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Adams Grove #1
Sweet Tea and Secrets
When beloved town matriarch Pearl Clemmons dies on a warm June afternoon, the folks of Adams Grove, Virginia, can hardly believe it. Sure, Pearl was eighty-five years old, but everyone — particularly her granddaughter Jill — just assumed she would live forever. Now Jill must return home to settle Pearl’s estate, comfort a town in mourning . . . and face Garrett Malloy, the man who broke her heart years ago.
Making matters worse, a string of break-ins at the Clemmons place has Jill and the rest of the town on edge. She can’t imagine what Pearl possibly could have had that is worth stealing. But when Jill’s safety is threatened, she and Garrett must join forces to unearth Pearl’s secrets before someone else — someone dangerous — gets there first. Garrett may have been the last man Jill wanted to see, but now, she may not want to let him go.
Making matters worse, a string of break-ins at the Clemmons place has Jill and the rest of the town on edge. She can’t imagine what Pearl possibly could have had that is worth stealing. But when Jill’s safety is threatened, she and Garrett must join forces to unearth Pearl’s secrets before someone else — someone dangerous — gets there first. Garrett may have been the last man Jill wanted to see, but now, she may not want to let him go.
360 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2011
661 people are currently reading
4174 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Naigle
60 books2,190 followersNEW RELEASE: A South Hill Christmas Keepsake—out now!
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
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August 19, 2014
Hey Friends -- no fair for me to rate this one...I wrote it.
When beloved town matriarch Pearl Clemmons dies on a warm June afternoon, the folks of Adams Grove, Virginia, can hardly believe it. Sure, Pearl was eighty-five years old, but everyone—particularly her granddaughter Jill—just assumed she would live forever. Now Jill must return home to settle Pearl’s estate, comfort a town in mourning…and face Garrett Malloy, the man who broke her heart years ago.
I hope you'll fall in love with Adams Grove and join me for the rest of the series.
Out of Focus
Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes - coming April 2013
Out of Frame - coming Sept 2013
When beloved town matriarch Pearl Clemmons dies on a warm June afternoon, the folks of Adams Grove, Virginia, can hardly believe it. Sure, Pearl was eighty-five years old, but everyone—particularly her granddaughter Jill—just assumed she would live forever. Now Jill must return home to settle Pearl’s estate, comfort a town in mourning…and face Garrett Malloy, the man who broke her heart years ago.
I hope you'll fall in love with Adams Grove and join me for the rest of the series.
Out of Focus
Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes - coming April 2013
Out of Frame - coming Sept 2013
May 23, 2011
Betrayed by her long-time steady, Garrett Malloy, Jill Clemmons fled Adams Grove, Virginia to work for–and then live with--Bradley Kase. Now she’s returning, and memories of life in the small town, and her lingering and unwanted attraction to Garrett remain.
Grandma Pearl always said you should live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satan shudders and says, “Oh shit, she’s awake!” Hard advice for Jill to follow, even harder when she must come home to bury the woman who was mother and grandmother to her. Despite her high profile career with Kase’s foundation, Jill longs for the simplicity of Adams Grove, but how can she cope without the woman who raised her? And how can she cope when sexy architect/contractor Garrett feels a need to protect her?
While she was gone, Garrett made their dreams a reality with his upscale contracting business. He seems to have fulfilled the dreams they planned together. Even though Garrett’s success give Jill pause, she’s happy he succeeded but knows her life and future is with Bradley and the foundation which, without her expertise, would not be the success it is.
But things are not as simple as they appear. Instead of settling her grandmother’s estate and returning to Savannah, Jill finds it hard to leave the home where she grew up. Then things begin to happen: an unlocked door, a ransacked house, being shut up in an attic and having to escape by breaking through a wall. And that’s only for starters. As one event after another occurs, Garrett fears for Jill’s safety. And when the attacks get personal, they both must use their wits to outsmart a nemesis. But who is it and why would they want to hurt Jill?
Adams Grove has its share of secrets in this compelling story by Nancy Naigle. The wealth of small-town happenings, well-told back story, a cache of hidden love letters, and rich characterizations make Sweet Tea and Secrets a page turner. Grandma Pearl knew right away that Jill and Garrett were perfect for each other. Garrett sees it, too–he’s never stopped loving Jill. But life-threatening evens need to happen to make Jill see the obvious, and then, will it be too late?
You’ll love Garrett and Jill and Grandma Pearl. Even though dead, Pearl is a strong presence throughout this delightful sweet love story, spiced with suspense. Ms. Naigle has a distinct voice that will keep her on my “buy” list. I thoroughly enjoyed her debut novel with Turquoise Morning Press and think you will, too.
