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The Apple Diary
Following the death of her grandmother, reluctant heiress Madilyn Marak agrees to stay with her grandfather at the estate for the summer. While there, she finds a diary—The Apple Diary—written by her great-grandmother Isabel, telling the story of a long ago love affair with a woman named Lorah.
After reading about the affair, in the summer of 1933, Madilyn feels a bond with the two women and is determined to bring Isabel’s beloved orchard—which had fallen into ruins—back to life again.
The normally quiet and reserved Madilyn finds a new joy in life as she becomes friends with the outgoing and energetic Dylan Hayes who has come to live on the property and replant the orchard. As she is transformed from a stoic and passive heiress to a happy and spirited woman, she realizes the similarities of her journey and that of Isabel’s.
Like Isabel, will she marry a man she doesn’t love? Or will she find the strength that eluded Isabel and follow her heart?
After reading about the affair, in the summer of 1933, Madilyn feels a bond with the two women and is determined to bring Isabel’s beloved orchard—which had fallen into ruins—back to life again.
The normally quiet and reserved Madilyn finds a new joy in life as she becomes friends with the outgoing and energetic Dylan Hayes who has come to live on the property and replant the orchard. As she is transformed from a stoic and passive heiress to a happy and spirited woman, she realizes the similarities of her journey and that of Isabel’s.
Like Isabel, will she marry a man she doesn’t love? Or will she find the strength that eluded Isabel and follow her heart?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2023
52 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,541 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
November 29, 2023
The Apple Diary is a heartwarming romance as only Gerri Hill can offer. She gives us Madilyn Marak, the daughter of a wealthy family who is seeking purpose in her role as the responsible one. There is also Dylan Hayes who is burying her last known relative as she looks for a job and a roof over her head. These two are at opposite ends of society yet find each other when they need to the most.
Hill’s magic is that she makes us care deeply for her characters. We all see bits and pieces of ourselves in Maddie and Dylan and so we are invested in their story.
The Apple Diary is beautifully written with attention to nuance and descriptive detail. The storytelling is at the finest level.
I received an advance review copy from Bella Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hill’s magic is that she makes us care deeply for her characters. We all see bits and pieces of ourselves in Maddie and Dylan and so we are invested in their story.
The Apple Diary is beautifully written with attention to nuance and descriptive detail. The storytelling is at the finest level.
I received an advance review copy from Bella Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2024
4.5⭐️
A wonderful, heartwarming, and sweet romance by one of my favorite authors, Gerri Hill.
The setting, on a family estate with an orchard, is beautifully, and vividly described. I could imagine strolling through the orchard with Madilyn and Dylan, enjoying the view, or sitting on the bridge.
Gerri Hill tells the story of Madilyn and Dylan with great feelings and wonderfully combines the story of Maddie's great-grandmother with that of today.
Once more Abby Craden did a fantastic job. I loved Grandpa's voice.
Highly recommended to all romance fans.
A wonderful, heartwarming, and sweet romance by one of my favorite authors, Gerri Hill.
The setting, on a family estate with an orchard, is beautifully, and vividly described. I could imagine strolling through the orchard with Madilyn and Dylan, enjoying the view, or sitting on the bridge.
Gerri Hill tells the story of Madilyn and Dylan with great feelings and wonderfully combines the story of Maddie's great-grandmother with that of today.
Once more Abby Craden did a fantastic job. I loved Grandpa's voice.
Highly recommended to all romance fans.
December 22, 2023
The Apple Diary was my first book by author Gerri Hill and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I listened to the audiobook that was very well narrated by Abby Cranden. The Apple Diary took place in Pennsylvania on a massive family estate. The Marak family had owned and lived on the estate for several generations. It was located in the part of Pennsylvania that was known for its rich and expansive farmlands and apple orchards. Gerri Hill’s colorful and detailed descriptions of the land made it very easy to visualize. The Apple Diary was a heartwarming story that wrapped its arms around a wealthy family, the discovery of a long forgotten diary that described the implications of an unconventional romance that occurred in 1933 and the search for purpose and meaning in one’s life.
Madilyn Marak was a twenty-seven year old young woman when her grandmother died. She traveled from the condominium she owned in the city of Philadelphia to her grandparent’s estate situated in the farmlands of Pennsylvania for her grandmother’s funeral. Madilyn or Maddy as her grandfather called her, had always shared a special relationship with her grandparents. She treasured the time that she got to spend with them. Maddy did not have a close relationship with her own mother and older brother. Growing up, Maddy’s mother was never around. She was brought up by the Nannies her mother hired and then sent to boarding school as soon as she was old enough. At the time of her grandmother’s death, Maddy’s mother was working on her fourth marriage. Maddy’s mother had never had a close relationship with her own father, Maddy’s grandfather, so it was not surprising that her mother left as soon as the funeral was over. On the other hand, Maddy loved, respected and cared greatly for her grandfather. He was already eighty-nine years old and Maddy didn’t know how much time they had left to enjoy one another’s company. Maddy decided to stay at the family estate for a while to keep her grandfather company after the funeral.
