What do you think?
Rate this book
Love in Harmony Valley #6
A Small Town Memory: Heartfelt Women's Fiction
A heartwarming, small town romance about the courage to move forward and leave the past behind from USA Today Bestselling author Melinda Curtis.
" Melinda Curtis captured my heart with her wonderful characters and tender romance . " Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
I think I’m your wife…
Master Baker Jessica Aguirre arrives in Harmony Valley intent upon finding the father of her unborn child. If only she knew who he was. An accident may have damaged the relevant parts of this expectant mother's memory, but when she sees Duffy Dufraine’s handsome face, she’s convinced he’s the man who haunts her memories.
But memory can be an elusive thing…
The man she’s looking for – Duffy’s dead twin – was no angel. He was a con man, one who swindled his family and may have cheated Jessica out of her savings. Duffy hated him. Jessica should just walk away. But being near Duffy brings back snatches of memory and increasingly she’s finding it hard to walk away from this wounded man.
Fans of movies like The Vow, Overboard and 50 First Dates will love this heartfelt, sweet romance with a happily-ever-after.
Readers love Forever Family in a Small
“ This is a very heartwarming and emotional story …I loved every minute of this book!” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ This is a fabulous story of these two finding answers for the past and forging a future together.” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ Especially enjoyable is Jess's strength in the face of so many daunting experiences. ” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ This is such an emotional love story . I couldn't put this book down until I knew that Duffy and Jess would get their HEA. ” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
Previously published as A Memory Away.
" Melinda Curtis captured my heart with her wonderful characters and tender romance . " Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
I think I’m your wife…
Master Baker Jessica Aguirre arrives in Harmony Valley intent upon finding the father of her unborn child. If only she knew who he was. An accident may have damaged the relevant parts of this expectant mother's memory, but when she sees Duffy Dufraine’s handsome face, she’s convinced he’s the man who haunts her memories.
But memory can be an elusive thing…
The man she’s looking for – Duffy’s dead twin – was no angel. He was a con man, one who swindled his family and may have cheated Jessica out of her savings. Duffy hated him. Jessica should just walk away. But being near Duffy brings back snatches of memory and increasingly she’s finding it hard to walk away from this wounded man.
Fans of movies like The Vow, Overboard and 50 First Dates will love this heartfelt, sweet romance with a happily-ever-after.
Readers love Forever Family in a Small
“ This is a very heartwarming and emotional story …I loved every minute of this book!” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ This is a fabulous story of these two finding answers for the past and forging a future together.” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ Especially enjoyable is Jess's strength in the face of so many daunting experiences. ” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
“ This is such an emotional love story . I couldn't put this book down until I knew that Duffy and Jess would get their HEA. ” Goodreads Reviewer, 5 Stars
Previously published as A Memory Away.
244 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2015
56 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Curtis
258 books1,296 followersPrior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.
Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.
Sign up for her newsletter on her website to receive two free reads.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 16, 2015
A Memory Away is a continuation into the lives of the residents in Harmony Valley. In this tale, we meet a couple of new characters - Jessica (Jess) and Duffy. Jessica is suffering from amnesia after a car accident. She only has sketchy memories of her recent life and cannot remember at all who the father of her baby is. Then, she sees a picture in the newspaper and notices a familiar face - even if she can't remember his name.
Duffy thinks he's moving on in his life after the bitter betrayal and thieving ways of his twin brother, Greg. The brother who he's had to clean up after. The brother who died 5 months ago. When a woman enters the winery where he works and declares that she thinks she's his wife, he is immediately defensive because she's mistaking him with his brother and anyone associated with Greg must be a crook.
What happens next is a tale of how two damaged people learn to forgive and set aside their past hurts to move forward in life. Can Duffy forgive his brother for what he did to the family? Can Jessica remember her recent past? Can she move on after the betrayals she's experienced? Can she learn to accept a gift and not think of it as charity?
I really liked the general flow and development of the characters. I liked how they were open to change. I also liked how we get to revisit characters from the previous Harmony Valley books and get to have a sort of epilogue for them. And, I especially liked the ongoing saga of the senior citizens of Harmony Valley and all of their escapades.
My one complaint would be the ending. I would have liked a bit more closure to the story. I can only hope that we get to revisit Jess & Duffy in the next book and see what happens next for the.
Romance - PG - a few kisses
Language - PG
My rating - 5 stars
Duffy thinks he's moving on in his life after the bitter betrayal and thieving ways of his twin brother, Greg. The brother who he's had to clean up after. The brother who died 5 months ago. When a woman enters the winery where he works and declares that she thinks she's his wife, he is immediately defensive because she's mistaking him with his brother and anyone associated with Greg must be a crook.
What happens next is a tale of how two damaged people learn to forgive and set aside their past hurts to move forward in life. Can Duffy forgive his brother for what he did to the family? Can Jessica remember her recent past? Can she move on after the betrayals she's experienced? Can she learn to accept a gift and not think of it as charity?
I really liked the general flow and development of the characters. I liked how they were open to change. I also liked how we get to revisit characters from the previous Harmony Valley books and get to have a sort of epilogue for them. And, I especially liked the ongoing saga of the senior citizens of Harmony Valley and all of their escapades.