Grandma Pearl always said you should live your life in such a way that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, Satan shudders and says, “Oh shit, she’s awake!” Hard advice for Jill to follow, even harder when she must come home to bury the woman who was mother and grandmother to her. Despite her high profile career with Kase’s foundation, Jill longs for the simplicity of Adams Grove, but how can she cope without the woman who raised her? And how can she cope when sexy architect/contractor Garrett feels a need to protect her?
While she was gone, Garrett made their dreams a reality with his upscale contracting business. He seems to have fulfilled the dreams they planned together. Even though Garrett’s success give Jill pause, she’s happy he succeeded but knows her life and future is with Bradley and the foundation which, without her expertise, would not be the success it is.
But things are not as simple as they appear. Instead of settling her grandmother’s estate and returning to Savannah, Jill finds it hard to leave the home where she grew up. Then things begin to happen: an unlocked door, a ransacked house, being shut up in an attic and having to escape by breaking through a wall. And that’s only for starters. As one event after another occurs, Garrett fears for Jill’s safety. And when the attacks get personal, they both must use their wits to outsmart a nemesis. But who is it and why would they want to hurt Jill?
Adams Grove has its share of secrets in this compelling story by Nancy Naigle. The wealth of small-town happenings, well-told back story, a cache of hidden love letters, and rich characterizations make Sweet Tea and Secrets a page turner. Grandma Pearl knew right away that Jill and Garrett were perfect for each other. Garrett sees it, too–he’s never stopped loving Jill. But life-threatening evens need to happen to make Jill see the obvious, and then, will it be too late?
You’ll love Garrett and Jill and Grandma Pearl. Even though dead, Pearl is a strong presence throughout this delightful sweet love story, spiced with suspense. Ms. Naigle has a distinct voice that will keep her on my “buy” list. I thoroughly enjoyed her debut novel with Turquoise Morning Press and think you will, too.
January 4, 2017
I loved this one. It is the first in the Adams Grove series and it's very charming. I thought it was just wonderful. It's full of Southern hospitality in a close knit community and I very quickly got sucked in and was rooting for Jill and Garrett. There's a little hint of mystery and foul deeds scattered throughout the pages but at it's heart it's a romance. It's adorable.
It's standard fare in the 'small town romance' genre but that's part of the charm. I usually know from the first chapter how things will end but it's the getting there that's fun. All the little misunderstandings and obstacles and soul searching...I love all that.
It's predictable but very, very readable if you're a fan of this genre. It's a wonderful story and very well told. I will definitely be continuing on with this story, guaranteed.
I was prepared to give this one full stars, right up to the last chapter but the ending let it down for me. That tiny bit at the end to tie up the mystery was slightly disappointing. It's the only thing that let this down though and it doesn't harm the story at all, it just didn't make any sense to me.
There are a few recipes in a section at the end and I like that. Old family recipes are always fun to try out and I'll be giving these a try soon.
*Note - I was sent a copy of this by the publisher*
It's standard fare in the 'small town romance' genre but that's part of the charm. I usually know from the first chapter how things will end but it's the getting there that's fun. All the little misunderstandings and obstacles and soul searching...I love all that.
It's predictable but very, very readable if you're a fan of this genre. It's a wonderful story and very well told. I will definitely be continuing on with this story, guaranteed.
I was prepared to give this one full stars, right up to the last chapter but the ending let it down for me. That tiny bit at the end to tie up the mystery was slightly disappointing. It's the only thing that let this down though and it doesn't harm the story at all, it just didn't make any sense to me.
There are a few recipes in a section at the end and I like that. Old family recipes are always fun to try out and I'll be giving these a try soon.
*Note - I was sent a copy of this by the publisher*
Read
August 8, 2011 I have been in a reading rut, which I know I have mentioned in previous posts. Currently, if a book is not capturing my attention when starting it, I have just been getting bored. I want that read that is going to make me not want to put it down and see what happens. So, I sat on my couch and looked through my e-reader and I came across this one, Sweet Tea and Secrets: An Adams Grove Novel. I decided to give it a shot, see if this one could captivate me. It did, from the beginning. The grandmother Pearl caught my attention right away. She meddled in Jill's life and Garrett's. She knew these two needed to be together, even though Jill did not feel the same way. I was very sad that Peal passed away quickly in the book and Jill returned home to clean out the house and sell. Garrett is thrown right back into her life, the one man she was almost ready to marry. Thinking now that Bradly is the man of her dreams, as a reader we learn fast he is not the man he portrays to be.
