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Watervalley #2
Each Shining Hour
Welcome to the timeless charms of small-town Watervalley, Tennessee—where young Dr. Luke Bradford is beginning to feel at home…
When he comes to the aid of a woman at the grocery store, Luke is fascinated to learn she is Estelle Pillow, the cheery sister to his prickly housekeeper, Connie. Estelle wants to open a bakery in town—and Connie’s disapproval of the venture stirs up a whirlwind of emotions between the siblings. But Luke’s attention is soon diverted when he learns about a long-ago double murder.…
During World War II, an unknown traveler arrived in town, and before the day was over, he and the local baker lay dead near the bandstand at the local lake. The incident has since been exaggerated into Watervalley lore—with the newcomer rumored to have been a German spy. As Luke pieces together exactly what happened, he realizes that the consequences of this event have rippled painfully into the lives of townsfolk he has come to know.
As winter gives way to spring, Luke keeps busy at the medical clinic and enters a tentative, exhilarating romance. And when his support of Estelle’s bakery collides with new revelations about the old murder, Luke witnesses the true power of reconciliation working in the hearts of those he holds dear—a revelation that will change his life.
READERS GUIDE INCLUDED
When he comes to the aid of a woman at the grocery store, Luke is fascinated to learn she is Estelle Pillow, the cheery sister to his prickly housekeeper, Connie. Estelle wants to open a bakery in town—and Connie’s disapproval of the venture stirs up a whirlwind of emotions between the siblings. But Luke’s attention is soon diverted when he learns about a long-ago double murder.…
During World War II, an unknown traveler arrived in town, and before the day was over, he and the local baker lay dead near the bandstand at the local lake. The incident has since been exaggerated into Watervalley lore—with the newcomer rumored to have been a German spy. As Luke pieces together exactly what happened, he realizes that the consequences of this event have rippled painfully into the lives of townsfolk he has come to know.
As winter gives way to spring, Luke keeps busy at the medical clinic and enters a tentative, exhilarating romance. And when his support of Estelle’s bakery collides with new revelations about the old murder, Luke witnesses the true power of reconciliation working in the hearts of those he holds dear—a revelation that will change his life.
READERS GUIDE INCLUDED
423 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2014
58 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Jeff High
8 books154 followersAfter growing up on a dairy farm in Tennessee, Jeff High attained degrees in literature and nursing. He is the award winning and best selling author of four books in the Watervalley Series.
He lived in Nashville for many years, and throughout the country as a travel nurse, before returning to his original hometown of Columbia, Tennessee. He remains in the medical field and divides his time between family and his small farm (appropriately named Summerfield,) in the rural hills of Middle Tennessee.
He lived in Nashville for many years, and throughout the country as a travel nurse, before returning to his original hometown of Columbia, Tennessee. He remains in the medical field and divides his time between family and his small farm (appropriately named Summerfield,) in the rural hills of Middle Tennessee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 1, 2014
I just finished reading Each Shining Hour by Jeff High. It is a bit sad to come to the end of a Jeff High novel. In my mind, I have created Watervalley and all the inhabitants, thanks to the ability of the writer to give me the tools to do so. His characters are my friends and I will miss them until his next novel emerges. This new, talented author writes dialog like the reader is listening rather than reading the conversations. His details are complete, yet not long and drawn out. This is Jeff High’s second novel of Watervalley and his second novel! Mr. High has a level of accomplishment that makes it is hard to believe this is only the beginning of his career as a novelist. His first novel, More Things in Heaven and Earth, was about Dr. Luke Bradford coming to Watervalley.
This is not just the story of a young, country doctor, rather the stories of numerous community members. It has a mystery, a romance, and misunderstood differences for the reader to explore. I love his style of character development; a style that allows the reader plenty of room to make his own judgments of characters. I hope his next book continues to develop the community and does not begin to focus in on just a couple its members. Watervalley is a place I am anxious to read about in the future.
Much like novelist Jon Hassler, Jeff High writes about small town America. Both writers make their readers comfortable in their stories. Perhaps it is because they write about the area of the country they know and understand. Mr. High’s doctor and nurses seem genuine and easy for him to write about as he draws on his own experience of being a nurse. I find when writers write about what they know they are at their best. It is nice to see quality writing is alive in America. I highly recommended Each Shinning Hour to readers searching for a well-written story with real characters. Five stars!
The author sent my Uncorrected Proof to me. Good or bad, I review all books I read.