My one complaint would be the ending. I would have liked a bit more closure to the story. I can only hope that we get to revisit Jess & Duffy in the next book and see what happens next for the.
Romance - PG - a few kisses
Language - PG
My rating - 5 stars
December 16, 2015
A Harmony Valley story that gives me hope there will be more of them. The notion that a little town is mostly peopled by old folks and that when they're gone, the town will also die, struck me as an aaah moment. But then here come three tech millionaires to the rescue who want to save the town. But doing so requires that they bring in new people. The winery manager is the surviving twin, Duffy Dufraine, whose brother's actions before his death created havoc and heartache for nearly everyone he met. That includes Jessica Aguirre, a master baker, who shows up 7 months pregnant, looking for Greg, or may just his family. She's suffering a kind of amnesia that prevents her from remembering everything that happened both and after Greg stole her money, too.
When a deluge of rain and flooding force Duffy and Jessica to share his house for a couple of nights, the rumors begin flying, egged on by Duffy's batty old neighbor, who still fancies herself an eye model, though she can't see worth a darn these days.
Especially enjoyable is Jess's strength in the face of so many daunting experiences, not least of which is wondering how she's going to have her dream of running her own bakery while also caring for a baby she insists will be loved like no one's loved a baby before. That she finds herself able to see past Greg's faults and also begins to recognize her feelings for Duff is a pleasure to behold. Worth reading in any season.
When a deluge of rain and flooding force Duffy and Jessica to share his house for a couple of nights, the rumors begin flying, egged on by Duffy's batty old neighbor, who still fancies herself an eye model, though she can't see worth a darn these days.
Especially enjoyable is Jess's strength in the face of so many daunting experiences, not least of which is wondering how she's going to have her dream of running her own bakery while also caring for a baby she insists will be loved like no one's loved a baby before. That she finds herself able to see past Greg's faults and also begins to recognize her feelings for Duff is a pleasure to behold. Worth reading in any season.
December 4, 2015
Jessica Aguirre is suffering from memory loss after an accident. She's come to Harmony Valley looking for the father of her unborn child. She desperately wants baby to have a loving family. She's stunned when she finds that her baby daddy is dead and that he had a twin brother. What's going to happen now? Duffy is sorry for Jessica. He knows that his brother was a con man. He wants to help this gentle woman. She doesn't deserve what Greg has done. Can these two find love and happiness after such a troubled start? Jessica is a strong woman who has endured abandonment by a careless mother. She wants baby to have the love and security that she never had. Baby will be surrounded by people who love him. Duffy doesn't want commitment. He has been the good son and stayed to take care of his parents when his brother stole from them and ran away. He's attracted to Jessica but he isn't willing accept the responsibility of a family. I knew these two belonged together, but I wasn't sure that they could get past their hang ups. I should have known that Harmony Valley and her people would work their magic. This is such an emotional love story. I couldn't put this book down until I knew that Duffy and Jess would get their HEA complete with baby and man's best friend. Melinda Curtis captured my heart with her wonderful characters and tender romance. I never miss a chance to visit Harmony Valley. I love this series.
August 8, 2023
This is a good, light romance with likable and realistically flawed characters. When Jessica comes to Harmony Valley, she has an agenda. She is pregnant and she knows what the father looks like but she doesn’t know his name. Convinced that she has found him when she meets Duffy, she is upset to find out that Duffy’s twin is the father of her baby and he happens to be deceased. So without the support she was seeking, she and Duffy form a semi-friendship. The story is simple and mostly predictable with a few twists along the way that kept me engaged. All in all, it’s a cute story with some laughs and some really serious moments, too, as Jessica and Duffy deal with their own problems and try to face a future that may offer some real challenges. This is a good addition to the series in Harmony Valley, and I enjoyed seeing the regular townspeople appear and offer advice and humor to the story.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
December 2, 2015
Yup, It's Just That Good
'A Memory Away' (Harmony Valley Series Book 6) by Melinda Curtis is another great book by this author. Melinda just has a way where she combines romance, humor, a little mystery, and some angst in a way that ends up as a wonderful story.
Once again, the story returns to Harmony Valley, a place that has some quirky, but interesting characters which always add a little extra flavor to the story without overshadowing the main characters and story line. Jessica Aguirre's first meeting with Michael "Duffy" Dufraine begins with the line, "I think I'm your wife." Needless to say, that was not the line Duffy was expecting. However, the author weaves her story in such a way that you just can't help smiling, sighing, screaming, laughing, and even crying. All of the emotions the characters experience are also experienced by the reader. That in itself is just one thing that captures you from beginning to end, and you'll be turning pages as fast as you can to see how it all turns out. Yup, it's just that good.
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and viewpoints are my own.
'A Memory Away' (Harmony Valley Series Book 6) by Melinda Curtis is another great book by this author. Melinda just has a way where she combines romance, humor, a little mystery, and some angst in a way that ends up as a wonderful story.
