Back in 2019, I read the first book of the Tree of Life series by Olivia Newport, The Inn at Hidden Run.
While I didn’t dislike the entire book, it wasn’t my favorite for reasons my review states pretty clearly, but I saw something in that book. I knew, deep down I knew that I’d love the series.
And I have. I was so sorry to learn that the last book came out this fall. Sorry… and excited. I mean, come on! Another book with Nolan, Jillian, and Drew? Yes, please! More historical research? Oh, yeah. About Jillian’s MOTHER? Be still my heart… and let me at it.
The story of Now That I Know You is probably my favorite of the whole series. It gripped me from page one and carried me on waves of emotion all through the melding of past and present as Olivia Newport does so well. There’s intrigue, danger, twists, connections… There’s so much to love about this book.
Fun fact about the story. There’s a “cliche” or stereotype in there that I totally missed until I started writing this review. That’s how well the author wove what is a cultural thing into a story without making it cliche or stereotypical. It’s brilliantly done.
However, this book does have a few problems I have to note. The editing is lacking. From the overuse of people’s names in dialogue (it gets tedious at times) and the wrong word used here or there, I found it frustrating to try to ignore what refused to be ignored. I may have read an ARC (provided to me for review) that was not the final copy, but I received it after the publication date, so I doubt it.
Despite that, this is still my favorite book of the series, and I really hope Olivia Newport writes more in a similar vein somehow. I really did love this book despite a couple of small warts.
Recommended for lovers of genealogy, history, mystery, and family. Not recommended for readers looking for an overt faith element. It’s there, but it’s understated–more subtext than anything.
She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of Pikes Peak. Visit her WEBSITE for more information.
Team members play roles of attorneys and witnesses.
