A new series by Grace Hitchcock? Yes. thank you very much, especially in this first book in her Aprons and Veils series. This is Sophias story and what a story it is. In Finding Miss Fairfield, Sophia is the unwilling intended of a man twice her age who has a stepson closer in age to her. As expected, she is relieved when her husband to be is out of town on business and Carter is pressed into service to keep Sophia company until he returns. I enjoyed the friendship between these two and it added some lightness to the story.
It’s safe to say that Miss Fairchild is not a shrinking violet, as she plans and executes her escape, she and the reader are in for quite an adventure. I loved her work as a Harvey Girl, meeting the people she met and watching her life change for the better. There’s a bit of danger, a cast of interesting characters and an overall delightful storyline. I.am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

One of my favorite things about Grace's book is that the storylines are unique and fun. I knew the first time that I read what this story was about that I wanted to read it. I loved it!

Sophia feels stifled under her parent's smothering ways and then she finds out that she has "accepted" a proposal of marriage to one of her dad's friends. She is not happy but doesn't know how to stop the marriage from happening. Her fiance has to go on a trip and he tells his son, Carver, to escort her around town during his absence. Sophia is attracted to her future step-son from the beginning and the attraction is mutual. There were a few bumps in the journey and some unexpected twists that stand between Carver and Sophia. I couldn't put the book down as I anticipated how Sophia and Carver were going to get their happily ever after and how God would protect them. I loved watching their faith grow as their characters encountered obstacles and had to overcome them. Highly recommend this novel and this author.

Sophia Fairfield is a beautiful young lady whose father has determined that she will marry his business partner, a man far too old for her. In fact, while he is away on a business trip, he insists his stepson keep her company. Carver is only a little older than she is, and they fast become friends. Their friendship turns into more very quickly, and as the old man returns, Sophia leaves, and becomes a Harvey House waitress in New Mexico. Through many twists and turns, she marries Carver, but only after the old man catches her, and almost tricks her into marriage. Great book!

She is supposed to marry one man who is almost twice her age, she meets his son and is attracted to him and decides to flee her hometown to keep from marrying the older man. She works in a restaurant which is far from what she is used to. Will she find someone new, or will she reunite with one of the former two gentlemen she met?

I enjoyed this book, and always love a happy ending!

Poor Sophia Fairfield! She's long known the perks of coming from a wealthy family, but she's always been afraid. Afraid of displeasing her father and afraid of what other people think of her. And then, her father and Prescott Payne decide that she will become Prescott's bride and she reaches the end of her rope. He's twice her age, she doesn't love him, and this has to end. Somehow, she has to escape!

I fell in love with the history of the Harvey Girls many years ago, so I was especially excited to read this new book. The Finding of Miss Fairfield is an exciting, roller-coaster adventure that takes Sophia from Charleston to New Mexico to New Orleans after she decides to become a working girl. Author Grace Hitchcock gives readers a great cast of characters and a plot that is an engaging blend of romance, history, and inspiration. I look forward to more adventures with these Harvey Girls and I recommend The Finding of Miss Fairfield to all who enjoy historical Christian romance!

I received an ARC from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

Carver promised her that a lifetime of collecting books was in their future.

Full of interesting historic details, this fun mysterious book is worth the read.

I really enjoyed this, but never found myself completely hooked for some reason. The writing is strong, the characters are well rounded and grow throughout the story, but for me something was missing. I did like that it had a unique historical perspective I haven't seen in a lot of historical romance.

Star Rating: 3.25/5
Tropes: Marriage of convenience, changed identity
CW: Death, violence

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Sophia is determined to marry for love but when her father signs a contract to have her marry his much older business partner, she is determined that she will not be able to abide by the contract. The man has already been married twice before and she didn't even like him, let alone love him. She refuses to be forced to do something against her will. Sophia has become close to her fiancé's stepson, Carver, and when they develop feelings for one another that can't be acted upon, she has to leave. So, in an impulsive move, she runs away from her home in Charleston to become a Harvey girl in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

You'll have to read the story to find out if there is a happy resolution to this story. The last 10-15% of the book is a fast-paced crazy ride not knowing if the story will end well for Sophia or not. It is a mostly clean, wholesome read. There are some pretty bad guys with evil intent in the story that keep popping up and trying to destroy the happiness of Sophia and Carver.

It is a well-written story with lots of fast-paced drama. It was fun to learn more about the Harvey girls era of rail travel.

I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.

The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock is the start of a new series. We start out in Charleston, but end up in New Orleans with a few stops along the way. Sophia Fairfield comes home to find her father has entered her into a marriage contract with his much older business partner. Sophia’s whole world has suddenly been turned upside down in the span of an afternoon. While her betrothed is away, he asks his stepson Carver Ashton to look after Sophia. These two can’t seem to help the sparks that are flying between them. Sophia tries to find a way out of the marriage which she never wanted, but can’t seem to a way. Pleading with her father is of no use, so she does the only thing she can. She answers an advertisement for a Harvey Girl and runs away that very night. As she sets off to Las Vegas, New Mexico, she braves a whole new world. No longer a rich socialite, she becomes a working girl in the wild west. Carver starts to search for her knowing that he needs to tell her how he feels about her. However, his stepfather is also on the hunt and will stop at nothing until he can claim her as his bride.

This was a story filled with romance, adventure, faith, and a little bit of history thrown in. Once Sophia left her old life to be a Harvey Girl, I couldn’t put the book down. It had so many twists and turns. One minute you think things are ok & then the next you realize things aren’t as they seem. It was exciting as the book neared the end. We even get an epilogue which I love, of course! I really admired the faith that Sophie showed as she started her new life. She held unto it and never wavered. She was brave and took control of her life when many others wouldn’t have. I love that about her. I hope you will read the book and fall in love with Carver & Sophia’s story like I did. I can’t wait to read book #2. I was given a copy by the author, but all opinions are my very own.

The Finding of Miss Fairfield is the newest by Grace Hitchcock and part of her newest series Aprons and Veils. I really enjoyed this story and I think it was a great start to the series. I love stories that have the Harvey Girl theme to them. Not sure why but I do!

In this story we meet Sophia who has always followed the rules that have been almost forced upon her by her parents. When her father decides to make a business deal regarding her and marriage to a much older man she decides that she's had enough. Sadly she doesn't think much of herself in looks or capabilities but I really enjoyed her growth throughout the story. Her relationship with Carver was quite lovely! Carver was a great leading man and had his own swoony moments.

This story definitely has a little bit of everything. I found that it had a good amount of suspense and there was a part I didn't expect to happen. I am not going to tell you so it will be surprising for you as well. This was a good story. It was entertaining and there was definitely a faith thread woven into the story.

Overall I thought the story was good and can't wait for the next installment.

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion

Harvey Girls!! I was giddy when I saw this book- and now series! I grew up watching the old MGM Judy Garland movie as well as visiting old Harvey House sites around the Southwest. It was a normal part of my cultural history growing up in Southern California. But the movie musical romanticized it for me. So my heart was overjoyed to read a romance that uses this little forgotten bit of American history. Hundreds of young women left their homes back east and chose adventure. They became waitresses for Harvey Houses throughout The West. Google it- it’s neat!
Sophia escapes a marriage arranged by her father, hops on a train and heads west to become a Harvey Girl. But, not before she falls in quick love with Carver, her betrothed’s stepson. But tying him up in scandal is too much to bare, so off she goes to an unknown wild world out west.

I loved this so much, and can’t wait to read the next one very soon!

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!

Miss Fairfield finds herself caught up with seemingly no way out, in an abhorrent arranged engagement. Her father decided she should marry his business partner, a man almost twice her age, who was already twice widowed. A man she cannot stand to be around.
Then her fiance, Mr. Payne (ironic name, isn't it...) arranges that his stepson, Carver, be her escort in his own absence, well...then the music begins. You guessed it. Sophia and Carver fall in love. But there is seemingly no way out.
So, Sophia answers a Harvey girl ad, and runs away. Carver is devastated at her disappearance.
Mr. Payne is angered.
And both are determined to find her.
Meanwhile, Sophia finds herself.
I always love a good Harvey Girl story...
I really don't want to give any more spoilers, but this story is sweet and funny. I found it delightful to read.


Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock is a page turning historical Christian novel during 1899. I absolutely enjoyed this book which is heartwarming, cozy and easy to read with stunning book cover where it is set in different places like Charleston, South Carolina, Las Vegas and New Mexico. This novel is clean, sweet and a brave fight for love between Sophia and Carver. Sophia comes from a big family with nephews and sisters already married, almost singled out until her father forces her to marry Prescott Payne, a business partner - and a widower twice her age who will ensure them rich fortune, high society contacts and good name.

Prescott asks his stepson Carver to take care of his future bride Sophia while he is away for months on a business trip. Sophia and Carver falls in love with each other as they spend time together. But her father will not allow a marriage with Carver as it would bring rumors. The gentle lady Sophia makes a escape plan and runs away from her home to get rid of her father's desires to marry her off to Prescott, Carver's stepfather which is repulsive and unnatural. She leaves her home to take a Job in Las Vegas, New Mexico as one of the Harvey Girls waitress at the Castaneda Hotel. Sophia finds her job respectable and ethical when she was laboring very hard among her Colleagues. She stays strong and confident in the midst of difficulties clinging to biblical scriptures. And then Carver finds sweet Sophia searching her in all the west and asks her hand despite the disgusting circumstances. Craver and Sophia stays faithful to each other. Craver's protectiveness about Sophia treasuring their friendship and never putting it in jeopardy even in the midst of Villains, the story is even more interesting when Sophia denies the society to accept Carver's proposal.

I enjoyed the story when Sophia and Carver even in the midst of trials trusted the lord to find a courageous relationship with each other which resulted in their marriage. Intriguing and adventurous story with great characters if you are looking for a romance read that is delightful.

I just reviewed the novel The Finding of Miss Fairfield by Grace Hitchcock. Thanks to Valmont House Publishers and NetGalley for an advance copy for my honest review.

Oh the tension in this story! I know it's 'just' a book of fiction, but the author grabbed my attention, caused me to care for the 'poor' rich girl, Sophia Fairfield, right away and kept me wondering.
I have read about the fascinating Harvey Girls in the past. The characters who work with and befriend Sophia are excellent examples of human nature. Many parts of the story have a realistic feel to them.
There is a variety of men in the story from Sophia's father to the man, Prescott Payne who works a business deal to marry her on to Carver Ashton who becomes the center of her poetic heart. Good and evil is represented here. Sophia has a deep faith in God and looks to what His will is for her.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy of this most enjoyable read. This is my own unsolicited opinion about the book and beginning of a new series. I can't wait to read about the next Harvey Girl in the line and find it very interesting that readers were introduced to her in this book.

Another fantastic read by Grace Hitchcock! A fun story that keeps the reader engulfed in the pages. I found it quite exciting to read of Sophia escaping a betrothal with a man twice her age only to find a forbidden love. After leaving all the wealth and life of ease behind to be free of a controlling father and all of societies rules she is met with new obstacles. A great glimpse into the Harvey girls and how the dining establishment was ran adds history to this already enchanting story. The romance was beautiful and the pacing of it perfect. Well written, never lagging and a great ending. I’m so excited for the next book in this fun series!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

I'm a big Grace Hitchcock fan but can't say I was a big fan of this one. It was a nice story with a cute couple but the writing style felt off from what I've come to expect from her. If I didn't know better I'd assume it was a first attempt novel from the way the dialogue and storyline lacked flow. In her previous novels her Christian content felt real normal and natural whereas in this story it felt forced and unnatural. The main characters, while a nice romantic couple, were practically flawless which made them unrelatable. Nora was a baffling character and Sophia's continued friendship with her was weird. The romance was sweet though. Anyway, still love Grace Hitchcock just not this particular book.

The Finding of Miss Fairfield is a delightful tale of arranged marriage, friendship, betrayal, and true love, all set against the societal conventions of the late 19th/early 20th century. Well-plotted and well-written, with interesting and well-developed characters, this is one I expect lovers of historical fiction will enjoy very much.

I received a copy of this book from Net Galley. The opinions are my own.

I am so thankful The Finding of Miss Fairfield is the first in the series, because I enjoyed this book more than I have enjoyed any other book in a long time. Sophia Fairfield is such a lovely woman filled with strength and courage. Carver is the man of every woman’s dream. The Harvey House is full of fun, adventure, and intrigue. Best of all, I loved that God was at the center of this story. This story caught my attention from the first couple of pages, and a book I had a hard time putting down. I’m very much looking forward to the next book in this series!

