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Harmony #8
One True Heart
New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas takes us back to Harmony, Texas—a small town where love blooms and secrets of the past threaten to alter the future…
Millanie McAllen is always logical. But after returning to her childhood home, she learns that some things are beyond explanation—like her undeniable passion for Drew Cunningham…
After finding success as a singer on the road, Beau Yates returns to Harmony to make peace with his dying father—only to find the woman he’s been dreaming of for years. But the secrets they discover might be too much for him to bear…
When Johnny Wheeler is charged with his wife’s murder, he turns to the only person who believes he’s innocent. Fortune teller Kare Cunningham’s life has always danced around reality—but Johnny is able to ground her like no other…
As their paths cross in new, captivating directions, the townspeople of Harmony need to learn to love and let go in order to live together in their little slice of heaven.
Millanie McAllen is always logical. But after returning to her childhood home, she learns that some things are beyond explanation—like her undeniable passion for Drew Cunningham…
After finding success as a singer on the road, Beau Yates returns to Harmony to make peace with his dying father—only to find the woman he’s been dreaming of for years. But the secrets they discover might be too much for him to bear…
When Johnny Wheeler is charged with his wife’s murder, he turns to the only person who believes he’s innocent. Fortune teller Kare Cunningham’s life has always danced around reality—but Johnny is able to ground her like no other…
As their paths cross in new, captivating directions, the townspeople of Harmony need to learn to love and let go in order to live together in their little slice of heaven.
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
237 people are currently reading
628 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Thomas
118 books2,530 followersI'm a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author, wife, mother, in-law, grandmother, sister, friend, and owner of one fat cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
April 10, 2015
Originally posted at Smexybooks
http://smexybooks.com/2015/04/review-...
One True Heart is about trust, forgiveness, and working through the past in order to have a future. Six lives are intertwined through chance when four people are lured to Harmony and find themselves embroiled in a mystery. The story starts out strong as we meet each character and learn their backstory.
Captain Millanie McAllen and Drew Cunningham have both experienced and survived life altering tragedies. Harmony offers them a chance to hide and heal without anyone divulging too deeply into their pasts. A chance meeting between them leads to a possible future if they can learn to trust each other.
Johnny Wheeler and Kare Cunningham have both been disappointed by those who should have loved them unconditionally. Left alone in the world, neither of them were looking for love but are pleasantly surprised when a dreamer and the realist form a connection.
Beau Yates left Harmony years ago and has now returned a famous musician. He and Lark used each other as teenagers to escape their problems but when he discovers she’s the local bank’s VP, he wonders if the girl he knew is still worth the trouble he always wanted.
I’ve been a fan of Thomas’s Harmony series from the first book, Welcome to Harmony. A small town contemporary series that follows the descendants of the town’s three founding families. Romance, suspense, intrigue, heartbreak, and laughter all blend together to offer readers a window into the lives and loves of this town. In the beginning, the series focused on Reagan Truman and her life. Since then, Thomas has expanded her world and intertwined other character’s storylines, giving readers a never ending story in which to lose themselves. Because of the soap opera style set up, I don’t recommend you start the series here. Though each book introduces new couple(s), it also proceeds to advance the lives of various other couples from other books with the assumption you are intimately familiar with their lives.
I will admit this particular installment was a miss for me. I mourned the sense of comradery, gossip-y nature, and humor that has been a strong selling point of the series for me. Some previous characters make cameo appearances, letting us know what’s been going on, but their interactions felt forced. I felt a sense of rush in the weak conflict development, random plot lines, unusual character development, and an incomplete ending. Each “romance” seems to only touch upon the concept without really divulging too deep into it. It’s all very linear. There was no anticipation. Thomas never promises an HEA in every book. Some stories require multiple books to work out all the issues but if I hadn’t read the other seven books, I would have thought each of these couples (with the except of Beau and Lark) had some history together. So much seems skimmed over in the rush to get to the end.
Millanie and Drew have an instant connection from moment they meet but I never bought the attraction. Their chemistry and communication skills were severely lacking, dragging out the conflict. Millanie gets upset because Drew avoids her questions about his past but she herself isn’t truthful with him. Also, Millanie is very judgemental of Drew-thinking of him as boring, unattractive, and most likely to never be noticed. For someone whose entire career was based on her ability to notice things I was constantly amazed by her inability to see him.
Beau and Lark had to be the strangest couple in the book. Having met as teenagers, Lark (Trouble) used to come find Beau and they would lose themselves as they raced the back roads in her little red convertible. Having been always attracted to her, Beau knew he had to find his own way before he could be a “couple” with anyone. Years pass and he is pleased to see her again but dismayed by her obvious lack of interest. I was intrigued by the blurb that hinted at a dark secret that might keep them apart but we never learned what the secret was. Or maybe I’m obtuse and missed it. Not having Lark’s POV hurts because we never really learn what exactly her issues were in the past or now when it comes to a relationship with Beau.