The author does a wonderful job with emotions through out this book. As a reader I found myself teary eyed at times and other times smiling.
This is a fun little romance. Its very clean. There is a slight mystery in this book to help keep you focused. While this story line is a common story line, Nancy spices it up and puts her spin on it. She throws in some twists that lean you flipping through the pages.
I think this book is perfect for anyone who loves a good romance. Enjoys two people who are so right for one another find their way back to each other. There is a good bit of humor in this book too. Don't just take my word for it though, check it out.
The author does a wonderful job with emotions through out this book. As a reader I found myself teary eyed at times and other times smiling.
This is a fun little romance. Its very clean. There is a slight mystery in this book to help keep you focused. While this story line is a common story line, Nancy spices it up and puts her spin on it. She throws in some twists that lean you flipping through the pages.
I think this book is perfect for anyone who loves a good romance. Enjoys two people who are so right for one another find their way back to each other. There is a good bit of humor in this book too. Don't just take my word for it though, check it out.
July 18, 2011
In Adam Grove, Virginia, I was introduced to a lovely, talented, young woman named Jill Clemmons. Jill is instantly likable and we are thrown into a wonderful birthday scene of her Grandmother's.
The next scene has us in despair. Grandmother has passed and Jill not only needs to deal with the emptiness, but also a severe betrayal by her live-in boyfriend. Why the betrayal? Is something going on?
Naturally, Jill returns to Adam Grove and reunites with her former love, best friends, and the changes her life is now facing. These would be overwhelming in their own right, but, something is going on. Someone tries to hurt her Grandmother's dog, set the woods on fire, and also her home. Also, Garrett, Jill's former love is poisoned. Why?
This book is a love story but has the ribbon of suspense and mystery running throughout the entirety. You think the crime is obvious but, I assure you, it is not. This book was well written, cleverly plotted, and the characters are ranging from almost angelic to sinister and evil.
As a bonus, Ms. Naigle tosses in some Southern recipes as a treat which Clyde would agree with.
Enjoy this new, to me, Author and now to await her next release this November, of "Out of Focus" the next Adam Grove love mystery.
The next scene has us in despair. Grandmother has passed and Jill not only needs to deal with the emptiness, but also a severe betrayal by her live-in boyfriend. Why the betrayal? Is something going on?
Naturally, Jill returns to Adam Grove and reunites with her former love, best friends, and the changes her life is now facing. These would be overwhelming in their own right, but, something is going on. Someone tries to hurt her Grandmother's dog, set the woods on fire, and also her home. Also, Garrett, Jill's former love is poisoned. Why?
This book is a love story but has the ribbon of suspense and mystery running throughout the entirety. You think the crime is obvious but, I assure you, it is not. This book was well written, cleverly plotted, and the characters are ranging from almost angelic to sinister and evil.
As a bonus, Ms. Naigle tosses in some Southern recipes as a treat which Clyde would agree with.
Enjoy this new, to me, Author and now to await her next release this November, of "Out of Focus" the next Adam Grove love mystery.
July 1, 2017
This was a great read. I really enjoyed the story. Jill and Garrett grew up together and were each other's first loves. Then, Jill moved to Savannah and met someone new. However, Garrett never gave up on their love. When Jill's grandma Pearl dies, they are brought back together. I really loved Pearl's videos that she left behind. I love how she never gave up on Garrett and Jill. I thought Jill and Garrett were meant to be together. I felt bad for Jill because she left Garrett and met a jerk. I did not like him that much as you can tell right now. I am telling you, if this guy she dated after Garrett was real, I would probably slap him across the face. That is how much I disliked his character. I really enjoyed the mystery in the book. Although it was a small portion of the book, it was intriguing to read. The ending was great. I can't wait to continue the series. Overall, an enjoyable read.
June 12, 2012
Very sweet-natured story and lead protagonist with bite; after I finished I was craving two things: time with my grandmother and a glass of sweet tea (and I don't mean Lipton), the real kind that you enjoy while sitting in a rocking chair on a porch watching an afternoon thunderstorm roll in, in the south.
September 18, 2012
I was fortunate to receive a First Reads copy of this book. I enjoyed the small town setting and the characters. Good story line. Personally, I would have preferred a bit more mystery and a bit less romance for the mix. Good choice for an afternoon read.
June 6, 2015
Pearls of love and wisdom handed down from heaven.
Sweet southern goodness all around. Captivated by the plot and characters and looking forward to the second series. Good reading.
Sweet southern goodness all around. Captivated by the plot and characters and looking forward to the second series. Good reading.
