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The Christmas Tree Farm
When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie's unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison's heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.
With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.
With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there's only one thing to double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work--and some help from an unlikely ally--to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.
176 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2024
About the author
Melody Carlson
416 books2,939 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
September 5, 2024
REVIEW TO COME🎄🎄!!!!!!!!!!
August 29, 2024
There is something about books with the setting of a Christmas tree farm that brings to mind a real sense of Christmas spirit that I enjoy, and I found this book hard to put down and was a quick read. This story has some real family struggles with underlying and unresolved issues that are brought out when Madison returns from a five-year contract teaching in Mongolia after hearing how the area was hit hard by wildfire. Her sister Addie has stayed at the farm helping her dad and grandmother for the time period but now both are dead, and Addie is overwhelmed and honestly, quite ugly and childish acting towards Madison. She has given up working the farm, so Madison works to revive the farm by replanting trees and opening it for Christmas tree sales against Addie's wishes. I was not a fan of Addie especially when Gavin, an old high school crush of Madison's, and Lily, his daughter, get close to Madison and Addie is jealous. But this story ultimately is about forgiveness, healing, grace, love, and faith tied in with the spirit of Christmas as more family members join together to celebrate the holidays.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
September 3, 2024
If you’re looking for a Christmas in July book to read or perhaps just browsing through Christmas books before the holiday this cute novella might be just what you’re looking for. Melody Carlson is one of my favorite authors and it’s become a favorite tradition for me to read her new Christmas novella each year. This story is an uplifting novella about a second chance romance. I thought it was romantic and Christmassy. It was an easy and quick read and it didn’t disappoint this reader.
Madison McDowell has spent the last five years on a teaching mission in Mongolia. She returns to the Christmas tree Farm where she had spent her summers with her grandparents and Dad when she was growing up. Now Madison is a co-owner of the tree farm with her younger sister Addie. Madison hopes to surprise her sister with her unannounced arrival but Addie is not happy to see her. Addie wants to sell the Christmas tree farm but Madison wishes to fix up the neglected farm and build the business back up to what it was when her grandparents ran it. The two don’t see eye to eye and things become stressful at times. To make matters worse Madison’s old high school flame lives next to the tree farm. Addie has her eyes on Gavin Thompson for herself but Gavin has his eyes on Madison. Can anything good come out of this unhappy reunion between the McDowell sisters?
I recommend this novella to readers of Christian Fiction, contemporary romance and Christmassy books.This is a standalone Novella . It is scheduled for release on 9/3/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are solely my own.
#TheChristmasTreeFarm #NetGalley
Madison McDowell has spent the last five years on a teaching mission in Mongolia. She returns to the Christmas tree Farm where she had spent her summers with her grandparents and Dad when she was growing up. Now Madison is a co-owner of the tree farm with her younger sister Addie. Madison hopes to surprise her sister with her unannounced arrival but Addie is not happy to see her. Addie wants to sell the Christmas tree farm but Madison wishes to fix up the neglected farm and build the business back up to what it was when her grandparents ran it. The two don’t see eye to eye and things become stressful at times. To make matters worse Madison’s old high school flame lives next to the tree farm. Addie has her eyes on Gavin Thompson for herself but Gavin has his eyes on Madison. Can anything good come out of this unhappy reunion between the McDowell sisters?
I recommend this novella to readers of Christian Fiction, contemporary romance and Christmassy books.This is a standalone Novella . It is scheduled for release on 9/3/24.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are solely my own.
#TheChristmasTreeFarm #NetGalley
July 27, 2024
“As soon as McDowell’s Family Christmas Tree Farm runs out of Christmas spirit, we’ll be out of business.”
With Madison in Mongolia teaching, her sister Addie was left managing the family’s farm in Oregon for the past five years. Weary at dealing with wildfire damage and resentful at Madison’s globetrotting, Addie has failed to do what it takes to keep the Christmas tree farm viable. She wants to sell and move on with her life. When Madison returns and makes changes to the way it’s run, hoping to resuscitate the business, the sisters find themselves at a standoff. It doesn’t help that Madison’s first love, Gavin Thompson, has moved in next door and has plans for his property that Madison finds irksome. Can they put their past behind them to move forward? Can they coexist? What about Addie?
I loved this immersive story full of the true meaning of Christmas and highlighting peace, forgiveness, unity, and second chances. I appreciated learning about the tree planting business (plugs, etc) as I read and found the delicate balance between sibling drama and percolating romance enjoyable. It was refreshing to read about a character who was willing to take a risk to keep her heritage and one who realized the value of community spirit and working together.
