Ever Near

Four Advent candles, two teens, a Yule Ball, a grief anniversary, and a quest for the perfect gift.Christmastime is here and for Dani Deane, the season only brings memories of spending last December in the ICU, watching her dad die. But trying to hide her holiday phobia from her boyfriend is making life a lot more complicated. To truly heal, she will have to face the pain and lean into her faith. Can she learn to trust God-and Theo-to stick by her as she seeks to find joy again?In the bleak midwinter, Theo Wescott is watching his girlfriend Dani slip away again. The anniversary of her dad's death has turned the holidays into a minefield. The race is on to find the perfect present that will bring her comfort and joy. But getting her best friend's help with his elaborate plan threatens to derail his relationship with Dani. Will patiently waiting to reveal his ultimate surprise bring the cheer he hopes, or will it be a triggering epic failure? Laurel Garver holds degrees in English and journalism and earns a living as a magazine editor. She is a mosaic artist who enjoys quirky independent films, word games, British television, and Celtic music. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and daughter. An arty, urban Christian teen navigates the storms of loss, first love, and family crises. Along the way, she wrestles with God to find hope in dark times and discovers how those closest to us can often surprise us.