I had the opportunity to be an early reader for Of Needles and Haystacks by Ann Elizabeth Fryer and am so glad I did! It was such a good story that I stayed up way too late and read the whole book in one sitting. A beautiful story, if perhaps a bit unconventional in the telling of this historical tale since it primarily follows the journal entries of Dorothy Trafton when she moves to Kentucky after the unexpected death of her parents.

James Bleu is not excited about the arrival of Miss Dorothy Trafton, but as her uncle’s friend, he doesn’t shy away from his responsibilities, which include informing Miss Trafton of her place in her new home. Dorothy only wants to be accepted by her family, especially coming on the heels of losing the only family she knew about. But as revelation after revelation hits her, she wonders if she knew anything at all.

What drew me most to Of Needles and Haystacks was Dorothy’s voice in her entries. She has the best storytelling ability as she sprinkles in bits of humor while talking about her adventures and misadventures in her new community. Of course this comes at the hands of the author and makes Of Needles and Haystacks the most endearing of novels.

If you’re looking for a book to wrap you in a blanket and drag you away to a different time and place, you must pick up a copy of this book. I’m so glad I got a chance to read it and am hoping you’ll love it as much as I do.

Curious to learn more? Take a peek at the opening line in my First Line Friday post.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. 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.