Could a nineteenth-century diary be the answer to Abigail’s prayers?
Iris wanted nothing more than to live her own adventure. But on the tails of the Colorado gold rush, a certain discovery could upend her world before it’s even begun.
Over a hundred years later, Abigail Prescott returns to the sleepy mountain town she once called home to help her great Aunt Josie restore the old antique shop, The Glass Cottage. Looking for peace and God’s direction for her life, the last thing she expected to encounter was a ghost from her past—
Benjamin Greene—her childhood best friend. The boy who got away.
Is this just a coincidence, or could it be the start of something greater?
Together, Ben and Abigail work to fix up the shop and stumble upon an old journal. With more questions than answers, Abigail embarks on a journey of self-discovery to track down the mysterious Iris, but the truth is not always what it seems.
In this tale of friendship, love lost, and love found, Abigail must decide for herself: Is every story worth saving, and if so, at what cost?
* Inspirational fiction with historical and contemporary timelines * Book 1 in the Prescott Family Romance Series * Includes recipe and discussion questions for book clubs and a note from the author
"I can't wait to read more of the Prescott Family Romance series. [Dear Beth] is highly recommended for fans of inspirational contemporary romance, especially for readers who enjoy novels by authors such as Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, Melissa Tagg, and Susan May Warren." -Goodreads Reviewer
I love a good story, especially if it has a happy ending! From mountain adventures to Downton Abbey-esque romances, I firmly believe we could all use a little more inspirational and heart-warming tales to keep us up at night—tales that take us on far away (or not so distant) adventures and speak words of life and truth into our lives.
Prescott Family Romance Series: Dear Beth (novella) The Glass Cottage The Glass Road Fields of Glass
A Midsummer Romance (Summer in Wild Rose Ridge #4)
"I thought (spoiler alert) were my shot at a second chance, but I've realized this is only a continuation of the path God has always been leading me on."
I took a chance on this debut as part of the JustReads reviewer tour, and was pleasantly surprised to find truly Christian characters. It was at a level unlike most Christian fiction, because their Christianity actually informed everything they did. When a character faced an issue, the others pointed then to Scripture. They prayed over everything. And this book even referenced...get this...surrender! 😱 So kudos to Alyssa for writing a faith journey that was actually a faith journey. I loved it and by proxy liked the characters.
There were a couple cool things about choices the characters made that were unexpected (such as: "He didn't need more answers. He knew exactly who he was, and he marveled at the way the Creator had woven his story together from the beginning." NOT needing to pursue all the answers to your mystery?! Rock on! Also the choice to not pursue riches that they could have.)
There was a couple places that were repetitive and a couple others that felt more dramatic than they needed to be. This is a time slip but the historical switched from being a journal to being third person, and I didn't connect with the way the historical aspect was done. It was a good book though and a great addition to the genre. There was nothing traumatizing in the story which is always a plus. I'm grateful for the opportunity to review it and all opinions are my own.
This debut, dual time story captured my interest from the first page as Iris is running for her life in a snowy landscape. The author uses a diary from 1883 that is found in an attic of an old antique store to connect the two time periods. Abigail Prescott and her Aunt Josie are fixing up a Victorian house to re-open an antique shop. Abby finds an old journal and she cannot help but wonder who the owner was. Ben Greene, a childhood friend, is helping paint and repair the shop. As they re-connect, Abby and Ben find more than childhood memories to build a relationship on. In their search for answers to the owner of the journal, Abby realizes that she has no control over the past and little over the future. Only God can lead her. “We know the One who holds everything together. You can trust Him to hold you together, too.” So many interesting things to learn about the Colorado mountains and early mining. Some spiritual parallels are shown about how gems are made through heat and pressure under the surface of the earth.. “As God refines us through the fire of our afflictions, He is turning us into something new, something that can reflect His brilliance like a diamond reflects the sun.” A great mystery with a surprise at the end. A re-kindled romance that was fun to watch develop. *I received a complimentary ebook from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. ~Proverbs 16:9
An old antique shop in desperate need of restoration and a journal make up this story of a hundred-year old mystery that historian Abigail Prescott simply can't resist trying to solve. With the help of her childhood friend Benjamin Greene, these two embark on a journey of discovery, intrigue, a little suspense, and learning that perhaps God really does have their future firmly in His hands!
