Spunky octogenarian Priscilla Martin is a woman with many Christmas secrets. When a beloved niece tempts her to bare her wounded soul, Priscilla must decide whether to share the secret of her sister’s demise—and the reason she abandoned the man she loved in favor of a loveless marriage.
Camden, Maine ~ December, 1957
The only person Priscilla loves more than Ed Colton is her younger sister, Hazel. But when Ed is drafted and Hazel runs away to New York to be with a man she believes will make her famous, Priscilla’s plans crumble around her. Ed’s silence and Hazel’s tragic return leads Priscilla to make a choice she will forever regret.
Can revisiting long-ago memories give Priscilla what she’s longed for all these years?
This is Book 4 in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series, a contemporary twist on the well-loved classic, Little Women. Readers will fall in love with the Martin family—Maggie, Josie, Lizzie, Bronson, Amie, and their mother Hannah—each trying to find their own way in the world and each discovering that love, home, and hope are closer than they appear.
Heidi Chiavaroli is a hope-inspired storyteller writing from the deep curiosity of her own heart. Her debut novel, Freedom's Ring, was a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist, a Romantic Times Top Pick, and a Booklist Top Ten Romance Debut. Her second Carol Award-winning novel, The Orchard House, is inspired by the lesser-known events in Louisa May Alcott's life and led her to write The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series, a contemporary twist on Little Women. Her latest work, Draw Close to Jesus, is a fiction-based devotional inspired by Scripture and an ECPA bestseller. Heidi makes her home in Massachusetts with her husband and two adult sons. Visit her online at heidichiavaroli.com.
It was great to learn the background of prickly Aunt Pris. And a second chance at love at 82...what a sweet blessing.
The 1950s period details were neatly woven into the storyline. In addition to gaining details about Aunt Pris' young adult years, it was wonderful to also learn more about her dear friend Esther, Tripp's dad Ed and Amos's mom/Aunt Pris' sister Hazel.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary e-copy of the book. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
I knew Aunt Priscilla had a heartbreaker of a story behind her gruff outward appearance. Certainly life has toughened her up, but the reasoning behind it shows are heart willing to sacrifice for those she loves – as is evident by her allowing her family to set up a bed and breakfast in her stately home.
This novella follows Pris as she relives those early days of young love and family obligations – and how those things eventually prompted her to make a decision that changes the trajectory of her life. I loved the glimpse into her life, as well as other secondary characters from previous books in the series and the family’s history as a whole. And while it’s not too late for Pris to live happily with her family, perhaps it’s not too late for a second chance at love either.
I do recommend reading this one in its correct order. After getting to know her through the eyes of Josie, Maggie, and Lizzie, it meant more to hear from Aunt Pris herself.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; this review is my honest opinion.
I’m so pleased to introduce readers to my first Christmas novella, a dual timeline book featuring Aunt March’s parallel character in Little Women, Aunt Pris!
Let's face it...Aunt March isn't a lady to exactly write home about. She's a bit crotchety and has a sharp tongue, and yet there's something generous enough in her for her to leave her home to Jo after her death. What events in her life caused her to hold such a hard-to-love personality? Or was this simply the character she was born with?
I had tons of fun writing Aunt March's parallel character, Aunt Pris, in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series. Priscilla shares some qualities with Aunt March, and I looked forward to diving into her history in this story.
I hope you can cuddle up with some hot chocolate or tea and maybe read this one by the light of the Christmas tree! Most of all, I hope you enjoy!
I loved this novella! It was such a sweet story about second chances! I also loved getting to read a little bit more about the Orchard House crew! I can’t wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Oh my goodness! What a fantastic little novella. I was really hoping that we'd get to hear more of Aunt Pris's story. If you haven't read the first three books in this series, I highly recommend doing so. It'll make this story much clearer. But it's not completely necessary to enjoy it. Thank you, Ms. Chiavaroli, for giving us more of Aunt Pris!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
This series is touching my heart, and this novella was so poignant. I am so glad I got to know crotchety Aunt Pris and her backstory. It just shows you don’t truly know what someone has been through, and how satisfying to see her find love and get her own HEA :). Lovely read!
