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The Quilt Chronicles #1
The Key on the Quilt
Enter a historic Nebraskan prison where three women find betrayal, love, and ultimate truth. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can a broken spirit be healed behind bars? Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. Will a guard's attentions keep her from her mission? Warden's wife Ellen Sullivan has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. Will it be enough to save her from a life-or-death situation? Will the cryptic quilt connecting their lives expose the truth of one woman's past and ensure a better future for them all?
318 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2012
95 people are currently reading
721 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Grace Whitson
54 books340 followersA native of southern Illinois, Stephanie Grace Whitson has lived in Nebraska since 1975. She began what she calls "playing with imaginary friends" (writing fiction) when, as a result of teaching her four homeschooled children Nebraska history, she was personally encouraged and challenged by the lives of pioneer women in the West. Since her first book, Walks the Fire, was published in 1995, Stephanie's fiction titles have appeared on the ECPA bestseller list numerous times and been finalists for the Christy Award, the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and ForeWord Magazine's Book of the Year. Her first nonfiction work, How to Help a Grieving Friend, was released in 2005. In addition to serving in her local church and keeping up with two married children, two college students, and a high school senior, Stephanie enjoys motorcycle trips with her family and church friends. Her passionate interests in pioneer women's history, antique quilts, and French, Italian, and Hawaiian language and culture provide endless story-telling possibilities.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
May 10, 2016
Not my normal genre of book, but it was a good read. Set in a state prison in Nebraska in the 1870s, it's historical fiction with some romance and a little bit of religion thrown in. The author gives us three women whose lives intersect, the men who love and support them, plus a whole cast of supporting characters in addition to a pretty good description of life during that time. We see the good, the bad and the ugly. The new warden asks "What would you say is the purpose of the penal system in America?". I think we're still asking ourselves that question still today. A lot of food for thought as a few people try to make a difference in the lives of others.
May 14, 2020
While several of my GRs friends enjoyed this one, it was not my cup of tea. Some funny and cute parts but overall not to my enjoyment. But I did finish it!
September 19, 2016
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! I'm making it my favorite of 2016, though it came out in 2013. I thought it would be too sad and while it was sad at times it wasn't overwhelmingly depressing. It was touching with grace notes :) you have to read it to understand! Such a beautiful story and examples of God using ALL things for our good! Magnificent
April 2, 2012
Stephanie Grace Whitson in her new book, “The Key on the Quilt” Book One in The Quilt Chronicles published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. takes us to Nebraska in 1876.
From the back cover: God’s plan revealed…stitch by stitch
From a distance, the building may resemble a castle, but it’s the last place Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson and Ellen Sullivan thought they’d be, and the last place they expected to see love grow.
Broken in spirit and wondering if God has abandoned her, Jane is serving a ten-year sentence at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, even as she hides a startling secret. How will one caring physician help unravel the hidden meaning behind Jane’s courthouse steps quilt?
Mamie told God she’d go anywhere, never dreaming that He’d send her to nurture women the world had forgotten as a prison matron. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attention of a kind guard at arm’s length?
Ellen was never going to leave Kentucky but then marriage made her a Nebraska warden’s wife. Can she reach past uncertainty and fear to find God’s purpose in it all?
Together, these three women form an unlikely friendship that takes them to the end of themselves and, ultimately, on a journey that proves prison walls can neither frustrate God’s plans nor keep love out.
This is a wonderful, fun book. I think this is one of the hardest stories to write as it is all character driven and takes a steady hand to guide the characters through the story while remaining true to each character and these characters are memorable. Jane, Mamie and Ellen are central to the book and each one has an important part in each others lives.
This is a story of the past and how we let it determine our present and future. All of us have a past and some of us let it limit and hinder our growth in our present which, of course, adversely affects our future. All these characters have a past and the only way for their emotional healing is by the Lord through contact with each other. The Bible tells us, “Iron sharpens Iron” and that is shown through the pages of this book; not in a preachy manner but in day-to-day displays of friendship, caring and understanding of one another. You come to love these characters as if they were alive (and they are within the pages of this book) and it is a thrill to watch them interact, grow and put aside their distrust, fear and the hurts of their pasts and find peace in their present.
Peter tells us we are “lively stones jointly fitted together”. I looked at a stone wall and found that each stone touched 6 other stones, 2 on top, 2 on each side and 2 on the bottom. Ms. Whitson, in her book, shows us how we come in contact with each other and what our relationship with each other can do. None of these characters can accomplish their dreams apart from the others and this is all demonstrated quite clearly by the deft hand of a master storyteller, Stephanie Grace Whitson.
Many kudos to Ms. Whitson for a truly memorable book, I was sorry to see it end. The good news is Book Two in this series is not far away. That means soon there will be a new book with new characters that will entertain us and give us new insights into our God and ourselves.
If you missed the interview for “A Claim Of Her Own”, another novel by Ms. Whitson, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishing, Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: God’s plan revealed…stitch by stitch
From a distance, the building may resemble a castle, but it’s the last place Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson and Ellen Sullivan thought they’d be, and the last place they expected to see love grow.
Broken in spirit and wondering if God has abandoned her, Jane is serving a ten-year sentence at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, even as she hides a startling secret. How will one caring physician help unravel the hidden meaning behind Jane’s courthouse steps quilt?
Mamie told God she’d go anywhere, never dreaming that He’d send her to nurture women the world had forgotten as a prison matron. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attention of a kind guard at arm’s length?
Ellen was never going to leave Kentucky but then marriage made her a Nebraska warden’s wife. Can she reach past uncertainty and fear to find God’s purpose in it all?
Together, these three women form an unlikely friendship that takes them to the end of themselves and, ultimately, on a journey that proves prison walls can neither frustrate God’s plans nor keep love out.
This is a wonderful, fun book. I think this is one of the hardest stories to write as it is all character driven and takes a steady hand to guide the characters through the story while remaining true to each character and these characters are memorable. Jane, Mamie and Ellen are central to the book and each one has an important part in each others lives.
This is a story of the past and how we let it determine our present and future. All of us have a past and some of us let it limit and hinder our growth in our present which, of course, adversely affects our future. All these characters have a past and the only way for their emotional healing is by the Lord through contact with each other. The Bible tells us, “Iron sharpens Iron” and that is shown through the pages of this book; not in a preachy manner but in day-to-day displays of friendship, caring and understanding of one another. You come to love these characters as if they were alive (and they are within the pages of this book) and it is a thrill to watch them interact, grow and put aside their distrust, fear and the hurts of their pasts and find peace in their present.
Peter tells us we are “lively stones jointly fitted together”. I looked at a stone wall and found that each stone touched 6 other stones, 2 on top, 2 on each side and 2 on the bottom. Ms. Whitson, in her book, shows us how we come in contact with each other and what our relationship with each other can do. None of these characters can accomplish their dreams apart from the others and this is all demonstrated quite clearly by the deft hand of a master storyteller, Stephanie Grace Whitson.
Many kudos to Ms. Whitson for a truly memorable book, I was sorry to see it end. The good news is Book Two in this series is not far away. That means soon there will be a new book with new characters that will entertain us and give us new insights into our God and ourselves.
