Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Aprons & Veils #1

The Finding of Miss Fairfield

Rate this book
When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .

Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.

Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather's business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will.

284 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2022

415 people are currently reading
4191 people want to read

About the author

Grace Hitchcock

25 books1,011 followers
Grace Hitchcock is an award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives near New Orleans with her husband, Dakota, sons and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
325 (50%)
4 stars
203 (31%)
3 stars
87 (13%)
2 stars
20 (3%)
1 star
9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
Profile Image for Paula Shreckhise.
1,531 reviews137 followers
August 12, 2022
Oh the conventions of the upper class in the 1800s! Business deals instead of a love match has socialite Sophia traveling way out west to be a Harvey Girl. At least that was a respectable vocation. And a lot of hard work that Sophia was not used to but found rewarding. She is running away from Prescott, a business partner of her father and a man twice her age. She is also running from the feelings she has for his stepson, Carver Ashton.
Danger follows her to New Mexico at a Harvey Restaurant. Her faith in God sustains her as she tries to figure out a way to honor God and marry the one she loves.
I liked the way Sophia befriended the other girls and did not let her wealth or station in life hold her back from helping others. It was interesting to see how the Harvey Girls worked and lived.
Carver was a caring hero who learned to stand up for himself and go after what he wanted. The villains were well drawn, a mixture of seeming kindness and selfishness. But their true colors came out, greed being their motivation.
This was a step back in history when life was not as simple as we might think. Ms. Hitchcock captures the atmosphere of 1899 perfectly.
*I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Jennifer.
153 reviews36 followers
August 18, 2022
What an amazing start to a new series by Grace Hitchcock!

The Finding of Miss Fairfield will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride, to be sure. Grace Hitchcock weaves together a tale filled with heartache, betrayal, true love, fantastic friendships, and so much more! I'm rather (im)patiently awaiting the second novel in this series!

If you love novels by Rachel Fordham or Tamera Alexander, I'm confident you'll love The Finding of Miss Fairfield as well!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Sydney.
1,083 reviews130 followers
September 19, 2023
Readers will adore this Harvey Girl’s rendition of The Ugly Duckling from author Grace Hitchcock. It’s about a young woman, Sophia, coming to know herself better by being determined, strong, and brave. An arranged marriage with a much older man, running away, falling in love with her supposed “step-son”, getting kidnapped, this story is filled with plenty of action with various situations and scenes. It’s also fun to get to know and see how The Harvey Girl’s operation was run. This is a fabulous historical romance that readers will thoroughly enjoy. Also, readers who enjoy the musical The Harvey Girls with Judy Garland, they will also love this story!



Series: Aprons & Veils
Genre: historical, romance, Harvey Girls
Publisher: Valmont House Publishers
Publication date: August 29, 2023
Number of pages: 286
Content warning:romance - just kissing; mild moments of danger/peril/shooting

Other books in the series:
2-The Pursuit of Miss Parish

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Tara Savanna.
145 reviews16 followers
August 15, 2022
Really loved reading this! Enjoyed the fast, exciting pacing if the story that just kept me turning the pages. The main character went through so much it was heartbreaking. Loved watching her character grow!

While this was a clean read, there are a few kisses, some of them forced by the antagonist who wants to "wed and bed" (actual term used in the book) the main character to grow his fortune.

**I was given a free copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Dana Michael.
1,401 reviews180 followers
August 29, 2022
The Finding Of Miss Fairfield is a fun and light read. I enjoyed the romp from Charleston to New Mexico and finally ending in New Orleans. I loved learning about the Harvey Girls in this romantic tale of a young lady fleeing from an arranged marriage into falling in love with her fiancée's stepson. The second half of the book is my favorite. I look forward to reading the entire series.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,539 reviews177 followers
March 16, 2023
An enjoyable start to a new series by Grace Hitchcock! This is a little different from her previous American Royalty series and explores a new aspect of history. From South Carolina, to New Mexico, to New Orleans, we follow the journey of a wealthy young woman as she flees from an arranged marriage and finds love and a new confidence in herself and her faith.

On the verge of a new century, Sophia Fairfield finds herself engaged to her father’s much older, twice widowed business partner. It’s a marriage she doesn’t want, but agrees to. When her fiancé leaves her in the company of his stepson Carver while he’s away for several weeks, Sophia begins to fall in love with the handsome, charming young man. With no other options, and seeing no way for them to be together, she flees to New Mexico and becomes a Harvey girl.

