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The Christmas Spirit
Two lifelong friends decide to trade places the week before Christmas and end up finding love along the way in this delightful novel from the queen of holiday stories, #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax are best friends, but their lives couldn't be more different. Peter, the local pastor who is dedicated to his community, spending time visiting the flock, attending meetings, and, with the holiday season approaching, preparing for the Christmas service and live nativity. As a bartender, Hank serves a much different customer base at his family-owned tavern, including a handful of lonely regulars and the local biker gang.
When Peter scoffs that Hank has it easy compared to him, the two decide to switch jobs until Christmas Eve. To their surprise, the responsibilities of a bartender and a pastor are similar, but taking on the other's work is more difficult than either Peter or Hank expected. As the two begin to see each other in a new light--and each discovers a new love to cherish--their lives are forever changed.
In The Christmas Spirit, Debbie Macomber celebrates the true meaning of the holidays and the inclusive community spirit that binds us all.
Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax are best friends, but their lives couldn't be more different. Peter, the local pastor who is dedicated to his community, spending time visiting the flock, attending meetings, and, with the holiday season approaching, preparing for the Christmas service and live nativity. As a bartender, Hank serves a much different customer base at his family-owned tavern, including a handful of lonely regulars and the local biker gang.
When Peter scoffs that Hank has it easy compared to him, the two decide to switch jobs until Christmas Eve. To their surprise, the responsibilities of a bartender and a pastor are similar, but taking on the other's work is more difficult than either Peter or Hank expected. As the two begin to see each other in a new light--and each discovers a new love to cherish--their lives are forever changed.
In The Christmas Spirit, Debbie Macomber celebrates the true meaning of the holidays and the inclusive community spirit that binds us all.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2022
About the author
Debbie Macomber
842 books19.3k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,593 reviews
December 3, 2022
Many readers enjoyed this story, my view is obviously an outlier.
I rather read an extra cheesy romantic predictable holiday story. This book starts with Nana telling her young grandchildren a bedtime story about two friends a priest and a bar owner trading places before Christmas.
Set in Bridgeport, WA, there are colorful characters added into the mix, not DM traditional casts like a local biker gang and strippers. I didn't really connect with anyone so it was a meh for me.
On the positive side, this is a quick audiobook (5:25hr), and the narrator, Eliza Foss was good. It was an easy and enjoyable listen.
I rather read an extra cheesy romantic predictable holiday story. This book starts with Nana telling her young grandchildren a bedtime story about two friends a priest and a bar owner trading places before Christmas.
Set in Bridgeport, WA, there are colorful characters added into the mix, not DM traditional casts like a local biker gang and strippers. I didn't really connect with anyone so it was a meh for me.
On the positive side, this is a quick audiobook (5:25hr), and the narrator, Eliza Foss was good. It was an easy and enjoyable listen.
October 17, 2022
Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax are best friends living very different lives. They have been friends forever, but both believe the other has it easier than he does. So naturally they decided to switch lives the week before Christmas. Peter is a local pastor and Hank is a bartender. Both interact with the public, both must be good listeners, and both are so wrong about how easy the other has it work wise. When the switch places, they learn more about each other and themselves. Plus, along the way, each finds love.
I enjoyed Debbie Macomber books but don't read them very often for some reason. I’ll need to change that. This book reminded me what I enjoy about her writing. She writes likeable characters that I grow to care about. She also writes about community, coming together and helping others. All the things that put a smile on my face.
This was a charming tale which begins and ends with a grandmother telling a story to her grandchildren. It was sweet and full of good cheer! If you are looking for a lighter book that can easily be read in one day, this may be for you.
#TheChristmasSpirit #NetGalley
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
I enjoyed Debbie Macomber books but don't read them very often for some reason. I’ll need to change that. This book reminded me what I enjoy about her writing. She writes likeable characters that I grow to care about. She also writes about community, coming together and helping others. All the things that put a smile on my face.
This was a charming tale which begins and ends with a grandmother telling a story to her grandchildren. It was sweet and full of good cheer! If you are looking for a lighter book that can easily be read in one day, this may be for you.