Johnny and Kare were the life of the book. Cute and funny, their scenes together come off like a vaudeville act. At times Kare’s naivete tried my nerves and I really wished she didn’t feel the need to hide her intelligence. Of all the romances, this one had th most potential. We see the progression from friendship to more as Kare helps Johnny while he’s in jail. Of course, when Johnny makes his feelings known, Kare is uninterested. Then a few chapters later they are a couple. I think. I’m not sure because we never see what makes Kare change her mind about Johnny. And that was the cusp of the whole book. So much is told and not much is seen. Things have a way of working themselves out right after we are told they have no chance of working out.
An interesting mystery touches all three couples as Millanie works to discover a terrorist supposedly hiding in Harmony. Random acts of violence proves they are close and it’s only when they all work together are they able to bring them to justice. The ending is abrupt and leaves us hanging there, wondering what just happened. Nothing is really resolved in any of the storylines-the book just ends with a feeling of “we’ll see.” I felt as thought this was an introduction book to a new major storyline as the previous long running arc was resolved in the last book. I’m hoping this is just an anomaly and the next book will revert back to the greatness I am used to from Ms. Thomas. A brief look into the new story which is scheduled to appear later this year in an anthology looks promising.
RATING: D
http://smexybooks.com/2015/04/review-...
One True Heart is about trust, forgiveness, and working through the past in order to have a future. Six lives are intertwined through chance when four people are lured to Harmony and find themselves embroiled in a mystery. The story starts out strong as we meet each character and learn their backstory.
Captain Millanie McAllen and Drew Cunningham have both experienced and survived life altering tragedies. Harmony offers them a chance to hide and heal without anyone divulging too deeply into their pasts. A chance meeting between them leads to a possible future if they can learn to trust each other.
Johnny Wheeler and Kare Cunningham have both been disappointed by those who should have loved them unconditionally. Left alone in the world, neither of them were looking for love but are pleasantly surprised when a dreamer and the realist form a connection.
Beau Yates left Harmony years ago and has now returned a famous musician. He and Lark used each other as teenagers to escape their problems but when he discovers she’s the local bank’s VP, he wonders if the girl he knew is still worth the trouble he always wanted.
I’ve been a fan of Thomas’s Harmony series from the first book, Welcome to Harmony. A small town contemporary series that follows the descendants of the town’s three founding families. Romance, suspense, intrigue, heartbreak, and laughter all blend together to offer readers a window into the lives and loves of this town. In the beginning, the series focused on Reagan Truman and her life. Since then, Thomas has expanded her world and intertwined other character’s storylines, giving readers a never ending story in which to lose themselves. Because of the soap opera style set up, I don’t recommend you start the series here. Though each book introduces new couple(s), it also proceeds to advance the lives of various other couples from other books with the assumption you are intimately familiar with their lives.
I will admit this particular installment was a miss for me. I mourned the sense of comradery, gossip-y nature, and humor that has been a strong selling point of the series for me. Some previous characters make cameo appearances, letting us know what’s been going on, but their interactions felt forced. I felt a sense of rush in the weak conflict development, random plot lines, unusual character development, and an incomplete ending. Each “romance” seems to only touch upon the concept without really divulging too deep into it. It’s all very linear. There was no anticipation. Thomas never promises an HEA in every book. Some stories require multiple books to work out all the issues but if I hadn’t read the other seven books, I would have thought each of these couples (with the except of Beau and Lark) had some history together. So much seems skimmed over in the rush to get to the end.
Millanie and Drew have an instant connection from moment they meet but I never bought the attraction. Their chemistry and communication skills were severely lacking, dragging out the conflict. Millanie gets upset because Drew avoids her questions about his past but she herself isn’t truthful with him. Also, Millanie is very judgemental of Drew-thinking of him as boring, unattractive, and most likely to never be noticed. For someone whose entire career was based on her ability to notice things I was constantly amazed by her inability to see him.
Beau and Lark had to be the strangest couple in the book. Having met as teenagers, Lark (Trouble) used to come find Beau and they would lose themselves as they raced the back roads in her little red convertible. Having been always attracted to her, Beau knew he had to find his own way before he could be a “couple” with anyone. Years pass and he is pleased to see her again but dismayed by her obvious lack of interest. I was intrigued by the blurb that hinted at a dark secret that might keep them apart but we never learned what the secret was. Or maybe I’m obtuse and missed it. Not having Lark’s POV hurts because we never really learn what exactly her issues were in the past or now when it comes to a relationship with Beau.
Johnny and Kare were the life of the book. Cute and funny, their scenes together come off like a vaudeville act. At times Kare’s naivete tried my nerves and I really wished she didn’t feel the need to hide her intelligence. Of all the romances, this one had th most potential. We see the progression from friendship to more as Kare helps Johnny while he’s in jail. Of course, when Johnny makes his feelings known, Kare is uninterested. Then a few chapters later they are a couple. I think. I’m not sure because we never see what makes Kare change her mind about Johnny. And that was the cusp of the whole book. So much is told and not much is seen. Things have a way of working themselves out right after we are told they have no chance of working out.
