Originally released under the title CHRISTMAS JOURNEY in 1992, ANGELS IN THE SNOW by Rexanne Becnel is now re- released with a new title, a few more pages and presumably a little updating. I read Becnel's books in the 90's, when she wrote primarily historical fiction with a smattering of supernatural, and I enjoy her historicals. This contemporary book has a very different feel than her historicals and did not work as well for me.

I anticipated this to be a romance, as Becnel is a historical romance writer. Instead, it's about a family on the edge of a breakdown. Charles Montgomery is a man who might appear to have everything- money, success, a big house, and a nice family. But he's a workaholic who doesn't pay attention to his wife and children, and his home life is falling apart. His wife wants a divorce, because she can't compete with his "mistress" - his demanding job. His kids are spoiled brats. I have to say I don't care for anyone in the family for at least the first half of the book. Part of the premise is that money isn't everything, and one should value the things that matter- family, friends, life, and love. But the way the husband, wife, and children are presented, I'm not rooting for any of them to get a happy ending.

Charles and his family travel to a remote cabin for the week of Christmas as part of Charles' master plan to keep his wife from leaving him. Their vacation is upended by a huge storm that strands them without electricity or heat. Then, a loving family is stranded in the snow near Charles' cabin and has to seek shelter with the Montgomerys until they can all be rescued. Can the eclectic but down-to- earth Walker family show the Montgomerys what is really important?

This is a simple and cozy tale that is designed to tug on your heartstrings. There's a mild rekindling of romance. It's a story about redemption, forgiveness, and what is truly important. The end has a surprise twist that is probably the best part of the book. Those seeking a quick feel-good story with a moral wrapped in holiday cheer will find Becnel's ANGELS IN THE SNOW to be the perfect holiday diversion.