Sometimes the Best Presents Can’t Be Wrapped

"Sometimes the Best Presents Can't Be Wrapped" is the latest holiday story from B.G. Thomas. It tells the story of Ned Balding, a coldhearted workaholic who cares more about the success of his business than the people around him who love and admire Ned, but he is too blind to see it. That is until his cruel kick towards an innocent dog ultimately curses him into becoming a dog himself.

Jake is an employee of Ned who has suffered many losses but tries to remain a faithful worker and respectable friend to his fellow coworkers. Through a twist of fate, canine Ned winds up in the care of Jake and he discovers more about this sweet, good-natured man and how Ned is viewed by those around him.

This story contains elements of classic magical Christmas stories like "A Christmas Carol" where the dislikable Scrooge is taught the true meaning of loving your fellow man. Being transformed into a dog, Ned loses his human ability to communicate and so is forced to listen and observe the people around him, learning about how people really see him and how much they do care for him, despite his harsh nature.

The story is a very interesting take as it involves the two main characters learning of each other in a very different way. They both develop a deep and loving relationship towards one another that doesn't involve the traditional romance since it's a man and his dog. Ned learns to put others ahead of himself and sees how people can grow and succeed when given the chance.

Everything from the writing of canine Ned's point of view to the beautiful book cover shows that this is a very different kind of romance story. Ned slowly becomes accustomed to his new dog senses and views the world in a whole new light. This is a completely different kind of holiday romance from B.G. Thomas…and that's OK because it works perfectly with this story.

The magical elements and sweet romance between Ned and Jake make this one of the best Christmas stories I've ever read.

Rating: 4 ½ out of 5

Wow! I loved this book so much! A crabby nasty man gets taught a lesson about how he should treat other people. Such a different story line. Very unexpected and delightfully enjoyable. But I would expect nothing else from Mr. Thomas.

This was such a cute take on the Christmas Carol. Ned wasn't quite as bad as the scrooge but He was a bit gruff. The story is very unusual and yet charming. It's quite funny how Ned is taught a lesson. There is also some tense moments to tame down the funny parts and The romance or should I say sex is mostly offstage.

I adored Jake but I have to say I also felt compassion for Ned. I loved how the story is like the Christmas Carol but not at the same time. I sure would like to see this one in movie form!