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Mystic Water #5
Honeysuckle Hollow
Tessa Andrews believes she has her life all figured out, organized in carefully numbered lists to ensure she doesn’t make bad decisions. But her meticulous process is shaken when torrential rain hits Mystic Water for twenty-six hours, forty-four minutes, and two seconds, leaving parts of the town, and her condo, drowning in floodwater.
While seeking a more permanent residence, Tessa temporarily moves into an empty apartment above the Borellis’ diner. Then she receives a package containing a set of tarnished keys belonging to the neglected historic mansion Honeysuckle Hollow, and a whole new set of troubles arise. When the Borellis’ prodigal son visits Mystic Water and wants to stay in the apartment, Tessa tosses her numbered lists aside and makes a surprisingly reckless decision: she uses her entire life savings to buy Honeysuckle Hollow. But this historic home has a few surprises of its own.
Nearly everyone doubts Tessa’s sanity, but she finds unlikely support in an ancient Cherokee spear, a traveling mint plant, and a handsome architect on the run from his past. Will Honeysuckle Hollow outlast its naysayers and survive the town’s capricious weather? Will Tessa be able to save the house and finally learn to follow her heart? Filled with charm, unexpected twists, and just a touch of magic, Honeysuckle Hollow is an enchanting tale of listening to one’s heart, camping out indoors, and the difference acts of kindness can make.
While seeking a more permanent residence, Tessa temporarily moves into an empty apartment above the Borellis’ diner. Then she receives a package containing a set of tarnished keys belonging to the neglected historic mansion Honeysuckle Hollow, and a whole new set of troubles arise. When the Borellis’ prodigal son visits Mystic Water and wants to stay in the apartment, Tessa tosses her numbered lists aside and makes a surprisingly reckless decision: she uses her entire life savings to buy Honeysuckle Hollow. But this historic home has a few surprises of its own.
Nearly everyone doubts Tessa’s sanity, but she finds unlikely support in an ancient Cherokee spear, a traveling mint plant, and a handsome architect on the run from his past. Will Honeysuckle Hollow outlast its naysayers and survive the town’s capricious weather? Will Tessa be able to save the house and finally learn to follow her heart? Filled with charm, unexpected twists, and just a touch of magic, Honeysuckle Hollow is an enchanting tale of listening to one’s heart, camping out indoors, and the difference acts of kindness can make.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2015
82 people are currently reading
1682 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Moorman
29 books524 followersJennifer Moorman is the USA TODAY Bestselling author of five novels, including The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds, The Magic All Around, and the Mystic Water Series. Her creative works also include a collection of folklore retellings and Strawberry Shortcake children’s books. Praised by Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and others, The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds is described as “imbued with Moorman’s trademark touch of magic,” “a seamless blend of history and magical realism,” “an absolute treasure of a book,” and “absolutely mesmerizing.”
A double major graduate of Middle Tennessee State University from the Recording Industry and English programs, her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including People, Parade, Writer’s Digest, The Nerd Daily, Women’s World Magazine, Hollywood Weekly, and many more. She holds degrees with concentrations in mass communications, linguistics, and fiction writing, reflecting her diverse background in storytelling and communication.
She put together a band and toured the United States as an accomplished professional singer for five years. She also worked many years as a senior editor for Harper Collins, guiding authors through the writing, editing, and publishing processes.
Jennifer is the cocreator and cohost of the podcast One Happy Thing with fellow bestselling authors Kerry Anne King and Maddie Dawson.
When she’s not writing, you can find her testing a new recipe, chasing rainbows, or stargazing. Jennifer lives in a magic house in Nashville, Tennessee.
A double major graduate of Middle Tennessee State University from the Recording Industry and English programs, her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including People, Parade, Writer’s Digest, The Nerd Daily, Women’s World Magazine, Hollywood Weekly, and many more. She holds degrees with concentrations in mass communications, linguistics, and fiction writing, reflecting her diverse background in storytelling and communication.
She put together a band and toured the United States as an accomplished professional singer for five years. She also worked many years as a senior editor for Harper Collins, guiding authors through the writing, editing, and publishing processes.
Jennifer is the cocreator and cohost of the podcast One Happy Thing with fellow bestselling authors Kerry Anne King and Maddie Dawson.
When she’s not writing, you can find her testing a new recipe, chasing rainbows, or stargazing. Jennifer lives in a magic house in Nashville, Tennessee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 27, 2015
This was a wonderful story. I was expecting a love story, which it was, but it was much more about people coming together for a common cause. It was so enchanting, I just couldn't put it down! I will definitely check out this author's other books! This was a great win for me on Goodreads.com!
October 13, 2019
So wonderfully enchanting that it felt like my heart was smiling every time I was reading it. A very busy week,is all that kept me from reading this delightful book in one sitting!I loved the heroine Tessa, and the other side characters,as well,but I confess that I am totally in love with the hero~Paul! He is perfect,gorgeous,sweet,considerate with a wonderful-fun wit.
If more books were this amazing, this would be my favorite number-1 genre!LOVED,LOVED,LOVED this and highly recommend it for those who love a book that gives you the best,happiest feels,so much more than a romance!
If more books were this amazing, this would be my favorite number-1 genre!LOVED,LOVED,LOVED this and highly recommend it for those who love a book that gives you the best,happiest feels,so much more than a romance!
November 22, 2017
A heartwarming, humorous, and bittersweet contemporary romance. Realtor, Teassa Andrews condo floods and she temorarily moves into an upstairs apartment offered to her by good friends, the Borelli’s. Before long, the Borelli’s globetrotting journalist son, Paul, returns and claims ‘his’ apartment and once he meets Tessa, he decides to stay awhile.
Tessa has loved an old historical home, Honeysuckle Hollow, that was owned by a deceased doctor who compassionately offered it as a haven for those needing a place to stay when they had no other options. Tessa wants to buy it, remodel it, and make it beautiful again.
Only one person, Crazy Kate, realizes how truly special the old home place really is. In fact—it’s magical. I really enjoyed this story....it made me feel good.
Tessa has loved an old historical home, Honeysuckle Hollow, that was owned by a deceased doctor who compassionately offered it as a haven for those needing a place to stay when they had no other options. Tessa wants to buy it, remodel it, and make it beautiful again.
Only one person, Crazy Kate, realizes how truly special the old home place really is. In fact—it’s magical. I really enjoyed this story....it made me feel good.
November 25, 2017
A heartwarming, humorous, and bittersweet contemporary romance. Realtor, Teassa Andrews condo floods and she temorarily moves into an upstairs apartment offered to her by good friends, the Borelli’s. Before long, the Borelli’s globetrotting journalist son, Paul, returns and claims ‘his’ apartment and once he meets Tessa, he decides to stay awhile.
Tessa has loved an old historical home, Honeysuckle Hollow, that was owned by a deceased doctor who compassionately offered it as a haven for those needing a place to stay when they had no other options. Tessa wants to buy it, remodel it, and make it beautiful again.
Only one person, Crazy Kate, realizes how truly special the old home place really is. In fact—it’s magical. I really enjoyed this story....it made me feel good.
January 28, 2021
I have to admit that I chose this book due to the adorable cover and the storyline ended up being just as sweet as honeysuckle.
Tessa finds herself to be homeless after her condo floods. She just so happens upon a new listing for an old abandoned home (she's a real estate agent) that she is drawn to and commits to restoring to the beauty it once was. She learns that things aren't always as they seem and that people can surprise you. Although I found her character to be extremely whiny, emotional and too worried about what others think, often allowing them to influence her life's decisions, I ended up liking her by the end of the book. I believe that Paul, a handsome world traveler with roots in Mystic Water, had quite the effect on her which brought out her better qualities.
The food dishes and herbs throughout the book tended to take on a secondary storyline which attributed nicely and added a whimsical flavor overall.
The pace of the story unfolds nicely. The cast of characters will restore your faith in humanity and leave you with a smile on your face. If you are a fan of chic lit, then this is a pick yourself up and dust yourself off feel good story with a touch of romance, whimsy and magic for all to enjoy.
My rating scale
⭐️ Terrible in every way
⭐️⭐️ Meh
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Good
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Excellent, will cause book hangover
Tessa finds herself to be homeless after her condo floods. She just so happens upon a new listing for an old abandoned home (she's a real estate agent) that she is drawn to and commits to restoring to the beauty it once was. She learns that things aren't always as they seem and that people can surprise you. Although I found her character to be extremely whiny, emotional and too worried about what others think, often allowing them to influence her life's decisions, I ended up liking her by the end of the book. I believe that Paul, a handsome world traveler with roots in Mystic Water, had quite the effect on her which brought out her better qualities.
The food dishes and herbs throughout the book tended to take on a secondary storyline which attributed nicely and added a whimsical flavor overall.
The pace of the story unfolds nicely. The cast of characters will restore your faith in humanity and leave you with a smile on your face. If you are a fan of chic lit, then this is a pick yourself up and dust yourself off feel good story with a touch of romance, whimsy and magic for all to enjoy.