#TheChristmasSpirit #NetGalley
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
October 14, 2022
The queen of Christmas books has just DELIVERED an amazing story once again!!! Debbie Macomber is my go to author for Christmas stories. Debbie Macomber, thank you so much for this beautiful, heart touching story. The Christmas Spirit is absolutely no exception and not a story you want to pass up this Christmas season. Debbie has a way of connecting her readers with the characters in this amazing story. I felt like every character in this book had a piece of my heart. When I saw that Debbie was coming out with another Christmas book, I knew I had to run to this one, only because I have loved her past Christmas books. I'm so happy I got to read this book because it was so beautiful, and I loved every single minute of it. I was hooked from the very first page, and I couldn't put it down until the very end. Please do yourself a favor a pick up a copy of this book, a cozy blanket, and a cup of hot chocolate/tea and don't move until you finish. The Christmas Spirit celebrates the true meaning of the holidays.
THANK YOU RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING GROUP-BALLANTINE AND NETGALLEY FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK!!!!!
Hank Colfax and Peter Armstrong have been best friends since elementary school, and are still the very best friends till this day. But their lives couldn't be more different. Hank is a bartender at his family owned tavern, The Last Call. Peter is a local pastor who is very dedicated to his community, but also very dedicated to his faith. Peter isn't the type of person who will judge you if you don't attend church, or if you don't believe in God, but he will be the type of person who opens his arms for anyone, if you ever need a listening ear, Peter is the type of person who you should go to. Peter spends his time attending meetings, and being by their side for those in need. But with the holiday season approaching, Peter is preparing for the Christmas service and live nativity. But, as a bartender Hank serves a much different crowd, including those who are lonely during the Christmas season and the local biker gang.
When Peter voices his opinion that Hank has it easier compared to him, the two best friends decide to switch jobs until Christmas Eve. To Hank and Peter's surprise, the responsibilities of both pastor and bartender are similar, but much more difficult than either of them expected. Peter has given Hank a list of everything that needs to be tend to around the church community. As Peter starts his bartender job he realizes he can't keep up with Hank's speed and all the customers realize that and start getting antsy. As Hank takes over Peter's job he realizes he will be working with Peter's sister, Grace Ann. Hank had a crush on Grace Ann in high school, but Hank realizes Grace isn't the same girl she was back in high school, she is more stubborn. Hank likes to get under Grace's skin, and wonders why she changed so much. Both Hank and Peter love Mom's Place which is their favorite restaurant, but Peter is instantly drawn to one of the waitresses, Millie.
Peter has a huge crush on Millie, and thinks she's so beautiful. One night when Peter is working as a bartender, the local biker gang decides to test his patience and puts him up against the dart board and throws darts past him, but the person who comes to rescue Peter is Millie, the beautiful waitress. Peter and Millie start talking, and Peter learns about Millie's story. Millie works at Toy's Dancers, which is a strip club, but she got fired for slapping a clientele. Millie got pregnant at the age of eighteen, but miscarried in her third month, Millie's family made it clear that she wasn't welcome back into the family after she got pregnant at such a young age. After getting fired from the strip club, Millie is looking for a new job, and Peter could use the help at the tavern. Peter believes Millie would be such great help, but he must run the idea past Hank first.
As Hank and Peter begin to see each other's lives in a new light, and each of them discover a new love to cherish, their lives are changed forever. I absolutely adored Hank and Peter's friendship. The Christmas Spirit is honestly my favorite Christmas book so far this year. I choose to read this book in July because, hello Christmas in July is the best, but the hot and humid weather is kicking my butt, so this book made me miss the winter weather already. I love how Peter and Hank didn't even argue about switching jobs, they didn't even have to think twice about it. All in all I just loved this book so so much!!!! This story made my heart swell, and I don't think I'll ever find another Christmas story like this one. After learning about Millie's story, my heart broke for her, but I was cheering her on as she pulled through this difficult time in her life. I loved how all the characters came together during the holiday season and helped each other out.
THANK YOU RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING GROUP-BALLANTINE AND NETGALLEY FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK!!!!!
Hank Colfax and Peter Armstrong have been best friends since elementary school, and are still the very best friends till this day. But their lives couldn't be more different. Hank is a bartender at his family owned tavern, The Last Call. Peter is a local pastor who is very dedicated to his community, but also very dedicated to his faith. Peter isn't the type of person who will judge you if you don't attend church, or if you don't believe in God, but he will be the type of person who opens his arms for anyone, if you ever need a listening ear, Peter is the type of person who you should go to. Peter spends his time attending meetings, and being by their side for those in need. But with the holiday season approaching, Peter is preparing for the Christmas service and live nativity. But, as a bartender Hank serves a much different crowd, including those who are lonely during the Christmas season and the local biker gang.