As Maddy settled in at the family estate, after her mother’s and brother’s departure, she decided to explore a little. She wasn’t sure why she decided to venture up into the attic but she felt herself lured up there. As Maddy began to open chests and draws up there, she uncovered a very old book. At first Maddy wasn’t sure if it was a journal or a diary. She soon realized that it was her great grandmother’s Isabel’s diary that she had found. Maddy wasn’t sure what she was going to find in the diary but she took it down to her room to find out. She didn’t know a lot about her great grandmother since she died at the very young age of 36. Isabel had been her grandfather’s mother. As Maddy began to read the diary she found that she couldn’t pull herself away from it. Maddy discovered that her great grandmother Isabel was very lonely living on the family estate. Her husband, Maddy’s great grandfather was away very often. He was more interested in making money than anything else. Isabel’s main comfort was the apple orchards. She adored the apple orchards and spent many hours walking around them. Then one day, a traveling shoe saleswoman appeared. The woman introduced herself as Lorah. Over time, Isabel and Lorah fell in love. Isabel was frightened at the realization that she loved another woman. She tried to ignore her feelings. Isabel was married after all. Finally, she gave into her feelings and let herself love Lorah in a way that she could never had loved her husband. The year was 1933, though, and Isabel knew that it would never be accepted. Sadly, Lorah left Isabel behind when she went back to her farm to live. Isabel refused to leave with Lorah. Instead she remained in her loveless marriage until she died at the age of thirty-six.
After reading her great grandmother’s diary, Maddy was intent on learning more about her great grandmother and in restoring the apple orchards to their former glory. After getting her grandfather’s blessing for the project, Maddy placed an ad for an orchardist. Several men and one woman applied. The woman was Dylan Hayes. She was twenty-nine years old and had recently lost her uncle, her last surviving relative. Dylan had been living with her uncle for the last few years so she could help him with his apple orchards and farm and take care of him when he got really sick. Now Dylan was faced with selling her uncle’s apple orchards and farm to pay for his medical expenses. If Dylan didn’t get this job, she wasn’t sure where she would live or what she would do. Even though Dylan had the least amount of experience when it came to restoring apple orchards, there was something about her that made Maddy feel that she was the one she should hire and she did. The more time that Maddy and Dylan spent together, the more their lives became interwoven. Maddy had never had a friend like Dylan where she was just Maddy and not Madilyn Marak, heiress. What blossomed between Maddy and Dylan was fragile, sweet and honest. Was there more of a connection between them than either one could have imagined? Would Maddy share her great grandmother’s diary with Dylan? What would they discover about each other?
The Apple Diary by Gerri Hill was told in two timelines. Isabel’s diary entries, that described her lonely existence until she met Lorah, occurred in 1933 and Maddy’s life on the family estate was in present times. Gerri Hill proved to be a masterful storyteller. The Apple Diary was well written and the characters were well thought out. This compelling book was about romance, grief, loss, coming to terms with difficult decisions and situations, acceptance, trust, happiness and some sadness. I really enjoyed listening to this book and highly recommend it. I will definitely read more books by this author.
Thank you to Tantor Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Apple Diary by Gerri Hill through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Madilyn Marak was a twenty-seven year old young woman when her grandmother died. She traveled from the condominium she owned in the city of Philadelphia to her grandparent’s estate situated in the farmlands of Pennsylvania for her grandmother’s funeral. Madilyn or Maddy as her grandfather called her, had always shared a special relationship with her grandparents. She treasured the time that she got to spend with them. Maddy did not have a close relationship with her own mother and older brother. Growing up, Maddy’s mother was never around. She was brought up by the Nannies her mother hired and then sent to boarding school as soon as she was old enough. At the time of her grandmother’s death, Maddy’s mother was working on her fourth marriage. Maddy’s mother had never had a close relationship with her own father, Maddy’s grandfather, so it was not surprising that her mother left as soon as the funeral was over. On the other hand, Maddy loved, respected and cared greatly for her grandfather. He was already eighty-nine years old and Maddy didn’t know how much time they had left to enjoy one another’s company. Maddy decided to stay at the family estate for a while to keep her grandfather company after the funeral.
As Maddy settled in at the family estate, after her mother’s and brother’s departure, she decided to explore a little. She wasn’t sure why she decided to venture up into the attic but she felt herself lured up there. As Maddy began to open chests and draws up there, she uncovered a very old book. At first Maddy wasn’t sure if it was a journal or a diary. She soon realized that it was her great grandmother’s Isabel’s diary that she had found. Maddy wasn’t sure what she was going to find in the diary but she took it down to her room to find out. She didn’t know a lot about her great grandmother since she died at the very young age of 36. Isabel had been her grandfather’s mother. As Maddy began to read the diary she found that she couldn’t pull herself away from it. Maddy discovered that her great grandmother Isabel was very lonely living on the family estate. Her husband, Maddy’s great grandfather was away very often. He was more interested in making money than anything else. Isabel’s main comfort was the apple orchards. She adored the apple orchards and spent many hours walking around them. Then one day, a traveling shoe saleswoman appeared. The woman introduced herself as Lorah. Over time, Isabel and Lorah fell in love. Isabel was frightened at the realization that she loved another woman. She tried to ignore her feelings. Isabel was married after all. Finally, she gave into her feelings and let herself love Lorah in a way that she could never had loved her husband. The year was 1933, though, and Isabel knew that it would never be accepted. Sadly, Lorah left Isabel behind when she went back to her farm to live. Isabel refused to leave with Lorah. Instead she remained in her loveless marriage until she died at the age of thirty-six.
