“Which is more honorable - loyalty or liberty?”

With powerful authenticity, award winning author Heidi Chiavaroli takes readers on an emotional and highly compelling journey to the birthplace of the American Revolution in her latest novel, The Tea Chest. This time-slip novel follows the historical storyline of Emma Malcolm, the daughter of a Loyalist, during 1773 in Boston and the present-day storyline of Lieutenant Hayley Ashworth, who is determined to overcome her past and become a Navy SEAL. A mysterious chest found in a Boston antique store weaves the past and present together, as the fight for freedom reveals courage and strength through the grace of God.

Heidi Chiavaroli is known for writing incredible time-slip novels that tackle difficult topics, while at the same time, drawing readers closer to their faith. She authentically depicts events leading to the American Revolution, including the increase in violence and cruelty from both the Patriots and Loyalists, while sharing the message that our God-given worth is found inside of us rather than where we come from. The Boston Tea Party is an extraordinary part of American history, and this novel is one that readers do not want to miss.

In my opinion, all four of Heidi Chiavaroli’s novels are 5-star quality, but The Tea Chest has earned a place as my new favorite novel of hers, with Freedom’s Ring being my second favorite. The Tea Chest is highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, women’s fiction, and readers who enjoy time-slip novels. The Tea Chest is on my top ten list of books for 2019 (even though it is not officially being released until February 4, 2020).

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

In THE TEA CHEST, HEIDI CHIAVAROLI tells the story of two women, Emma Malcolm, who lived in the 1700's and Hayley Ashworth, who lives in the present time. Their stories run parallel to each other and their dilemma of when to show loyalty and when to fight for freedom is very well brought out. Both of them have suffered abuse - Emma from her overbearing and cruel father and Hayley from her weak, drug addicted mother. Both women seek courage, Emma as she is involved in helping the Patriots and plays a part in the Boston Tea Party, and Hayley who joins the navy and wants to become the first woman SEAL Neither woman wants to show herself as being weak.
The author tells a very real story with very real characters. She is so good at describing their emotions that we feel as though we are going through their struggles with them. The tea chest and what it contains plays a big part and I like the way that Emma's journal and their research help Hayley and Ethan to unlock its secrets.
There is a strong message running through the book - of overcoming, of unconditional love, of redemption, of loyalty and reconciliation, and of the fact that true courage and freedom comes from surrendering to the Lord.
This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading and one I cannot recommend highly enough.
I received an ARC copy from Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.