Once again, the story returns to Harmony Valley, a place that has some quirky, but interesting characters which always add a little extra flavor to the story without overshadowing the main characters and story line. Jessica Aguirre's first meeting with Michael "Duffy" Dufraine begins with the line, "I think I'm your wife." Needless to say, that was not the line Duffy was expecting. However, the author weaves her story in such a way that you just can't help smiling, sighing, screaming, laughing, and even crying. All of the emotions the characters experience are also experienced by the reader. That in itself is just one thing that captures you from beginning to end, and you'll be turning pages as fast as you can to see how it all turns out. Yup, it's just that good.
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and viewpoints are my own.
January 15, 2016
I expect quirky from Melinda Curtis and she has delivered in spades.
Jess and Duffy are well developed and interesting.
Harmony Valley is in a unique, revival situation and predominantly peopled with senior citizens.
This couple has weathered hard knocks and are struggling to find happiness..a satisfying tale.
One question I have is why does Jess have amnesia? That is never answered in the book.
Swindlers, Foster Care, Unforgiveness= topics.
This is the first book I have read of this new Harlequin series..wonder if I will like it as much as the Special Editions?
Jess and Duffy are well developed and interesting.
Harmony Valley is in a unique, revival situation and predominantly peopled with senior citizens.
This couple has weathered hard knocks and are struggling to find happiness..a satisfying tale.
One question I have is why does Jess have amnesia? That is never answered in the book.
Swindlers, Foster Care, Unforgiveness= topics.
This is the first book I have read of this new Harlequin series..wonder if I will like it as much as the Special Editions?
September 17, 2020
About the book
Duffy Dufraine just found out he's going to be an uncle. Jessica Aguirre came to Harmony Valley in search of the father of her unborn child, which is by no means him. An accident may have damaged the expectant mom's memory, but he knows his twin is the man she's looking for. But Greg's gone, which leaves Duffy the only family Jess has. And he has to make things right. Offering her a temporary place to stay seems an ideal short-term solution. Until she stirs desires that make the embattled vineyard manager rethink his own long-term game plan. Is he ready to offer Jess and her baby a home to call their own--with him?
Very good I loved how it all turn out. I highly recommend reading this.
Duffy Dufraine just found out he's going to be an uncle. Jessica Aguirre came to Harmony Valley in search of the father of her unborn child, which is by no means him. An accident may have damaged the expectant mom's memory, but he knows his twin is the man she's looking for. But Greg's gone, which leaves Duffy the only family Jess has. And he has to make things right. Offering her a temporary place to stay seems an ideal short-term solution. Until she stirs desires that make the embattled vineyard manager rethink his own long-term game plan. Is he ready to offer Jess and her baby a home to call their own--with him?
Very good I loved how it all turn out. I highly recommend reading this.
November 17, 2017
A Memory Away is the sixth book in Melinda Curtis' Harmony Valley series. It is a feel good story about Duffy Dufraine and Jessica Aguirre, strangers who meet after Duffy's twin brother dies. It is the story of learning how to trust, small town caring, family, independence, and responsibility. In addition to Duffy and Jessica, there are a slew of quirky secondary characters! I found this book entertaining because of the believable characters and small town setting. I look forward to reading other books by Melinda Curtis in the future.
October 18, 2019
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the full length novel Harlequin Heartwarming: A Harmony Valley Novel book 6: A Memory Away by Melinda Curtis and this review was given freely.
A family's struggle with finances and grief.
A story of accepting love, belonging, and the quirky caring family of Harmony Valley. After finally creating a secure future for his parents, Vineyard manager Duffy's life gets turned upside down when his deceased twin brother Greg's ex-girlfriend Jessica shows up in Harmony Valley pregnant and with amnesia.
I purchased a copy of the full length novel Harlequin Heartwarming: A Harmony Valley Novel book 6: A Memory Away by Melinda Curtis and this review was given freely.
A family's struggle with finances and grief.
A story of accepting love, belonging, and the quirky caring family of Harmony Valley. After finally creating a secure future for his parents, Vineyard manager Duffy's life gets turned upside down when his deceased twin brother Greg's ex-girlfriend Jessica shows up in Harmony Valley pregnant and with amnesia.
February 15, 2019
HEALING TOGETHER
The story is a great addition to the Harmony Valley series but will read well as a standalone. It is a story with an emotional plot, a great cast of characters, and two people finding happiness and healing.
I won an autographed copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.
The story is a great addition to the Harmony Valley series but will read well as a standalone. It is a story with an emotional plot, a great cast of characters, and two people finding happiness and healing.
I won an autographed copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.
January 1, 2025
She's searching for the father of her unborn child. She hasn't seen him since she was in the accident and lost her memory. How do you go up to someone and ask if they are the father?
The last thing he expected was for a stranger to ask if he knew her and created the baby. How does he react? If not him then who and where are they? What will she do when she learns the truth?
The last thing he expected was for a stranger to ask if he knew her and created the baby. How does he react? If not him then who and where are they? What will she do when she learns the truth?
October 14, 2025
a funny, quirky, interesting read. The characters are a real hoot!!! Duffy's dad was such a lovely, gracious person. Totally opposite to the mom!
Fell in love with Jess. Love her determination, integrity, her insights and straight talking, and her principles. She is a winner in my books! An entertaining read all around.
Fell in love with Jess. Love her determination, integrity, her insights and straight talking, and her principles. She is a winner in my books! An entertaining read all around.
December 23, 2022
I don't understand the high ratings and reviews I seem to see; as a standalone, this book made absolutely no sense to me. I kept going because everyone raved about it, but still no such luck.
June 1, 2024
Not A Good Read
This was my first book by this author ... Didn't enjoy this book at all, wasn't able to relate to the two main characters at all.
This was my first book by this author ... Didn't enjoy this book at all, wasn't able to relate to the two main characters at all.
June 20, 2024
This was an interesting story, a bit of amnesia, mistaken identity, twins, a con man. All worked out with a satisfying ending.
September 14, 2023
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
A Small Town Memory is the sixth title in the Love in Harmony Valley series. I love the quirkiness of this small town, or perhaps I should say the quirkiness of some of its residents. And those charms are in full view in Jess and Duffy’s story.
Jessica has come to Harmony Valley in search of connections. She’s recently been in an accident that left her with amnesia – oh, she knows some things with certainty, but there are other memories that just aren’t there or aren’t clear enough to know if they are things she’s experienced or things that she wants to have been real. One of those things is the truth about her baby’s daddy. She’s pregnant but there are gaps about the man she had to have been in love with, so she’s searching for connections… and not really prepared for what she’s about to discover.
Duffy is a loner, a man who is finally free of responsibilities after years of dealing with the fallout from his con artist brother’s actions that put their parents, their financial future at great risk. He’s currently managing the vineyards at the new winery in town, living on his own, and not about to give up his freedom for anything or anyone. All that’s about to change when a stranger mistakes him for his deceased brother. Duffy’s carefree life is about to get very complicated… and perhaps that freedom he’s protecting isn’t really being free of all the things that still churn inside him. He has to deal with the past before there’s any future ahead of him. And Jess, her baby, one stray pup, and a town full of good intentions is about to provide that for one lonely, stubborn man.
I enjoyed A Small Town Memory so much. It’s full of sadness and laughter, confusion and purpose, and folks who haven’t the slightest clue how to mind their own business. Small town living, you’ve got to love it. Jess will find her truth and so much more as this town embraces a single mom, a hard working woman, and the hope that she can bring to their town. I always enjoy falling back into this world full of goodhearted folks, a touch of drama, and solid friendships. Duffy and Jess’s story is well-written, with enough emotions to satisfy anyone. I had fun here, and would highly recommend not only this story but the entire series to any reader who loves getting lost in a small town with engaging stories to capture your heart and your imagination.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
A Small Town Memory is the sixth title in the Love in Harmony Valley series. I love the quirkiness of this small town, or perhaps I should say the quirkiness of some of its residents. And those charms are in full view in Jess and Duffy’s story.
Jessica has come to Harmony Valley in search of connections. She’s recently been in an accident that left her with amnesia – oh, she knows some things with certainty, but there are other memories that just aren’t there or aren’t clear enough to know if they are things she’s experienced or things that she wants to have been real. One of those things is the truth about her baby’s daddy. She’s pregnant but there are gaps about the man she had to have been in love with, so she’s searching for connections… and not really prepared for what she’s about to discover.
Duffy is a loner, a man who is finally free of responsibilities after years of dealing with the fallout from his con artist brother’s actions that put their parents, their financial future at great risk. He’s currently managing the vineyards at the new winery in town, living on his own, and not about to give up his freedom for anything or anyone. All that’s about to change when a stranger mistakes him for his deceased brother. Duffy’s carefree life is about to get very complicated… and perhaps that freedom he’s protecting isn’t really being free of all the things that still churn inside him. He has to deal with the past before there’s any future ahead of him. And Jess, her baby, one stray pup, and a town full of good intentions is about to provide that for one lonely, stubborn man.
I enjoyed A Small Town Memory so much. It’s full of sadness and laughter, confusion and purpose, and folks who haven’t the slightest clue how to mind their own business. Small town living, you’ve got to love it. Jess will find her truth and so much more as this town embraces a single mom, a hard working woman, and the hope that she can bring to their town. I always enjoy falling back into this world full of goodhearted folks, a touch of drama, and solid friendships. Duffy and Jess’s story is well-written, with enough emotions to satisfy anyone. I had fun here, and would highly recommend not only this story but the entire series to any reader who loves getting lost in a small town with engaging stories to capture your heart and your imagination.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
August 23, 2023
A Small Town Memory, #6 - Read any book's review in this series and they are the same. So is ASTM, another well written story with well thought out story lines, wonderful characters, good dialog and plenty of family, love, humor, strife, community, and no Stupidity Formula (terrible behavior, lack of communication, immaturity). Source: Booksprout. 5*
Love in Harmony Valley:
Dandelion Wishes, #1 - A sweet romance mixed with plenty of drama along with good characters, interesting story lines and a gamut of emotions. Love. Friendship. Forgiveness. The ability to accept and make changes. A bit on the intense side with the healing, the recognitions and the drama but a good story. 4*
A Small Town Second Chance, #2 - Now it's Flynn and Becca's story. This was a bit sad for me the end. The epilogue should have been included since it was so happy. Wonderful characters, huggable and likeable. Good story lines, too. 4*
A New Beginning in a Small Town, #3 - This book is all about new beginnings for many. Slade is a deep character caught in his own darkness, and his mind. Add the rest of the townspeople, his friends and his love interest to this well written story and you have a hard to put down story. 5*
A Small Town Summer, #4 - My favorite, so far! I really enjoyed reading this book, I couldn't put it down. Funny, entertaining and some sad bits. My favorite character, of the many good characters, is Mae, and her bridal shop, which felt like a character, too. This story is well written with no drama or silliness, immersing the reader into a comfortable, relaxing world of love, family and friends, and community. Of course, there are plenty of animals running amuck. There is bonus link, which is interesting, there's an update one month after the book ends. Source: Booksprout. 5*
Forever Family in a Small Town, #5 - I did not like Dylan's attitude about the colt, or Phantom, it was negative and full of self doubt, which horses sense, and slacked off in his duties. A good story but the alcoholism and the wounded horses made this a darker read than the previous book, which was full of joy and light. But this is real life and well told with the light as well as the dark. Guess who wins. 5*
Love in Harmony Valley end.
