New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe explores the meaning of the Christmas season through the struggles of a veteran returning home with post-traumatic stress disorder in her new novel, “A Lowcountry Christmas.”

Set in the author’s familiar lowcountry of South Carolina, this work proves redemption can emerge in the midst of dire circumstances and shows the powerful influence a service dog can have in that process.

The book’s main character is inspired by a veteran and service dog Monroe met in the Wounded Warrior Odyssey Program at Florida’s Dolphin Research Center where she conducting book research. The story revolves around Taylor, a spiritually wounded veteran and his 10-year-old brother Miller, who is excited for his brother’s return from Afghanistan to their coastal town. However, Taylor’s PTSD — evidenced by episodes of anger, isolation and night terrors — complicates an already stressed family predicament.

The lack of financial resources (his father’s shrimping business has become nonoperational) prevents Miller from the gift of a dog he desperately wants and the purchase of a Christmas tree.

The final blow comes with the arrival of Taylor’s service dog, Thor, while Miller still yearns for a dog. Frustrated by the unhappy circumstances, the young boy goes into Marion National Forest to cut a tree for Christmas with only Thor for company. When Miller’s journey becomes a misadventure, the family and Taylor in particular, face the challenge of coming together to revive their bonds and remember the importance of Christmas, giving of oneself and thinking of others.

Monroe will discuss her tale at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at the Hall County Public Library System & Piedmont Regional Library System at 6488 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch.

The free program is open to the public. Books will be available for purchase and signing.