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The Patchwork Players: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel
Not yet published
Expected 14 Apr 26The cast of a smash TV show arrives at a quilter’s retreat for week of camaraderie and creativity that takes some surprising twists in this heartwarming new installment of Jennifer Chiaverini’s much-beloved Elm Creek Quilts series.
Acclaimed TV actress Julia Merchaud almost can’t believe her good fortune. Her beloved historical drama, A Patchwork Life, revived her career and made stars of several younger actors. But Julia’s happiness turns to dismay when she learns that the hit show will have only one more season. Can she convince everyone to stay just a little longer?
Inspiration comes after a conversation with Summer Sullivan, one of the expert quilters who helped Julia prepare for her role. When Summer confides that Elm Creek Quilt Camp is in financial trouble, Julia concocts a brilliant plan that will help the Elm Creek Quilters and herself.
Julia sets about persuading the cast and crew to join her for what she promises will be a marvelous week at a luxurious nineteenth-century mansion amid the autumnal splendor of central Pennsylvania, a creative and dynamic working vacation they’ll never forget. Secretly, she hopes the bonding experience will convince them to abandon their other plans and sign on for another few seasons. But after several joyful days of quilting and camaraderie, Julia’s scheme takes an unexpected turn. Soon she’ll have to make hard choices about which matters more—career or friendship.
Acclaimed TV actress Julia Merchaud almost can’t believe her good fortune. Her beloved historical drama, A Patchwork Life, revived her career and made stars of several younger actors. But Julia’s happiness turns to dismay when she learns that the hit show will have only one more season. Can she convince everyone to stay just a little longer?
Inspiration comes after a conversation with Summer Sullivan, one of the expert quilters who helped Julia prepare for her role. When Summer confides that Elm Creek Quilt Camp is in financial trouble, Julia concocts a brilliant plan that will help the Elm Creek Quilters and herself.
Julia sets about persuading the cast and crew to join her for what she promises will be a marvelous week at a luxurious nineteenth-century mansion amid the autumnal splendor of central Pennsylvania, a creative and dynamic working vacation they’ll never forget. Secretly, she hopes the bonding experience will convince them to abandon their other plans and sign on for another few seasons. But after several joyful days of quilting and camaraderie, Julia’s scheme takes an unexpected turn. Soon she’ll have to make hard choices about which matters more—career or friendship.
- GenresFiction
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication April 14, 2026
4 people are currently reading
4178 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Chiaverini
78 books5,254 followersJennifer Chiaverini is the New York Times bestselling author of thirty-three novels, including acclaimed historical fiction and the beloved Elm Creek Quilts series. She has also written seven quilt pattern books inspired by her novels. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the University of Chicago, she lives with her husband and two sons in Madison, Wisconsin. About her historical fiction, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes, "In addition to simply being fascinating stories, these novels go a long way in capturing the texture of life for women, rich and poor, black and white, in those perilous years."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 23, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 24th book in the Elm Creek Quilters series. I've read enough of the series to have the general backstory down. I think you could read this as a stand alone book because she gives enough general information to keep readers reminded of the main characters.
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous book but I'd still recommend it if you've enjoyed any of the previous books and want to read about Quilt Camp from a visitor's perspective.
This is the 24th book in the Elm Creek Quilters series. I've read enough of the series to have the general backstory down. I think you could read this as a stand alone book because she gives enough general information to keep readers reminded of the main characters.
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the previous book but I'd still recommend it if you've enjoyed any of the previous books and want to read about Quilt Camp from a visitor's perspective.
September 24, 2025
It felt like it took forever to finish this book. It was my very first book from the series. What I enjoyed the most were the details about quilting. I found it educational and informative. I was however quite lost on what the story was about. It seemed to go on and on talking about different characters but I didn’t find that it tied together nicely. It is possible that it would have made more sense if you have read the previous books in this series. I am grateful for the ARC but won’t be reaching for these personally.
August 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I love the Elm Creek Quilt series. I’ve read them all and was excited to read this new installment. But the author almost lost me in the first few chapters as it was clunky and cumbersome. I know the author had to bring the readers unfamiliar with the Elm Creek series up to speed. I was happy I stayed with it as I enjoyed this continuation of the Elm Creek Quilts. The characters of the TV show were enjoyable and believable. Julia’s storyline from previous books like how Julia actually paid for the roof repairs, the start of the apple picking and the Cross Country Quilters answered questions from previous books.
If I wasn’t a quilter, this story weaved step by step directions for creating a quilt within the TV cast’s team building week at quilt camp. Even me, an intermediate to advanced quilter, picked up a few tips from this book. I also like how Chiaverini continued the plot line from the previous books infused into this tale. Patchwork Players is a nice addition to the Elm Creek Quilt series with bonus directions for making a quilt. Thank you NetGalley and Willam Morrow for this advanced reader's copy.
felt anxiety slipping off her shoulders as easily as removing a heavy wool coat in fair weather.