I've often day-dreamed of buying an old run down house to restore and finding a diary or old letters behind a wall and wondering about the people who wrote them & the kind of life they lived. I think I would have a lot of fun trying to solve that mystery! This is what The Glass Cottage is about, solving a hundred-year old mystery of who Iris is in the journal Abigail finds. Giving voice to a mysterious person is what drives her to discover all she can and I so admired her passion & motivation! Watching a long-term friendship develop into something more with Ben was of particular delight to me. They have so much history between them that it sparked a surprising romance & great teamwork as they worked side by side.
I think I fell in love with everything about this story; the small-town feel, the characters that made this up, going along with Abigail & Ben as they hunted out more clues, and even Iris as I got to know her through the journal she penned. The author really brought this story to life in all the little details that made me want to turn the pages. The ending was surprising and just tied the whole story together so perfectly in my mind. I also appreciated the faith thread Alyssa included and how it played out in Abigail & Ben's life. They both overcame some fears they had held on to for far too long & it also helped remind me of some truths in my own life.
If you love discovering debut authors and reading a book to get lost in, consider picking up a copy of The Glass Cottage for yourself. I don't think you will be disappointed!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *
1880s: Iris, a young woman dreaming of her own adventure, lives in a small Colorado town during the Good Rush. She starts to work with her father and befriends his apprentice. Together they discover something that could change the course of life for themselves and their town. The only thing is…..someone else may be looking for it too.
Present day: Abigail returns to her small childhood town after losing her job in the city. With her love for antiques and anything historical, she starts to help her great aunt restore her antique store. Her childhood best friend is helping restore the building with her and her aunt. Together they discover a century old diary and Abigail is determined to unravel the mystery behind it. Over time Abigail and Ben restore their friendship and the Glass Cottage. Together they will need to decide if some mysteries are worth unraveling and if their hearts are open to love again.
I loved the main character and her love for all things old. Josephine (the great aunt) and Ben were such great characters as well. You were able to imagine it all unfold too, great descriptions by the author. I wasn’t expecting the ending to the mystery of Iris. The way the book started had me thinking something else entirely happened.
Abigail has had her life planned out, ever since high school. She's finished college and has what she's always considered to be her dream job, working as a historian, connecting the dots of the past and sometimes solving mysteries. But then, the unexpected happens.
At her cousin's urging, Abigail returns to the small Colorado town of Buena Vista to assist her aunt Josie, who's attempting a large-scale renovation of her antique shop. Abigail is a bit surprised when she sees how much work actually needs to be completed. But not nearly as surprised as she is to see her once-best friend, from early grade school years on, there to help as well. She'd thought Ben was still out in Seattle, living the big-city life.
In another timeline, one hundred years earlier, Iris is stumbling through the mountainous hillsides, being hampered not only by her long skirts but also by the snowstorm. She's doing her best to evade capture by the man who's been chasing her. His accusations ring in her ears, increasing her terror. She has got to get away from him.
Back in current-day Buena Vista, Abigail, ever the historian, is captivated by the old journal she and Ben discover. Who was Iris? Where did she live? What happened in her life? She goes on a hunt to discover Iris's identity and life story. Even as she is recalling, as she and Ben continue to work together, what an outstanding man he was, and is. Could God have planned a different future for Abigail than the one she'd envisioned?
Alyssa Schwarz paints a fascinating tale of old Colorado, and the current-day Centennial State, in her dual timeline tale of women separated by more than a hundred years; their relationships, dreams, and possible futures. Lovely read with a clean romance and the reminders that God really does have a future and a hope for his children.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Overall, I liked this novel. The story was intriguing, and I felt that the writing was well done. Based on the first chapter, I thought there would be a lot more action, but it ended up being more mysterious than suspenseful. The romance was chaste and appropriate with only a few kisses. The language was clean, and there was Scripture and Christian themes throughout. I appreciate independently published Christian authors who are unapologetic in writing actual Christian books if they are going to label them as such.