This new-to-me author is one I'll put on my radar as I love her writing style and message.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
With Madison in Mongolia teaching, her sister Addie was left managing the family’s farm in Oregon for the past five years. Weary at dealing with wildfire damage and resentful at Madison’s globetrotting, Addie has failed to do what it takes to keep the Christmas tree farm viable. She wants to sell and move on with her life. When Madison returns and makes changes to the way it’s run, hoping to resuscitate the business, the sisters find themselves at a standoff. It doesn’t help that Madison’s first love, Gavin Thompson, has moved in next door and has plans for his property that Madison finds irksome. Can they put their past behind them to move forward? Can they coexist? What about Addie?
I loved this immersive story full of the true meaning of Christmas and highlighting peace, forgiveness, unity, and second chances. I appreciated learning about the tree planting business (plugs, etc) as I read and found the delicate balance between sibling drama and percolating romance enjoyable. It was refreshing to read about a character who was willing to take a risk to keep her heritage and one who realized the value of community spirit and working together.
This new-to-me author is one I'll put on my radar as I love her writing style and message.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 31, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Christmas Tree Farm, by Melody Carlson, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. When Madison McDowell returns home from Mongolia, a lot had changed, fire has damaged the town, and their tree farm. Madison wants to help her sister with the farm, but Addie wants to sell, they both also like the same man. This was a really good, read, short though.
September 30, 2024
A sweet second chance romance set on a Christmas tree farm.
When Madison travels back home to help with the family's farm, she funds the farm not doing so great. A surprise next door neighbor and problems up to ears. Perfect setting and a lovely story.
I loved the character of Madison as well as the sweet second chance. I was kind of sad how their relationship ended the first time, but was so happy they got their chance. I also really liked the family dynamics and the family drama worked well with how the story unfolded.
If you love Christmas books with deep heartfelt characters and stories, pick this one up!
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
When Madison travels back home to help with the family's farm, she funds the farm not doing so great. A surprise next door neighbor and problems up to ears. Perfect setting and a lovely story.
I loved the character of Madison as well as the sweet second chance. I was kind of sad how their relationship ended the first time, but was so happy they got their chance. I also really liked the family dynamics and the family drama worked well with how the story unfolded.
If you love Christmas books with deep heartfelt characters and stories, pick this one up!
*thank you to Baker Publishing for a complimentary copy of this book to read, all thoughts are my own.
July 26, 2024
This is my fist Melody Carlson book and I have to say, I had just a great time. Reading a book in July like Christmas in July. Only thing I forgot was to put a Hallmark Christmas movie on in the background.
Madison has spent the past five years in Mongolia teaching English but with a change in her relationship she has finally moved back to the place she grew up on. A Christmas tree farm that her grandparents had built.
When she gets home to her sister, who has been handling the farm, he gets a bit of resistance and the sister wants to sell. Madison is determined to prove that the Christmas Tree farm is in fact profitable and worth keeping. Plus, her old crush from when she was a teenager is back living on the neighboring land.
I really did have fund with it. It was like a cozy, comfortable and down home story. I also loved that it wasn't just Christmas. We got to experience Autumn and Thanksgiving as well and Madison did a lot of things that remind you of small town events in a Hallmark movie.
This is a novella so it's super quick to read and just wholesome! Start your Holiday reading now! You won't regret it!
*Copy provided by Netgalley for an honest review*
Madison has spent the past five years in Mongolia teaching English but with a change in her relationship she has finally moved back to the place she grew up on. A Christmas tree farm that her grandparents had built.
When she gets home to her sister, who has been handling the farm, he gets a bit of resistance and the sister wants to sell. Madison is determined to prove that the Christmas Tree farm is in fact profitable and worth keeping. Plus, her old crush from when she was a teenager is back living on the neighboring land.
I really did have fund with it. It was like a cozy, comfortable and down home story. I also loved that it wasn't just Christmas. We got to experience Autumn and Thanksgiving as well and Madison did a lot of things that remind you of small town events in a Hallmark movie.
This is a novella so it's super quick to read and just wholesome! Start your Holiday reading now! You won't regret it!
*Copy provided by Netgalley for an honest review*
October 4, 2024
I found this touching story grew on me, just like the trees on the farm grew in this second chances story. I appreciated the growth of the characters too as they deal with loss and pain and struggle with relationships. I also like the setting and the attempt to revive the area plus the leadup to Christmas—my favorite time of year. All this makes for a satisfying tale to read any time, but by a fire on a cool day sounds great right now. I would also recommend this for a fun book club discussion. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #TheChristmasTreeFarm #NetGalley
August 18, 2024
Madison returns to the family farm after being away for years. She is hoping to reconnect with her sister. The farm is going to need everything she has to survive. A nice holiday read
September 5, 2024
Melody Carlson’s The Christmas Tree Farm is a heartwarming hug of the Christmas season, intricately wrapped in the complexities of family dynamics. Madison McDowell’s return to her family’s beloved Christmas tree farm unveils the harsh reality of wildfire damage and her sister Addie’s reluctance to revive the cherished homestead.
