Heidi Chiavaroli: The Orchard House

 By Kelly Bridgewater

2001
Abandoned by her own family, Taylor is determined not to mess up her chance at joining the home of her best friend, Victoria Bennett. But despite attending summer camp at Louisa May Alcott's historic Orchard House with Victoria and sharing dreams of becoming famous authors, Taylor struggles to fit in. As she enters college and begins dating, it feels like Taylor is finally finding her place and some stability . . . until Victoria's betrayal changes everything.

1865
While Louisa May Alcott is off traveling the world, Johanna Suhre accepts a job tending Louisa's aging parents and their home in Concord. Soon after arriving at Orchard House, Johanna meets Nathan Bancroft and, ignoring Louisa's words of caution, falls in love and accepts Nathan's proposal. But before long, Johanna experiences her husband's dark side, and she can't hide the bruises that appear.

2019
After receiving news of Lorraine Bennett's cancer diagnosis, Taylor knows she must return home to see her adoptive mother again. Now a successful author, Taylor is determined to spend little time in Concord. Yet she becomes drawn into the story of a woman who lived there centuries before. And through her story, Taylor may just find forgiveness and a place to belong. 

 

My Thoughts:

I have read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott when I was a little teenager. I loved the character of Jo. I scribbled all the time. I had tons of stories in notebooks. Nothing worthwhile to publish, but writing was my outlet. So when Heidi Chiavaroli wrote The Orchard House, a story that takes place at the Alcott’s home, I honestly could not wait to read the story. The story is unique, yet predictable. I adored the struggles that Victoria and Taylor, the modern day characters had to struggle with. While I was not adopted, I understand feeling alone at times. It is probably why I am an introvert. It is easier to be alone, so that you do not become hurt by others. Growing up was not the best for me. My childhood home life was not the greatest. There were moments that Chiavaroli wrote things as Taylor was a young teenager that rung so near to my heart. I feel, even today, the disappointment of not being able to write what God has chosen me to write.  This story was well-crafted and tugged at my heartstrings more than once. I will definitely have to go out and purchase a paperback copy to put on the shelf next to my Louisa May Alcott collection. This is a great story! Fans of Alcott or writing should definitely read this book. It was a wonderful way to spend my time. I highly recommend this novel.

I received a complimentary copy of The Orchard House by Heidi Chiavaroli from Tyndale Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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