tarafarah7
**This review is for the audiobook** While many think the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year, there are still some who find it difficult to deal with for a variety of reasons. In Christmas Stray by Rachelle Ayala, narrated by Kate Marcin, Christmastime is not something Juliette has been looking forward to because it comes with the painful memories of losing her 6-year old son. In addition, this sadness is creating wedge between her and her husband, Gabe. It's going to take a miracle to turn this around! This is where Stray #1 & #2 enter the scene! Find out if they are able to help Juliette find love, happiness, and peace once again. This feel-good, inspirational story is great for a variety of ages, teens on up! Not only does it inspire, but it gives hope in times of despair and faith in times of need. Rachelle Ayala's writing has a way of pulling me in and keeping me engaged through the last page. At just under 2 hours Christmas Stray is a must-read! Kate Marcin's narration gave the characters personality and voice. She did a very nice job and helped put me in the scene, as well as the minds and hearts of the characters, especially Juliette. I'm sure this book is a lovely read, but being able to listen to it made it that much better. :-) Overall, I give this audiobook a rating of 5/5 stars. If you are looking forward to the holiday season and enjoy shorter, touching books about family, love, loss, and miracles, then Christmas Stray is the one for you!! Thank you so much for reading my review. I hope it was helpful. :-)
Isha Coleman
Christmas Stray had me catching my breath while losing my heart. Juliette and Gabe's story is as profound as it is heartbreaking. What once was strong, has been fractured by grief and hopelessness. Ms. Ayala tackles the subject of lost faith and broken hearts, while inspiring readers with her courageous characters. No parent should have to endure what this couple did. However, an adorable puppy and an equally lost little boy give this broken couple a chance at healing and moving forward. KLEENEX IS A MUST!!
Patty Reichardt
No one prepared me for this novella. I love Christmas stories, and when I started to listen to this one, I was all ready to have Christmas in September..then the plot started, and the heartache with Juliet and Gabe dealing with the death of their son, trying to get their life back on track and would it be together. This is not happy, this is not singing Christmas carols!!! Then...Rachelle Ayala takes the story and completely turns it around. The introduction of Patrick and Puppy creates a healing process for all the parties involved, turning a sad time of year in the middle of a blizzard into the changing of lives. Rachelle Ayala has a way of creating this story giving you so many feels and emotions(yes, you will tear up!) in the end making you smile! The narration of this book by Kate Marcin was pure perfection. She had each voice, each feel and every emotion spot on for me. I was feeling everything as she performed this short and will definitely look for more of her narrations.
