The Runaway Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini

Sometimes after reading a lot of heavier and more complex books, I need to unwind with something a big more low-key. I have a little over a half-an-hour drive to and from work everyday and they are the perfect books to listen to in the car (and sometimes in the driveway to finish a really good chapter!)

I also usually like to find books with a bit more substance, but I love listening to these books on playaway and find myself drawn to the various characters and storylines. I usually don't read series books - mostly because there are so many books out there that I have a hard time committing the quickly declining reading time that I have unless the series is really, really good. Let me just start by saying that I am really enjoying this series!! I kept hearing good things about them at the public library and picked up the first book, The Quilter's Apprentice, about a month ago and have been hooked ever since. As still two others weigh the comfort of the present against dreams of a future far from Elm Creek Manor, closely guarded secrets strain the bonds of friendship with those who may be left behind. Two among them falter in their personal relationships, while another suffers financial problems. Just when it seems that the women have everything to celebrate, forces conspire to threaten their happiness and prosperity. Somehow, in their race to commemorate in the bridal quilt all they hold dear about Sylvia’s wisdom, skill and devotion, her fellow quilters forget to give honesty its pride of place. But the quilting retreat at Elm Creek Manor thrives on women sharing their creativity, their challenges and their dreams. Such little white lies seem harmless enough. Until the time comes to unveil the surprise gift, Sylvia will be the one in the dark.

Eager to honor their favorite Master Quilter, the Elm Creek Quilters hasten to stitch a bridal quilt for the newlyweds.

This ninth Elm Creek Quilts novel continues the series with a tribute to matriarch Sylvia Compson, who surprised her fellow quilters by marrying her longtime sweetheart on a recent holiday.

The Runaway Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini