Grits and Grievances

The Jubilee Series #5

by Rachel Hanna

In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains lies Jubilee, where Coop's Home Cookin' has been a beloved staple for decades. Walter "Coop" Cooper serves up hearty meals and a side of grumpy charm to locals and tourists alike. But Coop's world is turned upside down when Tate Morgan, a city transplant with roots in Jubilee, opens a trendy vegan restaurant across the street.

Caught in the middle is Whitney Cooper, Coop's dutiful daughter. She dreams of opening her own wellness studio but feels obligated to her father's diner. As tensions between Coop and Tate escalate, Whitney finds herself torn between loyalty to her father and her growing feelings for Tate.

When Coop enlists Whitney to sabotage the new restaurant, she must choose between her father's expectations and her own dreams. As secrets come to light and friendships blossom, Whitney navigates the challenges of family loyalty and personal aspirations.

Grits and Grievances is a heartwarming tale of family, love, and the courage to pursue one's dreams, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Will Jubilee find room for both tradition and innovation, or will old rivalries tear them apart?

Genres: Audiobook, Fiction, Romance

232 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2025

About the author

Hey there! Before I tell you all about myself, can I invite you to join my private Rachel's Readers Facebook group? That's where my readers hang out, discuss my books, participate in giveaways and learn about new releases.

You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...

So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.

I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!

I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Women's Fiction with a very slow moving Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Jubilee Series. I have not read the other books in this series. I read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I enjoyed the audiobook. This book was filled with some really good messages. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this book. I loved seeing the main female character going after what she wants. I wish the romance in this book was better. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Terri Whatley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the jubilee series. I love following the story of Madeline and Brady and love how each book adds in a new story of another family/couple in Jubilee. Loved the story of Whitney, her dad and Tate. I love how it showed Whitney being strong aand standing up for herself and in what she believes.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just goes to prove that an old dog CAN learn new tricks!

Coop has been running the small town’s diner/restaurant/fixture/hangout for many years. He serves old fashioned comfort food that the neighborhood seems to love!
So, when he sees that a new VEGAN restaurant is opening up in town, right near him, he is NOT happy. And to add fuel to the fire, the new owner, Tate, comes in to meet him! 😮 How dare he?!?! He won’t even give him the time of day…

But, Whitney, Coop’s daughter, does not feel the same way…. Being in the medical field, she thinks this is a great idea for their small town, and is happy that HEALTHY OPTIONS are being offered…

And once she actually MEETS Tate, well, she realizes that he’s just a nice guy. All-around! And she actually feels bad for him…

And so, Rachel Hanna spins a tale, as she does, involving the whole town…family, friends, acquaintances and adversaries… revolving around the dilemma of a new (God help us…) HEALTHY option coming to town vs. our old friend Coop’s place…
BUT, should we at least give it a try and go taste the rabbit food??

And so, there’s a whole debacle…and Whitney gets right in the middle of it!

Sweet, sad, funny and disheartening too! But in the end, all is well in their little town of Jubilee, in the Blue Ridge Mountains!

3 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me! Happily rounded up to 4!

#GritsandGrievances (The Jubilee Series, # 5) by #RachelHanna and narrated by #AnneMichaelSmith.

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeSelect for an ARC of the audiobook. The RELEASE DATE is less than a week away!!
**** Look 👀 for it on 2/25/25!! ****

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Tricia Toney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Walter "Coop" Cooper has run his diner Coop's Home Cookin' for forty years. His world is rocked when a new restaurant opens up across from his diner. This new vegan restaurant, run by Tate Morgan, is seen as direct competition. The growing friendship between Tate and Coop's daughter Whitney only serves to make him more nervous. When dreams meet expectations, can everyone adapt and change?

[Reeca Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Y’all know I love my southern reads. This book is cute and hit me at just the right time. I needed a quick, easy read and this one fit the bill!
This story is full of romance, family drama, and life changing decisions. I loved the characters and the setting. Now, it is a bit predictable but isn’t that why you read a palate cleanser.
Y’all need a good one for a road trip…THIS IS IT!

