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Tree of Life #1
The Inn at Hidden Run
Meri's family has been producing doctors for so many generations that no one remembers why, so when she flunks out of medical school, she runs as far from her parents as she can get. In the small mountain town of Canyon Mines, Colorado, she takes a job at the Inn at Hidden Run B
391 pages, Library Binding
First published May 1, 2019
91 people are currently reading
3403 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Newport
58 books625 followersHello!
I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.
We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.
Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.
I’ve been married over 40 years and have two adult kids and a son-in-law. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)
Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.
I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.
We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us.
Here the adventure begins. When we meet someone new, we never know where it might lead.
I’ve been married over 40 years and have two adult kids and a son-in-law. We live in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where the day lilies in my back yard grow as tall as I am. (No short jokes, please.)
Not every piece of my life is pretty, though. Some days I want to throw out whole chunks. But I am living each day looking for the grace of God to me, in me, and through me. Having your companionship along the way will help uncover a lot of great stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
June 11, 2019
3.5
Giving an interesting, unique twist to the types of mysteries I typically read, The Inn at Hidden Run by Olivia Newport focuses heavily on genealogy to reveal the truth.
Failing to meet her family’s expectations, Meri Davies flees to the Inn at Hidden Run B&B in Canyon Mines, Colorado. Here, she encounters genealogist Jillian Parisi-Duffy and her father, lawyer Nolan Duffy. The pair determines to dig into Meri’s family history, as a second layer of the story—a peek into the 1870s yellow fever epidemic—complements their work in an intriguing way.
Throughout The Inn at Hidden Run, the past speaks to the present, and it fascinated me. While the character interactions didn’t always feel believable to me, I did enjoy seeing their overall story unfold and look forward to reading more of this series.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Giving an interesting, unique twist to the types of mysteries I typically read, The Inn at Hidden Run by Olivia Newport focuses heavily on genealogy to reveal the truth.
Failing to meet her family’s expectations, Meri Davies flees to the Inn at Hidden Run B&B in Canyon Mines, Colorado. Here, she encounters genealogist Jillian Parisi-Duffy and her father, lawyer Nolan Duffy. The pair determines to dig into Meri’s family history, as a second layer of the story—a peek into the 1870s yellow fever epidemic—complements their work in an intriguing way.
Throughout The Inn at Hidden Run, the past speaks to the present, and it fascinated me. While the character interactions didn’t always feel believable to me, I did enjoy seeing their overall story unfold and look forward to reading more of this series.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
May 6, 2019
I've read many books by this author. This is the start of a new series called Tree of Life. It takes place in a split time frame, modern day Colorado and 1870's Memphis. Fascinating story, some of the historical scenes are based on true happenings.
The historical part of the story takes place in Memphis during the Yellow Fever epidemic of the late nineteenth century. Memphis at this time was a tragic place to be with so many dying of the fever and children becoming orphaned . Most went to the asylum and were taken care of selflessly by the nuns who put their own lives on the line, some becoming sick as well taking care of these children.
You will enjoy the modern story telling just as much as Newport magically brings the two stories together seamlessly at the end.
Very enjoyable plot. I enjoyed reading this book.
Pub Date 01 May 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
The historical part of the story takes place in Memphis during the Yellow Fever epidemic of the late nineteenth century. Memphis at this time was a tragic place to be with so many dying of the fever and children becoming orphaned . Most went to the asylum and were taken care of selflessly by the nuns who put their own lives on the line, some becoming sick as well taking care of these children.
You will enjoy the modern story telling just as much as Newport magically brings the two stories together seamlessly at the end.
Very enjoyable plot. I enjoyed reading this book.
Pub Date 01 May 2019
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 19, 2020
"Always happy to share my wisdom that the work will always be there later, but the moment is only here now."
The Inn at Hidden Run is the first book in The Tree of Life series by Olivia Newport. This novel takes place in a split time frame - present day Canyon Mines, Colorado and 1878 Memphis. Both storylines were engaging and it was interesting to see how the two came together.
A father-daughter genealogy team link present to past on family trees.
Nolan Duffy, family law attorney and legal mediator, and Jillian Parisi-Duffy, his daughter, live in an old Victorian home in a picturesque small mountain town.
When Meri Davies arrives in town and starts working at The Inn at Hidden Run Bed-and-Breakfast, owned by Nia and Leo Dunston, she seems very nervous and distracted. It isn't long before Jillian and her father try to "take her under their wings" and befriend her. What is Meri hiding? Why does she seem like she might run away?
Some of the historical scenes are based on true happenings. The historical part of the story takes place in Memphis during the Yellow Fever epidemic of the late nineteenth century. I was very interested in the story of Eliza Davies and admired the loving way she unselfishly devoted herself to helping the Sisters care for the poor, sick and dying people and orphans.
"Officially the city was still under quarantine. Surely the Board of Health had some sort of plan for handling the cases that had erupted so far. The papers were vague about opinions of members of the Board of Health. Memphis physicians did not seem to be of uniform mind about the threat of yellow fever, nor appropriate treatment, but surely someone in charge would know how to dispatch help."
The main characters in both timelines were well developed with strong personalities. I like the easy give-and-take relationship between Jillian and her father.
I want to return to the friendly little Colorado mountain town of Canyon Mines to explore and celebrate more unforgettable family stories. 3.5 rounded up
"May you always find nourishment for your body at the table. May sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way." - Irish blessing
***Thanks to author Olivia Newport, Shiloh Run Press, Barbour Publishing, and NetGalley for a digital ARC of The Inn at Hidden Run #1 in the series Tree of Life in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
#TheInnAtHiddenRun
#NetGalley
Posted on GoodReads, NetGalley, Savvy Reader, Twitter
The Inn at Hidden Run is the first book in The Tree of Life series by Olivia Newport. This novel takes place in a split time frame - present day Canyon Mines, Colorado and 1878 Memphis. Both storylines were engaging and it was interesting to see how the two came together.
A father-daughter genealogy team link present to past on family trees.
Nolan Duffy, family law attorney and legal mediator, and Jillian Parisi-Duffy, his daughter, live in an old Victorian home in a picturesque small mountain town.
When Meri Davies arrives in town and starts working at The Inn at Hidden Run Bed-and-Breakfast, owned by Nia and Leo Dunston, she seems very nervous and distracted. It isn't long before Jillian and her father try to "take her under their wings" and befriend her. What is Meri hiding? Why does she seem like she might run away?
Some of the historical scenes are based on true happenings. The historical part of the story takes place in Memphis during the Yellow Fever epidemic of the late nineteenth century. I was very interested in the story of Eliza Davies and admired the loving way she unselfishly devoted herself to helping the Sisters care for the poor, sick and dying people and orphans.
"Officially the city was still under quarantine. Surely the Board of Health had some sort of plan for handling the cases that had erupted so far. The papers were vague about opinions of members of the Board of Health. Memphis physicians did not seem to be of uniform mind about the threat of yellow fever, nor appropriate treatment, but surely someone in charge would know how to dispatch help."
The main characters in both timelines were well developed with strong personalities. I like the easy give-and-take relationship between Jillian and her father.
I want to return to the friendly little Colorado mountain town of Canyon Mines to explore and celebrate more unforgettable family stories. 3.5 rounded up
"May you always find nourishment for your body at the table. May sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way." - Irish blessing
***Thanks to author Olivia Newport, Shiloh Run Press, Barbour Publishing, and NetGalley for a digital ARC of The Inn at Hidden Run #1 in the series Tree of Life in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
#TheInnAtHiddenRun
#NetGalley
Posted on GoodReads, NetGalley, Savvy Reader, Twitter
April 25, 2019
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts.
What a charming, heartbreaking story! This book was an incredibly rich, detailed time-split tale that is a wonderful start to the Tree of Life series.
The historical thread was so fascinating. I found myself completely wrapped up in Eliza’s journey even though I wasn’t sure, until halfway through the book, why it was being told.
The contemporary thread slipped a few times into a “preachy” mode, not about religion but about how genealogy and the search for and through proper records to find family histories works. I would have loved this to be smoothed out a bit more, as it was so beautifully done in the latter chapters of the book.
That being said, I rather enjoyed getting to know Jillian, Nolan, Meri, Nia, and Leo—the featured characters in the contemporary portion of the novel. They each brought important aspects to the story and had strong personalities that played well against each other for the sake of the plot. Perhaps my favorite subplot was Jillian’s search for a replacement mug. I’ve been there plenty of times where a favorite is broken, and, trust me, the hunt is real! I also enjoyed the levity this thread brought, particularly after a couple of heavier historical scenes.
A few of the major “surprises” were completely predictable to me, but there was a certain satisfaction in knowing I had reasoned out those plot points just as well as the author as she was writing this story. These few moments did not detract from my reading experience, because both story lines were engaging, interesting, and heightened with the good sort of drama.
Fabulous news! This book contained ZERO expletives or profanities. SUCH a refreshing thing!
Content: wine used in a sauce (once), death associated with illness, tobacco mentioned (once)
Recipes would be a great addition to this book.
What a charming, heartbreaking story! This book was an incredibly rich, detailed time-split tale that is a wonderful start to the Tree of Life series.
The historical thread was so fascinating. I found myself completely wrapped up in Eliza’s journey even though I wasn’t sure, until halfway through the book, why it was being told.
The contemporary thread slipped a few times into a “preachy” mode, not about religion but about how genealogy and the search for and through proper records to find family histories works. I would have loved this to be smoothed out a bit more, as it was so beautifully done in the latter chapters of the book.
That being said, I rather enjoyed getting to know Jillian, Nolan, Meri, Nia, and Leo—the featured characters in the contemporary portion of the novel. They each brought important aspects to the story and had strong personalities that played well against each other for the sake of the plot. Perhaps my favorite subplot was Jillian’s search for a replacement mug. I’ve been there plenty of times where a favorite is broken, and, trust me, the hunt is real! I also enjoyed the levity this thread brought, particularly after a couple of heavier historical scenes.
A few of the major “surprises” were completely predictable to me, but there was a certain satisfaction in knowing I had reasoned out those plot points just as well as the author as she was writing this story. These few moments did not detract from my reading experience, because both story lines were engaging, interesting, and heightened with the good sort of drama.
Fabulous news! This book contained ZERO expletives or profanities. SUCH a refreshing thing!
Content: wine used in a sauce (once), death associated with illness, tobacco mentioned (once)
Recipes would be a great addition to this book.
May 13, 2019
I don’t know. This was between 2 and 3 stars for me but ended with 2 because will I recommend it to friends, no. Will I continue this series, no.
So what I liked:
I enjoyed the historical detail about the yellow fever outbreak in 1978 Memphis. If you love history, you will love this. However, there was not really a flowing story, but very factual based retelling of what happened etc.
Why just okay:
The modern day story did not connect with me. I find it quite unbelievable that things will play out in real life like they did. And the people who were trying to help Meri felt just as controlling and meddling as her family. The writing style also didn’t connect with me and I got quite bored about Jillian’s search for her next favourite mug. Also all the detail about her genealogy process was a bit boring (it was need to authenticate her findings, but too much for me.
There is a lot of people who did like this book, it just wasn’t for me and I would probably not continue this series.
*I received a complimentary review copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.*
So what I liked:
I enjoyed the historical detail about the yellow fever outbreak in 1978 Memphis. If you love history, you will love this. However, there was not really a flowing story, but very factual based retelling of what happened etc.
