Where Promises Remain

The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast #7

by Heidi Chiavaroli

Hannah Martin thought she was about to have an empty nest . . . until the illegitimate daughter of her late husband shows up on her doorstep.

Five years after her husband’s death, Hannah Martin runs a successful inn and serves the needy in her community. Despite a house full of guests, she’s worried about the loneliness that will come with an empty nest. Now that no one needs her for anything other than serving her famous five-course breakfasts and retrieving fresh towels, she throws herself into winning Camden’s Hospitality Grant. With the help of the grant, the bed and breakfast will bring in even more customers and Hannah won’t have time to think about what she’s missing.

But when a handsome lumberjack named Kevin moves in next door, Hannah’s attraction to the widowed bachelor knocks her off-kilter. Just as she begins to think about dating again, a young woman arrives at the bed and breakfast claiming to be the illegitimate daughter of Hannah’s late husband.

When the Orchard House’s chances at the Hospitality grant is threatened, Hannah's children oppose her "new" daughter moving in, and Kevin’s problems start to bleed over into her own, she must decide what matters most—before she loses the grant, the bed and breakfast’s reputation, and perhaps, her second chance at love.

This is Book 7 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.

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Romance, Christian Fiction

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2023

About the author

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 Carol award-winning novel, The Orchard House, inspired her to create The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series, a contemporary twist on Little Women. Heidi makes her home in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons. Visit her online at heidichiavaroli.com.

Reviews

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful conclusion to this beloved series! I loved how the author has wonderfully portrayed the voice of each character in their own story. This is Hannah's story, the matriarch of the family, who has been running her Bed & Breakfast for the last five years since her husband died. It involves a second chance at love for two 50+ olds, sweet romance, an empty nest, forgiveness and loving through the hard times.

From the first line "Hannah Martin though she was about to have an empty nest...until the illegitimate daughter of her late husband shows up on her doorstep" to the last line, I could not stop turning pages!

"My husband's favorite quote-the one about how you could love anyone if you knew their story."

"I thought I'd forgiven my husband. But with each new heartache that came in the present, I found the past harder and harder to forgive."

This very well could be their family motto: "We mess up a lot, that's for sure. But we know how to love."

You need to check out this series! It's a wonderful contemporary spin-off on Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own. I plan to order this book and #6 to complete my collection of this series.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hard to put down book

Wow, I certainly enjoyed reading this book. Actually, I really enjoyed reading the entire series. I am very impressed with the author, Heidi Chiavaroli. I plan to find whatever else she has written, and read those books as well. I definitely recommend her!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a fantastic ending to a really special series. Each of these books hits on something new and challenging while they all share a theme... trusting Christ through the hard stuff! This book is no exception. The characters have a depth that makes them feel real. They struggle with the same types of things we all do. And this is the type of story that can teach you how to handle life's difficulties right alongside them. So very well written!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Lisa G. Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY FAVORITE OF THE SERIES!

I have enjoyed The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series, and Book #7 is my favorite. Author Heidi Chiavaroli has taken readers on a beautiful journey with the Martin family throughout this series. In this book, she showcases the character of Hannah Martin, mother of five children, owner, and operator of the B&B, wonderful grandmother, loved mother-in-law, cherished friend, and respected business owner.

Hannah is on the verge of being an empty nester as her youngest daughter’s Wedding is weeks away. She finds herself taking stock of her life – her life now vs. where she thought her life would be at this point. She has little time to dwell on things as two life-changing things happen. New neighbor Kevin moves next door, and he immediately grabs her attention in ways different from her husband. She is excited but guards her heart. Next, a young woman appears, claiming to be the illegitimate daughter of her late husband. Chiavaroli then shows readers Hannah’s actual depth. This book is loaded with family drama, fun, redemption, forgiveness, and a great deal of love.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has been such a great series. I'm sad to leave the Martin Family and Orchard House Bed and Breakfast.

