Open to the Skies

by Jane Spavold Tims

Sadie, a weaver and writer, and Tom, a retired welder, become interested in purchasing an old, soon-to-be deconsecrated, church. The building fits into their plans to create a writer's retreat on their property in rural New Brunswick, part of their larger plan to give Sadie a future, since Tom is dying of welder’s lung. To acquire the church and move it to their own property, Sadie and Tom must understand the mythology surrounding the church and face antagonism every step of the way. Their plans raise the hackles of neighbours, including a spiteful claimant to the church land. As Sadie and Tom work to win over the community, fire becomes a recurring threat. Sadie learns that churches are not only stained-glass windows and candlesticks, but places of community memories, stories and deeply held secrets, including the mystery of a blue toy truck and the identity of a young boy who shows up whenever drama unfolds.

273 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2025

Reviews

[Cody Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was absolutely delightful. Jane does a great job of making all of the characters have their own voice and making them believable. I look forward to seeing what comes next for Sadie and Tom.