Why just okay:
The modern day story did not connect with me. I find it quite unbelievable that things will play out in real life like they did. And the people who were trying to help Meri felt just as controlling and meddling as her family. The writing style also didn’t connect with me and I got quite bored about Jillian’s search for her next favourite mug. Also all the detail about her genealogy process was a bit boring (it was need to authenticate her findings, but too much for me.
There is a lot of people who did like this book, it just wasn’t for me and I would probably not continue this series.
*I received a complimentary review copy from the publisher via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.*
December 26, 2019
"Sometimes in order to understand ourselves, we have to understand our families." (p 60)
There's something you need to know about me. I'm a stunted closet genealogist. I'm that person who watches and re-watches episodes of Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. and literally sobs my heart out over the stories he uncovers for his celebrity clients. I'm crying partly because the ancestor stories are so moving and partly because I can't find any stories related to the names and dates on my family tree. So I live vicariously through Mr. Gates....and now through this series. So Olivia Newport gets a hearty, fan-girling Eeeeepppp!!!!! from me. :-)
Though, I have to say that the synopsis is a tad misleading. While this book is about Meri's struggles with her family's expectations, it's told from the points of view of genealogist Jillian and her lawyer/mediator father, Nolan. At least, the contemporary time line is because...insert an image of me in wild biblio-girl jitterbugging abandon...this is a dual timeline story!!!!!! And the 1878 Memphis epidemic timeline is told from Eliza's perspective. Whoa! Have the tissue boxes handy!
To say I was completely riveted by both stories would be an understatement. I loved the way Newport developed the plots to the point where they collide together in a Eureka! moment Meri and her family will never forgot. But there's a lot of angst and dysfunction before that happens.
Absolutely love the father/daughter dynamics between Nolan and Jillian. There's teasing and banter but a deep, underlying understanding between the two. And Nolan is full of patriarchal gems of wisdom -- "...the work will always be there later, but the moment is only here now." (p 52) The book is full of gentle undercurrents about family and faith and the way who we are is built upon who our ancestors were.
Now I'm super excited to get reading book two in The Tree of Life series -- In the Cradle Lies (a November 2019 release.) Then I'll be impatiently waiting for May and November 2020 when the next Tree of Life books will be released. Woot! Lots of Happy Reading in store for me!
There's something you need to know about me. I'm a stunted closet genealogist. I'm that person who watches and re-watches episodes of Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. and literally sobs my heart out over the stories he uncovers for his celebrity clients. I'm crying partly because the ancestor stories are so moving and partly because I can't find any stories related to the names and dates on my family tree. So I live vicariously through Mr. Gates....and now through this series. So Olivia Newport gets a hearty, fan-girling Eeeeepppp!!!!! from me. :-)
Though, I have to say that the synopsis is a tad misleading. While this book is about Meri's struggles with her family's expectations, it's told from the points of view of genealogist Jillian and her lawyer/mediator father, Nolan. At least, the contemporary time line is because...insert an image of me in wild biblio-girl jitterbugging abandon...this is a dual timeline story!!!!!! And the 1878 Memphis epidemic timeline is told from Eliza's perspective. Whoa! Have the tissue boxes handy!
To say I was completely riveted by both stories would be an understatement. I loved the way Newport developed the plots to the point where they collide together in a Eureka! moment Meri and her family will never forgot. But there's a lot of angst and dysfunction before that happens.
Absolutely love the father/daughter dynamics between Nolan and Jillian. There's teasing and banter but a deep, underlying understanding between the two. And Nolan is full of patriarchal gems of wisdom -- "...the work will always be there later, but the moment is only here now." (p 52) The book is full of gentle undercurrents about family and faith and the way who we are is built upon who our ancestors were.
Now I'm super excited to get reading book two in The Tree of Life series -- In the Cradle Lies (a November 2019 release.) Then I'll be impatiently waiting for May and November 2020 when the next Tree of Life books will be released. Woot! Lots of Happy Reading in store for me!
April 15, 2019
This is a dual timelines story set in present day and in 1878 Memphis that ties together in the end. I wasn't sure how it would be, but it was done well with a positive ending. When Meri shows up at Nia and Leo's bed and breakfast in Canyon Mines, Colorado, near Denver, looking for work, Nia gives her a job but feels that Meri is running from something. She gets her friend, Jillian involved in befriending Meri. Jillian is a genealogist and her father is an attorney. Jillian works from home and her father Nolan does when he can. Nia discovers a letter in Meri's room that she shouldn't have read but she did and found out that Meri flunked out of med school in Tennessee. Everyone tries to help Meri but she is insistent that they cannot help. It is expected to become a doctor in her family but her interests are elsewhere. How can Jillian, Nolan and the others help Meri? Especially using genealogy?
The other side of the dual timeline is a historical story of the yellow fever epidemic in Memphis in 1878. The wealthy left town leaving Memphis with poor people and African Americans, former slaves and now some are domestic help. This story centers around Eliza Davies and how she stayed behind while her parents went North for the hot summer months. She throws herself into helping victims and those nursing the victims in whatever way was needed through her church.
The yellow fever story is one that I have read before, especially how it affected New Orleans. This part of the story was interesting although very sad. Memphis took quite a hit during this time. It was interesting how the author was able to tie Meri's family back to the characters in the historical side of the story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are mine only.
The other side of the dual timeline is a historical story of the yellow fever epidemic in Memphis in 1878. The wealthy left town leaving Memphis with poor people and African Americans, former slaves and now some are domestic help. This story centers around Eliza Davies and how she stayed behind while her parents went North for the hot summer months. She throws herself into helping victims and those nursing the victims in whatever way was needed through her church.
