Based on the novel by C. J. Carmichael, a national best-selling author of over 45 novels in the genre of romance and mystery, and nominated twice for the Romance Writers of America RITA Awards, this delightful script brings her talents to the screen in an intriguing story set in small town Marietta, Mont.

Willa Fairchild, a young personal caregiver and single mom, has just gone through two years of heartache as her 6-year old son, Scout, battled for his life with a serious medical problem — and the bills are huge. Willa forms a friendship with Mr. Conrad, a loving elderly patient whom she is caring for in his final stages of life, and she and Scout get to know him as he shares his burdened life stories about his own family. When Mr. Conrad passes away, he leaves Willa with a $100,000 inheritance and a generous gift that allows her and Scout to spend Christmas at Bramble House, where he spent happy holidays as a child himself.

His estranged family is furious that some mysterious beneficiary has conned their father into leaving her his entire estate and willing nothing to his adult children. When his son, Finn, travels to Marietta to serve Willa with an injunction to contest the will, he discovers she is not a conniving thief or gold digger and chooses not to identify himself or disclose why he is there. Scout and Willa talk about Mr. Conrad and the great person he was while Finn listens to the stories about his father and becomes visibly upset when Willa says Mr. Conrad didn’t think his family cared about him.

As he gets to know the sweet and caring Willa, he begins to understand why his father would have treasured her friendship. When Willa tells Finn why Mr. Conrad left her the money, Finn is taken aback and finally understands his father’s motives. When Finn’s sister arrives and threatens to confront Willa about stealing from their father, Finn must make a decision to tell the truth, knowing that he may lose Willa’s trust and his newfound chance for happiness while the strong-willed owner of Bramble House presents Willa with a life-changing exciting opportunity.

The movie is well-cast, the acting is excellent and believable and draws you right into the lives of the characters. An easy delightful watch for families, couples, or just by yourself. No disappointments here! It’s Dove-approved for All Ages.

The Dove Take:

This is a charming movie the whole family will enjoy with beautiful Christmas settings, a story of true friendship, genuine caregiving, the importance of seeking the truth, asking for forgiveness, and accepting love.