sometimes_samantha_reads's Reviews (283)

I was gifted this book and read it in a day or two. To be completely transparent I really don't like Christmas books or books with religion as a theme because it's not interesting to me at all. I only read it all the way through because the person who gifted it to me kept asking me about it... But, if you're someone who is into those two themes and possibly likes Hallmark movies, you'd probably enjoy it.


I was also uncomfortable reading many parts of this book as an educator of elementary schoolers and children with exceptional needs. The relationship between the adult characters and the focus student crossed many legal boundaries that are expected to be followed such as not using your personal vehicle to transport a child somewhere outside of school hours and the expectations of physical touch. I was uncomfortable that the lead male held hands with the child on multiple occasions and also took her to movies and dinner alone multiple times without her mother present. I know it wasn't written with any negative intentions however as an educator I personally felt it crossed a lot of boundaries. The lead female character, though better in my opinion than the male character, also seemed hyperfocused on this little girl. Again, I understand that is the lens of how the story was being told, but they teach you in educator prep programs that hyperfixation on individual children can be a sign of predatory behavior. The red flags were raised in my head.

Regardless, this clearly wasn't the book for me but maybe you or someone else would like it.

The level of bittersweet that I'm filled with is almost incomprehensible! What a thrilling end to an amazing trilogy. I truly didn't expect the ending and though it was a surprise to me, I feel it fit perfectly and in no way was made simply for shock value. Again, what an incredible ending. I'm kind of speechless! Now to wallow in both the melancholy and joy that this book has left me with before starting something new!