I also appreciated that the characters, while flawed, were not immature or overly dramatic. The author didn't create conflict by having her characters act ridiculous.
I did feel that some parts dragged a bit, and the pace could have been faster. There were entire scenes that were just a character's thoughts. This made me put it down every once in a while to do something else, but it didn't bother me enough that I didn't finish it.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction, especially romance.
“It was time to trust Him with it all, not just with the blessings, but with the heartbreak as well.”
With being so busy in my everyday life, I’m often hesitant to read books by debut authors since I don’t know if their writing style is my cup of tea. However, after reading the blurb of The Glass Cottage, it sounded exactly like something I would enjoy…a dual timeline novel focusing on the mystery behind a journal discovered from the 1800s along with a romantic thread of former childhood friends in the contemporary storyline. I am so glad I took a chance on a debut author because now I have another author to add to my must-read list.
A swoony hero, fun banter, and of course the romance…everything I look for in my inspirational fiction. The spiritual messages throughout the book were exactly what I needed and were so beautifully incorporated into the storyline. And the best part is…this is the first book in a series! I can’t wait to read more of the Prescott family adventures.
The Glass Cottage is highly recommended for readers of dual timeline novels, contemporary romance, and historical fiction. If you’ve read any books by Amanda Cox, I think this book has a similar writing style that readers will appreciate.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. I enjoyed The Glass Cottage so much that I also purchased a paperback copy for my keeper shelf.
The Glass Cottage is the author’s debut novel. I love duel time-line stories, with twists, adventure’s and romance between Ben and Abigail. How often do we want to do things on our own agenda and the stress of making those decision’s without waiting for God? Abigail’s character was very relatable to today. The story takes place in a small town in Colorado where Abigail returns home to help her aunt restore an antique shop, while doing this, they find an old journal. With the help from her childhood friend, they learn that Abigail needs to rely on God, like we all do. A story of mystery and adventure, grab a chair and dive into the story
The Glass Cottage is a dual time line story that is written by Alyssa Schwarz. I’m always excited to read debut books from new authors. This book takes place in a small town in Colorado. Abigail has returned home to help her great aunt restore an antique shop. She finds help from her childhood best friend, Benjamin Greene. While restoring they find an old journal. As they read and try to track down more about the journal Abigail learns that she does not have full control over her future. That she needs to rely on God to help guide her. The journal from the past and the present day will tie together in a way you will not expect.
Well written characters. Unique story line.
I received a copy of this book through Just Read Publicity Tours. All thoughts are my own.
The Glass Cottage Prescott Family Romance #1 By Alyssa Schwarz
What can I say - this book has it all romance, contemporary and historical settings, a mystery (maybe two), and second chances. The Glass Cottage opens in 1883 with a young woman seemingly in danger and the prologue leaves us with Iris's fate literally a cliffhanger. We are then taken to the present day with Abigail Prescott about to have one of the worst days ever. But this change in circumstances brings Abigail back to her childhood home and to Great Aunt Josie.
Abigail never planned to return home and she never expected to see Benjamin Green again - not when he had moved away during their senior year. But she and Ben are both back in the town that found them inseparable all those years ago. And the restoration project that Abigail is helping Aunt Josie with has gained another helping hand - Ben. Now if only Abigail could find a way to be less klutz prone in Ben's vicinity she would be forever grateful - damsel in distress is not her favorite situational condition.
As Ben and Abigail work to restore The Glass Cottage to they come across some interesting discoveries in the attic, including an old journal that gives the reader a glimpse of Iris's life before the dramatic events of the prologue. Determined to find Iris and preserve what she can of her life sends both Abigail and Ben on a journey of discovery. What they discover will forever alter their lives and the paths they are on.
The Glass Cottage was a delightful read and it is the first book in the Prescott Family Romance series and it was an excellent series debut. I, for one, can't wait for the release of the second book, which if it is as good as this book will prove to be another exciting and satisfying read.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion ~ all thoughts expressed are my own.