When Peter voices his opinion that Hank has it easier compared to him, the two best friends decide to switch jobs until Christmas Eve. To Hank and Peter's surprise, the responsibilities of both pastor and bartender are similar, but much more difficult than either of them expected. Peter has given Hank a list of everything that needs to be tend to around the church community. As Peter starts his bartender job he realizes he can't keep up with Hank's speed and all the customers realize that and start getting antsy. As Hank takes over Peter's job he realizes he will be working with Peter's sister, Grace Ann. Hank had a crush on Grace Ann in high school, but Hank realizes Grace isn't the same girl she was back in high school, she is more stubborn. Hank likes to get under Grace's skin, and wonders why she changed so much. Both Hank and Peter love Mom's Place which is their favorite restaurant, but Peter is instantly drawn to one of the waitresses, Millie.
Peter has a huge crush on Millie, and thinks she's so beautiful. One night when Peter is working as a bartender, the local biker gang decides to test his patience and puts him up against the dart board and throws darts past him, but the person who comes to rescue Peter is Millie, the beautiful waitress. Peter and Millie start talking, and Peter learns about Millie's story. Millie works at Toy's Dancers, which is a strip club, but she got fired for slapping a clientele. Millie got pregnant at the age of eighteen, but miscarried in her third month, Millie's family made it clear that she wasn't welcome back into the family after she got pregnant at such a young age. After getting fired from the strip club, Millie is looking for a new job, and Peter could use the help at the tavern. Peter believes Millie would be such great help, but he must run the idea past Hank first.
As Hank and Peter begin to see each other's lives in a new light, and each of them discover a new love to cherish, their lives are changed forever. I absolutely adored Hank and Peter's friendship. The Christmas Spirit is honestly my favorite Christmas book so far this year. I choose to read this book in July because, hello Christmas in July is the best, but the hot and humid weather is kicking my butt, so this book made me miss the winter weather already. I love how Peter and Hank didn't even argue about switching jobs, they didn't even have to think twice about it. All in all I just loved this book so so much!!!! This story made my heart swell, and I don't think I'll ever find another Christmas story like this one. After learning about Millie's story, my heart broke for her, but I was cheering her on as she pulled through this difficult time in her life. I loved how all the characters came together during the holiday season and helped each other out.
October 26, 2022
This is a Christmas Women's Fiction/Romance. I love the way this book was told because this is told by a Grandmother telling this story to her Grandchild. I felt that was a cute way to do this book. The story itself is great and it is a fun story. I think this book shows the real meaning behind Christmas. I really loved the characters, and there were so many different types of characters. The ending was so great. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Ballantine Books) or author (Debbie Macomber) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
December 15, 2022
When a pastor and a barkeep switch places for a few days, they discover the upsides and downsides of each other's profession. Each assumes the other has it pretty easy but they quickly learn of challenges they never imagined. I liked the peek into each life, as it isn't just a job, but really an occupation that extends into your life beyond traditional working hours. The secondary characters also demonstrated another way where occupation and lifestyle impacts but does not define individuals. All the characters remind that we truly don't know what someone is experiencing or who they really are until we walk a mile in their shoes. I didn't care for how the story was framed by telling it to grandkids; it would have stood well on its own and not lost any of its impact.
I prefer brighter, more festive Christmas stories but this did one did have a nice resolution of bringing people together for Christmas and community with a double dose of romance to soften the rough edges.
I prefer brighter, more festive Christmas stories but this did one did have a nice resolution of bringing people together for Christmas and community with a double dose of romance to soften the rough edges.
November 7, 2022
In THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT, a grandmother is telling a Christmas story to her two grandchildren about two men who decide to switch places for a week, each believing that the other has it easy in their line of work. Peter is a local pastor and Hank runs a bar frequented by bikers. They are both in for quite a surprise. This Christian romance had a fun cast of characters between bikers, church ladies, girls who worked at the strip club, Peter’s uptight sister, a runaway mule, and more. 4/5 stars.
December 23, 2022
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another one of Debbie Macomber’s warm hearted, fun loving Christmas stories I always enjoy reading at this time of year.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another one of Debbie Macomber’s warm hearted, fun loving Christmas stories I always enjoy reading at this time of year.
January 6, 2023
I absolutely love Debbie Macomber's Christmas books!! This one had all the things I love...cozy, Christmas spirit, great location, and characters. The premise was really unique and fun!
I did think it was too short to really sell the story.
