I hated to spend any more time with the Baxter's. Thus, I was less than pleased to see that this book resumed the story of the Baxter family. The only bright spot is that Delores Baxter, the overbearing mother, is deceased. Unfortunately, her children are like her, except Charity (the main character of the first book in this series. See below).
In the past book, we learned that the Baxter's were living on borrowed time; Mrs. Baxter was the leading matron of the town and spent money they didn't have. At the end of the story, it looked like the family would have to retrench (to save money).
In this book, we see a more sympathetic portrayal of Mr. Baxter. He allowed his wife to spend the family (literally) to the poor house because he did not want the family to choose sides with one parent or the other. However, his sons fight over the family's legacy (a carcass, though it may be), making him sad and powerless.
In the shadow of this turmoil, Mr. Baxter meets Miss Hettie Stillwell. She is her niece's chaperone for Stanley Baxter's dates with her niece (while Hamilton Baxter accompanies the three). He enjoys her company; maybe he can marry for love this time. However, the birth of Charity's baby brings everything to a point of no return. The author pulled this story from the fire and made it a memorable one.
Christmas Courtships
1. A Holiday Engagement (2022)
** 2. Beneath the Mistletoe (2023)
In the past book, we learned that the Baxter's were living on borrowed time; Mrs. Baxter was the leading matron of the town and spent money they didn't have. At the end of the story, it looked like the family would have to retrench (to save money).
In this book, we see a more sympathetic portrayal of Mr. Baxter. He allowed his wife to spend the family (literally) to the poor house because he did not want the family to choose sides with one parent or the other. However, his sons fight over the family's legacy (a carcass, though it may be), making him sad and powerless.
In the shadow of this turmoil, Mr. Baxter meets Miss Hettie Stillwell. She is her niece's chaperone for Stanley Baxter's dates with her niece (while Hamilton Baxter accompanies the three). He enjoys her company; maybe he can marry for love this time. However, the birth of Charity's baby brings everything to a point of no return. The author pulled this story from the fire and made it a memorable one.
Christmas Courtships
1. A Holiday Engagement (2022)
** 2. Beneath the Mistletoe (2023)