"Life wasn't like the movies. It didn't give you those assurances. And it was that uncertainty that kept her feet rooted firmly in place."
Abigail had plans for her life. She was willing to work hard to reach her goals. But when her life was derailed unexpectedly, she struggles to adjust. Returning to her hometown was certainly not in her plans. Finding faith to trust God when life has been disappointing was a challenge for her.
Ben never wanted to leave Buena Vista, but his parents had other ideas. He tried city life but decided he missed the slower life in the Colorado mountains. When his childhood friend, Abigail, returns, they connect again. He wants to make that connection a bit more permanent. Will he able to convince her to trust him with her heart?
Aunt Josephine is a key character, and she is certainly wise. Fixing up her antique shop is a big part of the plot. And the pie sounds delicious - good thing the recipe is provided!
This book has humor, family connections, community, historical suspense and a bit of romance. Both characters have to pray and ponder the past before they can move on into the future. The faith element in this book is well done.
Part of the book is a time lapse. That part was almost confusing since it was a mix between diary and "real life" historic scenarios. Considering it was not an equal split between the past and present, that almost took the plot in too many different directions. That was the main down side for me which is why I give this book a 4.5 stars. Rounding it up to a 5 star works for me because overall this was a very enjoyable book.
I will try to read the next book in the series and would read further books by this author. While I did read this book as a part of a book tour, I did check it out with Kindle Unlimited. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was thoroughly impressed by this split-time novel! I loved how the past and present tied into one another in the end. I loved the characters and the spiritual nuggets of encouragement that the author threw in throughout the book.
I could relate to Abigail's struggle to know what she was doing with her life and how the stress of those decisions could make her forget to seek God's ultimate plan for her. And the struggle to wait? Spot on.
I loved Ben and Abigail's story, and though I'm usually an enemies-to-more kind of girl, I will admit to having a soft spot for friends-to-more. Watching these two navigate their feelings was half the fun of this book.
Ultimately, this is a nice read for those who enjoy sweet romances, split-time fiction, and spiritually uplifting stories.
What a fun book to read when it was cold and snowy outside and I had no desire to step foot beyond the mailbox! I'm always up for a good dual timeline story, historical and contemporary threads that parallel and often intersect, so I knew right off the bat that The Glass Cottage would be up my alley. What I didn't expect was for the story to start off with the drama and danger that it did or to be followed up by a charming Hallmark-esque contemporary romance angle that gave me all of the warm fuzzies.
This may be Alyssa Schwarz's debut novel, as well as the first book in her Prescott Family Romance series, but I can tell you that she has some skill. The way that she drew out the historical thread, in the form of journal entries, and matched it so well to the progression of the contemporary part was very well done indeed.
I really enjoyed reading The Glass Cottage, it was a strong debut and I feel that Alyssa Schwarz will be an author to watch in the future. This first Prescott Family Romance was a fun and entertaining read and I am looking forward to reading book two whenever it releases. If you enjoy dual timeline stories definitely check out this author and her her debut novel...
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
I really enjoyed this book from a new-to-me author. I didn’t expect much but I am glad I decided to read this book.
It’s a time slip novel. The story started in 1883 through Iris’s journal. It intrigued me and kept me reading. Abigail and Ben found Iris’s journal. As a historian, Abby was more captivated with it.
Abigail and Ben’s friends-to-more and second chance romance was sweet. My favorite parts of the book are the fun-filled and enlightening conversations and reference to scriptures. Be it good or bad, I love their adventures together. Some were more dramatic than others though. It brought them together and closer to God as well. Aunt Josie seemed to be like a great aunt. She was supportive and full of fun.
As Abby continued to search the missing pieces from the journal, she had to learn to let go of the past. To forgive herself and to enjoy the blessings now. To trust God more about her future.
The change between time periods was not always seamless. But I was already invested in the story. I found it really interesting. I love the twist in the story and the historical facts included. I finished the book with a happy heart.
This is the first book in A Prescott Family Romance series and I will definitely read the next one.
4.5 stars
Thank you to the author and @justreadtours for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I will say I was a bit disappointed by the dual time line part of the story. I absolutely love dual time line storylines but this one just didn't quite intrigued me like so many others have. That being said the story is a good one. The first chapter captures your attention right away as it is set in the past and you immediately want to find out what is going to happen but the author doesn't go back to the past timeline for a while and for me it made the story drag on just a bit. I really did enjoy the present timeline and the story of Abby, Ben and Aunt Josie. For me their storyline is where the author's writing skill really shined. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters. They were realistic and relatable. I love how through the story Abby grows in her faith and lets go of some hurts from the past. With Ben's help she realizes that she is not in control of her life but rather God. Ben also has his moment of growth and his does relate to the past time line but again for me that was a bit weak.
Although the author had the elements of a dual time line for me it didn't flow but the present time line really captured me and I can't wait to read more from this author. I definitely recommend you give this one a chance. There was definitely romance and the element of faith is definitely present throughout the story.
I received a copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
The premise of The Glass Cottage instantly hooked me, and I knew I needed to read this debut novel by Alyssa Schwarz.
I must say, I was a little more than impressed, though I wasn’t sure at first. I struggled to get into this novel, questioning why I wasn’t connecting with the characters or story line like I had hoped, but once Abigail and Ben reconnected, and found Iris’s journal, I couldn’t put it down.
I am a sucker for a good small town renovation story, always loving when there is an item that is discovered that leads to a mystery that must be solved. We all have our stories, and I am a firm believer that everyone’s story should be told, that’s why I love stories like this so much, even if it is a work of fiction. It is because of this that I found a kindred spirit in Abigail, appreciating that she embodies the same feelings as mine.
The faith that is sprinkled throughout was appreciated, the characters realizing fears that were clenched tightly for so long, making me realize certain fears in my own life that need to be dealt with. I love when a story touches me like this, and never cease to be amazed at how the Lord truly uses all things for His good to reach His people.
I was really excited to see that this is the beginning of a new series, and can’t wait to see where the Prescott family adventures will take them, and us! The Glass Cottage was quite the adventure, with charming characters, entertaining banter, and a 100 year old mystery that will keep you enamored with every twist and turn.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I read through Kindle Unlimited for JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
The Glass Cottage is a debut novel for the author, Alyssa Schwarz, and with the tag of "A Prescott Family Romance #1," I think readers can eagerly expect at least a second in this new series. I enjoyed this cozy, small-town romance set in the Colorado mountains for several reasons. With present-day and late 1880s time frames, the novel is a dual-time story, a genre I thoroughly enjoy. Secondly, it is an inspirational romance. I liked how the characters actively lived out their faith, seeking help and guidance through prayers and encouraging conversations as they encountered challenges. I also enjoyed watching the romance between Abigail and Ben rekindle and develop as they work together to fix up the cottage and solve the mystery of an old journal. "Was it possible after all this time, God could have orchestrated their lives to cross once again for a reason?" The author did a great job, catching my interest right at the start with pretty much a literal cliff-hanger and then tied everything together so well at the end. Readers who enjoy historical romance will not want to miss reading The Glass Cottage. The author includes a Reader's Guide with discussion questions for book clubs or personal reflection. Also included is a recipe for Aunt Josies' Cranberry Apple pie. I read a complimentary copy of the book, given to me through JustRead Publicity Tours, and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
The Glass Cottage by Alyssa Schwarz is the debut novel for her. I always LOVE reading Debut novels for New Authors.
The Story is a Dual Timeline novel and I have really come to enjoy Dual timeline stories. A diary from 1883 found in an Attic is of great interest to Abagail Prescott. Abagail is helping her Aunt restore an old Antique Shop. An old childhood Friend of Abagail's, Benjamin Greene, is also helping her Aunt. Abagail had great interest in Ben in their childhood. Abagail really wants to find out more about the owner of the Journal, Iris and she embarks on that journey.
