Susan Page Davis

I absolutely loved this anthology. These stories carry strength, heart, and the kind of faith content that lingers long after the last page. Every chapter reflected the truth of Scripture lived out in the ordinary and the unexpected, showing how trust in Christ shapes even the hardest places.

Some lines marked my heart deeply. “You need to surrender to God and drop that load of grief and bitterness you’re carrying, or it’s going to destroy you and hurt all the people who love you.” show more That truth is piercing and unforgettable. Another moment spoke of courage in the simplest terms: “She stepped out in faith, trusting God …” Those words echoed like a quiet anthem of obedience.

The stories also carried gratitude and hope. “…with her heart overflowing, she lifted a prayer of thanks to God for His faithfulness.” That prayer felt like my own as I read. And then the invitation that threads through all of life: “Allow God to redeem you.” That single line carries the weight of the Gospel.

What I found here was substance and depth … beautiful fiction that honors Christ and brings encouragement. These novellas demonstrate that every true love story begins with Him and every second chance flows from His hand.

Christmas Mail-Order Brides is a gift worth treasuring, filled with faith, tenderness, and eternal hope.

I received a digital copy from Celebrate Lit Tour Publicity Group. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book and audiobook review are my own. My review focuses on the writing, the story’s content, and the narration ensuring transparency and reliability. show less

I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed this!

The characters are really intriguing, particularly George, even if he did drive me crazy for parts of the book. But Pierre was what made this story for me! He was just such an awesome character! I love his and Rachel's relationship. Yay for platonic relationships!
The storyline kept me glued to my seat, especially towards the end. I loved how it was part survival story, part suspense novel.

Overall, I really enjoyed it!

CONTENT NOTE: Recommended for show more ages 16 for romance and thematic material. The MC was sexually assaulted, and while the scene is not described in detail, it was still mentioned. Also there is some attraction between the characters and some light romance. Also some violence and gun fights. show less

First let’s acknowledge how beautiful the cover of this book is! It really evokes that country holiday feel. I always tend to read more faith based fiction during the holidays and Mountain Christmas Brides is perfect for that. There are nine short romance stories in this book (and isn’t it easier to find time to read short stories during the busy holidays?). Some of the stories are better than others, however I did have a couple of favorites. A Trusting Heart by Carrie Turansky is a show more sweet story involving a mail order bride. The writing was simple and straight-forward and included elements of Swedish Christmas traditions which I found really interesting. My other favorite was One Evergreen Night by Debby Lee. It includes interesting historical elements of life in a logging camp and a piglet named Bacon! If you enjoy sweet, romantic holiday fiction stories, then I recommend you give this book a try.
*I was provided with a copy of this book via Net Galley in exchange for my review. show less

Review for THE EVERYGREEN BRIDE:

I couldn’t help but fall in love with this story.

The heroine, like myself, is a Mississippi girl who loves snow. Only Mississippi doesn’t see snow that often, especially enough to cover the ground in white.

Samuel had my heart from the beginning. His quiet, gentle interest in Annabelle is portrayed so well, though he hides it from the heroine until he thinks he’s going to lose her to a fellow up north!

Their tender exchanges and the push-pull is so sweet show more and sigh-worthy. Especially the gift at the end. Makes my heart smile. Definitely a worthy read, like all Ms. Hillman’s works. show less