Wrapped Up in Christmas Joy

I live on a fixed income so I only alot so much for books but when I read this book’s blurb I knew I had to read it. I busted my budget but I am so glad I did. A broken soldier receives a quilt with a letter that put a small flicker of hope in his deep depression. When he is well enough he goes off to find the quilter. This story made me smile, sigh and cry and put a little light of hope in my depression. Thank you, Janice Lynn!

In typical Hallmark fashion Janice Lynn’s book WRAPPED UP IN CHRISTMAS tugs at the heart strings.

Main character Sarah Smith passionately donates her time and energy in service to her community and church. Among other service projects, she continues her family’s tradition of making quilts for servicemen and donating them to the Quilts of Valor Foundation. When the recipient of one of these quilts arrives in her small Kentucky town to thank her, Sarah comes to understand the life-changing benefit of her handiwork.

Bodie Lewis, the soldier whose life was changed by Sarah’s quilt, wants nothing more than to show his gratitude to the quilt-maker and then to start a new life as a civilian. However, Sarah and Bodie predictably become wrapped up in a relationship that eventually leads to a healing of both their wounds.

In WRAPPED UP IN CHRISTMAS, Janice Lynn has cleverly designed a poignant patchwork of storylines that revolve around house renovations, the military, dogs, Christmas traditions, and even a recipe for cinnamon swirl bread.

The author blends a sweet Southern dialogue with descriptive prose. Her main characters’ compassion for others coupled with the good-natured shenanigans of a group of elderly women known as the Butterflies make this book a delightful read.

For anyone who appreciates wholesome family values, friendships, Christmas traditions, and the military, this book will not disappoint.

This was a sweet, predictable story for those who love Hallmark movies. The hero, Bodie Lewis, is suffering from survivor’s guilt when all of his platoon was killed by a roadside bomb. Bodie’s wounds were so extensive that it was unlikely that he would be able to walk again…and he didn’t care. When he was presented a Quilt of Valor while in the hospital, he read the attached note thanking him for his part in keeping America safe. The quilt and the the woman who made it inspired him to work to overcome his injuries. After leaving the hospital he travels to the small town of the quilter to thank the “sweet little old lady” who made the quilt. Of course, he was surprised that Sarah Smith is a young, beautiful woman. The story plays out as all Hallmark movies do…happily ever after. While predictable, the story is enjoyable although the “Butterflies” got on my nerves a bit. I absolutely loved Harry the Dog!

I loved loved loved this book. Ms. Lynn spins a wonderful Christmas tale of selfless caring for ones friends, family and community. Sarah gives her all to everyone who comes into her orbit. When Bodie arrives in town he turns Sarah’s little world upside down. He is there only to say thank you but Sarah gives him something he has never. really had, a place to belong and to help others. I loved the sense of community in this small Kentucky town where Christmas is in everyone’s heart. Sarah and Bodie have struggles to face. Bodie has to open his heart to the overpowering love coming to him from all those around him . Can he wrap up a very special Christmas present with the special gift Sarah so selflessly made to help heal his broken soul ? Enjoy!

This is a totally charming Christmas story about a young woman named Sarah who doesnt trust easily and a veteran returning from the war who doesnt trust at all. Bodie received a Quilt of Valor from Sarah who lives in the small town of Pine Hill and is first mission when he is healed enough to get around is to go there and thank the woman who gave him back a desire to live. The discovery that the woman who made the quilt is about his age threw Bodie for a loop but he sticks around town to help Sarah do repairs and to claim her dream of having a Bed and Breakfast in memory of her beloved aunt. The story was lovely, with multiple glimpses of how this little town celebrated Christmas and with the very humorous addition of four elderly ladies who are like Sarahs fairy godmothers. Nicknamed the Butterflies, these ladies also added wisdom to the story, the wisdom that only comes with age and experience. The way the author drew me into the story was with the vet who was hurting so badly that he had lost his purpose in life. There are several bonuses at the end of the book, including a pattern for a Quilt of Valor that anyone can make and donate. I loved this book and think that it is the perfect addition to your holiday to-be-read list because of its heart-warming story and lovable, quirky characters.
Disclaimer
I purchased a copy of this book from Amazon and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Galaxyaudiobook Member Benefit

- Able to comment

- List watched audiobooks

- List favorite audiobooks

- Bookmark will only available for Galaxyaudiobook member