The Christmas Promise
by Donna VanLiere
ISBN-13: 9-780312-367763
Rating: 3.5 ♥ / 5 ♥
Seven years ago Gloria endured a family tragedy that almost shook her faith entirely. Each Christmas she places a card in an envelope on her tree, restating a promise she made to her husband before he died. Now, having moved from her small town and all the painful memories it held, she is building a life by caring for people in need. Whether it’s a young mother who can’t pay her electric bill or a family who needs some extra food, Gloria always finds a way.
Miriam is a thorn in Gloria’s side. Miriam is a constantly critical, disapproving neighbor who looks with suspicion at all the good things Gloria does. When a twist of fate makes them roommates instead of neighbors, it’s the ultimate test of patience and faith.
Chaz has a good job as head of security at Wilson’s Department Store, but each night he returns home to an empty apartment. He longs for a wife and family of his own but realizes that the life choices he’s made have alienated him. He befriends a young boy whose mother has fallen on hard times, giving him a chance to have a life he thought impossible.
The fourth book in the series, The Christmas Promise, is just as well written and heart-warming as book three (the only other one I’ve read 
).
The story takes place in the same town as the others, though the only recurring character is the doctor, Nathan. Gloria is a great character, she’s a good neighbour, kind to everyone and extremely loving. She’s lonely, though, since her husband died and youngest son disappeared. But, since it’s a Christmas story, everything works out for Gloria in the end! The secondary characters were quite integral to the plot, and I loved Nathan’s little cameo.
Donna VanLiere’s series is a wonderful addition to any holiday story collection!
Cait
