The Gift

This short novel follows the story of Lou, who in a charitable mood gives a job to a mysterious, observant homeless man named Gabe. Not entirely selfless- the job was given in an attempt to make the mailroom a little more efficient- but Lou begins to dislike Gabe and sees him as a possible competitor at his office and all the while Gabe is attempting to subtly guide him towards a path of being a better man.This novel will have you guessing the whole way through. The story of Lou is being shared by an old police officer who is interviewing a suspect on Christmas day- a suspect who has nothing to do with the main characters. The purpose of this is to make the lesson a little more obvious- although I didn't think it was entirely necessary.Overall, this is a quick read that you can have done in a single sitting if you wish, but one that will leave you feeling a little sombre and reflective.

I enjoy Cecelia Aherns books she writes thoughtful and books with very different storylines and this one was no exception and the protagonist was male. Quite a surprising story with a twist but very enjoyable as usual I loved it Olivia R

Stuck with it as the start wasn't too gripping, glad I did.Main body was brilliant, had me guessing what was going on and what would happen, towards the end I started scan reading as I couldn't work out how this brilliant story would end ... unfortunately I was disappointed, readers preference. Not to keen on cheesy inspirational messages, so my fault really as I should have read more reviews before buying.Loved the main guy (if a book can make you feel any sort of emotion for a character I think it's well written) didn't get why it jumped between two story lines, seemed pointless to me in the end.Bought this book to distract me from the stresses of university .. did the job :)

I gave my wife this book for Christmas. she was completely hooked and read it in just a couple of days. During the last chapter she was in floods of tears and then she insisted that I read it. Humouring her at first I started the read the first chapter and then found myself totally hooked. I read it from cover to cover in just two sittings. I could see so much of the character Lou in myself and could relate to the type of business life style he led and how he neglected what was really important. This was a real wake up call to guys like me. I won't spoil the message but this book should be made essential reading for every Manager and placed in every boardroom up and down the country. Excellent. It would also make a great Christmas movie, similar to its a wonderful life.

Easy read for hols, I liked it but my book club members had an opposite to say, so really up to you to read and decide