Michelle Betham

Jessie and her husband always wanted to spend Christmas in Lapland. He died tragically before they could go together so this Christmas she's going along with her brother and his friends. Enchanted by the resort, and encouraged by a native Laplander, Jessie starts to make peace with her past and move forward. This is a love story, but it's not just a love story about a man and woman. It's also about Jessie's rekindled love for Christmas and for life. It's very sweet and satisfying.

(Provided by publisher)… (mais)

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This poignant novella explores the other side of Christmas. Jessie's had a year to come to terms with her tragic loss but the festive time of year brings bitter sweet memories. Tired of being everyone's pity object she embarks on the trip of a lifetime with her brother to Lapland, hoping she can feel closer to her lost love, living the dream they wanted to experience together.

The setting is beautifully vivid and manages to make Lapland seem like the Christmas fairytale. Jessie is a strong woman, who realises she is the only one with the power to move on to the next stage of her life. Exploring the quaint resort on her own she encounters Mikku and feels a bond with him, which she neither expects nor welcomes but can't ignore. Jessie trusts her new friend and acts on his advice even though it puts her outside her comfort zone. What she experiences forces her to make a life changing decision.

'The First Christmas Without You' has courage, mystique and romance. It's guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit, a lovely, enchanting tale.… (mais)