Dante’s Gift: A Chicago Christmas Book 1

HISTORICAL/CONTEMPORARY:  Dominic Lawrence has worked for months preparing for his marriage proposal to Kathleen James. He wants everything to be perfect. Just before the big night, he gets a phone call from his Grandmother in Italy telling him that his great aunt passed away. Dominic does not want his Grandmother to be alone in Italy, so he plans to bring her home. He knows he must let Kathleen know and tells her minutes before the proposal. Kathleen has a hard time dealing with this news. What if his grandmother doesn’t like her?  Instead of accepting the proposal, she decides to think on it. Dominic brings his grandmother back home and hopes that Kathleen will love her like he does.  His grandmother senses the problems with the young couple and hopes her own love story will inspire them.

Get out the tissues for this beautiful love story! The love between Dominic and Kathleen is genuine and sweet. Though the story jumps around from present day to World War II, the transitions are always smooth. The only issue is that the pace is a bit rushed, making the reader yearn for more detail and background. The author does make sure all the facts from World War II are accurate and makes the reader feel like they are there in Italy. Be prepared to be hungry as well, since there are always delish descriptions of Italian recipes!

The narrator, Tom Jordan, was absolutely spectacular! Not only is the book narrated with clarity and emotion but all the tones appropriate! His voice adjusts for all the characters, matching each character and making each voice very distinct. Not once will the reader feel disconnected from this beautiful story! This story is perfect for a quick holiday read!

Amanda Hupe