Love can transform even the best-laid plans in this heartfelt Christmas novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
Trapped in the middle of five siblings, Everly Lancaster always had big dreams. Now a top real-estate executive, Everly finds her work is her life, leaving no space for anything (or anyone) else. Sensing her stress, Everly’s boss insists she take December off. At first, a month away seems crazy—how will the company survive without her? But Everly’s mother convinces her otherwise. She deserves a vacation—plus, when she returns, she’ll have no excuse to skip family Christmas like she did last year.
But after her vengeful assistant books a guided cruise in the Amazon instead of the luxury beach vacation she expected, Everly is horrified to realize that she’s about to spend the next two weeks trapped—with no Wi-Fi!—in the rain forest. Not even Asher Adams, the ship’s charming naturalist, can convince Everly that the trip will be unforgettable. Slowly but surely, she realizes he is right: the sights are spectacular. And with each passing day, Everly’s relationship with Asher deepens, forcing her to take a long, hard look at her priorities.
Everly and Asher begin to see magic in the possibility of a life together. But as the cruise nears its end, and Everly’s family Christmas approaches, both must decide if love is worth the risk. A merry surprise may be in store in Debbie Macomber’s newest holiday delight.
1. Everly decides to heed Jack’s advice and take a much-needed vacation. Think about a time when you’ve felt overwhelmed. What, or who, helped you get through?
2. Traditions play an important role in Everly’s family, especially during the Christmas season. Are there any holiday traditions in your own family? How have they evolved over the years?
3. Asher initially worries that nothing can come of his feelings for Everly, as they lead separate lives in completely different parts of the world. Do you agree? Why or why not?
4. Everly mentions the struggles she encountered growing up with four siblings. How do you see her opinion of her family shift as the cruise progresses and she and Asher grow closer?
5. Compare and contrast how you think Everly’s and Asher’s past relationships affect the growing attraction between them. Do you think opposites attract?
6. When Asher shows up at Everly’s doorstep and the two reunite, it is clear they are both taking risks to be together. Talk about a risk you may have taken in your own life—what motivated it, and did it ultimately pay off?
7. Recall a trip or a memory that has had a lasting effect on you. What about it was life-changing?
8. Consider the last line of the book. Everly is ultimately grateful to Annette, as the cruise brought Asher into her life. Is this journey toward forgiveness something you’ve ever had to experience with a family member, friend, or colleague? What did you learn?