[Susan]

Perfect as always!💜

Review to follow!

[Sami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, I think this was my favorite in the series.

[Reina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by the wonderful Rachel Hanna!!!

I love her writing style! While I’m reading, it feels like I’m in the book, connecting with the characters is effortless, and each book is so heartwarming. I can’t wait to see what happens next with Madeline and Brady, & Whitney and Tate!

[Ann-Maree · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grits & Grievances
by Rachel Hanna
Narrated by Anne-Michael Smith

Set against the enchanting backdrop of Jubilee, a charming town nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, this heartwarming Southern tale weaves a rich story of family, love, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams.

At the heart of the book is Walter "Coop" Cooper and his beloved diner, "Coop's Home Cookin’." A cherished institution for forty years, the diner is more than just a place to enjoy hearty meals; it’s a gathering spot where locals and tourists alike come to bask in the warmth of Coop’s hospitality and the smell of his mouthwatering dishes.

As the story unfolds, we find Coop grappling with a sense of unease, feeling grumpier than usual. His familiar world is shaken by the arrival of Tate Morgan, a newcomer from the city who is about to open a trendy vegan restaurant across the street, threatening the comfort of Coop’s traditional culinary haven.

Whitney, Coop's daughter, is a nurse at the local clinic but dreams of establishing a wellness centre, a far cry from her father’s diner. While Coop is hesitant and resistant to her aspirations, Tate becomes an unexpected ally, offering Whitney invaluable support and encouragement as she strives to carve out her own path in the world of small business. Caught between her father’s expectations and the new possibilities that Tate presents, Whitney embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

The narrator delivered in a calming and melodic voice, perfectly captures the essence of the characters and the heartfelt themes woven throughout the story, enhancing the overall experience of this tender tale. This is the fifth book in the series by Rachel Hanna, but it was my first time listening to/reading any of them. I appreciated the story's stand-alone quality, although there are characters that appear more prominently in this book that also have a backstory in previous books. Nonetheless, this did not affect my enjoyment, as I found the audiobook to be to my liking.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grits & Grievances is a wonderful addition to the Jubilee series. From the very first page, I was captivated by the lively characters, vivid descriptions, and engaging storyline that transported me to the small Southern town of Jubilee. Rachel is a remarkable storyteller, skillfully weaving together themes of friendship, love, and resilience to create a heartwarming tale of new opportunities, forgiveness, and understanding.

When a new restaurant opens in Julblee, Coop, the owner of the local diner, worries that it will negatively impact his business. Imagine Coop's dismay upon discovering that his daughter, Whitney, has befriended the owner of the new restaurant. This leads him to believe she has turned to the "dark side," creating a significant rift between them. Whitney also has her own dreams of starting a business, which her dad does not support. She must decide between her father, her aspirations, and her growing feelings for the new restaurant owner, whom her dad views as the enemy.

We also have the opportunity to catch up with other residents of Jubilee, such as Madelaine and Brady, which is always enjoyable.

Grits & Grievances is more than just a story; it’s an experience that keeps you feeling uplifted and connected to the characters long after you’ve turned the last page. If you enjoy stories centered on family, friendship, love, dreams, and commitment, all set in a charming small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you will love this new installment in the Jubilee series. Having read all of Rachel Hanna's books, I can confidently say she consistently delivers. She has crafted another wonderful story, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: Grits & Grievance
Series: The Jubilee Series #5
Format: 🎧
Author: Rachel Hanna
Narrator: Anne-Michael Smith
Publisher: Dreamscape Select /Rachel Hanna
Genre: Women’s Fiction/ Romance
Audiobook Pub Date: February 25, 2025
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 230

Awww once again we are taken to Jubilee in Blue Ridge Mountains where we find Walter ‘Coop” Cooper and his diner ‘Coop's Home Cookin'. He and his diner have been in the same spot for forty years and is a favorite for locals as well as tourists. It is a favorite not just because there is plenty of good food but everyone knows and loves ‘Coop’.
However, this story start with Coop a bit grumpier than usual as Tate Morgan, a city transplant is opening a trendy vegan restaurant across the street.