My rating scale
⭐️ Terrible in every way
⭐️⭐️ Meh
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Good
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Excellent, will cause book hangover
January 19, 2020
I've never heard of Jennifer Moorman before I picked up this book, so I was unaware that I had picked up a book that was technically part of the "Mystic Water" series. I do wish the books were numbered in its particular order so I know how much I've missed in the backstory and how much more I have to go!
Honeysuckle Hollow is a delightful tale set in the town of Mystic Water. The townspeople are quite a selection of characters, starting with Crazy Kate, an old woman who isn't taken very seriously by those around her, and ending with Tessa, a young woman who makes a list for all major life decisions. (Tessas makes me think of Rory Gilmore from "Gilmore Girls" with all her lists.)
I did some quick research on the series. I love the fact that each book in the series revolves around one specific character of Mystic Water is great. It allows us to get to know the townspeople better without disrupting the flow of the book. I just happened to pick up the book about Tessa, when I probably should have started with the one about Kate. (But I can be like Bob Ross and call this a "happy accident.")
Things I wasn't wild about:
1) Cohabiting with a guy who is basically a stranger. Okay, the owners of the diner (Scrambled) have a "long-lost son" who finally comes home, but still, it's a bit much to throw him in with Tessa right off the bat. I love their chemistry, but I wouldn't have chosen for them to cohabit so soon.
2) I was actually hoping for some ghost or spirit interaction. I know that the house, the garden, the lightning bugs, and the herbs have this magical appeal, but I was looking for more than that! (Call me a tad disappointed!) Maybe the other books will step it up? I can hope, right?
I think we can continue to expect interesting books from Jennifer Moorman.
Honeysuckle Hollow is a delightful tale set in the town of Mystic Water. The townspeople are quite a selection of characters, starting with Crazy Kate, an old woman who isn't taken very seriously by those around her, and ending with Tessa, a young woman who makes a list for all major life decisions. (Tessas makes me think of Rory Gilmore from "Gilmore Girls" with all her lists.)
I did some quick research on the series. I love the fact that each book in the series revolves around one specific character of Mystic Water is great. It allows us to get to know the townspeople better without disrupting the flow of the book. I just happened to pick up the book about Tessa, when I probably should have started with the one about Kate. (But I can be like Bob Ross and call this a "happy accident.")
Things I wasn't wild about:
1) Cohabiting with a guy who is basically a stranger. Okay, the owners of the diner (Scrambled) have a "long-lost son" who finally comes home, but still, it's a bit much to throw him in with Tessa right off the bat. I love their chemistry, but I wouldn't have chosen for them to cohabit so soon.
2) I was actually hoping for some ghost or spirit interaction. I know that the house, the garden, the lightning bugs, and the herbs have this magical appeal, but I was looking for more than that! (Call me a tad disappointed!) Maybe the other books will step it up? I can hope, right?
I think we can continue to expect interesting books from Jennifer Moorman.
May 31, 2023
This one was so sweet. I loved the history of the town, catching up with all the characters and seeing Tess as a strong woman instead of a side kick
I ADORE this series
****april/may 2023- read the enhanced and retitled version A SLICE OF COURAGE QUICHE. The additional story made my heart happy.
I ADORE this series
****april/may 2023- read the enhanced and retitled version A SLICE OF COURAGE QUICHE. The additional story made my heart happy.
July 11, 2015
This was such a sweet book... I really hope we're going to revisit honeysuckle hollow again....
November 15, 2017
Magical!
Such a nice and feel good book. Loved it... Makes me think that world would be a better place if it had people as in hypothetical Mystic Water town.
Such a nice and feel good book. Loved it... Makes me think that world would be a better place if it had people as in hypothetical Mystic Water town.
January 31, 2017
*** I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FREE FROM GOODREADS FIRST READS ***
This was a super cute book. I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline. I liked it so much that I was thrilled to learn that the author has more novels out and I can't wait to get started on those too. The only thing I found troubling about this book was the amount of eggs the characters consume... That can't be healthy! =)
This was a super cute book. I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline. I liked it so much that I was thrilled to learn that the author has more novels out and I can't wait to get started on those too. The only thing I found troubling about this book was the amount of eggs the characters consume... That can't be healthy! =)
February 3, 2016
A wonderfully well-written book i enjoyed reading. This story has a a lot of plot twist surprises and a few new ways of rethinking. This book did not disappoint me in any way. Loved the recipes that were written i so wanted to eat some of that food. A must read book full of surprises.
August 21, 2020
I had such a lovely visit to Mystic Water - the town created by author Jennifer Moorman that is full of magic and where anything can happen. In her book,Honeysuckle Hollow, you can rest easy - the ride you take is enchanting and fun - with good surprises. This book is one in a series that focuses on different town members, but you don't have to read them in order.