While this last novel of the series focuses on mother Hannah, readers get to catch up with the rest of the Martin family as well as meet a few new characters. As with each book in the series, difficult topics surface and are worked through. In Where Promises Remain, there is a theme of forgiveness and starting over.

This entire series is highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance.

My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Blessed & Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Promises Remain is the final book in the Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series by Heidi Chiavaroli. I’ve loved this entire series and was so excited to see Hannah Martin get her own story! She is the rock of the March-family-inspired Martins, and I’ve always loved her generous and loving heart. The fact that it’s finally her turn to find her second chance after having been the one to dig her heels in and work for her dreams while being a source of stability, strength, and wisdom for her children left me giddy and cheering Kevin in his pursuit of her.
I absolutely loved their more mature romance. Having already lived and loved, it was beautiful to watch them fall for each other with the passion and confidence of people who know what they want and aren’t afraid to reach for it. There are plenty of swoon-worthy moments in their romance, trust me!!
Can I just say that I hope to have such a loving and forgiving heart like Hannah? Wow. She blew me away with how quickly she could identify thoughts or actions that went against her faith and immediately take them to God. She was so much stronger by recognizing her weaknesses and leaning on her true strength, her Savior. I was deeply inspired by her raw and honest faith journey in this story.
If you haven’t had a chance to read The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast series yet, please do! Start from the beginning as it reads the best from start to finish. Fans of Louisa May Alcott, her story Little Women, and the quirky but loveable March family will want to walk through the ups and downs of the Martins and their author-inspired bed & breakfast.
I was given a copy of this book with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

love this book so much!

It was so refreshing to read a book about a couple in their 50’s finding love for the second time around! I just loved seeing Hannah, the matriarch of the Martin clan, get her HEA :). Kevin aka Prince Lumberjack was just swoony! It was also encouraging to me to see Hannah’s reflections back on her marriage to her first husband and see that even in pain God brings peace and forgiveness. This whole series was such a blessing to me and I grew to genuinely love this family! Highly, highly recommend this book and this whole series!

[Erin Laramore · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars for this conclusion to the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series by Heidi Chiavaroli. This series is about a contemporary family that is similar to Louisa May Alcott's March family in Little Women. If you're like me and have never read the classic, though, you will still enjoy this series. Each of the books have focused on one member of the Martin family and this concluding book focuses on Hannah, the matriarch. With the youngest Martin getting married and leaving the "nest", Hannah puts all of her energy into the bed and breakfast and applying for the local hospitality grant that will allow her to expand her operations and hire on some help. However, with the handsome new widower who moved in next door and the surprise visitor who brings a reminder of a past struggle, Hannah ends up with more than she bargains for.

As with all of this author's books, this book tackles some tough subjects - mental health, trust issues, forgiveness, drug abuse and foster care. Chiavaroli always handles her difficult subjects with grace, however, and this one is no different. Perhaps because I'm in an "older" stage of life, I found that Hannah was the character I most related to, even though I've never been a mother or a business owner. I appreciated the depth of her faith and experience, even though she still struggled with the issue of forgiveness and trust. I enjoyed the story line of this one and getting to "meet" Hannah's friend Charlotte who was referenced in other books, but always as a distant character. I'd love to see more of her story in a future book (hint, hint!). It was good to catch up with the other family members whose stories have been in the other books. If you haven't read the rest of the series, this book's story could stand alone, but it does help to have the other stories for this one to build on. I enjoyed Kevin's character and how he came to care for his nephew, Owen. Their growth was one of the parts of the book I enjoyed the most. Of course, it helps that foster care is a topic near and dear to my heart. The romance in this one moved a bit too quickly for my liking (which is my only reason for not giving it a full 5 stars). Though I understood why (the characters are older and know what they want and have proper expectations as they'd both been widowed, etc.), it still felt quick. But fans of contemporary romance will eat up this love story. The faith thread in this one is solid as Hannah and Kevin both rely on God to help them through their respective struggles. I've thoroughly enjoyed this entire series and am sad to say good-bye to these wonderful characters, but this was a great conclusion to the series. I'd definitely recommend to fans of contemporary stories in general, and romance in particular. 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.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Promises Remain by Heidi Chiavaroli is the seventh and last book in the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series.