With no experience and coming from a wealthy family, Sophia struggles at first in her new position. But, with new friends, and a new found confidence in herself and her faith, she begins to thrive. Trouble isn’t far behind though and she must use all her ingenuity to keep the love she’s longed for.

Loved Carver and Sophia! Loved their chemistry and shared love of poetry. I enjoyed the way they encouraged each other and how they both grew throughout the story. Under the thumb of his controlling stepfather, Carver finds the courage to strike out on his own. Sophia finds new abilities and friends as a Harvey girl. There’s not one but two villains who pose a threat to their happiness which adds some suspense to the story. I enjoyed the historical aspects and learning more about the Harvey girls. There’s a great author’s note at the end I recommend reading that shares more about the history aspects.

It’s a fun, romantic, suspenseful story with a touch of faith that really drew me in. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased a copy. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Profile Image for Lynda.
1,224 reviews35 followers
August 26, 2022
This book is not about a rich young woman fleeing to the west as a mail-order bride.

Poor Miss Fairfield. Her father makes her a pawn in his business by a betrothal to a man, twice a widower, his business partner. You’ll dislike him immediately and well you should. The cad leaves town and asks his stepson to “look after” Sophia. The setting: Charleston, SC. The time: February 1899.

And you can guess what happens between Carver and Sophia. Carver’s stepfather threatens to ruin him financially. Unable to get her parents to change their minds. and seeing there was no way to stop the wedding, Sophia flees Charleston and becomes a Harvey Girl waitress in Las Vegas, New Mexico at the Castañeda Hotel.

My review …
Sophia was a Charleston, South Carolina daughter of wealthy parents; she is a socialite. She loves poetry and would rather read than attend balls, teas, et al. Carver Ashton, Prescott Payne’s (the cad's – and I’m being nice) stepson is handsome and has future plans which do *not* include going into the “family” business. He did not mean to fall in love with Sophia — but he did.

There really was …
[a picture of the Castañeda Hotel, Las Vegas, NM in the early 1900s inserted] 1
Traveling home from college, I remember the bus stopping for a meal at the Harvey House. Having little money, I think I had a fried egg, toast, and coffee. The point of that memory is the Harvey Houses were real. And so was the Castañeda Hotel1 and it WAS in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Maybe my ancestor who lived there saw it? Ate there?

I enjoyed this book. Sophia, to use a 20th-century phrase, “finds herself” as a Harvey House waitress. Carver is a man you, the reader, will like. I’m hoping Sophia’s maid shows up in Las Vegas, NM in a later book. She has guts. I rate The Finding of Miss Fairfield a solid four (4) stars. Oh, be sure to read the short “Author’s Notes” at the end of the book.

I received a complimentary e-ARC copy of The Finding of Miss Fairfield via NetGalley from the publisher, Valmont House Publisher. A positive review was not required; the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Castañeda Hotel still exists and while no longer owned by the railroad, it has been renovated after being closed for 70 years. See https://castanedahotel.org which has some pictures of the hotel in its heyday.

Rating: 4 stars
#TheFindingofMissFairfield #NetGalley #GraceHitchcock
————————————————————-

1. Photo source: Harvey Houses.net, New Mexico. Photo courtesy [to that site from] Fred Harvey Collection, Cline Library, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff AZ. NOTE: Information about the Castañeda is *NOT* valid. Page last updated 11-Jun-2007.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,892 reviews136 followers
July 29, 2022
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves historical Christian fiction.
I thought this was a cute read with Sophia as the lead protagonist.
I enjoyed getting to know her and I loved her personality.
There were some wonderful inspirational messages that I very much appreciated.
Didn't care much for the bad guys but without them there wouldn't be a story or lessons to teach.
I absolutely love this quote.
"I'm not even afraid out here in the Wild West because I know that I'm under the protection of the Lord Jesus. I know that Jesus loves me.
Profile Image for Nikita Wells.
223 reviews37 followers
August 28, 2024
A great start to a neat Western series!

Loved this exciting start to the Aprons and Veils series! It's ironic that I've ended up reading the first book last, but the way they're written, they don't have to be read in order though the characters connect from book to book.

