At a glance
New Faces, New Friends
Children's Christian Historical Fiction
New Faces, New Friends
Book 9 of the Grandma's Attic series
171 pages · First published 1989
In 1895 North Branch, Michigan, Mabel Williams is happily settling into life as a minister's wife and eagerly anticipating the birth of her first child. But even in a small logging town, life is rarely quiet, especially when a newcomer who looks remarkably like Mabel attracts the attention of Hudson Curtis, a neighboring minister whose awkward courtship inadvertently sparks damaging gossip. Meanwhile, Mabel's best friend Sarah Jane is keeping an unexpected secret, and new friendships bring fresh challenges and humorous misunderstandings. As Mabel navigates community rumors, motherhood, and the responsibilities of married life, she learns to depend on God's guidance through both troublesome and joyful moments. Full of warmth, faith, and old-fashioned humor, this Grandma's Attic installment is a charming choice for families and readers who enjoy nostalgic historical fiction, enduring friendships, and everyday adventures in nineteenth-century America.
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Jump to the pours ↓Michigan Cherry Tea + Spiced Rum Cider
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Pregnancy and childbirth; Harmful gossip and unfounded suspicions of marital impropriety
Alcohol-Free Pour
Michigan Cherry Tea
Tart Michigan cherries and honey brighten a simple glass of tea, reflecting the sweetness, humor, and enduring friendships of Mabel's life in North Branch.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Chill and serve over ice.
- Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
- Glassware: Highball glass.
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Highball glass ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Spiced Rum Cider
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Warm apple cider, cinnamon, and a splash of rum evoke the comforts of a Michigan farmhouse, making a fitting companion to Mabel's humorous adventures in friendship, family, and new motherhood.
What you'll need
- 6 oz apple cider ↗
- 1.5 oz dark rum
- 1 cinnamon stick ↗
- 1 orange slice ↗
Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.
How to mix it
- Warm cider with the cinnamon stick and orange slice in a small saucepan for 5–10 minutes, without boiling. Remove from heat, stir in rum, and pour into a heatproof mug.
- Glassware: Heatproof mug.
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