Love in Harmony Valley:
Dandelion Wishes, #1 - A sweet romance mixed with plenty of drama along with good characters, interesting story lines and a gamut of emotions. Love. Friendship. Forgiveness. The ability to accept and make changes. A bit on the intense side with the healing, the recognitions and the drama but a good story. 4*
A Small Town Second Chance, #2 - Now it's Flynn and Becca's story. This was a bit sad for me the end. The epilogue should have been included since it was so happy. Wonderful characters, huggable and likeable. Good story lines, too. 4*
A New Beginning in a Small Town, #3 - This book is all about new beginnings for many. Slade is a deep character caught in his own darkness, and his mind. Add the rest of the townspeople, his friends and his love interest to this well written story and you have a hard to put down story. 5*
A Small Town Summer, #4 - My favorite, so far! I really enjoyed reading this book, I couldn't put it down. Funny, entertaining and some sad bits. My favorite character, of the many good characters, is Mae, and her bridal shop, which felt like a character, too. This story is well written with no drama or silliness, immersing the reader into a comfortable, relaxing world of love, family and friends, and community. Of course, there are plenty of animals running amuck. There is bonus link, which is interesting, there's an update one month after the book ends. Source: Booksprout. 5*
Forever Family in a Small Town, #5 - I did not like Dylan's attitude about the colt, or Phantom, it was negative and full of self doubt, which horses sense, and slacked off in his duties. A good story but the alcoholism and the wounded horses made this a darker read than the previous book, which was full of joy and light. But this is real life and well told with the light as well as the dark. Guess who wins. 5*
Love in Harmony Valley end.
August 18, 2023
Jess shows up in Harmony Valley looking for her past. Specifically her husband or boyfriend. She is pregnant and had been in a car accident and lost her memory—retrograde amnesia. Seeing a newspaper clipping of the staff at the winery in Harmony Valley stirs her memory when she sees a familiar looking man. She meets him and discovers that he is not the baby’s father, Greg, but is his twin, Duffy.
Jess spent her childhood in a variety of homeless situations before her mother abandoned her to foster care, a loveless situation that left Jess longing for family and averse to anything that smacked of charity.
Harmony Valley could use a good bakery and coffee shop and Jess is a talented baker. Quitting her job and relocating to a new town when she is seven months pregnant, however, is a huge step to even consider.
I don’t want to include the many complications to the story that would be spoilers. Author Melinda Curtis does a great job of creating the scenarios and characters in A Small Town Memory. Duffy has good reasons for not wanting to have anything to do with Jess as do his parents. The elderly residents of Harmony Valley range from a curmudgeon with a shotgun to some sweet, nosy women who don’t mind encouraging romance while trying to save their town.
There are valuable lessons about giving and receiving kindness, forgiveness, and strength of character. Trust and family are also prominent themes. The protagonists, Jess and Duffy, are likable characters with hurts in their pasts. Goldie is a cute, spunky little dog that Duffy fosters. She teaches him that there are positives to responsibilities. The ever present silent character is “Baby,” as Jess refers to her unborn little one, saying things like “Baby doesn’t like spicy food.” The author describes the little one’s movements: "Baby bounced eagerly in her belly, ready for a sugar fix.” Duffy even learns to accept his neighbor Eunice with her gifts of odd foods and nosiness.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jess spent her childhood in a variety of homeless situations before her mother abandoned her to foster care, a loveless situation that left Jess longing for family and averse to anything that smacked of charity.
Harmony Valley could use a good bakery and coffee shop and Jess is a talented baker. Quitting her job and relocating to a new town when she is seven months pregnant, however, is a huge step to even consider.
I don’t want to include the many complications to the story that would be spoilers. Author Melinda Curtis does a great job of creating the scenarios and characters in A Small Town Memory. Duffy has good reasons for not wanting to have anything to do with Jess as do his parents. The elderly residents of Harmony Valley range from a curmudgeon with a shotgun to some sweet, nosy women who don’t mind encouraging romance while trying to save their town.