This is not just the story of a young, country doctor, rather the stories of numerous community members. It has a mystery, a romance, and misunderstood differences for the reader to explore. I love his style of character development; a style that allows the reader plenty of room to make his own judgments of characters. I hope his next book continues to develop the community and does not begin to focus in on just a couple its members. Watervalley is a place I am anxious to read about in the future.
Much like novelist Jon Hassler, Jeff High writes about small town America. Both writers make their readers comfortable in their stories. Perhaps it is because they write about the area of the country they know and understand. Mr. High’s doctor and nurses seem genuine and easy for him to write about as he draws on his own experience of being a nurse. I find when writers write about what they know they are at their best. It is nice to see quality writing is alive in America. I highly recommended Each Shinning Hour to readers searching for a well-written story with real characters. Five stars!
The author sent my Uncorrected Proof to me. Good or bad, I review all books I read.
August 20, 2014
Jeff High’s second novel of Watervalley, Each Shining Hour, begins on the heels of where his first novel, More Things in Heaven and Earth, leaves off. The regular cast of Watervalley characters is joined by some new faces in town making for a rollicking good time as they attempt to solve a WWII mystery. Although the book has a good old-fashioned mystery, it wouldn’t be entirely fair to call it such. It’s so much more! It’s a romance, a humorous comedy, a piece of historical fiction, and even a bit of philosophical fiction. While Dr. Luke Bradford continues to build his practice and explore the countryside, the local inhabitants of Watervalley struggle with the after-effects of their ancestors’ decisions. Decisions that build and culminate into moments of revelation, understanding, and forgiveness.
Reading Each Shining Hour doesn’t just let you imagine the town or its’ characters, it transports you to that time and place with writing that flows smoothly and fluidly. Once again, Jeff High takes his knowledge of people and uses it to craft a superbly written book that leaves you wanting to revisit the community of Watervalley over and over again.
Reading Each Shining Hour doesn’t just let you imagine the town or its’ characters, it transports you to that time and place with writing that flows smoothly and fluidly. Once again, Jeff High takes his knowledge of people and uses it to craft a superbly written book that leaves you wanting to revisit the community of Watervalley over and over again.
September 23, 2014
Each Shining Hour (the second book in the Watervalley series) did not disappoint this Tennessee native. More Things in Heaven and Earth (the first book in the series) left me wanting more. To be transported into the quaint town of Watervalley and to mingle with its citizens again takes me to my happy place.
Jeff High has a passion for writing and he discreetly intertwines many different genres in doing so. Each Shining Hour brings an heir of mystery and history, philosophical lessons, insights on friendships and overcoming adversity, as well as understanding personal struggles. You are guaranteed to laugh while navigating the winding roads of this superb novel.
Do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in the lovely town of Watervalley, you won't regret it.
Jeff High has a passion for writing and he discreetly intertwines many different genres in doing so. Each Shining Hour brings an heir of mystery and history, philosophical lessons, insights on friendships and overcoming adversity, as well as understanding personal struggles. You are guaranteed to laugh while navigating the winding roads of this superb novel.
Do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in the lovely town of Watervalley, you won't regret it.
October 22, 2014
Wow, that is all I can say!!
Jeff High scores another hit with his latest installment, and it makes me even more excited to read the next one. I truly wish it wouldn't be next year before getting the next one, but it makes for a highly anticipated continuation.
Having met Jeff & his wife, Dawn, makes the books special to me. They are both nice & personable, and I can still hear Jeff's voice reading from his first book (More Things in Heaven & Earth.
Jeff High scores another hit with his latest installment, and it makes me even more excited to read the next one. I truly wish it wouldn't be next year before getting the next one, but it makes for a highly anticipated continuation.
Having met Jeff & his wife, Dawn, makes the books special to me. They are both nice & personable, and I can still hear Jeff's voice reading from his first book (More Things in Heaven & Earth.
August 27, 2014
Rarely do I read a book where I feel the characters could be my friends. Author Jeff High brilliantly unfolds the depth of each one while being able to keep the readers attention on an unfolding storyline. He creates a space where the reader can become lost, as mystery, personal pain, skeletons and personalities become entwined. As each chapter closes, I couldn't wait for the next. What is most inspiring is Dr. Luke Bradford learns what we all seek in life, real meaning and purpose.
March 6, 2016
Rated 4.5 Blue Ribbons. Also posted at TBRMountainRange.com where you can find more of my reviews by category tags.
