Book Review: A Christmas Homecoming by Maryann Diorio

About the Book: Seven Christmases have passed since Sonia Pettit last heard from her daughter Jody. Since Jody's departure, Sonia's world has been turned upside down. Her husband has died of a broken heart, and her son, bitter over his sister's destructive actions, has become rebellious.

Her greatest desire is to have her family together at Christmas, but after what Jody has put them all through, can Sonia truly forgive her daughter?

Jody Pettit O'Dair ran away to experience a life of adventure and excitement, but since her departure, her world has been turned upside down. She's been abandoned by the man she met and married, lost her job, and is unable to care for her two children. With nowhere else to turn, this prodigal daughter begins the long journey home and prays she will be welcomed after walking away so long ago.

Will Jody find forgiveness in the arms of her family as easily as she received it from God? 

My Thoughts:  A Christmas variation on the Prodigal Son story, this short story is a quick and inspiring read.  

Our decisions, big and small, can have a lasting impact, not just on ourselves, but everyone around us.  We often tend to think of ourselves as isolated entities but nothing could be further from the truth.  Jody realizes this in a big way as the reality of her rash choice comes crashing down on her and she throws herself on the mercy of God and then her family.  

God will always forgive a repentant sinner, but people are not always quite as willing to do the same.  Hurt often gives way to bitterness, resentment, anger and hostility and it can take time and the healing work of the Holy Spirit to break down those walls in order for reconciliation to occur.  I loved the way the author brought about reconciliation between Jody and her brother - I won't say more because that would be a spoiler!

Thank you to Litfuse Publicity for organizing this tour and providing me with my complimentary review copy.