I have loved this series and am so sad to see it end. It’s so fitting that the last story is Hannah’s as the last of her children marry. The trials she goes through in the pages of this book show her true heart, the one we’ve watched through the eyes of her children the last several books. It’s a incredible example of a woman of deep faith and sacrificial hospitality facing one of the hardest tests of those qualities.

Then there’s Kevin, her new neighbor. He has challenges of his own, taking in his teenage nephew. I love the romance between Kevin and Hannah, the maturity and support they offer one another. But these are not perfect characters either, and they make mistakes, even out of the best of intentions. It makes the story all the more real.

If you enjoy Little Women, then I highly, highly recommend this series. While Where Promises Remain can be read as a stand-alone. Because it’s the final book in the series, I do suggest reading other books first. It makes the ending all the more heartwarming.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book.
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.

[brenda gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Promises Remain by Heidi Chiavaroli is a real page turner. It's the last book in the Orchard House Bed and Breakfast series. It's book number seven and as much as I hate to see it end, seven is the number of completion. In the previous books all five of the Martin children met the love of their lives and even Aunt Pris ended up marrying an old flame. This time it's Hannah, the mother's turn. When a swoon worthy next door neighbor, Kevin moves in there is instant attraction. Hannah isn't so sure since her husband has been dead for five years. Then a huge suprise happens when a girl claims to be Hannah's husbands love child. Hannah was aware of the affair but knew nothing of a child. Let's just say that not everyone was accepting of Luna since they thought their dad walked on water. Read this spell binding book !!! I think it's a highly appropriate ending to the series. I give it five stars. I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the six previous Orchard House Bed and Breakfast books, I thought I knew Hannah Martin. She's the widowed mother of five children and the proprietor of the B & B. With the youngest, Amie, about to be married, Hannah has to get used to the idea of having an empty nest. When a handsome retired man moves in next door and shows an interest in her and a young woman shows up unexpectedly, Hannah's life gets more complicated. She has to come to terms with forgiveness and the possibility of romance. I liked the switch in viewpoints between Hannah and Kevin. A romance between a couple in their fifties was a nice change too. I really enjoyed the Martin family and Where Promises Remain is a wonderful conclusion to the series. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.

[PJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book in The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast Series and it did not disappoint. Full of twists and turns and exciting, frightening moments!! I loved it. I got so much out of Hannah's angst over trying to forgive her late husband AGAIN for his indiscretions AND trying to deal with a new, cute neighbor and many other adventures.

I had the honor and pleasure of proofreading this book and it gave me a lot of wisdom about forgiving and RE-forgiving people who hurt us.

Thank you, Heidi, for continuing to write books that inspire and motivate me to be a better person.

[Danielle Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the final novel in a lovely series I can say I truly enjoyed this book. I had been waiting for this story and in true Heidi Chiavaroli fashion she didn't disappoint. I loved reading a book with an older POV romantic couple and all of the complications that come with that (like any other age group). Hannah and Kevin were simply a delight to read as well as some moments I was near tears with the issues they are dealing with. I loved how she brought in faith and really made her characters dig into what they believe and why. Highly Recommend.

