The Christmas Spirit

By: Debbie Macomber

4/5 🍺 🍺 🍺 🍺

Peter and Hank have been best friends since grad school, but the two could not be more different. Peter has been working his whole life to become a Pastor, devoting much of his time to his beliefs and congregation. Hank has a different kind of congregation - he is owner and bartender of The Last Call. Over lunch one day, the two argue over who has it easier, each believing the other one has it made. Hank and Peter agree to trade places for five days to prove that life is easier on the other side. What neither expects is for the switch to provide life-changing answers.

Personally, I'm not religious, so I wouldn't normally pick up this book. I've been known to go for cheesier and steamier Christmas reads. However, I am a HUGE Debbie Macomber fan, so I knew I just had to read the newest addition to her collection. Despite the deeply religious and traditional Christmas vibes of this story, I have no regrets about picking it up! I devoured this quick read in one day. The characters were loveable and genuine. They had flaws and they had eye-rolling moments, but it was all natural.

One thing I really loved about Peter is he exhibits the values that I think followers should have. I don't want to get too political in this review, but I was raised Catholic and there were many disagreements I had with the teachings. Peter made me want to go back to church. He is a great example of what I think a true follower is.

Hank, on the other hand, made me want to go to my local bar and have a pint of beer. I loved the setting of The Last Call, and I ✨ adored✨ his personality. The brutal word vomit of this bartender was to be admired. He told it like it was without any regrets.

Overall, I highly recommend this cute Christmas read, whether or not you are a follower. I think anyone will find their own comfort in this story.