After reading her great grandmother’s diary, Maddy was intent on learning more about her great grandmother and in restoring the apple orchards to their former glory. After getting her grandfather’s blessing for the project, Maddy placed an ad for an orchardist. Several men and one woman applied. The woman was Dylan Hayes. She was twenty-nine years old and had recently lost her uncle, her last surviving relative. Dylan had been living with her uncle for the last few years so she could help him with his apple orchards and farm and take care of him when he got really sick. Now Dylan was faced with selling her uncle’s apple orchards and farm to pay for his medical expenses. If Dylan didn’t get this job, she wasn’t sure where she would live or what she would do. Even though Dylan had the least amount of experience when it came to restoring apple orchards, there was something about her that made Maddy feel that she was the one she should hire and she did. The more time that Maddy and Dylan spent together, the more their lives became interwoven. Maddy had never had a friend like Dylan where she was just Maddy and not Madilyn Marak, heiress. What blossomed between Maddy and Dylan was fragile, sweet and honest. Was there more of a connection between them than either one could have imagined? Would Maddy share her great grandmother’s diary with Dylan? What would they discover about each other?
The Apple Diary by Gerri Hill was told in two timelines. Isabel’s diary entries, that described her lonely existence until she met Lorah, occurred in 1933 and Maddy’s life on the family estate was in present times. Gerri Hill proved to be a masterful storyteller. The Apple Diary was well written and the characters were well thought out. This compelling book was about romance, grief, loss, coming to terms with difficult decisions and situations, acceptance, trust, happiness and some sadness. I really enjoyed listening to this book and highly recommend it. I will definitely read more books by this author.
Thank you to Tantor Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Apple Diary by Gerri Hill through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2024
"The Apple Diary" is a sweet and heartwarming romance. This isn’t one of Hill’s scary or thriller reads, it’s pure romance from beginning to end. There are actually two romances featured.
Madilyn is at her grandfather’s estate after the death of her grandmother. She’s asked to stay a while and in the process of moving, finds an old diary. It turns out to be her great-grandmother’s diary. It details Isabel’s, Madilyn’s great-grandmother, affair with a woman in 1933 and changes her life.
After reading the diary she decides to replant and open the apple orchard that used to cover the acres around the home. She hires Dylan to be in charge of getting the orchard back up again. Dylan is the opposite of Madilyn. Whereas Madilyn is lonely and just living her life, she isn’t very happy. Dylan, on the other hand, is more outgoing and carefree and sees the positive side to things.
There were many similarities between Isabel’s story and Madilyn’s. Both suffer from loneliness and boredom. They find friendship in unexpected places that leads to more. I was heart broken for Isabel and really connected with her story. The loneliness and her grief really come through in the pages of the diary. I could see how that would touch and effect Madilyn the way it did.
This is a slow burn and Hill really takes her time with establishing the characters and the romance. You really get to know both Madilyn and Dylan as people and as friends before things start to morph into the romantic. This is also a toaster-oven romance, which is in line with Hill. I have to say I liked the fact that Madilyn didn’t get caught up in her sexuality. She accepts things as they are once she realizes her feelings for Dylan. It’s nice to see Hill change things up a bit.
The reason I’m not giving it five stars is that I did feel it was a little repetitive in places. A more me thing is that it leaned in a little too heavy on the sappy fated love vibe for me.
Overall, this was a hit for me and I recommend it for fans of romance, especially nature-loving romance fans.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Madilyn is at her grandfather’s estate after the death of her grandmother. She’s asked to stay a while and in the process of moving, finds an old diary. It turns out to be her great-grandmother’s diary. It details Isabel’s, Madilyn’s great-grandmother, affair with a woman in 1933 and changes her life.
After reading the diary she decides to replant and open the apple orchard that used to cover the acres around the home. She hires Dylan to be in charge of getting the orchard back up again. Dylan is the opposite of Madilyn. Whereas Madilyn is lonely and just living her life, she isn’t very happy. Dylan, on the other hand, is more outgoing and carefree and sees the positive side to things.
There were many similarities between Isabel’s story and Madilyn’s. Both suffer from loneliness and boredom. They find friendship in unexpected places that leads to more. I was heart broken for Isabel and really connected with her story. The loneliness and her grief really come through in the pages of the diary. I could see how that would touch and effect Madilyn the way it did.
This is a slow burn and Hill really takes her time with establishing the characters and the romance. You really get to know both Madilyn and Dylan as people and as friends before things start to morph into the romantic. This is also a toaster-oven romance, which is in line with Hill. I have to say I liked the fact that Madilyn didn’t get caught up in her sexuality. She accepts things as they are once she realizes her feelings for Dylan. It’s nice to see Hill change things up a bit.
