A Christmas story with a strong Christian theme, Love, forgiveness, and redemption.
Robert Robinson, a renown author from New York City, is traveling unwillingly through a snow storm on his way to a small farm in upstate New York owned by his editor. Robert's fame from the success of his books has changed him. His indulgence in big-city parties and being in the spotlight has allowed his arrogance to swell and for him to lose focus of his obligations. Now, being excessively late on the third book of a three book contract, he is given an ultimatum. He can either face legal action from his publisher or take one last chance to finish his book away from all the big-city distractions.
Patty has her own issues, dealing with the memories of her late husband. Always at the edge of depression, she somehow remains visibly strong and in control of her emotions, despite her internal turmoil. While Patty's father is away to be with a dying friend, she assumes the responsibility of caring for the old farm owned by the New York editor.
Robert is oblivious to Christmas and all that goes along with it. His parents loved Christmas, but he hadn't spoken with them in over eight years after their argument. Over the years, he has slowly disconnected from everything that reminded him of them. Christmas just became a day for a bigger party.
While at the old farm house, Robert discovers something that has been hidden there for possibly generations. What secrets lay just beyond an old screeching gate? Will the miracle of Christmas find its way to Robert? Find out in the story, "The Christmas Gate."
Professional Reviews The Christmas Gate
I love a good Christmas story. Fantastic book that keeps a reader turning the pages for more. The story does have a deep religious theme, but presented in a very interesting way. Would not be surprised to see the Hallmark channel put this into film.
Extremely eager for the second book in this story!
The Christmas Gate
I love a book that gives you all the feels! And even better yet when it's a Christmas story because that's what your goal is in reading one! Roberts story is one that will touch your heart & maybe have you looking at your life in a new perspective. It made me gasp, shudder & left me with tears running down my cheeks. Part 1 of a 2 part story, I'm dying to see the rest of Roberts journey & hoping it includes Patty!
Thanks to T.A. Cline for this copy in exchange for review!
The Christmas Gate
This is an absolutely lovely story of forgiveness and faith that I unexpectedly fell in love with! Robert is a best selling author who is dangerously close to missing his latest deadline and his publisher sends him to his farmhouse to buckle down and write. What happens there is magical, delightful and totally not what Robert anticipated.
I do want to mention that there are some religious aspects to this story, nothing gratuitous but it is there. It truly adds the bones of the story though and provided such a warmth and sense of overall love to the book. I don’t want to discuss the plot at all really, as this is a short novella under one hundred pages and I fear saying anything would ruin it. I will say though that I really liked the messages here, it talks about the true meaning of Christmas and how as a society we have strayed from it in recent years. It makes you contemplate what is really important in our lives and it sure isn’t having a lot of things. It was a heartwarming story of love and loss, forgiveness and acceptance, and the power of faith. It ended on a slight cliffhanger but part two is coming and I can’t wait to see what choices Robert makes for himself and his life.
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.
Authors and readers alike can benefit from sharing and reviewing books on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/?ref=nav_home one of the largest communities where readers discover, rate, and recommend titles. More reviews there help great stories like this reach wider audiences.
Reviewed by Susie Laurel (Reader)
Reviewed on November 8, 2023
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.
Reviewed by Anne Nelson (Reader)
Reviewed on December 13, 2018
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.
Reviewed by E Harris (Reader)
Reviewed on February 23, 2018
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.
Reviewed by Sayantoni Das (Reader)
Reviewed on January 17, 2018
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.
Reviewed by Nicole baker (Reader)
Reviewed on January 14, 2018
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
Reviewed by Heidi Strawser (Reader)
Reviewed on January 2, 2018
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 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?
Reviewed by Amy Campbell (Reader)
Reviewed on November 29, 2017
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.
Reviewed by Dee Wolters (Reader)
Reviewed on November 20, 2017
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.
Reviewed by victoria brinius (Reader)
Reviewed on October 29, 2017
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.
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.
Reviewed by Amanda Peck (Reader)
Reviewed on October 14, 2017
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.
Reviewed by Debbie Mayfield (Reader)
Reviewed on October 12, 2017
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.
Reviewed by Susan Anderson (Reader)
Reviewed on October 10, 2017
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.
Reviewed by Debbie Brandt (Reader)
Reviewed on October 9, 2017
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.
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".
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.
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.
Authors and readers alike can benefit from sharing and reviewing books on Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/?ref=nav_home one of the largest communities where readers discover, rate, and recommend titles. More reviews there help great stories like this reach wider audiences.
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 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.
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.
surprise
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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".
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.
sounds to be an excellent read
best wishes for much success