April 19, 2012
Sweet Tea and Secrets by Nancy Naigle
Jill and Garrett grew up living in the same town but she got a career opportunity in another state and went for it.
Upon her grandmother dying she moved back to town to deal with the property and ran into her long lost friend.
Just simple free things one could do to show their affection towards one another was priceless.
In her will the grandmother, Pearl had plans for them to live together and then after a set period of time if it hadn't worked out they could separate and divide the proceeds. Some of her land would go to him for his dream, Bridal Path Estates a charity for children.
While he heads out of state to deal with his business problem she heads back to where she works for Hase Foundation and her boyfriend to tell him she has to leave. What she finds when she arrives is beyond shock.
House breakin's and other dangerous attempts as she searched in the attic, papers from her grandfather that she never even knew about-trying to find the connection with it all.
Hearing about the treasure hunter and his fortune and how they go about discovering what it is and where.
Poisoned food, fires and more to get her out of her house are enough to combat. And she doens't know why these things are happening.
Love that I have a connection with Blacksburg, knitting, gardening and pearls.
Love recipes at the end.
Jill and Garrett grew up living in the same town but she got a career opportunity in another state and went for it.
Upon her grandmother dying she moved back to town to deal with the property and ran into her long lost friend.
Just simple free things one could do to show their affection towards one another was priceless.
In her will the grandmother, Pearl had plans for them to live together and then after a set period of time if it hadn't worked out they could separate and divide the proceeds. Some of her land would go to him for his dream, Bridal Path Estates a charity for children.
While he heads out of state to deal with his business problem she heads back to where she works for Hase Foundation and her boyfriend to tell him she has to leave. What she finds when she arrives is beyond shock.
House breakin's and other dangerous attempts as she searched in the attic, papers from her grandfather that she never even knew about-trying to find the connection with it all.
Hearing about the treasure hunter and his fortune and how they go about discovering what it is and where.
Poisoned food, fires and more to get her out of her house are enough to combat. And she doens't know why these things are happening.
Love that I have a connection with Blacksburg, knitting, gardening and pearls.
Love recipes at the end.
May 22, 2015
Re-read May 2015
This was a nice low-key romantic suspense. Part of the charm was in the setting of the small town in Virginia. The heroine, Jill, returns there when her beloved grandmother dies and things reignite with an ex-boyfriend. This one of those cozy romances. There was lots of action but there was also strong interaction between likeable townspeople. The brief appearance of the grandmother, Pearl, at the beginning was a total treat. And throughout the story, were these wonderful yummy recipes. Oh my God, I love my Southern home cooking and I can't wait to try some of these out for myself!
If you like steamy love stories, you won't get it here. I would have liked more passion between the hero and heroine but they made an appealing couple that you really wanted to see together.
Now on to the mystery/suspense. It was well-crafted and moved along with just the right pace for this small, cozy town. I was hooked throughout. It may be because I've read so many of these but I pegged the villain pretty much from the start. But that didn't stop my enjoyment. I got caught up in some exciting scenes.
This was a nice low-key romantic suspense. Part of the charm was in the setting of the small town in Virginia. The heroine, Jill, returns there when her beloved grandmother dies and things reignite with an ex-boyfriend. This one of those cozy romances. There was lots of action but there was also strong interaction between likeable townspeople. The brief appearance of the grandmother, Pearl, at the beginning was a total treat. And throughout the story, were these wonderful yummy recipes. Oh my God, I love my Southern home cooking and I can't wait to try some of these out for myself!
If you like steamy love stories, you won't get it here. I would have liked more passion between the hero and heroine but they made an appealing couple that you really wanted to see together.
Now on to the mystery/suspense. It was well-crafted and moved along with just the right pace for this small, cozy town. I was hooked throughout. It may be because I've read so many of these but I pegged the villain pretty much from the start. But that didn't stop my enjoyment. I got caught up in some exciting scenes.
August 15, 2015
Small towns lend themselves to stories, and Adams Grove in Virginia provides a picturesque setting for this sweet, clean romantic novel. Although romance is not my favourite genre, I found this book relaxing and enjoyable to read. The main characters are well depicted and credible, and the plot is satisfyingly constructed with good pacing and drama. Being a stickler about writing style, I also found the book well-written, with good attention to dialogue and theme.
February 16, 2014
This is a series with pretty good ratings. I looked. Honest I did. So I felt safe giving this cozy author a try. Especially at 99¢. Ugh, I just can't finish it. The writing is so poor and it is so repetitive. And anyone who uses the line "she could care less", should not be writing anything, in my opinion.
July 26, 2011
Ms. Naigle brings us a wonderful slice of small-town America in a distinctly southern voice that makes me want to drown my hurry-up city ways in my own home-made pitcher of sweet tea! :-) Can't wait to try some of the recipes in the book too. Nice job!
October 29, 2012
Nancy Naigle has a talent for writing setting as an actual character. I fell in love with Adam's Grove and the special quirks that make small towns so special. I enjoyed getting to know Jill, Garrett and Clyde. Can't wait for the next Adam's Grove book!
November 10, 2012
Such a delightfully southern book! I loved the hero and heroine; they were meant for each other. The small town feel, the colorful secondary characters, the big, fuzzy, slobbery dog--all made for a wonderful reading experience!
October 13, 2013
Wonderfully sweet love story with tons of Southern charm. The reunion of Jill and Garrett has you rooting for the couple from the beginning. The book is filled with humor, mystery & romance. A light easy read I recommend.
April 28, 2016
Great characters and an engaging story. I really like Ms. Naigle's writing style. The flow is good and so is the pacing. I can't wait to read the other books in this series. They're in KU and you can listen to the audio for free. The narrator is very good. Happy reading!
June 11, 2011
Great summertime read.
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December 6, 2015
Two-haiku review:
He cheated on her
So she dumped him, moved away
Returns for grandma
All not as it seems
Mystery and mild romance
Just what I wanted
He cheated on her
So she dumped him, moved away
Returns for grandma
All not as it seems
Mystery and mild romance
Just what I wanted
December 27, 2017
Questo è il primo romanzo che leggo dell'autrice. L'ho trovata una lettura deliziosa, fresca e intelligente. Non è una storia che si prende troppo sul serio, e punta all'intrattenimento più che a mandare chissà che messaggio, ma è rassicurante, tenera e ben scritta, per cui si legge in pochi giorni.
Purtroppo di quest'autrice non è ancora stato tradotto nient'altro, quindi spero che presto Amazon faccia un regalo alle fan italiane e ci permetta di leggere almeno il secondo volume della serie.
Siamo ad Adams Grove, un paesino di campagna della Virginia, e all'ambientazione è dedicata la serie - o almeno credo - che presumo riunisca storie diverse degli abitanti di questo spicchio di paradiso, pieno di ranch, case coloniali con grandi portici e un emporio rifornito di ogni ben di dio.
La protagonista, Jill Clemmons, scappa da Adams Grove e si trasferisce in città, diventando una donna sofisticata e lavorando come braccio destro del suo nuovo compagno, un uomo facoltoso che organizza raccolte fondi e cene di beneficenza.
Ma ad Adams Grove Jill ha lasciato il cuore: la nonna Pearl, che l'ha cresciuta come una figlia; e Garrett Malloy, promesso sposo e fidanzato di sempre, che l'ha tradita a un passo dal matrimonio.
Come sempre accade in storie come questa, Jill sarà costretta a tornare nella casa della nonna, da cui inizierà un lungo e tortuoso percorso di conoscenza di sé. La ragazza dovrà infatti scavare nel passato di Pearl, che ha disseminato la casa di indizi per raccontarle una storia troppo dolorosa da svelare a parole, finché la nonna era ancora in vita.
Jill si immergerà nel passato e come sempre, svelando alcuni retroscena che la riguardano più o meno direttamente, la ragazza scoprirà quali sono i suoi reali desideri e qual è la sua vera natura, decidendo con chi e dove desidera passare veramente il resto della sua vita.
Ad un certo punto alla ragazza verrà chiesto anche di svelare un mistero celato da anni, e alla vena romance della storia si aggiunge una spruzzata di mistero, che porterà il lettore a una caccia al tesoro organizzata da tempo da Pearl.
Non posso dire che il finale non sia scontato e che il lettore comprenda molto prima della protagonista alcuni retroscena, ma è davvero un romanzo carino, con cui passare un paio d'ore liete, senza pretese e senza alcuna difficoltà nella lettura, che è resa semplice dalle scelte lessicali e dall'ottima traduzione.
Purtroppo di quest'autrice non è ancora stato tradotto nient'altro, quindi spero che presto Amazon faccia un regalo alle fan italiane e ci permetta di leggere almeno il secondo volume della serie.
Siamo ad Adams Grove, un paesino di campagna della Virginia, e all'ambientazione è dedicata la serie - o almeno credo - che presumo riunisca storie diverse degli abitanti di questo spicchio di paradiso, pieno di ranch, case coloniali con grandi portici e un emporio rifornito di ogni ben di dio.
