The Fragile Thread

Once again Aliske Webb has used the quilting metaphor to record life experiences in THE FRAGILE THREAD. Echoing traditional heroic journeys of Greek legend, Aliske acknowledges the journey that all women share in their individual threads that weave life's tapestry. While drawing on lessons and metaphors familiar to all lovers of literature, however, Aliske gives THE FRAGILE THREAD a fresh philosophical twist guaranteed to provoke thought and refresh one's spirit at the same time. The center of creativity and the heart of the novel, Grandma's Quilt Shop, recently opened by Aggie who, in her own quest begin life anew, has located in the small town of Clareville, in the middle of the west row around the town square. Excited by her new prospects, Aggie begins a quilt designed to record her new life. Each square represents the import events of her life, including family, change, fear, and success. The sampler reflects the common pattern to the journey all women share; yet the sharp uniqueness of fabric emphasizes Aggie's unique impressions. Having found her spiritual home in her new quilt shop, Aggie is stunned to learn of the town's plans to replace the Town Square with a parking lot and a strip mall. The mayor's son, "Little Al Jr" spearheads the development project, and has already purchased half of the block where Aggie lives over her quilt shop. Aggie finds herself becoming a part of the women's business community to preserve the heritage of the city's park and historical buildings. Like the heroes of Greek legend, each of Aggie's challenges is accompanied by encouragement from unexpected places, including the spirit of her deceased Grandmother, the mysterious and boisterous Jo, and the sexy fireman with a love of fabric. Surrounded by her daughters and the women of the community, Aggie records her challenges and successes within the sampler quilt, preserving the lessons of love and of strength. For those who found themselves enraptured by THE PHOENIX QUILT, as well as new fans of Aliske Webb, this marvelous novel will provide a refreshing view of life and the spiritual journey we all share. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, and eagerly look forward to journeying into more of Aliske's work.

I love a good story with a woman in midst of things. This wonderful story of women working together will entrance you; I enjoyed every word. Aggie is a widow with spunk and business sense. She has a new chance in her old hometown; I won't tell you what happened. But know that this heart and hardy woman takes on the BIG BOYS.Don't miss it; a good story with lingering memories.