The story begins as Elm Creek Manor, an artists’ retreat, is in the midst of preparation for an upcoming week-long quilting camp. Two of the resident Elm Creek Quilters, Judy and Summer, are leaving with mixed emotions all around. Sylvia, the owner of Elm Creek Manor, is busy working on a secret project.

Switching between viewpoints of the founding Elm Creek Quilters, the author lets us in on their pasts and the events that led them to learn and love quilting. The women have found that quilting fosters trust, cooperation, and friendship. The subplots include a shaky romance, a long-running feud, and a bitter mother-daughter relationship.

Chiaverini’s characters are well-developed and interesting, with foibles, failings, and triumphs that make them true-to-life. I found the descriptions and histories of different quilt patterns intriguing. (And I now have a compelling urge to complete the quilt I started years ago!) I enjoyed this book, but have one small complaint. I found the repetitive use of the phrase winding ways excessive and annoying, even a bit condescending. I would have picked up on the theme without the constant reminders scattered throughout the book. Nonetheless, I can recommend THE WINDING WAYS QUILT highly to both quilters and non-quilters.

July 10, 2008