Picnic in Someday Valley

 

New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas continues her charming and heartwarming series set in Honey Creek, Texas, a little town nestled in the rolling hills bordering the Brazos River, where friendship and love are always close at hand, ties run deep, and lives intersect in unexpected ways...Filled with Jodi's characteristic warmth, endearing characters, and authentic Texan flair, this story about a quiet cowboy and the local outcast adds layers of complexity and pathos to the continuing saga of this little town.

Marcie Latimer longs to run away from Someday Valley--especially since her ex-boyfriend spun a web of lies that almost led to tragedy in neighboring Honey Creek. Little wonder so many locals have turned their backs on her. But not Brand Rodgers. The quiet cowboy comes to listen every time she sings at Bandit's Bar, offering a glimpse of safety and calm that Marcie's rarely known.

After Texas Ranger Colby McBride saved Honey Creek's mayor, Piper Mackenzie, from a fire, she claimed him with a kiss. That was five months ago, and Colby still isn't sure where they're headed. Piper loves her town--but does she love Colby? And is he even ready for what comes next?

Pecos Smith, Honey Creek's emergency dispatcher, is grateful to have a new bride he adores and a baby on the way--even if one vital piece of the puzzle is missing. But as trouble comes stalking through the valley, lives will cross surprising paths. And Marcie, who's always felt that a forever love was out of reach, might discover that Someday is the perfect place to find it...

My Review

This is the second book in the Honey Creek series. You don't have to read these books in chronological order. Each can be read as a stand alone novel.  I have not read the first book in this newest series but I felt an instant connection towards everyone in this book and do want to go back and read the first book. I have been a fan of Jodi's for years. Her books are endearing as are her characters. They in turn become more than just characters in a story but like family and friends. 

There are so many people in this book...Marcie, Jesse, Colby, Brand, Adalee, Winston, Star, Pecos and Piper and the Sheriff. While, like I said, I liked everyone; I did find it a little hard to fully embrace all of them as strongly. I would have liked there to have been about two, maybe three tops major storylines in this book versus so many storylines. They all kind of felt more like minor storylines with a lot of switching about from the various characters. Yet, I still enjoyed this book. Picnic in Someday Valley is a charming book filled with engaging characters. I look forward to visiting Honey Creek again.