The Christmas Gate (Book) - 3/30/2026 7:06:18 AM
A gentle, reflective Christmas story that blends spirituality, introspection, and heartfelt warmth perfect for readers who seek emotional depth and inspiration during the holiday season.
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The Christmas Gate (Book) - 11/8/2023 8:59:24 AM
This is my first read by author T.A. Cline and I must say it most definitely will not be my last. This story is perfect for the upcoming season. It has all the feels including religion, but brought in a very interesting and non-pushy way. It is a read that can be done in one sitting and I cannot wait until they make it into a movie.
Evergreen Forevermore (Book) - 10/25/2022 5:14:06 PM
Firstly thank you T.A. Cline for the opportunity to read for review this beautifully written novel. Several times I found myself reaching for my tissues as I was reading.
When I finally learned the meaning of the phrase "Evergreen Forevermore" my heart seemed to settle down, and allowed me to feel like I was curled up on the floor listening to the story like it was actually being read to me. What a amazingly unique feeling.
Evergreen Forevermore is phenomenally written that allows the reader to enjoy the story line, to feel the emotions of the characters and to actually form a image of what they may look like in life.
The life of each character will amaze you as a reader, seeing what each of them think, or what they are going through.
As a avid reader, I absolutely HIGHLY RECOMMEND this wonderful novel as one to read.
5/5 angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
The Christmas Ore (Book) - 11/15/2021 1:50:00 PM
I have read most if not all of T.A. Cline's books and I can say this is his best. He made you want to read the next chapter before you finished the one you were on.
The characters kept you involved in what they were saying and doing and the characters were interesting. Their story line fit so well together.
I really enjoyed the way this one was written and can't wait for his next book.
If you have never read any of his books you really should especially his Christmas ones.
Thank you T.A. Cline for the opportunity to read this book and all the rest
Janis K Richeal
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 12/13/2018 4:14:46 PM
I was so intrigued as I was reading "The Christmas Gate" by T.A.Cline. We all know of the traditions that surround Christmas from our lives as we grow up. Some we remember, others really intrigue you. This is a story of tradition, that was lost or forgotten as time and life went on. Life so often gets to busy, to allow our lives to enjoy the jewels of our family.
This amazing story is one that will stop you, in your busy life to TAKE TIME to ENJOY, and REMEMBER lives traditions.
I highly recommend this book, and also book 2.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 2/23/2018 3:27:15 PM
Even though The Christmas Gate, by T.A. Cline, is only one hundred pages long, it is a powerful and memorable tale. Robert Robinson, a successful and arrogant author, has a writing commitment to fulfill and he has writer's block. Facing a possible lawsuit, he agrees to stay in a farmhouse with the hope of finding the inspiration he needs to write. During his stay, events occur that change him in ways he had not foreseen or expected.
The author has crafted a beautiful story that is presented with impeccable detail and a lot of heart. It is inspiring and well worth reading. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Author's Den. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 1/17/2018 9:34:49 PM
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading this book. I mean it was evident enough that the story would revolve around Christmas but I wasn't sure where it would lead to. A little narrative at first, Bobby being the only character at play throughout most of the chapters, I presumed that it would be something closer to a learning experience. But Oh boy, it was so much more!
Bobby gets the farm house all to himself except for the occasional visits by a young lady named Patricia, the caretaker's daughter. Consumed by pride, he automatically assumes her to fall head over heels for him when they meet, but he was in for a surprise. She turned out to be one tough lady, with a pretty cold exterior unlike any woman he met in his life before. Soon he learns that she had been grieving over the loss of her late husband.
The emptiness of the surroundings and the vast farmhouse piques his curiosity, and he goes around exploring. That's when he discovers an odd arrangement of a room in the basement which leads him to a hollow compartment behind the walls, that concealed an old mysterious box, along with a Key. Expecting of course, to find gold and jewels inside, he tries opening it with the Key. Much to his disappointment, the contents turned out to be something else altogether. Now I'm not revealing them as I don’t want to spoil the mystery for you if you haven't read the book yet.
I wish I could write further than this, but I always write a spoiler free review, and I don’t want to break that custom ever. Now that is my work ethics 😉
Anyway, my heart is overflowing with emotions right now because this book was so much more than being just an ordinary Christmas Story. There were moments when I cried out loud and moments when I shed silent tears. I don't think I will be able to see Christmas the same way anymore because this book has definitely influenced my perception.
Initially with all the descriptions of the narrator's whereabouts, I was beginning to think that the story would shape up into a monotonous narration of Bobby's introspection. But that was when I had no idea where it was leading to. Everything changed when Bobby discovered the box. I couldn't put the book down. I knew I had to finish it in one sitting. And so I did.