Whitney Cooper is nurse and is Coop's daughter and helps her dad at the diner whenever she can. However she has always wanted to manage wellness studio offering yoga as well as assistance with health related issues. She feels obligated to help her dad and he is NOT supportive of her dream. Whitney knows if her mother were still alive things would be different.

This is Book #5 in this series and the characters are recurring from previous stories. Although I have read other Rachael Hanna stories this is my first in this series; which was not a problem. This is a story of the beauty of sweet romance and that .it is possible to resolve to family issues.
It was a quick as well as an enjoyable read.

I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Select/Rachel Hanna and for this enjoyable audiobook.
Audiobook Publishing Release Date scheduled for February 25, 2024.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jubilee!!!!

Grits and Grievances by Rachel Hanna is a delightful, heartwarming novel set in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, where family, loyalty, and personal dreams collide. The story revolves around Coop's Home Cookin', a beloved diner owned by the gruff but lovable Walter "Coop" Cooper. Coop's world is shaken when Tate Morgan, a city transplant with deep roots in Jubilee, opens a trendy vegan restaurant right across the street, creating a fierce rivalry that divides the town.

At the heart of the conflict is Whitney Cooper, Coop’s daughter, who dreams of opening her own wellness studio but feels torn between supporting her father and her growing connection with Tate. As tensions rise between Coop and Tate, Whitney is thrust into a difficult position, forced to choose between family loyalty and her own aspirations. The novel beautifully explores the themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and the courage it takes to chase one’s dreams.

Hanna’s writing is filled with warmth, humor, and relatable characters, making this a perfect read for anyone who enjoys stories about second chances, small-town charm, and the power of following your heart. Grits and Grievances is a touching, feel-good story that will leave readers rooting for Whitney as she navigates the complexities of love, family, and self-discovery.

[Susan Hamann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book features Coop, the owner of Coop's Home Cookin', his daughter, Whitney, and the upstart Tate, owner of the vegan restaurant, across the street. Coop is beside himself because he's sure Tate is there to steal business away. Whitney works full time-plus, as a nurse at the local clinic. And then she fills in at Coops. But her dream is to have a wellness center.

Coop dismisses Whitney's dream and he is furious because she becomes friendly with Tate, who is helping her with a business plan and then a kickoff to demonstrate interest in her idea. There is a lot of tension between Coop and Whitney.

This is a clean romance, and it builds on the previous storylines in the series. But it's not a problem for the reader to start with this book. Sweet and interesting.

I listened to the audio version of this book. I thought the narrator did a great job.

[Kerrin Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Hanna never disappoints. I love the descriptive imagery she creates of her book settings- you feel like you are actually there in the story! Coop’s Diner and the Jubilee Vegan Cafe seem like places you’d actually come across in a small southern town. Her characters are so well developed that you actually feel like you know them- Tate and Whitney, Madeline and Brady, Coop, Wanda, and Clemmy…Her storylines embody true southern culture right down to the rich southern drawl of her characters. You experienced fear, pain, and hope right along with them! They are always connected in some way, but you don’t have to read all her books in order to follow the stories. They are just as readable and enjoyable as stand alone fiction. Way to go Rachel- another wonderful story! Can’t wait to read the next one!

[Dana Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wholesome, small town romance.

Whitney is a nurse and devoted daughter to her father Coop, who is feeling the pressure from the opening of a Vegan restaurant across the street from his diner. Tate, the new establishment's owner, wants to show Coop that there is room in town for the both of them.

I enjoyed getting to know Whitney and Tate and of course I loved the updates on Maddie's story.