The reason I’m not giving it five stars is that I did feel it was a little repetitive in places. A more me thing is that it leaned in a little too heavy on the sappy fated love vibe for me.
Overall, this was a hit for me and I recommend it for fans of romance, especially nature-loving romance fans.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2023
I have enjoyed every Gerri Hill book I have read, and this one is no different. The story centers on a diary that Madilyn discovers when she returns to her family’s estate. The diary prompts a significant change in how she decides to live her life. Unlike some stories that save the details of the past romance for the end, this one unfolds smoothly. I appreciate that I didn't have to endure flashbacks in alternating chapters until the conclusion. The romance and characters are well-crafted, although the grandfather's character made me cringe a bit. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2023
The was an old fashioned romance story set on an estate in Pennsylvania. Madilyn Marak is an heiress to a very wealthy family that she has never fit in with. She’s lonely and feels unfulfilled with her society life and comes to live on the family estate with her grandfather. One day she finds an old diary and begins reading it. Gerri Hill wrote the first half of the book with us reading this 100 year old diary.
Dylan Hayes lives with her uncle tending his apple orchard. She answers an add for an Orchardist at the Marsk estate.
Hill is at her finest with her description of the 1000 acre estate with the old orchard and the other trees and wildlife.
I enjoyed this book very much as I have all of Hill’s stories. I can always relate to the characters she writes and her love of nature. I love being outside and feel at home with all of writing.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
February 24, 2024
As always, GH writes so well and produces a wonderful story. Initially worried about double time line but that was handled really well. Highly recommended.
December 25, 2023
An absolutely beautiful, romantic book! It's incredible how Gerri Hill continues to come up with original, satisfying stories.
Loved the audio narrated by Abby Craden. Definitely a dream team scenario. Highly recommend!
Loved the audio narrated by Abby Craden. Definitely a dream team scenario. Highly recommend!
July 12, 2024
Wonderful story and audiobook.
I loved Abby Craden and the story Gerri Hill told us.
I loved Abby Craden and the story Gerri Hill told us.
May 21, 2024
4 stars
I enjoyed it. Unlike a lot of Hill's books, this one was rather slow-paced, a lot of character exposition. Which was well handled, so I wasn't bored, even though in general I prefer a bit of action with my romance. But yeah, not the best the author's ever written, but not the worst either, which means four stars, because even a "bad" Hill book is a three.
I enjoyed it. Unlike a lot of Hill's books, this one was rather slow-paced, a lot of character exposition. Which was well handled, so I wasn't bored, even though in general I prefer a bit of action with my romance. But yeah, not the best the author's ever written, but not the worst either, which means four stars, because even a "bad" Hill book is a three.
March 27, 2024
So sweet!
Maddie hires Dylan to help get the orchard at her grandfather’s estate up and running again after finding her grandmother’s diary that exposes a secret relationship she had with a woman could Lorah. Together Maddie and Dylan find they make a great team but also have a connection with one another beyond work. As they grow closer and share stories, they realise it might just be fate that’s brought them together.
Such a lovely heartfelt story! I loved that it was in two parts, exploring the diary of Isabel and Lorah, then how life brought Maddie and Dylan together bonding over the same shared love of the orchard that Maddie’s Grandmother Isabel, and Lorah had. The sentiment running through this story was just beautiful. Both Maddie and Dylan were so different, yet they had insecurities that helped them to find common ground and a friendship.
The parallels between Maddie and her grandmother were amazing, and the same could be said for Dylan too when it was revealed how she connected in this greater love story. It was lovely to watch their friendship grow and develop into more, even though Maddie was unsure of her feelings and what acting on them might mean, especially after her grandfather died. Both her and Dylan lost a loved one and it was that shared experience that really gave them further chance to bond. Dylan was so good for Maddie as she encouraged her to dare and dream, and Maddie returned the favour by having faith in Dylan and trusting her with the success of the orchard and her visions.
A truly beautiful and very heartfelt romance, with characters that shared wonderful connections and such heart.
Maddie hires Dylan to help get the orchard at her grandfather’s estate up and running again after finding her grandmother’s diary that exposes a secret relationship she had with a woman could Lorah. Together Maddie and Dylan find they make a great team but also have a connection with one another beyond work. As they grow closer and share stories, they realise it might just be fate that’s brought them together.
Such a lovely heartfelt story! I loved that it was in two parts, exploring the diary of Isabel and Lorah, then how life brought Maddie and Dylan together bonding over the same shared love of the orchard that Maddie’s Grandmother Isabel, and Lorah had. The sentiment running through this story was just beautiful. Both Maddie and Dylan were so different, yet they had insecurities that helped them to find common ground and a friendship.
The parallels between Maddie and her grandmother were amazing, and the same could be said for Dylan too when it was revealed how she connected in this greater love story. It was lovely to watch their friendship grow and develop into more, even though Maddie was unsure of her feelings and what acting on them might mean, especially after her grandfather died. Both her and Dylan lost a loved one and it was that shared experience that really gave them further chance to bond. Dylan was so good for Maddie as she encouraged her to dare and dream, and Maddie returned the favour by having faith in Dylan and trusting her with the success of the orchard and her visions.