An interesting mystery touches all three couples as Millanie works to discover a terrorist supposedly hiding in Harmony. Random acts of violence proves they are close and it’s only when they all work together are they able to bring them to justice. The ending is abrupt and leaves us hanging there, wondering what just happened. Nothing is really resolved in any of the storylines-the book just ends with a feeling of “we’ll see.” I felt as thought this was an introduction book to a new major storyline as the previous long running arc was resolved in the last book. I’m hoping this is just an anomaly and the next book will revert back to the greatness I am used to from Ms. Thomas. A brief look into the new story which is scheduled to appear later this year in an anthology looks promising.
RATING: D
June 26, 2024
I loved the characters and their progression together.
March 20, 2015
ONE TRUE HEART
Jodi Thomas
Berkley
April 2015
After twelve years in the army Captain Millanie McAllen is now a civilian and returning to her hometown of Harmony, Texas for some rest and rehabilitation. Millanie suffered a career ending leg wound, and at the present she has no immediate plans for the rest of her life. Arriving late at night in Amarillo, the car rental agency at the airport has already closed and Millanie accepts a ride to Harmony with a man also waiting on his bags at the luggage carousel. Being a prudent woman, Mellanie sizes him up before accepting a ride. Andrew “Drew” Cunningham lives in Twisted Creek where he has been hiding from the public for five years. He tells Millanie that he is returning from Chicago where he was visiting his mother; he also tells her his younger sister, Kare Cunningham, is twenty-four, lives in Harmony, and is a fortune teller. When Drew reaches Harmony he assumes that the woman he has been thinking of as Sleeping Beauty for the past couple of hours will be staying at Martha Q. Patterson’s Winter’s Inn, and that is where he takes her.
Mellanie isn’t in Harmony on a whim, but an assignment. Someone in her hometown is smuggling drugs and laundering money, and she will be contacted by another agent that has been in town a while longer. Lo and behold if that doesn’t turn out to be Kare, Drew’s fortune telling younger sister.
Johnny Wheeler has been arrested for burying his soon to be ex-wife. While he is in jail, Kare visits him and tells him he has no need to worry. The ex-wife isn’t even dead; she just ran off with another man.
Beau Yates is now one of Nashville’s best, and is in town because his father is dying. Beau really has no love for the man that abused him physically and threw him out, but he would like to come home for a few days. While he is in town he gets reacquainted with his teen-age fantasy girl whom he calls Trouble. He stays in Harmony longer that he planned on.
Jodi Thomas is an amazing talent with a flair for creating fully realized characters, which are fluent in humorous and believable dialogue; and Ms. Thomas’s storylines are well-paced and fascinating. ONE TRUE HEART balances well established characters to this series and newcomers to Harmony, and comes up with a picture perfect ensemble that shares love, merriment, passion and compassion. ONE TRUE HEART is sure to be another best-seller for Ms. Thomas
Betty Cox for Reader To Reader
Jodi Thomas
Berkley
April 2015
After twelve years in the army Captain Millanie McAllen is now a civilian and returning to her hometown of Harmony, Texas for some rest and rehabilitation. Millanie suffered a career ending leg wound, and at the present she has no immediate plans for the rest of her life. Arriving late at night in Amarillo, the car rental agency at the airport has already closed and Millanie accepts a ride to Harmony with a man also waiting on his bags at the luggage carousel. Being a prudent woman, Mellanie sizes him up before accepting a ride. Andrew “Drew” Cunningham lives in Twisted Creek where he has been hiding from the public for five years. He tells Millanie that he is returning from Chicago where he was visiting his mother; he also tells her his younger sister, Kare Cunningham, is twenty-four, lives in Harmony, and is a fortune teller. When Drew reaches Harmony he assumes that the woman he has been thinking of as Sleeping Beauty for the past couple of hours will be staying at Martha Q. Patterson’s Winter’s Inn, and that is where he takes her.
Mellanie isn’t in Harmony on a whim, but an assignment. Someone in her hometown is smuggling drugs and laundering money, and she will be contacted by another agent that has been in town a while longer. Lo and behold if that doesn’t turn out to be Kare, Drew’s fortune telling younger sister.
Johnny Wheeler has been arrested for burying his soon to be ex-wife. While he is in jail, Kare visits him and tells him he has no need to worry. The ex-wife isn’t even dead; she just ran off with another man.
Beau Yates is now one of Nashville’s best, and is in town because his father is dying. Beau really has no love for the man that abused him physically and threw him out, but he would like to come home for a few days. While he is in town he gets reacquainted with his teen-age fantasy girl whom he calls Trouble. He stays in Harmony longer that he planned on.
Jodi Thomas is an amazing talent with a flair for creating fully realized characters, which are fluent in humorous and believable dialogue; and Ms. Thomas’s storylines are well-paced and fascinating. ONE TRUE HEART balances well established characters to this series and newcomers to Harmony, and comes up with a picture perfect ensemble that shares love, merriment, passion and compassion. ONE TRUE HEART is sure to be another best-seller for Ms. Thomas
Betty Cox for Reader To Reader
April 9, 2015
Autry's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
I loved Jodi Thomas’s latest installment in her Harmony, Texas series. This book lived up to everything I had hoped for, and it will for many more readers. I was so excited for all of the characters in this novel, they were all there….Preacher, Rea, The McAllens, the Mathesons, Martha Q, Beau along with a host of new characters to love. It amazes me how Jodi Thomas can add more depth and more characters yet maintain the small town atmosphere.
