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The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast #1
Where Grace Appears
Ashamed of being duped by her handsome psychology professor, Josie Martin returns to Maine too proud to admit her foolishness to those closest to her. As the one-year anniversary of her father’s death approaches, she seeks solace in an old friend, Tripp Colton, and a new business venture that will prove to herself and her loved ones that she is still capable of success despite her overwhelming failure.
When Josie announces she will not return to school to finish her graduate degree but wishes to remain in Camden to help her mother achieve a lifelong dream, the entire family gets behind her idea to open and run a bed and breakfast inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House. Even Tripp gets excited about restoring Josie’s great-aunt's Victorian home for the purpose, but when Josie’s unexpected news is revealed, their friendship and the new feelings blooming between them are threatened.
As summer gives way to fall, Josie struggles with decisions regarding her family’s future, dealing with past mistakes she cannot run from, and her feelings for Tripp. When the opportunity for grace comes along, will she take it? Or will she continue to allow her failures to define her worth?
A contemporary twist on the well-loved classic, Little Women, readers will fall in love with the Martin family—Maggie, Josie, Lizzie, Bronson, Amie, and their mother Hannah—each trying to find their own way in the world and each discovering that love, home, and hope are closer than they appear.
When Josie announces she will not return to school to finish her graduate degree but wishes to remain in Camden to help her mother achieve a lifelong dream, the entire family gets behind her idea to open and run a bed and breakfast inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House. Even Tripp gets excited about restoring Josie’s great-aunt's Victorian home for the purpose, but when Josie’s unexpected news is revealed, their friendship and the new feelings blooming between them are threatened.
As summer gives way to fall, Josie struggles with decisions regarding her family’s future, dealing with past mistakes she cannot run from, and her feelings for Tripp. When the opportunity for grace comes along, will she take it? Or will she continue to allow her failures to define her worth?
A contemporary twist on the well-loved classic, Little Women, readers will fall in love with the Martin family—Maggie, Josie, Lizzie, Bronson, Amie, and their mother Hannah—each trying to find their own way in the world and each discovering that love, home, and hope are closer than they appear.
308 pages, Paperback
First published April 15, 2021
About the author
Heidi Chiavaroli
15 books1,008 followersHeidi Chiavaroli is a hope-inspired storyteller writing from the deep curiosity of her own heart. Her debut novel, Freedom's Ring, was a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist, a Romantic Times Top Pick, and a Booklist Top Ten Romance Debut. Her Carol award-winning novel, The Orchard House, inspired her to create The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series, a contemporary twist on Little Women. Heidi makes her home in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons. Visit her online at heidichiavaroli.com.
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April 17, 2021I'm so excited to introduce readers to Book 1 in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series! This is romantic women's fiction with a Little Women twist.
Ever since I completed research for my dual timeline novel, The Orchard House, I wondered if I could really be done with Louisa May Alcott and her Little Women. This new series, it seems, is the result of that wondering.
This book features Josie Martin and was SO fun to write. I loved writing about a heroine who mirrors Jo March, and yet tries so very hard not to. Josie feels her failures deeply, and loves deeply. She's ashamed of being duped by her handsome psychology professor, and returns home too proud to admit her foolishness to those closest to her, including the man who’s loved her since they were kids.
I hope you enjoy the Martin family—how they struggle, how they learn, how they love one another. It's been fun being in their company during these pandemic days, and I look forward to continuing the adventure with you.
Happy reading, dear readers!
Ever since I completed research for my dual timeline novel, The Orchard House, I wondered if I could really be done with Louisa May Alcott and her Little Women. This new series, it seems, is the result of that wondering.
This book features Josie Martin and was SO fun to write. I loved writing about a heroine who mirrors Jo March, and yet tries so very hard not to. Josie feels her failures deeply, and loves deeply. She's ashamed of being duped by her handsome psychology professor, and returns home too proud to admit her foolishness to those closest to her, including the man who’s loved her since they were kids.
I hope you enjoy the Martin family—how they struggle, how they learn, how they love one another. It's been fun being in their company during these pandemic days, and I look forward to continuing the adventure with you.
Happy reading, dear readers!
April 4, 2021
Heidi Chiavaroli has shown her talent as an author of time slip novels. And now a new adventure...a contemporary series.
The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series is about the Martin family with four daughters named after the characters in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women.
The first of the series, Where Grace Appears, is primarily about Josie. While fulfilling her educational dreams in New York, Josie falls briefly for a professor. She returns home to Maine and develops the idea of how to make her mother's dream of opening a bed and breakfast a reality. Josie begins to question her own dreams as well.