La protagonista, Jill Clemmons, scappa da Adams Grove e si trasferisce in città, diventando una donna sofisticata e lavorando come braccio destro del suo nuovo compagno, un uomo facoltoso che organizza raccolte fondi e cene di beneficenza.
Ma ad Adams Grove Jill ha lasciato il cuore: la nonna Pearl, che l'ha cresciuta come una figlia; e Garrett Malloy, promesso sposo e fidanzato di sempre, che l'ha tradita a un passo dal matrimonio.
Come sempre accade in storie come questa, Jill sarà costretta a tornare nella casa della nonna, da cui inizierà un lungo e tortuoso percorso di conoscenza di sé. La ragazza dovrà infatti scavare nel passato di Pearl, che ha disseminato la casa di indizi per raccontarle una storia troppo dolorosa da svelare a parole, finché la nonna era ancora in vita.
Jill si immergerà nel passato e come sempre, svelando alcuni retroscena che la riguardano più o meno direttamente, la ragazza scoprirà quali sono i suoi reali desideri e qual è la sua vera natura, decidendo con chi e dove desidera passare veramente il resto della sua vita.
Ad un certo punto alla ragazza verrà chiesto anche di svelare un mistero celato da anni, e alla vena romance della storia si aggiunge una spruzzata di mistero, che porterà il lettore a una caccia al tesoro organizzata da tempo da Pearl.
Non posso dire che il finale non sia scontato e che il lettore comprenda molto prima della protagonista alcuni retroscena, ma è davvero un romanzo carino, con cui passare un paio d'ore liete, senza pretese e senza alcuna difficoltà nella lettura, che è resa semplice dalle scelte lessicali e dall'ottima traduzione.
January 21, 2022
I feel pretty biased about this series already, having known the author when I was growing up and finding so much of her and her late husband tucked into these books. They are almost like a warm hug to me from a friend you haven’t seen in a while - just what I needed. The story has all the things that draw me in - a good man chasing the love of his soulmate and their twists and turns to come back to each other. Along with a good romance, you find yourself trying to solve a few mysteries and more than once I found myself on the edge of my seat, holding my breath.
The Virginia Tech mentions also warm my heart as my alma mater has brought so much happiness into my life over the years - I love being able to relate to a character in that way
The Virginia Tech mentions also warm my heart as my alma mater has brought so much happiness into my life over the years - I love being able to relate to a character in that way
December 30, 2017
I read the third book in this series and couldn't resist coming back to start from the beginning. Seewt Tea and Secrets doesn't disappoint. It's a mixture of finding lost love, sweet romance and a little bit of a mystery thrown in.
The descriptions are delightful, the dialogue smart and the whole tone of the story leaves you wanting more - luckily for the reader there are multiple books in this series. The danger adds to the plot and makes the Happily Ever After all the happier.
The descriptions are delightful, the dialogue smart and the whole tone of the story leaves you wanting more - luckily for the reader there are multiple books in this series. The danger adds to the plot and makes the Happily Ever After all the happier.
July 1, 2017
L'idea della storia non era male, ma la resa non è sempre stata buona: in più di un'occasione ho storto il naso e la protagonista non ha mai acceso le mie simpatie. Infine, non è che il modo di scrivere dell'autrice mi sia piaciuto molto...
January 24, 2019
I read this book via Audible. Brillance Audio was wonderful as the narrator!
I really loved this book and will certainly read the rest of the series! The little mystery wrapped in makes it a perfect balance of romance and cozy mystery.
I look forward to my next trip to Adams Grove!
I really loved this book and will certainly read the rest of the series! The little mystery wrapped in makes it a perfect balance of romance and cozy mystery.
I look forward to my next trip to Adams Grove!
September 20, 2017
The writing style was a little hard to get used too but it did keep my attention in places. I might check out more books in the series. It's a clean read.
December 23, 2017
Jill's grandmother, Pearl, died and Jill must sort through her things. But then things happen, what was Pearl's secret? Jill must also deal with Bradley (current BF) and Garrett (ex BF).
So, while I did like this and it kept my attention, I must say: JILL YOU ARE AN IDIOT! Really, how many red flags and shitty behavior must one see before they realize they're with a lying asshole?! This would have been more enjoyable for me if one of the main characters wasn't such an idiot. And why would you believe someone you recently meet, over your long term BF who YOU'VE KNOW YOUR WHOLE LIFE?! Jill does get better, but it takes some time. Garrett was a saint.
Predictable, you know who the evil one turns out to be well before the end. I thought the ending was a bit of a let down. I wanted more.
I didn't like this enough to read the rest.