There are valuable lessons about giving and receiving kindness, forgiveness, and strength of character. Trust and family are also prominent themes. The protagonists, Jess and Duffy, are likable characters with hurts in their pasts. Goldie is a cute, spunky little dog that Duffy fosters. She teaches him that there are positives to responsibilities. The ever present silent character is “Baby,” as Jess refers to her unborn little one, saying things like “Baby doesn’t like spicy food.” The author describes the little one’s movements: "Baby bounced eagerly in her belly, ready for a sugar fix.” Duffy even learns to accept his neighbor Eunice with her gifts of odd foods and nosiness.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 6, 2015
What would you do if you showed up for work one day and very pregnant woman you have never met walks up and says "I think I am your wife."? That is what happened to Duffy, it didn't take him long to realize that Greg had left him another mess to clean up, expecially now that Greg was dead. His twin had been nothing but trouble, after stealing their parent's money, it seems this pregnant young woman was a victim as well.
Duffy had moved to Harmony Valley to live a life on his own, with no one to answer to and no connections. It was easier to not have anyone depend on you, you don't get hurt that way. Now this young woman, Jessica, was coming in and messing this all up.
Jessica Aguirre had been so excited when she saw the picture of the man in the newspaper. She thought she would finally get answers. She was pregnant and recovering from an accident where she had amnesia. She had bits and pieces of her memories, but not the big picture, The man in the picture, she remembered him in relation to her baby, but when she met the man she found out the father to her child was dead...what was she going to do? Greg, the father of her child, took her money and now she was 5 months pregnant and she didn't know what she would do next.
However, if the senior citizens of Harmoney Valley and the development authority had anything to do with it, Jessica and Duffy would find happiness with each other here in Harmony Valley. This book is a sweet story of softening hearts and understanding how letting go of the past is the only way for a bright future. It is a very sweet story that makes you feel good. Defintely one I would recommend!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review
Duffy had moved to Harmony Valley to live a life on his own, with no one to answer to and no connections. It was easier to not have anyone depend on you, you don't get hurt that way. Now this young woman, Jessica, was coming in and messing this all up.
Jessica Aguirre had been so excited when she saw the picture of the man in the newspaper. She thought she would finally get answers. She was pregnant and recovering from an accident where she had amnesia. She had bits and pieces of her memories, but not the big picture, The man in the picture, she remembered him in relation to her baby, but when she met the man she found out the father to her child was dead...what was she going to do? Greg, the father of her child, took her money and now she was 5 months pregnant and she didn't know what she would do next.
However, if the senior citizens of Harmoney Valley and the development authority had anything to do with it, Jessica and Duffy would find happiness with each other here in Harmony Valley. This book is a sweet story of softening hearts and understanding how letting go of the past is the only way for a bright future. It is a very sweet story that makes you feel good. Defintely one I would recommend!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review
June 8, 2023
Pregnant Jessica Aquirre is a master baker who got in an accident and lost her memory. Now she’s sees a picture of a man who she assumes is her baby’s father. She remembers that much. Now she confronts him but Duffy Dufraine has no idea who she is. Duffy, who works for the winery in Harmony Valley, is suspicious of Jess. He tells her it is his dead twin brother, Greg’s child. Duffy and his parents hurt, bitter and angry with Greg because he took all their life’s saving. Who wouldn’t be. They struggled for years after he left. So why is Jess here? They don’t trust her because of Greg. They haven’t forgiven him yet and may never. The townspeople people are excited to have a baker in town. They are trying to bring life back to the town. Now they’re offering her a place to open a business. Can she accept it? She hates charity. She wants to be independent and not owe anyone. All she’s ever wanted is to be loved and have a family. Will Jess accept the offer? She needs a home for her and her baby. What she doesn’t realize is that the town is one big family? Will the Dufraine’s accept her baby or will they stay angry and bitter? Will they let go of the past to move forward with life? Will Duffy and his parents remember the good times with Greg? Will Jess remember everything? She will be shocked if she does. Maybe this is the Dufraine’s second chance. The story is about loss, forgiveness, second chances and family. The characters are are wonderful. Melinda Curtis always brings you into the story. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.
November 18, 2015
I read this can't-put-it-down book in one day, which is very unusual for me. It was wonderful and is now my favorite Harmony Valley book until the next one is published. The author is very insightful in dealing with one's problems in everyday life. Michael, known as Duffy, has lost the ability to trust after his twin brother, Greg, betrayed his family. Jessica has been alone most of her life after her mom abandoned her at the tender age of nine. She never knew her father's name, much less anything about him. With temporary memory loss due to an accident, and with a baby who is due to be born in two months, she seeks answers to her amnesia, and what better way to do so then to find the man whose picture in the paper triggered part of her memory. She seeks him out in Harmony Valley, hoping to fill in the blanks of her mind. Instead of finding Greg, she finds his identical twin, Duffy, who lets her know that Greg is not alive anymore. This small town of about 100 people with a population of mostly elderly folks will grip your heart. They play a big part in this book with their quirky, grouchy, stubborn, and loving ways, and you will laugh with them and about them. They will do anything to bring more youth and businesses back to town, and will literally make it happen. I look forward to reading more books in this series, and treasure the ones that I have read. [I received this ARC from the author.]
May 23, 2016
Jessica Aguirre has a problem. After an accident, she is suffering from memory loss and cannot remember the father of her unborn child. She has found out his name and when she travels to Harmony Valley to see him, she finds out that he is dead. She finds this out by way of his brother Duffy, whom she mistakenly believes is her husband. Duffy wants to help Jessica, knowing that his brother did wrong by her before his death, leaving her broke and now seven months pregnant.