The characters in this novel are fabulous and the bits of humor had me laughing out loud. It's tough to write a review on this novel without spoilers. Where Grace Appears is a lovely novel about broken people, the importance of friends and family, forgiveness and forging new paths. Delightful!
I look forward to the next in the series. My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series is about the Martin family with four daughters named after the characters in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women.
The first of the series, Where Grace Appears, is primarily about Josie. While fulfilling her educational dreams in New York, Josie falls briefly for a professor. She returns home to Maine and develops the idea of how to make her mother's dream of opening a bed and breakfast a reality. Josie begins to question her own dreams as well.
The characters in this novel are fabulous and the bits of humor had me laughing out loud. It's tough to write a review on this novel without spoilers. Where Grace Appears is a lovely novel about broken people, the importance of friends and family, forgiveness and forging new paths. Delightful!
I look forward to the next in the series. My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
April 3, 2021
I've been in on this book since its beginning :) and I think everyone's going to love this contemporary twist on Little Women, the allusions are just right, not over the top, but just plain fun when you catch them. And of course I like that it's "womancy" fiction, enough romance to keep a romantic at heart happy and all the women's fiction stuff that Heidi's great at writing. A great kick off to this series. Even though I happen to know what's coming up next and all the way down the line, I can't wait to read them in their book forms because Heidi's a beautiful writer and I'm curious on how she'll make everything come to life!
P.S. Tripp Colton's a dream!
P.S. Tripp Colton's a dream!
April 23, 2021
Where Grace Appears is Heidi Chiavaroli's first foray into a series, as well as an entirely contemporary story - and she knocks it out of the park. It's official. Heidi Chiavaroli can do no wrong. I could not put this book down. I fell in love with these characters, and the wonderful idea of a Louisa May Alcott-inspired bed and breakfast. The draw of these characters, especially Josie, is that she is flawed, yet has so much to offer. The relationship between all of Martin siblings, as well as their mother, Hannah, comes across so realistic and genuine, even the bits that don't go so smoothly.
And, ah, the romance. This story is a great mix of women's fiction and contemporary romance. Plenty of personal growth and development on Josie's part, but we also get the see things from Tripp's point of view occasionally, and even another character who I mostly wanted to dislike at first, but couldn't help feel invested in their struggle.
I really love a story of a fresh start, one that says, yeah, actually you can go home again. Sometimes something unexpected is there that was previously unseen or taken for granted. I found this story to be fresh and beautiful. I'm so eager to read the next book and am thrilled that there are going to be several books in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required.
And, ah, the romance. This story is a great mix of women's fiction and contemporary romance. Plenty of personal growth and development on Josie's part, but we also get the see things from Tripp's point of view occasionally, and even another character who I mostly wanted to dislike at first, but couldn't help feel invested in their struggle.
I really love a story of a fresh start, one that says, yeah, actually you can go home again. Sometimes something unexpected is there that was previously unseen or taken for granted. I found this story to be fresh and beautiful. I'm so eager to read the next book and am thrilled that there are going to be several books in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required.
January 17, 2023
Wonderful beginning to a Heartwarming Series
Where Grace Appears Is full of scenes and characters you will love. The theme of love and commitment to family even when going through challenging times made it a very meaningful and inspiring story. The romance was clean, inspiring, and very well done. Well written and highly recommended. I look forward to reading more books in this series!
Where Grace Appears Is full of scenes and characters you will love. The theme of love and commitment to family even when going through challenging times made it a very meaningful and inspiring story. The romance was clean, inspiring, and very well done. Well written and highly recommended. I look forward to reading more books in this series!
January 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! The nods to Little Women made it feel sweet and cozy, and I love the closeness of the Martin family. I really enjoyed following Josie and Tripp. There were some up-and-down moments, but they didn't let their problems sit for too long and were willing to work out their issues. The faith of the characters and the spiritual threads felt very authentic, and there is just the right amount of depth without making the story too heavy. I definitely will be reading the next books in this series!
September 21, 2023
I loved it! The story of these sisters - named for the March sisters, bringing their mom's dream to life, with the help of an elderly aunt, and the love of one man. That family does not always mean blood, that friendship isn't something that can come through time, and that happiness is not always so far away. I cannot wait to continue this series.