If you missed the interview for “A Claim Of Her Own”, another novel by Ms. Whitson, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishing, Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 29, 2018
Key on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: E-Book
Timeframe: 1876 –
Location: Nebraska
Characters:
Jane Prescott: Convicted of murder
Rose Prescott: Jane’s daughter
Mamie Dawson: Guard on women’s floor
Minnie Dawson: Mamie’s funny twin, clothing store owner
Ian McKenna: Warden
Ellen McKenna: Warden’s wife
Max Zimmer: Doctor, Jane’s friend
Martin Underhill: Guard in love with Mamie
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. So different. I don’t think I’ve read other historical fiction books about a female inmate in a penitentiary.
Such was the situation for Jane Prescott. Convicted of manslaughter (killing her abusive husband) Rose is serving a 10 year sentence, leaving her 9 year old daughter with her childless sister Flora who becomes like a mother to Rose. But in the background there is Max Zimmer who is working hard to get her released on the premise that the trial and sentence were a sham.
The only female guard is Mamie Dawson, a lovely Christian woman who considers her female inmates her “lambs” and wants to let them know God’s love and grace. Also assisting on the women’s floor is Martin Underhill, a guard with integrity, unlike other guards who leer and say untoward things to and about the female prisoners. Martin is what you’d call deformed. Misshapen head and other abnormal features. But he is a man the women trust, and shows his loyalty and consideration for the prisoners, and especially to Mamie. You can't help but love Martin!
Jane wants to serve her time, then return to be a part of her daughter’s life again. When Max Zimmer comes to see her with his goal to get her released, she tells him to stop trying, to leave her alone and never to come see her again. Other than the fact that she is just trying to survive one day at a time, and her debilitating fear of hope denied, why Jane would insist Dr. Zimmer quit seeking her release is a story to be revealed later.
On this floor are women of all kinds and imprisoned for a variety of reasons, including stealing just to have food so her children don’t starve. Most are docile, all but one. Intense scenes around this woman.
After an emergency medical situation, the warden’s wife gets involved in the quality of life and rehabilitation of the women inmates.
What a story; intelligent, well thought out and superbly executed. Wonderful morals that weren't preachy entered through conversation. Loved it! A theme I enjoyed was what can be done to accomplish much, even with such diverse people. Goal, cooperation, church and community donations, and commitment. Very well done!
There’s an unusual romance story running throughout, and a possibility of another, plus an inspiring marriage. Even after years of being together they are still so much in love. Sweet and extremely clean. I am so glad I discovered this series. Next up, Shadow on the Quilt, which I’ll be starting tonight. I've become an avid Stephanie Grace Whitson fan.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: E-Book
Timeframe: 1876 –
Location: Nebraska
Characters:
Jane Prescott: Convicted of murder
Rose Prescott: Jane’s daughter
Mamie Dawson: Guard on women’s floor
Minnie Dawson: Mamie’s funny twin, clothing store owner
Ian McKenna: Warden
Ellen McKenna: Warden’s wife
Max Zimmer: Doctor, Jane’s friend
Martin Underhill: Guard in love with Mamie
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. So different. I don’t think I’ve read other historical fiction books about a female inmate in a penitentiary.
Such was the situation for Jane Prescott. Convicted of manslaughter (killing her abusive husband) Rose is serving a 10 year sentence, leaving her 9 year old daughter with her childless sister Flora who becomes like a mother to Rose. But in the background there is Max Zimmer who is working hard to get her released on the premise that the trial and sentence were a sham.
The only female guard is Mamie Dawson, a lovely Christian woman who considers her female inmates her “lambs” and wants to let them know God’s love and grace. Also assisting on the women’s floor is Martin Underhill, a guard with integrity, unlike other guards who leer and say untoward things to and about the female prisoners. Martin is what you’d call deformed. Misshapen head and other abnormal features. But he is a man the women trust, and shows his loyalty and consideration for the prisoners, and especially to Mamie. You can't help but love Martin!
Jane wants to serve her time, then return to be a part of her daughter’s life again. When Max Zimmer comes to see her with his goal to get her released, she tells him to stop trying, to leave her alone and never to come see her again. Other than the fact that she is just trying to survive one day at a time, and her debilitating fear of hope denied, why Jane would insist Dr. Zimmer quit seeking her release is a story to be revealed later.
On this floor are women of all kinds and imprisoned for a variety of reasons, including stealing just to have food so her children don’t starve. Most are docile, all but one. Intense scenes around this woman.
After an emergency medical situation, the warden’s wife gets involved in the quality of life and rehabilitation of the women inmates.
What a story; intelligent, well thought out and superbly executed. Wonderful morals that weren't preachy entered through conversation. Loved it! A theme I enjoyed was what can be done to accomplish much, even with such diverse people. Goal, cooperation, church and community donations, and commitment. Very well done!
There’s an unusual romance story running throughout, and a possibility of another, plus an inspiring marriage. Even after years of being together they are still so much in love. Sweet and extremely clean. I am so glad I discovered this series. Next up, Shadow on the Quilt, which I’ll be starting tonight. I've become an avid Stephanie Grace Whitson fan.
September 17, 2013
3.5 stars
The Key On The Quilt was an interesting book that I really enjoyed reading. I thought the characters were great and I loved how the story was set around a prison, particularly a women's prison - I don't think I've ever read a historical book with that being the main location in the story.
I wasn't surprised by much, if anything, in The Key On The Quilt and definitely saw the big reveal coming. I loved the message of sacrifice and love in this book. It was also neat how Miss Dawson had a habit of listing/counting what she was thankful for.
Overall, The Key On The Quilt was a good read and better than I expected. While not the best historical romance I've read, I did still enjoy it quite a bit. :) If you typically like these types of novels, you'll probably enjoy this book too.
*This review is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.*
The Key On The Quilt was an interesting book that I really enjoyed reading. I thought the characters were great and I loved how the story was set around a prison, particularly a women's prison - I don't think I've ever read a historical book with that being the main location in the story.
I wasn't surprised by much, if anything, in The Key On The Quilt and definitely saw the big reveal coming. I loved the message of sacrifice and love in this book. It was also neat how Miss Dawson had a habit of listing/counting what she was thankful for.
Overall, The Key On The Quilt was a good read and better than I expected. While not the best historical romance I've read, I did still enjoy it quite a bit. :) If you typically like these types of novels, you'll probably enjoy this book too.
*This review is my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.*
December 31, 2020
5 stars, 2012: Wow, did I ever enjoy this book! I’ve never read any books before about life in a women’s prison in the 1800s in Nebraska, and I’m guessing you haven’t either. This was an enlightening read! While some “enlightening” books can be quite boring, this one was riveting. I’m making it sound like an interesting text book, but it’s nowhere close to a textbook. It’s a delightful historical fiction type of book. I really enjoyed getting to know each of the main women: Mamie, Jane, and Ellen. They each had a very different role in the book – one was in prison, one was the female … guard/supervisor/boss, and one was the prison warden’s wife. All of their stories were neatly melded into the one book. It was clear how each woman’s faith in God grew, though The Key on the Quilt wasn’t a preachy book at all. I highly recommend that you read this wonderful Christian fiction! And I can’t wait to read the next book, The Shadow on the Quilt.
**The author supplied me with a free copy of this book. I have received no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a review, much less a positive one, and the opinions expressed in here are my own.**
4 stars, 2020: Excellent read.
**The author supplied me with a free copy of this book. I have received no compensation for this review. I was not required to write a review, much less a positive one, and the opinions expressed in here are my own.**
4 stars, 2020: Excellent read.
October 18, 2014
This was not one of my favorite reads. Had this book not said that it was in the late 1800's I'm not sure I would have been able to distinguish this book as historical; other than Max getting his horse at the livery. At times I though jail life came off a bit quaint. I never really connected to Jane; I did find Martin Underhill to be the most genuine and sincere and he was just a side character; a guard. This is the first Stephanie Grace Whitson book I've read and maybe it was just the whole book surrounded around the jailhouse that I thought I might like but turns out I needed more. I think it was just the story I didn't care for and not the writer.
April 29, 2012
Jane Prescott is serving a 10 year sentence for a murder believed to have been committed by Jane Marquis. Jane Prescott and Jane Marquis are the same person, but she went back to using her first married name after being convicted of murdering her husband Owen Marquis.
She has a nine year old daughter, Rose Prescott, who went to live with Jane's sister Flora after the murder. Jane didn't give any reason for murdering Owen, a good man as far as anyone knew, except when he was drinking, then he became very abusive to Jane and that was never in public. He never hurt Rose, except for the fact that she heard and saw the abusiveness.
Jane had one person in town who tried to fight for her at the trial, but she wouldn't let him and she wouldn't say anything in defense of herself as to why she shot Owen. Dr Max Zimmer had seen the bruises and broken ribs as he watched her go to a silent obedient wife. He also treated Rose when she received an injury while Owen was teaching her to shoot a gun.
During her time in prison, Jane wrote to Rose and waited for Flora to bring her for a visit. After she'd been in there for a while she received a short note from her sister to quit writing to Rose because it was too upsetting to her and if she tried to continue there was a chance she'd move so Jane wouldn't know where they were.
Dr Zimmer continued to fight to get her out as he didn't think she was capable of commiting the crime she'd been convicted of. When he went to visit her after she'd served a few years one of the prisoners, Pearl Brand, attacked another prisoner who was pregnant, along with the warden. Dr Zimmer, being on site, treated the prisoner and delivered her baby. Jane was the prisoner selected to go with Vestal to be treated at the wardens house, but she and Max did not speak even one word to each other as that was not allowed. The next day, after visiting with the warden about the reason for coming to see him, to request a letter to take to the governor so Jane could be released, he got to see Jane and explain what he was doing. She told him to forget it and to not bother her again.
Jane had found a way to get through her ten year sentence by not thinking about the future when she would be free to see Rose again and have her daughter back. If she allowed Max to get her hopes up, she would have to start the process of forgetting where she was all over again, she just couldn't allow that to happen.
After the prison dust up, Pearl was not held with the other women and the warden's wife started helping out and would guard the women on Sunday's. After services one Sunday, the preacher's wife lost a necklace so that night Ellen took Jane to help her search for it and clean as they were looking. They didn't know that Pearl had escaped her cell with the help of a guard and had a homemade weapon. Ellen sent Jane to get a broom and when she returned Pearl had Ellen held hostage and now she would have Jane also. All the women were afraid of Pearl so Jane knew not to even talk to her but Ellen didn't, which worked out for them, she ended up finding out what the whole plan was. Max decided it was taking his wife an awful long time so he went looking for her, when Pearl saw him she jumped to stab Ellen, but Jane jumped up and diverted the attack to save the warden's wife and got stabbed instead.
Yep, that's it, you have to read it now! Stephanie did a great job with this book and holding your interest throughout. This is a must read! I just can't say enough good about this book. I am really anxious for the second book in this series, Shadow of a Name, to some out this September.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
She has a nine year old daughter, Rose Prescott, who went to live with Jane's sister Flora after the murder. Jane didn't give any reason for murdering Owen, a good man as far as anyone knew, except when he was drinking, then he became very abusive to Jane and that was never in public. He never hurt Rose, except for the fact that she heard and saw the abusiveness.
Jane had one person in town who tried to fight for her at the trial, but she wouldn't let him and she wouldn't say anything in defense of herself as to why she shot Owen. Dr Max Zimmer had seen the bruises and broken ribs as he watched her go to a silent obedient wife. He also treated Rose when she received an injury while Owen was teaching her to shoot a gun.
During her time in prison, Jane wrote to Rose and waited for Flora to bring her for a visit. After she'd been in there for a while she received a short note from her sister to quit writing to Rose because it was too upsetting to her and if she tried to continue there was a chance she'd move so Jane wouldn't know where they were.
Dr Zimmer continued to fight to get her out as he didn't think she was capable of commiting the crime she'd been convicted of. When he went to visit her after she'd served a few years one of the prisoners, Pearl Brand, attacked another prisoner who was pregnant, along with the warden. Dr Zimmer, being on site, treated the prisoner and delivered her baby. Jane was the prisoner selected to go with Vestal to be treated at the wardens house, but she and Max did not speak even one word to each other as that was not allowed. The next day, after visiting with the warden about the reason for coming to see him, to request a letter to take to the governor so Jane could be released, he got to see Jane and explain what he was doing. She told him to forget it and to not bother her again.
Jane had found a way to get through her ten year sentence by not thinking about the future when she would be free to see Rose again and have her daughter back. If she allowed Max to get her hopes up, she would have to start the process of forgetting where she was all over again, she just couldn't allow that to happen.
After the prison dust up, Pearl was not held with the other women and the warden's wife started helping out and would guard the women on Sunday's. After services one Sunday, the preacher's wife lost a necklace so that night Ellen took Jane to help her search for it and clean as they were looking. They didn't know that Pearl had escaped her cell with the help of a guard and had a homemade weapon. Ellen sent Jane to get a broom and when she returned Pearl had Ellen held hostage and now she would have Jane also. All the women were afraid of Pearl so Jane knew not to even talk to her but Ellen didn't, which worked out for them, she ended up finding out what the whole plan was. Max decided it was taking his wife an awful long time so he went looking for her, when Pearl saw him she jumped to stab Ellen, but Jane jumped up and diverted the attack to save the warden's wife and got stabbed instead.
Yep, that's it, you have to read it now! Stephanie did a great job with this book and holding your interest throughout. This is a must read! I just can't say enough good about this book. I am really anxious for the second book in this series, Shadow of a Name, to some out this September.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 14, 2012
The Key on the Quilt is the first novel in Stephanie Grace Whitson's new series The Quilt Chronicles. As the debut book, we are introduced to a range of characters who will likely make appearances in the upcoming novels. The primary focus of The Key On the Quilt is Jane Prescott, an imprisoned mother with a tragic past. Her acquaintances in prison (inmates and free women) offer additional plots, particularly Mamie Dawson and Ellen Sullivan. The story is told from several different perspectives, which allows us to see 19th century prison life from a variety of angles. Interestingly, the second half of the novel suddenly introduces Jane's daughter Rose as a main character. The glimpse into Rose's emotions and life added extra depth to the novel, and I would have enjoyed more opportunities to read the story from her perspective.