A truly beautiful and very heartfelt romance, with characters that shared wonderful connections and such heart.
November 29, 2023
I’ve enjoyed many Gerri Hill books set mostly in Texas, Arizona and Colorado. This was set in the vast farmlands of Pennsylvania, revolving around apple orchards and the distinguished Marak family who, at one time, owned most of the land. The Marek men had more interest in earning money than in making friends. Our focus is on Madilyn Marek who refused to be molded into the image of her mother and the belief that anyone who wasn’t a Marak was beneath them; a commoner.
When Madilyn’s grandmother died, she was asked to return to the farm’s elegant estate to provide company for her grieving 89 year old grandfather. When going through things stored in a closet she found her great-grandmother Isabel’s old diary and entries, enlightening her to the realization that Isabel had been in a lesbian relationship with a woman named Lorah. Madilyn was entranced by the story of Isabel and Lorah, who broke things off, for in 1933 they simply had no future together because of the stigma and grief it would cause. Isabel died of loneliness at age 36.
Madilyn wanted to restore the long-neglected apple trees where the two former lovers would picnic together in privacy, and where the lonely Isabel spent endless hours alone, talking to the breezes, grieving over her lost relationship.
Dylan was the outgoing, vivacious woman Madilyn chose to hire. Yes, they became closer and Madilyn became known as Maddie, opening up to her natural, happier self. I feel that it also includes a little something that I’ve seen in Gerri Hill before, a wee touch of the paranormal, for when Dylan was later shown the diaries, discovering that Lorah was her great-aunt, both she and Maddie experienced similar feelings of something unexplainable.
I don’t want to give too much away, but just know that the story is well-written, very compelling and romantic. I thoroughly loved reading it and want to thank NetGalley and Bella Books for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
When Madilyn’s grandmother died, she was asked to return to the farm’s elegant estate to provide company for her grieving 89 year old grandfather. When going through things stored in a closet she found her great-grandmother Isabel’s old diary and entries, enlightening her to the realization that Isabel had been in a lesbian relationship with a woman named Lorah. Madilyn was entranced by the story of Isabel and Lorah, who broke things off, for in 1933 they simply had no future together because of the stigma and grief it would cause. Isabel died of loneliness at age 36.
Madilyn wanted to restore the long-neglected apple trees where the two former lovers would picnic together in privacy, and where the lonely Isabel spent endless hours alone, talking to the breezes, grieving over her lost relationship.
Dylan was the outgoing, vivacious woman Madilyn chose to hire. Yes, they became closer and Madilyn became known as Maddie, opening up to her natural, happier self. I feel that it also includes a little something that I’ve seen in Gerri Hill before, a wee touch of the paranormal, for when Dylan was later shown the diaries, discovering that Lorah was her great-aunt, both she and Maddie experienced similar feelings of something unexplainable.
I don’t want to give too much away, but just know that the story is well-written, very compelling and romantic. I thoroughly loved reading it and want to thank NetGalley and Bella Books for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 24, 2023
4.5 because frankly, had imagined some drama that never came to be, but otherwise another great story by Hill with the enchanting/quirky setting, and a touch of the unexplained. Craden excels once again (the grandfather’s voice was fantastic).
December 11, 2023
Over the years, Gerri Hill has scared me silly with her paranormal tales, thrilled me with her intrigue and mystery stories, and made my heart melt many times with her romances. With her newest novel, The Apple Diary, Ms. Hill has introduced us to the wealthy Marak family, and pulled us into not one, but two multi-generational love stories.
This is a slow-burn romance that begins with present day Madilyn (Maddie) Marak finding her great-grandmother Isabel’s diary in the attic of her family’s mansion. It tells of the love affair Isabel had with a woman named Lorah in the summer of 1933. Many of Isabel and Lorah’s meetings took place in an apple orchard on the property.
Later, when Maddie found the orchard in ruins, she hires Dylan Hayes to help her restore it to its former glory. As the two work together, they form a connection that Maddie finds is eerily similar to Isabel and Lorah. The question is, will Maddie follow in her great grandmother’s footsteps, or will she shake off her family’s expectations, and choose happiness instead?
This is such an enchanting story, a pair of romances, filled with joy, sadness, love, grief, and pretty much every emotion in between. This novel has everything I expect from one of Gerri Hill’s love stories; a gorgeous setting, enchanting and realistic characters, and of course a heart stirring romance. I highly recommend The Apple Diary.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bella Books for allowing me to read and honestly review this novel.
This is a slow-burn romance that begins with present day Madilyn (Maddie) Marak finding her great-grandmother Isabel’s diary in the attic of her family’s mansion. It tells of the love affair Isabel had with a woman named Lorah in the summer of 1933. Many of Isabel and Lorah’s meetings took place in an apple orchard on the property.
Later, when Maddie found the orchard in ruins, she hires Dylan Hayes to help her restore it to its former glory. As the two work together, they form a connection that Maddie finds is eerily similar to Isabel and Lorah. The question is, will Maddie follow in her great grandmother’s footsteps, or will she shake off her family’s expectations, and choose happiness instead?