Duffy doesn’t want any sort of commitment after being the rock that held his family together when after his brother took off after stealing his parents’ savings. He has been doing his best to get them back above water and doesn’t want to be saddled with more. Unfortunately, the heart doesn’t always listen to what the mind wants and his feelings towards Jessica quickly move past brotherly and grow into something stronger. As Jessica finds out all of the faults with her dead lover, she realizes that the difference between he and Duffy are night and day, and she two quickly begins to fall for Duffy.
With a dead brother/baby daddy hovering in the way, Jessica and Duffy have more than their fair share of issues standing in their way of a happy ending. This is a tender romance that will break your heart and then piece it back together stronger than before. It is full of wonderful, complex characters and will have you waiting anxiously for Ms. Curtis’ next foray into Harmony Valley.
Duffy doesn’t want any sort of commitment after being the rock that held his family together when after his brother took off after stealing his parents’ savings. He has been doing his best to get them back above water and doesn’t want to be saddled with more. Unfortunately, the heart doesn’t always listen to what the mind wants and his feelings towards Jessica quickly move past brotherly and grow into something stronger. As Jessica finds out all of the faults with her dead lover, she realizes that the difference between he and Duffy are night and day, and she two quickly begins to fall for Duffy.
With a dead brother/baby daddy hovering in the way, Jessica and Duffy have more than their fair share of issues standing in their way of a happy ending. This is a tender romance that will break your heart and then piece it back together stronger than before. It is full of wonderful, complex characters and will have you waiting anxiously for Ms. Curtis’ next foray into Harmony Valley.
May 25, 2023
A Small Town Memory is the sixth story in the Love in Harmony Valley series but can be read as a stand alone however I suggest reading the prior stories for the entertainment. This is a story of finding peace and forgiveness after a tragedy and unexpected bundle bring two people together. Jessica is pregnant and doesn't quite know the father due to an accident that has left her with partial amnesia. Looking at a photo in a paper, she recognizes Duffy Dufraine and thinks he is the father. When she approaches him, he informs her that it was not him but his dead twin brother. He is instantly on his guard believing that she is a con artist just like his brother but the more time he spends with her the more he realizes that she was a victim too. Duffy can't let go of the anger towards his brother who stole all of their parents' money, leaving him to put his life on hold to take care of them. He is finally financially free and isn't looking to take on anymore responsibility for anyone else. Jessica is only looking for a place to feel wanted and refuses to take charity or be anyone's responsibility after growing up in the foster care system. The story that follows is a sweet, heartwarming romance with an adorable dog and a dotty neighbor added in for laughs.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
June 19, 2023
This is a great story and I really liked our main characters. We meet Jessica when she comes to the winery to meet with Duffy and when she thinks he’s his deceased twin Greg, they both realize (mostly Duffy at this point) that his brother hurt someone else and took her money. It was interesting to see how Duffy and his parents all handled Jessica and her situation. Duffy kind of wanted to believe she was on the up and up, his father was all in and her mother wanted nothing to do with her and if she was going to stick around, she wanted her to sign something waiving her right to anything from Greg and what she was offering Jessica was truly a slap in the face. I loved that Eunice had such a big part in this book and loved all of her unique breakfast concoctions that she would bring over to Jessica and Duffy. As always, I liked how Slade and Flynn just got to work with wanting to bring another person to live in town and this time they’ve recruited Jessica and made her a deal she can’t refuse to move and open up a bakery. There are a lot of ups and downs between Jessica and Duffy but I so enjoyed watching Duffy step up and make things right. Wonderful ending yet a little surprised about the detail that we found out, but I guess it’s a new beginning for everyone. Great Book and I’m really looking forward to Tracy’s book next.
September 9, 2023
I think this book is my favourite of the series so far. Once again, we see the residents of Harmony Valley supporting and meddling. After cleaning up his deceased and duplicitous twin brother Greg’s messes for years, Duffy just wants a break from any responsibility. “‘You have this foolish idea…that life owes you a responsibility-free period because you’ve had some struggles.’” It’s easier said than done. Especially once Jessica, with amnesia from a car accident, shows up pregnant with Greg’s baby, after recognizing a picture of Duffy and thinking he’s Greg. Jessica has no family of her own and is desperate to make connections. Layer this with a lonely and nosy elderly neighbour, who provides the third POV, like in the other books in the series. The plot sounds kind of like a melodramatic soap opera, right? But it doesn’t actually feel like that during the reading. It was actually very engaging and I really enjoyed it. There are some pretty humorous moments and lots of sweet ones. This book is part of a series, so there is some carryover, but this book reads well as a standalone. This is a sweet and clean story other than a few very mild references related mostly to Jessica’s pregnancy. There is no harsh language.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2023
I think this book is my favourite of the series so far. Once again, we see the residents of Harmony Valley supporting and meddling. After cleaning up his deceased and duplicitous twin brother Greg’s messes for years, Duffy just wants a break from any responsibility. “‘You have this foolish idea…that life owes you a responsibility-free period because you’ve had some struggles.’” It’s easier said than done. Especially once Jessica, with amnesia from a car accident, shows up pregnant with Greg’s baby, after recognizing a picture of Duffy and thinking he’s Greg. Jessica has no family of her own and is desperate to make connections. Layer this with a lonely and nosy elderly neighbour, who provides the third POV, like in the other books in the series. The plot sounds kind of like a melodramatic soap opera, right? But it doesn’t actually feel like that during the reading. It was actually very engaging and I really enjoyed it. There are some pretty humorous moments and lots of sweet ones. This book is part of a series, so there is some carryover, but this book reads well as a standalone. This is a sweet and clean story other than a few very mild references related mostly to Jessica’s pregnancy. There is no harsh language.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2015
Jessica is looking to make connections. A young pregnant woman who never knew her own father and was abandoned by her mother, she was swindled by the father of her child and then suffered an accident that obliterated most of her memories of her lover. Upon her arrival in Harmony Valley, she is dismayed to discover that her baby's father is dead--but his twin brother is very much alive, yet broken and disillusioned by his own family experiences.
