Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Book Review - "The Spell of Christmas" by Lisa Gray


 
Lisa Gray’s short story presents an interesting situation: a Christian and a Wiccan in a serious committed relationship.  I think it offers a good glimpse of how acceptance and love out to be.  Despite the differences in their beliefs, Marc and Owen are in love and devoted to each other.

Marc wants to introduce Owen to his family but Owen has his doubts and makes excuses to stay home during the holiday season.  Before Marc leaves to drive to his parents’ house, he secretly performs a Wiccan ceremony he hopes will bind him to Owen for good.

After Marc’s departure, Owen finds the gift and is surprised and touched by the gesture. Unknown to Owen, at the time he finds the gift, Marc runs into trouble on the slick snow-covered roads which make a high bridge extremely unsafe.

Cats play a small but important role in the story, as they become aware of Marc’s plight even though miles away in the house with Owen.  I like stories where the animals demonstrate they know more about the world than just what’s in front of their noses.  If I don’t want to drop any spoilers here but the outcome wasn’t necessarily what I expected.  I was pleasantly surprised at the gift of acceptance despite differences. 

And it’s a great story for cat lovers!

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