The final novella in the Quilted Hearts series is the most important. It sets the framework for the full length book in the Hearts Seeking Home series.

This book explains why the series is called Quilted Hearts. It goes beyond just being the Quilting Circle. The final meeting of the Quilting Circle is very emotional. Even though the three books in this series are novellas, you become attached to the characters. It is as is you are a member of the town and the Quilting Circle.

Caroline is a very interesting character. I like her a lot. Even with tremendous loss, she has the courage to want to travel west on her own. In this series, you get to follow her journey and she has so much strength, will-power, pride and love. Caroline is an amazing character!

It is my opinion that you read the Quilted Heart novella series before continuing the journey to the full length Hearts Seeking Home series.

Until next time, live life one page at a time!

Ripples Along The Shore by Mona Hodgson tells the story of Caroline Milburn.

Caroline is a widow, after her husband died in the Civil War. Following the death of her aunt, she returns to her hometown of St. Charles, Missouri to live with her sister, Jewel, and her family.

Caroline feels at odds, not really knowing where her place is in this "new" life. Shortly after returning home, she decides she wants to join the group that is forming to travel west. She is excited about this new adventure!

When she announces her desire to join the group, their leader, Garrett Cowlishaw, forbids a single woman to be added to the others!

This story comes to an abrupt ending, but I hope Mona Hodgson is planning to continue this story in some future novel.

This was a disappointing book. I've read other novella length books that were able to have both a beginning and a satisfactory ending. This book delivers neither. All of the subplots are continued on from previous books and the conclusions to the various problems of various and assorted characters will have to wait until the next book, it seems.

But wait, you say, isn't this the last books in the series? Yes, but there is a new series coming that apparently continues on with these same people and will hopefully wrap up some of the stuff left hanging here. Not that I'm going to continue reading about them.

This isn't really a story. It's the middle of a story, and even at that it's not all that original or exciting. Very disappointing work from an author who has already proven she's capable of much more. My recommendation? Pick up the Sisters Of Cripple Creek series instead.

I received this book from Waterbrook Multnomah for the purpose of an honest review. My opinion is my own.