Negative content: the only thing here is that the word fool was used a few times. Other than that, this book was a squeaky clean read.
Profile Image for Elly.
138 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2023
This was my first novel by Author Grace Hitchcock and I enjoyed it very much! Both Carver’s and Sophia’s stories of learning to have courage and lean on God alone for your needs were inspiring. The characters were very likable and entertaining to read and I LOVED the Harvey sisters! Things picked up a lot approaching the end of the book and it got pretty intense very quickly! I can’t wait to read some more about these and other characters and am eagerly awaiting the next book in the Aprons & Veils series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but a positive review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa Wardwell.
Author 20 books938 followers
March 28, 2023
The Finding of Miss Fairfield is a harrowing story of the bravery and gumption that socialite, Sophia Fairfield, shows in order to achieve her dreams and how beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Being the last daughter to merry, Sophia is determined to do things her way, but the decision of her father and his business partner throws a wrench in her plans. Then, in walks the dashing Carver.
Sophia seems to have been told she is the “ugly duckling” of the family her whole life but I found myself hoping she would see the beauty within her was much more alluring than what her sisters and friends external beauty held. I’m sure it was a social norm of the time, but she had already proven her abilities as a teacher and touter.
When she sends that fateful telegram – I cheered for her on the inside. “Go get it, girl!” but I don’t know if I could be as brave.
Carver, if the imagery the author had for this character is half as handsome and noble as the name displays–well, he is the perfect hero. “Chivalry will not die with me”, he tells her and I admit, I let out a sigh (though, it was a little wheezy since I am fighting a spring cold).
I know without a show of a doubt that if I want a nice, leisurely story, I can count on Grace Hitchcock to provide it. I have never been disappointed in reading one of her books. I think I could safely say that she is one author I will always read.
*** The publisher gave me a copy of this book through NetGalley and CelebrateLit Publicities. A positive review was not required.
Profile Image for Becky of Becky's Bookshelves .
726 reviews98 followers
August 11, 2022
The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock is the first in the Aprons & Veils series. Sophia has been told she is marrying a man twice her age by her father for business reasons . His stepson, Carver, is in charge of taking care of her while he is away. Sophia knows she can not live the life that is planned for her, and Carter is someone she wished she had met first.

Carver is a wonderful hero who you love rooting for. Sophia is such an interesting character who has to decide what she wants in life, if she is willing to take risks, and what she will do to make her life happen. It was a pleasure to watch her grow and change in this character driven story.

This charming read takes us from Charleston, South Carolina, to Las Vegas Mexico and back to New Orleans. I enjoyed learning about the Harvey Girls, traveling across the country by train, and about women living in 1899. The author has written a delightful read with a touch of mystery and intrigue. I enjoyed this story and recommend it.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
Profile Image for Faith.
2,197 reviews
August 16, 2022
A delightful and engaging read, filled with adventure and romance!

Sophia Fairfield has always played by the rules following the path her parents have laid out for her, that is until they arrange a marriage to a man twice her age. How can she go along with the marriage when her heart is swiftly being won by someone else?

A wonderful read that once picked up I didn't want to put down. I admired Sophia for her kindness and willingness to learn attitude, taking on new challenges head on. She has a big heart for others, and I liked how she quickly made friends among the other young women despite her different upbringing. Carver is a noble man, and I liked that he saw Sophia and liked her for who she was, and not as a means to an end like the others, and was willing to fight for her.

This was such a fun read, filled with faith, adventure, friendship and love. Highly entertaining, with likable protagonists that have you cheering for them all the way through, you won't want to miss this wonderful new romance from Grace Hitchcock!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer).
1,466 reviews55 followers
September 12, 2023
The Finding of Miss Fairfield is a Christian Historical Fiction novel in the new series called, Aprons & Veils. It is set in Charleston, South Carolina, 1899. Sophia comes from a wealthy family, has many siblings, and unfortunately is an old maid who hasn't wed yet. She finds herself in a precarious situation where she is being forced to wed an older gentleman who has already been married twice. As her "fiance" leaves town for a while, his stepson, Carver, steps in to watch her and keep her company. It was not surprising that they fell for each other.

I love the bravery and determination of Sophia to leave a bad situation behind, especially for the time period this story takes place. She heads to Las Vegas, New Mexico to become a Harvey Girl. Just in case you're wondering what a Harvey Girl was, here is the info I found.



