This book is a hidden gem. A little known classic in the vein of Anne of Green Gables, Daddy Long Legs, and Little Women. What a delight! Don't we always wish there were more of these such books. Lovelace excellently develops characters and creates a warm old world with modern parallels.

I did find the author's handling of God and theology interesting and representative of changing cultural sentiments of the era.

I really enjoyed getting to see Carney's thought processes. Haven't we all been annoyed with friends or houseguests before? Carney is relatable and likable.

This is a heartwarming, quintessential, sparkling little story that you won't want to miss.

This was a fun book! I liked it and enjoyed getting to know one of Betsy's "Crowd," Carney Sibley better. I was curious to find out what happened with her and Larry, and getting a glimpse of Betsy and Joe during the period between Betsy and Joe and Betsy and the Great World was nice. This wasn't a standout to me the way the main Betsy-Tacy books have been, but it had the gentle humor and warmth I love in Maud Hart Lovelace's stories.

When I read through the Betsy-Tacy books for the first time, a lot of stuff seemed to be missing between books 8 and 9. Then I read Carney's House Party ... and now I understand! Which was amazing, because I really love this series ... but it just didn't make sense until I read this book.

Besides filling in the gaps, the story is beyond amazing. And I love Carney ... and Sam ... and Bonnie ... and all of Carney's family ... and seeing Betsy and Tacy and everyone from a different perspective.

I'd recommend this book to practically anyone, especially people who love the Betsy-Tacy series and want more.

~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews

Grade: B- | 3 stars

I actually liked this one more as an adult than I did as a teenager! Carney is so lovable, she reminds me of a heroine of a rom com. Sam is a genuinely interesting love interest and he and Carney are really good together. Betsy makes an extended appearance, so that’s fun, and it was nice to see Bonnie again. I can definitely recommend this book to fans of the Betsy-Tacy series.

ETA: Upon further reflection there were some issues with consent in this novel that made me uncomfortable and that might send the wrong message to young readers. I’m knocking the book down a star for that reason. I’d still recommend it though, with that caveat.