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The Tapestry of a Heart
Finnley O'Connell is at a crossroads when her life takes an unexpected turn after getting fired from her family's lawn care business. Seeking refuge in Chicago with her gay uncle, Finnley discovers a vibrant city and a new sense of freedom. But it's meeting Emerson, a captivating and mysterious woman, that truly changes everything. Drawn to Emerson's strength and vulnerability, Finnley begins to untangle the threads of her own heart and identity. What begins as a temporary escape turns into a journey of self-discovery.
As Finnley navigates her new surroundings and grapples with her own identity, she realizes that Emerson might be the missing piece in her life. But with their newfound relationship comes a host of challenges, from family conflict to personal insecurities. Will they be able to weave a beautiful tapestry of love and connection, or will the threads of doubt and uncertainty tear them apart?
The beautifully crafted characters and vivid descriptions will leave you immersed in the world of Finnley and Emerson long after the final page.
As Finnley navigates her new surroundings and grapples with her own identity, she realizes that Emerson might be the missing piece in her life. But with their newfound relationship comes a host of challenges, from family conflict to personal insecurities. Will they be able to weave a beautiful tapestry of love and connection, or will the threads of doubt and uncertainty tear them apart?
The beautifully crafted characters and vivid descriptions will leave you immersed in the world of Finnley and Emerson long after the final page.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2023
129 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Erin Zak
18 books352 followersErin Zak is a sapphic contemporary romance writer who loves older women, imperfect people, and beautiful places. She’s a bit dorky and quirky and tries to make sure every single one of her characters has those same qualities. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @erinzakwrites. You can also listen to her podcast, The Weekly Wine Down, where she gets tipsy with her best friends while discussing any and everything.
www.erinzak.com
www.erinzak.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 3, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
This is a story that I really connected with. Zak did weave a tapestry of love and life in this book. Both Finley and Emerson were two well developed characters. Both were good at communicating with each other and their chemistry was off the charts.
It was fun watching Finley discover her true self. Her Uncle Mark.Aunt Lisa and friend Jesse all stood with her throughout her journey and offered her their support.
The only negative was the over use of alcohol, vaping and edibles. But that’s my view, others may be fine with it.
I look forward to more great books by Zak. And highly recommend this story.
This is a story that I really connected with. Zak did weave a tapestry of love and life in this book. Both Finley and Emerson were two well developed characters. Both were good at communicating with each other and their chemistry was off the charts.
It was fun watching Finley discover her true self. Her Uncle Mark.Aunt Lisa and friend Jesse all stood with her throughout her journey and offered her their support.
The only negative was the over use of alcohol, vaping and edibles. But that’s my view, others may be fine with it.
I look forward to more great books by Zak. And highly recommend this story.
May 30, 2023
First of all I wanna mention that it was some time ago I have read anything by Erin Zak. I always loved her stories but sometimes other books always came in between. Then it was also a long time ago I have read a book in first person view. Personally I love this POV but to find a book with this POV that is written well isn't that easy. And you know what? This book is one of these stories that reminded me why I love this POV so much. It makes me feel a character's feelings so much more. I get engrossed in a story, forget everything around me and get annoyed when I get interrupted. All of this happened to me during this read.
I fell in love with Finnley right from the start. I can imagine some people maybe won't get why she got stuck or even get annoyed with her. And let me tell you there are some scenes you definitely want to push her. But the thing is, I also get the feeling of being stuck und when you don't even realise anymore you are stuck. The best thing that can happen then is having the right kind of people around you. People who love you enough to be honest with you. When Finley gets fired from her job by her own dad, one thing she doesn't see this as a good thing. All her life she worked to take over her dad's business and then this a guy just has other plans. A guy I never really warmed up to. Or lets be honest a guy I just disliked. Anyway when she is sent to Chicago to live with her uncle Mark, she is at a loss in her life. She wasn't even able to get rid of her fiancé Steven due to the move, so how should things get better? But Mark is exactly the honest and loving person she needs. The transformation we get to see, the moment she arrives in this new city, is exceptional. I loved her falling in love with the city and her slowly finding her way.
I also loved how she discovered her feelings for another woman. Something she has definitely never seen coming. The moment she meets Emerson I literally felt the sparks fly, even though Finnley didn't get it at first. This first meeting and what follows is just wow. The way they communicate definitely surprised me a few times. And I mean that in the most positive way. Of course not everything goes smoothly, I mean this is a romance book, but whatever came up left me back wanting more. It left me wanting to know what will happen next. And have I already mentioned that I developed a huge crush on Emerson? It was like I was able to feel what Finnley feels and totally get her feelings. I think I already mentioned their sparks but wanna point out once again their chemistry. This was just wow and it's totally possible that you will feel the temperatures in your room rise.