I truly enjoyed this book and all the Adventure and Romance within. Abagail and Ben are wonderful characters and watching them fall in love again as they work together in the shop was soo heartwarming. Abagail and Ben both have a strong faith and it is seen throughout the entire book. I must say that was very refreshing to see how well the author intertwined Faith and God in this book. The book is filled with some Twists and Turns. Historical, Christian faith, Adventure and Romance all make this a WONDERFUL Read! I am looking forward to more books from this series and Author!
I had the opportunity to critique several chapters from this book, so I looked forward to reading the entire novel. The Glass Cottage is a sweet contemporary romance with solid characterization and setting. It’s great for those who enjoy a slower pace. It’s not a time-slip novel but does give us glimpses into the past with journal entries by a young woman named Iris. Faith elements are included but are not necessarily deep, also the characters deal with some regrets from their past, but it’s not too in depth or intense either. There is an unexpected twist that I enjoyed that brought some depth to an overall predictable novel. I found the beginning chapters a little slow, but the story became more engaging once the main characters, Abigail, and Benjamin, began to interact. I would consider this a second chance romance. Overall, I enjoyed the story and recommend it to those who enjoy light, clean romances. Being a Coloradan myself, I especially enjoyed the setting, having visited some of the areas mentioned in the story. This is the debut novel of author Alyssa Schwartz.
The Glass Cottage was an uplifting dual-timeline story connecting the lives of two women across a century. I adored the characters of Abigail and Benjamin. They both had insecurities and flaws that they had to grow through over the course of their story and this growth was represented in what I felt was an extremely realistic and believable way. I found myself touched by their struggles and growth. I also, absolutely loved the spiritual content of the book.
As for the historical part of the book, I very much appreciated the way the author sprinkled in the historical timeline. Other novels of this genre I've read have split the timelines more 50/50, often trading off chapters, but Schwarz keeps the historical chapters much more sparse as we discover the mystery along with Abigail in the present day. I appreciated that structure.
It is so special to have gotten to read such a beautiful story. This book is reminiscent, whimsical, romantic, historical and hopeful. I felt like I got to meet a new friend in Abigail and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see how life turned out for her. I loved the pieces of history/the past that Alyssa Schwarz wove from beginning to end in this story as well- she kept me on my toes with every compelling twist and turn she wrote! If you're looking for an encouraging, uplifting, loving adventure then I don't think you need to look any further. I can't wait for the prequel, "Dear Beth" to come out!
Very Enjoyable Sweet Christian Romance-Historical Mystery
I really enjoyed this story! It has the perfect balance of past and present, romance and conflict, and Christian themes. Abigail and Ben's contemporary story feels natural and is so sweet. Iris' story from the late 1800s seems very well researched and incorporates a lot of history. I enjoyed the dives into geology as well. I like it when I learn new things from a novel, and Schwarz nailed it. I'm looking forward to more from The Prescott family and Alyssa Schwarz.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book that takes you away to a beautiful small town in Colorado where love, mystery, and adventure are in the air! If you delight in reading a creative story that weaves several story lines together, then this is the book you want to read!! From the opening pages to the last words you read, you will want to know what happened to Iris, Joel, Abigail, and Ben -- so pick up a copy and find out what all these characters have in common!!
Yes, Alyssa is a dear friend! But she is also one of the most talented, diligent people I know. She combines her love for Colorado, books, rocks and ... well... Love, in this sweet novel. Set in Buena Vista, Alyssa weaves in small descriptions and inside jokes that made me miss my home state. Definily give it a read if you want something that will cheer you up and look towards God.
This was such a sweet book! I really think Alyssa did so well on her debut novel and I enjoyed this love story about friends to more ❤️ Alyssa is a fabulous storyteller, but I do want to admit I wanted more depth and explanation on the split history side with Iris. I did especially enjoy the twist near the end as well. If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt, and uplifting cozy read, this is it!
The author did a great job of pulling together a plot with a mystery involving an 1800’s journal and the seeking of her place in it. Filled with spiritual insights and great character change.
I really enjoyed reading the Glass Cottage. Or is it Glas? ;) I loved how the author would bring Iris' story from the 19th century and tell it along with the modern couple. As they discovered her story, they develop their own.