Elm Creek Quilts, the thriving artists' retreat at Elm Creek Manor, is a place that stakes its sterling reputation on the palpable creative energy and collective goodwill of its teachers and students. But when two of its founding members decide to leave the fold, the Elm Creek Quilters face untold changes not only in their lifestyle but also in their business. As the news spreads, a single question emerges: Who can possibly take their place? In the newest instalment in her acclaimed series, Jennifer Chiaverini chronicles the Elm Creek Quilters' endeavour to expand their circle. An open call for applicants has inspired a tremendous response from all corners. Among the candidates are Maggie, whose love of history shines through in all her projects; Chef Anna, whose food-themed quilts are wonderfully innovative; Russ, the male quilter whose pathbreaking style could lend Elm Creek Quilts an intriguing aesthetic departure; Karen, a novice teacher whose preternatural gifts complement her deep understanding of the quilters' mission; Gretchen, the soulful veteran with a legacy steeped in quilting tradition. Cherished memories resurface and inspiring visions for the future take shape in the course of the members' careful deliberations. Only by understanding the meaning of what their own labours have wrought can they select the ones who have earned a place among the CIRCLE OF QUILTERS.