I had no idea what the story had done to me until I was finished with the book and looked around me. My cheeks were wet and I had no track of time. In a nutshell, the story placed forth some really strong Christian beliefs centering mostly around one word, and one emotion, Love.
Rating? Well take all my stars please! It definitely deserves 5 out of 5 Stars! And the most beautiful thing is that there's a Part 2 which I’m hoping to read soon. And obviously, I couldn’t be any more excited to read it! I would recommend this book to all of you lovely souls out there. I repeat, ALL OF YOU. No matter what your age is, or what is your favourite genre, this book is for you. Just go and read it, no more discussion! 😁
The Christmas Gate is a story that nudges the gate to our inner conscience , making us wonder about our ethics and principles and how mankind has changed over the years. We all got something or the other to learn from it.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 1/14/2018 7:07:50 PM
I really enjoyed the book. Its short so a nice quick read. Its heartfelt and to be honest it wasnt what I expected. I enjoyed the religious elements and the small turns the story took. It was very descriptive so it was easy to paint a clear picture of the setting and characters. I loved the pen thank you so much it was a great
surprise
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 1/2/2018 8:02:03 AM
During the weeks leading up to Christmas, I love to read Christmas stories. The Christmas Gate was a perfect addition to my reading list this year. It's a nice little novella and the writing style reminded me of a cross between a Richard Paul Evan's Christmas story and Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol."
I really appreciated this story because it brought the Christmas aspect of Christmas into light. The main character learned not to be so self-centered and that life doesn't just revolve around him.
I really enjoyed this book and hope I get the opportunity to read The Christmas Gate 2 sometime soon! I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a good Christmas story. It's a quick read, but one that will remain with you for weeks and months to come.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 12/21/2017 10:59:08 AM
The Christmas Gate is a sweet and memorable story. It is only part 1 of a two-part story. I like the concept. I know it deals with candles mostly. I like T.A. Cline idea to use seven Christmas Candles. It gave me a feeling of “The Christmas Carol” only done a bit differently. I enjoyed it.
Ray has seven different visions. They all mean something different and show different things. I loved it. I can't wait for the next part to come out to read it. T.A. Cline writes this plot well. My favorite and best part are the Christmas candles and how they show up even when Ray put them away.
I would love to tell you more but why tell the story when you can read it yourself. I like the concept of how the gate opens and gives Ray a vision for seven nights. There a big surprise at the end and something you do not expect.
What are the candles and what do they mean? There appears to be a vision for each, and a color for each candle it represents. Hopefully, Ray and you seem to understand the mysterious box that Ray finds?
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 11/29/2017 8:08:23 AM
The Christmas Gate is the first of a two part story. It is a very short and I had it read in one sitting. I enjoyed it. I did not like Robert at first but he grew on me as the story continued on.
The Christmas Gate is a good, sweet, heartwarming, little novella and I hope to read the second part of it in the near future.
4 stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 11/20/2017 11:31:22 AM
Christmas stories are wonderful to read now that the leaves have all been raked and the mornings are crisp and clear. “The Christmas Gate” is a contemporary story that has several similarities to well known story ” A Christmas Carol.”
Bob is an author who has 1 well received novel under his belt and has received an advance for another. However, he has not been able to write this book, and most of the advance is gone. But Bob has enjoyed the fame, but not fortune, that accompanies the popularity of being a best selling author.
His boss calls him in for an update and gives Bob an ultimatum: write the book or go to court for breaking his contract. Bob heads to the farm house in the county owned by his boss with the best intentions: write. Upon arrival, he is fascinated with the house and grounds, as well as the caretaker’s daughter.
In his explorations, he discovers a well concealed box containing 7 candlesticks. Over the next 7 days Bob is visited by a midnight ghost who shows him families over the years. During these days, he also becomes friends with Pat, the caretaker’s daughter. These experiences help him turn the corner with the book and his life.