The festive charm of the season stands in stark contrast to the chaos of a dirt bike track being planned next door, adding another layer to Madison’s challenges. The characters, while not deeply intricate, exude a comforting warmth that makes the story both endearing and relatable.
This story captures the cozy traditions of a Christmas tree farm and the special, sometimes rare, moments of family togetherness with a gentle touch. Carlson’s storytelling casts a soft, festive glow over the struggles, offering a delightful escape into a world where Christmas and family bonds are sweetly intertwined.
I received a digital copy of The Christmas Tree Farm from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
The festive charm of the season stands in stark contrast to the chaos of a dirt bike track being planned next door, adding another layer to Madison’s challenges. The characters, while not deeply intricate, exude a comforting warmth that makes the story both endearing and relatable.
This story captures the cozy traditions of a Christmas tree farm and the special, sometimes rare, moments of family togetherness with a gentle touch. Carlson’s storytelling casts a soft, festive glow over the struggles, offering a delightful escape into a world where Christmas and family bonds are sweetly intertwined.
I received a digital copy of The Christmas Tree Farm from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
October 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An absolutely delightful Christmas read, wonderful story line and characters.
An absolutely delightful Christmas read, wonderful story line and characters.
November 5, 2024
I enjoyed this second chance romance and the aspect of two sisters pining for the same man. There was a lot of family building as well as found family all based on a Christmas tree farm! 🎄🎄
August 10, 2024
Melody Carlson has a new Christmas novella every year. I’ve read many of her Christmas novellas and enjoyed them. It is always a treat to read another one by her.
This book follows Madison, who has returned to the Christmas tree farm that she inherited (and now co-owns) with her sister after devastating wildfires have hurt much of their community.
This story was so cute. I loved the Christmas tree farm setting. I will say, this is a perfect Christmas book to read early in the season, as it actually begins in September and goes forward to Christmas. Thanksgiving was around the 60 percent or 2/3rds mark if I’m remembering correctly. Normally, I like my Christmas books to be more Christmas focused, but this was about life on the Christmas tree farm so it focused on planting, wreath-making, and other things to get ready for the Black Friday rush to get a tree.
Madison was constantly butting heads with her sister Addie, to the point where I looked at my Kindle and saw I was almost done with the book and had no idea how all that conflict would resolve. Being a novella, it definitely happened quickly (almost too quickly, especially given how prickly Addie was).
This novella also has a small subplot of Madison getting reacquainted with Gavin, a guy she had a major crush on as a teenager, and his preteen daughter Lily. I really liked the relationship that developed between Madison and Lily. They had many sweet scenes together. I was fairly meh about the romance though. If Gavin was supposedly so ~~in love~~ with Madison back then, why did he sleep with the other girl (who became pregnant and he married her at age 18)? Yes, it was explained that the other girl was “out to get him” but he still could have said no, especially if he was as enamored with Madison as he claimed to be.
His proposal to Madison at the end came out of nowhere as well.
Overall, though, this was a cute Christmas read that would be perfect to read early in the season.
This book follows Madison, who has returned to the Christmas tree farm that she inherited (and now co-owns) with her sister after devastating wildfires have hurt much of their community.
This story was so cute. I loved the Christmas tree farm setting. I will say, this is a perfect Christmas book to read early in the season, as it actually begins in September and goes forward to Christmas. Thanksgiving was around the 60 percent or 2/3rds mark if I’m remembering correctly. Normally, I like my Christmas books to be more Christmas focused, but this was about life on the Christmas tree farm so it focused on planting, wreath-making, and other things to get ready for the Black Friday rush to get a tree.
Madison was constantly butting heads with her sister Addie, to the point where I looked at my Kindle and saw I was almost done with the book and had no idea how all that conflict would resolve. Being a novella, it definitely happened quickly (almost too quickly, especially given how prickly Addie was).
This novella also has a small subplot of Madison getting reacquainted with Gavin, a guy she had a major crush on as a teenager, and his preteen daughter Lily. I really liked the relationship that developed between Madison and Lily. They had many sweet scenes together. I was fairly meh about the romance though. If Gavin was supposedly so ~~in love~~ with Madison back then, why did he sleep with the other girl (who became pregnant and he married her at age 18)? Yes, it was explained that the other girl was “out to get him” but he still could have said no, especially if he was as enamored with Madison as he claimed to be.
His proposal to Madison at the end came out of nowhere as well.