The Harvey Girls Defined Hospitality in the Wild West of the 1880s. More specifically, they were young, single, intelligent women who were also of “good character,” and, presumably, had the sort of sense of adventure that propelled them to unknown territory in the 1880s to work as waitresses.




I found the Harvey Girls very fascinating for this time period. It's funny I haven't heard about them before. There were many characters that added so much to the story from determined Sophia to the ever faithful Carver. The Harvey Girls that Sophia met also had some great characters from Nora, all the way to the overbearing Dolly. It was a great look at working women in the late 1800's.

The villains of course were there and very evil. It's not often that there are two equally nefarious characters that keep things moving in the story. Of course, there is a sweet romance that I loved between Sophia and Carver. They definitely fought hard for their love. There is also a beautiful theme of believing in God and asking for his help. The faith-building in this novel is there but not overbearing. It all fits perfectly in this novel about Miss Fairfield and how she finds herself and her love by sticking to her convictions and believing in herself.
Profile Image for Lucy.
1,160 reviews117 followers
August 29, 2022
A great beginning to the Aprons and Veils series that will draw you into the historical Harvey Girls period. I find it fascinating to read about how different women were treated by their fathers in marriage bargains to have financial gain. Enter Sophia with grit and determination to marry for love even if it means leaving her family and privileged lifestyle behind. With a prayer on her lips she learns to work hard and become independent in New Mexico. The villains in this story add intrigue to the story and keeps you turning pages to see the outcome. Great characters and a flowing storyline with faith intricately woven in. I was immersed and didn’t want it to end. A delightful book that I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Profile Image for Laura.
3,240 reviews101 followers
August 19, 2022
Wealth makes right in this romance set in the Gilded Age. Or at least that is what the Antagonist , Prescott, of this story thinks. He, twice a widow, is determined to merry Sophia Fairfield, against her will. But because he is the business partner, of Sophia's father, he sees no disadvantages in it.

With a little bit of Christian faith thrown in, and a whole lot of coincidences worthy of a Dickens novel, Sophia manages to escape to New Mexico to become a Harvey Girl, which was a series of restaurants in the west, that followed the railroads, and gave young women a respectable way to make a living. The Dickens part is that although she managed to run away without being found, at first, the sheriff happens to be related to Prescott.

Good atmosphere, and other than the coincidences, a pleasant enough story, though I guessed some of what was going to happen, and wanted to shout at Sophia not to do it.

Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
Profile Image for Linda Klager.
1,019 reviews48 followers
March 5, 2023
Sophia Fairfield's father wants her to marry a man who will help aid the family business. Sophia wants to marry for love.

Carver Ashton is the stepson of the man that Sophia is being forced to marry. He becomes Sophia's companion when the stepfather attends business out of town.

Sophia and Carver are very suited for each other. They develop a great friendship and that leads to much more.

Sophia gets a chance to run away to become a Harvey Girl in New Mexico. Sophia has never done any work because her family had money and hired servants. Sophia needed to learn a lot to keep her job as a Harvey Girl. She viewed these girls as family, but one girl, in particular, was threatened when her boyfriend ignored her and was very attracted to Sophia. This caused a lot of problems for Sophia.

Grace Hitchcock really knows how to tell a wonderful story!

I love stories of the women who worked as waitresses for train travelers years ago. They were respectable and hard-working girls.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,626 reviews
August 10, 2022
What a fun story! I enjoyed this historical romance that has danger and bad guys to contend with. Sophia and Carver are wonderful characters and there's a fine cast of supporting characters to round out the story. I really loved how Sophia grows over the course of the story and how brave and strong she becomes when she has to fight back against the bad guys. The ending is quite exciting, and perfect for the story. I am looking forward to more of this series.

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Miss Pippi the Librarian.
2,747 reviews60 followers
September 14, 2023
Wow! What an adventurous and action-packed story about a socialite turned Harvey Girl! There were some twists and turns that were quite unexpected as Sophia Fairfield aka Miss Sophia Bird made a run for it to start a new life. It's you're looking for more than just a western romance, check out The Finding of Miss Fairfield. It's an adventure from Charleston to Las Vegas to New Orleans. There's lost family and found family. It does wrap up in a happily ever after. I would also love to hear Sophia's friend Nora's story.

Bookish love ...
- Harvey Girls
- Trusting the Lord
- Carver
- Finding your strength
- Nora
- Love of poetry
- Walk in power not in fear

Reviewed from a gift copy. Thank you, Grace!
All opinions are my own.
154 reviews20 followers
July 29, 2022
It reminds me first of the movie fiddler on the roof. The daughter really doesn't want to marry at first. Sophia decide to go to New Mexico to start over so.she went to.start a new job there too she left there to become a waitress that is her new job.
Carver came to see Sophia where she lives now she even had to tell.soneone who she was. He was her ex fiancé son.
Carver likes Sophia now. Carver asked Sophia to marry him.abd of course she said yes.
This book was approved by netgalley and the publisher.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
971 reviews106 followers
August 29, 2022
The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock is a sweet story with an exciting adventure. Sophia Fairfield is desperate to escape an arranged marriage. She has absolutely no say in marrying someone she doesn't even like, who is twice her age. Sadly, her birthday party turns into a betrothal party. When her fiance has to travel for business, his stepson is tasked with keeping her company.

"Her father may intend for her to marry the man, but she would find an escape, one way or another."

"There could be worse ways to spend my time than with an intelligent woman."
"He had not laughed this much in months. His task was going to be far pleasanter than he anticipated......a fact that was rather disconcerting."

"Men don't really sit around and talk about their favorite colors."
"My stepfather is a fool for ignoring you." "Carver's fists tightened. She was so much more than a pretty face, more than a bargaining chip."

"After a few hours under his thoughtful care, her heart was very much in danger."
"I long to fly, but I am caught in a cage forced by society and propriety."

As she's fleeing to avoid marriage and a scandal, she remembers wise words from her Grandmother: "You will never be alone when He is by your side, remember the second book of Timothy, child." Her adventures gain her friends and teach her many lessons.

A compelling historical fiction tale that had me turning pages.

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own!
Profile Image for RD.
809 reviews18 followers
August 9, 2025
An entertaining story for a clean, light read. The strength of this book is the well-developed characters, who are each delightfully unique. Sophia and Carver develop a pretty instant connection, (that’s both good and a little trite), and their romance is sweet. Sophia’s poor relationship with her father is an over-used element, as is the man marrying her for her dowry, but it serves to add conflict to the story. Kane’s grudge against Carver however, is confusing and unfounded.

I enjoyed Sophia’s journey of discovering that her strength and courage are found with God. Sophia says: “Out here, I didn’t have anyone but my Harvey sisters and Christ to rely on, and because He is my protector, I’m not afraid, or alone.” She laughed. “Can you believe it? I’m not afraid even out here in the Wild West because at last I know I am under the protection of the Lord. I know Jesus loves me for me…” I also enjoyed the inside look at what it was like to be a Harvey Girl. Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Profile Image for Jeanette Durkin.
1,576 reviews49 followers
July 26, 2022
If you like Christian fiction with drama, true love and intrigue this is the book for you! It portrays subject matters such as being true to yourself, trusting God and to follow your dreams.

The first couple of paragraphs really grabbed my attention and I also found myself drawn to the main character, Sophia. She finds herself in a dire predicament and she's desperate for a way out. "I long to fly, but I am caught in a cage forged by society and propriety. I am only good for singing my despondent songs of things lost and only exist to entertain all that look upon me." Forced to marry Prescott, a man twice her age, Sophia's heart longs for adventure and true love. She would never imagine that she would be attracted to her soon to be stepson , Carver. "it was getting harder and harder not to think of him as more than what she should. Heaven save her from her traitorous heart." Alas, they cannot pursue their relationship without causing a scandal and financial ruin for Sophia's family. Seeing no way out of the impending marriage Sophia flees to a new life as a Harvey Girl in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Carver leaves everything to find Sophia so that he can declare his love. Meanwhile, Sophia's learning how to work and earn her own money. She in content with her new life. Carver finds her and they declare their love for each other. Prescott refuses to let Sophia go and vows to marry Sophia no matter what. Sophia goes to New Orleans after receiving a telegram from Carver. To her dismay, Prescott shows up at her hotel. He tries to force her into marrying him. She refuses to be threatened by him, "My God will protect me and you cannot harm me... you may think you have all the power in this room but you are no match for Him."

