The Christmas List

A successful real estate broker named James Kier discovers that his local newspaper has mistakenly published his obituary. He reads the public comments and learns how people truly view him and his business practices. The revelation prompts Kier to examine his relationships, choices, and impact on others' lives. He creates a list of people he needs to make amends with before Christmas, leading him on a journey through his past actions and their consequences. With time running short before the holiday, Kier attempts to rectify his wrongs and repair damaged connections while confronting the reality of who he has become. His efforts to change occur against the backdrop of mounting business pressures and personal challenges. The Christmas List explores themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the possibility of genuine transformation. The narrative raises questions about the gap between success and significance, demonstrating how the holiday season can spark meaningful change.

Readers describe this as a redemption story that delivers a holiday message about second chances and making amends. Many compare it to A Christmas Carol but set in modern times. Readers appreciated: - The quick pace and short length make it readable in one sitting - Character transformation feels earned rather than forced - Utah setting details add authenticity - Messages about forgiveness and family relationships Common criticisms: - Plot points feel predictable - Some find the ending too neat and tidy - Religious themes are heavy-handed for some readers - Several note it's more serious/darker than expected for a Christmas book Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (14,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,100+ reviews) Barnes & Noble: 4.4/5 (200+ reviews) "A perfect reminder about what matters most during the holidays," writes one Amazon reviewer. Others call it "predictable but heartwarming" and "thought-provoking without being preachy."

The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom A businessman's death leads to revelations about his life's impact through supernatural encounters.

Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright The story follows a reporter investigating mysterious jars of money left for people in need during the holiday season.

The Gift by Cecelia Ahern A workaholic executive receives life-changing messages that force him to reconsider his priorities and relationships.

A Winter Dream by Richard Paul Evans A modern retelling of the biblical Joseph story chronicles a man's journey from betrayal to redemption during the Christmas season.

The 13th Day of Christmas by Jason F. Wright The tale connects a terminally ill girl with an elderly neighbor through daily Christmas gifts and shared wisdom.

🎄 The inspiration for "The Christmas List" came from Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," sharing similar themes of redemption and self-reflection during the holiday season. 💼 The main character, James Kier, is based on real-life ruthless businessmen the author encountered during his career in advertising and marketing. 📖 Author Richard Paul Evans wrote his first novel, "The Christmas Box," as a gift for his daughters, and it became the first self-published book to hit #1 on The New York Times bestseller list. 🌟 The book explores the Buddhist concept of "hungry ghosts" - spirits who can never be satisfied due to their endless greed - through the metaphor of modern business practices. 🎯 The novel's central plot device - a man reading his own obituary - was inspired by real events surrounding Alfred Nobel, who changed his legacy after reading his premature obituary which described him as a "merchant of death."