I would happily recommend this book looking for a sweet Christmas read!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Debbie Macomber, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
I did think it was too short to really sell the story.
I would happily recommend this book looking for a sweet Christmas read!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Debbie Macomber, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
October 14, 2022
Debbie Macomber is a wonderful storyteller, especially in spinning a Christmas tale that touches the heart of her readers. A grandmother spends some special time with her two young grandchildren telling a true story about two friends. I found myself smiling as this unusual story unfolds when two friends since childhood, Peter, a pastor, and his friend, Hank, a tavern owner, switch places the week before Christmas. Both have eye opening experiences and make some friends they never would have before, all in the spirit of Christ's love during the holiday season. We are reminded to love people as Christ loves all, no matter the way they look or act. In the process, Hank and Peter make some lifelong friends out of their usual network and romance is involved. This is heartwarming with how love can touch a heart and change people for the better, even while I gasped at times with the rough edges of some of the characters. Surprisingly, Hank, the tavern owner, had some poignant and applicable stories from the Bible to remind us of how Jesus associated with sinners and how He loved all.
I received a complimentary copy from Ballentine Books and NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts are mine only.
I received a complimentary copy from Ballentine Books and NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All thoughts are mine only.
October 18, 2022
Refreshing and heartwarming!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is aptly named because it made my spirit soar too! I just love the way the author crafted this story. It is a unique and delightful blend of Christian romance and women’s fiction. A feel-good Christmas story that makes us a bit humble and lets us have a few laughs too.
I don’t know how many Macomber stories I have read, but so many of them have struck a chord with me. She knows how to get to the heart of the story and burrow right into your soul. This one is the perfect example.
Fun and heartwarming, The Christmas Spirit is a wonderful way to kick off your holiday romance reads this year!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-christma...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is aptly named because it made my spirit soar too! I just love the way the author crafted this story. It is a unique and delightful blend of Christian romance and women’s fiction. A feel-good Christmas story that makes us a bit humble and lets us have a few laughs too.
I don’t know how many Macomber stories I have read, but so many of them have struck a chord with me. She knows how to get to the heart of the story and burrow right into your soul. This one is the perfect example.
Fun and heartwarming, The Christmas Spirit is a wonderful way to kick off your holiday romance reads this year!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-christma...
October 27, 2022
This is another sweet and light Christmas story by Debbie Macomber. It is full of the Christmas spirit. The thought of a pastor changing jobs with a bartender is intriguing. In both professions, they get a chance to meet people with problems who might need some help.
I don't think the premise of a grandmother reading the story to her grandkids is really needed, and it's a bit predictable. However, that doesn't matter in the long run because this book has everything you would want in a feel-good Christmas story, and more that you didn't expect.
Fans of holiday romance and cheer should pick this one up.
I received a free copy of this from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
I don't think the premise of a grandmother reading the story to her grandkids is really needed, and it's a bit predictable. However, that doesn't matter in the long run because this book has everything you would want in a feel-good Christmas story, and more that you didn't expect.
Fans of holiday romance and cheer should pick this one up.
I received a free copy of this from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
September 29, 2024
I really really liked this!
A perfect Christmas spirit book.
A pastor and a bar tender are friends and they decide to switch places for a week before Christmas.
It was funny, sweet, great message, and fast paced!
No language, only kissing, highly recommend!
A perfect Christmas spirit book.
A pastor and a bar tender are friends and they decide to switch places for a week before Christmas.
It was funny, sweet, great message, and fast paced!
No language, only kissing, highly recommend!
July 11, 2022
Pete and Hank have been friends since their school days, despite taking different paths. Pete attended seminary and became a pastor, and Hank took over the family's bar. The week before Christmas, they decided to switch jobs, each thinking he is getting the easier option. A biker gang and an escaped mule are only part of their surprises.Pete's self-righteous sister Grace is the church secretary who disapproves of just about everything. Ironically, she was the one who seemed most like the kind of person who fills many churches. Debbie's one of my favorite authors for her romances with a touch of humor, but this book seemed almost like a fantasy world, where the Ladies Missionary Society reaches out to strippers, and a friendly, down to earth man is attracted to a woman whose holier than thou attitude was almost unbearable.. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 16, 2022
I need to rant because this book boiled my blood! It's chaos. ... ... I like the premise of the story - 2 friends from childhood days, even tho they took different paths, a bar owner & a pastor, they are still best friends. They decide to swap places for the week leading up to Christmas. Each brings their own insight and helpfulness to their "new" positions. That portion of the story was great, I enjoyed both Hank and Pete and how they grew to be better men in just that week.
What I did not enjoy and found so totally inappropriate is HOW this story is told ... Nana is telling a bedtime story to her little grandchildren, 6 and 8 years old, and this, swapping places, is the bedtime story she tells ?!?! - There are drugs, a bad biker gang called Hell's Outlaws, strippers (mentioned a lot; and seriously, author, you don't even respect these women and call them ladies, you refer to them only as "the strippers" at every single mention!!), pastor has the hots for the strip club waitress, lots of beer, a trucker drowns his troubles in some beer and 30 minutes later is back on the road (awesome, drinking and driving) ... ... and more ...
I would have liked this so much more if it just stuck to the story about redemption and not judging a person, and if it was not told by Nana with young children involved ...
"What's a strip club?" Lily (6 yrs) asked ...
"It's where women undress for men" ...
WTH. Seriously, how did Macomber think it appropriate to share this info with a 6 year old? And, if you read the story, it is not Nana's place to enlighten the children with this story, leave it to the parents! I have a child, and this is not an age appropriate bedtime story regardless of the "history". And yes, I read the entire story, I see the valuable life lessons here, I put the pieces together and "know" who the people are, I got it. But for me, it doesn't matter the good outcomes and opportunities to put yourself in another's shoes, including the young children absolutely ruined it for me.
Also, do some research. One can not just willy-nilly move a billiards table and slide it out of the way for a Christmas tree. 🙄. Okay, okay, so now I'm just nitpicking, but this garbage story just annoyed me.
I picture the author, sitting at her writing desk, cackling and thinking, "What chaotic, disrespectful, story can I come up with to fool these readers into thinking this is something good ... "
What I did not enjoy and found so totally inappropriate is HOW this story is told ... Nana is telling a bedtime story to her little grandchildren, 6 and 8 years old, and this, swapping places, is the bedtime story she tells ?!?! - There are drugs, a bad biker gang called Hell's Outlaws, strippers (mentioned a lot; and seriously, author, you don't even respect these women and call them ladies, you refer to them only as "the strippers" at every single mention!!), pastor has the hots for the strip club waitress, lots of beer, a trucker drowns his troubles in some beer and 30 minutes later is back on the road (awesome, drinking and driving) ... ... and more ...
I would have liked this so much more if it just stuck to the story about redemption and not judging a person, and if it was not told by Nana with young children involved ...
"What's a strip club?" Lily (6 yrs) asked ...
"It's where women undress for men" ...
WTH. Seriously, how did Macomber think it appropriate to share this info with a 6 year old? And, if you read the story, it is not Nana's place to enlighten the children with this story, leave it to the parents! I have a child, and this is not an age appropriate bedtime story regardless of the "history". And yes, I read the entire story, I see the valuable life lessons here, I put the pieces together and "know" who the people are, I got it. But for me, it doesn't matter the good outcomes and opportunities to put yourself in another's shoes, including the young children absolutely ruined it for me.
Also, do some research. One can not just willy-nilly move a billiards table and slide it out of the way for a Christmas tree. 🙄. Okay, okay, so now I'm just nitpicking, but this garbage story just annoyed me.
I picture the author, sitting at her writing desk, cackling and thinking, "What chaotic, disrespectful, story can I come up with to fool these readers into thinking this is something good ... "
December 7, 2022
This was the sweetest story!
November 28, 2022
Sit down for this story time with Nana and her grandkids. Nana retells the story of how the kids grandparents and great aunt and uncle found true love on the same Christmas. A sweet romance with lots of scripture reminders to be forgiving and nonjudgmental. This was an easy and pleasant story to listen to on a cold day. I have to say I was cracking up at the Christmas service scene. So funny, I could only imagine what that was like. Overall I really enjoyed this festive read even if it was a bit too saccharine.
December 2, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book. I always know what to expect from this author, her holiday romances are never deep just kind of cute.
October 11, 2022
Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber is another one of her heartwarming, lovely Christmas romance stories.
Story Recap:
Best friends, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax meet each other regularly at a local diner where they discuss their lives and reminisce on their high school days. One day, while complaining about how hard they work, they decide to swap jobs. Peter is a Pastor, and Hank owns his own bar. Each believes they got the better end of the deal, but after spending a week in each other’s job, both their lives change for the better.