Overall, though, this was a cute Christmas read that would be perfect to read early in the season.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2024
Gavin and Maddie were the perfect pair, and I devoured this book. NO ONE does a touching Christmas book like Carlson. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
July 27, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
i love a good christmas tree storyline and this book hit it in spades....
madison was finally home after spending the last 5 years teaching in mongolia. she was ready to help bring the christmas tree farm back from the brink after the raging fire took out several places around them... lucking the christmas tree farm had minimal damage
though her sister addie wasnt that pleased to see her.....
so maddie did what she did best and ordered 6000 plug christmas tree plants and set about planting them.... and though she needed help she didnt really get it from her sister but from her neighbours who happened to be her long lost love from her teenage years...
this is a charming storyline filled with all the things that make a good christmas tree farm enjoyable and it makes me want to go order some christmas tree plug plants now....
will be keeping an eye out for more by this author
i love a good christmas tree storyline and this book hit it in spades....
madison was finally home after spending the last 5 years teaching in mongolia. she was ready to help bring the christmas tree farm back from the brink after the raging fire took out several places around them... lucking the christmas tree farm had minimal damage
though her sister addie wasnt that pleased to see her.....
so maddie did what she did best and ordered 6000 plug christmas tree plants and set about planting them.... and though she needed help she didnt really get it from her sister but from her neighbours who happened to be her long lost love from her teenage years...
this is a charming storyline filled with all the things that make a good christmas tree farm enjoyable and it makes me want to go order some christmas tree plug plants now....
will be keeping an eye out for more by this author
August 4, 2024
Short and sweet! I really enjoyed the relationship between Madison and Lily. The other family dynamics made the story interesting as well.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
October 28, 2024
When Madison comes home to the McDowell family Christmas tree farm, she finds that between wildfire damage and neglect from her sister, she has her work cut out for her to get the farm up and running. She finds the now - widowed, Gavin, her childhood sweetheart, is her neighbor. With her relationship with her sister in shambles, and old feeling for Gavin showing up, can she save the farm she loves so dearly?
🎄
This was a fun book! I liked the characters and reading about the tree farm. There was a love triangle between Madison, her sister, and Gavin. Not my favorite trope, but it was fine. I thought it dragged on a bit in places, but I did enjoy it overall. This was a quick read so I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something short and sweet to read.
3.5 ✨
🎄
This was a fun book! I liked the characters and reading about the tree farm. There was a love triangle between Madison, her sister, and Gavin. Not my favorite trope, but it was fine. I thought it dragged on a bit in places, but I did enjoy it overall. This was a quick read so I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something short and sweet to read.
3.5 ✨
November 15, 2024
Melody Carlson delivers another Christmas novella full of emotion and family.
Madison returns from a 5-year teaching contract in Mongolia only to discover the devastation a wildfire has caused at the family Christmas Tree Farm. Hurt feelings, regret, and resentment follow-up from her sister Addison who lives through it while caretaking their dad and grandma over the years.
It doesn't help that next door neighbor is old high school flame Gavin who has his own history he brings from the intervening years.
As Madison tries to rekindle the Tree Farm, the whole family learns life lessons and growing together again.
Madison returns from a 5-year teaching contract in Mongolia only to discover the devastation a wildfire has caused at the family Christmas Tree Farm. Hurt feelings, regret, and resentment follow-up from her sister Addison who lives through it while caretaking their dad and grandma over the years.
It doesn't help that next door neighbor is old high school flame Gavin who has his own history he brings from the intervening years.
As Madison tries to rekindle the Tree Farm, the whole family learns life lessons and growing together again.
July 12, 2024
This review by librarian Christine Barth first appeared in the July 2024 issue of Library Journal.
Madison McDowell has spent years in Mongolia, dedicating her life to charity—and a one-sided romantic relationship. She wants nothing more than to return to her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon, but her arrival is met with a chilly reception by her sister Addie, who seems to resent the caregiving role she undertook in Madison's absence. As Madison throws herself into saving the family business, which was devastated by the previous season's wildfires, Addie's chilly reception morphs into outright hostility.
The two sisters must reconcile, or they risk losing everything. Meanwhile, neighbor Gavin is disturbing the peaceful region with a dirt-bike track for his surly teenage daughter. Gavin also happens to be Madison's first love, a romance that ended badly in high school.
VERDICT This satisfying Christmas novel will find year-round fans, as Carlson (Just for the Summer) brings her relationship insight to another unique tale set in the Pacific Northwest. Readers looking for a fast, charming read with hints of faith will enjoy this novella.
Madison McDowell has spent years in Mongolia, dedicating her life to charity—and a one-sided romantic relationship. She wants nothing more than to return to her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon, but her arrival is met with a chilly reception by her sister Addie, who seems to resent the caregiving role she undertook in Madison's absence. As Madison throws herself into saving the family business, which was devastated by the previous season's wildfires, Addie's chilly reception morphs into outright hostility.
