Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander - A Book Review

     After a recent visit to Franklin, Tennessee, I was quite interested in reading this new novella by Tamera Alexander. While we had visited the Lotz House rather than Carnton on that visit, thanks to our tour guide, I had vivid mental images of what had occurred around this area during the latter days of the Civil War. As our nation appears to become more divided about the worthiness of remembering this period of American History, Alexander’s writing shows us that there are still things to learn from those who lived through the experience on both sides of the conflict, without condoning the attitudes and events at its origins.

     Aletta Prescott, a young widow raising a young son, and with child, is an inspiration to all who face events that threaten not only one’s way of life, but life itself. While facing job loss, foreclosure, and an almost empty pantry, Aletta is alert to opportunities to provide for her family, now that her soldier husband will not be returning home to do so. If the story occurred in real life, many would say Aletta’s circumstances changed due to a happy coincidence. Others, like Aletta, would give credit where it belongs, with the God in whom she placed her trust. Captain Jake Winston’s injuries might not be as apparent as those of the Civil War’s many amputees, but they left him unable to perform his military duties. To say he was less than ecstatic about his assignment to represent the army and assist with an auction sponsored by the Women’s Relief Society in support of Confederate soldiers would be an understatement. Might his presence be a part of God’s plan? Might this be the best place for his recuperation from his injuries? Only time will tell.

     Perseverance, faith, and forgiveness are major themes in this book. Alexander handles her subject matter with grace and style. I highly recommend this novella and look forward to the series of which it serves as a prequel. I thank NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for a free copy of Christmas in Carnton in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation for this review.