The yellow fever story is one that I have read before, especially how it affected New Orleans. This part of the story was interesting although very sad. Memphis took quite a hit during this time. It was interesting how the author was able to tie Meri's family back to the characters in the historical side of the story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are mine only.
July 2, 2020
I thought it was a nice read. Enjoyed the small town of Canyon Mines. However, I did feel that the people of the town, especially Nolan Duffy, were a tad too nosy. It almost seemed kinda creepy that Nolan took such a personal interest in Meri. I understand they were concerned about her, but think they should have minded their own business at times instead of chasing the poor woman down every time she went somewhere.
October 8, 2019
Meri shows up in Canyon Mines, Colorado. It is clear to the inn's owner the girl is running from something, but she hires her to replace a longtime employee who recently left. She introduces her to her friend Jillian, a genealogist, and Jillian's attorney father, Nolan. Although some snooping took place to discover Meri's family pressured her into following the family tradition into medicine. She was a great student, but she flunked out of medical school. That was not her dream. It was that of her parents. Jillian begins exploring Meri's family history to find why the family felt so tied to the medical profession. When Meri's family shows up on the doorstep to force her to return to Tennessee with them, tempers flare. Will Jillian and Nolan be able to get Meri's family to hear her out? Will the family story Jillian uncovered help bridge the gap?
This novel alternated between the present-day in Colorado and 1878 Memphis during the yellow fever outbreak. With family in the area, I've read quite a bit about the yellow fever epidemic in that city, and the author seems to have hit upon the right theme to use in her story. I don't think the alternating times worked as smoothly as in some books. I loved the historical part. I liked the characters in the modern part although Meri's family frustrated me. Some of the things Jillian uncovered could not realistically have been done in the time frame, even if it was realistic a genealogist in a distant city would get up and retrieve records in the middle of the night. Still it was an interesting read, and I'll probably read the next in the series. I received an electronic copy through a GoodReads giveaway. Although reviews are encouraged, they are not required. (3.5 stars)
This novel alternated between the present-day in Colorado and 1878 Memphis during the yellow fever outbreak. With family in the area, I've read quite a bit about the yellow fever epidemic in that city, and the author seems to have hit upon the right theme to use in her story. I don't think the alternating times worked as smoothly as in some books. I loved the historical part. I liked the characters in the modern part although Meri's family frustrated me. Some of the things Jillian uncovered could not realistically have been done in the time frame, even if it was realistic a genealogist in a distant city would get up and retrieve records in the middle of the night. Still it was an interesting read, and I'll probably read the next in the series. I received an electronic copy through a GoodReads giveaway. Although reviews are encouraged, they are not required. (3.5 stars)
August 27, 2019
2.5 stars
"No offense . . . . but a pretty family tree is not going to fix this."
Jillian Parisi-Duffy is a genealogist, so linking the past to the present through a person's ancestry is a task that she takes very seriously and is convinced could bring healing to her new friend's complicated family relationships. Tracking names through the yellow fever epidemic that nearly wiped out the entire population of Memphis, Tennessee in 1878 is tricky and possibly impossible. . . . . but Meri needs a validation of her calling, which is very different from her family's unrelenting expectations.
Have you wanted to like a book more than you actually did, only to discover that once completed, it's value actually rose through recollection? "The Inn at Hidden Run" was quite likable, its characters and their perplexities creative and unique, but the delivery felt weighted down by the unnecessary details and repetitious conversations. Those weaknesses weren't ruinous, however, because it was just interesting enough to keep me turning pages.
"May you always find nourishment for your body at the table, .. . may sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way."
"No offense . . . . but a pretty family tree is not going to fix this."
Jillian Parisi-Duffy is a genealogist, so linking the past to the present through a person's ancestry is a task that she takes very seriously and is convinced could bring healing to her new friend's complicated family relationships. Tracking names through the yellow fever epidemic that nearly wiped out the entire population of Memphis, Tennessee in 1878 is tricky and possibly impossible. . . . . but Meri needs a validation of her calling, which is very different from her family's unrelenting expectations.
Have you wanted to like a book more than you actually did, only to discover that once completed, it's value actually rose through recollection? "The Inn at Hidden Run" was quite likable, its characters and their perplexities creative and unique, but the delivery felt weighted down by the unnecessary details and repetitious conversations. Those weaknesses weren't ruinous, however, because it was just interesting enough to keep me turning pages.
"May you always find nourishment for your body at the table, .. . may sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way."
April 17, 2019
I’m fascinated by genealogy discoveries and history, so this story appealed to me right away. I also liked the setting of the story, a small mountain town set in Colorado.
What I disliked about the story was the unbelievable way some of the characters just nosed their way into a young woman’s personal life. Yes, they meant well and they were nice people, but the way they treated this woman was a bit unbelievable to me.
I felt the story moved a bit slow and also seemed like an advertisement for coffee at times. Coffee and food were a prominent feature for the characters of the story. Everything seemed to be solved with a meal.
I did like the way the author wrapped up the story and the portions showing the history of the yellow fever epidemic were quite interesting. The work of the genealogist really made sense in helping the family with their issues and it was nice to see how the past can impact the future in such a nice way.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Shiloh Run Press for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.
What I disliked about the story was the unbelievable way some of the characters just nosed their way into a young woman’s personal life. Yes, they meant well and they were nice people, but the way they treated this woman was a bit unbelievable to me.
I felt the story moved a bit slow and also seemed like an advertisement for coffee at times. Coffee and food were a prominent feature for the characters of the story. Everything seemed to be solved with a meal.
I did like the way the author wrapped up the story and the portions showing the history of the yellow fever epidemic were quite interesting. The work of the genealogist really made sense in helping the family with their issues and it was nice to see how the past can impact the future in such a nice way.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Shiloh Run Press for allowing me to read an advance copy and give my honest review.
November 23, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book.