One True Heart is a heart-warming, touching novel that focuses on Beau and his life after making it big; along with an injured solider returning to her hometown to heal and develop a plan for life after the military. Beau’s story had me in tears, it was so heart breaking to see into his past and watch his life unfold without any real resolve. Parts of Beau’s past could be building up to become his future, however, Ms. Thomas has left his story for another time. Millanie is returning home to nurse her wounds and plan her life; she has never known anything other than military. Professor Cunningham’s world was turned upside down by acts of violence that strike fear in peoples heart, he thought retreating to Harmony would be a good way to drop of the radar. Fortunately for the Professor, Millanie McAllens specialty is digging around and finding out who people really are. What she finds is a quirky, fortune telling sister who pushes her to look past Drew’s history and focus on what they could be together.
I cannot find word to express how much I loved One True Heart…I could literally go on for hours. About a fourth of the way into the book, I jumped up from my chair yelling, smiling, laughing and thinking they finally did it, finally!
Preacher and Rea fans, yes they make an appearance and I do not think you will be disappointed. Our favorite characters make an appearance although it may be brief it lets us catch up on old friends. A little violence shakes up the emotions and keeps you guessing, at times my heart was racing thinking Thomas did the unimaginable and things in Harmony would never be the same. But true to her writing style, Jodi Thomas pulled through and left me feeling so incredibly happy to have read this novel and I cannot wait for her to return to Harmony.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
I loved Jodi Thomas’s latest installment in her Harmony, Texas series. This book lived up to everything I had hoped for, and it will for many more readers. I was so excited for all of the characters in this novel, they were all there….Preacher, Rea, The McAllens, the Mathesons, Martha Q, Beau along with a host of new characters to love. It amazes me how Jodi Thomas can add more depth and more characters yet maintain the small town atmosphere.
One True Heart is a heart-warming, touching novel that focuses on Beau and his life after making it big; along with an injured solider returning to her hometown to heal and develop a plan for life after the military. Beau’s story had me in tears, it was so heart breaking to see into his past and watch his life unfold without any real resolve. Parts of Beau’s past could be building up to become his future, however, Ms. Thomas has left his story for another time. Millanie is returning home to nurse her wounds and plan her life; she has never known anything other than military. Professor Cunningham’s world was turned upside down by acts of violence that strike fear in peoples heart, he thought retreating to Harmony would be a good way to drop of the radar. Fortunately for the Professor, Millanie McAllens specialty is digging around and finding out who people really are. What she finds is a quirky, fortune telling sister who pushes her to look past Drew’s history and focus on what they could be together.
I cannot find word to express how much I loved One True Heart…I could literally go on for hours. About a fourth of the way into the book, I jumped up from my chair yelling, smiling, laughing and thinking they finally did it, finally!
Preacher and Rea fans, yes they make an appearance and I do not think you will be disappointed. Our favorite characters make an appearance although it may be brief it lets us catch up on old friends. A little violence shakes up the emotions and keeps you guessing, at times my heart was racing thinking Thomas did the unimaginable and things in Harmony would never be the same. But true to her writing style, Jodi Thomas pulled through and left me feeling so incredibly happy to have read this novel and I cannot wait for her to return to Harmony.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
March 18, 2015
My review for One True Heart by Jodi Thomas will be featured on Romancing the Book Blog in the very near future. Look for it at http://www.romancingthebook.com
March 1, 2018
Reviewed by Julie
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I don’t know what it is about small town secrets and romance, but I never get tired of reading them. The town of Harmony may be tiny but a lot more happens here than people realize.
In this eighth installment of the series we have three couples to get to know. First up is Millanie, a captain in the army who is badly injured and must return to civilian life. As she enters the closest airport she is nearly spent with exhaustion when a kindly stranger offers her a ride to the bed and breakfast in Harmony. This chance meeting with Andrew “Drew” an unassuming professor, will lead Millie to passionate heights she never thought possible.
Then there is Beau, a successful musician who returns to his hometown when his estranged father’s health is in jeopardy. When he meets his old friend Lark – aka- Trouble, the two renew their friendship.
The third story is about Kare, Drew’s sister, and Johnny. a farmer accused of his wife’s murder. Kare knows he is innocent and is determined to prove it.
There is so much going on that keeping tabs on these three scenarios became a little disjointed at times. There were a few issues I had trouble with, such as Beau’s story feeling completely out of touch with the other two couples and then a last ditch effort to tie him into their threads, which felt forced and sort of fell flat. His story was my favorite although Millie and Drew had the meatier story line and were the main focus of the novel. Beau and Lark have the most memorable scene in the book which was laugh out loud funny and very sensual.
The crime angle of the story was a bit murky and while Millie was supposed to be in charge of catching the criminals, it was Kare who did most of the work. Millie spent most of her time trying to convince herself of Drew’s possible involvement in the crime or convince herself of his innocence, and likewise she worried about their ‘friends with benefits’ arrangement.