“but when change is forced upon us, we honor ourselves best by adapting and moving forward with dignity and hope.”
“In this example, the green fabric reads as dark, the pink as medium, and the white is light. The eight-pointed star is crisp and clear, easily visible.”
“You used a sharp for piecing and a tapestry needle for basting. Now I’ll introduce you to a between. They’re thicker and sturdier than sharps, which makes them perfect for hand quilting.
This is a nine between. The number indicates the size. The higher the number, the smaller the needle. I usually use a twelve, but nine is a good size for a beginner.”
prefer to use a quilter’s knot for hand quilting,” she held the end of the needle and about a half inch of the thread tail between her left thumb and forefinger. With her right hand, she wrapped the thread clockwise around the needle three times to make a coil. Then, shifting her grip, she pinched the coil and the tail end with her left thumb and forefinger, grasped the needle near the point with her right, and gently pulled the needle through the coil, continuing until the entire length of thread was pulled through and only a small, neat, firm knot remained near the end of the thread. Next, with her right hand beneath the quilt and her left steadying the hoop, Maggie pushed the needle through the backing and batting and out the top, the tip of the needle piercing one of the drawn quilting lines. Grasping the needle with her right hand and slipping the left beneath the hoop, she pulled the thread all the way through, and then gave the thread a careful tug to pop the knot through the back and into the batting, guiding it along with her left hand.
“I’m right-handed, so I’ll put my thimble on the first finger of my right hand and put my left hand underneath the quilt.” First, using the finger protected by the thimble, she pushed the needle through the top of the quilt. When the tip of the needle touched her left forefinger on the other side, she pushed the tip of the needle back through the layers to the top. By rocking her right hand back and forth in this manner, she gathered a few stitches on her needle.
Then she pulled the needle and the length of thread all the way through to the top, leaving behind four small running stitches in a straight row along the penciled quilting design.
“Mine are straight and even, but they’re huge,” said Paige. Sylvia bent over for a closer look. “Oh, yes. My great-aunt would have called those ‘toenail catchers,’
“My mom uses a metal thimble for her needle-wielding hand and a leather thimble for the one beneath the quilt,”
If I wasn’t a quilter, this story weaved step by step directions for creating a quilt within the TV cast’s team building week at quilt camp. Even me, an intermediate to advanced quilter, picked up a few tips from this book. I also like how Chiaverini continued the plot line from the previous books infused into this tale. Patchwork Players is a nice addition to the Elm Creek Quilt series with bonus directions for making a quilt. Thank you NetGalley and Willam Morrow for this advanced reader's copy.
felt anxiety slipping off her shoulders as easily as removing a heavy wool coat in fair weather.
“but when change is forced upon us, we honor ourselves best by adapting and moving forward with dignity and hope.”
“In this example, the green fabric reads as dark, the pink as medium, and the white is light. The eight-pointed star is crisp and clear, easily visible.”
“You used a sharp for piecing and a tapestry needle for basting. Now I’ll introduce you to a between. They’re thicker and sturdier than sharps, which makes them perfect for hand quilting.
This is a nine between. The number indicates the size. The higher the number, the smaller the needle. I usually use a twelve, but nine is a good size for a beginner.”
prefer to use a quilter’s knot for hand quilting,” she held the end of the needle and about a half inch of the thread tail between her left thumb and forefinger. With her right hand, she wrapped the thread clockwise around the needle three times to make a coil. Then, shifting her grip, she pinched the coil and the tail end with her left thumb and forefinger, grasped the needle near the point with her right, and gently pulled the needle through the coil, continuing until the entire length of thread was pulled through and only a small, neat, firm knot remained near the end of the thread. Next, with her right hand beneath the quilt and her left steadying the hoop, Maggie pushed the needle through the backing and batting and out the top, the tip of the needle piercing one of the drawn quilting lines. Grasping the needle with her right hand and slipping the left beneath the hoop, she pulled the thread all the way through, and then gave the thread a careful tug to pop the knot through the back and into the batting, guiding it along with her left hand.
“I’m right-handed, so I’ll put my thimble on the first finger of my right hand and put my left hand underneath the quilt.” First, using the finger protected by the thimble, she pushed the needle through the top of the quilt. When the tip of the needle touched her left forefinger on the other side, she pushed the tip of the needle back through the layers to the top. By rocking her right hand back and forth in this manner, she gathered a few stitches on her needle.
Then she pulled the needle and the length of thread all the way through to the top, leaving behind four small running stitches in a straight row along the penciled quilting design.