Throughout this wonderful novel you can hear the chorus of voices from the residents of Watervalley, past and present, influencing this young doctor’s choices. EACH SHINING HOUR is an oftentimes laugh-out-loud funny tale about the eccentricities of small town life, balanced amongst poignant moments and how this life can be exactly what you don’t know you need.
Dr. Luke Bradford is drawn to Watervalley in Middle Tennessee to be this small town’s doctor for three years, in exchange for their payment of his medical school expenses. He didn’t expect the people of Watervalley to change his outlook on life and his future. His big city ways are not prepared for the embrace that small town rural life can cloak around you, if you’re open enough to accept it.
Connie Thompson, the good doctor’s wealthy housekeeper, and her ambitious baker-wanna-be, “Christmas ornament” sister, Estelle Pillow, kick off the first two chapters with just how colorful life in Watervalley can be. Estelle’s pacemaker is out of whack and unfortunately for Dr. Bradford, he touches her at the wrong moment and receives a jolt he won’t soon forget. This scene sets the stage for the doctor’s sense of humor while interacting with these sisters and made me hopeful that I would continue to enjoy this novel immensely. This hope was granted as I read further and realized there’s a sweet romance developing for this single doctor within this book, too. Having already bonded in friendship with his housekeeper, it doesn’t take Luke very long to realize that the loving, comical banter between Connie and her sister has won his heart, making him part of their support system for the future. Theirs will be a long friendship, among others, that will affect his new life in Watervalley.
Throughout this wonderful novel you can hear the chorus of voices from the residents of Watervalley, past and present, influencing this young doctor’s choices. When he discovers a years-old unsolved murder, will he be able to bring closure to the rumors that have become truth without the evidence? Will he keep his heart intact or lose it to the woman who introduces him to what’s special about living in rural America?
I fell in love with the people of Watervalley in this fictional tale that takes place in Middle Tennessee. There were times when I laughed literally out loud at their repartee and I had to immediately read those parts to my husband. This book is definitely one you’ll want to share with friends and family. I’m betting that it would be especially charming in audio, if it gets released in that format in the future. I think that’s because the storytelling style reminds me of LAKE WOBEGON DAYS by Garrison Keillor, which I listened to many years ago.
Dr. Luke Bradford is young with enough geekiness and silliness inside that he finds it impossible to contain it around these people who seem to draw that out of him. He’s professional, but not without a sense of humor and a curiosity about life that endears him to the reader. An old file found in Luke’s office turns him into an amateur sleuth, snooping until he uncovers the truth of this town’s only murder. Luke is also a bit of a dolt when it comes to romance, which made me hope he’d finally get it together and win the girl of his dreams. What a fun journey—Luke bumbles, recovers and scores!
What I loved most about author Jeff High’s writing style is that there are moments when he made me laugh at his “such a guy” and sometimes dorky outlook that he gave to his main male character, and yet, this author has a way of honing in on some of the most amazing qualities of women with a revered respect and playfulness. You start to sense a realistic understanding of love, life and all its intricacies because the author has such a good time poking fun at relationships and human inadequacies as well as celebrating their triumphs. Jeff High’s writing style is genuine and caring with a keen amount of laugh-out-loud enjoyment.
I loved those “such a guy” moments of the main character mixed in with his respect for women, as well as Luke’s cluelessness when it comes to being the right type of romantic guy for the woman he’s falling for—Don Juan he is not, which makes him charmingly realistic. There’s a well-rounded depth to Jeff High’s female characters in EACH SHINING HOUR, from the one Luke falls in love with to the women you can easily picture as the well-intentioned and forgiving mother figures. The male character camaraderie is believable and amusing as they poke fun at each other, trying to find their way in life and love. Expect a few tears before the end if you become as wrapped up in these characters’ lives as I was. It’s an entertaining style that’s both addictive and endearing.
One character that is especially charming in a curmudgeonly sort of way is John Harris. A widower, John’s ambivalence toward life and his eventual choice to live it adds a lively friendship for Luke, as well as much entertainment for the reader when John finds the right woman for himself.
I didn’t read book one, MORE THINGS IN HEAVEN AND EARTH, so I feel you can easily read book two, EACH SHINING HOUR, as a standalone without any difficulty. But, I’m sure if you’re like me, you’ll want to read book one to find out what you missed in the beginning of this WATERVALLEY series. EACH SHINING HOUR is an oftentimes laugh-out-loud funny tale about the eccentricities of small town life, balanced amongst poignant moments and how this life can be exactly what you don’t know you need. A truly wonderful feel-good novel sprinkled with inspiration for leading a fulfilling, loving life full of forgiveness and hope.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
Throughout this wonderful novel you can hear the chorus of voices from the residents of Watervalley, past and present, influencing this young doctor’s choices. EACH SHINING HOUR is an oftentimes laugh-out-loud funny tale about the eccentricities of small town life, balanced amongst poignant moments and how this life can be exactly what you don’t know you need.
Dr. Luke Bradford is drawn to Watervalley in Middle Tennessee to be this small town’s doctor for three years, in exchange for their payment of his medical school expenses. He didn’t expect the people of Watervalley to change his outlook on life and his future. His big city ways are not prepared for the embrace that small town rural life can cloak around you, if you’re open enough to accept it.
Connie Thompson, the good doctor’s wealthy housekeeper, and her ambitious baker-wanna-be, “Christmas ornament” sister, Estelle Pillow, kick off the first two chapters with just how colorful life in Watervalley can be. Estelle’s pacemaker is out of whack and unfortunately for Dr. Bradford, he touches her at the wrong moment and receives a jolt he won’t soon forget. This scene sets the stage for the doctor’s sense of humor while interacting with these sisters and made me hopeful that I would continue to enjoy this novel immensely. This hope was granted as I read further and realized there’s a sweet romance developing for this single doctor within this book, too. Having already bonded in friendship with his housekeeper, it doesn’t take Luke very long to realize that the loving, comical banter between Connie and her sister has won his heart, making him part of their support system for the future. Theirs will be a long friendship, among others, that will affect his new life in Watervalley.
Throughout this wonderful novel you can hear the chorus of voices from the residents of Watervalley, past and present, influencing this young doctor’s choices. When he discovers a years-old unsolved murder, will he be able to bring closure to the rumors that have become truth without the evidence? Will he keep his heart intact or lose it to the woman who introduces him to what’s special about living in rural America?
I fell in love with the people of Watervalley in this fictional tale that takes place in Middle Tennessee. There were times when I laughed literally out loud at their repartee and I had to immediately read those parts to my husband. This book is definitely one you’ll want to share with friends and family. I’m betting that it would be especially charming in audio, if it gets released in that format in the future. I think that’s because the storytelling style reminds me of LAKE WOBEGON DAYS by Garrison Keillor, which I listened to many years ago.
Dr. Luke Bradford is young with enough geekiness and silliness inside that he finds it impossible to contain it around these people who seem to draw that out of him. He’s professional, but not without a sense of humor and a curiosity about life that endears him to the reader. An old file found in Luke’s office turns him into an amateur sleuth, snooping until he uncovers the truth of this town’s only murder. Luke is also a bit of a dolt when it comes to romance, which made me hope he’d finally get it together and win the girl of his dreams. What a fun journey—Luke bumbles, recovers and scores!
What I loved most about author Jeff High’s writing style is that there are moments when he made me laugh at his “such a guy” and sometimes dorky outlook that he gave to his main male character, and yet, this author has a way of honing in on some of the most amazing qualities of women with a revered respect and playfulness. You start to sense a realistic understanding of love, life and all its intricacies because the author has such a good time poking fun at relationships and human inadequacies as well as celebrating their triumphs. Jeff High’s writing style is genuine and caring with a keen amount of laugh-out-loud enjoyment.
I loved those “such a guy” moments of the main character mixed in with his respect for women, as well as Luke’s cluelessness when it comes to being the right type of romantic guy for the woman he’s falling for—Don Juan he is not, which makes him charmingly realistic. There’s a well-rounded depth to Jeff High’s female characters in EACH SHINING HOUR, from the one Luke falls in love with to the women you can easily picture as the well-intentioned and forgiving mother figures. The male character camaraderie is believable and amusing as they poke fun at each other, trying to find their way in life and love. Expect a few tears before the end if you become as wrapped up in these characters’ lives as I was. It’s an entertaining style that’s both addictive and endearing.
One character that is especially charming in a curmudgeonly sort of way is John Harris. A widower, John’s ambivalence toward life and his eventual choice to live it adds a lively friendship for Luke, as well as much entertainment for the reader when John finds the right woman for himself.
I didn’t read book one, MORE THINGS IN HEAVEN AND EARTH, so I feel you can easily read book two, EACH SHINING HOUR, as a standalone without any difficulty. But, I’m sure if you’re like me, you’ll want to read book one to find out what you missed in the beginning of this WATERVALLEY series. EACH SHINING HOUR is an oftentimes laugh-out-loud funny tale about the eccentricities of small town life, balanced amongst poignant moments and how this life can be exactly what you don’t know you need. A truly wonderful feel-good novel sprinkled with inspiration for leading a fulfilling, loving life full of forgiveness and hope.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.
