Christmas novella focuses on the Christiansen parents

John and Ingrid Christiansen have become empty nest parents as the last of six children leaves to start their adult life.  With the prospect of being alone during the holidays, John plans a trip to Europe as a Christmas gift for Ingrid.  However, she is still reeling from events that have occurred in her family as well as the children starting their own lives that she now must decide how to perceive her current world–as an ending or a beginning.

I love the Christiansens, but this was a hard story to read.  From Susan May Warren’s previous books in the Deep Haven and Christiansen Family series, I never suspected that deep sadness and pain was a part of their lives (or I may have missed some books).  As it turns out, Ingrid has carried around a secret disappointment for a long time.

I would like to say that “Evergreen” is a heart-warming Christmas story, but after reading so many of the other books in the series, I was saddened that John and Ingrid were struggling in their marriage.  John was completely unaware of Ingrid’s feelings and thought that his attempt to bring her joy with a trip to Europe would bring romance back into their marriage.  Some gestures, no matter how extravagant or well intended, just don’t work on everyone.  It is a lesson for us all to learn.

Once again, Warren has outdone herself.  This stay in Deep Haven, though short, brings excitement to the Christmas season even in the midst of pain.  Any time there is a Christiansen involved, there is a surprise lurking nearby.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”