“Mine are straight and even, but they’re huge,” said Paige. Sylvia bent over for a closer look. “Oh, yes. My great-aunt would have called those ‘toenail catchers,’
“My mom uses a metal thimble for her needle-wielding hand and a leather thimble for the one beneath the quilt,”
August 20, 2025
I recently finished "The Patchwork Players," the latest installment in the Elm Creek Quilters series. Having enjoyed many of the books in this series since 2013, I approached it with familiar enthusiasm. However, I found myself struggling to connect with the story in the way I have in the past. While I appreciate the author's skillful character development—the familiar faces from previous books added a certain comfort—I’m thinking that maybe my reading preferences have changed? My current tastes lean heavily towards mystery and thriller genres, leading me to conclude that this particular series no longer fully aligns with what I seek in a book?
The writing itself was undoubtedly well-crafted, and I recognize the author’s considerable talent in creating a beloved group of characters and sustaining their appeal across numerous novels.
Yet, I've decided to remove the remaining Elm Creek Quilters books from my to-be-read list.
My honesty isn't meant to diminish the author's considerable achievement or the enduring popularity of this series.
September 1, 2025
These books are just a comfort read for me at this point. It’s like settling in with old friends. Love how they keep incorporating new characters into their midst. Elm Creek Quilts camp opens its doors for a special autumn edition at the request of a famous past camper. The cast of a popular TV show needs quilting lessons to make the show authentic and Sylvia and Sarah agree to host. There is, of course, some drama when the star who doesn’t want the series to end tries to convince other cast mates to stay by helping them to fall in love with quilting. Needless to say not everything goes as planned. This was a delightful installation into this beloved series. Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC.
August 23, 2025
A camp for quilting is so cool. Sometimes I wish I knew how to quilt because I would be there. Julia Merchaud is a famous actress who is one of the stars in A Patchwork Life. She finds out season six is the last for her beloved tv show. This book reminded me of a train wreck. You can’t put it down because you want to know what’s going to happen. You have to either admire Julia for what she tries or annoyed because she’s self-centered and selfish. There was a lot of reminiscing of when Julia went to quilt camp the first time. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.
October 27, 2025
My thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for an advance copy of this novel that tells a story about the power of crafting, the need for people to feel meaning in their life, and how one person can touch so many, in good and bad ways, and what we take from these experiences.
In the last few years I know quite a few people whose lives have been changed from the simple art of starting a craft project. One in particular had her life saved in the fact that she always planned to do something final, but didn't want to leave a sewing project unfinished. By the time she completed it, she felt a need to start another, and keep going. Something about crafting does something to people, lets them step away from life, lets the create something from where there was nothing, something that might bring joy to others, and more importantly to oneself. Crafting also shows us humans something we have a hard time accepting or admitting too. People make mistakes. People hate to make mistakes, as our current political climate shows. In crafting though, that is how one learns. One can get mad and walk away, one can start over, or one can accept it and move on, leaving the mistake as a reminder that we are only human. And humans are complicated as shown in this wonderful novel. The Patchwork Players by Jennifer Chiaverini is another entry in the Elm Creek Quilts series and continues the story of crafting club, with the addition of a little Hollywood glitz, a lot of familiar characters, and of course lots of writing about quilts.
Julia Merchaud has been an actress for quite a while, and is currently at the top of her game. The show she is a part of A Patchwork Life, is a streaming hit, a historical drama with quilts as the subject matter, something that Julia has come to enjoy. Being streaming though there is a lot of talk about the show being canceled at the end of the season, with many of the actors, mostly young with plans for other roles leaving. Julia is worried as she loves the show, and fears at her certain age finding more roles as rewarding, or even any roles. A chance conversation with one of the advisors on the show about quilting, Summer Sullivan, gives Julia an idea. Sulllivan confess that the Elm Creek Quilt camp is having financial problems. Julia wonders if having the cast and writers gather together for a week at a scenic spot might make them more determined to keep the show going, and give an infusion of cash to the Quilt Camp. Things seem to be going well, but the past gets in the way, and soon Julia has to decide what is more important, people around her, or keeping the dream of her television show alive.
This is the latest entry in Chiaverini Elm Creek Quilt series. One does not have to have read the other books in the series to understand what is going on, Chiaverini does a good job of keeping everyone in the loop. This is a sequel to an earlier books and some storylines carry over, but again this is not a problem. Chiaverini is a very good writer, with characters that are interesting and facing conflicts that seem real, and believable. The story is good and has a clear narrative, and is a perfect way to relax after well dealing with the world. Plus for the quilter there is much information on patches, colors, and design styles. Chiaverini makes all of this worth knowing and it really is a wonder to watch Chiaverini make quilting so important to the story.
