I have to admit that the cover is what drew me to Christmas at Harrington's. I absolutely love everything about Christmas. The cover depicts a snowy scene in what appears to be the main street in a small town. The street is decorated for Christmas; there is a beautifully decked out store window display. Pictured is a woman wearing what looks like a coat Santa might don, admiring the window display. It's such a warm and inviting scene; I couldn't wait to start the book.

Right from the start, I had an interest in the unfolding story. Melody Carlson does an excellent job in developing the characters. I came to feel a connection to the main character, Lena who is looking for a second chance. She is, according to the back of the book, "penniless, friendless, and nearly hopeless." In spite of this, Lena goes out of her way to do for others and is always grateful for what she does have. Throughout the story,
Lena is trying to escape from a past that she does not wish to share with her new friends but she just can't seem to leave it behind. Just when Lena thinks things are looking up for her, her past reappears.

The little details in the book make it unforgettable. For example, Lena has a small amount of money on which she needs to rely for a period of time, yet she is willing to share it with others to make them happy. The acts of kindness throughout the book are heartwarming. Christmas at Harrington's is written in the true spirit of Christmas. The themes of faith, hope, and love are present throughout. I don't want to spoil the story, but there is something really wonderful about a story with a happy ending even if it is a bit predictable, especially a story that is set around Christmastime. I guess it wouldn't be a real Christmas story without a happy ending, would it?

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