A Memory Away is part of the Harmony Valley series by Melinda Curtis. I have not read any other books in the series, but this novel stands on its own. It did, however, definitely whet my appetite to read more books in this series about a charming town (I'd love to live in a place like that!) Several supporting characters provided a fun touch of comic relief and were believably eccentric.
This sweet novel is just the type of story to convince readers that romance novels aren't all Gothic bodice-rippers. It was definitely a book I couldn't put down, and a few happy tears were shed while I read it.
My review is based on an advance reader copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. No compensation of any kind was received.
A Memory Away is part of the Harmony Valley series by Melinda Curtis. I have not read any other books in the series, but this novel stands on its own. It did, however, definitely whet my appetite to read more books in this series about a charming town (I'd love to live in a place like that!) Several supporting characters provided a fun touch of comic relief and were believably eccentric.
This sweet novel is just the type of story to convince readers that romance novels aren't all Gothic bodice-rippers. It was definitely a book I couldn't put down, and a few happy tears were shed while I read it.
My review is based on an advance reader copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. No compensation of any kind was received.
May 23, 2023
I loved everything about this story! The main characters are believable and emotional. Both their lives have been difficult and tragic in different ways. Jessica's mom left her in foster care when she was young and she hasn't felt good enough ever since. All she wants is a family to call her own. So, when she ends of pregnant, then has amnesia, she sets out to find the father! Duffy has lived with the disaster that is his twin brother for years. He thought he'd finally cleaned up all of his messes now that his twin has died but then Jessica shows up claiming he's the father of her unborn baby! Well, of course it's his brother's baby! Finally Duffy is free of responsibilities and can live his life the way he wants - he doesn't want to have to take care of Jessica! The elderly folks in Harmony Valley, along with some other people there will have something to say about that! There was so much caring and heart in this story. I've loved this whole series. I love the antics of the older residents too!
July 28, 2016
A Memory Away ( A Harmony Valley Novel )
By: Melinda Curtis
A Memory Away is A Harmony Valley Novel . I have not read any of the others yet , but I did not have any problems following the story or the characters. Melinda Curtis captured me right at the start and did not let go till the end , and then I wanted more. She has me hooked and hopefully I will be reading more by this wonderful author. Jessica was in an accident and lost some of her memory . She has come to Harmony valley to see if she can find the father of her baby she is having . Duffy finds out from Jessica that his twin brother is the father of her baby . What is Jessica up to and what is she really wanting, money? I caught myself laughing at and some of Duffy’s neighbors. They are Quirky , funny, and really nosy . This is a heartwarming story that will have you reading faster so you can turn those pages faster to see what is going to happen next.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
By: Melinda Curtis
A Memory Away is A Harmony Valley Novel . I have not read any of the others yet , but I did not have any problems following the story or the characters. Melinda Curtis captured me right at the start and did not let go till the end , and then I wanted more. She has me hooked and hopefully I will be reading more by this wonderful author. Jessica was in an accident and lost some of her memory . She has come to Harmony valley to see if she can find the father of her baby she is having . Duffy finds out from Jessica that his twin brother is the father of her baby . What is Jessica up to and what is she really wanting, money? I caught myself laughing at and some of Duffy’s neighbors. They are Quirky , funny, and really nosy . This is a heartwarming story that will have you reading faster so you can turn those pages faster to see what is going to happen next.
I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
June 20, 2023
I am enjoying this series so much! After I finish a book this series, I think, how can the author top this book with the following one, but the next book is amazing also. Just as I felt after the previous book, I think this one is my favorite! I love this town of Harmony Valley. The characters embrace newcomers and make them feel as part of their family/community. That is what drew me into this story so much. The main female character, Jessica, is trying to be brave, but she needs support, even though she is reluctant to accept it. Duffy has a caring nature, and is trying to suppress it, but for people like him, that is difficult to do.
This is a beautiful story of breaking down barriers and allowing yourself to accept love and kindness. I will admit to shedding a few tears here and there. Very emotional and heartwarming!
This is a beautiful story of breaking down barriers and allowing yourself to accept love and kindness. I will admit to shedding a few tears here and there. Very emotional and heartwarming!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews