Have you ever wanted to read a book based on the setting alone? I can’t say that’s totally the truth for why I wanted to read These Tangled Threads, but it did have a lot to do with it. Biltmore is somewhere I would love to go one day. As soon as Sarah announced she was writing this book, I put it on my want list. Now, it of course also has to do with the fact that she is an AMAZING writer, and the book blurb had me hooked as well. The fact that it was at Biltmore just added to it!
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About the Book
These Tangled Threads Author Sarah Loudin Thomas
Published by Baker Books
on April 2, 2024
Genres: Fiction / Christian / Historical, Fiction / Historical / General, Fiction / Southern
Pages: 368
Amazon | Goodreads | Baker Book HouseSet in the shadow of Biltmore Estate, a poignant tale of friendship, restoration, and second chances.
Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of the great Vanderbilt mansion. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she knew where to begin.
To track down the mysterious weaver, Lorna sees no other way than to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her past, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of life long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity, as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.
"The history is fascinating, but the characters and the challenges they face are what make this story one to remember."--ANN H. GABHART, bestselling author of In the Shadow of the River
My Perspective
These Tangled Threads is a beautifully written novel full of history, well crafted characters, themes of forgiveness, a teeny bit of mystery, and so much more. The journey we witness of Gentry, Arthur and Lorna was one that we can learn many things from (of which you’ll have to read otherwise I’ll have to include spoilers which I do not like to do). A hint – forgiveness, second chances, moving forward, and even a bit of history.
Though the POV’s change and the timelines change, not once did I feel confused or out of place. It all went together seamlessly, something I love about Thomas’ writing style. Another thing I love – the way she makes you feel for the characters. Empathy, pain, sadness, sometimes mad, adoration, understanding and love. You can’t help but have them on your heart as you’re reading the story. And honestly? I love Arthur. He was my favorite. He showed such compassion, patience, gentleness and so much more. May we all have a bit of Arthur in us.
Historical fiction fans will no doubt fall in love with these characters and their story. Though I’m sad to say goodbye, I’m thankful I can reread any time I want to 🙂
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
About the Author
Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her historical fiction is often set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia.
Sarah is the director of Jan Karon’s Mitford Museum in Hudson, NC. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Coastal Carolina University and is the author of the acclaimed novels The Right Kind of Fool–winner of the 2021 Selah Book of the Year–and Miracle in a Dry Season–winner of the 2015 Inspy Award. Sarah has also been a finalist for the Christy Award, ACFW Carol Award and the Christian Book of the Year Award. She and her husband live in western North Carolina.
Learn more at www.SarahLoudinThomas.com.
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