Rebecca Boxall
Author of Christmas at the Vicarage
Works by Rebecca Boxall
Christmas at the Cabin 1 copy
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The Christmas Forest by Rebecca Boxall
3.5 - Overall the concept is a good one. It's nice to see a story from the viewpoint of someone with Asperger's (being a mother to a child with high functioning autism). However, there is a bit of weakness to the writing that could be improved upon (transitioning, for example) and certain little "quirks" that drove me a little bit batty. But it's not often that you see a story told from the POV of someone on the spectrum, so that earns it a little bit of a plus from me.
Challenged Romance. This book did an excellent job of following the standard tropes while making it seem like that might not happen - at least for someone who had never read this author before. The particular challenges this couple face could be considered insurmountable, but the author does a great job of showing the couple come together through the challenges, rather than fall apart because of them. Excellent work, and very much recommended.
This book is perfect for those who are fans of dual timeline stories. If you love history, and WWII history in particular, this tale explores a part that I was woefully unaware of - the Nazi occupation of Jersey around 1941.
This story is told from two viewpoints. The first is that of the over-accommodating Libby, the vicar's wife. A people pleaser and a conflict avoider, she's overwhelmed by work and the demands of her children. (I'd probably be frustrated by her character if I didn't relate so much.) She is frantically preparing for the Christmas holiday in Jersey, Channel Islands, when her mom suffers an injury and needs her help. As she's tying up loose ends to leave home for a few days and dealing with her demanding family, she suffers a falling out with her best friend Stella.
It's unknown to her the reason for the falling out or why her friend feels betrayed. Her parents, however, have a better idea why her friend has suddenly turned on her and encourage Libby to read her great-aunt Queen's journal to understand family history.
The other half of Christmas on the Coast is told through the teenage Queenie as the island of Jersey is occupied by the Nazis, and she and her family see life as they know it change. Despite the hardships caused by the occupation, the resilience, bravery and spirit of the locals shines through. The source of the betrayal and subsequent grudge carried by Stella's family is slowly revealed as Queenie's tale is shared.
Libby was an interesting, relatable character who is taken for granted and taken advantage of by her children and her work. Her parents were utterly delightful characters. Where Libby is drowning in the chaos of her life, Queenie is grace and hope. The two stories weave neatly together but it was the historical aspects, the story of Queenie and her family, and all they endured that really sucked me into the story.
My only quibble is with the speed of Stella's rejection of their life-long friendship upon learning the reason behind the family grudge. I realize that learning about the source of the rift was key to the story, but I struggled with how fast she put up a wall and shut Libby out.
This is so much more than a sweet Christmas tale. It's a story of resiliency and bravery, of the grudges families hold, of misunderstandings, and ultimately, one of of forgiveness.
Fans of The Baker's Daughter and The Orphan Train will love this book. If you are looking for a wonderfully absorbing read, this is the one for you.
Many thanks to Netgalley and to Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a review copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
… (more)
This story is told from two viewpoints. The first is that of the over-accommodating Libby, the vicar's wife. A people pleaser and a conflict avoider, she's overwhelmed by work and the demands of her children. (I'd probably be frustrated by her character if I didn't relate so much.) She is frantically preparing for the Christmas holiday in Jersey, Channel Islands, when her mom suffers an injury and needs her help. As she's tying up loose ends to leave home for a few days and dealing with her demanding family, she suffers a falling out with her best friend Stella.
It's unknown to her the reason for the falling out or why her friend feels betrayed. Her parents, however, have a better idea why her friend has suddenly turned on her and encourage Libby to read her great-aunt Queen's journal to understand family history.
The other half of Christmas on the Coast is told through the teenage Queenie as the island of Jersey is occupied by the Nazis, and she and her family see life as they know it change. Despite the hardships caused by the occupation, the resilience, bravery and spirit of the locals shines through. The source of the betrayal and subsequent grudge carried by Stella's family is slowly revealed as Queenie's tale is shared.
Libby was an interesting, relatable character who is taken for granted and taken advantage of by her children and her work. Her parents were utterly delightful characters. Where Libby is drowning in the chaos of her life, Queenie is grace and hope. The two stories weave neatly together but it was the historical aspects, the story of Queenie and her family, and all they endured that really sucked me into the story.
My only quibble is with the speed of Stella's rejection of their life-long friendship upon learning the reason behind the family grudge. I realize that learning about the source of the rift was key to the story, but I struggled with how fast she put up a wall and shut Libby out.
This is so much more than a sweet Christmas tale. It's a story of resiliency and bravery, of the grudges families hold, of misunderstandings, and ultimately, one of of forgiveness.
Fans of The Baker's Daughter and The Orphan Train will love this book. If you are looking for a wonderfully absorbing read, this is the one for you.
Many thanks to Netgalley and to Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a review copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
… (more)
A brilliant read that gives insight into life during the second world war in an area that's often overlooked by history. Although not a true account, the based on history diary is a brilliant read, and the accompanying story is well paced and relatable.
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- Works
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- Rating
- 3.6
- Reviews
- 10
- ISBNs
- 20