There are also a few characters I disliked (some more others a bit less). I think one I have already mentioned, the others you need to discover herself. 😉 Just like you need to go through all these feelings yourself. And I promise you, you will feel a lot. My feelings went from anger, sadness, grieve, relief, love and so many other feelings. To let go of old things, sometimes we need to grieve to come back more happy and like I already said, sometimes you just need to have the right people in your life. Or maybe the circumstances change in way you have to do something. In the end we need to do the work and change things for ourselves. If you're head isn't where it needs to be, it won't work. Everything happens for a reason is a saying I believe in and I guess this is another reason I connected so much with this story and these characters. I think I could go on and on and explain how much I adore this book, but I guess at some point I need to stop and let others just discover the story. For me Erin Zak has gifted us with a beautiful and heartfelt story. I know it's one of these stories that will stay with me and I already look forward to more by Erin Zak.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
I fell in love with Finnley right from the start. I can imagine some people maybe won't get why she got stuck or even get annoyed with her. And let me tell you there are some scenes you definitely want to push her. But the thing is, I also get the feeling of being stuck und when you don't even realise anymore you are stuck. The best thing that can happen then is having the right kind of people around you. People who love you enough to be honest with you. When Finley gets fired from her job by her own dad, one thing she doesn't see this as a good thing. All her life she worked to take over her dad's business and then this a guy just has other plans. A guy I never really warmed up to. Or lets be honest a guy I just disliked. Anyway when she is sent to Chicago to live with her uncle Mark, she is at a loss in her life. She wasn't even able to get rid of her fiancé Steven due to the move, so how should things get better? But Mark is exactly the honest and loving person she needs. The transformation we get to see, the moment she arrives in this new city, is exceptional. I loved her falling in love with the city and her slowly finding her way.
I also loved how she discovered her feelings for another woman. Something she has definitely never seen coming. The moment she meets Emerson I literally felt the sparks fly, even though Finnley didn't get it at first. This first meeting and what follows is just wow. The way they communicate definitely surprised me a few times. And I mean that in the most positive way. Of course not everything goes smoothly, I mean this is a romance book, but whatever came up left me back wanting more. It left me wanting to know what will happen next. And have I already mentioned that I developed a huge crush on Emerson? It was like I was able to feel what Finnley feels and totally get her feelings. I think I already mentioned their sparks but wanna point out once again their chemistry. This was just wow and it's totally possible that you will feel the temperatures in your room rise.
There are also a few characters I disliked (some more others a bit less). I think one I have already mentioned, the others you need to discover herself. 😉 Just like you need to go through all these feelings yourself. And I promise you, you will feel a lot. My feelings went from anger, sadness, grieve, relief, love and so many other feelings. To let go of old things, sometimes we need to grieve to come back more happy and like I already said, sometimes you just need to have the right people in your life. Or maybe the circumstances change in way you have to do something. In the end we need to do the work and change things for ourselves. If you're head isn't where it needs to be, it won't work. Everything happens for a reason is a saying I believe in and I guess this is another reason I connected so much with this story and these characters. I think I could go on and on and explain how much I adore this book, but I guess at some point I need to stop and let others just discover the story. For me Erin Zak has gifted us with a beautiful and heartfelt story. I know it's one of these stories that will stay with me and I already look forward to more by Erin Zak.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
June 13, 2023
This cover is just fucking gorgeous, it needs to be said.
I feel like this book is hard to explain, thus hard to review. You can tell Zak put a lot of herself into the main character. The writing is good, the story is a little messy, maybe a bit bland, but it’s so much like real life. I really felt that.
I’m pretty sure this book will get a very mixed bag of reviews, I understand that completely. When you go in expecting a romance you’ll be disappointed. There definitely is one, I would just say it isn’t the main focus.
This story is very much focused on self discovery, self acceptance, (found) family and just muddling through life. And while it’s all that, I can’t help but think nothing really happens either. I enjoyed it for what it was - messy, and weird, a tad incomprehensible, I’d almost call it life. 😉
What I liked a bit less was the predictability of some of the events, at least for me. I don’t feel like putting a spoiler up so I won’t discuss it.
Another thing I didn’t like much was the amount of alcohol that gets consumed and the way they talk about it. The occasional edible and vape don’t need to be there for me either. This is very much a me thing, I understand, but a returning story choice that involves needing liquid courage is just something that irks me. You’re a 30-something adult, you don’t need alcohol, you just scrape your courage together and go do it. Alcohol isn’t necessary, but it is for these characters. That’s just not a great story choice for me personally.
I feel like this book is hard to explain, thus hard to review. You can tell Zak put a lot of herself into the main character. The writing is good, the story is a little messy, maybe a bit bland, but it’s so much like real life. I really felt that.
I’m pretty sure this book will get a very mixed bag of reviews, I understand that completely. When you go in expecting a romance you’ll be disappointed. There definitely is one, I would just say it isn’t the main focus.
This story is very much focused on self discovery, self acceptance, (found) family and just muddling through life. And while it’s all that, I can’t help but think nothing really happens either. I enjoyed it for what it was - messy, and weird, a tad incomprehensible, I’d almost call it life. 😉
What I liked a bit less was the predictability of some of the events, at least for me. I don’t feel like putting a spoiler up so I won’t discuss it.
Another thing I didn’t like much was the amount of alcohol that gets consumed and the way they talk about it. The occasional edible and vape don’t need to be there for me either. This is very much a me thing, I understand, but a returning story choice that involves needing liquid courage is just something that irks me. You’re a 30-something adult, you don’t need alcohol, you just scrape your courage together and go do it. Alcohol isn’t necessary, but it is for these characters. That’s just not a great story choice for me personally.