Sometimes I felt like there was a little more room for chemistry between the MMC and FMC - even with it being a closed door romance, but it was a pretty quick read/listen and still a nice story.

My biggest thanks to NetGalley, Rachel Hanna, and Dreamscape Select for letting me listen to this book in exchange for only my honest opinion.

[Macy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another visit to Jubilee. This is about Coop and Whitney who are more alike than either of them are willing to acknowledge. Coop is very set in his ways and feeling threatened by some changes in town. Whitney, his daughter, wants to carve her own path, thus they are at an impasse. Fathers and their daughters who love each other very much, but have very different ideas of their respective futures. Then there is some new guy in the small town insta-love. Trite, obvious and I am not a big fan of simpering female characters. Sweet and of course everything works out in the end, but for me it is not my favorite in the series.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Kate Sharrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

The start of this book drew me in. I very much enjoyed the plot and characters. I listened to the audio version and did find as the book progressed, there were a lot of repetitive themes. Two sets of characters had love interests and I think those stories could have developed a bit sooner. Same goes for the father/daughter conflict. It was well established and I would have liked to see their relationship grow or change sooner than the last chapter. The ending was a bit abrupt and I wished there were a few more chapters that brought everything together at the end. I did love the small town setting and how much everyone looked after each other. It was a sweet read, but something I would only read/listen to once.

[Tracie Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a heartwarming story!
Jubilee, a small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is home to Coop’s Home Cookin’. Walter Cooper serves up the staples of true Southern comfort food. Coop’s world is challenged when Tate arrives from the city and opens a Vegan restaurant across the street.
Whitney Cooper only wants to chase her dreams with her father’s support. The problem is that her father thinks her only dream should be with him at the diner. Coop becomes obsessed with his competition, Whitney develops feeling for Tate as she considers her future.
This is a heartwarming story of family and friends set in one of my favorite places – the Blue Ridge Mountains!
I really enjoyed the audiobook, it has great narration and gives life to the characters of Jubilee. 4/5⭐
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of the audiobook of this novel.

[Roxanne Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of all the author’s I read, Rachel Hanna’’s books always make me feel like I am coming home. This one is just as special. Whitney works a great deal at a medical clinic and with her father. However she feels the pull to do something for herself. With a great deal of chaos from her father she goes for her dreams anyway with some help from Tate. The problems peak between she and her father and you can really feel the pain coming from both sides as they seem to lose their connection. The author tells the story as of you are eves-dropping on their conversations. I loved the conflict between the father and the daughter as romance bloomed anyways. Wonderful book.

[Mamawattto4 Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧

Thank you NetGalley and Rachel Hanna for this audio ARC!

5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First of all. Ugh. Everything Rachel writes is gold with this ARC I have officially again read every book by her. It’s all gold!!!

I loved the audio the narrator embodied the characters will. It was smooth and effortless.

The book ugh book 5 in The Jubilee Series and it of course did not disappoint. I loved Tate and Whitneys relationship. I love the support. But I also love how Rachel brings in all the characters in this little town into every book. Love this small town series. Rachel will always be an auto read for me!

[Cynthia Bookish_onthecape · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grits and Grievances Honest ARC Audiobook Review:

Rachel Hanna writes descriptively and beautifully to describe elements of the small town and its Southern culture. Seeing each of the characters come to life is interesting and enjoyable. Tate and Whitney are adorable! Madeline and Brady have a beautiful relationship that is inspiring.

The way that Hanna blends the characters and their support and care for one another in this audiobook and series is fantastic! The Audiobook and its narration does not disappoint!!

