Review of Where Grace Appears: First Line Friday

Review of Where Grace Appears: First Line Friday

In this week’s First Line Friday, I’m giving my review of Where Grace Appears by Heidi Chiavaroli and published by Hope Creek Publishers. Where Grace Appears is a contemporary women’s fiction/contemporary romance. This book is part of a series, but it does not have cliffhangers. Though it is 308 pages, it isn’t a long or difficult read. I finished within a couple days, and the only reason it didn’t happen quicker was because I had to work.

Now, it’s time for our first line and my review of Where Grace Appears.

First Line Friday

“The nature of secrets is that they long to be kept and long to be told all at the same time.”

Review of Where Grace Appears

What an amazing first line. Though the cover is beautiful and initially drew me to the book, that first line is a winner. It hooked me completely. Even without mystery concerning the secret, the author keeps the reader invested in finding out if and when the secret will be made known. And there are plenty of bumps along the way due to the keeping of the secret. As one who has grappled with the secrets of others and the power they have to change people’s behavior and thinking and put the secret keeper in a place of constantly questioning and fighting to keep hidden things hidden, I appreciate the efforts the author went through to portray the reality of living with a secret. She does a good job showing the constant inner battle.

I know the book is a modern take on Little Women, but as I have never read that book, I cannot speak to how closely the story mirrors that story. I recognize the names and the blatant (but not off-putting) references to similarities, but that’s as far as my understanding goes.

Whether closely resembling or not, the characters in Where Grace Appears are wonderfully written. I’d love to visit the town and the bed and breakfast. It sounds beautiful, and the people welcoming. While his troubles may not be as obviously life-changing as Josie’s, Tripp has struggles of his own that he must come to terms with. And Josie’s major issue is a catalyst for a deeper look at herself, her faith, and her dreams. The author has done a great job portraying the family as family, not perfect but in each other’s corner.

Whether you are a fan of Little Women or not, Heidi Chiavaroli has provided an enjoyable story that will make you want to read the rest in the series. I give this book four stars.

Purchase Where Grace Appears

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out this week’s Meet the Author Monday interview with Shaen Layle and enter the giveaway! Meet the Author Monday Interview with Shaen Layle.