The setting of The Key on the Quilt is the most notable element of the novel. Whitson demonstrates skill in relaying historical details through her description of the women's ward and the depiction of prison life.The backdrop of a prison sounds reminiscent of Dickens, but the plot is much more heartwarming and ultimately uplifting. Whitson introduces some difficult topics, but illustrates the power of faith and love in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Jane Prescott is truly an inspiring character from the beginning of the novel to the end. Hopefully future novels will feature Jane's continuing story. I would have been more satisfied with the ending if it had featured a short epilogue or at least a few more pages.
I also enjoyed Mamie's character and her story, which was like a charming novella integrated into the pages of a full novel. Ellen Sullivan is an integral part of the novel, but I did not feel impacted by reading her point-of-view. Some of her interactions with her husband were a bit "mushy" for my taste; there were some scenes that I feel were unnecessary. Despite feeling distracted by multiple perspectives, I would recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction. The Key on the Quilt is an enjoyable and worthwhile read with a memorable plot.
The Key on the Quilt will be released on March 1, 2012. For now, you can read a chapter Here.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley, courtesy of Barbour Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The setting of The Key on the Quilt is the most notable element of the novel. Whitson demonstrates skill in relaying historical details through her description of the women's ward and the depiction of prison life.The backdrop of a prison sounds reminiscent of Dickens, but the plot is much more heartwarming and ultimately uplifting. Whitson introduces some difficult topics, but illustrates the power of faith and love in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Jane Prescott is truly an inspiring character from the beginning of the novel to the end. Hopefully future novels will feature Jane's continuing story. I would have been more satisfied with the ending if it had featured a short epilogue or at least a few more pages.
I also enjoyed Mamie's character and her story, which was like a charming novella integrated into the pages of a full novel. Ellen Sullivan is an integral part of the novel, but I did not feel impacted by reading her point-of-view. Some of her interactions with her husband were a bit "mushy" for my taste; there were some scenes that I feel were unnecessary. Despite feeling distracted by multiple perspectives, I would recommend this novel to fans of historical fiction. The Key on the Quilt is an enjoyable and worthwhile read with a memorable plot.
The Key on the Quilt will be released on March 1, 2012. For now, you can read a chapter Here.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley, courtesy of Barbour Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
March 10, 2013
“The Key on the Quilt” by Stephanie Grace Whitson takes place in Dawson County Nebraska in 1876. Jane Prescott Marquis is riding home from a barn dance with her second husband Owen and her daughter Rose. She is rightfully scared to death of Owen who has abused Jane physically and verbally ever since her marriage to him after the death of her first love and husband, Thomas. Her sin this night is enjoying a dance with the kindly town doctor, Max Zimmer. Dr. Zimmer has kept Jane’s secret while tending her various injuries at Owen’s hand.
The next chapter in the novel takes place at the women’s prison in Lincoln Nebraska. Jane is serving a 10 year sentence for manslaughter in the death of one Owen Marquis. I felt as helpless as this poor woman while reading her story. There is something that doesn’t add up, but we are not privy to this information until the story’s end. Jane’s daughter Rose has been taken in by Jane’s sister Flora. Flora has decided that it is in Rose’s best interest that she believes that her mother is dead. Dr. Zimmer tries to keep in touch with Jane and indeed, persists is petitioning the governor and anyone who will listen to commute Jane’s sentence because of the circumstances.
I really liked this story. It gave great insight into the prison system in our country at this time, especially in the west. The story had many mini-stories told about the other prisoners, the wardens, guards and townspeople. I think you will enjoy this book and be hard-pressed to put it down until the end.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book for my honest review from the publisher, Barbour Publishing. The opinions expressed here are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-51
The next chapter in the novel takes place at the women’s prison in Lincoln Nebraska. Jane is serving a 10 year sentence for manslaughter in the death of one Owen Marquis. I felt as helpless as this poor woman while reading her story. There is something that doesn’t add up, but we are not privy to this information until the story’s end. Jane’s daughter Rose has been taken in by Jane’s sister Flora. Flora has decided that it is in Rose’s best interest that she believes that her mother is dead. Dr. Zimmer tries to keep in touch with Jane and indeed, persists is petitioning the governor and anyone who will listen to commute Jane’s sentence because of the circumstances.
I really liked this story. It gave great insight into the prison system in our country at this time, especially in the west. The story had many mini-stories told about the other prisoners, the wardens, guards and townspeople. I think you will enjoy this book and be hard-pressed to put it down until the end.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book for my honest review from the publisher, Barbour Publishing. The opinions expressed here are my own.
You can read this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-51
May 3, 2012
4.5 Stars.
Jane is in prison for murder. Mamie is the Matron of the ladies ward of the prison and Ellen is the Wardens wife. The book starts off introducing us to each of these woman and slowly they come together and the story start to take shape. Jane has a daughter named Rose that she misses terribly. She struggles to adjust to prison and also when Max shows up a man from her past she deals with her feeling for him. Max was the man who danced with Jane and causes the final fight that ended in the death of Jane's husband. He does not think Jane should be in jail and works hard to get her released.
What I liked: I liked how this book told the story from three very different people. You have the prisoner Jane, the Matron who watches over her Mamie and the new warden’s wife Ellen. There is also a few chapters with Max and Rose telling as well which just adds to the storyline. The detail in this book was really good I felt like I was right there with the characters.
What I did not like: There where a few times I felt the book was dragging a little. I wish there had been a small epilogue. This is book one in a series so hopefully we might see a little more of these characters again in the next book.
Over all I really enjoyed this book. I have not read a book about woman in jail in this time period before and I found it very informative and I gather the author spent a lot of time researching and it showed. I highly recommend this book!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
Jane is in prison for murder. Mamie is the Matron of the ladies ward of the prison and Ellen is the Wardens wife. The book starts off introducing us to each of these woman and slowly they come together and the story start to take shape. Jane has a daughter named Rose that she misses terribly. She struggles to adjust to prison and also when Max shows up a man from her past she deals with her feeling for him. Max was the man who danced with Jane and causes the final fight that ended in the death of Jane's husband. He does not think Jane should be in jail and works hard to get her released.
What I liked: I liked how this book told the story from three very different people. You have the prisoner Jane, the Matron who watches over her Mamie and the new warden’s wife Ellen. There is also a few chapters with Max and Rose telling as well which just adds to the storyline. The detail in this book was really good I felt like I was right there with the characters.
What I did not like: There where a few times I felt the book was dragging a little. I wish there had been a small epilogue. This is book one in a series so hopefully we might see a little more of these characters again in the next book.
Over all I really enjoyed this book. I have not read a book about woman in jail in this time period before and I found it very informative and I gather the author spent a lot of time researching and it showed. I highly recommend this book!
http://abbiesreadingcorner.com/2012/0...
May 24, 2012
4.5
Injustices are fought in a Nebraska prison.
Jane Prescott is a woman sentenced to ten years for man slaughter, but while in jail she forms friendships and longs for the day when she will see her daughter again. Max Zimmer is the man who has never doubted Jane's innocence and will do anything to set her free.
Three women are brought together under usual situations, and face unexpected obstacles.
A jail is definitely an interesting setting for a novel, if I do say so myself. Since I've been a long time Stephanie Grace Whitson fan, I knew I had to give it a try and I wasn't disappointed. The characters were well developed and there was plenty of action, with escape attempts and more.
