Page 59 of Christmas at Carnton

3. Before reading Christmas at Carnton, were you aware of Women’s Relief Societies and how women from both the South and the North created these organizations to support both the Confederate and Federal soldiers? Had you been living back then, do you think you would have taken part in one of these societies? And in their auctions? Discuss the important role these organizations made in the lives of the soldiers and the differences they made to the women themselves.

4. Did you understand Jake’s reluctance to be a part of the Women’s Relief Society? How did you feel about the newspaper article espousing that women were “best suited for hearth and home” (a common—and even celebrated—Victorian view of the day)? Did you share Aletta’s reaction to that statement? What were your impressions of Jake upon his arrival at Carnton?

5. Come Christmas and other holidays, we tend to especially miss those loved ones who’ve gone on before us. Can you relate to Aletta’s “dreading” Christmas? Have you ever felt that way? If yes, share that experience. Read II Corinthians 5:1–10 and discuss what it means to be “swallowed up by life” as the Scripture is translated in the NLT Bible, as well as what the believer in Christ has to look forward to following the death of the earthly body.

6. As Aletta grows closer to Jake, she harbors fear. Describe her fear and what it stems from. Could you relate? What finally overcomes her fear?

7. What did you think of Tempy’s character and what she said to Aletta in reference to being “left behind” when the rest of the slaves were taken farther South? Were you aware that oftentimes the Federal Army wasn’t all that concerned with freeing the slaves? In ch. 20, Tempy offers counsel to Aletta about her own marriage and about trusting God. Do you share Tempy’s belief? Do you consider God trustworthy? Read Isaiah 26:4, Jeremiah 17:5–8, and 1 Timothy 4:9–10 and discuss.

8. What is the most important lesson Jake learned in the story? What about Aletta? How do you relate?

9. Who were your favorite characters in the novel? Favorite scenes? Any similarities among your group?

10. Besides the precious gift of God’s beloved Son, what’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received?

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[email protected].

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RECIPES FROM

Christmas at Carnton

Aletta’s Southern Pecan Pie

(just like Jake’s mama’s)

1 stick butter, melted

1 cup light corn syrup

1 cup sugar

3 large eggs, slightly beaten

½ teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla

Dash salt

1 cup chopped pecans (plus a few whole pecans for the top)

1 unbaked piecrust (recipe below)

Brown butter in saucepan over low heat until golden brown, being careful not to burn. Let cool. Place remaining ingredients in mixing bowl in order listed and combine well. Blend in browned butter and pour into unbaked piecrust. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 325 degrees and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes.

Aletta’s Old-Fashioned Pie Crusts

(makes two large crusts)