12.04.2009

My Review: The Unfinished Gift by Dan Walsh




The Unfinished Gift
by Dan Walsh

Christian Fiction/Christmas/Historical

Revell Publishing
Pages: 249
ISBN: 9780800719241


(from Amazon):

Patrick Collins is seven years old, and on his Christmas list are only three items. He wants the army to find his father. He wants to leave his grandfather's house. And, for reasons even he doesn't understand, he wants the soldier that's tucked away in his grandfather's attic.

Set at Christmastime in 1943, The Unfinished Gift tells in an engaging, simple style the story of a family, and reminds us of the surprising things that affect powerful change in our hearts--like a young boy's prayers, a shoebox full of love letters, and even an old wooden soldier, long forgotten. This nostalgic story of forgiveness will engage readers everywhere.


My thoughts:

I wasn't sure what to expect when I agreed to review this book for Revell, but it was a Christmas-themed book, so I decided I couldn't possibly go wrong. Well...I was correct...this is an awesome book!! It's my favorite Christmas book, so far, for 2009! If you haven't read this book yet...I highly recommend it. It will bless your heart as it has blessed mine.

The Unfinished Gift is a very heart-warming, emotionally-charged Christmas book. There was not a dull minute to be found, and it was very hard to put down once I finally had time to sit down and read it. Be sure you have some tissues handy...you will probably need them! Don't let this turn you away from reading the book though...it's not depressing in any way...it's just so touching that you can't help become involved in the characters lives. I felt like I was right there in the thick of it with Patrick, Kathrine, Ian, and Mrs. Fortini.

I don't want to go into much detail because I would hate to give anything away. This is a book that is best if you start it without too much information...that way you get the whole effect of the story, fresh, from beginning to end. One thing I will say is that Mr. Walsh has a sequel due to release in June 2010, The Homecoming, and I can hardly wait to catch up with these wonderful characters!

If you would like to find out more about Dan Walsh, and his debut novel...please visit him at:
His website
His blog

** I would like to thank Revell for allowing me the opportunity to read/review this wonderful book. **


CymLowell

7 comments:

Renee (BlacknGoldGirlsBookSpot) said...

This sounds like it was a very good read. I'm glad that you liked it even though it wasn't something that you usually read. You do such a wonderful job with your reviews, thank you for sharing.

xoxo~ Renee

Lori (sugarandgrits) said...

Thanks, Renee! I'm never sure how my reviews will turn out, and I sometimes feel as though I've not done the book(s) justice.

I hope you get a chance to read this book...I think you will enjoy it even though you're not a fan of Christmas-themed books. It doesn't really dwell on the Christmas aspect all that much, IMO. Plus, it's a Historical...your favorite!!

{{hugs}}
~ Lori

Heather G. said...

This one does look great! Thanks for the review!

Dan Walsh said...

Thanks Lori. So glad you liked the book. I think you'll love the sequel too. These characters almost feel like family for me, especially now at Christmastime.

Hope you and your readers have a wonderful Christmas.

Dan Walsh

Carrie at In the Hammock Blog said...

I saw this book on Goodreads and was wondering if it was good, great review!!

Katy said...

This sounds so good! Will add it to my wish list. :)

Lori (sugarandgrits) said...

@ Heather, inthehammockblog, and Katy: Y'all should definitely grab yourselves a copy asap!

@ Dan: Thank you so much for dropping by! It's an honor to hear from you. That is so true...I was completely captivated by the Collins family before I reached the end of the book. I can't wait to catch up with them in The Homecoming.

Merry Christmas!
~ Lori