There is love, magic, food and mystery in this story that allows the reader to escape for a day or two - and close the book with a satisfying sign.
This story is about Tessa - a real estate agent looking for love and who in her personal life cannot easily make decisions. When a storm destroys her condo home she finds herself without a home and needs to use her real estate skills, and sharpen her decision-making skills, to weather this newest life challenge.
Forced to find housing, she ends up staying at the apartment above the local diner. Of course, the owners have a handsome and witty son who returns to Mystic Water and also needs to stay in the same apartment. At the same time the owner of a local historic home wants to sell the home and it literally falls into Tessa's lap - it can be hers for the right price - but it needs a lot of work.
Throw in a magical garden with herbs and a local woman named Crazy Kate who seems to know everything about Tessa and the future - and you have the ingredients of a delightful read.
Read this if you want to escape and travel to a town where people love and support each other. Read this if you like a little magical realism, delightful food connections and a love story.
You will enjoy the trip!
There is love, magic, food and mystery in this story that allows the reader to escape for a day or two - and close the book with a satisfying sign.
This story is about Tessa - a real estate agent looking for love and who in her personal life cannot easily make decisions. When a storm destroys her condo home she finds herself without a home and needs to use her real estate skills, and sharpen her decision-making skills, to weather this newest life challenge.
Forced to find housing, she ends up staying at the apartment above the local diner. Of course, the owners have a handsome and witty son who returns to Mystic Water and also needs to stay in the same apartment. At the same time the owner of a local historic home wants to sell the home and it literally falls into Tessa's lap - it can be hers for the right price - but it needs a lot of work.
Throw in a magical garden with herbs and a local woman named Crazy Kate who seems to know everything about Tessa and the future - and you have the ingredients of a delightful read.
Read this if you want to escape and travel to a town where people love and support each other. Read this if you like a little magical realism, delightful food connections and a love story.
You will enjoy the trip!
June 8, 2019
Mediocre magical realism chick lit. The magical food concept isn't super unique, but it was done well. Tessa was kind of a pain in the ass and I wasn't sold on the insta-love between her and Paul. And I HATED how she kept referring to Kate as "Crazy Kate" even after she got to know her and Kate helped her save the house. Have some fucking respect! My other big gripe was how quickly and tidily the story wrapped up at the end. It didn't really match the pace of the rest of the book and felt rushed - big dramatic problem! Tessa's dreams are over! Next day, problem solved! Epilogue of everything working out perfectly! The end! Still, I do like the world it's set in (the lovely town of Mystic Waters) so will be checking out others in the series.
August 11, 2018
Family, friends, dreams and love...
They say that the best things in life are free, but they are also priceless. Tessa has a wonderful family, great friends, and a career she enjoys, but she’s missing two things, the heart of a dreamer and the love of her life. When a history-making flood comes to Mystic River, it feels like her “good life” has ended, but in fact it is only beginning. If you’re looking for a sweet story and reassurance that things always work out the way they’re supposed to in the end, then this book is for you!
They say that the best things in life are free, but they are also priceless. Tessa has a wonderful family, great friends, and a career she enjoys, but she’s missing two things, the heart of a dreamer and the love of her life. When a history-making flood comes to Mystic River, it feels like her “good life” has ended, but in fact it is only beginning. If you’re looking for a sweet story and reassurance that things always work out the way they’re supposed to in the end, then this book is for you!
July 28, 2019
Jennifer Moorman does it again. This book was such a delightful read. I loved heading back to Mystic Waters and seeing characters I was introduced to in Baker’s Man and Little Blackbird.
Like I have said before, these books should be Hallmark Movie Channel movies. Seriously, Jennifer, are you working on this? It could even be a Mystic Waters series!
I loved this book for the wholesome characters, for the kindness this small town embodies, and for the sweet love story that unfolds. Jennifer Moorman has the perfect recipe for a good book.
Like I have said before, these books should be Hallmark Movie Channel movies. Seriously, Jennifer, are you working on this? It could even be a Mystic Waters series!
I loved this book for the wholesome characters, for the kindness this small town embodies, and for the sweet love story that unfolds. Jennifer Moorman has the perfect recipe for a good book.
December 7, 2019
Interesting Situation & Characters
I enjoyed the setting and the main characters for helping each other to overcome adversity. The variety of characters was interesting as well, with restaurant owners, real estate brokers, scientists, and construction workers. Some supernatural influence adds some spice, but the writing and plot development just didn't keep me completely interested.
