The Christmas Boutique

An Elm Creek Quilts Novel

By: Jennifer Chiaverini

Narrated by: Christina Moore

Twenty years after the publication of The Quilter’s Apprentice, the novel that launched the beloved Elm Creek Quilts series, New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverini returns with another delightful chapter featuring Master Quilter Sylvia Bergstom Compson and friends, a captivating, heartwarming tale sure to become a holiday favorite.

Just weeks before Christmas, severe wintry weather damages the church hall hosting the Christmas Boutique—an annual sale of handcrafted gifts and baked goods that supports the county food pantry. Determined to save the fundraiser, Sylvia Bergstrom Compson offers to hold the event at Elm Creek Manor, her ancestral family estate and summertime home to Elm Creek Quilt Camp.

In the spirit of the season, Sylvia and the Elm Creek Quilters begin setting up market booths in the ballroom and decking the halls with beautiful hand-made holiday quilts. Each of the quilters chooses a favorite quilt to display, a special creation evoking memories of holidays past and dreams of Christmases yet to come. Sarah, a first-time mother expecting twins, worries if she can handle raising two babies, especially with her husband so often away on business. Cheerful, white-haired Agnes reflects upon a beautiful appliqué quilt she made as a young bride and the mysterious, long-lost antique quilt that inspired it. Empty nesters and occasional rivals Gwen and Diane contemplate family heirlooms and unfinished projects as they look forward to having their children home again for the holidays.

But while the Elm Creek Quilters work tirelessly to make sure the Christmas Boutique happens, it may take a holiday miracle or two to make it the smashing success they want it to be.

Praised for her ability to craft “a wonderful holiday mix of family legacy, reconciliation and shared experiences” (Tucson Citizen), Jennifer Chiaverini once again rings in the festive season with this eagerly awaited addition in her beloved series.

Great complexity of characters

I read this book out of order because I wanted a treat during the holiday season. I liked that this book gave the history or back story on each of the characters. Performance and editing were perfect.

Oh the quilting!!

I love the Elm Creek Quilts series and this one did not disappoint. These books are super well written and heartwarming without being too sappy.

Fabulous heart warming story

This series about elm creek quilters gets better and better. A must read! Read it this Christmas.

Details about making a quilt

Like the story with all ladies background ! The details about making the different quilts, and the history behind them

Excellent.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have listened to all the Elm Creek Quilts books and didn't find this one to be a repeat of the others, as some reviewers have mentioned. Very happy to hear more about all the Elm Creek Quilters.