January 18, 2024
I can't believe I didn't write a review of this intriguing book. Finely is engaged to Steven, but she's not in love with him. Then she's fired from the family's business. She goes to live with her Uncle Mark. Her first night there Marl has a dinner party and she meets Isabel Emerson. She's enchanted by the older woman. But things get complicated. Such a great age gap/ toaster oven story! 5 stars!
April 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I feel like the MCs had more sex in this book than meaningful dialogue, but I still enjoyed it as a whole as it's more than just a love story between Finn and Emery; more importantly it's a story of Finn falling in love with herself.
August 31, 2023
I randomly picked an Erin Zak book and Tapestry of the Heart absolutely entertained me! Themes of found family, age gap, late bloomer lesbian, friendship and love of all forms are displayed in the story. I applaud how the author made out most characters to be three-dimensional. They were all so interesting and entertaining without overshadowing the main story. My favourite part of this story is the funny internal monologue Finnley has with herself. It’s so good because her thoughts are so relatable to present times and I looove how the author doesn’t shy away from using the word fck in a conversational manner without sounding crass. It’s so refreshing because it gives the statement emphasis and candour.
Well written, engaging and funny. Tapestry of the Heart is so endearing that I didn’t mind the exhaustive and excessive exercises nearing the end of the story.
Well written, engaging and funny. Tapestry of the Heart is so endearing that I didn’t mind the exhaustive and excessive exercises nearing the end of the story.
January 28, 2025
A multilayed story that ticks many boxes, but what shines though is the love story. Twists keep it going, but the skilled author never lets it go out of control. Recommended.
June 12, 2023
The Tapestry of a Heart by Erin Zak is an angsty age gap romance that will have your emotions doing somersaults.
Finnley has been on the same path her whole life. She’s always believed she is meant to take over her dad’s failing business and try to make it work. Until one day her dad fires her. Engaged to a man she doesn’t love and at a lost at what to do her family suggest she moves to Philadelphia to stay with her flamboyant uncle and do some soul searching. She needs to figure out what she wants from life and understand what it is that will make her happy.
While there she meets the mysterious and gorgeous Emerson. Emerson is like no one Finnley has ever met and makes Finnley question everything she thought she wanted from life.
This book is simply divine. From start to finish I was on a journey of twirling emotions. I can’t say too much because I don’t want to spoil it, but this book has a lot of ups and downs.
Finnley’s journey of self discovery is beautiful to witness, she has a lot to learn about herself and a lot of things to accept. She is brave without knowing it and a gorgeously caring person.
Finnley and Emerson’s love has a soulmates vibe to it and it’s wonderful. They meet each other at a time that is perfect. It’s not smooth sailing in fact the waters are choppy but it’s epic. My heart went through so much reading about the love they share. It’s fierce and full of need, It’s hot and full of longing and it’s warm and supportive. It’s one of those love at first sight kinda loves that makes your gut ache and your heart soar.
Zak did a great job at writing this book in first person POV. I saw everything Finnley did, felt every blow and high like it was me experiencing it and I revelled in it all!
This book is full of passion and heat. It’s about finding your place in the world and finding the people who are meant to be part of it. Chosen family are sometimes the best kind of family and Finnley finds the absolute best people for her.
Finnley has been on the same path her whole life. She’s always believed she is meant to take over her dad’s failing business and try to make it work. Until one day her dad fires her. Engaged to a man she doesn’t love and at a lost at what to do her family suggest she moves to Philadelphia to stay with her flamboyant uncle and do some soul searching. She needs to figure out what she wants from life and understand what it is that will make her happy.
While there she meets the mysterious and gorgeous Emerson. Emerson is like no one Finnley has ever met and makes Finnley question everything she thought she wanted from life.
This book is simply divine. From start to finish I was on a journey of twirling emotions. I can’t say too much because I don’t want to spoil it, but this book has a lot of ups and downs.
Finnley’s journey of self discovery is beautiful to witness, she has a lot to learn about herself and a lot of things to accept. She is brave without knowing it and a gorgeously caring person.
Finnley and Emerson’s love has a soulmates vibe to it and it’s wonderful. They meet each other at a time that is perfect. It’s not smooth sailing in fact the waters are choppy but it’s epic. My heart went through so much reading about the love they share. It’s fierce and full of need, It’s hot and full of longing and it’s warm and supportive. It’s one of those love at first sight kinda loves that makes your gut ache and your heart soar.
Zak did a great job at writing this book in first person POV. I saw everything Finnley did, felt every blow and high like it was me experiencing it and I revelled in it all!
This book is full of passion and heat. It’s about finding your place in the world and finding the people who are meant to be part of it. Chosen family are sometimes the best kind of family and Finnley finds the absolute best people for her.
August 25, 2023
It’s my first read from Erin Zak. The story is written with only Finnley’s point of view. Finnley is not perfect at all, she is messy, doesn’t always make the right choice, and that’s what makes her feel real, someone we can relate to. We start (and spend most of) the book with a lost Finnley. She is kind of a paradox because she both knows and shove off what she really wants. After her parents fire her she moves in with her uncle, who is exantric and very endearing, and has a really unexpected job. He brings to her world some life, new people and encourages her to experiment and enjoy life at its fullest. Even if their parties include a bit too much alcohol and light drugs for my taste, Zak really knows how to set up the atmosphere for the reader. What hooked me was the connections between the characters and particularly the connection between Finn and Emerson. It’s basically love at first sight and while I am too cynical to believe in that, their passion and attraction to each other so well written so I totally bought it.