⭐️small town romance
⭐️contemporary romance
⭐️forbidden romance
⭐️Hopeful
⭐️Reflective

Thank you for sharing this ARC with me.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grits and Grievances by Rachel Hanna is the 5th book in The Jubilee series. I read this book as a stand alone but I definitely want to go back and read the first 4! Narration was by Anne-Michael Smith. Walter Coop owns Coop’s Home Cooking where he has been serving the town for years. Tate Morgan opens a vegan restaurant across the street from him and tensions start to flare. Whitney is Coop’s daughter who wants to open a wellness studio. Coop doesn’t want her too but Tate is supportive. Whitney finds herself caught between her dad and Tate. Great read. Enjoy! Thank you to #NetGalley, #Dreamscape select, and the author for this arc read. This is my honest review.

[Samantha Sargent · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔉AUDIO BOOK🔉
So excited #NetGalley chose me for this ARC!!

Rachel Hanna has done it again, like she always does! She creates a strong, yet soft main character who takes you on a journey of what its like to not only accomplish your dreams but to fall in love along the way. The support of a small town in this Jubilee series is so heartfelt. Listening to the audios, it almost puts you right there in the center of the small town!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ WITHOUT a doubt!

The narrator was fantastic, kept me tuned in and intrigued.

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝘎𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘎𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 by Rachel Hanna
(The Jubilee Series book 5)

Narrated by:
🎤 Anne-Michael Smith

Thank you, Dreamscape Select, Rachel Hanna, and NetGalley, for this ALC audiobook!

𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬:

Sometimes, it's nice to just slow down and listen to a cozy southern book. I loved the small town mountain setting and the family drama.

Whitney (FMC) was a great character, and I love that she followed her dreams despite her father's resistance.

The narrator had a very calming voice. I would definitely listen again and I'll read more of Rachel Hanna's books in the future.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Hanna has given readers or listeners another great book. This one has the focus on Tate and Whitney. Tate has opened a vegan restaurant across the street from Coops restaurant. Coop is Whitney’s father. Tensions are high when Coop is certain Tate is stealing his longtime customers. To make things even more complicated for Tate and Whitney there is a definite strong chemistry between them.
I listened to the audio book and the narration by Anne-Michael Smith was excellent.
Thank you NetGalley, Rachel Hanna, and Dreamscape Select for the audiobook of Grits and Grievances.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grits and Grievances by Rachel Hanna is an enjoyable read that perfectly captures the charm of small-town life. The characters are easy to connect with, and the mix of family drama, self-discovery, and Southern charm made for an engaging story. I especially liked how the protagonist navigated unexpected changes and personal growth.

While the book kept my interest, parts of the plot felt a little predictable, and I wished for more depth in some of the emotional moments. Even so, it was a cozy, uplifting read that left me satisfied. A solid 4 stars!

[Beth Bowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The finale of the Jubilee series. I loved all five of these books. They are simple, short and sweet.

The main characters bleed over from one book to another Which is great.

The story takess place in the Blue Ridge mountains. Feels like a quaint small town where everyone knows most people. These books stories are filled with love and charm.

I enjoyed the easiness of the reading and the size of each book was perfect to allow me to keep reading without taking a lot of time to complete the books. Nice job to the author!

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Net Galley and Dreamscape Media for the advanced copy of this 5 th book in the Jubilee series. Small town story of a woman wanting to live her dream and not upset her father’s dream. Good read with good narration but I felt the last two chapters were rushed. I really wanted more development of her actually fulfilling her dream. Despite that detail this would make a great Hallmark movie❤️

[Corey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest book in the Jubilee series was adorable! When a new vegan cafe moves into Jubilee, rivals are created. But not to worry, that doesn't stop new relationships from growing and old relationships from transforming. We also catch up with Madeline and Brady. This book about family, friends, and believing in yourself is not to be missed. Treat yourself to the latest Jubliee book - you'll love it!

[Denise Schenk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whitney works as a nurse and would like to open a wellness center in her small town. Her father Walter Coop Cooper runs the local diner. He is a stubborn man and would like to have run the diner. Tate Morgan comes to town and opens a veggie restaurant across from the diner.
Coop is extremely upset with the new place opening and taking his customers. Whitney meets Tate and they seem to have a lot in common, but her dad is not having it.

The narrator was really good.