Disclosure- I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review.
See more of my reviews on my blog at 40jrd.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Cover Lover Book Review.
1,466 reviews86 followers
March 12, 2023
The Finding of Miss Fairfield is a compelling, eventful story with interesting characters. I liked Sophia and empathized with her immediately. I can’t imagine living during a time that women were treated so poorly. Being promised to someone I didn’t choose myself would be horrendous.

I like how Sophia shows growth throughout the story and learned to lean on God’s grace and strength. And Carver is so loyal and true. I rooted for both, even when things looked dire. I must admit there were some bad guys I wished I could give a good shaking.

This story has a healthy blend of good characters, bad characters, obstacles, and blessings. It’s a fast read with lots of depth and emotion. I learned a lot about the Harvey Girls and loved the opportunity opened for Sophia at just the right appointed time.

First Line: Sophia Fairfield’s heart skipped at the sight of Mother holding a damp handkerchief to her eyes as Father and his business partner, Prescott Payne, stood before the floor-length windows facing Charleston harbor with their heads together, speaking in low somber tones over the crackling of the fireplace.
Series: Aprons and Veils book 1
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Author: Grace Hitchcock
Page Count: 286

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Profile Image for BlueJeansAndTeacups.
670 reviews24 followers
August 13, 2022
Not one, not two, but THREE villains! 😱

I adore a good Harvey House story. Reading about the historic restaurant is a topic that fascinates me and The Finding of Miss Fairfield, Apron & Veils book #1 set in New Mexico, 1899, was no different. I always appreciate the faith elements that elevate a story and Grace Hitchcock does a wonderful job weaving them into her stories.
Favorite Quote: “Even the devil can quote scripture to suit his purposes.”

In her challenging escape, Sophia grows in courage and gumption and I quite liked her character and that of the kindly Carver Ashton. He is not the perfect hero, but that made him all the more real. Carver disliked Earl Grey tea. RESPECT! I can’t stand that perfumed-tasting stuff! Blegh!

I look forward to the next installment, The Pursuit of Miss Parish coming May, 2023.

Other Quotes I enjoyed:
2. “Lord, give me direction. Send me someone else! Or give me a way out of this marriage.”
3. “To borrow a line from Keats, ‘I love you the more in that I believe you have liked me for my own sake and for nothing else.’”
4. “And you should include a little tea salon where the husbands or wives… can take their refreshments and also have a wall of only the best novels to entice them to linger and order cup after cup of expensive tea!”
5. “…when I come to New Orleans to see your shop, I will want to take tea and order a stack of books.”
6. A birdcage with a tiny gold finch caught her eye. She paused at the window display, her fingers splaying against the cool glass. “I know how you feel,” she whispered.
7. “You are essentially having tea with your sugar.” Life is short, and let’s be honest, tea is better with sugar, especially when it smells rather medicinal in nature.”
8. Jenny sighed. “And this is the part where I fear we might lose any new Harvey Girl. The bowls of water deters scorpions from climbing into our beds.” Sophia’s jaw dropped. “Excuse me?” “Scorpions.”

I am honored to have been chosen to be on the Launch Team. Thank you Grace.
I read this eBook without compensation or expectation. All opinions are mine alone. 4 Stars.
Profile Image for Carolyn Bryant.
906 reviews79 followers
July 29, 2022
With this intriguing, romantic read, Ms. Hitchcock kicks off her Aprons and Veils series. Set in 1899 in Charleston, Las Vegas, and New Orleans, this story grabbed me from the beginning and held me fast all the way to the satisfying ending. The well-structured, multi-layered plot flows fluidly with some surprises along the way. The well-drawn characters are diverse—some I loved (especially the charming hero and heroine Carter and Sophia), some I did not care for at all, and some I changed my mind about in the end. I love stories featuring the pioneering Harvey Girls. I was delighted with the way Ms. Hitchcock used her extensive research and excellent writing skills to bring alive the world of the Harvey Girls and the historical Castaneda Hotel, thus adding authenticity to this fictional tale. Wonderfully unfolding, sweet romance and an encouraging faith thread complete the enjoyment of the read. I loved this story and highly recommend it especially for inspirational historical romance fans. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thought and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa.
403 reviews27 followers
August 7, 2022
The Finding of Miss Fairfield is an adventurous historical romance that's quite enjoyable! Sophia Fairfield is determined to escape an arranged marriage with a man old enough to be her father and show her family that she's capable of more than they ever thought possible. When her intended asks his stepson to watch over Sophia while he's out of town, more than he anticipates occurs between the two of them. Much more suited to her age and personality, Sophia and Carver begin a friendship that could obviously become more. The two must balance societal expectations while realizing they are beginning to have feelings for one another.

