A Christmas Gift

Title: A CHRISTMAS GIFT

Author: Kathi Macias

Publisher: New Hope Publishers

September 2014

ISBN:    978-1596694163

Genre: Christmas Novel / contemporary / Women’s fiction

Chiapas, Mexico, had proven to be the distraction and escape Julie needed. As a teacher, she had longed to travel and instruct abroad. Now, she was teaching and falling in love with her students. But what she didn't expect happened in the short days leading up to Christmas.  She didn’t know that her freedom would depend on Ramon, the local pastor. She didn’t anticipate the emotions this man of God would stir deep in her spirit. This Christmas Eve service would be unlike any other she had ever experienced. Would this simple man and his faith be enough to cause her to stay when she had every reason to leave?

My thoughts:  Julie is a heroine my age whose husband tragically dies, leaving Julie alone—except for her two college-age children. She is in depressed and after she gets home from work (a school teacher) she cries a lot. Her family want her to “get out more” to do something to get over her depression, but when she finds what she wants to do—teach school in Mexico—everyone is against it.

This was a realistic story that was alternately heart-pounding scary, heartwarming, and heartbreaking at times. I was glad Julie found a purpose, but I also understood her parents’ and children’s objections.

A great Christmas story, for keeping for yourself or for giving as a gift. Available in print and ebook. 224 pages.