect short and sweet story for Christmas. I loved each character and the storyline was great. The narrator was amazing.

What a beautiful story this was @karenkingsbury

-I am beyond thankful I found this story on NetGalley! It was such an honor.

The story was beautiful and the characters were even better. I am so thrilled with how this story ended and how it all worked out.

I absolutely loved this short and sweet Christmas story! Karen Kingsbury does not miss! The Christmas ring has it all! History, Romance, Family, and Faith! I enjoyed the narration, also. It was very easy to listen to and I finished it one day! Thank you for the opportunity to listen to this lovely Christmas audiobook!

Karen Kingsbury is queen of emotional reads. You can't help but fall in love with her characters and stories. She has the ability to draw in all kinds of readers and always manages to tell the Gospel in her stories. She never crosses into that "cringe" category that often times Christian fiction can succumb to -sadly.
The Christmas Ring brought all of the charm and chemistry we see in her stories. There was nothing surprising or unforseen, but I enjoyed every single page.Despite the book being so short, Kingsbury made you feel like the characters were living their lives right in front of you. I was invested in the story and found my self wanting to know more about what happens next.....

Thank you Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this advanced copy and audiobook of The Christmas Ring. I was not paid for this review.

PS This is now a movie as well!

I loved this feel good and emotional Christmas Story. I especially liked the mystery behind the family heirloom Christmas ring. Watching Vanessa and Ben find a second love after loss. It is touching and beautiful. Karen Kingsbury has a way with words that really brings the reader into the story. You can almost smell the pinetrees and snow.

The audio narrator was great an easy to listen to.

There are no swears or alcohol and level 1 kisses only.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from @Netgalley and @thomasnelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #TheChristmasRing #NetGalley

When you're injured alongside your unit hiding in the trenches of Normandy and discover a gold ring buried in the mud whilst awaiting rescue, what would you do?
Vanessa Mayfield, a military widow and her daughter Sadie are out enjoying the heavy snowfall riding a sledge together when they discover Vanessa's family heirloom gold ring has vanished, after going back to see if they could find it within the snow with no luck, Sadie sets about making some posters to send to all antiques dealers and jewellery stores in the area hoping it may appear.
When Sadie announces she has got into University, Vanessa helps her unpack and get settled in then stops off in the next town and discovers an antique store. She steps inside and is welcomed by a gentleman called Ben who owns the store with his father, unbeknownst to them all at the time, spiritual guidance is playing his part in more ways than one.
Ben sets about helping Vanessa find her ring whilst also hunting for more items for his own shop and discover more about the rings history.
Thoroughly enjoyed this story and can't wait for the movie, very well constructed as an audio recording

I haven't read a Karen Kingsbury book in a long time and when I saw this was available in audiobook I knew I needed to listen to it. I'm so glad I did. This is such a beautiful a story that will have you feeling all of your emotions.

The narrator Paige McKinney did a wonderful job telling this story. I felt the characters emotions and she held my attention through the entire book. I really enjoyed her voice and couldn't have asked for a better narrator.

Vanessa's family has a Christmas ring that has been passed down for generations and one day she ends up losing it. This absolutely breaks her hearts and she will do anything she can to find it. She offers an award

to anyone that finds the ring. But a few years go by and nothing has come of the ring. One day she decides to go to a pawn shop and ends up striking up a friendship with a man named Ben.

Ben is co-owner of a pawn shop with his dad. When he meets Vanessa he starts spending a lot of time with her and has started a great friendship with her. But over time he wants it to turn into more but these two both have heartbreak from their past. Plus she needs to tell her daughter who is still not over not having her dad. Will these two be able to have more then friendship?

I loved the relationship between Ben & Vanessa. It's such a beautiful story that will have your heart melt. You will also love the relationship between mother and daughter as well. I always love when they have a bond thats strong and love spending time with each other.

Throughout this story we will be trying to figure out where this Christmas ring is and if Vanessa will actually get it back to her family where it belongs. I loved the ending of this book and I can't wait to see the movie! I highly recommend this audiobook!

Thank you Karen Kingsbury, NetGalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio | Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me to listen to this ALC for my honest opinion.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to The Christmas Ring. Paige McKinney did a perfect job narrating and I truly enjoyed this enchanting Christmas romance and the mystery of the missing heirloom ring that had been in Vanessa's family since World War 2! It's nice to read a second-chance-at-love story where the characters are a bit older and live Godly lives. This would make a great book club read for December!

Publication date: 21 October 2025

Vanessa Mayfield is a heroine who embodies strength, grace, and vulnerability. As a military widow, she has faced unimaginable loss, yet her spirit remains unbroken. Her quest to recover her family’s heirloom, the storied Christmas Ring discovered by her great-grandfather at Normandy, serves as both a literal and symbolic thread throughout the story. When Vanessa meets Ben Miller, the co-owner of a local antique store, their friendship and gentle romance grow naturally, providing moments of joy, tenderness, and genuine emotional connection.
The Christmas Ring is more than just a romance; it’s a story about the enduring power of love, family legacy, and finding hope when you least expect it. Kingsbury’s prose is elegant yet approachable, her pacing perfect, and her emotional beats hit with the kind of warmth that lingers long after the book is closed.

Follow the journey a special ring takes through the years and see God's fingerprints along the way.
Military families
WWII D-Day wrong side of the line, right place
Family heirloom
Forgotten gloves at the worst time
Faith strong enough to believe in prayer and miracles
Second chances
Chance encounters
Relationships change
Surprise reunions

I loved it! While there is romance in it, a huge part of the story is about a widowed mother who is now an empty-nester and is trying to find a new 'normal.' As a girl mom this pulled at my heart strings so many times. It's bitter sweet watching our children grow and author Karen Kingsbury captured perfectly the emotions of the ups and downs of a good mother-daughter relationship. I don't know what it's like to be a widow, but I can see having the same reactions and doubts Vanessa had. I was an absolute puddle when she removed her wedding ring and 'spoke' to her dead husband. That whole flash back scene required a box of tissue.
The daughter's POV was also relatable/believable.
The romance was a plus and the missing Christmas ring kept the story moving until it wrapped around again on Vanessa's finger with a cozy Christmas ending.
I know this is now a movie and I can't see how the movie would ever top this novel, but the curiosity is driving me to buy it. ;)
The narrator was amazing!

I listened to the audiobook of this one and just loved my time spent with these characters and this heartwarming story! And yes, I want to watch the movie now! I felt the emotions from the opening scene to the very end. There's worry and heartache and sorrow but the overpowering emotion throughout was Hope! I love that word so much and the power of the emotions that it evokes! My life is filled with Hope. I actually recently spoke in my church congregation about Hope and I loved studying and pondering what it is; to me, to others, and especially in relation to the Savior. I was reminded how much I rely on Hope and all that it encompasses in my life! And I loved seeing that Hope throughout this book. Some might read this story and think there's no way, but I have to say the opposite because of so many different experiences that I've had in my life, that I don't doubt it is possible.

Vanessa and Ben are just such sweet characters and their journey and relationship growing and developing left me smiling and so happy! I loved Paige McKinney as the narrator and how she brought the magic of Christmas and this story to life! If you're looking for a heartwarming and happy tale, I highly recommend you take a chance on this one! It more than checked all of the boxes for me!!!

Content: Clean. Some talk of military, some talk of death of a loved one. This is a Christian fiction novel so there are Christian elements.

I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

This audio book is wonderful. It reminds us of the real reason for the holiday season. Listening to this book was like having a warm blanket in front of a cozy fireplace. The characters were people you thought Scott even when you weren't listening to the book. It's a winner holiday listen with a salute to the military.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher. The opinions are my own.

The Christmas Ring by Karen Kingsbury completely wrapped my heart in the true spirit of Christmas. ❤️ I loved this audiobook—Paige McKinney’s narration was wonderful and brought so much warmth, emotion, and depth to the story. She truly told this story beautifully.

This is a heartfelt, faith-filled story about love, family, loss, hope, and what truly matters most. Karen Kingsbury weaves a reminder that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” and the message lingers long after the final chapter.