I enjoyed the setting and the main characters for helping each other to overcome adversity. The variety of characters was interesting as well, with restaurant owners, real estate brokers, scientists, and construction workers. Some supernatural influence adds some spice, but the writing and plot development just didn't keep me completely interested.
December 9, 2017
This was super cute! I loved how the town. me together to save the house, and I love how the relationship didn’t overshadow anything. And I love the magical realism in this book (fast becoming my favorite sub-genre!). I kind of with there were a sequel, but it does very well as a stand alone novel. More by this author to come!
September 18, 2017
Loved this book! The characters, the setting, the food (donut breakfast sandwich!)...perfect. Whimsical, with a touch of magic, everything had a personality, including Honeysuckle Hollow, the Great Pumpkin, even the mint plant! I loved Paul's literary and pop culture nicknames for everyone and everything (Huck Finn, Yardbird...). I will definitely be reading more of Jennifer Moorman's books. *Great read-alike for those who are a fan of Sarah Addison Allen.
September 24, 2017
Delightful escape!
I read for pure enjoyment and to escape from every day life. This story has it all: mystery, romance, friendship, magic, and happy endings. It was very well written and is the first e-book I have read without a single typo or spelling/grammar error! Truly delightful! I'll definitely be looking for more from this author.
I read for pure enjoyment and to escape from every day life. This story has it all: mystery, romance, friendship, magic, and happy endings. It was very well written and is the first e-book I have read without a single typo or spelling/grammar error! Truly delightful! I'll definitely be looking for more from this author.
January 2, 2020
Another enchanting read and follow up to Little Blackbird. Tessa has a dream of restoring Honeysuckle Hollow and comes across many obstacles along the way but faces each one head on. The characters and setting were magical. The story is one that draws you in quickly and makes you feel like you're a part of their story. I can't wait to read more novels by this enchanting author.
August 13, 2018
This may be the worst book I ever tried to read. I did attempt to read more but it was so absurd and just plain stupid I couldn’t. I am annoyed that I may have paid anything for this unreadable dreck and at the publisher for foisting this idiocy on the reading public.
August 30, 2018
Very charming read
I enjoyed the story's setting, the charm and kindness of the characters, even the slightly mystical aspects of the house and garden. NICE to read something positive and clean.
I enjoyed the story's setting, the charm and kindness of the characters, even the slightly mystical aspects of the house and garden. NICE to read something positive and clean.
September 15, 2017
Easy, happy book.
September 27, 2017
This was a feel good story perfect to read over a relaxing weekend.
October 30, 2017
Easy to read romance with a fun premise. It does a great job of keeping you interested. The main character is a bit immature & the story is rather unrealistic, but we’re not writing a Pulitzer here.
August 13, 2018
Enjoyable
Great characters great location love small town storyline great plot line happy ending of course small town comes together amen
Great characters great location love small town storyline great plot line happy ending of course small town comes together amen
December 5, 2018
Honeysuckle hollow
Loved this story. Would love to read a sequel to it. This is my first read by this author and not my last.
Loved this story. Would love to read a sequel to it. This is my first read by this author and not my last.
March 28, 2019
Wholesome and adorable. Sometimes you just need an incredibly light rom-com-esque read on a rainy Autumnal day!
September 1, 2020
I'm barely half-way through this book, and I'm already in love with it! Jennifer Moorman is one of my favorite writers, and while her first book, The Baker's Man is my all time favorite, Honeysuckle Hollow is very quickly becoming my #1 too!! Highly, highly recommended!
September 26, 2015
Reading challenge #49 A book based entirely on its cover.
A really lovely story. Subtle love story between Tess and Paul that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Tess loses her home due to a flood and is forced to find another place to live in. Kind people who run a cafe allow her to stay in their son`s (who is a travel writer and has not been home for years) apartment. Tess is a estate agent. She comes across Honeysuckle Hollow, a historical house that has offered safe haven to people in need. Suddenly Paul, the travel writer and prodical son is back and things evolve from there.
It takes time for Tess to realise she wants Honeysuckle Hollow to be hers.
What irritated me was naming Kate Muir Crazy Kate throughout the entire book. Why was that necessary?
A really lovely story. Subtle love story between Tess and Paul that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Tess loses her home due to a flood and is forced to find another place to live in. Kind people who run a cafe allow her to stay in their son`s (who is a travel writer and has not been home for years) apartment. Tess is a estate agent. She comes across Honeysuckle Hollow, a historical house that has offered safe haven to people in need. Suddenly Paul, the travel writer and prodical son is back and things evolve from there.
It takes time for Tess to realise she wants Honeysuckle Hollow to be hers.
What irritated me was naming Kate Muir Crazy Kate throughout the entire book. Why was that necessary?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews