Della's Song

Author: Donna Jo Stone
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Apron Strings Tea Tales
Pages: 181
Release Date: May 19, 2026
Publisher: Aileron Books

In the wake of a devastating train accident, Della Swan’s world is shattered. Her father and brother are forever changed, and the Swan Family Gospel Singers have no choice but to depend on the charity of formidable Aunt Leticia, proprietor of the Hotel Fairwood.

Of Della’s six brothers, only two remain with her at the hotel: Quiet Max, the youngest, and Frank, the pianist who lost his arm—and his heart for music. The rest are sent away to school or work. Aunt Leticia believes the children must learn to make their way in the world, effectively banishing them.

During Father’s recovery, the repercussions of his head injury make one thing clear. Life as the Swans knew it, traveling the south and sharing gospel music, may never return. Yet Della clings to the belief that God isn’t finished with her family or their calling and sets a plan in motion to bring them together again.

When she develops an unexpected bond with Clayton Miller, the hotel’s reserved, long-time employee, his steady presence reminds her there is often more to people—and situations—than meets the eye.

Della’s Song is a stand-alone novel in the Apron Strings Tea Tales multi-author series, and a 1930s historical women's fiction with sweet romance inspired by “The Six Swans.”

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Reviewer: Jeanette Durkin

I enjoyed reading this book! The theme that resonated the most with me was that someone can have more than one calling. Della was so focused on her calling as a singer that she almost let other opportunities pass her by.

Clayton is my favorite character! He’s such an easygoing, go with the flow kind of guy. He sees problems, and he fixes them with no fuss. I like Margaret too! She’s so kind and considerate. She’s also a little bit sassy, just a little bit! Max is adorable! His quiet nature often makes it seem like he’s not paying attention, but he has a very giving and considerate nature.

When the townspeople came together and supported the Swan family, tears sprang to my eyes. The community is so important, especially when tragedy has struck. I like the recipes at the end! I’m eager to try making a Sally Lund cake!

I was provided with a complimentary ARC copy of the book from Aileron Books through Interviews & Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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