I enjoyed this book, but can hardly call is a book, it is so short. And the ending is very abrupt, leaving the reader hanging. I am hoping for book #2 to see how it all turns out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
The First Snowflake (Book) - 11/3/2017 6:54:52 AM
The First Snowflake
This is a short but very very good book. It teaches you that when you really believe and have faith all things are possible. However it does it in a way that you do not realize it is doing it. All because of a story handed down thru the generations. I know at this time in our lives faith is something we all need and because of this story which I have to say brought tears of sadness and joy I now know that I will bring my faith to the forefront of my life where it belongs. I think everyone should take the time and read this story of faith and love.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/29/2017 4:06:24 PM
This book has the makings for a great Christmas movie. It has an endearing character that was not at all likable in the beginning yet grew on me. Robert grew up knowing what Christmas is about and along the way he lost his path. His deadline is approaching and it is not just for his book. He starts to learn through his mistakes, but will it be enough and in time? Will he be able to set the course for his life back on the right track? I loved that the religious themes were in-bedded in the story, but not as overkill. I loved the setting, New England! and can not wait for more by this author. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/18/2017 11:07:27 AM
Although the book starts off a little weak, as the author builds momentum the story matures and becomes a lovely story. This intriguing tale of a modern-day Scrooge is developed with a strong Christian message about the power of God's love and the promise of redemption present in Christ's birth. I was initially put off by errors in grammar and syntax, but was able to look past the awkward editing and appreciate this new spin on the Dickens theme.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/14/2017 4:16:21 PM
This is a great story for the Christmas season. So many times, I’ve picked up Christmas books but found that they had nothing to do with the holiday. This book has several Christmas scenes that really set the mood for the Christmas season.
The story is similar to a Christmas Carol as the main character learns lessons by the way of supernatural experiences. Robert, the main character develops greatly through the story and goes from an unlikable person to someone who is very endearing.
I loved the setting of the story…it takes place in an old farmhouse in New York in the snow. The author was good at describing the home in a way that made me feel like I was there.
The different scenes that take place in the book are very relevant to our world today and caused me to analyze how I approach Christmas…it’s important not to lose Christ when celebrating His holiday.
I definitely recommend this Christmas story and look forward to reading book 2, which is being released soon!
I received a copy of this book from the author to review.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/12/2017 5:45:21 AM
I received my book on a Friday afternoon and read it that evening. I found it to be a great read...I didn't want it to end. It is a heartfelt story that will move you to tears. A story about forgiveness and faith. I chose this book because it was a Christmas story about my most favorite time of the year. T.A. Cline does a wonderful job of reminding us all the real meaning of Christmas. I am very excited to see what happens in The Christmas Gate II.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/10/2017 8:40:58 PM
I just finished reading this delightful book and loved it! It's filled with mystery and suspense, keeping your eyes riveted to the book. I tore myself away, just to make it "last longer". I hated to see it end. I love the holidays and Christmas is my favorite, that's why I chose this book. I wasn't sorry! T.A. Cline holds your attention throughout the entire book. Faith and love abound as the story unfolds. It's written keeping good old fashioned Christian values in the forefront. It isn't overly "religious" but is just a real "feel good" book. At times it brings a smile to your lips, while at other times, tears to your eyes.
If you want to read a beautiful story, read The Christmas Gate. You'll find yourself looking forward to The Christmas Gate 2, just as I am.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 10/9/2017 4:43:56 PM
I loved this book. My only disappointment was that it was a short book. I like the author's writing style. I loved that it pointed the way to Jesus. It was such a delightful read that I wish that the story didn't end. There was a cliff hanger at the end and I do hope the author write more, continues the story. I also thought it was super that the author took the time to personally sign the review copy. There is a great moral to the story about seeking and receiving forgiveness and about staying focused on the things that matter. The main character was one that lived out in the world of glitz, wealth and glamour. The book is about his change of heart. I highly recommend this book.
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 9/30/2017 9:03:03 AM
I just finished reading one of the best books I have read in a long long time. It really made me think about my life and how I had done some of the same things in me life that the character in the book had. I realize after reading this I need to change a few things too.
I cried and laughed but most of all really enjoyed reading this book and really want to read the second part of this story.
Mr. T.A. Cline is a wonderful, thoughtful writer and I plan to find other books by him to read especially the second part of "The Christmas Gate".
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 9/13/2017 11:10:06 AM
Author T.A. Cline in his book: “The Christmas Gate” sets the stage from page one and makes it a page turner until the very last page. I would say it is the best fiction book that I have read this year and I am so eager for “The Christmas Gate II” to be available.
This book is entertaining yet thought-provoking that allows the reader to reach deep within Robert’s life to see how past decisions that he has made are impacting him in the present. This quickly allows the reader to put themselves in Robert’s place with various issues within their life and the opportunity to explore how to better themselves by reading about Robert’s example of what happened to him.
I am appreciative to Author Cline and his excellent ability to challenge the reader while allowing them to relax and enjoy the flow of the story.
The First Snowflake (Book) - 12/24/2016 12:13:04 PM
sounds a compelling read
never stop writing!
The Christmas Gate (Book) - 12/22/2016 5:03:14 PM
sounds to be an excellent read
best wishes for much success
How to Survive Bean Soup, The Game. (Article) - 1/3/2020 12:24:51 PM
You sure know how to toot your horn and describe the players in the vapor game. Not a stinker among them.