The two sisters must reconcile, or they risk losing everything. Meanwhile, neighbor Gavin is disturbing the peaceful region with a dirt-bike track for his surly teenage daughter. Gavin also happens to be Madison's first love, a romance that ended badly in high school.
VERDICT This satisfying Christmas novel will find year-round fans, as Carlson (Just for the Summer) brings her relationship insight to another unique tale set in the Pacific Northwest. Readers looking for a fast, charming read with hints of faith will enjoy this novella.
August 16, 2024
I believe I would be an outlier here, I didn't enjoy it personally and it may not be to my taste, but it could appeal to others.
When Maddison returns from several years of teaching overseas to her family's Christmas tree farm, she finds that her sister wants to sell the farm and has no interest in running the business. To make matters worse, her ex-boyfriend returns and lives next door — the man she still has feelings for, the one who left her without any explanation and married someone else. And to top it off, he wants to open a dirt bike track for her daughter, bringing lots of noise and dirt to her once peaceful agricultural land.
I didn't like any of the characters. Her sister is selfish and immature, and her ex's daughters are rude and spoiled. I had a hard time finding anything relatable in the story; everything seemed very unrealistic.
The romance and the ending were rushed. Gavin never apologized for why he married another woman or explained what happened and why he hurt Maddie, even though he had said that Maddison was the only woman he ever loved.
I loved the cover and Christmas stories, but unfortunately, I did not enjoy this particular one...Releases Sep 03.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the eARC.
When Maddison returns from several years of teaching overseas to her family's Christmas tree farm, she finds that her sister wants to sell the farm and has no interest in running the business. To make matters worse, her ex-boyfriend returns and lives next door — the man she still has feelings for, the one who left her without any explanation and married someone else. And to top it off, he wants to open a dirt bike track for her daughter, bringing lots of noise and dirt to her once peaceful agricultural land.
I didn't like any of the characters. Her sister is selfish and immature, and her ex's daughters are rude and spoiled. I had a hard time finding anything relatable in the story; everything seemed very unrealistic.
The romance and the ending were rushed. Gavin never apologized for why he married another woman or explained what happened and why he hurt Maddie, even though he had said that Maddison was the only woman he ever loved.
I loved the cover and Christmas stories, but unfortunately, I did not enjoy this particular one...Releases Sep 03.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the eARC.
October 3, 2024
And now I want a filbert farm. Yes, filbert! Hazelnuts are no longer a thing in my book. 😂
The story was cute but the sibling tension seemed unnecessary and glazed over. The ending jumping from point A to point Z real quick and I just didn’t get the depth of romance that I typically find in this authors Christmas stories.
The story was cute but the sibling tension seemed unnecessary and glazed over. The ending jumping from point A to point Z real quick and I just didn’t get the depth of romance that I typically find in this authors Christmas stories.
September 10, 2024
I love Christmastime. And I love the way this author can draw you into her sweet, heart-tugging stories.
A lot has happened back home in the years that Madison was away teaching in Mongolia. Her Dad and Grandmother have both passed on and her sister, Addie, is holding down the fort with the McDowell Family Christmas Tree Farm, which Madison is now the co-owner of. When she returns to the home where they spent their childhood summers, she is also faced with seeing the destruction of a wildfire that damaged many of the nearby farms and part of her own. She feels emotional and remembers her grandmother's words just before she passed away. She told Madison in a letter that they were blessed and that God spared them for a reason.
Madison's return home was a surprise to her sister and seemed to be an unwelcome one. She soon finds out that Addie has every intention of selling the farm but Madison wants to hang on to their roots and digs her heels in deep. She plans to make the current season a success so that Addie will change her mind, even if she has to do it all on her own. She also learns that her teenage ex-boyfriend, Gavin, is back and now owns the destroyed hazelnut farm next door. She is horrified to learn that he plans to build a dirt bike destination for his young daughter, Lily, right next to their tree farm!
This may be considered a novella but I have to say, there is so much packed in this beautiful story! We see Madison struggle not only with trying to help the farm succeed but also with the emotional relationships between herself and both Addie and Gavin. I found the budding friendship with Gavin's daughter, Lily, to be enjoyable and very sweet. This feel-good story and happily ever after just makes you want to bundle up, grab a hot cocoa and find these wonderful characters this Christmas season!
Thank you, NetGalley and Revell for this eARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions of this book are solely my own.
A lot has happened back home in the years that Madison was away teaching in Mongolia. Her Dad and Grandmother have both passed on and her sister, Addie, is holding down the fort with the McDowell Family Christmas Tree Farm, which Madison is now the co-owner of. When she returns to the home where they spent their childhood summers, she is also faced with seeing the destruction of a wildfire that damaged many of the nearby farms and part of her own. She feels emotional and remembers her grandmother's words just before she passed away. She told Madison in a letter that they were blessed and that God spared them for a reason.