I liked Kare and her offbeat personality and without her the story might have gotten a little dull. She is actually pretty smart and brave and I admired her loyalty to Drew and Johnny.
For some reason the chemistry between Millie and Drew didn’t work for me. Drew was a really nice man, albeit a little dull, who went through a terrible event in his life, but it’s not like it was something Millie would think less of him for. He’s too secretive and that leads Millie to suspect him of being involved in her case. I also wanted more details about what had transpired in Drew’s past, but it was only eluded to briefly.
What I did love about the story was how each person was so different from their love interest. An Army captain and a professor hoping to become a published author, a palm reader and a farmer, and a famous musician with the small town banker- none of them made likely couples, but they managed to put their issues aside and became intent on making those differences work in their favor.
So, despite a few miscues here or there, the romances are sweet and tender and also proves that small town lovers can be just as sexy and saucy as a their big city counterparts. Overall this is an enjoyable read, and fans of this author and series will be satisfied with this latest edition.
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I don’t know what it is about small town secrets and romance, but I never get tired of reading them. The town of Harmony may be tiny but a lot more happens here than people realize.
In this eighth installment of the series we have three couples to get to know. First up is Millanie, a captain in the army who is badly injured and must return to civilian life. As she enters the closest airport she is nearly spent with exhaustion when a kindly stranger offers her a ride to the bed and breakfast in Harmony. This chance meeting with Andrew “Drew” an unassuming professor, will lead Millie to passionate heights she never thought possible.
Then there is Beau, a successful musician who returns to his hometown when his estranged father’s health is in jeopardy. When he meets his old friend Lark – aka- Trouble, the two renew their friendship.
The third story is about Kare, Drew’s sister, and Johnny. a farmer accused of his wife’s murder. Kare knows he is innocent and is determined to prove it.
There is so much going on that keeping tabs on these three scenarios became a little disjointed at times. There were a few issues I had trouble with, such as Beau’s story feeling completely out of touch with the other two couples and then a last ditch effort to tie him into their threads, which felt forced and sort of fell flat. His story was my favorite although Millie and Drew had the meatier story line and were the main focus of the novel. Beau and Lark have the most memorable scene in the book which was laugh out loud funny and very sensual.
The crime angle of the story was a bit murky and while Millie was supposed to be in charge of catching the criminals, it was Kare who did most of the work. Millie spent most of her time trying to convince herself of Drew’s possible involvement in the crime or convince herself of his innocence, and likewise she worried about their ‘friends with benefits’ arrangement.
I liked Kare and her offbeat personality and without her the story might have gotten a little dull. She is actually pretty smart and brave and I admired her loyalty to Drew and Johnny.
For some reason the chemistry between Millie and Drew didn’t work for me. Drew was a really nice man, albeit a little dull, who went through a terrible event in his life, but it’s not like it was something Millie would think less of him for. He’s too secretive and that leads Millie to suspect him of being involved in her case. I also wanted more details about what had transpired in Drew’s past, but it was only eluded to briefly.
What I did love about the story was how each person was so different from their love interest. An Army captain and a professor hoping to become a published author, a palm reader and a farmer, and a famous musician with the small town banker- none of them made likely couples, but they managed to put their issues aside and became intent on making those differences work in their favor.
So, despite a few miscues here or there, the romances are sweet and tender and also proves that small town lovers can be just as sexy and saucy as a their big city counterparts. Overall this is an enjoyable read, and fans of this author and series will be satisfied with this latest edition.
March 21, 2017
a wonderful, heart-warming series overall. i must've spent the past couple of months with these books alone, and i'm sad to see the journey come to an end. highly recommended!
May 18, 2015
4.5 stars. One True Heart by Jodi Thomas is #8 in her Harmony series, and I have read and loved them all. As I began I was a little unsure as there were a few new characters in town and I so love all those ones I know. However - hooked on the first page! Jodi Thomas deftly orchestrates the characters, and in no time at all I was happily treading the streets of Harmony. And there were little glimpses of many of the characters I love.
Millanie, returning to Harmony after being wounded in war, tired, lost, and out of balance. However while she might be on crutches she's not helpless! She is also determined, independent and no push over. Loved her from the start.
Drew Cunningham has had a tough upbringing, after being wounded, he is hiding out in a cabin not far from Harmony. He avoids crowds and likes nothing better than to hang out with his favourite family - the Morgans. While he endeavoured to go off the grid, his half sister Kare tracked him down and now she is in town too. Is Kare a little flaky? She works in the back of the local bookshop and offers fortune telling. Sounds like she has quite a following. She is kind and caring the elderly people in the town love her.
Johnny Wheeler is a farmer, his wife just walked out on him and he just wants to bury her! Johnny was a delightful character, and two of his little jokes had me laughing loud and heartily. It wasn't long before I was cheering him on.
And then Beau is back in town. I've always loved Beau so it was great to see him and his guitar around again for awhile. I had forgotten what he and Trouble used to get up to, but this book reminded me and forwarded that little story wonderfully well.