I did like this quote:
"Live your life in such a way that every single morning when your feet hit the floor Satan shudders and says, "Oh shit, she's awake!" (Grandma Pearl's favorite quote).
So, while I did like this and it kept my attention, I must say: JILL YOU ARE AN IDIOT! Really, how many red flags and shitty behavior must one see before they realize they're with a lying asshole?! This would have been more enjoyable for me if one of the main characters wasn't such an idiot. And why would you believe someone you recently meet, over your long term BF who YOU'VE KNOW YOUR WHOLE LIFE?! Jill does get better, but it takes some time. Garrett was a saint.
Predictable, you know who the evil one turns out to be well before the end. I thought the ending was a bit of a let down. I wanted more.
I didn't like this enough to read the rest.
I did like this quote:
"Live your life in such a way that every single morning when your feet hit the floor Satan shudders and says, "Oh shit, she's awake!" (Grandma Pearl's favorite quote).
June 25, 2011
originally posted at http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
Grandma Pearl was a matchmaker indeed. She was also loved by the town of Adams Grove. When she passed on, she left behind a trail of secrets for her granddaughter Jill to follow. And, with her matchmaking skills in mind, before she died she set out to encourage Jill and Garrett to rekindle their relationship. It would be a win-win situation for all parties involved.
Jill left Adams Grove a year ago, to begin a new life with a great new job. She became very busy, but made it back to Adams Grove for her grandmother's surprise party, and then for her death just a while later. Pearl was the only relative Jill had left, and so her surprise passing hit her pretty hard. She stops everything she's doing to come back to Adams Grove and take care of things, and to keep a fresh mind of all the memories of Pearl that are there. And Garrett, he just doesn't give up.
Garrett loved Pearl too. Obviously, Pearl loved Garrett and wanted him to be a part of the family. She'd always felt Garrett and Jill belonged together. Even in death, Pearl is everywhere. She has a strong presence throughout the story, playing on the good and bad emotions of her family and friends that loved her.
Jill sees so many changes within Adams Grove. She's torn between her life in Savannah (though her boss and boyfriend is a rude man!), and the life she left behind. And it seems someone is intruding in Pearl's house. Weaved into the story is a mystery. Who keeps breaking into the house? What is it they are after? Then comes the secrets Pearl left behind. The mysterious letters written to Pearl from a man Jill has never heard about, and so on.
Adams Grove, Virginia is a quaint little country town filled with a variety of people. It seems that Jill is surprised at those who'd once left, but came back to this town for one reason or another. What is it about a small town that brings people back, no matter where they left to and what they went to do? The ending gives vague hints that there could be more stories set in this little town. I sure hope so, because I'd love another visit. Ms. Naigle writes characters that are engaging and fresh, a plot that is moving, romantic, mysterious, and emotional. It's perfect reading for the upcoming hot summer days, where sitting in the shade with your own glass of tea seems fitting.
Want my advice? Don't miss this charming and wonderful book. Sweet Tea and Secrets has a little bit of everything - romance, mystery, something that tugs on your heartstrings, and that wonderful happily ever-after that the romantic reader craves.
Grandma Pearl was a matchmaker indeed. She was also loved by the town of Adams Grove. When she passed on, she left behind a trail of secrets for her granddaughter Jill to follow. And, with her matchmaking skills in mind, before she died she set out to encourage Jill and Garrett to rekindle their relationship. It would be a win-win situation for all parties involved.
Jill left Adams Grove a year ago, to begin a new life with a great new job. She became very busy, but made it back to Adams Grove for her grandmother's surprise party, and then for her death just a while later. Pearl was the only relative Jill had left, and so her surprise passing hit her pretty hard. She stops everything she's doing to come back to Adams Grove and take care of things, and to keep a fresh mind of all the memories of Pearl that are there. And Garrett, he just doesn't give up.
Garrett loved Pearl too. Obviously, Pearl loved Garrett and wanted him to be a part of the family. She'd always felt Garrett and Jill belonged together. Even in death, Pearl is everywhere. She has a strong presence throughout the story, playing on the good and bad emotions of her family and friends that loved her.
Jill sees so many changes within Adams Grove. She's torn between her life in Savannah (though her boss and boyfriend is a rude man!), and the life she left behind. And it seems someone is intruding in Pearl's house. Weaved into the story is a mystery. Who keeps breaking into the house? What is it they are after? Then comes the secrets Pearl left behind. The mysterious letters written to Pearl from a man Jill has never heard about, and so on.