Sophia Fairfield’s father is egoist. In order to secure his business, he forces her to marry Prescott who is much older than her. On her engagement party, Carver — Prescott’s stepson — unexpectedly attends. And then Sophia moves to Prescott’s house while he must go somewhere— she is then under guidance of Carver. As I had expected Sophia and Carver fall in love with each other. But a few days before Prescott comes back home, Carver has to leave the town. And then Sophia runs away to Las Vegas because she is accepted to work at Harvey’s.

want to know how it ends? I’m not going to give more spoiler because I can’t. I have “DNF” this novel. Why? The author and the publisher clearly need to re-read this novel. Ok i have to give a little spoiler here in order to tell why I DNF this one — and I am sure that at the time this novel is available to buy, they have already made a correction — at Harvey’s, Sophia has to disguise herself. She first introduced herself as Sophia Bird. But in the conversation with Miss Trent, miss Trent called her “Miss Fairfield”! How did she know? What happened after that sentence was that Sophia was not shocked at all LOL!

Another reason why I DNF this novel: too much Sophia this and Sophia that.

My blunt review is not meant to put the author down. I apologize! This novel needs a revise with the hope that it will sell very well! As the story has a good potential!

I’m thanking Netgalley and Valmont House Publishers for this e-ARC in exchange for a honest review!

Normally, these are my least favorite stories.
Spoiler alerts ahead:
I really do not like stories where the heroine doesn't end up with the man she is supposed to marry. But in this case, the heroine really doesn't know him. Her fiance is a friend of her father's, who is actually older than her father, that her father owes a favor to. And the man knows that the heroine can't stand him, yet he keeps making her uncomfortable by referring to the marriage bed. He is some creepy old geezer. If he likes younger women so much, let him find one that wants an old man. There are young women out there that prefer old men. Even I have 2 college friends that fell in live with and married men 20 years older than them. It is just creepy when a man persists in chasing a woman who doesn't want him. The hero, the man's step son, is forced to keep track and entertain the heroine while the man is on a business trip before the wedding. So the heroine gets to know the hero very well, it is as if they are courting. As the wedding day gets closer, the heroine escapes from the old man with the hero, but the old man is very rich and chased after her.
The idea that you accept a man and then change your mind is a form of cheating to me. But this story is different since the heroine never agreed to the marriage. She fought it as much as she could. Her father explained that he didn't want her to be a spinster and have to care for her siblings children. That she needed children of her own. And I commend her father, but there was more to it that he wasn't sharing.
I felt that this book started slow, but really picked up quick. It was a well written story and I was able to dive in and enjoy the ride. I liked the main characters and hated the villian(s) with a passion. The author was able to engage me and my emotions in her story. I give this 5 stars with a recommendation to read.

The Finding of Miss Fairfield is the start of a new series, Aprons and Veils. I liked this book a lot.
Forced into a betrothal by a man twice her age, Sophia Fairfield lives in Charlestown,SC. Her sisters have all married and she is being forced into a very unwanted marriage to a man she feels nothing for. This marriage is mutually benefiting to both her parents and Prescott Payne, her intended. When trying to talk to her parents about her situation fails she knows she's got to make her move so she escapes. Now here's where it gets interesting her fiancee assigns his stepson to escort her around town until he returns from a business trip but spending time with Carver, who is much closer to her age she's smitten and he returns those feelings but Sophia has escaped from her upcoming nuptials telling no one where she's going not even Carver.
She ends up working as one of the Harvey Girls , single women who have high standards,have a sense of adventure and brought hospitality and graciousness to the Harvey House restaurants which were along the rail lines.
The training and expectations were intense and high for these women. I have read books before about the Harvey Girls but this one was more thorough with it's details and I enjoyed it so much. Makes me wish I could have enjoyed some of that hospitality at the Harvey House.
While she's away Carver vows to drop everything in his search for Sophia. Prescott also vows to find her but is it because he's missing his lovely bride to be?
There's a bit of drama and the book has so much energy making it so hard to put down. You just need to know whats going to happen as you can feel the tension mounting the further you read into the book. This book is great! Highly recommended!

Pub Date: 29 Aug 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.