There is a little mystery and danger, characters finding themselves, relationships that grow and blossom in One True Heart. I loved the humour and loved how that entangled in the lives of Reagan and Noah, characters from the start of this series. Warmed my heart and made me laugh.
Millanie, returning to Harmony after being wounded in war, tired, lost, and out of balance. However while she might be on crutches she's not helpless! She is also determined, independent and no push over. Loved her from the start.
Drew Cunningham has had a tough upbringing, after being wounded, he is hiding out in a cabin not far from Harmony. He avoids crowds and likes nothing better than to hang out with his favourite family - the Morgans. While he endeavoured to go off the grid, his half sister Kare tracked him down and now she is in town too. Is Kare a little flaky? She works in the back of the local bookshop and offers fortune telling. Sounds like she has quite a following. She is kind and caring the elderly people in the town love her.
Johnny Wheeler is a farmer, his wife just walked out on him and he just wants to bury her! Johnny was a delightful character, and two of his little jokes had me laughing loud and heartily. It wasn't long before I was cheering him on.
And then Beau is back in town. I've always loved Beau so it was great to see him and his guitar around again for awhile. I had forgotten what he and Trouble used to get up to, but this book reminded me and forwarded that little story wonderfully well.
There is a little mystery and danger, characters finding themselves, relationships that grow and blossom in One True Heart. I loved the humour and loved how that entangled in the lives of Reagan and Noah, characters from the start of this series. Warmed my heart and made me laugh.
August 21, 2016
I love small town stories and this is why I picked up this book at my local library branch. As it turns out it is book 8 in a series and my 1st book read from this author. Who knew, lol.
I give this 4.5 stars!!! It was profound writing. Touching. I cried and smiled and overall had a great time. This story makes you melt! I will totally be reading book 1+ and anything else by this author I can get my hands on. I am totally a new fan! =0)
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Note to Self
Spoiler: Texas
Millanie McAllen(Capt.,32yo,sis,decommissioned,2nd cousin,trauma survivor,new pal1)+Dr.Drew Cunningham( Andrew,34yo,half bro,older,college Prof.,trauma survivor,pal),Kare Cunningham (Karaleen,24yo,half sis,fortune teller,ex-forensic accounting career,IRS part time employee, researcher contact,new pal1)+Johnny Wheeler(farmer,27yo,bro,divorced),Beau Yates(pro country singer,musician,rich)+Ashley L. Powers(Lark,VP bank,daughter,rich),Noah McAllen(24/25yo, cousin,cowboy,ex-bull rider,ranch owner)+Reagan(Rea,apple orchard manager)&Utah(abandoned by mother,adopted baby),Sheriff Alex Matheson(aunt, 2nd cousin), Saralynn Matheson(12yo,niece, crippled),[Phillip McAllen(bro)],Wendell Wheeler (Wen,younger bro,mall guard),Garth Powers (bank chain owner,dad)+?,Ruthie Yates(step mom,new widow),Sergeant Hughes(Millanie's induction officer,pal1),Luke Morgan(cafe owner,retired ATF,1st sheriff of Twisted Creek,pal)+Allie Morgan(cafe owner, pal)=Jefferson M.(their son,Jeff),Major Katherine Cummings()+(funeral director)=baby,Martha Q Patterson(inn owner,writer's club leader),Hank Matheson(),Harley(bar owner),Rick Matheson(lawyer,running for district attorney),Deputy Rogers +Debra,Dr. Addison Spencer+Tinch Turner.
I give this 4.5 stars!!! It was profound writing. Touching. I cried and smiled and overall had a great time. This story makes you melt! I will totally be reading book 1+ and anything else by this author I can get my hands on. I am totally a new fan! =0)
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Note to Self
Spoiler: Texas
Millanie McAllen(Capt.,32yo,sis,decommissioned,2nd cousin,trauma survivor,new pal1)+Dr.Drew Cunningham( Andrew,34yo,half bro,older,college Prof.,trauma survivor,pal),Kare Cunningham (Karaleen,24yo,half sis,fortune teller,ex-forensic accounting career,IRS part time employee, researcher contact,new pal1)+Johnny Wheeler(farmer,27yo,bro,divorced),Beau Yates(pro country singer,musician,rich)+Ashley L. Powers(Lark,VP bank,daughter,rich),Noah McAllen(24/25yo, cousin,cowboy,ex-bull rider,ranch owner)+Reagan(Rea,apple orchard manager)&Utah(abandoned by mother,adopted baby),Sheriff Alex Matheson(aunt, 2nd cousin), Saralynn Matheson(12yo,niece, crippled),[Phillip McAllen(bro)],Wendell Wheeler (Wen,younger bro,mall guard),Garth Powers (bank chain owner,dad)+?,Ruthie Yates(step mom,new widow),Sergeant Hughes(Millanie's induction officer,pal1),Luke Morgan(cafe owner,retired ATF,1st sheriff of Twisted Creek,pal)+Allie Morgan(cafe owner, pal)=Jefferson M.(their son,Jeff),Major Katherine Cummings()+(funeral director)=baby,Martha Q Patterson(inn owner,writer's club leader),Hank Matheson(),Harley(bar owner),Rick Matheson(lawyer,running for district attorney),Deputy Rogers +Debra,Dr. Addison Spencer+Tinch Turner.