I really appreciated much about this story! Sophia's fears of disappointing her parents as well as those around her. But it was a lovely surprise when she takes her future into her own hands and goes where she only has God to lean on. I also enjoyed Carver and his desire to keep Sophia's reputation intact, but also desiring a relationship with her. Their growing friendship to more makes for a very fun read! There are many twists and turns and much adventure in this story to keep a reader turning pages!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Christi.
1,158 reviews34 followers
September 11, 2023
There is something so great about starting a new series, especially in my favorite genre. Being introduced to new characters and a new world is always so refreshing, and The Finding of Miss Fairfield was a wonderful start to a new series.

An unsavory betrothal puts Sophia Fairchild in an unpleasant predicament that she can’t seem to find an escape from until she takes a chance and embarks on a journey across the country to fight for her freedom. Carver is tasked with looking out for Sophia, but when she disappears he makes it his mission to find her. What neither of them expect is the challenges they will both face on this journey into the unknown.

It’s clear these two have an incredible connection from the start and the more you witness their interactions the more obvious that these two are truly meant for one another. The more time Carver and Sophia spend together the more I hoped beyond hope that they would end up together. They each bring out a sunshine in the other that is a beauty to behold and was a joy to read.

The novel has a strong start but slowed down substantially in the middle only to ramp back up in a climactic ending. Normally this would be a negative to me, but the slower pace matched perfectly with the laidback feel of Las Vegas, New Mexico and it gives the reader a chance to really get to know the inhabitants of this western town, as well as the ladies of Harvey’s. I did wish that the ending wouldn’t have felt as rushed but other than that it was a happily ever after that was pleasing, despite it being predicable.

I loved this novel so much that I immediately started reading the second book in the series and it is just as marvelous as this novel was! The world is so vibrant, a place that you can easily lose yourself in, and the characters lovable and relatable (with the exception of a few unsavory roles that I didn’t particularly care for due to their attitudes and mannerisms, but that shows great writing!). My favorite part was learning more about Harvey House, so much so that I did a little deep dive on the side to learn more about this restaurant. The Finding of Miss Fairchild was an admirable read that was hard to put down and a great start to a new series!

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read through Kindle Unlimited with JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
384 reviews27 followers
August 22, 2022
When Sophia Fairfield is blindsided by a forced engagement with her father’s business partner, Prescott (a man widowed twice and well old enough to be her father), she begs her parents to change their minds, but to no avail. Prescott leaves on business and charges his stepson Carver with looking after Sophia.
As they spend more and more time together, they quickly develop feelings for one another. But she thinks Carver would be ruined if she tries to break her engagement with Prescott and marry Carver instead…so she runs away.
Fleeing her home in the dark of night and catching a train out west, Sophia heads to New Mexico to be a Harvey Girl, a respectable waitress at a trackside restaurant. Sophia has never had to work before, but she learns quickly, making friends and learning to stand on her own two feet.
Carver eventually finds Sophia, and they want to marry, but there are obstacles…including Prescott, a man who ALWAYS gets what he wants, no matter what - or who - is in his way. And he wants Sophia.
Can Sophia and Carver’s trust in the Lord be enough to bring them through the trials so they can be each other’s perfect match?
You’ll want to find out in The Finding of Miss Fairfield, a delightful, emotional, and suspenseful first-in-a-new-series by Grace Hitchcock. I’m already looking forward to Book 2!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Becky Lewis.
1,058 reviews59 followers
March 23, 2023
Romantic and Suspenseful

Grace Hitchcock has once again crafted a compelling novel involving faith, romance and suspense. My heart was in my throat as I followed Sophia’s path from Charleston to New Mexico. God allowed many unsavory, threatening, and greedy people in Sophia’s life. Will she ever get a chance to see what life could be like following only God and her own decisions?

Another great look at the Harvey Girl empire: the girls, the rules, the camaraderie and the competition.

You will be glued to your seat as you flip pages to see if Sophia and Carver can have a future together, or whether evil will overcome. The power of loyalty, friendship, and forgiveness all stood out to me in amazing detail. Bravo!!

I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit via NetGalley. I also bought a copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.