This book is not like the ones I am used to read. It wasn’t always easy to read, it's angsty, the story is raw, but that’s why I liked it. It just felt real. I think some decisions Finnley makes might upset some readers, I was sometimes frustrated with her but I also understood her. Humans are just flawed, and it's refreshing to read characters that just mess up and show cowardness.
It’s a story about finding yourself. If I had to describe Finnley’s journey, I would say it was a beautiful mess, filled with love, life and death. I really enjoyed reading it.
Cherry on top, that cover is just a work o
This book is not like the ones I am used to read. It wasn’t always easy to read, it's angsty, the story is raw, but that’s why I liked it. It just felt real. I think some decisions Finnley makes might upset some readers, I was sometimes frustrated with her but I also understood her. Humans are just flawed, and it's refreshing to read characters that just mess up and show cowardness.
It’s a story about finding yourself. If I had to describe Finnley’s journey, I would say it was a beautiful mess, filled with love, life and death. I really enjoyed reading it.
Cherry on top, that cover is just a work o
November 24, 2023
3.5 stars. I liked the characters, there is definite chemistry, but the book has a massive tone dissonance between HEA and everyone cheating on everyone and being dishonest in too many ways to count. I didn't really get what message the book tries to convey, because it deals with all forms of cheating from the despicable to sorta OK in those kind of circumstances. By the end of the book a lot of characters became quite unlikable.
The book also tries to normalize sex work, which is great, but it's done in the most whitewashed way possible. The message being that straight women only want to be just held and other similar memes. It so happens that I recently watched a YouTube interview with a real gigolo, and rough, wild sex is always on the menu and first priority. So this plot line fell competely flat for me.
Communication issues are also a big component of this book, which I don't particularly enjoy. And there's also the white straight man bad trope as well.
Read it for the beautiful cover, gorgeous femmes and their chemistry if you can stomach communication issues and other common genre tropes.
.
The book also tries to normalize sex work, which is great, but it's done in the most whitewashed way possible. The message being that straight women only want to be just held and other similar memes. It so happens that I recently watched a YouTube interview with a real gigolo, and rough, wild sex is always on the menu and first priority. So this plot line fell competely flat for me.
Communication issues are also a big component of this book, which I don't particularly enjoy. And there's also the white straight man bad trope as well.
Read it for the beautiful cover, gorgeous femmes and their chemistry if you can stomach communication issues and other common genre tropes.
.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2023
Wow, this is one of those stories that grips you by the heart and pulls you along. The Tapestry of a Heart is a masterpiece of whirling emotions and a long search for happiness.
Finnley is withering away at her job as an accountant at her father’s business and being the fiancée to a man that’s just ok. When her father fires her she moves across the country to stay with her flamboyant uncle Mark in Chicago. There she finds she has never been truly happy and slowly her new life shows her that it is time to search for what makes her truly happy professionally but above all personally. Enter Emerson. The most beautiful woman Finnley has ever seen. Emerson wriggles her way into Finnley’s life and has no intention of leaving it.
Erin Zak has a definite way with words. The way she describes Finnley’s internal struggles is breathtaking. It makes her story all the more real. When Finnley discovers she has never been happy and has always been living for everyone else, it breaks your heart. As a reader you get fully immersed and invested in her journey to find the happiness she deserves. Her attraction to Emerson and her failing attempts to ignore it, sizzle from the pages. The way they connect mentally and physically is everything. You can only wish the absolute best for them both and know in your heart of hearts that they will be the best for each other.
The other characters in the story are well rounded and each of them serves a loving purpose in Finnley’s life. Her uncle Mark is a remarkable man that any one would wish was part of their family. His love for Finnley knows no bounds.
The patchwork of emotions Finnley has to go through to get her HEA are both tragic and liberating. The Tapestry of a Heart is a story that is so well worth your time, I don’t even know why you are still reading this! Run, don’t walk, and read this awesome story now!
Finnley is withering away at her job as an accountant at her father’s business and being the fiancée to a man that’s just ok. When her father fires her she moves across the country to stay with her flamboyant uncle Mark in Chicago. There she finds she has never been truly happy and slowly her new life shows her that it is time to search for what makes her truly happy professionally but above all personally. Enter Emerson. The most beautiful woman Finnley has ever seen. Emerson wriggles her way into Finnley’s life and has no intention of leaving it.
Erin Zak has a definite way with words. The way she describes Finnley’s internal struggles is breathtaking. It makes her story all the more real. When Finnley discovers she has never been happy and has always been living for everyone else, it breaks your heart. As a reader you get fully immersed and invested in her journey to find the happiness she deserves. Her attraction to Emerson and her failing attempts to ignore it, sizzle from the pages. The way they connect mentally and physically is everything. You can only wish the absolute best for them both and know in your heart of hearts that they will be the best for each other.
The other characters in the story are well rounded and each of them serves a loving purpose in Finnley’s life. Her uncle Mark is a remarkable man that any one would wish was part of their family. His love for Finnley knows no bounds.