August 26, 2015
One True Heart I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley. I honestly have no idea how to rate On True Heart. The idea is complex enough but I felt like a tourist passing through a really small town where everyone else knows the ins and outs, the secrets, the stories and the people passing me by on the sidewalk. I was window shopping instead of doing the full shopping spree along with everyone else because the residents were the only ones given a ticket to the store. I was fascinated, I was drawn, I was curious. I wanted to know more but it left me with more questions than answers. There's so much more to the community and I know the information is there but I had to face the fact that I hadn't been a part of the previous journey the town or its residents had been on. I realized that the only book I've read is the prequel that started it all which was great because it hinted at the glimpses but I wondered, was there so much more I was missing out on? Some secret club password I hadn't gained because I missed the journey? I'm not really sure. That being said there is a lot that I did enjoy and quite a bit that left me with a wonderful impression of Harmony and its residents. It was enough to win my heart but I wanted more, I wanted to explore the lives and the mysteries I felt had been left open to explore.
April 14, 2015
Best Series!
You can never get bored with a Harmony series novel. Three love stories woven together make a great novel. Beau comes back to town where his roots are. We meet the girl in the red mustang. Four new characters...loved that Drew and the Captain fall in love plus his crazy sister and the farmer. Small town intrigue.Martha Q appears again in her role as innkeeper...I love this town!
You can never get bored with a Harmony series novel. Three love stories woven together make a great novel. Beau comes back to town where his roots are. We meet the girl in the red mustang. Four new characters...loved that Drew and the Captain fall in love plus his crazy sister and the farmer. Small town intrigue.Martha Q appears again in her role as innkeeper...I love this town!
June 7, 2015
Ive read all of the books in tthis series and although thisone stats out at the inn with several old characters popping in, I really wanted to revisit the characters we had already met and were left hanging than to meet all new characters again. It was good, but being a nosey neighbor myself I wanted the low down on everyone!
June 11, 2015
Harmony has lost it's appeal....time to move on.
December 31, 2015
Not my favorite Harmony book. I had a hard time finishing this book.
January 6, 2016
Not as good as the others. I ended up skimming because I was so bored and I didn't care anything about the characters in this one.
August 23, 2025
#8 in the Harmony chick lit series
This was a wonderful end (for the most part) to this series. Millanie is soldier who has been injured and is now home in Harmony, mostly because she doesn't have anywhere else to go. When Drew picks her up at the airport, they connect immediately, on a deep emotional level. Drew is pushing for a relationship, but Millie is going slow, having a hard time trusting him. When she gets an assignment to look for a bad guy in their midst, she can't help but wonder what he is hiding. She's working with Kare, Drew's sister, who is an excellent researcher for the government, although most people in town (including her brother) think she's a flake. Johnny Wheeler, a local farmer, is accused of killing his wife, and Kare befriends him while he's in jail, insisting that he's innocent. At the same time, we move along with Beau Yates when he comes home because of his sick father, and he meets again the girl named Trouble that he knew as a teenager. As always, the stories all move forward quickly, sometimes working together and sometimes staying separate. We revisit with Hank and Martha Q (and briefly Mrs. Bates) from previous books. This is a warm small town, with helpful and kind people without feeling totally intrusive. Sweet and feel-good.
This was a wonderful end (for the most part) to this series. Millanie is soldier who has been injured and is now home in Harmony, mostly because she doesn't have anywhere else to go. When Drew picks her up at the airport, they connect immediately, on a deep emotional level. Drew is pushing for a relationship, but Millie is going slow, having a hard time trusting him. When she gets an assignment to look for a bad guy in their midst, she can't help but wonder what he is hiding. She's working with Kare, Drew's sister, who is an excellent researcher for the government, although most people in town (including her brother) think she's a flake. Johnny Wheeler, a local farmer, is accused of killing his wife, and Kare befriends him while he's in jail, insisting that he's innocent. At the same time, we move along with Beau Yates when he comes home because of his sick father, and he meets again the girl named Trouble that he knew as a teenager. As always, the stories all move forward quickly, sometimes working together and sometimes staying separate. We revisit with Hank and Martha Q (and briefly Mrs. Bates) from previous books. This is a warm small town, with helpful and kind people without feeling totally intrusive. Sweet and feel-good.
February 25, 2018
This was a very nice read. I honestly enjoyed the plot and the mystery of trying to figure out who the scoundrel was in harmony. The flirting back-and-forth between the different couples was a little bit confusing for me especially since I’m not very familiar with this series having only read one other book. But I liked it. I really thought the characters were quite real. I think there was one scene where Lark I think took things a little too far (if you read the book you’ll know what I’m talking about) but other than that I think the relationship were relatively real and well written. The school shooting angle of the plot, which took place five years before this book and in the past of one of the characters, was a little bit unfortunately timed given recent events in the “real world“. But I guess it made you sympathize even more with that character.