I especially liked the character of Jane because of how throughout the book she really came out of her shell and she was complex character who had many layers, and it was wonderful to see them fall away. And of course Max was quite the gallant hero, and he fought admirably for Jane. I think out of the other side characters I really liked Mamie Dawson, who was a sort of mothering figure to the ladies.
Overall, I would say that this is an excellent read, and I loved the freshness of the setting. This book moved along steadily, at a good pace, and I really liked how much action this book surprised me with :) This is a book that I would definitely recommend. Thanks!
I received this as an ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.Thank you!
Injustices are fought in a Nebraska prison.
Jane Prescott is a woman sentenced to ten years for man slaughter, but while in jail she forms friendships and longs for the day when she will see her daughter again. Max Zimmer is the man who has never doubted Jane's innocence and will do anything to set her free.
Three women are brought together under usual situations, and face unexpected obstacles.
A jail is definitely an interesting setting for a novel, if I do say so myself. Since I've been a long time Stephanie Grace Whitson fan, I knew I had to give it a try and I wasn't disappointed. The characters were well developed and there was plenty of action, with escape attempts and more.
I especially liked the character of Jane because of how throughout the book she really came out of her shell and she was complex character who had many layers, and it was wonderful to see them fall away. And of course Max was quite the gallant hero, and he fought admirably for Jane. I think out of the other side characters I really liked Mamie Dawson, who was a sort of mothering figure to the ladies.
Overall, I would say that this is an excellent read, and I loved the freshness of the setting. This book moved along steadily, at a good pace, and I really liked how much action this book surprised me with :) This is a book that I would definitely recommend. Thanks!
I received this as an ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.Thank you!
February 29, 2012
The Key on the Quilt, written by Stephanie Grace Whitson, takes place in Nebraska in the late 1800’s. The setting is a woman’s prison and the main character is a murderer. Or is she?
Jane is serving her time after being accused of murdering her abusive husband. Her sister has taken over the care of her daughter Rose. Rose is led to believe that her mother has died but the memories of her mother and the time of the murder haunt her dreams. Meanwhile Jane sits in the prison counting the days till she will be free again.
Dr. Max Zimmer desperately wants to help Jane but she has asked him to stop, as she does not feel there is any hope. Even though Jane asks him not to, he tries to help Jane by talking to the prison warden. The warden and his wife, Ellen and Ian McKenna, play an important role in the story.
There are a few story lines in this book. Each one compliments the other. The characters all have depth and the stories themselves move along quickly. I liked the action, emotion and plot and felt the book flowed well. The author also did very well at describing the setting and time period. Overall it was a very well written and enjoyable novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
Jane is serving her time after being accused of murdering her abusive husband. Her sister has taken over the care of her daughter Rose. Rose is led to believe that her mother has died but the memories of her mother and the time of the murder haunt her dreams. Meanwhile Jane sits in the prison counting the days till she will be free again.
Dr. Max Zimmer desperately wants to help Jane but she has asked him to stop, as she does not feel there is any hope. Even though Jane asks him not to, he tries to help Jane by talking to the prison warden. The warden and his wife, Ellen and Ian McKenna, play an important role in the story.
There are a few story lines in this book. Each one compliments the other. The characters all have depth and the stories themselves move along quickly. I liked the action, emotion and plot and felt the book flowed well. The author also did very well at describing the setting and time period. Overall it was a very well written and enjoyable novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
March 31, 2012
Stellar for so many reasons. The unusual plot for one. And the complexity and variety of characters. And how those characters interact and develop relationships with one another. Everything about this book is impeccably written with a unique twist. And that includes romance. Steadfast comes to mind. Enduring. A depth of regard that survives far beyond the first blush of attraction. Definitely makes for a soul-satisfying read.
Fascinating historical details took on new life as the story progressed and caused me to reflect on my own misguided viewpoints. This book made me stretch and grow, both as an individual and a Christian. It's about finding God wherever you are and accepting His children wherever they are. Profound. Fulfilling. Emotional. A journey to remember. This one goes in the keeper pile.
Fascinating historical details took on new life as the story progressed and caused me to reflect on my own misguided viewpoints. This book made me stretch and grow, both as an individual and a Christian. It's about finding God wherever you are and accepting His children wherever they are. Profound. Fulfilling. Emotional. A journey to remember. This one goes in the keeper pile.
May 8, 2012
Dearly loved this. I saw it at the library on the new release shelf and it looked intriguing. (In fact, they had 2 copies.) It takes place in Nebraska in 1887 at the Nebraska State Penitentiary's Woman's ward. It's 3 intersecting stories about 3 different women, the new warden's wife, the matron, and a woman incarerated for murdering her husband. The author did alot of research into the archaic Nebraska penal system and it's prison. I was quite surprised that she got street names in Lincoln, NE correct as well. (I live not that far from there.) If I didn't have to sleep, I would have read the book straight through and cried near the end. That makes it a 5 star read to me.
November 16, 2013
Thursday, May 3, 2012
The Key on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson c2012
Historical Fiction! My very favorite genre. The Key on the Quilt is Book 1 of The Quilt Chronicles by Stephanie Grace Whitson. Visit the blog she co-authors at www.footnotesfromhistory.blogspot.com to follow "Footnotes: Novel Inspirations from History."
Enter a historic Nebraskan prison where three women find betrayal, love, and ultimate truth. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can a broken spirit be healed behind bars? Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. Will a guard's attentions keep her from her mission? Warden's wife Ellen Sullivan has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. Will it be enough to save her from a life-or-death situation? Will the cryptic quilt connecting their lives expose the truth of one woman's past and ensure a better future for them all?
Author Stephanie Grace Whitson
Read Chapter 1 here:
http://www.barbourbooks.com/product/K...
My Review:
This story follows three main characters, Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson, and Ellen Sullivan, as they find friendship goes beyond circumstance.
I liked this story of forgiveness and acceptance as each learned their value beyond what was seen. I had two favorite minor characters. The first kept popping up throughout the story to be the reconciliator and clarifier of truth in the person of Dr. Max Zimmer. He opens the story, closes it, and fills it in in-between. Definitely, Jane's sweet daughter Rose deserves her own story! She has shown maturity beyond her years as she grows to love within revealed truth that will change her life forever.
The monotony of sameness of every day is strengthened by the resolve of each person as they enrich each other just by being who they are. Can we do this and set differences aside? I liked the writing of the author and look forward to the continued stories in this Chronicle series. Being a quilter myself drew me to this story. I received this book in the mail just before my husband and I were on our way to our family in another state. We stopped at an antique store and I bought an old quilting magazine. Getting back in the car to continue on our long day's drive, I opened the magazine and... the exact same quilt pattern on the back of the book was inside!
I want to thank Barbour Publishing for sending me a print copy of The Key on the Quilt that I was able to take with me on our trip. This review is in my own words. I enjoyed this book and will think on it and its principles long after reading the last page.
The Key on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson c2012
Historical Fiction! My very favorite genre. The Key on the Quilt is Book 1 of The Quilt Chronicles by Stephanie Grace Whitson. Visit the blog she co-authors at www.footnotesfromhistory.blogspot.com to follow "Footnotes: Novel Inspirations from History."