Again one doesn't have to have read the earlier books, but it does help, and they are also as fun to read. Chiaverini has a very nice style, and again these are the perfect books to relax with after a rough day of being human today. Perfect for fans, and also a good start for new readers.
In the last few years I know quite a few people whose lives have been changed from the simple art of starting a craft project. One in particular had her life saved in the fact that she always planned to do something final, but didn't want to leave a sewing project unfinished. By the time she completed it, she felt a need to start another, and keep going. Something about crafting does something to people, lets them step away from life, lets the create something from where there was nothing, something that might bring joy to others, and more importantly to oneself. Crafting also shows us humans something we have a hard time accepting or admitting too. People make mistakes. People hate to make mistakes, as our current political climate shows. In crafting though, that is how one learns. One can get mad and walk away, one can start over, or one can accept it and move on, leaving the mistake as a reminder that we are only human. And humans are complicated as shown in this wonderful novel. The Patchwork Players by Jennifer Chiaverini is another entry in the Elm Creek Quilts series and continues the story of crafting club, with the addition of a little Hollywood glitz, a lot of familiar characters, and of course lots of writing about quilts.
Julia Merchaud has been an actress for quite a while, and is currently at the top of her game. The show she is a part of A Patchwork Life, is a streaming hit, a historical drama with quilts as the subject matter, something that Julia has come to enjoy. Being streaming though there is a lot of talk about the show being canceled at the end of the season, with many of the actors, mostly young with plans for other roles leaving. Julia is worried as she loves the show, and fears at her certain age finding more roles as rewarding, or even any roles. A chance conversation with one of the advisors on the show about quilting, Summer Sullivan, gives Julia an idea. Sulllivan confess that the Elm Creek Quilt camp is having financial problems. Julia wonders if having the cast and writers gather together for a week at a scenic spot might make them more determined to keep the show going, and give an infusion of cash to the Quilt Camp. Things seem to be going well, but the past gets in the way, and soon Julia has to decide what is more important, people around her, or keeping the dream of her television show alive.
This is the latest entry in Chiaverini Elm Creek Quilt series. One does not have to have read the other books in the series to understand what is going on, Chiaverini does a good job of keeping everyone in the loop. This is a sequel to an earlier books and some storylines carry over, but again this is not a problem. Chiaverini is a very good writer, with characters that are interesting and facing conflicts that seem real, and believable. The story is good and has a clear narrative, and is a perfect way to relax after well dealing with the world. Plus for the quilter there is much information on patches, colors, and design styles. Chiaverini makes all of this worth knowing and it really is a wonder to watch Chiaverini make quilting so important to the story.
Again one doesn't have to have read the earlier books, but it does help, and they are also as fun to read. Chiaverini has a very nice style, and again these are the perfect books to relax with after a rough day of being human today. Perfect for fans, and also a good start for new readers.
September 7, 2025
*This book was received as an Advanced Reviewer's Copy from NetGalley.
I've read almost all of the Elm Creek Quilt novels over a period of years. The last three (including this one), just in the last month. And I'm not sure if it's just me or that something has changed, but they just don't hold the sparkle that they used to for me.
The series themselves follows a group of quilters and the quilt retreat that they have created. Each book sees a character struggle with an individual problem or maybe all of them are coming together to solve an issue. In this one, it's one of the campers that visits who also is a famous movie/tv star. She works for a quilting tv series (of course) and is desperately trying to how her cast together so she proposes that they all go on this quilt retreat to make the show more authentic. Mayhem occurs as her intentions may be good but not executed well.
This one spent so much time on the movie setting and cast, that by the time we got to the quilting I was already kind of out of it. And then the quilting mentioned very basic stuff, which while helpful, if you've been with this series for 24 books I'm going to gather that you're probably not a beginning quilter. While it could be read as a stand-alone (especially give that some of the text was almost lifted straight from previous books - having just read them I recognized it), I'm not sure anyone would just dive into this one for their first book. And that's not to say that all I have to write is just complaints, there are several good points to this book. I love the concept of the quilt camp itself, the comradery the whole crew has, and the attention to detail that Chiaverini writes in her books. She's developed a warm, cozy setting that is always nice to return to. I just feel like her interests have more moved on from quilting to history and other topics and it shows in the focus of the books.
While I yearn for the Elm Creek Quilt books of old, this is still a solid book and I think anyone who has enjoyed the genre before will probably enjoy it.
Review by M. Reynard 2025
I've read almost all of the Elm Creek Quilt novels over a period of years. The last three (including this one), just in the last month. And I'm not sure if it's just me or that something has changed, but they just don't hold the sparkle that they used to for me.
The series themselves follows a group of quilters and the quilt retreat that they have created. Each book sees a character struggle with an individual problem or maybe all of them are coming together to solve an issue. In this one, it's one of the campers that visits who also is a famous movie/tv star. She works for a quilting tv series (of course) and is desperately trying to how her cast together so she proposes that they all go on this quilt retreat to make the show more authentic. Mayhem occurs as her intentions may be good but not executed well.
This one spent so much time on the movie setting and cast, that by the time we got to the quilting I was already kind of out of it. And then the quilting mentioned very basic stuff, which while helpful, if you've been with this series for 24 books I'm going to gather that you're probably not a beginning quilter. While it could be read as a stand-alone (especially give that some of the text was almost lifted straight from previous books - having just read them I recognized it), I'm not sure anyone would just dive into this one for their first book. And that's not to say that all I have to write is just complaints, there are several good points to this book. I love the concept of the quilt camp itself, the comradery the whole crew has, and the attention to detail that Chiaverini writes in her books. She's developed a warm, cozy setting that is always nice to return to. I just feel like her interests have more moved on from quilting to history and other topics and it shows in the focus of the books.
While I yearn for the Elm Creek Quilt books of old, this is still a solid book and I think anyone who has enjoyed the genre before will probably enjoy it.
Review by M. Reynard 2025
August 13, 2025
This is volume 24 in the Elm Creek Quilt Camp series. Readers are introduced to the well-known television actress Julia Merchaud. She is ecstatic about landing a great part in the TV show A Patchwork Life. Julia would have to be able to quilt using the methods of the time in order to qualify for this role. So, she needed a crash course.
Julia’s agent didn't provide her with the resources needed to learn with the rest of the class, so she struggled at first. As a quilter, I was fascinated to learn how women created quilts in the past. The fact that readers joined Julia at Elm Creek Quilt Camp delighted me.
The TV show's behind-the-scenes drama piqued my interest because I have experience working in theater and films. I was unable to put this intriguing, humorous, and unique story down. Although this is the first book by the author that I have read, it will not be my last. Discussing this book with your book group will be enjoyable.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
Julia’s agent didn't provide her with the resources needed to learn with the rest of the class, so she struggled at first. As a quilter, I was fascinated to learn how women created quilts in the past. The fact that readers joined Julia at Elm Creek Quilt Camp delighted me.
The TV show's behind-the-scenes drama piqued my interest because I have experience working in theater and films. I was unable to put this intriguing, humorous, and unique story down. Although this is the first book by the author that I have read, it will not be my last. Discussing this book with your book group will be enjoyable.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
August 31, 2025
A new Elm Creek Quilts book by Jennifer Chiaverini ... Yes Please!
It seems that not long ago I read The World's Fair Quilt (#23). The Patchwork Players (#24) closely follows and partially overlaps part of The World's Fair Quilt, just from another angle.
I'm trying to decide if #24 would be better if you had read #23 first. Probably. Essential, probably not.
So Patchwork Players has Julia as the central character. They are about to film season 6 of the television series she is the lead and co-directs ... and she finds out that it is likely the last season. Her heart is crushed as she loves the series with her whole soul. She also finds out that the organization where she learned how to quilt is in desperate need of a new roof.
The book is good. Especially (I'm guessing) if you are a quilter. So many quilting sequences are described (that honestly went over my head ... but didn't bother me). Is it the best book ever? Wasn't for me. Between 3 and 4 stars, but rounding to 4. Maybe it had too much overlap to #23 for me???
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author Jennifer Chiaverini and William Morrow publishing for approving my request to read the advance read copy of Patchwork Players in exchange for an honest review. Approx 304 pages. Estimated release is April 2026.
It seems that not long ago I read The World's Fair Quilt (#23). The Patchwork Players (#24) closely follows and partially overlaps part of The World's Fair Quilt, just from another angle.
I'm trying to decide if #24 would be better if you had read #23 first. Probably. Essential, probably not.
So Patchwork Players has Julia as the central character. They are about to film season 6 of the television series she is the lead and co-directs ... and she finds out that it is likely the last season. Her heart is crushed as she loves the series with her whole soul. She also finds out that the organization where she learned how to quilt is in desperate need of a new roof.
The book is good. Especially (I'm guessing) if you are a quilter. So many quilting sequences are described (that honestly went over my head ... but didn't bother me). Is it the best book ever? Wasn't for me. Between 3 and 4 stars, but rounding to 4. Maybe it had too much overlap to #23 for me???
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author Jennifer Chiaverini and William Morrow publishing for approving my request to read the advance read copy of Patchwork Players in exchange for an honest review. Approx 304 pages. Estimated release is April 2026.
September 2, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“The Patchwork Players” is part of the “Elm Creek Quilts” series by Jennifer Chiaverini. This book can be read as a stand-alone as Ms. Chiaverini does a good job catching the reader up on things that happened before this book. I believe that Ms. Chiaverini did a good job explaining the quilting (both creating quilts and some quilt history). However, I wasn’t as thrilled by the actions of the main character, Julia. While Julia hopes that the popular TV program she’s on will be renewed, she acts extremely selfishly in trying to get her way. My other comment is that there were a number of minor characters ranging from the people at the quilting camp, to Julia’s coworkers, to Julia’s friends that, honestly, I had to cherry pick whose background information I wanted to retain. I’m sure that if this hadn’t been my first book in the series, I would’ve picked up things more quickly and knew backstories, but at times I felt a bit lost. Do I think this was a good book? I don’t know - it was a good idea and maybe it’s a good book in the series. I found the quilting information interesting - but quilting isn’t really my thing and at times it got a bit too detailed for general appreciation. 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
“The Patchwork Players” is part of the “Elm Creek Quilts” series by Jennifer Chiaverini. This book can be read as a stand-alone as Ms. Chiaverini does a good job catching the reader up on things that happened before this book. I believe that Ms. Chiaverini did a good job explaining the quilting (both creating quilts and some quilt history). However, I wasn’t as thrilled by the actions of the main character, Julia. While Julia hopes that the popular TV program she’s on will be renewed, she acts extremely selfishly in trying to get her way. My other comment is that there were a number of minor characters ranging from the people at the quilting camp, to Julia’s coworkers, to Julia’s friends that, honestly, I had to cherry pick whose background information I wanted to retain. I’m sure that if this hadn’t been my first book in the series, I would’ve picked up things more quickly and knew backstories, but at times I felt a bit lost. Do I think this was a good book? I don’t know - it was a good idea and maybe it’s a good book in the series. I found the quilting information interesting - but quilting isn’t really my thing and at times it got a bit too detailed for general appreciation. 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
August 11, 2025
I adore the Elm Creek Quilt series and was excited to read and review its latest addition: “The Patchwork Players.”
Julia Merchaud sought assistance from the Elm Creek Quilters before to help prepare for her role on “A Patchwork Life.” However, now Elm Creek Quilters is struggling and Julia might be the one to offer an idea that will both bring money to the quilting retreat as well as extend the lifeline of Julia’s TV show.
We spend a lot of time with Summer Sullivan whose career took a detour in “The Museum of Lost Quilters.” I had to keep recalling what happened in early installments to place where this timeline of this novel would fall. I imagine Jennifer Chiaverini knows these characters so intimately that she can write them in her sleep. Fans of the Elm Creek series will relish this novel; reading it is like spending time with good friends. Newer readers might feel a bit confused about what’s going on
I am excited this book exists but not sure there is a big market for this book outside avid ECQ readers. Still, it’s a quick and fun read.
Three out of five stars.
Thanks to Net Galley, the author and publisher for a chance to read and review this novel.
Julia Merchaud sought assistance from the Elm Creek Quilters before to help prepare for her role on “A Patchwork Life.” However, now Elm Creek Quilters is struggling and Julia might be the one to offer an idea that will both bring money to the quilting retreat as well as extend the lifeline of Julia’s TV show.
We spend a lot of time with Summer Sullivan whose career took a detour in “The Museum of Lost Quilters.” I had to keep recalling what happened in early installments to place where this timeline of this novel would fall. I imagine Jennifer Chiaverini knows these characters so intimately that she can write them in her sleep. Fans of the Elm Creek series will relish this novel; reading it is like spending time with good friends. Newer readers might feel a bit confused about what’s going on
I am excited this book exists but not sure there is a big market for this book outside avid ECQ readers. Still, it’s a quick and fun read.
Three out of five stars.
Thanks to Net Galley, the author and publisher for a chance to read and review this novel.
September 16, 2025
If you have read any of the Elm Creek Quilts novels, you have met Julia. Julia the actress. Well now you have her story! In a previous book of the series, we know that she brought her screen co-stars for a quilting camp. Well now we get to go behind the scenes of the story and learn all about the stars and Julia and her reconnection with quilting and learning how to let go.
I always love going back to Elm Creek. I appreciated that this book gave us Julia's whole connection with Elm Creek Quilts through a series of...well kind of flashbacks. SO you could definitely read this as a stand alone.
I felt like there wasn't as much emphasis on the...well like the quilt designs and history like some of the others. But that was okay.
Topics: There is a LGBQ character in Alastair, but it's background topic and not a focus.
It was fun to read some Hollywood nods here and there.
4 stars
*THank you to NetGAlley and the publishers for an ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
I always love going back to Elm Creek. I appreciated that this book gave us Julia's whole connection with Elm Creek Quilts through a series of...well kind of flashbacks. SO you could definitely read this as a stand alone.
I felt like there wasn't as much emphasis on the...well like the quilt designs and history like some of the others. But that was okay.
Topics: There is a LGBQ character in Alastair, but it's background topic and not a focus.