Maybe I'll explain later...
Maybe I'll explain later...
February 7, 2019
from endorsement:
An immersive read populated by characters as rich as the carefully crafted Colorado setting of Canyon Mines, The Inn at Hidden Run is at once a love letter to the past, a romance and a mystery. Newport smartly differentiates herself in the popular ‘time slip genre’ by rooting her story in the art of genealogy. At home with both the historical canvas of epidemic-raged late 19th Century Memphis and her contemporary frame, Newport examines the core human desire for a sense of roots and belonging. Anyone who has ever wondered how the patches of their histories are sewn into the fabric of their lives will feel completely at home in Hidden Run.
An immersive read populated by characters as rich as the carefully crafted Colorado setting of Canyon Mines, The Inn at Hidden Run is at once a love letter to the past, a romance and a mystery. Newport smartly differentiates herself in the popular ‘time slip genre’ by rooting her story in the art of genealogy. At home with both the historical canvas of epidemic-raged late 19th Century Memphis and her contemporary frame, Newport examines the core human desire for a sense of roots and belonging. Anyone who has ever wondered how the patches of their histories are sewn into the fabric of their lives will feel completely at home in Hidden Run.
June 21, 2019
While I enjoyed the historical jump back in time and the story that went along with it, the present tale and characters, I really found myself more annoyed with than anything. I felt like a lot of their interactions were unbelievable and contrived. I will not be moving on in this series.
Thank you to Goodreads for the giveaway!
Thank you to Goodreads for the giveaway!
June 9, 2019
"Work will always be there later, but the moment is only here now."
"May you always find nourishment for your body at this table. May sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way." (Lovely Irish table blessing.)
As a genealogy addict myself, I really enjoyed this book. Sometimes dual timelines do not work well, but Newport did a superb job of carrying each through without losing the train of thought of either. I enjoyed both the historic and current lines equally. Her research into the yellow fever epidemic in Memphis (which I knew nothing about) was impeccable.
I found the main characters in each timeline realistic and admirable. I can totally understand Jillian's obsession and losing track of time when working on genealogy. I have had that happen more times than I can count. I would like to see her find more life outside of her work, but the care she takes with her clients was sweet. The role Nolan played in mediating the estrangement between Meri and her family was wonderful. Although trained as a lawyer, his counseling skills were incredible. In this historic time line, Eliza was amazing. What a kind, caring, loving woman. So selfless, and so giving. The role that she and the nuns played in caring for the thousands stricken and dying from yellow fever was unbelievable. The ending tying the two timelines together was something I suspected, but still left enough hanging that I look forward to the next book in the series, In the Cradle Lies, which releases in November.
**** I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
"May you always find nourishment for your body at this table. May sustenance for your spirit rise and fill you with each dawn. And may life always feed you with the light of joy along the way." (Lovely Irish table blessing.)
As a genealogy addict myself, I really enjoyed this book. Sometimes dual timelines do not work well, but Newport did a superb job of carrying each through without losing the train of thought of either. I enjoyed both the historic and current lines equally. Her research into the yellow fever epidemic in Memphis (which I knew nothing about) was impeccable.
I found the main characters in each timeline realistic and admirable. I can totally understand Jillian's obsession and losing track of time when working on genealogy. I have had that happen more times than I can count. I would like to see her find more life outside of her work, but the care she takes with her clients was sweet. The role Nolan played in mediating the estrangement between Meri and her family was wonderful. Although trained as a lawyer, his counseling skills were incredible. In this historic time line, Eliza was amazing. What a kind, caring, loving woman. So selfless, and so giving. The role that she and the nuns played in caring for the thousands stricken and dying from yellow fever was unbelievable. The ending tying the two timelines together was something I suspected, but still left enough hanging that I look forward to the next book in the series, In the Cradle Lies, which releases in November.
**** I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
March 30, 2022
I didn't really know what to make of this at first but I kept plodding through and before I knew it, I was cheering for Meri to have the courage or at least let the power of her past empower her future. The characters(all of them) at first seem disjointed to me, but I slowly got to know and really like Nolan and his daughter Jillian and appreciate them.
June 1, 2019
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2YDvjmP
The field of genealogy brings a freshness to The Inn at Hidden Run, book #1 in Olivia Newport’s Tree of Life series, and I enjoyed it very much. The action builds steadily as a solid foundation is laid in this first book, and my attention was held as I became invested in the characters and past/present events blended together in a most meaningful way. The story is more character driven than action packed, which is the type I enjoy most.
Canyon Mines, Colorado makes a very appealing setting – a community with a rich history in gold and silver mining, and that was now a Rocky Mountain tourist destination for outdoor activities and family outings. I met many likeable characters and would love to spend time with them in person at the Canary Cage coffee shop.
Best of all is that this is a story of family and relationships that go back in history. The field of genealogy and the various ways it can be used to help people is fascinating. I could so easily relate to Jillian, a “researcher who prowled depths of the internet most people had no idea existed.” Meri, fearful and obviously running from something, immediately captured my heart. I especially enjoyed the time-slip theme with family research going back to an 1870s yellow fever epidemic in Memphis.
The Inn at Hidden Run is a well-crafted novel with a fresh approach that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward the upcoming stories in this series.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
The field of genealogy brings a freshness to The Inn at Hidden Run, book #1 in Olivia Newport’s Tree of Life series, and I enjoyed it very much. The action builds steadily as a solid foundation is laid in this first book, and my attention was held as I became invested in the characters and past/present events blended together in a most meaningful way. The story is more character driven than action packed, which is the type I enjoy most.
Canyon Mines, Colorado makes a very appealing setting – a community with a rich history in gold and silver mining, and that was now a Rocky Mountain tourist destination for outdoor activities and family outings. I met many likeable characters and would love to spend time with them in person at the Canary Cage coffee shop.
Best of all is that this is a story of family and relationships that go back in history. The field of genealogy and the various ways it can be used to help people is fascinating. I could so easily relate to Jillian, a “researcher who prowled depths of the internet most people had no idea existed.” Meri, fearful and obviously running from something, immediately captured my heart. I especially enjoyed the time-slip theme with family research going back to an 1870s yellow fever epidemic in Memphis.
The Inn at Hidden Run is a well-crafted novel with a fresh approach that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward the upcoming stories in this series.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
March 24, 2019
A family centered story with a unique plot and a bit of mystery. Living in a small town had its benefits, including helping each other in times of need. Jillian's friendship with Nia, the bed and breakfast owner, and Jillian's attorney dad, Nolan, brings timely help when Nia's mysterious new employee goes missing the day after she is hired.
The dual timeline worked well in this tale, pulling together a family history that made a difference in the present turmoil of Meri's family. Family genealogy can be very interesting and eye opening. I never thought of it as a tool to help someone in a family crisis, as it is used in this story. Families are all so different that it does sometimes help to bring clarity to the present by looking at the past, as the author points out. Jillian is like a detective in that way, pulling pieces of family history together to help bring resolution. Her father Nolan was an interesting character, using his skills of negotiation to help someone in a crisis. They were so willing to help Meri out, dropping everything to do it. I enjoyed their relationship and look forward to more of their story in the next book.
Recommend to readers looking for character driven stories with some real history mixed in, some faith elements, and no romance.
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The dual timeline worked well in this tale, pulling together a family history that made a difference in the present turmoil of Meri's family. Family genealogy can be very interesting and eye opening. I never thought of it as a tool to help someone in a family crisis, as it is used in this story. Families are all so different that it does sometimes help to bring clarity to the present by looking at the past, as the author points out. Jillian is like a detective in that way, pulling pieces of family history together to help bring resolution. Her father Nolan was an interesting character, using his skills of negotiation to help someone in a crisis. They were so willing to help Meri out, dropping everything to do it. I enjoyed their relationship and look forward to more of their story in the next book.
Recommend to readers looking for character driven stories with some real history mixed in, some faith elements, and no romance.
(An e-book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
March 18, 2021
4 stelle abbondanti a cui aggiungo un'altra mezza stella perché la protagonista si occupa di genealogia, una mia passione fin da quando ero ragazzina. Mi sono ben immedesimata con lei a parte la sua mania di cercare la giusta tazza per bere il caffè.
Questo è un cozy mystery anomalo, forse è anche errato definirlo così. Per una volta non c'è un morto ammazzato e il mistero è quello che circonda una nuova amicizia della protagonista e delle persone a lei più vicine. Ovviamente, per risolvere questo mistero bisogna indagare sul passato della famiglia della ragazza... Nel libro ci sono vari capitoli ambientati a Memphis durante una epidemia di febbre gialla nel 1878 (e c'è un perché): devo dire che leggerli mentre impazza il covid mi ha fatto venire i brividi.
Questo è un cozy mystery anomalo, forse è anche errato definirlo così. Per una volta non c'è un morto ammazzato e il mistero è quello che circonda una nuova amicizia della protagonista e delle persone a lei più vicine. Ovviamente, per risolvere questo mistero bisogna indagare sul passato della famiglia della ragazza... Nel libro ci sono vari capitoli ambientati a Memphis durante una epidemia di febbre gialla nel 1878 (e c'è un perché): devo dire che leggerli mentre impazza il covid mi ha fatto venire i brividi.
April 22, 2019
"The Inn at Hidden Run" by Olivia Newport
I really liked this story. A contemporary family with very strong traditions... and the discovery of the foundation those traditions were based upon. I had a bit of trouble getting used to slipping from current time to the 1870's. But then it became a bit of a relief to swap between the challenges of the two very different time periods. A chance to rest and digest the emotions and challenges presented in each era. Be sure to read the authors note at the end... the perfect ending to the story. I was gifted an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley and this review is wholly my thoughts, my opinions.
I really liked this story. A contemporary family with very strong traditions... and the discovery of the foundation those traditions were based upon. I had a bit of trouble getting used to slipping from current time to the 1870's. But then it became a bit of a relief to swap between the challenges of the two very different time periods. A chance to rest and digest the emotions and challenges presented in each era. Be sure to read the authors note at the end... the perfect ending to the story. I was gifted an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley and this review is wholly my thoughts, my opinions.
February 16, 2019
You can find this review and others on my blog SleepySamReads!
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If I was rating thing review based off the portion that takes place in Memphis 1878, I would rate it 5 stars. If I was rating this based off the contemporary Colorado portion, I would rate it 1 star. So I decided to just rate is 3. I'm going to review each portion as a separate story, because that's how it felt.
Memphis 1878:
I thoroughly loved this. I was born and raised in Memphis and I've never read a book set here!! I loved reading this little bit of history from my home. This story took place during the 1878 yellow fever epidemic in Memphis. This really happened, and most of the characters are based off real people who helped the city during this time. During this particular epidemic there was 17,000 cases and more than 5,000 people died, most being African Americans.
I really loved Eliza. She does everything within her power to help people, and I admire that so much. She risked her own life multiple times to care for the sick.
Eliza is a 'spinster' who is in her early 40s and not married. I admire this a lot. This story had absolutely no romance and it wasn't something Eliza yearned for. I LOVE this. I don't like how much stories feel the need to have unnecessary romance plots. I'm really glad this one didn't.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this part of the story was how we get to learn a little bit about how medicine was practiced in the 1800s. This has always been a source of interest in me.
The ending of Eliza's story was really good and made my heart happy.
Colorado 2019:
I despised this part of the story. It's the reason why it took me so long to read, and is why this book is not a 5 star book for me.