This is such an enchanting story, a pair of romances, filled with joy, sadness, love, grief, and pretty much every emotion in between. This novel has everything I expect from one of Gerri Hill’s love stories; a gorgeous setting, enchanting and realistic characters, and of course a heart stirring romance. I highly recommend The Apple Diary.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bella Books for allowing me to read and honestly review this novel.
November 30, 2023
Madilyn is mourning her grandmother and decides to stay a bit longer at her family estate to be with her grandfather. While exploring her family estate she founds a diary that belong to her great grandmother Isabel and although she feels that she shouldn’t read it feels compell to and is shock to learn that Isabel fell in love with a woman name Lorah. As she read her story she heart broken for her great grandmother and decided to rebuild the orchard in honor of both women. Dylan drop everything to be with her uncle and is about to lose last member of her family and worry she won’t be able to find a job or place to live when she learns about a job about overseeing the replanting of the orchard. Madilyn and Dylan grow closer as Madilyn starts to realize she experiencing the same feelings her great grandmother was feeling for Lorah and she realizes she have to live for herself not for someone else and to honor Isabel and Lorah she will follow heart. I love this read and Madilyn relationship with grandfather was adorable and sad to see him heartbroken over losing his wife but I’m happy he had Madilyn because his daughter is selfish and right along with his grandson even though we didn’t get to meet him but heard a lot about him.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
July 13, 2024
Gerri Hill rarely disappoints !
January 5, 2024
This story reminds me a bit of Letters never sent by Sandra Moran or the movie Snapshots with painful love stories between women from the past, coupled with travel between past and present. The book is in two parts, the first on the diary, tellling the story between Isabel and Lorah. I was so swept in, each time Madilyn stopped reading to eat, sleep or recover I was screaming « come on ! I would read the whole thing in 30 min ». Of course I know it would totally be catastrophic in terms of storytelling for the book. The second part is focused on the story between Madilyn and Dylan, it’s very sweet and delicate. I love that there is this huge part of fate bringing these two characters together, as almost an apology the universe is giving for making souls from the past suffer.Hill lays the notion of soulmates and lingering spirits. It gives the story poetry, letting the reader choose how they want to interpret the story. There is no major drama between Dylan and Maddie, though there was potential there. Hill refused to make them suffer after the tragic ending of their ancestors.
I found the story telling immersive, I really felt like I was watching the valley, walking in the orchard. Chapters are short and I just didn’t want to stop.
It’s almost useless to comment on Abby’s Craden narration that now became familiar and comforting, while making beautiful stories sublime.
I finally dipped my toe in Gerri Hill’s world. I definitely want to read more
I found the story telling immersive, I really felt like I was watching the valley, walking in the orchard. Chapters are short and I just didn’t want to stop.
It’s almost useless to comment on Abby’s Craden narration that now became familiar and comforting, while making beautiful stories sublime.
I finally dipped my toe in Gerri Hill’s world. I definitely want to read more
April 17, 2024
Madilyn Marak is a member of the richest family in the Commonwealth - and because her mother and brother have no interest in the family estate, she is the heir. She returns to the family estate after the death of her grandmother Belle to be with her grandfather.
Dylan worked in Philadelphia for many years, but after her uncle became terminally ill, she has been back on the family farm caring for him for the last six years. She also is caring for the apple orchard, started by her great aunt Lorah in the 1930s.
Maddie finds a diary hidden away in the attic at the house, written by her great grandmother Isabel, and so begins a story of investigation, of revelation, of remembrance, and of romance between Maddie and Dylan
A beautiful, complex story. Gerri Hill’s stories are some of my favourites. She can make characters and locations really come to life. Her strong points are in the descriptions, the feelings and the emotions, especially her descriptions of nature. Other authors excel in the psychological aspects of their characters; Gerri seems to transcend that with her characters. We just see them.
Dylan worked in Philadelphia for many years, but after her uncle became terminally ill, she has been back on the family farm caring for him for the last six years. She also is caring for the apple orchard, started by her great aunt Lorah in the 1930s.
Maddie finds a diary hidden away in the attic at the house, written by her great grandmother Isabel, and so begins a story of investigation, of revelation, of remembrance, and of romance between Maddie and Dylan
A beautiful, complex story. Gerri Hill’s stories are some of my favourites. She can make characters and locations really come to life. Her strong points are in the descriptions, the feelings and the emotions, especially her descriptions of nature. Other authors excel in the psychological aspects of their characters; Gerri seems to transcend that with her characters. We just see them.
December 11, 2023
(December 11, 2023) I received a copy of the audiobook from Tantor Audio via NetGalley and happy listened to The Apple Diary although I only read the book only a few weeks ago. Abby Cranden does a wonderful job with the narration of this lovely two time period story. My original review is below and I still highly recommend the book in whichever format you prefer.
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(November 26, 2023) (4.5 Stars) Gerri Hill is such a smooth and consistent writer. Most of her books are set in the west or southwest so I was surprised the story takes place in Pennsylvania’s farm and apple country. If I hadn’t already traveled in the area I could easily envision it with Hill’s beautiful descriptions. Madilyn Marak is a young (27) heiress and the story begins with her being at the family estate after the death of her grandmother. She tells her grandfather she will stay with him for several months. She finds her great-grandmother Isabel’s diary and learns of a forbidden romance in 1933. She hires Dylan Hayes (29) to bring new life to Isabel's three acre apple orchard.