Adams Grove, Virginia is a quaint little country town filled with a variety of people. It seems that Jill is surprised at those who'd once left, but came back to this town for one reason or another. What is it about a small town that brings people back, no matter where they left to and what they went to do? The ending gives vague hints that there could be more stories set in this little town. I sure hope so, because I'd love another visit. Ms. Naigle writes characters that are engaging and fresh, a plot that is moving, romantic, mysterious, and emotional. It's perfect reading for the upcoming hot summer days, where sitting in the shade with your own glass of tea seems fitting.
Want my advice? Don't miss this charming and wonderful book. Sweet Tea and Secrets has a little bit of everything - romance, mystery, something that tugs on your heartstrings, and that wonderful happily ever-after that the romantic reader craves.
May 1, 2012
Adam's Grove is a charming, vivid world that came to life for me and reminded me of my own small hometown. It's an archetype for the American South that works well at carrying the story. The characters were well-rounded; you'll find yourself cheering for Jill and grieving over Pearl as if you've known them all your life - like they were just a couple gals from your own neighborhood. It was flawlessly plotted - balancing suspense and romance seamlessly. A nice touch at the end - Naigle includes a list of recipes for some of appetizing items mentioned at length in the book. There's a very visceral feeling of "coming home" that Naigle makes palpable in this novel.
My only criticism beyond the very occasional your/you're confusion was that for me, it ended a little too abruptly, and I would have loved to have seen an epilogue - Brindle estates is built and Jill and Garrett have built a family to honor Pearl's memory. I'll be checking out the other Adam's Grove novels for another welcome escape to this gem of a Southern community. My hope is that one of them will let me find out if Carolanne gave up all New York City to offer for a return to small town life after all.
As someone who's not a huge fan of either romance or suspense, the literary quality of this novel walks this fine line effortlessly and makes for a more than enjoyable read.
Kelly Hitchcock
Author of The Redheaded Stepchild
My only criticism beyond the very occasional your/you're confusion was that for me, it ended a little too abruptly, and I would have loved to have seen an epilogue - Brindle estates is built and Jill and Garrett have built a family to honor Pearl's memory. I'll be checking out the other Adam's Grove novels for another welcome escape to this gem of a Southern community. My hope is that one of them will let me find out if Carolanne gave up all New York City to offer for a return to small town life after all.
As someone who's not a huge fan of either romance or suspense, the literary quality of this novel walks this fine line effortlessly and makes for a more than enjoyable read.
Kelly Hitchcock
Author of The Redheaded Stepchild
March 25, 2012
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The book begins with Jill driving to Adams Grove to celebrate her beloved Grandmother's Birthday. At the Birthday we learn a little back story and from there the real story begins. Jill gets a call while at a Gala that she organised. Her Grandmother Pearl is dead.
It was a horrible blow to Jill. She rushes back to her home town to see her grandmother buried but ends up in a mystery. The thing is she doesn't know she is part of a grand mystery until it sneaks up on her and bites her in the....
This book had a great flow to it, it was easy to follow and easy to read. The cover however made me think twice about reading this book because I thought it would be a boring old lady story. Thank god it was so far from that. Though there is an old lady in the story she was anything but timid lol She was full of life and it was great reading about her escapades and ideals. The part of the book that truly sucked me in and got me to keep reading though was the little happenings that got me to wondering hmmm "that doesn't seem right, there's got to be more to the story" as the story unfolded it sure did have more to it and it boggled my mind.
I adored these characters, I felt their emotions, the ups and downs. I even shed a tear here and there. I also laughed out loud and get some crazy looks from family and co-workers while I was reading .
I highly recommend you give this book a read, I would have been missing out big time had I let the cover keep me away from this delectable read.
I give it 5 STARS!
It was a horrible blow to Jill. She rushes back to her home town to see her grandmother buried but ends up in a mystery. The thing is she doesn't know she is part of a grand mystery until it sneaks up on her and bites her in the....
This book had a great flow to it, it was easy to follow and easy to read. The cover however made me think twice about reading this book because I thought it would be a boring old lady story. Thank god it was so far from that. Though there is an old lady in the story she was anything but timid lol She was full of life and it was great reading about her escapades and ideals. The part of the book that truly sucked me in and got me to keep reading though was the little happenings that got me to wondering hmmm "that doesn't seem right, there's got to be more to the story" as the story unfolded it sure did have more to it and it boggled my mind.
I adored these characters, I felt their emotions, the ups and downs. I even shed a tear here and there. I also laughed out loud and get some crazy looks from family and co-workers while I was reading .
I highly recommend you give this book a read, I would have been missing out big time had I let the cover keep me away from this delectable read.
I give it 5 STARS!
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