The patchwork of emotions Finnley has to go through to get her HEA are both tragic and liberating. The Tapestry of a Heart is a story that is so well worth your time, I don’t even know why you are still reading this! Run, don’t walk, and read this awesome story now!
June 5, 2023
When I finished this book, I looked up, looked around and didn't know what day it was or what time it was.
This is one of those books, and they're rare, that is so brilliantly written that everything you need to do during your day gets put off until another time.
Finnley O'Connor works at her family's landscaping business in Florida. She isn't thrilled with the job, nor is she at all happy about working for her father who is always right (even when he's wrong) and who has a questionable relationship with accounting and bookkeeping. Money problems are father-made problems, so he feels the only solution is to fire Finnley and send her to live in Chicago with her "big, gay uncle" Mark.
Mark is great! He's loving and very glad Finn has come to stay with him. He throws fabulous dinner parties, and has fascinating guests. One of his guests, Emerson, grabs Finn's attention immediately.
With all the baggage that two people can possibly have, Finn and Emerson are off to the races. It's never easy in Zak's books, but it's always, always worth it. This is a thread that runs through a lot of her books, and it's a valuable message. These characters are always worth it, always enough, but they have to figure that out.
This is a slow-burn, age-gap story (one of my favorite foundations for a book) that works on every level. Erin Zak has been on a fast track for some time now, and with this book, she's arrived!
June 13, 2023
Wow! Another five star read by Erin Zak … ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I can pretty much count on her books to binge and this one was for sure another binger! This book should come with a Scoville rating though because it gets pretty spicy 🌶️ aside from their hot and steamy romance, I found the relationship with Finnley and Emmerson really sweet and believable and the story was full of unexpected twists and turns which kept me on my toes to the very end. I was also pleasantly surprised that two characters I loved from one of Erin’s earlier books made a return as background characters in this story. A really sweet summer read! (The cover art deserves a whole review in itself too though ❤️).
September 11, 2023
First off the cover is beautiful. The way mid-life crisis’, grief, loss, heartbreak, finding happiness, finding love later in later, cheating, found family, sudden change was handled in this story was outstanding. Truly. There’s a lot of books where the MC find themselves at a young age so reading a reading about a thirty-two woman find herself beyond just her sexuality is really refreshing and shows that these kinds of the epiphanies can happen at any time for any reason.
August 8, 2023
I believe I may have finally learnt my lesson when it comes to reading books by Erin Zak. Romance isn't my preferred genre, neither is first person perspectives, so I'll admit I had doubts within the very first chapter of The Tapestry of a Heart; I wasn't sure it was for me.
How wrong I was! Never again will I doubt the words that come out of Erin Zak's brain box and poof onto the page. Somehow, this book works, like soooo works. The main character Finnley O'Connell is a mess, an unknowingly unhappy mess, and so the story follows Finnley's journey to finding happiness, both with herself and within her relationships.
The Tapestry of a Heart is a deep story of self discovery, of riding the waves; the high and lows of life, and ultimately realising that it's okay to be a mess, to not really know what your life path is - so long as it's a mess filled with happiness, joy and love.
This is a love story through and through, from those baby steps in learning to love yourself to loving the life you live, and ultimately to finding that special soulmate kinda love.
As with all of Zak's work, you will really have to read this book for yourself to completely feel what the author intended you to. No amount of reviews will do justice to Finnley's personal and romantic journeys portrayed throughout this story; so I'm not even going to try to!
All you really need to know is that this book is the epitome of feels. It's an age gap romance with a really fabulous love interest for Finnley in the form of the mysterious Emerson. One of my absolute favourite secondary characters is Finnley's gay uncle, Uncle Mark. Who is just everything I imagine a gay uncle ever to be; both the angel and the devil on your shoulder in all the right ways.
At the heart of this story is a tapestry of chosen family, of learning to choose and love yourself first and allowing others to do the same. Each of those threads allows Finnley to find happiness, to truly discover and love herself, and to learn in the process how to reallt, truly, be in love with someone else.
The Tapestry of a Heart is such a humanly raw story and it holds a beautiful message for its readers; you don't need to have it all figured, it's okay to be a hot mess of happiness then perfect.
I received an arc of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
How wrong I was! Never again will I doubt the words that come out of Erin Zak's brain box and poof onto the page. Somehow, this book works, like soooo works. The main character Finnley O'Connell is a mess, an unknowingly unhappy mess, and so the story follows Finnley's journey to finding happiness, both with herself and within her relationships.
The Tapestry of a Heart is a deep story of self discovery, of riding the waves; the high and lows of life, and ultimately realising that it's okay to be a mess, to not really know what your life path is - so long as it's a mess filled with happiness, joy and love.
This is a love story through and through, from those baby steps in learning to love yourself to loving the life you live, and ultimately to finding that special soulmate kinda love.
As with all of Zak's work, you will really have to read this book for yourself to completely feel what the author intended you to. No amount of reviews will do justice to Finnley's personal and romantic journeys portrayed throughout this story; so I'm not even going to try to!
All you really need to know is that this book is the epitome of feels. It's an age gap romance with a really fabulous love interest for Finnley in the form of the mysterious Emerson. One of my absolute favourite secondary characters is Finnley's gay uncle, Uncle Mark. Who is just everything I imagine a gay uncle ever to be; both the angel and the devil on your shoulder in all the right ways.