Might I suggest certain raw vegetables having much more power of authority than beans' porridge in the pot nine days old.
Ron
Sightless Wonders (Poetry) - 5/10/2020 11:04:34 AM
I believe the beauty of mothers we don't have to see. But it made me remember the Beatles song, Mother Mary. And what a beautiful song it was.
"Speaking words of wisdom… Let it be… Let it be… Let it be."
Ron
Twilight Things (Poetry) - 4/30/2020 8:11:08 AM
You certainly have set the stage for an eerie evening before going to bed and dreaming. As the sun goes down and the transition in our eyes changes from color to black-and-white as well as fog appearing sometimes with the change in temperature, even a friendly forest can become quite ghostly at night.
Ron
Twilight Things (Poetry) - 4/28/2020 6:02:51 PM
I used to fear the night when I was a kid. Back then I could relate this poetic gem. But now night is when I pry to get a good nights sleep. Not scared of the dark anymore or anything that crawls or creeps. Boo! LOL
The Little Cow That Could (Poetry) - 2/28/2020 1:44:42 PM
You have taken the fact that cows, by eating grass, and then digesting it through multiple stomachs, give off a lot of methane in the process, creating an insightful poem. I'm for replacing all of the cows in the western United States with buffalo. Better tasting meat and lower emissions.
We will all be eating seaweed in the future and think that it is the best beef we've ever eaten. For we will all be gone except for a few cows that escaped slaughter.
Ron
The Little Cow That Could (Poetry) - 2/21/2020 10:45:42 AM
If we discover how to harness intestinal gas, we could solve the world's energy problems.
You Sleep Now (Poetry) - 2/13/2020 12:08:09 PM
A very lovely and touching poem for the young one who may have had a very busy day out in the wide world around.
Ron
You Sleep Now (Poetry) - 2/13/2020 8:00:28 AM
After a busy day like that he should sleep all night.
The Ballad of Carl and Ab And the Chicken Accelerator (Poetry) - 1/18/2020 1:39:06 PM
Quirky humor for sure. By my estimate, both man and chicken would not have survived. Only one thing… I know that in the second stanza Carl becomes "the man," but I think I would've preferred that you named him Carl all the way through.
Ron
The Ballad of Carl and Ab And the Chicken Accelerator (Poetry) - 1/18/2020 9:33:30 AM
50 stanzas by my count. Quite an accomplishment. Quirky humor permeates your storyline Mr. Cline. Much enjoyed. Thanks for sharing. r
Q/Country (Poetry) - 2/2/2018 8:23:18 PM
Fantastic poem!
I am very grateful to know that there are still informed people that know how to stand and let their patriotism be heard through an artistic voice. Well done!
Everyone is entitled to their opinions, granted, but if you don't love your county or are not willing to fight for it.... why are you here?
"The kingdom of heaven is dwindling everyday in the light of realistic thinking"?? Quite a bold statement! Perhaps let the patriots comment here and leave your heaven-less realistic thinking rhetoric to social media? No offense, that is just my opinion.
Q/Country (Poetry) - 2/1/2018 7:03:52 PM
Wonderful poem! Much appreciated! I served in the Air Force for 24 years in the military and 5 years as a civilian at the USAF Academy. I fly the flag outside our home and have done so for more than 30 years. I have been involved in prison ministry, homeless ministries, senior citizen ministries and youth ministry. I enjoy them all. Blessing to you, I am now a fan of yours. God bless you and the USA. Amen!
Q/Country (Poetry) - 2/1/2018 11:42:04 AM
This poem certainly has a high patriotic tone to it. But as I grow older, and hopefully, wiser, I have begun to think of lockstep patriotic fiery warlike rhetoric like this to be less helpful for us all than a willingness to accept others rather than repel them.
Our forefathers took this land and wrested it from others. We put boundaries around it and claimed that "God," gave it to us because we worked hard or paid for it with money. I would counter that premise, saying that we own nothing in this world for the short time we live. We only use the world to our pleasure, try to hold on to what we have to give to our children, and then it's gone.
The kingdom of heaven is dwindling every day in the light of realistic thinking. My country right or wrong doesn't make any sense. Why would I fight for something that was wrong? Because someone told me to? I can't find that argument legitimate.
Ron
Nights Meadow (Poetry) - 9/11/2017 6:23:16 AM
With a few words, you have created a beautiful image of Night's Meadow as I remember it.