April 6, 2026
The story had several parts. They were all intertwined.
The soldier is leaving the service after being injured and trying to start over I. Her hometown. A small town in the middle of nowhere where you knew everyone. She is met at the airport by an unexpected professor on his way home. They fall for each other but struggle to get together. There are two other couples who are struggling to find each other. As the story unfolds. They all find the love they were looking for while catching a drug smuggler who has made his home in this small town in Texas.
The soldier is leaving the service after being injured and trying to start over I. Her hometown. A small town in the middle of nowhere where you knew everyone. She is met at the airport by an unexpected professor on his way home. They fall for each other but struggle to get together. There are two other couples who are struggling to find each other. As the story unfolds. They all find the love they were looking for while catching a drug smuggler who has made his home in this small town in Texas.
January 3, 2021
This book was a great cap to the series. It didn’t draw every character back into the story line - just enough to remind you that you were in Harmony, Texas, and you’d been there before! Characters that had been underlings in previous books rose to the top, like cream! The main story line was not hampered by this window dressing. Jodi Thomas handles her characters well. There is understated passion through her work, but it never caused this reader to blush. A fun, lighthearted pandemic escape!
September 13, 2022
Loved the couples!!
This was a fun and sweet romance books. All the characters turned into my best friends. I truly wish them well with their new romances. They seem perfectly matched! I didn't want to put this down but also didn't want to finish it too quickly. I have ready many of Jody Thomas books and this one might be my favorite story. I don't know how I missed it, but am
so happy to have found it now! Great love stories!!!
This was a fun and sweet romance books. All the characters turned into my best friends. I truly wish them well with their new romances. They seem perfectly matched! I didn't want to put this down but also didn't want to finish it too quickly. I have ready many of Jody Thomas books and this one might be my favorite story. I don't know how I missed it, but am
so happy to have found it now! Great love stories!!!
June 24, 2023
Another GREAT book in the Harmony Series
I have reread the Harmony series several times over the years and just finished book 8 again. I just can't believe I forgot to give a review. Jodi Thomas is a gifted, talented and wonderful writer. One True Heart is filled with heart warming moments, intrigue, romantic drama, and laugh out loud situations. Grab this book and get comfy to read and enjoy a "I can not put it down book that is pure entertainment!!!"
I have reread the Harmony series several times over the years and just finished book 8 again. I just can't believe I forgot to give a review. Jodi Thomas is a gifted, talented and wonderful writer. One True Heart is filled with heart warming moments, intrigue, romantic drama, and laugh out loud situations. Grab this book and get comfy to read and enjoy a "I can not put it down book that is pure entertainment!!!"
August 15, 2017
The characters are interesting and believable. There were three different stories going on in the small town of Harmony at the same time. This is #8 in a series, but there was no problem following the stories beginning with #8. I plan to read earlier books in the series. I usually listen to the audio books. This one was well done. I enjoyed it.
May 31, 2019
Mostly new characters in this book, so I was a little disappointed that I didn't get more from many of my favorite Harmony characters. There was resolution with Beau Yates's story and his mystery girl from the previous books. Also there was some good intrigue that was woven in with the various story lines. This whole series has had a really good mix of romance and suspense.
August 17, 2023
Read the reviews. I wish I had paid more attention. Most reviews are from 2015. As usual there were several stories with different people from Harmony. This one leaves you hanging for the next book that follows. Unfortunately, that book still has not been written in 2023.
I do not recommend this book. Unless another follows this one and ties up loose ends. Disappointing.
I do not recommend this book. Unless another follows this one and ties up loose ends. Disappointing.
August 30, 2025
another great story àbout Harmony. It continues telling a story of interesting people both new and old
, this time Ms. Thomas has created a thriller with a man that turns out creating such havoc in the community, So, a little love and a little intrigue equals another page turner. looking forward for more.
, this time Ms. Thomas has created a thriller with a man that turns out creating such havoc in the community, So, a little love and a little intrigue equals another page turner. looking forward for more.
March 1, 2026
This concludes the “Welcome to Harmony” journey. Really enjoyed this series. She veered away from the initial characters in this last book. I guess the earlier characters were settled in their lives etc. and that probably is why she ended it. She has many other books out there and I may try others down the line.
July 29, 2017
Not really that much to say except this was my last favorite of the Harmony series books. Glad it wasn't one of the first or I probably wouldn't have read the others and that would have been a shame as they are all quite good.
August 20, 2017
New characters introduced as well as familiar characters combine to make a good book. I look forward to hearing more complete story/wedding story Johnny and Kare, Millanie and Drew, Beau and Trouble. I look forward to a follow up on on all these folks.
November 23, 2018
I enjoyed all three stories. Order of enjoyment: farmer and his fairy, professor and his solider, singer and his banker. One side note the book hinted that Rick was running for district attorney and would likely grow old single. What happened to his marshall????
June 6, 2023
I'm so glad Beau found Trouble, even though things don't go smoothly at first. Poor Johnny Wheeler can't get a break, but he does get his own fairy. And two wounded people find love together. A great read!
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