It was fun to read some Hollywood nods here and there.
4 stars
*THank you to NetGAlley and the publishers for an ARC of this book. All opinions are 100% my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
THE PATCHWORK PLAYERS by Jennifer Chiaverini
It was such a delight to revisit Elm Creek, off season in the fall, learning quilting and savoring wonderful meals, vicariously.
I was caught up in the drama, as the intrepid quilters worked to mend finances (a new roof) and manage show business troubles for Julia. I was with Julia all the way on this one. It’s hard to think about a good thing coming to an end, and I applauded her efforts to keep her show family together. I kept thinking of the end of my first year of teaching, when my sweet students had to gently explain that summer break was a good thing and that I’d be okay without them . . . and they were right.
As for accidentally saying the wrong thing at the wrong time, who among hasn’t? The test of character is how sincerely one tries to make amends. Life lessons abound here, loyalty, allies, persistence, and it’s so much fun to read that I didn’t want it to end.
Coming out in April, so there’s time to read some of the earlier books in the series while waiting.
It was such a delight to revisit Elm Creek, off season in the fall, learning quilting and savoring wonderful meals, vicariously.
I was caught up in the drama, as the intrepid quilters worked to mend finances (a new roof) and manage show business troubles for Julia. I was with Julia all the way on this one. It’s hard to think about a good thing coming to an end, and I applauded her efforts to keep her show family together. I kept thinking of the end of my first year of teaching, when my sweet students had to gently explain that summer break was a good thing and that I’d be okay without them . . . and they were right.
As for accidentally saying the wrong thing at the wrong time, who among hasn’t? The test of character is how sincerely one tries to make amends. Life lessons abound here, loyalty, allies, persistence, and it’s so much fun to read that I didn’t want it to end.
Coming out in April, so there’s time to read some of the earlier books in the series while waiting.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a longtime fan of this series, I was thrilled to receive an early copy. Unfortunately, this installment didn’t quite capture what I’ve come to love most—strong character growth. Much of the story lingered in extended backstory for Sadie, the character Julia portrays on her TV series, along with very detailed, step-by-step quilting instructions that slowed the pacing considerably. I found myself skimming much of the second half as a result. Additionally, Julia’s selfishness and denial surrounding the cancellation of her show were especially pronounced, particularly in her attempts to “change the minds” of coworkers who had already moved on to new opportunities. While there were moments I enjoyed, this book ultimately felt less engaging and less emotionally rich than others in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Patchwork Players is a gentle, comforting read that leans heavily into community, creativity, and long-standing friendships. It has that cozy, nostalgic feel and I really enjoyed the emphasis on shared traditions and the connections formed through quilting.
This was my first Elm Creek Quilts book, and while I appreciated the warmth and sense of belonging, I did find the pacing to be on the slower side. The story felt more reflective than plot-driven, which made it more of a “read for the vibes” kind of book for me. I found myself wanting a bit more momentum to stay fully engaged.
Overall, this is a calm, low-stakes, cozy read that I think longtime fans of the series will especially enjoy. It didn’t quite wow me, but I’m glad I gave it a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Elm Creek Quilts book, and while I appreciated the warmth and sense of belonging, I did find the pacing to be on the slower side. The story felt more reflective than plot-driven, which made it more of a “read for the vibes” kind of book for me. I found myself wanting a bit more momentum to stay fully engaged.
Overall, this is a calm, low-stakes, cozy read that I think longtime fans of the series will especially enjoy. It didn’t quite wow me, but I’m glad I gave it a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2025
I read an ARC. Innovative plot. Multi generational characters. An interesting addition to the Elm Creek Quilt Series, very contemporary and well done. Easily flows from previous novels. Great description of setting. Glad to read it and recommend it to fans of this series. The protagonist grows exponentially and is a true problem solver with a can-do attitude. At one point I thought during class maybe there was just a tad too much “how-to” detail. It was interesting to review the various quilt blocks the main character was working on. The antagonist Stephen D. was certainly believable. His creative “movie producer” decisions were outrageous. I loved how his Mom put him in his place at the end.
I thought this was a good sequel after reading the Museum of List Quilts.
I thought this was a good sequel after reading the Museum of List Quilts.
November 8, 2025
I loved being back at Elm Creek Quilts, and with the re-curing characters that I have come to love.
This is not the usual summer camp, we are here in November. Why? Because Julia wants her friends to have a change of heart.
When things go awry, I loved all Julia does, to help what she has messed up. I also love the heart she has for Elm Creek, and how she goes about helping so Sylvia will accept, she knows she wouldn't take a handout.
A reminder here of what I love about the manor, and because I'm a quilter, talking about the things I love to do. I did chuckle about the pizza cutters.