April 10, 2021
4.5 stars for this first book in the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series. This series follows on the heels of the authors dual timeline novel "The Orchard House" and fans of that novel will be glad to see some characters from that book make a cameo appearance towards the end of this one (if you haven't read it, you won't miss anything, but if you have, it is a bonus!). While the series title itself offers up some "spoilers" on how things will progress, this book is a great beginning to this series about a family that resembles the March family from Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. Not having read that classic myself, I wasn't privy to all of the similarities and maybe some of the hidden gems within this novel, but even without that history, I was still able to enjoy this book on its own merit. This book follows Josie, the "Jo March" character as she returns home from a semester at grad school. Her time away has been tumultuous and she re-learns the value of love and family. The storyline was excellent and the character growth throughout was phenomenal. Having lost my dad this past December to covid, the grieving of the family's father in this book was hard for me to read, but also good for me to read. This book sets the stage well for this series and I look forward to the other books! Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
April 11, 2023
This is a fun beginning to a promising new series.
I can’t wait to read more!
Full review to come
I can’t wait to read more!
Full review to come
April 22, 2021
Whenever I would set this book down to do something else, I would find myself thinking of the various characters in this story and what they were going through. If I wasn’t reading this book, I was thinking about them and wondering what was going to happen in lives of each one!
Josie returned home feeling like a fool. She made some bad decisions while she was away at graduate school and did things that were out of character for her because she was in a haze of grief after her father’s death. It was apparent that as Josie returned home, she was beginning to come out of the fog that she had been in and she regretted quite a few things, including the way she had reacted to her best friend, Tripp Colton’s, profession of love before she left home months earlier.
This story contained all the messy emotions that can come about as family members walk through life together. There were hurt feelings, missed opportunities, unrequited love, stubbornness, confusion about the future, and so much more. Josie and Tripp were likable characters who had a lot to work through before there could be a chance for a future for them together. I liked the steadfast nature of Tripp’s love for Josie. Even when he stumbled or reacted out of hurt, his love remained strong.
I am looking very forward to the next book in the series, which will feature Josie’s married sister, Maggie, and her new family. It was clear in this book that Maggie and her husband were struggling some in their relationship and it will be nice to return to the bed and breakfast and see how things work out for them, too.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Josie returned home feeling like a fool. She made some bad decisions while she was away at graduate school and did things that were out of character for her because she was in a haze of grief after her father’s death. It was apparent that as Josie returned home, she was beginning to come out of the fog that she had been in and she regretted quite a few things, including the way she had reacted to her best friend, Tripp Colton’s, profession of love before she left home months earlier.
This story contained all the messy emotions that can come about as family members walk through life together. There were hurt feelings, missed opportunities, unrequited love, stubbornness, confusion about the future, and so much more. Josie and Tripp were likable characters who had a lot to work through before there could be a chance for a future for them together. I liked the steadfast nature of Tripp’s love for Josie. Even when he stumbled or reacted out of hurt, his love remained strong.
I am looking very forward to the next book in the series, which will feature Josie’s married sister, Maggie, and her new family. It was clear in this book that Maggie and her husband were struggling some in their relationship and it will be nice to return to the bed and breakfast and see how things work out for them, too.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 15, 2021
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Where Grace Appears is the first book I have read with a twist on the Classic Little Women. I grew up reading Little Women so I was excited to see what this book would be. It’s also my first book by Heidi Chiavaroli, and I have no idea why, this book is Amazing. Now I’ll have to go buy all of Heidi’s books so I can read then all!
The characters here were wonderfully crafted by Chiavaroli are so realistic and believable. Sometimes I felt I was talking to a family of old friends. I quickly fell in love with the Martin family and especially Josie. My heart felt so bad for her because of everything she has been through. I’m sure glad she has Tripp for support, and man, what support this sweet guy is. I kept thinking is this guy for real, and then I would remember I was reading a novel. I don’t like giving anything away, even if it’s in the description so I’ll just say, if you love Little Women, Where Grace Appears is a MUST for you. And if you enjoy a good clean historical fiction with faith woven throughout the story, you MUST read this as well. I know you will enjoy this read as much as I did. Be sure to check out all three books in the series. For me, Where Grace Appears is a solid Five Stars. Wish I could give it more. I can’t wait to read books two and three in the series.
A special thanks to the author Heidi Chiavaroli for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Where Grace Appears is the first book I have read with a twist on the Classic Little Women. I grew up reading Little Women so I was excited to see what this book would be. It’s also my first book by Heidi Chiavaroli, and I have no idea why, this book is Amazing. Now I’ll have to go buy all of Heidi’s books so I can read then all!
The characters here were wonderfully crafted by Chiavaroli are so realistic and believable. Sometimes I felt I was talking to a family of old friends. I quickly fell in love with the Martin family and especially Josie. My heart felt so bad for her because of everything she has been through. I’m sure glad she has Tripp for support, and man, what support this sweet guy is. I kept thinking is this guy for real, and then I would remember I was reading a novel. I don’t like giving anything away, even if it’s in the description so I’ll just say, if you love Little Women, Where Grace Appears is a MUST for you. And if you enjoy a good clean historical fiction with faith woven throughout the story, you MUST read this as well. I know you will enjoy this read as much as I did. Be sure to check out all three books in the series. For me, Where Grace Appears is a solid Five Stars. Wish I could give it more. I can’t wait to read books two and three in the series.
A special thanks to the author Heidi Chiavaroli for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
April 6, 2021
Where Grace Appears by Heidi Chiavaroli is an excellent fictional novel that is the first in what I expect to be an amazing series titled: An Orchard House Bed and Breakfast. This series is a contemporary twist and adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women.
Little Women is my most beloved and treasured book in existence, so I have extremely high expectations for any novel that involves its characters or concepts. That is a tall order, and Ms. Chiavaroli definitely exceeds those expectations. I really loved this book.
Here we are introduced to the warm, loving, complex, real, and fascinating Martin family. Through the novel we meet Josie, Lizzie, Maggie, Bronson, Amie, and Hannah. All are well-drawn, complex, flawed, but likable and realistic characters. All have their own side stories, hopes, dreams, insecurities, concerns, and each add a vital piece to the puzzle.
This book focuses on Josie, the mystery involving her return to small-town Camden, her quest for finding her own purpose, her faith, forgiveness, love, the loss of her father a year ago, and the steps that she takes into the uncertain future of a new Bed and Breakfast. The additional obstacles of closing the distance between her and her family and sorting out her tangled feelings when seeing her friends and family again also add another layer of complexity to the narrative.
I loved Josie. I enjoyed her story and the transitions and changes that take place in regards to her character as the novel progresses. I really felt as if I was rooting for her from the very beginning. I love the mix of emotions, the hope, the faith, and the positivity that peaks through as the story goes forward. It is so promising and uplifting.
I am super excited about this series and cannot wait to see what each book entails as a new member of the family will be the centerpiece of each new story. Is it Maggie’s turn for the next book?
I truly loved this book, cannot recommend it enough, and I have to say it will be one of my favorites this year. I am so glad the story continues!
5/5 stars
Thank you to the author for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, and Instagram accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/22/21.
Little Women is my most beloved and treasured book in existence, so I have extremely high expectations for any novel that involves its characters or concepts. That is a tall order, and Ms. Chiavaroli definitely exceeds those expectations. I really loved this book.
Here we are introduced to the warm, loving, complex, real, and fascinating Martin family. Through the novel we meet Josie, Lizzie, Maggie, Bronson, Amie, and Hannah. All are well-drawn, complex, flawed, but likable and realistic characters. All have their own side stories, hopes, dreams, insecurities, concerns, and each add a vital piece to the puzzle.
This book focuses on Josie, the mystery involving her return to small-town Camden, her quest for finding her own purpose, her faith, forgiveness, love, the loss of her father a year ago, and the steps that she takes into the uncertain future of a new Bed and Breakfast. The additional obstacles of closing the distance between her and her family and sorting out her tangled feelings when seeing her friends and family again also add another layer of complexity to the narrative.
I loved Josie. I enjoyed her story and the transitions and changes that take place in regards to her character as the novel progresses. I really felt as if I was rooting for her from the very beginning. I love the mix of emotions, the hope, the faith, and the positivity that peaks through as the story goes forward. It is so promising and uplifting.
I am super excited about this series and cannot wait to see what each book entails as a new member of the family will be the centerpiece of each new story. Is it Maggie’s turn for the next book?
I truly loved this book, cannot recommend it enough, and I have to say it will be one of my favorites this year. I am so glad the story continues!
5/5 stars
Thank you to the author for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, and Instagram accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/22/21.
Shelved as 'ebook-own-toread'
July 7, 2023FREE on Kindle
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April 29, 2021
Where Grace Appears, by Heidi Chiavaroli, is the first book in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series. This engaging novel is cleverly written with characters and themes that are delightfully reminiscent of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. Featuring contemporary plot twists, genuine humor, and sweet romance, this book is touching and truly entertaining.
Throughout this novel, the enduring themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances are sincerely heartfelt and deeply inspiring. The development of the plot is very good, thoroughly engaging the reader page after page. The characters are authentic, and their dialogue is seasoned with real-life wit and wisdom. The characters are certainly relatable and intriguing as they pursue their dreams, reflect on their goals, and soften their hearts to unexpected possibilities and priorities. At all times, this novel succeeds in finding just the right combination of comedy, drama, romance, and faith, making the story wholly readable and enjoyable.
This novel is heartwarming, funny, romantic, surprising, inspiring, and utterly endearing. It is a promising start to a new series. Where Grace Appears is memorable and moving from the first paragraph to the last, and I eagerly recommend it to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this book from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Throughout this novel, the enduring themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances are sincerely heartfelt and deeply inspiring. The development of the plot is very good, thoroughly engaging the reader page after page. The characters are authentic, and their dialogue is seasoned with real-life wit and wisdom. The characters are certainly relatable and intriguing as they pursue their dreams, reflect on their goals, and soften their hearts to unexpected possibilities and priorities. At all times, this novel succeeds in finding just the right combination of comedy, drama, romance, and faith, making the story wholly readable and enjoyable.
This novel is heartwarming, funny, romantic, surprising, inspiring, and utterly endearing. It is a promising start to a new series. Where Grace Appears is memorable and moving from the first paragraph to the last, and I eagerly recommend it to all readers.
*I was given a copy of this book from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
September 19, 2022
Radiantly wonderful. I knew from the first line this book would be good. The story was well paced and the characters beautifully crafted. The Martin family are people I would love to be friends with and visit their B&B. I immediately wanted to continue the series after the last page. The ending was a nice surprise. Since this was my introduction to this author, I look forward to reading her other releases.
December 3, 2021
This book was so good. It drew me in from the very beginning. I sat down to read for a few minutes and before I knew it, I was 150 pages in and had to force myself to put it down. Tripp Colton is a dreamboat. Josie’s family is so lovable, even cranky Aunt Pris. Their problems are so realistic, and the grace that they learn to give can only come from the Lord. This is a really great, well written, inspirational romance. I hope to read more of the series soon.
August 14, 2021
An entertaining first installment of the modern "little women" story. I enjoyed it!
March 31, 2021
I loved Where Grace Appears by Author Heidi Chiavaroli, I could not stop turning pages! With every twist and turn, I enjoyed it even more.
I fell in love with the Martin family (Maggie, Josie, Lizzie, Bronson, Aime, and their mother Hannah in this contemporary twist on Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Josie returns with a secret from college in NY to her home in Camden Maine. They all are approaching the one-year anniversary of the death of their dad/husband, trying to figure out the next step in their lives.
"While I admired Dad with a fierceness I couldn't explain, it was Mom who had always been there for us. Mom who could be counted on." I love the direction they take to help fulfill their mother's dream, and the individual talents they each bring to make this dream a reality. I got a kick out of their crotchety Aunt Pris.
Where Grace Appears focuses on Josie Martin, the mess she's made of her life, and her life-long best friend Tripp Colton. I love how hard he works at trying to show her unconditional love. "Well, no was his chance to prove it: love despite the ugly. The kind of love that was much more than a nice, fuzzy feeling. More than lust. But genuine compassion. Willing the good of another. Being prepared to sacrifice."
For wanting to be out of her small town and in college in NY striving towards her professional goals, Josie comes full circle in what she finds most important.
I am delighted that this is only the first in The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series. I cannot wait to read the next story. I would totally binge-read them all now if I could.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read an early copy of When Grace Appears. I highly recommend it. All opinions are my own.
I fell in love with the Martin family (Maggie, Josie, Lizzie, Bronson, Aime, and their mother Hannah in this contemporary twist on Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Josie returns with a secret from college in NY to her home in Camden Maine. They all are approaching the one-year anniversary of the death of their dad/husband, trying to figure out the next step in their lives.
"While I admired Dad with a fierceness I couldn't explain, it was Mom who had always been there for us. Mom who could be counted on." I love the direction they take to help fulfill their mother's dream, and the individual talents they each bring to make this dream a reality. I got a kick out of their crotchety Aunt Pris.
Where Grace Appears focuses on Josie Martin, the mess she's made of her life, and her life-long best friend Tripp Colton. I love how hard he works at trying to show her unconditional love. "Well, no was his chance to prove it: love despite the ugly. The kind of love that was much more than a nice, fuzzy feeling. More than lust. But genuine compassion. Willing the good of another. Being prepared to sacrifice."
For wanting to be out of her small town and in college in NY striving towards her professional goals, Josie comes full circle in what she finds most important.
I am delighted that this is only the first in The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series. I cannot wait to read the next story. I would totally binge-read them all now if I could.
Thank you to the author for the chance to read an early copy of When Grace Appears. I highly recommend it. All opinions are my own.
July 24, 2023
It’s been said that all good novels start with a secret, and Where Grace Appears certainly backs that view. Josie Martin has one year to go to achieve her dream of a master’s in clinical psychology in New York, but now she’s home and hiding a secret: she’s pregnant to one of her professors, an old friend of her deceased father. And Professor Finn Becker wants nothing to do with Josie or their baby.
Tripp Colton is the man who has loved her since forever, the man whose marriage proposal she turned down last year. Now he’s managing his grandfather’s construction business in Camden, Maine, and trying to convince himself to move on from Josie. But he can’t.
I admired Tripp for being up-front with Josie about his feelings for her. He loves her, and he’ll wait as long as it takes for her to return the feelings. And I wanted him and Josie to get together, just as soon as Josie shares her secret with him.
She plans to tell Tripp just as soon as she’s told her family, but that goes predictably wrong (thanks, small-town gossip). Without wanting to add spoilers, Tripp’s reaction was both unbelievable and everything it should be: a perfect picture of unconditional love underpinned by forgiveness.
God loves us with unconditional love, and this is one of the few contemporary Christian romances that shows the tough side of unconditional love. Tripp almost seemed too good to be believable until I remembered that’s how God loves us, and how he calls us to love others.
Where Grace Appears is a departure from Heidi Chiavaroli’s dual-timeline stories, but does link back to one of her previous novels. The Orchard House is set in Louisa May Alcott’s home, and Where Grace Appears is set in a house of the same name, and features a family named for the Alcott family (and with similar personality traits).
Little Women fans will enjoy spotting all the Little Women references. However, you don’t need to be a fan to enjoy the story.
Where Grace Appears is a strong contemporary romance that hits all the expected small-town notes while showing an enviable demonstration of Christian forgiveness and unconditional love.
Tripp Colton is the man who has loved her since forever, the man whose marriage proposal she turned down last year. Now he’s managing his grandfather’s construction business in Camden, Maine, and trying to convince himself to move on from Josie. But he can’t.
I admired Tripp for being up-front with Josie about his feelings for her. He loves her, and he’ll wait as long as it takes for her to return the feelings. And I wanted him and Josie to get together, just as soon as Josie shares her secret with him.
She plans to tell Tripp just as soon as she’s told her family, but that goes predictably wrong (thanks, small-town gossip). Without wanting to add spoilers, Tripp’s reaction was both unbelievable and everything it should be: a perfect picture of unconditional love underpinned by forgiveness.
God loves us with unconditional love, and this is one of the few contemporary Christian romances that shows the tough side of unconditional love. Tripp almost seemed too good to be believable until I remembered that’s how God loves us, and how he calls us to love others.
Where Grace Appears is a departure from Heidi Chiavaroli’s dual-timeline stories, but does link back to one of her previous novels. The Orchard House is set in Louisa May Alcott’s home, and Where Grace Appears is set in a house of the same name, and features a family named for the Alcott family (and with similar personality traits).
Little Women fans will enjoy spotting all the Little Women references. However, you don’t need to be a fan to enjoy the story.
Where Grace Appears is a strong contemporary romance that hits all the expected small-town notes while showing an enviable demonstration of Christian forgiveness and unconditional love.
September 21, 2022
Okay, so this book is hard for me to review because parts of it I absolutely loved and other parts I did not enjoy at all. But the general theme of "radical, scandalous grace" was extremely beautiful and won me over in the end. The other underlying message was the theme that all life is a blessing and precious no matter how it was conceived. I firmly stand behind this message, and Heidi did such a wonderful job of displaying the truth in this area.
The main characters took a long time for me to like, but there are so many secondary characters that I loved as soon as they were introduced like Bronson, Esther, and Hannah. I will probably finish the series because of how much I loved these other people and want to know more of their stories.
The first half of the book as the story develops was the hardest for me to read. I felt like I was just enduring it. The snippets of Finn's life were not scenes that I wanted to read. And when Tripp finds out about Josie's pregnancy, there is a scene that felt like it was going to go very badly. Thankfully, Heidi turned the story around, and the second half of the book was much more enjoyable to read. There was also some language that I won't personally use and don't really like to read either.
I appreciated the faith elements that were included in the story but felt like the message of hope in Christ could have been presented even more. But maybe I need to just keep reading the rest of the series.
All in all, this was a good story, and it had a wonderful pro-life message. I would not recommend this book for young readers.
The main characters took a long time for me to like, but there are so many secondary characters that I loved as soon as they were introduced like Bronson, Esther, and Hannah. I will probably finish the series because of how much I loved these other people and want to know more of their stories.
The first half of the book as the story develops was the hardest for me to read. I felt like I was just enduring it. The snippets of Finn's life were not scenes that I wanted to read. And when Tripp finds out about Josie's pregnancy, there is a scene that felt like it was going to go very badly. Thankfully, Heidi turned the story around, and the second half of the book was much more enjoyable to read. There was also some language that I won't personally use and don't really like to read either.
I appreciated the faith elements that were included in the story but felt like the message of hope in Christ could have been presented even more. But maybe I need to just keep reading the rest of the series.
All in all, this was a good story, and it had a wonderful pro-life message. I would not recommend this book for young readers.
September 29, 2021
This is a story of a young woman, Josie Martin, who comes home after a year away at grad school, a year when she made life changing choices trying to fill the hole in her heart left after her father's death. These choices affected not only Josie but others close to her as well. With the help of her supportive family and her life-long friend Tripp who has always loved her, she learns about forgiveness, true love, and grace. Life gets very messy and complicated and dreams changed for Josie as she helps her mother's dream of a bed and breakfast come true. I am glad there are more books to come about the Martin family and look forward to reading them. I received a complimentary copy of Where Grace Appears. All thoughts are my own.
April 22, 2021
I am so excited about this new series from Heidi Chiavaroli! And Where Grace Appears is a fabulous beginning! There is so much depth to this story, I'm not even sure where to begin. This book is filled with mistakes...so many mistakes...life altering mistakes. But it's also filled with love, joy, redemption, forgiveness and best of all, grace.
Tripp and Josie's relationship is one of love, friendship, memories...and regret. Things they'd said and wished they hadn't, things they'd done and wished they could undo. But in our weakness He is strong! I loved the depth of their friendship! I also really appreciated Chiavaroli's ability to show love as a commitment. A choice. It's not always easy, but when a commitment is made and kept, it's a beautiful thing!
Can we just talk for a sec about the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast!? Wow! I am desperate to visit this place! To have the rooms come to life from the vivid imagery I have in my mind's eye. I want a get-away to this B & B. And I really want to taste Hannah's cooking! Trust me, you will too!
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series! Which thankfully comes out in a couple months. Cannot wait!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Tripp and Josie's relationship is one of love, friendship, memories...and regret. Things they'd said and wished they hadn't, things they'd done and wished they could undo. But in our weakness He is strong! I loved the depth of their friendship! I also really appreciated Chiavaroli's ability to show love as a commitment. A choice. It's not always easy, but when a commitment is made and kept, it's a beautiful thing!
Can we just talk for a sec about the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast!? Wow! I am desperate to visit this place! To have the rooms come to life from the vivid imagery I have in my mind's eye. I want a get-away to this B & B. And I really want to taste Hannah's cooking! Trust me, you will too!
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series! Which thankfully comes out in a couple months. Cannot wait!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 25, 2022
Well, at least I can finally say I've read a whole Chiavaroi book. The first two I tried I just couldn't get into.
While I loved the themes of redemption, grace, and Louisa May Alcott, I still just didn't adore the story. I mean, it had so many elements I loved, but I never fully felt engaged. Maybe this is more because of where I am than the author's fault.
I think one thing that kept me from adoring this book was feeling like the faith element stopped just short of being helpful. Josie realizes her past wrongs and is sorry for them, but there isn't clear repentance toward God for violating His rules. Others have the same issue. People talk about having faith in God, but other than feelings of peace, it often doesn't seem to build trust or hope. I like books that are realistic about struggle, but this one just fell a little short for me.
Content notes: Minor spoilers ahead...
While I loved the themes of redemption, grace, and Louisa May Alcott, I still just didn't adore the story. I mean, it had so many elements I loved, but I never fully felt engaged. Maybe this is more because of where I am than the author's fault.
I think one thing that kept me from adoring this book was feeling like the faith element stopped just short of being helpful. Josie realizes her past wrongs and is sorry for them, but there isn't clear repentance toward God for violating His rules. Others have the same issue. People talk about having faith in God, but other than feelings of peace, it often doesn't seem to build trust or hope. I like books that are realistic about struggle, but this one just fell a little short for me.
Content notes: Minor spoilers ahead...
June 25, 2024
Cute. Endearing. Wonderfully cast of characters that will populate future novels. I love the setting. I want to stay at The Orchard Bed and Breakfast. Chiavaroli did a wonderful job at diving into the hurt of the family after loosing their father. I love how each character is not perfect and everything works out perfectly for them. She crafted characters that were realistic and transformative. A good start to this series. I can't wait to read more.
February 7, 2024
amazing book!
I so enjoyed this beautiful romantic story of Josie and Tripp. There was also a love triangle and I liked reading the 3 POVs. This is the first in the series and I look forward to reading all of them. The Little Women references really made this book a hit for me :). I highly recommend this amazing book!
I so enjoyed this beautiful romantic story of Josie and Tripp. There was also a love triangle and I liked reading the 3 POVs. This is the first in the series and I look forward to reading all of them. The Little Women references really made this book a hit for me :). I highly recommend this amazing book!
October 19, 2023
Contemporary Christian romance set in Camden, Maine. The plot has frequent references and connections to Little Women. This first in a series features Josie (Jo) but other installments are centered on each of her siblings, Maggie (Meg), Lizzie (Beth), Amie (Amy) and Bronson. Sweet story of forgiveness and second chances.
April 14, 2024
As a Little Women fan, I was up for what I heard was a contemporary take on the book. It does have elements of the classic in the family structure and some of the characteristics of the characters, but this book definitely is its own story and the characters take their own paths. I liked it enough to pick up the next book.
April 13, 2021
Heidi Chiavaroli's contemporary twist on the beloved novel Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is a definite winner! Even for those readers who have not read Little Women, Where Grace Appears is a fabulous novel that can be cherished on its own. Readers will be introduced to the Martin family, with daughter Josie playing a starring role in this novel. Her struggles and decisions she makes while attending graduate school as her personal life begins to take a shocking turn are very realistic and relevant. Heidi Chiavaroli does not shy away from the fact that Christians are not perfect and life is often messy.
Heidi Chiavaroli is one of my favorite women's fiction and time-slip/historical authors, and I love her foray into strictly contemporary with this new series. While the emphasis is on Josie's character struggles and growth, readers will also enjoy the romantic relationships touched upon in Where Grace Appears . This novel is highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Heidi Chiavaroli is one of my favorite women's fiction and time-slip/historical authors, and I love her foray into strictly contemporary with this new series. While the emphasis is on Josie's character struggles and growth, readers will also enjoy the romantic relationships touched upon in Where Grace Appears . This novel is highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.
May 2, 2021
Loved this charming story created with the backdrop of the Little Women characters. Will definitely be checking out the next story in line!
April 19, 2021
Where Grace Appears by Heidi Chiavaroli is the first book in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series. I was absolutely taken with the idea behind this series before I turned the first page knowing that it was inspired by the March family in Little Women and would have snippets of Louisa May Alcott here and there. And I must say, that after reading the first novel, I am completely enamored with the Martin family and their Orchard House Bed and Breakfast.
I loved Josie and Tripp’s story. It’s far from perfect. Mistakes were made. Royal ones. Life-changing ones. But Josie’s story is one of humility and redemption. I loved how the can-do attitude that had served her so well in achieving her goals played a huge role in her standing up for herself and continuing down the path of her consequences. Josie is strong, ambitious, and a dreamer--much like her name’s sake, Jo March. She is easy to love and easy to cheer on in her struggles, even as she drives you crazy in her opinions about Tripp.
Tripp is quite the catch. Tall. Strong. A hard worker and a good, godly man. The only catch? He’s head over heels for Josie Martin. But even that makes him the perfect hero. His quest to love Josie with unconditional love is truly astounding. He is also far from perfect, but his willingness to admit his mistakes and stay true to his heart more than makes up for it.
Overall, I loved this story. Watching Josie embrace her mistakes and let God make the most of them. Watching the Martin family reach for an old dream (and a few new ones) together and heal their hearts and their relationships. Sitting patiently by while Tripps worked his magic on Josie. I cannot tell you how many times I laughed AND cried while I read this story. It is so real and raw, and yet it is ordinary life.
Fans of contemporary Christian fiction, like Becky Wade or Courtney Walsh, will enjoy this story. I know I am looking forward to the next book in the series soon!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I loved Josie and Tripp’s story. It’s far from perfect. Mistakes were made. Royal ones. Life-changing ones. But Josie’s story is one of humility and redemption. I loved how the can-do attitude that had served her so well in achieving her goals played a huge role in her standing up for herself and continuing down the path of her consequences. Josie is strong, ambitious, and a dreamer--much like her name’s sake, Jo March. She is easy to love and easy to cheer on in her struggles, even as she drives you crazy in her opinions about Tripp.
Tripp is quite the catch. Tall. Strong. A hard worker and a good, godly man. The only catch? He’s head over heels for Josie Martin. But even that makes him the perfect hero. His quest to love Josie with unconditional love is truly astounding. He is also far from perfect, but his willingness to admit his mistakes and stay true to his heart more than makes up for it.
Overall, I loved this story. Watching Josie embrace her mistakes and let God make the most of them. Watching the Martin family reach for an old dream (and a few new ones) together and heal their hearts and their relationships. Sitting patiently by while Tripps worked his magic on Josie. I cannot tell you how many times I laughed AND cried while I read this story. It is so real and raw, and yet it is ordinary life.
Fans of contemporary Christian fiction, like Becky Wade or Courtney Walsh, will enjoy this story. I know I am looking forward to the next book in the series soon!
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
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