An Unexpected Christmas Helper

By Lee Tobin McClain 

This book checks off lots of boxes for me, especially:

Thanksgiving

Christmas

Support Dog (Snickers)

Inspirational Romance.

When Evan’s ex-wife drops off a toddler he didn’t know he had, he heads to Chesapeake Corners to get advice from Gramma Vi who raised him. Unfortunately, she is in the hospital. Her caregiver Vanessa and her son Declan live with Gramma Vi. There is immediately conflict because Vanessa had broken Evan’s heart when they were in high school. They now have some troubled waters to navigate as they try to coexist in Gramma Vi’s house. 

Both Vanessa and Evan had troubled homes as children that caused trust issues as they became adults. Vanessa is caring, kind, and a good mother to her son Declan. Evan is smart and generous and wants to be a good dad to his neglected daughter Lily. They are both Christians, but that doesn’t mean they are perfect. Sadly, Vanessa’s past causes self-worth issues, and Evan has a judgmental streak. They need to work on individual issues before they can have a successful relationship.

The dog Snickers and the two children, Declan and Lily, are key characters throughout the book. All three are delightful and realistically portrayed. Both Vanessa and Evan make their children’s well-being a priority in all of their decisions. This is a great read (or listen) for the holiday season.

I received a complimentary copy of this audio book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rating: 4/5

Category: Romance, Fiction

Notes: 1. #38 in the K-9 Companions series which seems to consist of standalone books dealing with K-9 companions.

    2. Narrated very well by Tanya Eby 

Publication:  October 28,  2024—Harlequin Audio