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Mystic Water #5

A Slice of Courage Quiche: A Southern Magical Realism Novel of Home, Second Chances, and Small-Town Charm

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Real estate agent Tessa Andrews believes she has her life all figured out, organized in meticulously numbered lists to ensure she doesn’t make bad decisions. But after eating a breakfast quiche and receiving a skeleton key to a dilapidated mansion, a reckless impulse overtakes her.

When torrential rains flood Mystic Water, Tessa’s condo drowns in floodwater. In need of a temporary residence, Tessa moves into an empty apartment above the local diner owned by the Borellis. While trying to help people find lodging while the flood recedes, a client sends Tessa a package containing a tarnished key belonging to a neglected historic mansion that is now on the market, and a whole new set of troubles arises, starting with the return of the Borellis’ prodigal son.

Paul Borelli, a travel journalist, shows up unexpectedly in Mystic Water and claims the apartment above the diner where Tessa has been staying. Now in need of another place to live, Tessa’s love of historic homes overtakes her logic, and she tosses aside her numbered lists, unloads her savings account, and buys the mansion with the intention to bring the grand beauty back to life.

Nearly everyone doubts Tessa’s sanity, but along the way she finds unlikely support in an ancient Cherokee spear, a traveling mint plant, and a journalist on the run from his past. Filled with charm, unexpected twists, and a touch of magic, A Slice of Courage Quiche is an enchanting tale of listening to one’s heart, camping indoors, and how acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

358 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2015

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About the author

Jennifer Moorman

24 books732 followers
Jennifer Moorman is a USA TODAY bestselling author known for her heart-forward stories filled with Southern charm, unforgettable characters, and a touch of everyday magic. Her novels include The Charmed Library, The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds, The Magic All Around, and the beloved Mystic Water Series. Her creative work also includes folklore retellings and the Strawberry Shortcake children’s books.

Praised by Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and others, Jennifer's writing has been described as “imbued with her trademark touch of magic,” “a seamless blend of history and magical realism,” and “absolutely mesmerizing,” "enchanting," and "unputdownable."

Before becoming a full-time author, Jennifer worked as a senior editor for HarperCollins, helping guide writers through the publishing process. She is also a former touring professional singer and the co-creator and cohost of the podcast One Happy Thing with fellow bestselling authors Kerry Anne King and Maddie Dawson.

Jennifer’s writing has appeared in publications including People, Parade, Writer’s Digest, and Women’s World.

Jennifer is also a sought-after keynote speaker who shares inspiring talks about creativity, storytelling, and the magic of following one’s dreams.

When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her testing a new recipe, chasing rainbows, or stargazing. Jennifer lives in a magic house in Nashville, Tennessee. Connect with Jennifer on her website, Instagram, Facebook, and Bookbub.

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5 stars
283 (44%)
4 stars
221 (34%)
3 stars
111 (17%)
2 stars
11 (1%)
1 star
6 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Anne.
601 reviews99 followers
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!
Profile Image for C..
770 reviews124 followers
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!
Profile Image for Linda Langford.
1,694 reviews14 followers
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.
Profile Image for Linda Langford.
1,694 reviews14 followers
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.
Profile Image for Teri.
123 reviews9 followers
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
Profile Image for Cayla.
1,119 reviews36 followers
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.
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
2,959 reviews445 followers
October 23, 2023
TITLE: A Slice of Courage Quiche
AUTHOR: Jennifer Moorman
PUB DATE: 09.20.2023 Now Available

𝘼 𝙎𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙚 by Jennifer Moorman’s book came at just the right time for me to read… I wanted a book that answers the questions of What if? What if I just had a little bit of courage? Just veering off from a life well planned? I immediately resonated with the character of real estate agent Tessa Andrews - whose life is meticulously planned until, torrential rains flood the town of Mystic Water, a sudden return of an unexpected son, and a skeleton key to a dilapidated mansion lands on Tessa’s hands. What we get is a beautiful Southern novel that made for an enjoyable and magical ride, a feel good read about taking a chance, a little romance, and how a community helps each other in times of need.
Profile Image for Marisa.
1,387 reviews120 followers
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.
Profile Image for Marran.
1,825 reviews24 followers
July 11, 2015
This was such a sweet book... I really hope we're going to revisit honeysuckle hollow again....
Profile Image for Colleen.
153 reviews1 follower
September 13, 2023
I received an ebook arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

The cover and premise was exactly what I was looking for.

This book was a steady 4 stars most of the read, until my first tear dropped. I was so caught up in the characters and what they were going through. Moorman spung a glimmering tale filled with food and small town love.

Some things were predictable but that didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the story that was unfolding. And it was nice watching Tessa grow more confident.

This was just the touch of magical realism I needed and I would suggest this book to those that love Heather Webber and Sarah Addison Allen.
Profile Image for Jamie.
40 reviews6 followers
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! =)
3 reviews1 follower
June 29, 2024
I genuinely loved the story, how it continued through all 3, however, the ridiculous use of “Crazy Kate” over and over caused me to drop it to 4 stars. It was used in every paragraph and sometimes twice on page 257. Once she established herself as a kind, helpful and giving person there was no reason to go on using the derogatory title!
Profile Image for Christine M in Texas (stamperlady50).
2,229 reviews281 followers
May 18, 2025
Enchanting!

Absolutely loved this book. Finding out you have a strength you never knew. Moormans books are always feel good books.

I loved the chapter titles with food references and how they blended with the topics in the novel.

Tessa knew she had to purchase this property regardless of other opinions. What she will find is a community, love and the strength she never knew.
729 reviews19 followers
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.
Profile Image for Laurie S..
220 reviews30 followers
March 2, 2024
Do you like Southern Comfort Food? Historic Homes that need a lot of love? Romance? Then this book is for you!
381 reviews6 followers
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!
Profile Image for Kristine.
499 reviews13 followers
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.
Profile Image for Jvermeersch.
1,579 reviews24 followers
July 18, 2026
Quite enjoyable! Liked the way it was written and how the story unfolded, liked the characters and their interactions, liked the entire mood.
The magical realism element was subtle enough; any more pronounced and it probably wouldn't have worked for me.
Accidentally started on this book without realizing it isn't the first one in a series. For a moment hesitated if this would spoil the series for me. But decided to go with it anyway as I was longing for a reno romance. Have to admit that I did expect more reno, that the novel actually even felt like it ended midway where I expected it to. But still: worth rereading, worth checking out the previous ones in this series as well.
Profile Image for Holley Hicks.
15 reviews
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!
Profile Image for Jessamyn Rock.
182 reviews2 followers
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.
375 reviews1 follower
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.
Profile Image for Jennifer Gallagher.
476 reviews19 followers
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!
Profile Image for Lonnie.
633 reviews53 followers
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.
5 reviews
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.
Profile Image for Natasha's Reviews.
1,234 reviews66 followers
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.
Profile Image for Leni.
201 reviews1 follower
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.
Profile Image for Jenny Metcalf.
8 reviews
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.
89 reviews3 followers
September 27, 2017
This was a feel good story perfect to read over a relaxing weekend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews