Book Review: Where Grace Appears by Heidi Chiavaroli

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What is this book about?

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?

My review:

Stories that are inspired by, or retellings of, classic literature can be problematic because the characters are well loved as they are. This contemporary twist did a wonderful job of keeping the essence of the Little Women characters while also standing on its own.

The romance between Josie and Tripp had many bumps along the way and some of them were pretty raw, but in the end, the sacrificial love that developed really pulled at my emotions. As the title indicated, grace was a running theme throughout and I was unprepared for the depth of that inspirational thread. It was so moving. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

What I enjoyed most about this book: 

The story made me emotional

What I didn’t like about this book:

Nothing

Would I recommend this book to others? Definitely, especially for those who love Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Interesting characters, emotional and realistic conflict, hard won romance. This is the first book in the series.

Where can I learn more about this author and their books?

Heidi Chiavaroli, author website

-Loraine Nunley

When Grace Appears by Heidi Chiavaroli (5 out of 5 stars) #amreading #BookReview Share on X

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