[Camille Dayton Fostering.literacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness I loved this book! Hannah gets the surprise of her life as a widow when a handsome neighbor moves in next door and a woman claiming to be her husbands daughter arrives within the same week. The romance between Hannah and her neighbor was a breath of fresh air as two older people fell in love despite the challenges in each of their families and the need to blend their established lives. Some of the things that I loved in the book are:

- Kinship foster care representation
- Trauma in teenagers
- Large Families
- Forgiveness
- Mental illness representation
- Social media disaster
- Amie’s forwardness
- Infertility representation
- teaching a teenager to drive

Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Jenn Sands · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent end to this 7-book series. While it could be read as a stand alone I think you’d miss so much of the backstories if you started here. I’ve enjoyed getting to know each member of the Martin family and journey with them through their ups and downs. It’s great to read books where the characters are not perfect and grow in faith through their flaws.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This last story in the series may be my favorite one! I loved reading about Hannah getting a second chance at love.
Hannah Martin is a woman who wants the best for others. Her forgiveness towards people who wrong her as well as forgiving herself when she messes up is inspiring. She trusts God to help her through the hard times.
I'm sad the series is over. ;)

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book was amazing! My favorite of the whole series, since it hit some personal notes for me. The author tells a beautiful story of how the past can interfere with the present, and forgiveness, when given with grace, makes life all the sweeter! Great job, Heidi! This series was so charming, and I’m going to miss this sweet cast of family characters.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hannah Martin, the mother of the five Martin children has a surprise guest, Amie is getting married and the new next door neighbor is a pleasant distraction. There is a lot going on in this book - many conflicts and hard struggles to deal with. The characters show strength and determination as they work through their issues. I will miss this series.

[Elisabeth Warner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will my poor heart recover from this book?? 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 OK but for those who know me know I love emotional damage so that’s ok. I could relate so much to the motherhood side of Hannah’s character. I also struggle with jealousy and bitterness so I could relate to her struggles! The ending was a bit rushed for me, but after thinking about it, I changed my rating from 4 to 5.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curves & Bends, with some Straights

Don't get too comfortable, but do fasten your seat belt! This rollar coaster may toss you about, but keep turning the pages for the next surprise!! Original story lines keep you riveted and guessing! A great read! Part of a series, but each stands alone.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"One only had the preciousness of each sunrise to build their legacy."

I didn't realize how much I've missed Heidi Chiavaroli's lyrical voice until I started reading. This is book 7 of the series but can be read as a stand-alone; I have not read the previous books but didn't feel lost. The author does a great job of integrating the history of the Martin family from the past six books into this new plot to make it all seamless. Within the grounds of a beautiful bed and breakfast located in the picturesque Camden, Maine, path to true and lasting forgiveness, hard work of acceptance, and gift of belonging are discovered and shared. It's a heart-warming story that makes me want to go back and read the entire series.

I loved Hannah's generous, compassionate, honest first person voice sharing her motherly wisdom and joys of falling in love again. Kevin's down-to-earth and practical personality fit Hannah well and his dedication to his nephew made him a great hero. Hannah and Kevin's faith journeys dove deep and were thought-provoking. And Hannah's large family was such a pleasure to get to know.

If you've never read Heidi Chiavaroli's contemporary series, it's time you picked up these books. I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Jeanette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book. I think it is slated to be the last one of the series but as I was finishing it I hoped Ms. Chiavaroli would change her mind. Such a great series with all the ups and downs of family, betrayal, forgiveness and love. Drawing people toward the Great Lover of our souls.

[Diane Shearer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great finish to a great series. I love the Second Chance romance trope. There is a lot of life to be lived after 50. So nice when romance authors are willing to explore it. I wish there were an epilogue so we had some actual closure, but it’s still a great story.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story! A continuation of previous books, but also can be read as a stand-alone.

[Cathy Gurley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where Promises Remain

Great ending book to the series. Same characters with a few added. Felt like I was part of the Martin family.

[Christine Barth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this series, definitely think it's underrated.

[Brenda T. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great series! Enjoyed it tremendously!

[Lauri Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this entire series, and this installment was no exception!

[Jackalyn]

The entire seven-book series is very good.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one felt very real. It felt authentic and accurate and I enjoyed it almost as much as the first. 4.5 rounded up