Enter a historic Nebraskan prison where three women find betrayal, love, and ultimate truth. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can a broken spirit be healed behind bars? Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. Will a guard's attentions keep her from her mission? Warden's wife Ellen Sullivan has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. Will it be enough to save her from a life-or-death situation? Will the cryptic quilt connecting their lives expose the truth of one woman's past and ensure a better future for them all?
Author Stephanie Grace Whitson
Read Chapter 1 here:
http://www.barbourbooks.com/product/K...
My Review:
This story follows three main characters, Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson, and Ellen Sullivan, as they find friendship goes beyond circumstance.
I liked this story of forgiveness and acceptance as each learned their value beyond what was seen. I had two favorite minor characters. The first kept popping up throughout the story to be the reconciliator and clarifier of truth in the person of Dr. Max Zimmer. He opens the story, closes it, and fills it in in-between. Definitely, Jane's sweet daughter Rose deserves her own story! She has shown maturity beyond her years as she grows to love within revealed truth that will change her life forever.
The monotony of sameness of every day is strengthened by the resolve of each person as they enrich each other just by being who they are. Can we do this and set differences aside? I liked the writing of the author and look forward to the continued stories in this Chronicle series. Being a quilter myself drew me to this story. I received this book in the mail just before my husband and I were on our way to our family in another state. We stopped at an antique store and I bought an old quilting magazine. Getting back in the car to continue on our long day's drive, I opened the magazine and... the exact same quilt pattern on the back of the book was inside!
I want to thank Barbour Publishing for sending me a print copy of The Key on the Quilt that I was able to take with me on our trip. This review is in my own words. I enjoyed this book and will think on it and its principles long after reading the last page.
July 22, 2016
Widow Jane Prescott soon realised she had made a mistake in marrying Owen Marquis in order to give her daughter a father. Owen was an abuser, and one night, after an innocent dance with the local doctor, the fight went too far and Jane found herself serving ten years for his manslaughter. Dr Max Zimmer feels responsible for Jane's imprisonment, as he alone knows of the injuries Jane suffered at the hands of her second husband, and he wonders if dancing with Jane at the town social might have caused the fatal argument.
The loss of her daughter affects Jane more than the loss of her freedom. To manage this loss, she withdraws herself, including from Dr Max Zimmer. As Christians we seek freedom in Christ for ourselves and for others, but we don't realise that some people are so bound up in their personal prisons that they are afraid of being free. That fear must be broken before they can be whole, before they can be free. Jane is one of these people.
The Key on the Quilt is an original story, well-written with strong supporting characters, interesting sub-plots and a strong Christian theme, although it slowed a bit towards the end. It is a story of 'grace notes', healing and redemption in Christ. Grace, in Christianity, is sometimes defined as the unmerited favour of God. In music, grace notes are extra notes added as an embellishment. They are not needed for the melody or the harmony, but are simply to enhance the overall sound. So Christian grace notes are those extra things God gives us that we don't deserve, but which make life so much more than it could be.
One of the problems with having read a large number of books is that I don't often find a truly original plot, so it was a pleasure to discover The Key on the Quilt. Perhaps most gratifying for a history junkie like me is the note from the author at the end, explaining the inspiration behind the story, her research and the (very few) liberties she has taken with the facts. One of my pet hates is a historical novel that gets its facts wrong, so Stephanie Grace Whitson scores highly in this regard. Overall, a novel that is well worth reading.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This review also appears on my blog, www.christianreads.blogspot.com.
The loss of her daughter affects Jane more than the loss of her freedom. To manage this loss, she withdraws herself, including from Dr Max Zimmer. As Christians we seek freedom in Christ for ourselves and for others, but we don't realise that some people are so bound up in their personal prisons that they are afraid of being free. That fear must be broken before they can be whole, before they can be free. Jane is one of these people.
The Key on the Quilt is an original story, well-written with strong supporting characters, interesting sub-plots and a strong Christian theme, although it slowed a bit towards the end. It is a story of 'grace notes', healing and redemption in Christ. Grace, in Christianity, is sometimes defined as the unmerited favour of God. In music, grace notes are extra notes added as an embellishment. They are not needed for the melody or the harmony, but are simply to enhance the overall sound. So Christian grace notes are those extra things God gives us that we don't deserve, but which make life so much more than it could be.
One of the problems with having read a large number of books is that I don't often find a truly original plot, so it was a pleasure to discover The Key on the Quilt. Perhaps most gratifying for a history junkie like me is the note from the author at the end, explaining the inspiration behind the story, her research and the (very few) liberties she has taken with the facts. One of my pet hates is a historical novel that gets its facts wrong, so Stephanie Grace Whitson scores highly in this regard. Overall, a novel that is well worth reading.
Thanks to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This review also appears on my blog, www.christianreads.blogspot.com.
January 27, 2012
I was immediately hooked the minute I opened this book. You could not ask for a more unique story in the most unlikely setting. Taking place in woman's prison Whitson weaves her tale delightfully. The characters all have incredible depth and you immediately feel like they are friends. I found the setting absolutely fascinating and I appreciate all the research the author does for her books. While one might think this story revolves around a quilt that could almost be deceiving. The quilt plays a small but important role but this is not your typical "quilt book".
Whitson is an excellent author and I rarely read anything from her that I'm not completely taken with. She writes about people and places that she knows and she does so with effortless ability. Due in March this excellent read can be pre-ordered on Amazon.
God’s Plan Revealed. . .Stitch by Stitch
From a distance, the building may resemble a castle, but it’s the last place Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson, and Ellen Sullivan thought they’d be, and the last place they expected to see love grow.
Broken in spirit and wondering if God has abandoned her, Jane is serving a ten-year sentence at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, even as she hides a startling secret. How will one caring physician help unravel the hidden meaning behind Jane’s courthouse steps quilt?
Mamie told God she’d go anywhere, never dreaming He’d send her to nurture women the world had forgotten. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attentions of a kind guard at arm’s length?
Ellen was never going to leave Kentucky, but then marriage made her a Nebraska warden’s wife. Can she reach past uncertainty and fear to find God’s purpose in it all?
Together, these three women form an unlikely friendship that takes them to the end of themselves and, ultimately, on a journey that proves prison walls can neither frustrate God’s plans nor keep love out.
Thank you to Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Whitson is an excellent author and I rarely read anything from her that I'm not completely taken with. She writes about people and places that she knows and she does so with effortless ability. Due in March this excellent read can be pre-ordered on Amazon.
God’s Plan Revealed. . .Stitch by Stitch
From a distance, the building may resemble a castle, but it’s the last place Jane Prescott, Mamie Dawson, and Ellen Sullivan thought they’d be, and the last place they expected to see love grow.
Broken in spirit and wondering if God has abandoned her, Jane is serving a ten-year sentence at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, even as she hides a startling secret. How will one caring physician help unravel the hidden meaning behind Jane’s courthouse steps quilt?
Mamie told God she’d go anywhere, never dreaming He’d send her to nurture women the world had forgotten. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attentions of a kind guard at arm’s length?
Ellen was never going to leave Kentucky, but then marriage made her a Nebraska warden’s wife. Can she reach past uncertainty and fear to find God’s purpose in it all?
Together, these three women form an unlikely friendship that takes them to the end of themselves and, ultimately, on a journey that proves prison walls can neither frustrate God’s plans nor keep love out.