Ron
Nights Meadow (Poetry) - 9/9/2017 8:11:32 PM
A lovely, lilting poem full of meaning and memory. John
The Christmas Tree (Poetry) - 12/24/2016 12:14:48 PM
well said, thought provoking read
never stop writing!
I, Alone (Poetry) - 12/24/2016 12:13:55 PM
poignant read
never stop writing!
I, Alone (Poetry) - 3/20/2016 5:36:18 AM
A very moving piece of poetry. I hope to read some of your other work. It all seems quite intriguing. John
The Old Rusty Gate (Poetry) - 11/9/2015 2:44:34 AM
There are far too many heart gates that are closed tight, it would be a great world if they could be opened again,
this is a very powerful piece,which I enjoyed reading very much,
Thank you for sharing it.
Steve
I, Alone (Poetry) - 11/9/2015 2:39:29 AM
What a vivid image of deep regret, brilliant penmanship.
thank you for sharing.
Steve
I, Alone (Poetry) - 11/18/2012 8:57:16 AM
Unpardon me but I relent it boldly;
For it is far ahead, if I can be sure of it,
And far it is, that my hallucination be valid,
And hallucination it is, as it should be,
And however, unlike itself, mysterious, unknown, and untested,
So it be foreseen in my tireless search.
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/31/2012 11:21:08 AM
And the dream of what could have been.
I turned to life and wept.
Ah..join the club!
Yeah..realistic as it gets..good work Theodore..
Blessings.
Vesna
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/30/2012 8:03:12 AM
Sadness, pain and regret radiate from these words.
Donna
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/28/2012 9:28:45 PM
your terse metaphors lash themselves to the raw emotion that drives this stake of a poem into the anguished heart of your ideal reader who must follow your speaker's lead and cry unceremoniously on the bare but remorseless shoulder of life itself...
it is your speaker our thoughts and prayers go with...
Be well and be buoyed... let peace permeate your heart.
Roger
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/28/2012 5:33:52 PM
So short but tells so much, I enjoyed this
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/28/2012 12:07:05 PM
Many can relate to this.
Ron
I, Alone (Poetry) - 1/28/2012 12:04:23 PM
hugs - felt an anguish in this one.
The Christmas Tree (Poetry) - 10/25/2010 5:05:23 PM
Wonderful spirit to this Thoedore. (I enjoyed your bio ~ that you are a farmer and a writer)
Blessings,
Christine
Moon Lit Mountain (Poetry) - 9/6/2010 12:45:19 AM
You have painted a fine picture, Theodore
Moon Lit Mountain (Poetry) - 9/4/2010 6:29:50 PM
AWESOME! I too gaze at my Mountain, and in awe, feel what u feel.
Ty, this is wonderful
God Bless
Ch'erie
Hope’s Heart the Journey to Free (Poetry) - 8/30/2010 5:47:35 AM
Theodore,
Words don't do justice to this absolutely stunning peace of work.
Utterly fantastic.
Mary
Every Step of the Way (Poetry) - 8/25/2010 10:21:18 AM
A poem of great encouragement, and so true
Evening Star the Call (Poetry) - 7/23/2010 6:31:03 PM
I really like the title of your poem, it sets the stage really well, and the whole poem flows from there beautifully ~
Blessings,
Christine
Evening Star the Call (Poetry) - 7/23/2010 8:56:49 AM
Theodore,
What a beautiful poem about a sunset turned to eve. I did one the other way, a sunrise turned to day! Great metaphoric phrases
Mary
When No One Knows (Poetry) - 1/5/2010 7:33:16 AM
Beautifully haunting poem. Thank you for your service to our country, and "when no one knows" can be applied to many things in life where suffering abounds. I love the repetition of "that is what happens when no one knows." Good job.
Carol
When No One Knows (Poetry) - 11/20/2009 7:17:03 AM
All veterans suffer as you do indeed. Blessings! Jasmin Horst
When No One Knows (Poetry) - 11/19/2009 7:57:01 PM
A very profound realization as another life moves on...
Be always safe,
Karen
Every Step of the Way (Poetry) - 11/10/2009 9:41:09 PM
beautifuly written and heart warming
The Winter Tree (Poetry) - 11/5/2009 7:02:30 PM
Theodore,
You are new to AD, but I sure love your verses. Very well written.
Nicole
The Winter Tree (Poetry) - 11/3/2009 10:32:02 PM
Brilliantly written with such strong emotions...
Be always safe,
Karen
The Winter Tree (Poetry) - 11/3/2009 7:05:45 PM
I really enjoyed this poem. The ending leaves me questioning the meaning. You have a wonderful way of expressing yourself in this poem. I hope to read many more.
Deborah Ann