Oh my what a sweet tale of sacrifice and love. Told in the past and present by a young and an old Aunt Pris. This sweet Christmas novella had me in tears. In a good way. I highly recommend Where Memories Await by Heidi Chiavaroli. I'm loving this Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series!!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
This was a great dual timeline Christmas novella in the Orchard House bed and breakfast series. This one is probably best read as part of the series. While the story itself stands alone, since it's a novella, much of the history of the prior books comes into play in this one and reading the prior books makes Aunt Pris's story more meaningful as we have come to know her as the family's "old grump". For fans of the series who have wondered about Aunt Pris's story, we get a fuller picture of the choices she made early in life that have shaped who she is today. As the author is well known for her dual timelines outside of this series, the writing is seamless in its transitions and pulls together a full picture of the past and present of Priscilla's life. Though it was a short read, the story is full of character development and emotion. I definitely cried a time or two and my heart went out to the character I've not understood at all previous to this. I enjoyed learning more about the history of the Martin family, and thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas elements. This was a book about forgiveness and second chances, as well as tough choices and sacrificial love. The faith thread was solid as well. This may be my favorite in the series so far! I would definitely recommend to fans of the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series, fans of Christmas stories, and fans of dual timeline stories. Special thanks to the author for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
Where Memories Await by Heidi Chiavaroli is an excellent dual timeline fictional novella that is the latest in the amazing series titled: An Orchard House Bed and Breakfast (the first being Where Grace Appears).
This time, the author takes us into the character of Aunt Pris (Priscilla) Martin and helps us to understand why she has made the decisions she has made, right or wrong, and how she has come to be the woman she is today. She weaves us a tale between current day and when Pris was a younger woman.
Such fundamental concepts of love, loss, family, difficult decisions, faith tested, and strength of character are explored as we get to find out another side of the Martin family and its history.
This is a beautiful story and a great addition to this series. The Christmas background really adds another wonderful layer to this truly memorable novella.
5/5 stars
Thank you to the author for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, and Instagram accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/16/21.
Where Memories Await is a Christmas novella to accompany the Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series by Heidi Chiavaroli. This story gives us the touching backstory behind Aunt Pris’s frosty yet lovable personality. Through the other books in the series, we learned Priscilla Martin had a past she’d rather forget, a past that was painful and secret. But in this novella, we learn the secrets behind such a strong and enduring woman. The themes of hope and redemption are perfect for the holiday season, and this shorter-length story is perfect for a busy time of the year. But the length of the story doesn’t mean it isn’t full of depth and a perfect continuation of the Martin family’s story. The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast is a continuing series, so I would recommend reading from the beginning. If you are a fan of Little Women, do not miss this contemporary spin on the March family. I can’t wait to read Bronson’s story next! I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Where Memories Await, by Heidi Chiavaroli, is the fourth book in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series. From beginning to end, this dual-timeline novella is very special. Well-written and touching, it offers a moving story of faith, friendship, family, and second chances.
The compelling plot alternates easily between two points in time, one in the past and one in the present. These storylines find connections in scenes of family, loss, longing, friendship, hope, and redemption. Throughout the novel, the characters show themselves to be thoughtful, resilient, and determined. Their experiences and choices are interesting and thought-provoking. Though they are challenged by events that test their assumptions and threaten their dreams, their faith endures. Even when facing significant disappointment and heartbreak, their tenacity and fortitude is inspiring. This novella is thoughtful and meaningful. The story is especially captivating as the characters find the courage to reflect on their past and open themselves to new possibilities in the present. While the characters pursue healing and restoration, themes of love and grace are explored making this story truly uplifting and memorable. Where Memories Await features an appealing plot, relatable characters, and important themes. It is a thoughtful story full of meaning and heart. I happily recommend this creative, inspirational novella, and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. *I was given a copy of this book from the author/publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
Where Memories Await is the fourth book in Heidi Chivaroli’s Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series. This Christmas novella tells Aunt Pris’s story.
Aunt Pris, who is similar to Aunt March in Louisa May Allcott’s Little Women, seems like a hard woman on the surface and this story shows why. I thought it perfect that Josie is the one to get Aunt Pris to tell her own story.
Aunt Pris has had a very difficult life, so it could be a challenge to read, especially for some. However, I loved this little novella and the sweet ending gives all the holiday feels. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series so far and can’t wait for Bronson’s story in Book Five.
— I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
Having read the previous three books in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series, I was curious about Aunt Pris' backstory. Why was she so crotchety and was there something in the past between her and Ed, Tripp's grandfather? My questions were answered and were surprising to me. I knew this book was novella length but it still seemed I was finished reading much too quickly. As in the other books, the author deals with some sensitive subjects but shows how God's love provides hope. I'm looking forward to more books in this series. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
I recently read a book called Where Memories Await by Heidi Chiavaroli. It's the fourth book in the Orchard Bed and Breakfast seried. This is the story of Priscilla Martin, an eighty two year old aunt, the oldest living of the Martin family. In previous books I always thought that she was just a crotchety old lady but this book tells the story of her life. She was once young and in love but circumstances beyond her control intervened and changed the course of her life. If you're curious as to what happened you must read this book. It will change your perception of Priscilla as it did mind. Will there be a HEA? Read for yourself!!