I was also gifted two tickets by the publisher to see the new movie and attended with my husband, and it was such a special experience. 🎬💍 The film represented the book so well and captured the magic and meaning of Christmas perfectly. Whether you choose the book, the audiobook, the movie—or all three—I highly recommend experiencing this story. The movie stars Jana Kramer and is a must-watch for the holiday season!

I featured this book not too long ago and I was so excited to read it as it got closer to Christmas. Huge thank you to the publisher for the #gifted hardcover and audio approval from NetGalley.

The author does a wonderful job establishing the importance of the “Christmas” ring, as the beginning of the story shows how it ended up in the family. Fast forward decades later, Vanessa and Sadie lose the ring in a different state. I enjoyed the dual POVs that gave the reader that perspective. How the ring comes into the lives of the characters was enjoyable and an adventure.

I enjoyed how Ben and his dad come into the story and their impact. I loved and appreciated how military families are valued in this book too. The author showed us the highs and lows of that life.

The audio narrator was wonderful. Paige McKinney’s tone was perfect for the story and with the variations of voices.

This is a wonderful, heart warming story for the holidays and any time of year.

This was such a beautiful story! I loved the characters and their relationships and dynamics. Vanessa and Ben were so well developed. I enjoyed the way their friendship developed and the space and support they gave each other. The story of the ring and how it was found at the beginning set the stage of the story beautifully. And the way it was found and the decisions that went into returning it to Veronica was such a lovely way to show the love and compassion of people for each other and the things that truly matter in this life. The audiobook was well read and I enjoyed listening to it from start to finish. I loved it and definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions are my own and are expressed voluntarily

Oh, what an uplifting read!

Perfect for Christmas time and putting you in a festive mood. This is my first book by this author, and I am definitely going to check out more of her books.

I appreciate so much the time she took to give honor to our military, to add in nostalgia and antiques to this such modern influenced world, and of course, the uplifting messages with all the glory given to God.

Vanessa is a widow, a mother, and she loses a family heirloom Christmas ring . During her search she comes across Ben, who is working at an antique store and being widowed himself they developed a friendship. Excellent character development and not just fluff. You feel like you know the characters very well and I’d love to know where else life takes them!

All the emotions! I cried, happy tears, and I cried sad tears. She definitely knows how to write in the emotions.

Thanks to netGalley and Thomas Nelson for my advanced reader copies. All opinions are my own. You definitely should check out this book!

Excellent narration as well.

I loved this Christian Hallmark Christmas Book. A beautiful Romantic Christian second chance at love with a mystery that unravels in an unexpected way.
A bounding experience for a mother and daughter.
A fun tearful moment to remember this is a must read or even if you’re not into books a must see movie. There lessons and Bible verses it’s set in a picture perfect small Christmas town, Faith, Snow & Holiday Glow.

The Christmas Ring is a poignant and faith-filled audiobook that blends romance, sacrifice, and spiritual reflection into a deeply emotional holiday story. Centered on a long-lost family heirloom, Karen Kingsbury uses the search for a Christmas ring as both a literal and symbolic journey toward healing and renewed hope.

Vanessa Mayfield, a military widow, is a compelling and sympathetic protagonist whose grief is portrayed with sensitivity and grace. Her growing relationship with antique dealer Ben Miller unfolds gently, grounded in friendship and shared values rather than instant passion. The tension between their feelings and the weight of Vanessa’s past gives the romance emotional credibility, while the presence of her daughter and her commitment to the annual military Christmas dance add meaningful layers to the story.

The audiobook narration enhances the novel’s emotional depth, particularly as the story moves toward its dramatic turning point involving the ring’s origins on D-Day and the moral dilemma Ben faces. Kingsbury skillfully ties this moment to the book’s central theme, reinforcing the biblical truth that where one’s treasure lies, so too does the heart.

Ultimately, The Christmas Ring is a moving and uplifting listen, ideal for the Christmas season. It will resonate with listeners who appreciate inspirational fiction that emphasizes faith, love after loss, and the enduring power of doing what is right—even when it comes at a personal cost.