The characters are surprisingly young compared to the lives they have lived. There is very much a sense of loneliness for both of them. Their friendship is easy to enjoy as is their slow burn attraction. They communicate openly and honestly with each other. The diary is short but gives the original romance depth and feeling. A few times I felt I got the same information repetitively. I think there are three times she explains her lack of relationship with her father. Or how many times do I need to hear her thoughts on her ex boyfriend? But otherwise I loved spending time with these characters. I will gladly read anything Hill writes from romances to her investigative mysteries. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
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(November 26, 2023) (4.5 Stars) Gerri Hill is such a smooth and consistent writer. Most of her books are set in the west or southwest so I was surprised the story takes place in Pennsylvania’s farm and apple country. If I hadn’t already traveled in the area I could easily envision it with Hill’s beautiful descriptions. Madilyn Marak is a young (27) heiress and the story begins with her being at the family estate after the death of her grandmother. She tells her grandfather she will stay with him for several months. She finds her great-grandmother Isabel’s diary and learns of a forbidden romance in 1933. She hires Dylan Hayes (29) to bring new life to Isabel's three acre apple orchard.
The characters are surprisingly young compared to the lives they have lived. There is very much a sense of loneliness for both of them. Their friendship is easy to enjoy as is their slow burn attraction. They communicate openly and honestly with each other. The diary is short but gives the original romance depth and feeling. A few times I felt I got the same information repetitively. I think there are three times she explains her lack of relationship with her father. Or how many times do I need to hear her thoughts on her ex boyfriend? But otherwise I loved spending time with these characters. I will gladly read anything Hill writes from romances to her investigative mysteries. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
March 3, 2025
4.5 stars
A gentle, old fashioned romance blending forbidden love in the past with a present day romance. This might sound bland but the emotions between the women involved feel very real and endearing.
I appreciated the lack of the usual makeout, break up, make up standard in too many traditional romances making The Apple Diary a refreshing palette cleanser.
Sometimes a visit with a favourite and reliable author is what a reader needs in these dire times.
A gentle, old fashioned romance blending forbidden love in the past with a present day romance. This might sound bland but the emotions between the women involved feel very real and endearing.
I appreciated the lack of the usual makeout, break up, make up standard in too many traditional romances making The Apple Diary a refreshing palette cleanser.
Sometimes a visit with a favourite and reliable author is what a reader needs in these dire times.
February 1, 2024
The Apple Diary is yet another gem from Gerri Hill, weaving a tender romance between Madilyn Marak, a woman from a wealthy background seeking purpose, and Dylan Hayes, who is at a crossroads after the loss of her last known relative. Hill's talent for creating relatable, multidimensional characters shines, making it impossible not to invest emotionally in Maddie and Dylan's journey.
Gerri Hill's narrative is a blend of meticulous detail and captivating storytelling. The diary at the heart of the story acts as a catalyst for Madilyn, prompting profound reflections and life changes. Hill's approach to unveiling the past is elegant, and I was completely captivated by the way the letters unfolded.
As with all her works, Hill delivers a narrative that's both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Her ability to intertwine the lives of her characters, both past and present, without losing the reader's engagement, is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. This book is a must-read for those who cherish a well-crafted romance with depth and sincerity.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Gerri Hill's narrative is a blend of meticulous detail and captivating storytelling. The diary at the heart of the story acts as a catalyst for Madilyn, prompting profound reflections and life changes. Hill's approach to unveiling the past is elegant, and I was completely captivated by the way the letters unfolded.
As with all her works, Hill delivers a narrative that's both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Her ability to intertwine the lives of her characters, both past and present, without losing the reader's engagement, is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. This book is a must-read for those who cherish a well-crafted romance with depth and sincerity.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2023
I listened to the audio book and it was fantastic. I love the positive messages that are in the book. Another great one by Gerri Hill.
January 28, 2024
In 'The Apple Diary,' Gerri Hill deftly weaves a captivating tapestry of romance, subtly blending the allure of the paranormal with two sweet and heartwarming love stories. Although the plot may follow familiar paths, Hill's prowess shines through as she immerses me in the intricacies of her characters' emotions, keeping me hooked on the unfolding romance. Also, the subtle incorporation of the concept of soul mates adds a delightful layer to the narrative, leaving me with a genuinely satisfying experience.
A must-read for Gerri Hill enthusiasts, 'The Apple Diary' not only delivers on the promise of a full-blown romance but also serves as a beautiful introduction to the author's compelling writing.
***My sincerest thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
A must-read for Gerri Hill enthusiasts, 'The Apple Diary' not only delivers on the promise of a full-blown romance but also serves as a beautiful introduction to the author's compelling writing.
***My sincerest thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
March 3, 2024
This has never happened to me before, but this is the first Gerri Hill book that I haven’t finished. I think it had to do with how the dual timelines were set up, by the time I got to the present timeline I just wasn’t invested in Madilyn and Dylan’s story because I knew nothing about them and what I did know about Madilyn I didn’t really like. I’m still a Gerri Hill fan for life, but this book wasn’t for me.
December 22, 2023
What a beautiful story The Apple Diary is! I've never read anything by Gerri Hill before, and I'm so glad to have discovered them!!!
This is such a romantic story. I loved the tale of Isabel and Lorah (I'd never have been able to resist reading that diary all the way through right away lol). And the way Hill weaves their story into the romance of Madilyn and Dylan is artfully done.
The audio version of The Apple Diary is performed by Abby Craden and they do a marvelous job with all these characters. A lovely tale!
an audiobook copy of The Apple Diary was provided by Tantor Audio, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
This is such a romantic story. I loved the tale of Isabel and Lorah (I'd never have been able to resist reading that diary all the way through right away lol). And the way Hill weaves their story into the romance of Madilyn and Dylan is artfully done.
The audio version of The Apple Diary is performed by Abby Craden and they do a marvelous job with all these characters. A lovely tale!
an audiobook copy of The Apple Diary was provided by Tantor Audio, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
September 22, 2024
A beautiful story and setting with two lovable main characters. There was very little conflict, but a lot of feelings are evoked While not at all a sad story, it did make me cry.
October 14, 2024
Good old Gerri Hill book. No angst, just a lovely story. And I needed that.
December 18, 2023
The liberation of Madilyn M.
There is fine dining and there is fine writing: The Apple Diary by renowned author Gerri Hill is a great example of the latter. It is a subtle exploration of 100 years of female/female love, of finding yourself and coming out then and nowadays. It is about external and internalized expectations and pressure. And first and foremost it is the story or better a celebration of great love that transcends time.
Madilyn Marak comes from a very rich family and her name is legacy and expectation at the same time: She is lonely, quiet and reserved, living in a gilded cage, trying to live up to expectations from her society conscious mother. She is living a loveless life, aiming for a loveless marriage.
With lovely, heartwarming strokes of her plume Gerri Hill brings Madilyn into our lifes: we follow her as she discovers the tragic love affair of her great-grandmother with a woman and we follow her as she discovers herself, as she discovers her passion for her great-grandmother‘s orchard and as she discovers love itself.
It is a slow journey, tender and tentative. The writing does this discovery full justice and a joy to read. I loved every minute of reading this fine book. Kudos to Gerri Hill for the superb intertwining of two timelines and two great love stories.
I received an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
There is fine dining and there is fine writing: The Apple Diary by renowned author Gerri Hill is a great example of the latter. It is a subtle exploration of 100 years of female/female love, of finding yourself and coming out then and nowadays. It is about external and internalized expectations and pressure. And first and foremost it is the story or better a celebration of great love that transcends time.
Madilyn Marak comes from a very rich family and her name is legacy and expectation at the same time: She is lonely, quiet and reserved, living in a gilded cage, trying to live up to expectations from her society conscious mother. She is living a loveless life, aiming for a loveless marriage.
With lovely, heartwarming strokes of her plume Gerri Hill brings Madilyn into our lifes: we follow her as she discovers the tragic love affair of her great-grandmother with a woman and we follow her as she discovers herself, as she discovers her passion for her great-grandmother‘s orchard and as she discovers love itself.
It is a slow journey, tender and tentative. The writing does this discovery full justice and a joy to read. I loved every minute of reading this fine book. Kudos to Gerri Hill for the superb intertwining of two timelines and two great love stories.
I received an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
December 19, 2023
A new book from Gerri Hill? Say no more. Murder mysteries? Check. Intrigue? Check. Smoking hot romances? Check. Holiday? Check. Paranormal? Check. There is no genre that she isn't a master of. And now, add Historical Romance to that list. From the cover and the premise, I never would've guess this is a Gerri Hill. But just get a few chapters in, and you know it is - there is literally no other author who can set a scene like she does. I became so immersed in the apple orchard and the old estate that I found myself visualizing it as if watching a movie in my head.
The Apple Diary is a sweet, slow-burn romance that is a joy to read.
The Apple Diary is a sweet, slow-burn romance that is a joy to read.
November 22, 2023
Madilyn, returning to the family home after her Grandmother's death, decides to help out her Grandfather and discovers a diary belongng to Isabel, her Great Grandmother's, whom had a relationship with another woman, Lorah.
Complicating the situation, her Grandfather has decided to make her his heir, bypassing her socialite Mom and brother.
As she begins fixing up the family home she meets Dylan Hayes, and begins to fall for her.
Good, solid book. The diary bits are vivid yet feel like the 1930s, and the romance between Maddy and Dylan is very sweet.
Gerri Hill is a solid, reliable writer and once again she's done a great job with this book.
Complicating the situation, her Grandfather has decided to make her his heir, bypassing her socialite Mom and brother.
As she begins fixing up the family home she meets Dylan Hayes, and begins to fall for her.
Good, solid book. The diary bits are vivid yet feel like the 1930s, and the romance between Maddy and Dylan is very sweet.
Gerri Hill is a solid, reliable writer and once again she's done a great job with this book.
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