At the heart of this story is a tapestry of chosen family, of learning to choose and love yourself first and allowing others to do the same. Each of those threads allows Finnley to find happiness, to truly discover and love herself, and to learn in the process how to reallt, truly, be in love with someone else.
The Tapestry of a Heart is such a humanly raw story and it holds a beautiful message for its readers; you don't need to have it all figured, it's okay to be a hot mess of happiness then perfect.
I received an arc of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2025
After getting fired from the family landscaping company by her father, Finnley moves from Florida and her conservative parents to Chicago to live with her favourite uncle, Mark. From a young age she loved staying with Uncle Mark and Aunt Lisa, but hadn’t seen them for a while. During that time they had divorced, Mark had come out as gay, but they were still good friends. When leaving Florida, Finnley also left behind her fiancé Steven, and his teenage daughter Rory.
At a dinner party at Mark’s townhouse, Finnley meets several of his friends, but one especially she couldn’t get out of her mind - an artist who manages an art gallery, Emerson is herself going through a difficult divorce.
This is foremost a story of self discovery - of Finnley understanding that she isn’t happy in her life, her engagement or her sexuality, and allowing herself to want. It’s her discovering that her sexuality isn’t as fixed as she thought it was. There is a lot of introspection in this, angst, sadness, loss, but also ecstatic happiness, lots of hot scenes and so much love between most of the characters. There are also a few fantastic twists in the story that keep us guessing - some sad, some happy. Finnley eventually finds herself a family of her own choosing.
At a dinner party at Mark’s townhouse, Finnley meets several of his friends, but one especially she couldn’t get out of her mind - an artist who manages an art gallery, Emerson is herself going through a difficult divorce.
This is foremost a story of self discovery - of Finnley understanding that she isn’t happy in her life, her engagement or her sexuality, and allowing herself to want. It’s her discovering that her sexuality isn’t as fixed as she thought it was. There is a lot of introspection in this, angst, sadness, loss, but also ecstatic happiness, lots of hot scenes and so much love between most of the characters. There are also a few fantastic twists in the story that keep us guessing - some sad, some happy. Finnley eventually finds herself a family of her own choosing.
July 16, 2024
This book had me full of hope in the beginning but somehow it fell flat as the book progressed. I felt the plot was all over the place which made a resolution anticlimactic. Some very unnecessary and weird dynamic between some of the characters as well.
August 13, 2024
This was an excellent book. I would not personally call this a romance, but a true drama with romantic elements. Enjoyed the story
August 1, 2023
Just fantastic.
I loved every bit of this book. Erin Zak tells such good stories and having heard her speak at an event - I can almost hear her voice telling the story. Its also pretty cool being from the same area as I actually understand her local references. I loved most of the characters in this book and I thought she did a good job of developing each of them. Great book, great characters, and a great happily ever after story. Aaaay yo!
I loved every bit of this book. Erin Zak tells such good stories and having heard her speak at an event - I can almost hear her voice telling the story. Its also pretty cool being from the same area as I actually understand her local references. I loved most of the characters in this book and I thought she did a good job of developing each of them. Great book, great characters, and a great happily ever after story. Aaaay yo!
June 25, 2023
I couldn’t put this down! Erin Zak writes beautiful characters and illustrates their journeys so well. There was great balance highlighting Finn’s emotions and struggles and how she managed her internal dialogue. And then there’s Emerson, a calm storm who was delicate in her ways. This story was executed so well!
PS— spice was great too 😊
PS— spice was great too 😊
July 25, 2023
Amazing! Just amazing!!
July 23, 2023
Beautiful
What a wonderful love story. I totally enjoyed it, and I'll be looking into and I'm looking forward to more stories by Erin Zak.
What a wonderful love story. I totally enjoyed it, and I'll be looking into and I'm looking forward to more stories by Erin Zak.
July 15, 2023
A wonderful romance and well written story, with fun characters. ❤️
July 10, 2023
Wow! My new favorite of Erin Zak's
I loved every part of this novel! As I was reading it I thought this would be an excellent movie; the characters were just so captivating. Also I may be a tad biased because the main character referenced my favorite band (Tedeschi Trucks) that is not mainstream at all so I sent a screenshot to my friends like "you must read this book!!"
I loved every part of this novel! As I was reading it I thought this would be an excellent movie; the characters were just so captivating. Also I may be a tad biased because the main character referenced my favorite band (Tedeschi Trucks) that is not mainstream at all so I sent a screenshot to my friends like "you must read this book!!"
July 5, 2023
A fantastic read
Definitely a fabulous read. I also love how she handled the drama so well. When I saw certain events coming together, there was an uneasy churning in my stomach, but she handled them so well, instead of just piling on an unnecessary amount of drama. Well done. Would definitely recommend.
Definitely a fabulous read. I also love how she handled the drama so well. When I saw certain events coming together, there was an uneasy churning in my stomach, but she handled them so well, instead of just piling on an unnecessary amount of drama. Well done. Would definitely recommend.
June 6, 2023
Living a life of contentment of taking the leap of faith to find true happiness? Sometimes you just have to take what life throws at you and take a hint for change.