Thank you to Netgalley and Barbour Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 9, 2014
Book Description
Enter a historic Nebraskan prison where three women find betrayal, love, and ultimate truth. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can a broken spirit be healed behind bars? Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. Will a guard’s attentions keep her from her mission? Warden’s wife Ellen McKenna has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. Will it be enough to save her from a life-or-death situation? Will the cryptic quilt connecting their lives expose the truth of one woman’s past and ensure a better future for them all?
My Review
This book is the first book of Stephanie Grace Whitson’s that I have read and I guarantee you, it will not be the last one either. She is a GREAT author dealing with Historical fiction.
This book is such a GREAT book. When I read what the book was about, I wasn’t so sure about reading one dealing with a Women’s Prison, but my goodness I am glad that I read it.
This book is about Jane Prescott Marquis. Jane is in a bad marriage with Owen Marquis, where he beats her and just treats her pretty bad. She is accused of killing Owen, so she is sentenced to 10 years in the Women’s Penitentiary in Lincoln, Nebraska since she did it in self defense. She has a daughter, Rose and she moves with Jane’s sister to Nebraska City and this sister, Flora makes it known to Rose that her mother is dead. To me, that was just plain awful. The story goes on while Jane is in prison and all the hardships that come to the women in the prison. I don’t want to say anything more about this book or I will ruin it for you. Every woman needs to read this GREAT book.
I loved this book so much, that I couldn’t even put it down. I would suggest everyone read this book. Thank you so much Stephanie for giving us such a GREAT book.
Enter a historic Nebraskan prison where three women find betrayal, love, and ultimate truth. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can a broken spirit be healed behind bars? Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. Will a guard’s attentions keep her from her mission? Warden’s wife Ellen McKenna has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. Will it be enough to save her from a life-or-death situation? Will the cryptic quilt connecting their lives expose the truth of one woman’s past and ensure a better future for them all?
My Review
This book is the first book of Stephanie Grace Whitson’s that I have read and I guarantee you, it will not be the last one either. She is a GREAT author dealing with Historical fiction.
This book is such a GREAT book. When I read what the book was about, I wasn’t so sure about reading one dealing with a Women’s Prison, but my goodness I am glad that I read it.
This book is about Jane Prescott Marquis. Jane is in a bad marriage with Owen Marquis, where he beats her and just treats her pretty bad. She is accused of killing Owen, so she is sentenced to 10 years in the Women’s Penitentiary in Lincoln, Nebraska since she did it in self defense. She has a daughter, Rose and she moves with Jane’s sister to Nebraska City and this sister, Flora makes it known to Rose that her mother is dead. To me, that was just plain awful. The story goes on while Jane is in prison and all the hardships that come to the women in the prison. I don’t want to say anything more about this book or I will ruin it for you. Every woman needs to read this GREAT book.
I loved this book so much, that I couldn’t even put it down. I would suggest everyone read this book. Thank you so much Stephanie for giving us such a GREAT book.
April 26, 2012
The Key on the Quilt is a unique novel that is certain to capture the history lover. Stephanie Grace Whitson has taken a unique step in Christian fiction and ventured beyond the realms of the typical story-line found in the historical genre as she explores prison life among females.
This novel introduces the reader to three protagonists. Each of these protagonists struggle with something different. One is an actual prisoner, the other is the matron, the other is the warden's wife. These protagonists have the potential to reach a variety of readers, as one may be able to identify with a certain protagonist more than the others due to their life's circumstances.
This novel does an excellent job of showing readers the essence and heart of Jesus--which is to reach those who are broken and hurting. What better place than a prison? I love how this novel delves into a Christianity that the modern church is slowly forgetting about. It's wonderful to see the direction this story takes.
Another great part of the novel is the symbolism at the end. It's one of those "wow" moments that leaves readers reaching for the nearest tissue.
The only problem I have with this novel is the amount of back-story and explanation. It seemed to slow the story down. I would have loved to have seen it worked in rather than explained. At some portions, the back-story was very appropriate. At other times it felt un-necessary.
I definitly recommend every history lover give The Key on the Quilt a try. It's so far from the ordinary story, that one can't help but find themselves pleasantly surprised by this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Barbour Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This novel introduces the reader to three protagonists. Each of these protagonists struggle with something different. One is an actual prisoner, the other is the matron, the other is the warden's wife. These protagonists have the potential to reach a variety of readers, as one may be able to identify with a certain protagonist more than the others due to their life's circumstances.
This novel does an excellent job of showing readers the essence and heart of Jesus--which is to reach those who are broken and hurting. What better place than a prison? I love how this novel delves into a Christianity that the modern church is slowly forgetting about. It's wonderful to see the direction this story takes.
Another great part of the novel is the symbolism at the end. It's one of those "wow" moments that leaves readers reaching for the nearest tissue.
The only problem I have with this novel is the amount of back-story and explanation. It seemed to slow the story down. I would have loved to have seen it worked in rather than explained. At some portions, the back-story was very appropriate. At other times it felt un-necessary.
I definitly recommend every history lover give The Key on the Quilt a try. It's so far from the ordinary story, that one can't help but find themselves pleasantly surprised by this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Barbour Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2012
The Key on the Quilt - story of three women and their very different lives but a common connectin draws them all together - that of a women's prison.
Not the usual place to set a christian romance novel but this is no typical novel. The characters are rich and well drawn. I immediately cared deeply for Jane - incarcerated for alledgedly shooting her husband. We meet her nearly 4 years since being put in jail and she is a shadow of her former self. Quiet, introverted and barely keeping sane in a place of desolation and boredom, her life seems pointless and without meaning. Special mention must also be made to the first line in the entire novel which so surprised me it drew me up short and then immediately pulled me deeply into the story.
The other two main female characters are Mamie, the matron of the women's prison and Ellen the new wardens wife. Mamie is a gentle caring character whose concern for those in her keeping is a lovely touch to a character which is usually hard and crusty. Ellen is the niaeve new arrival coming to terms with the prison way of life and the dangers and risks that that entails.
Finally there is Dr Max Zimmer, a man forever linked to Jane and who never gives up or lets her go - even when she tries to send him away. Tireless fighting to see her pardoned and to solve the mystery surroundng her crime and sentence.
A strong cast of characters makes for a engaging read that moves quickly along. There were a couple of times that the dialogue becomes a little to lengthly and I did wish for a little action rather than discussion but quickly my wiches were met with some unexpected twists and turns.
Overall highly recommended for a different take on a romance.
Not the usual place to set a christian romance novel but this is no typical novel. The characters are rich and well drawn. I immediately cared deeply for Jane - incarcerated for alledgedly shooting her husband. We meet her nearly 4 years since being put in jail and she is a shadow of her former self. Quiet, introverted and barely keeping sane in a place of desolation and boredom, her life seems pointless and without meaning. Special mention must also be made to the first line in the entire novel which so surprised me it drew me up short and then immediately pulled me deeply into the story.
The other two main female characters are Mamie, the matron of the women's prison and Ellen the new wardens wife. Mamie is a gentle caring character whose concern for those in her keeping is a lovely touch to a character which is usually hard and crusty. Ellen is the niaeve new arrival coming to terms with the prison way of life and the dangers and risks that that entails.
Finally there is Dr Max Zimmer, a man forever linked to Jane and who never gives up or lets her go - even when she tries to send him away. Tireless fighting to see her pardoned and to solve the mystery surroundng her crime and sentence.
