Publication Date: October 24, 2023
Home for the holidays…
Or home for good?
Once upon a time, Ben Cooper left his hometown to follow his dreams of becoming a big-city doctor. Now he’s back to run his father’s clinic and spend Christmas with his daughter, not to fall for McKenzie Price, the woman who broke his heart. But when McKenzie steps in to help Ben reconnect with his little girl, and old sparks begin to ignite, will Ben give up city life for a second chance at love?
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
The Doctor’s Christmas Dilemma is a Love Inspired Inspirational Romance by Danielle Thorne. There was a wholesomeness and sweetness to the story, even if communication was almost non-existent between former best friends McKenzie and Ben.
Ben is a doctor and couldn’t escape their small town fast enough, especially after McKenzie stated she had no intention of leaving their town or going with him. Fast forward to the present, and they only have their memories to sustain them. But is that all there is, or could there be more down the road?
The story contains several storylines as we get to know the characters, the businesses, and the makeup of the town. There are a lot of reminiscences, and not all are pleasant. The stories are twined nicely together, and we learn of their pasts as well as hopes for the future, including dreams being fulfilled.
Ben is a single dad, and it was heartwarming watching him and his young daughter get closer since she lives with his parents and doesn’t see him often except through video chats. We learn of family relationships, friends, and activities, as well as some traditions.
As Mac and Ben draw closer, they never seem to be on the same page simultaneously. He tries to support her dreams and remind her of what some of them are, but she just digs in her heels more firmly into the ground of their small town. But is Ben getting through to her without even realizing it?
The human connections throughout the town made the story come alive, and I loved the Christmas setting. There is closure and a happily ever after, especially with the epilogue, but it left me wanting more. The author thanked the readers for returning to the small town of Kudzu Creek, and I look forward to reading more books connected to this small town.
The Doctor’s Christmas Dilemma has a Christmas setting, some adorable kids, animals, and a small town, along with relationship issues and past histories to contend with. It was a quick read that helped to get me in the holiday spirit, with the holidays right around the corner.
Danielle Thorne writes happily-ever-afters set in the South for Harlequin Love Inspired. A graduate of BYU-Idaho, she also writes stories about Regency ladies, pirates, and not-so-distressed damsels from her home south of Atlanta. Free time is filled with documentaries, too much yard work, and not enough travel. When not writing wholesome romances, Danielle hangs out with friends or chases cats. She enjoys the outdoors and serving in her church and community. Danielle’s been married to the same fellow for thirty years, and has four sons, four bonus daughters, and twin grandbabies.
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Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for the review. Have a great holiday season!
You as well! Have a good weekend.