Madison's return home was a surprise to her sister and seemed to be an unwelcome one. She soon finds out that Addie has every intention of selling the farm but Madison wants to hang on to their roots and digs her heels in deep. She plans to make the current season a success so that Addie will change her mind, even if she has to do it all on her own. She also learns that her teenage ex-boyfriend, Gavin, is back and now owns the destroyed hazelnut farm next door. She is horrified to learn that he plans to build a dirt bike destination for his young daughter, Lily, right next to their tree farm!
This may be considered a novella but I have to say, there is so much packed in this beautiful story! We see Madison struggle not only with trying to help the farm succeed but also with the emotional relationships between herself and both Addie and Gavin. I found the budding friendship with Gavin's daughter, Lily, to be enjoyable and very sweet. This feel-good story and happily ever after just makes you want to bundle up, grab a hot cocoa and find these wonderful characters this Christmas season!
Thank you, NetGalley and Revell for this eARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions of this book are solely my own.
October 3, 2024
Madison McDowell comes home from teaching abroad to work on her family's Christmas tree farm in Oregon. She is part owner of the farm with her sister Addie. She doesn't count on Addie wanting to sell the farm, or her first love, Gavin, being widowed and living next door with his youngest daughter.
I wanted to read The Christmas Tree Farm because I love Melody Carlson's Christmas novels. I try to read them each year.
This novel was one of my favorite of Ms. Carlson's recent Christmas books. I loved the setting of the Christmas tree farm and the old fashioned house there.
I also really liked the cast of characters - especially Madison, who loves working outdoors and is determined to make the Christmas tree farm a community fixture again. I also liked Gavin, who is sweet and a bit eccentric (he lives in a trailer by the lake while building a house). His daughter Lily, an 11 year old dirt bike enthusiast, is delightful. Part of the conflict early on is based on Gavin and Lily building a dirt bike track on their property - right next door to the Christmas tree farm.
I highly recommend The Christmas Tree Farm for fans of Christmas reads, picturesque holiday settings, and heartwarming storytelling!
I wanted to read The Christmas Tree Farm because I love Melody Carlson's Christmas novels. I try to read them each year.
This novel was one of my favorite of Ms. Carlson's recent Christmas books. I loved the setting of the Christmas tree farm and the old fashioned house there.
I also really liked the cast of characters - especially Madison, who loves working outdoors and is determined to make the Christmas tree farm a community fixture again. I also liked Gavin, who is sweet and a bit eccentric (he lives in a trailer by the lake while building a house). His daughter Lily, an 11 year old dirt bike enthusiast, is delightful. Part of the conflict early on is based on Gavin and Lily building a dirt bike track on their property - right next door to the Christmas tree farm.
I highly recommend The Christmas Tree Farm for fans of Christmas reads, picturesque holiday settings, and heartwarming storytelling!
October 25, 2024
Maddison returns home from teaching overseas after a fire and death of her grandmother to try to save her family’s Christmas tree farm. The farm was left to Maddison and her sister Addison but she doesn’t have any desire to put any work into trying to fix it up and just wants to sell it. Maddison really wants to try to turn a profit this year and make a go at saving the farm. Her former high school flame also moves back to the adjoining property after his wife has passed away and he too is trying to reinvent his property with the help of his 9 year old daughter Lilly.
Melody Carlson knows how to write a Christmas Story! I always look forward to reading her books! The cover of this one is just so cute!
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Thank you to Baker Publishing for an advanced copy! It’s available now anywhere you get your books!
Melody Carlson knows how to write a Christmas Story! I always look forward to reading her books! The cover of this one is just so cute!
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Thank you to Baker Publishing for an advanced copy! It’s available now anywhere you get your books!
August 11, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Revell for the ARC of The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson.
Madison returns home to her family’s Christmas tree farm following the passing of her grandmother. After spending years in Mongolia teaching with who she thought was the man of her dreams. Madison and Addie have inherited the farm bringing Madison home after wild fires ripped through the town but spare the farm.
Addison does not share the same affinity for the farm as her sister and they are at odds. Maybe if Madison can restore the farm and the memories Addison will come around.
With the challenge of reviving her history and memories also comes the first boy she’s ever loved. Coming back to shift through the burn zone and rebuild his family following the loss of his wife. When Gavin sees Madison the sparks are still there. Addison also feels the sparks but not between Madison and Gavin; she’s been pining for Gavin since she was a preteen. Madison’s homecoming has proven to be a barrier and not well received.
This was a cute quick holiday read. A good way to start the holiday season. I can honestly say I have never disliked a character as much as I disliked Addison. The entire book her bratty attitude had me hoping Madison would grab her and shake her. Her snotty entitled attitude really got to me. Overall I really liked the book however, I feel like the end was extremely rushed and almost incomplete. I wish there were a couple of more chapters to work through the ending.
