Positive Grace by Deb Haggerty

Deb’s Dozen: An angel teardrop, a creature fashioned from snow—blessed by Jesus himself.

Seldom have I seen a book as beautiful as Christmas in Idaho by Ray Downing. The presentation, the artwork, the paper, and the cover are stunning. In addition, the book comes with a CD containing a reading of the story by Eric Conger and the beautiful art animated as well. You will want to keep a copy of this story to read every Christmas—be you a child or a child at heart.

You see, Idaho got his name from a burlap sack Molly and Josh used as his vest when they fashioned him from snow. Little did they know the last handful of snow they patted upon his chest contained an angel’s tear. That tear caused Idaho to live and think and want to learn, especially about Christmas.

The pages that follow Idaho’s realization he was alive tell a wonderful tale. He endeavors to learn why Christmas holds such an honored place in their household. Idaho learns the story of Christmas. He meets the woodland creatures and finds a robin that perished in the cold. Sad, Idaho tears off a piece of burlap to wrap it in and carries the robin with him. One of the things he learns tells him when spring arrives, snow melts and he will disappear. So he sets out to find out as much about this world as he can before that time comes.

You will definitely want to get his book and read Idaho’s story. I am sure you will find amazement and sadness and joy within. I cannot recommend this book more highly—I wish I could award more than five stars.

Digital artist Ray Downing, Emmy winner and creator of “The Real Face of Jesus” for the History Channel, in this book, through his interests in art, science, and religion created an emotionally charged and lavishly illustrated Christmas story—a journey of discovery which questions our understanding of time and explores the possibility of immortality.

Ray graciously gave me a copy of Christmas in Idaho, but did not require me to write a review. To purchase, go to https://www.christmasinidaho.com/shop.

Deb’s Dozen: Old diaries lead to discoveries, love, history and romance.

Sloane Kelley, abandoned at birth, desperately wants to belong and to be loved. When an unwanted contribution to her museum reveals a nineteenth century diary, she embarks on a journey that leads to history and romance. The diaries intrigue her and cause her to step outside her comfort zone and become involved in the lives of Garrett and Lauren Anderson.

Garrett Anderson, well-organized and pragmatic, just wants to get his aging grandmother out of her house and into a home where she will be cared for. His sister, Lauren, on the other hand, wants to keep her grandmother in the beautiful but rundown ancient house. History and romance interest one but not the other. When Garrett brings in real estate agent Kimberly Walsh, the tension between them heats up–will she destroy their close relationship?

The diary brings the three together as they search for more journals written by Annabelle those many years before. Twists and turns, starts and stops hinder and help their discoveries of history and romance. All three learn to know themselves better and to treasure the memories of the past. Will Sloane find her history and her mother? Will Garrett realize life encompasses more than logic? Will Lauren realize her grandmother needs more care than she can give? I had a great time finding out. Four stars.

About the Author

Amanda Wen lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband and three children. Roots of Wood and Stone is her debut novel and the first in the Sedgwick County Chronicles, which promise more history and romance.

Kregel Publications gave me a copy of this book but writing a review was not a requirement. And as an Amazon Associate, I may receive a small commission from any sales resulting from this review.