Finnley O’ Connell is one of the million people in the world who keeps on living the life she has, because she is too afraid of what could happen if she changed it. Working as an accountant for the family business and on the verge to get married with her fiancée Steven. One thing is clear, Finnley doesn’t know that she is not happy with the way things have turned out for her. It seems she is following a path she believes she should follow, and although everything seems fine on the surface, the reality is that she is just surviving, going along with the flow, but not really living. When her father and mother decide to fire her from the family business and send her to Chicago to her uncle Mark, Finnley’s life will take a curious and unexpected turns of events. She will embark on a journey to understand who she truly is and what she wants from life.
A search for happiness that has never been so full of fate twists.
Finding family and discovering your identity and things you never thought you could feel.
This is my second book by Erin Zak, I had previously read the Hummingbird Sanctuary and enjoyed it very much, and The Tapestry of a Heart didn’t disappoint.
There’s a lot going on in the plot and there are many twists that would let you think that when it rains it pours… but also many moments of sweetness and heartfelt revelations, not to mention the spicy scenes I’m still trying to recover from.
This novel shows you that sometimes you have to be patient for things to work out, that you have to find your own way, solve all your problems before you can truly be happy with someone else. It teaches you that there’s a path for each of us and that sometimes it’s not the one we always thought we should follow. Things happen for a reason (or maybe not), but it’s up to us to keep on going and make the most out of them, taking day by day.
I loved the quote: “We show up for the people we love. Period. It doesn’t matter what kind of love it is. You show up.”
I think it’s the essence of the whole novel, and it shows in so many of the characters of The Tapestry of a Heart, main characters, and secondary ones. It takes time, it does, but when you care, you will eventually show up when needed.
Also, I do believe in love at first sight. Call me a hopeless romantic, but when you know, you know. Cupid exists!
ps. I love the cover and the meaning.
4.5 stars for me!
Finnley O’ Connell is one of the million people in the world who keeps on living the life she has, because she is too afraid of what could happen if she changed it. Working as an accountant for the family business and on the verge to get married with her fiancée Steven. One thing is clear, Finnley doesn’t know that she is not happy with the way things have turned out for her. It seems she is following a path she believes she should follow, and although everything seems fine on the surface, the reality is that she is just surviving, going along with the flow, but not really living. When her father and mother decide to fire her from the family business and send her to Chicago to her uncle Mark, Finnley’s life will take a curious and unexpected turns of events. She will embark on a journey to understand who she truly is and what she wants from life.
A search for happiness that has never been so full of fate twists.
Finding family and discovering your identity and things you never thought you could feel.
This is my second book by Erin Zak, I had previously read the Hummingbird Sanctuary and enjoyed it very much, and The Tapestry of a Heart didn’t disappoint.
There’s a lot going on in the plot and there are many twists that would let you think that when it rains it pours… but also many moments of sweetness and heartfelt revelations, not to mention the spicy scenes I’m still trying to recover from.
This novel shows you that sometimes you have to be patient for things to work out, that you have to find your own way, solve all your problems before you can truly be happy with someone else. It teaches you that there’s a path for each of us and that sometimes it’s not the one we always thought we should follow. Things happen for a reason (or maybe not), but it’s up to us to keep on going and make the most out of them, taking day by day.
I loved the quote: “We show up for the people we love. Period. It doesn’t matter what kind of love it is. You show up.”
I think it’s the essence of the whole novel, and it shows in so many of the characters of The Tapestry of a Heart, main characters, and secondary ones. It takes time, it does, but when you care, you will eventually show up when needed.
Also, I do believe in love at first sight. Call me a hopeless romantic, but when you know, you know. Cupid exists!
ps. I love the cover and the meaning.
4.5 stars for me!
June 5, 2023
‘The Tapestry of a Heart’ feels like the Erin Zak book I have been waiting for. She has poured so much of herself into this story and it feels like a huge turning point for her creatively. I have read all of Zak’s books and I have seen her style develop and her confidence bloom, which is a gorgeous thing to see evolve. Her characters are so inherently hers; they are unapologetic, authentically flawed, and loveable in every way.
Tapestry follows Finnley, who is heading to Chicago, after being fired from her family business. She had everything planned out for her, but quickly realises that they were never her plans to begin with. Finnley is a people pleaser and it isn’t until she moves in with her effervescent uncle, that she sees that there is not just one way to live. Cue the effortlessly cool, charismatic Emerson.
The chemistry between Finnley and Emerson is adorably awkward and insanely hot, in equal measure. The way the two women give each other the ability to grow from their negative, past relationships and into the people they want to be is gorgeous. Zak gives them space to fully be themselves and view one another’s transformations, which gives the whole romance so much more depth and authenticity. Of course, there is a brilliant cast of supporting characters and some easter eggs in there for fans which I loved spotting.
One thing that always makes me go back to Zak’s novels is the way she writes female characters. They are always so individual and multilayered with their own histories and hangups. Zak never gives a cookie-cutter romance; instead she has this ability to write stories that burrow under your skin, characters you can’t help but relate to and love stories that you cheer loudly for. Tapestry is the culmination of all of Zak’s talents but also, in my opinion, the first book where she has truly let go and written from her heart. She embraces how human we all are and how there are a million ways to live and an infinite number of ways to love.