Pub Date: September 3, 2024
🌟🌟🌟.5
November 7, 2024
Cute story but felt very rushed pulling everything together at the end. This would have served better with about 100 more pages because the story was great and I really enjoyed it, but felt like I had whiplash in the last 30 pages.
Read
November 9, 2024DNF
Reads like a hallmark movie.
Reads like a hallmark movie.
November 18, 2024
A short and sweet Christmas novella about a Christmas tree farm and handsome neighbor coming between two sisters who need to overcome their rocky relationship through communication and sisterly love. The Christmas Tree Farm is sprinkled with faith and a light read perfect for getting in the Christmas season.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
✝️
💋
15+
September 6, 2024
Oh how my heart adores a warm, predictable Christmas story about saving the family Christmas business! I will never not read them. This one is as exactly what I wanted. Such a fun little read!
September 24, 2024
Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The problem, or rather, one of several problems, with this novella, is that it is a novella. 🫠
But let's start with what I liked about it: I love the behind-the-scenes of a Christmas tree farm, the problems of meeting deadlines, the care of the plants and the cosy atmosphere that goes with it. And this little book satisfies all my curiosities. 🥰
That's it. This is the only thing I liked and it breaks my heart to say it. 😭
There's just too much: the (immature, in my opinion) conflict between the two sisters, which is resolved in a few lines at the end without the slightest insight; the one between Madison and her neighbour, which starts with a disagreement over the use of the neighbouring land as a motocross track, but turns out to be rooted in the past, because he is her ex, now widowed and with two daughters, who was her first and only teenage love, of which NO ONE knew anything about (including Madison's sister, a despicable character in her jealousy and immaturity from start to finish), which ended in a way that is not clear why, and which, of course, is resolved with the typical marriage proposal that comes out of nowhere. Miscommunication at its worst, indeed.
[No, that's not a spoiler: Hallmark Christmas Movie-style books like this one all end this way. 😅]
Now, if this had been a 300-350 page novel, there would have been plenty of time to deepen things and maybe make them a bit more mature in their development - in the sense that the characters, as adults, should behave as such, but no, they're stuck in high school days (except for his youngest daughter, who I think is nine or so, and who talks like she's 30 💀). Characters who, by the way, are not only stereotyped, but remain flat throughout the novel: they do not change. Nada, nisba, nothing. And I hear you say: "Of course, there is no room for them to grow". Well, then a novella is not the right format for this particular story, because then it becomes frustrating for the reader. It lacks a natural and satisfying closure, it lacks depth, it lacks everything.
And I'm really sorry, because I wanted to love it. I really did.
| ITALIANO
Ringrazio Revell e NetGalley per avermi permesso di leggerlo in anteprima in cambio di una recensione onesta.
Il problema, o meglio, uno dei diversi problemi di questa novella, è che è una novella. 🫠
Ma iniziamo con quello che mi è piaciuto: adoro il dietro le quinte di una "Christmas tree farm", i problemi che deve affrontare per rispettare le scadenze, la cura delle piante e l'ambientazione cosy che ne deriva. E questo libricino soddisfa tutte le mie curiosità. 🥰
Fine. Questa è l'unica cosa che mi è piaciuta e mi si spezza il cuore. 😭
C'è troppa, tantissima carne al fuoco: il conflitto (immaturo, a mio parere) tra le due sorelle, che viene liquidato in poche righe alla fine senza un minimo di approfondimento; quello tra Madison e il vicino, che inizia con un disaccordo sull'utilizzo del terreno confinante come pista da motocross, ma si scopre affondare le radici indietro nel tempo, perché si tratta del suo ex, ora vedovo e con due figlie, che è stato il suo primo e unico amore adolescenziale, di cui NESSUNO sapeva niente (compresa la sorella di Madison, un personaggio spregevole nella sua gelosia e immaturità dall'inizio alla fine), finito non si capisce bene perché e che, ovviamente, si risolve con la tipica proposta di matrimonio arrivata dal nulla. Miscommunication at its worst, proprio.
[No, non è uno spoiler: i libri stile Hallmark Christmas Movie come questo finiscono tutti così. 😅]
Ora, se fosse stato un romanzo di 300-350 pagine ci sarebbe stato tutto il tempo per approfondire le cose e magari renderle un po' più mature nel loro sviluppo – nel senso che i personaggi, in quanto adulti, dovrebbero comportarsi come tali ma no, qui sono rimasti fermi ai tempi delle superiori (tranne la figlia più piccola di lui, che mi pare abbia nove anni o giù di lì, e che parla come se ne avesse 30 💀).