Now I can't wait for book 25 in this wonderful series!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher William Morrow, and was not required to give a positive review.
This is not the usual summer camp, we are here in November. Why? Because Julia wants her friends to have a change of heart.
When things go awry, I loved all Julia does, to help what she has messed up. I also love the heart she has for Elm Creek, and how she goes about helping so Sylvia will accept, she knows she wouldn't take a handout.
A reminder here of what I love about the manor, and because I'm a quilter, talking about the things I love to do. I did chuckle about the pizza cutters.
Now I can't wait for book 25 in this wonderful series!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher William Morrow, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 19, 2025
This book is ideal for those of us who have spent many hours at Elm Creek Quilt Camp through the words of Jennifer Chiaverini. It was a welcome relief from my busy days to return to camp. The story is in keeping with Jennifer's style. If you've read the previous books about the camp, you will remember the scenes and the camp staff. If you are new to quilting or want to try your hand at it, this is a good book to read. As the characters learn how to quilt, the reader is given very specific direction as well. I found myself skipping these excellent directions. The story is enjoyable to read and comes to an expected end.
August 25, 2025
Thank you very much to the publisher, William Morrow Books and to NetGalley for sending me the ARC of this novel. This author has written a lot of novels, and I read one of her historical fiction novels in the past, so I was intrigued by this one. I didn't realize that there were already lots of books in this quilting series. A quilter will love these books. I'm not, and therefore I was quite bored with all of the detail about quilting. I also found the lead character to be insufferable. Therefore, I really did not enjoy this book at all...I couldn't wait to finish it. Great cover. Nice premise. But not a book that I would recommend to anyone unless they were quilters.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story was good but seemed to be far removed from past books in the series. As I began reading I wondered how the cast of the show was going to connect with Elm Creek Quilters. I enjoyed the time when the cast was at the quilt retreat but there was way too much specific detail in how to quilt. It took up a lot of space and words and I found myself skipping over most of it. I am willing to give the next book in this series a try, assuming there will be a next book. I received a copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2025
Actively disliked this one for many reasons.
#1 Factual errors - (most glaring but sadly not the only problematic error, referring to FRANCES PERKINS as Florence Perkins) - were a huge turnoff. Not to mention the lack of actual story and repetitive expository "telling" grated. I've read every single one of the books in this series and am convinced it needs to stop before all dignity is lost.
Received an ARC and am hoping some things can be cleaned up with editing.
#1 Factual errors - (most glaring but sadly not the only problematic error, referring to FRANCES PERKINS as Florence Perkins) - were a huge turnoff. Not to mention the lack of actual story and repetitive expository "telling" grated. I've read every single one of the books in this series and am convinced it needs to stop before all dignity is lost.
Received an ARC and am hoping some things can be cleaned up with editing.
October 7, 2025
A trip back to the Elm Creek Quilt retreat was just what I needed. You can just relax and enjoy the grounds as the characters walk around, enter the rooms, have a great meal, visit with each other and make lasting connections. You can feel Julia having a hard time coming to grips with the end of their journey together, but she doesn't know how badly this can impact someone else. This was such a great read about people and their connections with each other.
August 9, 2025
This was a cute and good read. I love the story of found friends and family with the promise of a quilting class. What a sweet story about a women who was in a show that she is being told will be done. Not wanting to face that ending on her beloved show. She sets to work to keep the show going. I really enjoyed this show.
September 26, 2025
The Patchwork Players seemed to have a slow start as I started in but gradually gained momentum. Elm Creek Quilters were infused into this visit which added to the warmth of this trip of discovery. Showing a series group that endings can give you new life beginnings if you give it a chance. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own, thank you Netgalley for the introduction.
October 6, 2025
I found it a little hard to relate to Julia. Maybe I'm not quite at a place in my life where I don't want to relinquish something I have that would be beneficial to others involved, but I found her quite hard to deal with. I liked the actors coming together at quilt camp, and learned a bit more about quilting (still don't have the hand strength to do, I will stick with crocheting!)
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I really enjoyed reading this book, it is the first one that I have read in this series but it can be read as a stand alone book. I enjoyed the story line and getting to know the characters. I plan to read more of the books in this series. I received my copy through Goodreads first reads in exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2025
Loved this book, but also enjoyed how there is always a lesson to be learned! This was like returning to Home. Many of the same family we all love and know. But added new who you'll get to know. We can't always control what happens. even if we try!
August 14, 2025
If you are an Elm Creek Quilter fan, you may want to read this, but it was not as well done as previous ones. There were, however, some good quilting tips. Thanks for NetGalley for an arc with no pressure for a positive review.
August 14, 2025
Julie is multi layered - simultaneously selfish and generous. And I love novels where I learn new things. Had fun looking up all the quilt patterns mentioned. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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