Darien Gee

An Avalon Christmas Darien Gee

"Darien Gee writes about friendship and family with depth, grace and heart." 
--Sarah Jio, New York Times bestselling author of the novels Violets of March and Blackberry Winter 

Welcome to Avalon, IL. Quaint, charming, idyllic. A beautiful small river town that tourists love to visit and residents are proud to call home. Take a stroll down the flower-lined streets bubbling with old-time, classic charm or peek into any of the stores that make the local merchants proud: find a favorite book at the Book Nook, browse the selection of local wares at Avalon Gifts 'N More, or stop by Madeline's tea salons for scones and a hot cup of Darjeeling. Avalon is a place that you could stay for a while for no reason other than being there. 

But it's the 4,243 residents that set Avalon apart from everywhere else in the world. Characters of all sorts abound, from the friendly and hospitable innkeeper to the gossipy gal living next door to the crotchety old geezer down the street. A colorful palate of individuals give Avalon its heart, and when push comes to shove, this motley crew shows up for each other as friends, neighbors and family in the least expected ways. 

Avalon. Quaint, charming, idyllic. Or is it? Is it truly as perfect as it sounds? This Christmas a secret hides around every corner. Who's giving away free turkeys to every house in town? What is this mystery homeless man up to when he offers free gift-wrapping in front of the town's most popular gift shop? Is the annual town fundraiser raffle grand prize (one full year of rent or mortgage paid!) a hoax or the real deal? Can a broken relationship between brothers be healed or can unexpected love bloom between the unlikeliest of couples? What happens when mystery gifts of generosity start showing up around town during the holidays and how do they change the lives of those who need them the most but expect them the least? 

Written with heart, wit and humor, An Avalon Christmas is filled with twelve heartwarming stories of hope and cheer that make every day Christmas, bringing laughter and tears to readers this holiday season. 

For a glimpse into the town of Avalon and its residents, scroll up and take a look inside. 

BONUS: This special edition includes recipes, a reader's guide, and an excerpt from Gee's next Avalon title, An Avalon Valentine, available in 2015.