Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander
Series: The Carnton Novels, Prequel Novella
Publisher: Thomas Nelson on October 3, 2017

Review by Kelly Goshorn

I don’t often revisit books I’ve already read, because frankly, there are too many I haven’t read once. But this story of love, war, and second chances set during the Civil War beckoned me to revisit it once again. Christmas at Carnton combines three of my absolute favorite things in a novel—a Christmas story and a strong message of hope written by one of my must-read authors, Tamera Alexander.

Confederate sharpshooter Captain Jake Winston and war widow Aletta Prescott meet at Carnton. Winston is recuperating from a war injury and is assigned to help with an auction to raise money for the Confederacy while Aletta volunteers with the Women’s Relief Society in exchange for room and board at Carnton for herself and her son. Despite many hardships and setbacks, Aletta perseveres and demonstrates an unswerving faith. I found her integrity and faithfulness in the little details inspiring. And handsome, helpful Jake, so honorable in his tender dealings with Aletta, is definitely a swoon-worthy hero.

Alexander weaves a sweet romance for her hero and heroine even against the harsh realities and devastation of the Civil War. Although the romance between Jake and Aletta progresses like a slow burn, you can feel the attraction between them instantly. Even though they fight the chemistry between them for various reasons none of which I can elaborate on without revealing spoilers. Eventually, as in all good romances, love wins out.

“And don’t think I’m not a little scared too. Because I am.” He gently wiped the tears from her cheeks. “But what scares me more than the thought of one day losing you . . . is the thought of not having spent my lifetime loving you.” 

~Tamera Alexander, Christmas at Carnton

Even though this story is billed as a novella, it reads like a novel. The story didn’t feel rushed like many novellas and the characters and story were very well developed. Alexander is adept at drawing the reader in and connecting you with her characters. The characters were written with such depth and feeling I could truly empathize with their struggles and rejoice when they overcame the obstacles in front of them. This story, like most of Alexander’s, will tug at your heartstrings and not let go until the story has ended.

Alexander’s research is impeccable, yet she doesn’t dump information into the story that isn’t necessary. Instead, she skillfully infuses the novel with rich historical details that bring the setting to life without slowing the pace for the reader. A heart-warming story of love and redemption set against the backdrop of historic Carnton Plantation, Christmas at Carnton is the perfect prelude to Alexander’s Carnton Novels series.

4.5 fish makes Christmas at Carnton a wonderful selection for your holiday TBR pile.

I read Christmas at Carnton on Kindle.