My Thoughts:
I don’t know any author who does Christmas stories as well as Debbie Macomber. She has that balance of telling a sweet, wholesome story without it becoming sappy, or too sweet.
I enjoyed this sweet romance set at Christmastime. These characters were ones I would like to hang out with and I felt comfortable with all of them. They were realistic and compelling. This wasn’t a light Christmas story, but one that was a bit deeper and emotional that resonates with Debbie Macomber’s trademark heartwarming storytelling.
If you enjoy Hallmark movies you’ll love The Christmas Spirit. This book has a small town, quirky characters, and two sweet romances. I enjoyed the grandmother telling the story to her grandchildren as it gave a break between the sections of the story.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend The Christmas Spirit to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber is another one of her heartwarming, lovely Christmas romance stories.
Story Recap:
Best friends, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax meet each other regularly at a local diner where they discuss their lives and reminisce on their high school days. One day, while complaining about how hard they work, they decide to swap jobs. Peter is a Pastor, and Hank owns his own bar. Each believes they got the better end of the deal, but after spending a week in each other’s job, both their lives change for the better.
My Thoughts:
I don’t know any author who does Christmas stories as well as Debbie Macomber. She has that balance of telling a sweet, wholesome story without it becoming sappy, or too sweet.
I enjoyed this sweet romance set at Christmastime. These characters were ones I would like to hang out with and I felt comfortable with all of them. They were realistic and compelling. This wasn’t a light Christmas story, but one that was a bit deeper and emotional that resonates with Debbie Macomber’s trademark heartwarming storytelling.
If you enjoy Hallmark movies you’ll love The Christmas Spirit. This book has a small town, quirky characters, and two sweet romances. I enjoyed the grandmother telling the story to her grandchildren as it gave a break between the sections of the story.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend The Christmas Spirit to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 17, 2022
Book 188 of 2022
Sigh…I wanted to like this one. I really did, but there were too many things that just didn’t work for me.
1. Stereotypes — I’ve noticed a lot of cringe-worthy stereotypes in Macomber’s last several novels. They’re almost to the point of being uncomfortable. In this book, she latched onto a biker’s gang (Hell’s Outlaws) and strippers. She repeatedly called the women “the strippers.” Over and over and over. Why couldn’t we just call them by their names?
2. Story Line — I realize with Christmas novels, we have to release our grip on reality & embrace the fantasy and nostalgia of the season. Story lines & tropes that don’t work anywhere else work here. There are many “switcharoo” story lines that occur at Christmas. I can honestly say I didn’t anticipate a bar owner & a pastor switching jobs/roles for the week leading up to Christmas. 🥴
3. Confusing Characters — Macomber’s Christmas novels are on the shorter side, so to add a cast of characters that we know are based off people in real life, but have different names in the story was mega confusing. It was too much too quick at the beginning.
4. Inappropriate??? — This is a story of a grandma telling her 8-year old grandkids a Christmas story. A Christmas story about a pastor working in a bar, strippers, drug dealers, and a biker’s gang. I just cannot see these being in a story I’d tell kids that age. 🤷🏻♀️
I appreciate the message Macomber was trying to share. That Jesus us for everyone (even the bikers/drug dealers and strippers), but it needed some smoothing out. I *do* think there’s a target audience here that will love the book. I just don’t think I’m old enough to fall into that demographic.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This book is scheduled to be released on October 18th.
#ad
Format: ARC
Sigh…I wanted to like this one. I really did, but there were too many things that just didn’t work for me.
1. Stereotypes — I’ve noticed a lot of cringe-worthy stereotypes in Macomber’s last several novels. They’re almost to the point of being uncomfortable. In this book, she latched onto a biker’s gang (Hell’s Outlaws) and strippers. She repeatedly called the women “the strippers.” Over and over and over. Why couldn’t we just call them by their names?
2. Story Line — I realize with Christmas novels, we have to release our grip on reality & embrace the fantasy and nostalgia of the season. Story lines & tropes that don’t work anywhere else work here. There are many “switcharoo” story lines that occur at Christmas. I can honestly say I didn’t anticipate a bar owner & a pastor switching jobs/roles for the week leading up to Christmas. 🥴
3. Confusing Characters — Macomber’s Christmas novels are on the shorter side, so to add a cast of characters that we know are based off people in real life, but have different names in the story was mega confusing. It was too much too quick at the beginning.
4. Inappropriate??? — This is a story of a grandma telling her 8-year old grandkids a Christmas story. A Christmas story about a pastor working in a bar, strippers, drug dealers, and a biker’s gang. I just cannot see these being in a story I’d tell kids that age. 🤷🏻♀️
I appreciate the message Macomber was trying to share. That Jesus us for everyone (even the bikers/drug dealers and strippers), but it needed some smoothing out. I *do* think there’s a target audience here that will love the book. I just don’t think I’m old enough to fall into that demographic.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This book is scheduled to be released on October 18th.
#ad
Format: ARC
December 28, 2022
“I was falling in love with you, and I couldn’t seem to get past the barrier you’d erected. I needed to find a way to your heart, so you’d give me a chance.”
- Hank Colfax
——
“Loved you then and love you even more now.”
- Hank Colfax
- Hank Colfax
——
“Loved you then and love you even more now.”
- Hank Colfax
October 6, 2022
Review coming soon.
December 15, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up. Another warm, fuzzy Debbie Macomber book. The premise is cute, with a grandmother telling her grandchildren a story that takes place in the past. There is a pastor, bikers, strippers and an unexpected group of characters in this Christmas tale that is a very easy, quick read. Great for the spirit of the holidays.
November 21, 2022
4.5 star read - would have been a 5 star read except for two unnecessary swear words used towards the end of the book. Lovely and heartwarming story otherwise!
December 5, 2022
This was a delightful tale. It begins with a grandmother and her two grandchildren settling in with some hot cocoa by the fire and demands for a story. I loved the questions, back-and-forth banter between the children and grandmother. She wants a kissing story, he an adventure…
The story shares the time best friends, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax, switched places. It was the week before Christmas. The two meet for breakfast at the local diner, a tradition they have kept up since high school. Peter is the local pastor, and Hank owns a bar in the next town. Hank is groaning about his busy schedule and while Peter sympathizes, he has his own demanding schedule. Soon, each is claiming their lives are harder and busier. Before breakfast has ended, the two have agreed to switch places.
The tale has all the markings of a great Christmas tale with messages of goodwill towards men, character growth, and not one but two sides of romance. I laughed, cheered and lost myself in their stories. Filled with small-town charm, Christmas snow and one naughty donkey, it’s the perfect story to put you in the holiday spirit.
The delivery and moments with the grandchildren as they peppered their grandmother with question, only added to the tale. The discovery at the end, while expected, was delightful.
For fans of feel good, Hallmark holidays. It’s the perfect blend of heart-tugging sugary sweetness. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
The story shares the time best friends, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax, switched places. It was the week before Christmas. The two meet for breakfast at the local diner, a tradition they have kept up since high school. Peter is the local pastor, and Hank owns a bar in the next town. Hank is groaning about his busy schedule and while Peter sympathizes, he has his own demanding schedule. Soon, each is claiming their lives are harder and busier. Before breakfast has ended, the two have agreed to switch places.
The tale has all the markings of a great Christmas tale with messages of goodwill towards men, character growth, and not one but two sides of romance. I laughed, cheered and lost myself in their stories. Filled with small-town charm, Christmas snow and one naughty donkey, it’s the perfect story to put you in the holiday spirit.
The delivery and moments with the grandchildren as they peppered their grandmother with question, only added to the tale. The discovery at the end, while expected, was delightful.
For fans of feel good, Hallmark holidays. It’s the perfect blend of heart-tugging sugary sweetness. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 29, 2022
Set your worries aside, grab a warm beverage, a cozy blanket, put away your bookmark (you won't need it) and settle in.
Debbie Macomber just gets better and better, truly a magical story teller. In The Christmas Spirit she manages to put the true meaning of Christmas into your hands. A doting grandmother decided to tell her two grandchild a story, not a fairy tale this time -per the request of her grandson. As the story starts we are transported to 1977 to Pete and Hank, best friends, but perhaps an unlikely duo. One owns a bar and the other is a pastor and they decide to switch places for the week. As you can imagine, they each discover that the other doesn't have it as easy as they originally thought. Their friendship grows, their community grows, and some unlikely friendships/alliances form.
This story is truly nostalgic and reminds me that no matter where you come from and no matter where you're headed -God will always welcome you with open arms.