Karen Kingsbury delivers a touching story of a lost ring and a divine plan that only God could orchestrate. I was so inspired by Vanessa’s faith and the way she used scripture to anchor her daughter, Sadie, through a scary season. It’s a beautiful reminder that God’s Word is our ultimate comfort. If you love a story filled with faith and a little Christmas magic, don't miss this one! Many thanks to @NetGalley, @ThomasNelson, and @Zondervan for the gifted audio copy.

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, Zondervan Fiction Audio, and Karen Kingsbury for the opportunity to listen to this wonderful story!

#TheChristmasRing #KarenKingsbury #ChristianFiction #HolidayReads #NetGalley #BookReview

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This audiobook was incredibly touching and beautifully done. The story is heartfelt and emotional without being heavy, and the narration made it easy to get completely lost in the listening experience. I loved how the romance unfolded gently, with so much warmth, hope, and meaning woven throughout. If you enjoy emotional, faith-tinged love stories that feel comforting and uplifting, this audiobook is a wonderful choice.

It’s been years since I read a Kingsbury novel and this was the perfect welcome back!

Warm-hearted, sweet, and perfect for Christmas, this book hit the perfect spot! I love how she showed God’s providence and that Him being in control doesn’t always mean everything works out the way you want it to BUT that hard things can lead to good things.

I highly recommend this and would love to see the movie this year! If you are a Christian romance fan or a fan of sweet romance - this book is for you.

My rating: 5*

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this gifted copy! All opinions are my own.

The Christmas Ring written by Karen Kingsbury and arrated by Paige McKinney

The Christmas Ring is a very good holiday read. There isn’t an over abundance of Christmas to prevent this from being a delightful read throughout the year. I’m a huge fan of hallmark Christmas movies so this was right up my alley. The storyline includes thrifting so that added even more enjoyment in. The book has already been made into a movie so I can’t wait to see it.

Thank you @tnzfiction @karenkingsbury and @tlcbooktours for my complimentary copy. This was my first Christmas read of the year and this one has all the seasonal vibes I love: a heartwarming story along with a Christmas setting and an ending with a Christmas miracle and a Christmas dance! If you enjoy inspirational stories of the season, this one is for you!

This is the first Karen Kingsbury novel that I have finished. I started a couple but did not finish them. I like her books. It is a faith based book. It talks about God in it. There are some Bible verses in it as well. It was a perfect and great holiday read. I want to see the movie as well. You can feel God in the story. It has the spirit of Christmas in it.

The story was beautiful and great. You can see the mother and the daughter relationship in the book as well. Where the mother, Vanessa comforts her daughter, Sophie while her boyfriend is on deployment in the military. While Vanessa has her own problems to deal with. She lost her ring that has been in her family for generations. She meets Ben and Ben helps her to find her ring. Vanessa has been praying for the ring to come to her. God used Ben to make that happen. I thought that was a great idea. To put a little romance in it. Sophie, the daughter comforts her mother at times as well. The characters submitted to God's guidance.

Thank you, Netgalley to let me read and review this. Even tho, it is already out. Thank you again.

Once again, never disppointed by a Karen Kingsbury story!
A sweet Christmas love story that kept me drawn in up until the end. If you're looking for a clean, "feel good", happy ending Christmas romance, this is it.

I loved how The Christmas Ring highlights faith, love, and family. The story follows a ring that connects multiple generations, making it especially meaningful. It is a touching Christian novel and a perfect read for the Christmas season.

The Christmas Ring is a heartfelt, beautifully written holiday romance that blends faith, love, and the enduring bonds of military families. Karen Stansbury delivers a story that feels both tender and meaningful, rooted in loss, hope, and the courage it takes to open your heart again.
Vanessa’s journey as a military widow is portrayed with such care and authenticity, and as someone who loves stories centered on military families, this one truly resonated with me. Her relationship with Ben unfolds naturally—built first on friendship, trust, and shared values—making their romance feel deeply earned. The mystery of the heirloom ring, tied to D-Day and family legacy, adds emotional weight and historical richness to the story.
Set against the warmth of the Christmas season, this book is filled with themes of second chances, faith, and the reminder that love doesn’t end—it transforms. The Christmas Ring is uplifting, romantic, and full of heart, making it a perfect read for the holidays and beyond.