A big part of the reason I disliked it so much was Jillian. She is one of the most boring characters I've ever read in my life. She did nothing in the book but work. She is friends with the owner of Hidden Run Inn, but I honestly have no clue why. They have nothing in common and Jillian doesn't leave her office.
I also don't really understand why this part of the story is in Jillian's POV and nor Meri's??? I think it would have been SO much more interesting in Meri's POV. Jillian could have still easily been part of the story, just not the center of it.
I will say that I was very pleased with how Meri was related to Eliza and the end of the book.
I did enjoy this story, but I hated part of it too.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If I was rating thing review based off the portion that takes place in Memphis 1878, I would rate it 5 stars. If I was rating this based off the contemporary Colorado portion, I would rate it 1 star. So I decided to just rate is 3. I'm going to review each portion as a separate story, because that's how it felt.
Memphis 1878:
I thoroughly loved this. I was born and raised in Memphis and I've never read a book set here!! I loved reading this little bit of history from my home. This story took place during the 1878 yellow fever epidemic in Memphis. This really happened, and most of the characters are based off real people who helped the city during this time. During this particular epidemic there was 17,000 cases and more than 5,000 people died, most being African Americans.
I really loved Eliza. She does everything within her power to help people, and I admire that so much. She risked her own life multiple times to care for the sick.
Eliza is a 'spinster' who is in her early 40s and not married. I admire this a lot. This story had absolutely no romance and it wasn't something Eliza yearned for. I LOVE this. I don't like how much stories feel the need to have unnecessary romance plots. I'm really glad this one didn't.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this part of the story was how we get to learn a little bit about how medicine was practiced in the 1800s. This has always been a source of interest in me.
The ending of Eliza's story was really good and made my heart happy.
Colorado 2019:
I despised this part of the story. It's the reason why it took me so long to read, and is why this book is not a 5 star book for me.
A big part of the reason I disliked it so much was Jillian. She is one of the most boring characters I've ever read in my life. She did nothing in the book but work. She is friends with the owner of Hidden Run Inn, but I honestly have no clue why. They have nothing in common and Jillian doesn't leave her office.
I also don't really understand why this part of the story is in Jillian's POV and nor Meri's??? I think it would have been SO much more interesting in Meri's POV. Jillian could have still easily been part of the story, just not the center of it.
I will say that I was very pleased with how Meri was related to Eliza and the end of the book.
I did enjoy this story, but I hated part of it too.
May 9, 2019
I have enjoyed reading many books by this author and this one is the beginning of a new series.
We are in a small town in Colorado and also, we flash back to a horrible time in history in Memphis Tennessee when they suffered from the yellow fever.
We are also gifted with a delightful father, a lawyer, and daughter, a genealogist, who endeavor to help a visitor/worker to their town.
I really enjoyed putting together the back drop of this visiting family, like doing a puzzle, a great concept and enjoyable read, and am glad we will be coming back!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are in a small town in Colorado and also, we flash back to a horrible time in history in Memphis Tennessee when they suffered from the yellow fever.
We are also gifted with a delightful father, a lawyer, and daughter, a genealogist, who endeavor to help a visitor/worker to their town.
I really enjoyed putting together the back drop of this visiting family, like doing a puzzle, a great concept and enjoyable read, and am glad we will be coming back!
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
May 21, 2019
Wonderful book with a story line that combines the past and the present.
April 15, 2019
I read this book that was provided for me to read. I really was enthralled with the stories of the historical yellow fever outbreak in Memphis. It was so well written that I was in the middle of the pain! The characters are quite believable and I definitely want to read the following stories! Please read this book for family relationships as well as the historical ones! Loved it!
May 21, 2019
I'll be honest in saying the cover of this book caught my eye. From there I was intrigued about the story line, books set in Colorado I try to read. I enjoyed the setting and the first part of the book I liked a lot. The characters were set up nicely and I actually liked both timelines in this novel. It flips from past to present and I thought both were good. I think at times, especially later in the book, the story line got slow. The modern day timeline seemed to be pretty uneventful or perhaps repetitious during the latter half. Aside from that I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this story. I am curious to see where the author takes the rest of the books in this series.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
March 6, 2019
This story is actually two stories in one that link together in the end. I really enjoyed the portion that took place in the 1800's in Memphis. So many emotions were running through me every time I came to a portion in the book that dealt with Memphis. This part was well written and deserved a 5 star review; however, I didn't like the portion that took place in Colorado in modern times. I didn't like the people (other than Meri). They were boring and not very realistic. Who opens their home in this day and time to complete strangers? And what person is going to put up with the way Nolan, Nia, and Jillian kept butting into Meri's business? I did give this book only 3 stars because of the Colorado portion. This book was at times confusing when Jillian was explaining the connection between past and present.
This was a goodreads.com giveaway.
This was a goodreads.com giveaway.
March 22, 2019
I have never read a novel with a genealogist as a main character. What a fascinating job. Add an inn in Colorado and a mysterious runaway young woman, every chapter brings another layer to the girl’s history. I especially enjoy the historical aspect as the reader glimpses conditions in the past that mold the future.
Jillian, a genealogist, and her father Nolan, a lawyer decide to help Meri face her family and confront their disappointment in her career choice. Meri Davies has dreams that continue to steer her in a direction practically forbidden by her family.
The author follows the life of Eliza Davies in 1878 in Memphis during a yellow fever epidemic. Not until the end of the novel do the two stories dissect.
I’d highly recommend this novel if you like exploring the link between the present and the past.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Jillian, a genealogist, and her father Nolan, a lawyer decide to help Meri face her family and confront their disappointment in her career choice. Meri Davies has dreams that continue to steer her in a direction practically forbidden by her family.