I fell for Finnley one chapter in and she has to be one of my favourite MCs in a long time. There is something about her story and the way she accepts herself, even when it means changing everything, that makes me want to be braver. Zak blew me away with this one and now she is in full bloom as an author, I cannot wait to see what she does next.
Tapestry follows Finnley, who is heading to Chicago, after being fired from her family business. She had everything planned out for her, but quickly realises that they were never her plans to begin with. Finnley is a people pleaser and it isn’t until she moves in with her effervescent uncle, that she sees that there is not just one way to live. Cue the effortlessly cool, charismatic Emerson.
The chemistry between Finnley and Emerson is adorably awkward and insanely hot, in equal measure. The way the two women give each other the ability to grow from their negative, past relationships and into the people they want to be is gorgeous. Zak gives them space to fully be themselves and view one another’s transformations, which gives the whole romance so much more depth and authenticity. Of course, there is a brilliant cast of supporting characters and some easter eggs in there for fans which I loved spotting.
One thing that always makes me go back to Zak’s novels is the way she writes female characters. They are always so individual and multilayered with their own histories and hangups. Zak never gives a cookie-cutter romance; instead she has this ability to write stories that burrow under your skin, characters you can’t help but relate to and love stories that you cheer loudly for. Tapestry is the culmination of all of Zak’s talents but also, in my opinion, the first book where she has truly let go and written from her heart. She embraces how human we all are and how there are a million ways to live and an infinite number of ways to love.
I fell for Finnley one chapter in and she has to be one of my favourite MCs in a long time. There is something about her story and the way she accepts herself, even when it means changing everything, that makes me want to be braver. Zak blew me away with this one and now she is in full bloom as an author, I cannot wait to see what she does next.
November 25, 2025
What a gem!
I bought this book as soon as it came out. It just took me a while together to it. I have a top 25 lesfic authors to whom I was in the middle of a lot series. But I have been a fan of this author since I read, “Falling Into Her.” I’ve read just about all of her books, but that one remains my most favorite. The one I have read more than 10 times. It’s something about Kathryn thy keeps me coming back.
This author seems to love the whole “coming to terms with their sexual orientation after dating men exclusively” situation. We find that here with our protagonist Finnley. She is such a lovely person. Oblivious, blind, and so very kind to everyone. She is finally thrust into the drivers seat of her own life. Unfortunately, she has a fiancé. And that is such a drain on her and the reader alike. Finnley finds herself navigating a well of unhappiness and settling in her life.
It takes seeing something she actually likes, brings her immense happiness, and finds that happiness is in store for her after all. Were introduced to Emerson. Emerson winds up playing a huge part in Finnley’s life and future. It’s all a bit messy. The mess just keeps piling up and comes to a head on many different fronts.
I do have one beef with Emerson. And I a not so sure that Finnley should have made it easy for Emerson when she walked away with something g that should have been left in the past. Of course I understand the situation. It’s not how thy asked Finnley to take care of her situation. Emerson left hand in hand with no word on what was playing out for over 3 weeks. For someone so attuned to what’s right when it comes to Finnley wasn’t and didn’t adhere to it in the same way.
That disappointed me. And it’s hard to fully trust in someone that just leaves… It makes it a little hard to believe in a future the same way as before that happens. Abandonment is a real struggle for whatever reason is given for it. This is what makes it hard for me to get to the 5 that the writing deserves. Except, this story had interesting and quirky characters but I needed just a bit more from Emerson and definitely a little bit more backbone from Finnley. Good story but not the greatest for me compared to some of the authors other books.
I bought this book as soon as it came out. It just took me a while together to it. I have a top 25 lesfic authors to whom I was in the middle of a lot series. But I have been a fan of this author since I read, “Falling Into Her.” I’ve read just about all of her books, but that one remains my most favorite. The one I have read more than 10 times. It’s something about Kathryn thy keeps me coming back.
This author seems to love the whole “coming to terms with their sexual orientation after dating men exclusively” situation. We find that here with our protagonist Finnley. She is such a lovely person. Oblivious, blind, and so very kind to everyone. She is finally thrust into the drivers seat of her own life. Unfortunately, she has a fiancé. And that is such a drain on her and the reader alike. Finnley finds herself navigating a well of unhappiness and settling in her life.
It takes seeing something she actually likes, brings her immense happiness, and finds that happiness is in store for her after all. Were introduced to Emerson. Emerson winds up playing a huge part in Finnley’s life and future. It’s all a bit messy. The mess just keeps piling up and comes to a head on many different fronts.
I do have one beef with Emerson. And I a not so sure that Finnley should have made it easy for Emerson when she walked away with something g that should have been left in the past. Of course I understand the situation. It’s not how thy asked Finnley to take care of her situation. Emerson left hand in hand with no word on what was playing out for over 3 weeks. For someone so attuned to what’s right when it comes to Finnley wasn’t and didn’t adhere to it in the same way.
That disappointed me. And it’s hard to fully trust in someone that just leaves… It makes it a little hard to believe in a future the same way as before that happens. Abandonment is a real struggle for whatever reason is given for it. This is what makes it hard for me to get to the 5 that the writing deserves. Except, this story had interesting and quirky characters but I needed just a bit more from Emerson and definitely a little bit more backbone from Finnley. Good story but not the greatest for me compared to some of the authors other books.
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