Personaggi che, tra l'altro, non solo sono macchiette stereotipate, ma rimangono piatti per tutta la durata della novella: non cambiano. Nada, nisba, niente. E direte voi, lo credo: non c'è lo spazio per farli crescere. E allora non si scrive una novella, o se lo si fa bisogna trovare la storia adatta per questo formato, perché poi diventa frustrante per chi legge. Manca di una chiusura naturale e soddisfacente, manca di profondità, manca di tutto.
E mi dispiace davvero tanto, perché avrei voluto amarla.
The problem, or rather, one of several problems, with this novella, is that it is a novella. 🫠
But let's start with what I liked about it: I love the behind-the-scenes of a Christmas tree farm, the problems of meeting deadlines, the care of the plants and the cosy atmosphere that goes with it. And this little book satisfies all my curiosities. 🥰
That's it. This is the only thing I liked and it breaks my heart to say it. 😭
There's just too much: the (immature, in my opinion) conflict between the two sisters, which is resolved in a few lines at the end without the slightest insight; the one between Madison and her neighbour, which starts with a disagreement over the use of the neighbouring land as a motocross track, but turns out to be rooted in the past, because he is her ex, now widowed and with two daughters, who was her first and only teenage love, of which NO ONE knew anything about (including Madison's sister, a despicable character in her jealousy and immaturity from start to finish), which ended in a way that is not clear why, and which, of course, is resolved with the typical marriage proposal that comes out of nowhere. Miscommunication at its worst, indeed.
[No, that's not a spoiler: Hallmark Christmas Movie-style books like this one all end this way. 😅]
Now, if this had been a 300-350 page novel, there would have been plenty of time to deepen things and maybe make them a bit more mature in their development - in the sense that the characters, as adults, should behave as such, but no, they're stuck in high school days (except for his youngest daughter, who I think is nine or so, and who talks like she's 30 💀). Characters who, by the way, are not only stereotyped, but remain flat throughout the novel: they do not change. Nada, nisba, nothing. And I hear you say: "Of course, there is no room for them to grow". Well, then a novella is not the right format for this particular story, because then it becomes frustrating for the reader. It lacks a natural and satisfying closure, it lacks depth, it lacks everything.
And I'm really sorry, because I wanted to love it. I really did.
| ITALIANO
Ringrazio Revell e NetGalley per avermi permesso di leggerlo in anteprima in cambio di una recensione onesta.
Il problema, o meglio, uno dei diversi problemi di questa novella, è che è una novella. 🫠
Ma iniziamo con quello che mi è piaciuto: adoro il dietro le quinte di una "Christmas tree farm", i problemi che deve affrontare per rispettare le scadenze, la cura delle piante e l'ambientazione cosy che ne deriva. E questo libricino soddisfa tutte le mie curiosità. 🥰
Fine. Questa è l'unica cosa che mi è piaciuta e mi si spezza il cuore. 😭
C'è troppa, tantissima carne al fuoco: il conflitto (immaturo, a mio parere) tra le due sorelle, che viene liquidato in poche righe alla fine senza un minimo di approfondimento; quello tra Madison e il vicino, che inizia con un disaccordo sull'utilizzo del terreno confinante come pista da motocross, ma si scopre affondare le radici indietro nel tempo, perché si tratta del suo ex, ora vedovo e con due figlie, che è stato il suo primo e unico amore adolescenziale, di cui NESSUNO sapeva niente (compresa la sorella di Madison, un personaggio spregevole nella sua gelosia e immaturità dall'inizio alla fine), finito non si capisce bene perché e che, ovviamente, si risolve con la tipica proposta di matrimonio arrivata dal nulla. Miscommunication at its worst, proprio.
[No, non è uno spoiler: i libri stile Hallmark Christmas Movie come questo finiscono tutti così. 😅]
Ora, se fosse stato un romanzo di 300-350 pagine ci sarebbe stato tutto il tempo per approfondire le cose e magari renderle un po' più mature nel loro sviluppo – nel senso che i personaggi, in quanto adulti, dovrebbero comportarsi come tali ma no, qui sono rimasti fermi ai tempi delle superiori (tranne la figlia più piccola di lui, che mi pare abbia nove anni o giù di lì, e che parla come se ne avesse 30 💀).
Personaggi che, tra l'altro, non solo sono macchiette stereotipate, ma rimangono piatti per tutta la durata della novella: non cambiano. Nada, nisba, niente. E direte voi, lo credo: non c'è lo spazio per farli crescere. E allora non si scrive una novella, o se lo si fa bisogna trovare la storia adatta per questo formato, perché poi diventa frustrante per chi legge. Manca di una chiusura naturale e soddisfacente, manca di profondità, manca di tutto.
E mi dispiace davvero tanto, perché avrei voluto amarla.
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