The author follows the life of Eliza Davies in 1878 in Memphis during a yellow fever epidemic. Not until the end of the novel do the two stories dissect.
I’d highly recommend this novel if you like exploring the link between the present and the past.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2020
I loved reading this book. Olivia Newport is a new author for me, I hadn't read any of her books before but I am certain to follow this series.
The Inn at Hidden Run seems like a delightful place that I would love to stumble upon. The father-daughter relationship described in this book is really fun to watch unravel and was by far one of my favorite things about this book. The way the author weaves together a historical story and a modern day story was really engaging.
I wanted to connect to the modern day story more than I did, but I was totally enthralled with the mystery of the historical story. If you love genealogy or mysteries, you will likely love this book!
The publisher provided an ARC through Netgalley. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts
The Inn at Hidden Run seems like a delightful place that I would love to stumble upon. The father-daughter relationship described in this book is really fun to watch unravel and was by far one of my favorite things about this book. The way the author weaves together a historical story and a modern day story was really engaging.
I wanted to connect to the modern day story more than I did, but I was totally enthralled with the mystery of the historical story. If you love genealogy or mysteries, you will likely love this book!
The publisher provided an ARC through Netgalley. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts
Read
May 11, 2019RTC
May 31, 2019
Will I Read the Rest of This Unique New Series?
There’s a lot to like about The Inn at Hidden Run. You take some quirky characters, put them into tense situations, and fun things emerge. Mix in interesting settings and a cool dual-timeline plot and really, what’s not to like?
Sigh. That’s my problem. I want to love it all. In fact, I was convinced, before ever cracking a cover, that it would make my top books of 2019 list.
It won’t.
Despite the strengths of the premise, the characters (seriously, I loved hating one of them), and the setting, there were other things that just… not so much.
I think it’s best just to list them and move along.
Confusion.
The synopsis opens talking about Meri and even when other characters are brought in, they’re written about as if they are secondary. So, I was lost at first, trying to figure out where these people came from. What happened to Meri?
She shows up later in the first chapter. There were other confusing times, but I suspect those could have been me.
No hook.
Seriously. Nothing about the opening chapter hooked me. In fact, a friend was there when I began reading and I remember saying, “I think we could easily cut out the first half of this chapter.”
In retrospect, I disagree with myself, but it was my first impression.
Difficult suspension of disbelief
Look, I get overbearing families and hard expectations. Seriously, a couple of the things Meri heard from her parents regarding school achievements I heard from mine. Parental expectations can be nightmarish sometimes. But the way Meri handled herself, and the way the other characters reacted to her—too much of it seemed unrealistically over the top in places where realism was needed.
As you can see, I had problems. BUT, there were excellent elements.
The historical story was beautifully and excellently done. I really enjoyed the characters, the description, and the pull of the tragedy unfolding before you.
The tie-in between the historical and the present. I loved how we got to see where Meri’s past had actually shaped her present.
The genealogical premise. Basically, what you have is a genealogist detective. I want to read that story. And I suspect we will in future books.
So, because of that, I’ll be pre-ordering the next book in the series, and I really hope I’ll get to say that I really liked it. As for this one, I still don’t know how to define my thoughts.
I’m not sorry I read it or requested the review copy I was provided, but I don’t know who to recommend it for—or if I can.
NOTE: I hate Goodreads' rating sysem. Two stars seems like a HORRIBLE rating for a book I'm calling "okay." That just doesn't seem right. But, I can't say I liked or disliked it, so I'm going with Okay. I think Amazon's three-star rating for "okay" is much more just and accurate.
There’s a lot to like about The Inn at Hidden Run. You take some quirky characters, put them into tense situations, and fun things emerge. Mix in interesting settings and a cool dual-timeline plot and really, what’s not to like?
Sigh. That’s my problem. I want to love it all. In fact, I was convinced, before ever cracking a cover, that it would make my top books of 2019 list.
It won’t.
Despite the strengths of the premise, the characters (seriously, I loved hating one of them), and the setting, there were other things that just… not so much.
I think it’s best just to list them and move along.
Confusion.
The synopsis opens talking about Meri and even when other characters are brought in, they’re written about as if they are secondary. So, I was lost at first, trying to figure out where these people came from. What happened to Meri?
She shows up later in the first chapter. There were other confusing times, but I suspect those could have been me.
No hook.
Seriously. Nothing about the opening chapter hooked me. In fact, a friend was there when I began reading and I remember saying, “I think we could easily cut out the first half of this chapter.”
In retrospect, I disagree with myself, but it was my first impression.
Difficult suspension of disbelief
Look, I get overbearing families and hard expectations. Seriously, a couple of the things Meri heard from her parents regarding school achievements I heard from mine. Parental expectations can be nightmarish sometimes. But the way Meri handled herself, and the way the other characters reacted to her—too much of it seemed unrealistically over the top in places where realism was needed.
As you can see, I had problems. BUT, there were excellent elements.
The historical story was beautifully and excellently done. I really enjoyed the characters, the description, and the pull of the tragedy unfolding before you.
The tie-in between the historical and the present. I loved how we got to see where Meri’s past had actually shaped her present.
The genealogical premise. Basically, what you have is a genealogist detective. I want to read that story. And I suspect we will in future books.
So, because of that, I’ll be pre-ordering the next book in the series, and I really hope I’ll get to say that I really liked it. As for this one, I still don’t know how to define my thoughts.
I’m not sorry I read it or requested the review copy I was provided, but I don’t know who to recommend it for—or if I can.
NOTE: I hate Goodreads' rating sysem. Two stars seems like a HORRIBLE rating for a book I'm calling "okay." That just doesn't seem right. But, I can't say I liked or disliked it, so I'm going with Okay. I think Amazon's three-star rating for "okay" is much more just and accurate.
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