Where Memories Await by Heidi Chiavaroli was a tender, emotionally rich novella that blends past and present as Priscilla confronts the long-buried secrets that shaped her life.
Reading it felt poignant and intimate- Readers are pulled into both Priscilla’s 1957 heartbreak and her present-day courage as she finally shares her story.
The dual timeline added real depth, showing how grief, regret, and love intertwine across generations.
It was incredibly moving to watch Priscilla find healing and a late-in-life happily-ever-after!
“Whatever you’ve been through, wherever you’re going, God is with you. He brought you back here!” - Hazel 💌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Sometimes the thing you have held hidden close to your heart for decades just begs for release. What will that release bring? Aunt Priss has found that she can no longer clutch the memories, they are sifting through fingers too tired to hold them now. The shame, the guilt, the sorrow, the joy escape and now, all who are near to her know her deepest secret. Do yourself a favor. Read the books previous to this one in the series for fullest impact. All of them are great!
I read the first four books in The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series. Heidi Chiavaroli does an amazing job creating distinct characters, each with their own set of strengths, fears, sins, weaknesses, and victories. Even the love stories for each of the female protagonists were vastly different and equaling engaging. Another plus: This author is skilled at intertwining the stories (and updating the readers) WITHOUT resorting to repetition, long explanations, or adding an obvious synopsis. Bravo, Ms. Chiavaroli! Can't wait for the next one!
Aunt Pris's bittersweet story is a beautiful Christmas novella. Getting a glimpse into her past in this dual-timeline story was such a treat. I loved how questions were answered that were in the back of my mind since book one. The theme of sweet, self-sacrificing love of one sister toward the other permanently endeared Pris to me. I also appreciated the subtle but very well-portrayed thread of God's love for all life no matter how it was conceived. The secondary characters, Beatrice and Esther, added so much to the story. And Ed, what a great guy!!
This was the best book so far in the series. I loved it, not just because it was about a character named Priscilla, but because of the character herself - an 82-year-old woman who seems like an old curmudgeon, but who truly has a heart of gold that was broken 60 years earlier. By telling her story, it brings healing, not only to herself but to all those who love her, even one lost love who still loves her!! The dual timeline ALWAYS holds my interest in a book. Heidi Chiavaroli is one of my favorite authors!!
In this tale, readers learn the background story of Priscilla Martin. She is in love with Eddie, but she marries another man, and readers will finally find out why. Vacillating from 1957 to the present day, Aunt Priscilla reveals her long hidden secrets. This story adds many interesting details to this wonderful series, and will delight regular readers. Aunt Priscilla becomes much more likable as we understand the reasons behind her actions. It’s a well-written and much needed addition to the series.
I have really enjoyed this Little Women inspired series. In this novella we finally get Aunt Pris's story and we learn why she is so crotchety. I really enjoyed this quick read. It was short but written from the perspective of Aunt Pris really brought it to life. Definitely a worthwhile Christmas read. The theme of family and sacrifices we make for family was one that will resonate with many people.
This little novella gives the history of the Martin family and it’s heartbreaking. Even I love Josie and Tripp together and even though I am thrilled when people come back to one another I am always sad for the time lost. Stolen. Maybe it’s cause it strikes too close to home. Poor Aunt Pris. What an awful hand she was dealt. Even when she did what was right she was seemingly punished.
Enjoyed this time-slip Christmas story. Her choices made because of family pressures left a huge broken place in Pris' heart. She carried her burden for 60+ years. Finally telling her story brings a restoration she never imagined.
And what can I say? Once again you kept me pulled in. And I cried like a baby. I could hear these characters and their stories, their troubles and triumphs I could feel, the joy of finding LOVE, HOPE and FAITH were always present. I love your writing!
I wanted it to be longer! Yes, those events started Pris’ brusque attitude, but surely it wasn’t one and done! I wanted the falling in love with Ed, not the already in love with Ed. I wanted the married life. But it’ll do, I suppose.
Short and sweet. I don't love novellas, and I would've loved it if this story would've been a bit longer... even so, I loved it. I loved reading Aunt Pris' story.
I look forward to reading the next book in this sweet series.
This is another of the wonderfully written books in the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series! Heidi Chi a stop I is quite a gifted author. I certainly recommend this book.
It was really nice to read about Aunt Pris and hear her story. It's a sad one but it shows that under her prickles she is a selfless soul who is loyal to her family. It also is good to see that second chances can happen and forgiveness is healing.