A strong cast of characters makes for a engaging read that moves quickly along. There were a couple of times that the dialogue becomes a little to lengthly and I did wish for a little action rather than discussion but quickly my wiches were met with some unexpected twists and turns.
Overall highly recommended for a different take on a romance.
Read
August 20, 2012You know you're in the hands of a master at historical fiction when you read a Stephanie Whitson book, but "The Key on the Quilt" goes above and beyond.
First, the unique setting: the Nebraska State Penitentiary in the 1880s. The descriptions are so detailed, I could step right into the prison and know my way around, know the routine and terminology used. The author also captures the 19th century attitude toward female prisoners, reminiscent of Margaret Atwood's "Alias Grace." The roots of my profession, Occupational Therapy, are seen in the efforts to reform prison life.
Second: the characters. To escape the horror of life, Jane hides in a cocoon, then must learn to break free and fly. Mamie permits no nonsense from the inmates, her coworkers, and God. Ellen dearly loves her husband, but can't understand why he'd want to be a prison warden.
Third: the romances. "The Key on the Quilt" weaves together three romances. Jane is championed by Dr. Max Zimmer. Mamie falls in love with a man who appears unloveable, but is "the kindest, noblest, bravest, most compassionate, smartest man." And when Ellen becomes involved in her husband's mission… well, an afternoon delight scene towards the end shows their deepening love.
Fourth: humor. A delightful surprise in a book set in a prison. The banter between Mamie and her sister is the fudge frosting of this rich Boston cream pie of a book.
A standing ovation!
And now, on to "The Shadow on the Quilt"!
First, the unique setting: the Nebraska State Penitentiary in the 1880s. The descriptions are so detailed, I could step right into the prison and know my way around, know the routine and terminology used. The author also captures the 19th century attitude toward female prisoners, reminiscent of Margaret Atwood's "Alias Grace." The roots of my profession, Occupational Therapy, are seen in the efforts to reform prison life.
Second: the characters. To escape the horror of life, Jane hides in a cocoon, then must learn to break free and fly. Mamie permits no nonsense from the inmates, her coworkers, and God. Ellen dearly loves her husband, but can't understand why he'd want to be a prison warden.
Third: the romances. "The Key on the Quilt" weaves together three romances. Jane is championed by Dr. Max Zimmer. Mamie falls in love with a man who appears unloveable, but is "the kindest, noblest, bravest, most compassionate, smartest man." And when Ellen becomes involved in her husband's mission… well, an afternoon delight scene towards the end shows their deepening love.
Fourth: humor. A delightful surprise in a book set in a prison. The banter between Mamie and her sister is the fudge frosting of this rich Boston cream pie of a book.
A standing ovation!
And now, on to "The Shadow on the Quilt"!
October 12, 2012
In 1875 at Nebraska State Penitentiary, three women attempt to pursue God's purpose for their lives. Jane Prescott is serving a ten-year sentence for murder. Can one caring physician help to heal her broken spirit? And will a cryptic quilt reveal the truth and bring her daughter back to her?
Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attentions of a kind guard at arm's length?
Warden's wife Ellen McKenna has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. But will a life-or-death situation make her change her mind?
Prison walls were made to keep people in, but they cannot keep God's love out. In this unique setting, three women find love, truth, and the grace of God.
Awesome book, loved it and hope to find more books by this author that I love!
Matron Mamie Dawson feels called to help the wounded women in her charge. But while helping those around her, will she stubbornly keep the attentions of a kind guard at arm's length?
Warden's wife Ellen McKenna has changed her preconceptions about these female prisoners. But will a life-or-death situation make her change her mind?
Prison walls were made to keep people in, but they cannot keep God's love out. In this unique setting, three women find love, truth, and the grace of God.
Awesome book, loved it and hope to find more books by this author that I love!
April 10, 2013
The Key On The Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson is a wonderful story about the unlikely friendship of three different women and how God worked in each of their lives. In this historical Christian fiction novel, Jane is serving a 10-yr. sentence in prison for murdering her second husband while her sister takes care of Jane’s little girl, Rose. All the while, Jane hopes to be reunited with her daughter one day. While in prison, Jane works on a quilt for her daughter that she trusts will be a reminder to Rose of her mother’s love and instrumental in reuniting them. With some blossoming romances as well as interesting lives and insight into prison life, I think this would be a good book club read and highly recommend it to women.
(Karen's review)
(Karen's review)
March 26, 2014
I attended a talk this author gave less than two weeks ago. I had not read any of her books before but was interested because she writes about history, especially Nebraska history, and is interested in quilts. She says that she likes to know the story of a quilt, and if she cannot find the real story, she imagines a possible one and writes it. This novel takes place in and near Lincoln starting in 1876. It centers around a female prison inmate, the woman in charge of the female prisoners, the wife of the warden of the Lincoln penetentiary, a dressmaker, and a doctor. It's the first of a series of novels the author calls the Quilt Chronicles and has a nice plot. I will be reading more of her books as I want to learn more about the history of Nebraska.
December 28, 2013
Key on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson
I enjoyed reading this simply told story. I enjoy an historical novel and I know very little about womens' prisons of the states a hundred and 30 years or so ago! Ms Whitson's interpretation seems like it might be too gentle. I think the conditions may have been harsher than described in this novel. I also believe it would be extremely difficult for a woman to return to “normal” society after being in prison even if wrongly accused! I still enjoyed the story and the happy ending.
I enjoyed reading this simply told story. I enjoy an historical novel and I know very little about womens' prisons of the states a hundred and 30 years or so ago! Ms Whitson's interpretation seems like it might be too gentle. I think the conditions may have been harsher than described in this novel. I also believe it would be extremely difficult for a woman to return to “normal” society after being in prison even if wrongly accused! I still enjoyed the story and the happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2012
I've been a fan of Stephanie Grace Whitson's books for close to a decade now, and while I've always considered her an outstanding author, she surpassed even her high standards with this book. I challenge anyone not to be intrigued by the first line. The rest of the book is equally intriguing. Beautifully written with memorable characters and a decidedly unusual setting -- this book has everything I look for in historical fiction.
May 6, 2012
While I consider this novel somewhat of an easy read, it did keep me connected. Maybe it was the description of Nebraska City, Plum Creek, and Lincoln, Nebraska--all places with which I am familar. This had to be the first novel I've read about a woman's prison and women prisoner's and set in th 1800's. I felt that many of the descriptions of Jane, her fellow inmates and how they were treated rang true. My high school girls will love this book.
January 1, 2013
A women's prison sounded like an unusual setting for Christian fiction, but Stephanie Grace Whitson really made it work in The Key on the Quilt.
The lives of three women intersect in unexpected ways - Jane Prescott is serving time for murder; Mamie Dawson feels called to reach the women in her charge; and Ellen McKenna is reluctant to accept her husband's new position as warden.
A tightly woven, captivating story for just $10.39 on Kindle.
The lives of three women intersect in unexpected ways - Jane Prescott is serving time for murder; Mamie Dawson feels called to reach the women in her charge; and Ellen McKenna is reluctant to accept her husband's new position as warden.
A tightly woven, captivating story for just $10.39 on Kindle.
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