My Christmas heart is truly happy -one giant hot chocolate cheers to you, Ms. Debbie Macomber. 🥹🎄❤️
Debbie Macomber just gets better and better, truly a magical story teller. In The Christmas Spirit she manages to put the true meaning of Christmas into your hands. A doting grandmother decided to tell her two grandchild a story, not a fairy tale this time -per the request of her grandson. As the story starts we are transported to 1977 to Pete and Hank, best friends, but perhaps an unlikely duo. One owns a bar and the other is a pastor and they decide to switch places for the week. As you can imagine, they each discover that the other doesn't have it as easy as they originally thought. Their friendship grows, their community grows, and some unlikely friendships/alliances form.
This story is truly nostalgic and reminds me that no matter where you come from and no matter where you're headed -God will always welcome you with open arms.
My Christmas heart is truly happy -one giant hot chocolate cheers to you, Ms. Debbie Macomber. 🥹🎄❤️
January 7, 2023
While watching her grandchildren one evening they ask her about baking cookies and after volunteering all that day she is wiped out. They agree to have her tell them a story instead and while drinking hot cocoa and cuddling on the couch she starts, it's a true story about two men, friends since childhood. One is a pastor, one a bartender, two quite different
professions. Each thinks the other's job is easy peasy, nothing to it and they agree to trade jobs for a bit and prove how easy each other's job is. With funny and disastrous results, it's quite the eye-opening experience for them both as they meet new people and come to have a new appreciation for each other. A heartwarming and emotional story. I really enjoy this author's books and always read her new ones when they release.
18 Oct 2022 publish date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
professions. Each thinks the other's job is easy peasy, nothing to it and they agree to trade jobs for a bit and prove how easy each other's job is. With funny and disastrous results, it's quite the eye-opening experience for them both as they meet new people and come to have a new appreciation for each other. A heartwarming and emotional story. I really enjoy this author's books and always read her new ones when they release.
18 Oct 2022 publish date.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 23, 2022
This was a heartwarming story of family and I loved how Macomber told it to her "grandkids". The best Christmas eve story I have ever heard. If you are looking for a fast fun read for of heart with lots of emotions, I just found it for you. I recommend The Christmas Spirit.
December 13, 2022
This is first book by Debbie Macomber that I have read. I can understand the appeal to some readers (she apparently has a lot), but it was just too saccharine and predictable for me.
December 22, 2022
It is such a distinctive and beautiful fusion of women's fiction and Christian romance. A heartwarming Christmas tale that also allows us to chuckle and humbles us a little. The author has a talent for digging deep into your soul and reaching the core of the story.
I adore how this book was written since it was narrated by a grandmother to her grandchild. As this strange tale is told, I couldn't help but smile as I saw Peter, a minister, and Hank, a bar owner and friend, trade places the week before Christmas. In the spirit of Christ's love over the holiday season, both have eye-opening experiences and meet some new acquaintances.
I felt at ease around all of these characters and they were all people I would want to spend out with. They were convincing and lifelike. This wasn't a fluffy holiday tale; rather, it was a little more introspective and emotional, in the tradition of Debbie Macomber's endearing storytelling.
The story itself is fantastic and entertaining. This novel, in my opinion, depicts the true spirit of the holiday. Despite being somewhat predictable, this novel contains all you could ask for in a heartwarming Christmas story and much more than you would have imagined.
This is a light-hearted read that is likely to put a smile on your face due to its amusing, heartwarming, and romantic situations. I highly recommend!
I adore how this book was written since it was narrated by a grandmother to her grandchild. As this strange tale is told, I couldn't help but smile as I saw Peter, a minister, and Hank, a bar owner and friend, trade places the week before Christmas. In the spirit of Christ's love over the holiday season, both have eye-opening experiences and meet some new acquaintances.
I felt at ease around all of these characters and they were all people I would want to spend out with. They were convincing and lifelike. This wasn't a fluffy holiday tale; rather, it was a little more introspective and emotional, in the tradition of Debbie Macomber's endearing storytelling.
The story itself is fantastic and entertaining. This novel, in my opinion, depicts the true spirit of the holiday. Despite being somewhat predictable, this novel contains all you could ask for in a heartwarming Christmas story and much more than you would have imagined.
This is a light-hearted read that is likely to put a smile on your face due to its amusing, heartwarming, and romantic situations. I highly recommend!
December 7, 2022
An enjoyable read. I found the life lessons most interesting. This has a dual timeline consisting of present-day and December 1977. Hank, Peter, Grace Ann, and Millie were well-developed characters along with the rest of the gang that made up this sweet Christmas story.
Rating: PG
Language: clean read, implied swearing
Recommend: yes
Rating: PG
Language: clean read, implied swearing
Recommend: yes
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