Margot Matthews is approaching her 40th birthday.
Working at Cobbled Court Quilts in New Bern, Ct., she
yearns for a family and a child of her own. Margot receives
word that her sister Mari has died in a car accident and
her 6 year old daughter Olivia is in a coma at the hospital
and not expected to live. A scribbled note written before
Mari dies is found requesting that Margot be guardian of
Olivia. Wishing so hard for a child of her own, Margo is
filled with guilt over the death of her sister in giving
her
what she prayed for. She now faces her parents in a
custody battle over the child as they feel they are better
equipped to give Olivia what she needs.
Paul Collier, an attorney, and his son James have just
arrived to New Bern. Margot and Paul are attracted to each
other until Margot believes his affections lean towards
another. The peace and strength to continue her fight for
Olivia comes partly from spending time with the quilting
group, through their support. Olivia is filled with fear
as an unexpected problem arises from the court appointed
guardian. Only her faith in God and her support from the
quilting group can carry her through her heartbreaking
challenges. Margot learns that quilts are a lot like
families with their many layers that take time and patience
to piece together in forming the complete piece. Difficult
decisions and sacrifice might be required of Margot in
proving the ultimate love she holds for her niece.
THE TIES THAT BIND is a most beautiful and nostalgic tale
of the
weaving of lives in overcoming grief and learning to move
forward no matter the personal cost. Following God's way
brings fulfillment and happiness to Margo. I really and
truly loved THE TIES THAT BIND. The deep and passionate
feelings in
every character when working together, form a truly
wonderful tale of spirit, faith and true friendship. Marie
Bostwick has woven a warm and compassionate tale that will
stay with the reader for months to come.
Christmas is fast approaching, and New Bern, Connecticut, is
about to receive the gift of a new pastor, hired sight
unseen to fill in while Reverend Tucker is on sabbatical.
Meanwhile, Margot Matthews' friend, Abigail, is trying to
match-make even though Margot has all but given up on
romance. She loves her job at the Cobbled Court Quilt Shop
and the life and friendships she's made in New Bern; she
just never thought she'd still be single on her fortieth
birthday.
It's a shock to the entire town when
Phillip A. Clarkson turns out to be Philippa. Truth be told,
not everyone is happy about having a female pastor. Yet
despite a rocky start, Philippa begins to settle in--finding
ways to ease the townspeople's burdens, joining the quilting
circle, and forging a fast friendship with Margot. When
tragedy threatens to tear Margot's family apart, that
bond--and the help of her quilting sisterhood--will prove a
saving grace. And as she untangles her feelings for another
new arrival in town, Margot begins to realize that it is the
surprising detours woven into life's fabric that provide its
richest hues and deepest meaning. . .