July 27, 2022
Second book in a series that's a sort of combination of All Creatures and Mitford. Quite a bit different from the first book as this one turns into a murder mystery on a cold case. Tidy and happy ending, a little too much so, but overall a good summer read.
December 1, 2025
A stellar continuation.These characters are so real, you feel you KNOW them. And, the often witty dialog shouldn't be missed.
October 7, 2014
Author Jeff High takes readers back to Watervalley, a small town in Tennessee that could be in Norman Rockwell photo. High blends together several genres from mystery to romance to bring the reader a well balanced novel about finding meaning in life no matter where you are. With superb characterizations, excellent dialog skills, and a touch of hilarity, High proves that writing about what you know can turn into a fantastic novel!
What I liked:
The Watervalley series centers around Dr. Luke Bradford, a hot shot doctor who is using a little backwater town as a stepping stone to a great career in the big city. Little did Luke know, that Watervalley might turn out to be just what the doctor ordered. High did a wonderful job of establishing Luke in the first book in the series, starting his practice and introducing readers to some of the townspeople in Watervalley. Now in the second book, he builds on that wonderful start and strengthens the readers appreciation of this little town. When you become a writer they often tell you to write what you know and that's just what Jeff High did.
Watervalley is a small town and it's obvious that the author has lived in small towns. He understands the dynamic, the way word travels, the little nuances of what makes each small town tick and he's incorporated all of that into this little Tennessee town. Not only that, but he uses his own experiences as a nurse to enhance his characters in the medical profession. Why does Dr. Luke seem so authentic? Probably because Jeff High once knew someone like him or constructed him for several different doctors. High shows that writing what you know really does work.
I loved the mystery in this one. It is not necessarily the main focus of the book, but it certainly adds a little punch to it. Jeff High has a great sense of humor and he uses it often in his writing, but when he gets down to the nitty-gritty of a double homicide dating back to WWII, it's no laughing matter. I enjoyed the way High showed how decisions made so long ago were still affecting the town. Adding that to the new bakery that Estelle is trying to start and Connie's opposition to it, there is a lot going on in Watervalley.
The way High writes dialog is very intriguing to me. I found myself feeling like I was listening to these conversions, maybe I was sitting in the booth next to the characters or a patient in the waiting room or even a fly on the wall. Often in books the dialog can be stilted or jerky, but not this one. High writes in such a way that readers feel like they know these characters, they care about them, they want to help them solve their problems or fix their love life. It was a great way to show how dialog should be written.
Bottom Line:
I enjoyed High's sense of love for this town and it's people. It was easy to tell that this was a story he cared about. You can feel it on every page. This is a great small town read, that has a little bit of fun, a little bit of romance and a touch of mystery. A great addition to the series!
What I liked:
The Watervalley series centers around Dr. Luke Bradford, a hot shot doctor who is using a little backwater town as a stepping stone to a great career in the big city. Little did Luke know, that Watervalley might turn out to be just what the doctor ordered. High did a wonderful job of establishing Luke in the first book in the series, starting his practice and introducing readers to some of the townspeople in Watervalley. Now in the second book, he builds on that wonderful start and strengthens the readers appreciation of this little town. When you become a writer they often tell you to write what you know and that's just what Jeff High did.
Watervalley is a small town and it's obvious that the author has lived in small towns. He understands the dynamic, the way word travels, the little nuances of what makes each small town tick and he's incorporated all of that into this little Tennessee town. Not only that, but he uses his own experiences as a nurse to enhance his characters in the medical profession. Why does Dr. Luke seem so authentic? Probably because Jeff High once knew someone like him or constructed him for several different doctors. High shows that writing what you know really does work.
I loved the mystery in this one. It is not necessarily the main focus of the book, but it certainly adds a little punch to it. Jeff High has a great sense of humor and he uses it often in his writing, but when he gets down to the nitty-gritty of a double homicide dating back to WWII, it's no laughing matter. I enjoyed the way High showed how decisions made so long ago were still affecting the town. Adding that to the new bakery that Estelle is trying to start and Connie's opposition to it, there is a lot going on in Watervalley.
The way High writes dialog is very intriguing to me. I found myself feeling like I was listening to these conversions, maybe I was sitting in the booth next to the characters or a patient in the waiting room or even a fly on the wall. Often in books the dialog can be stilted or jerky, but not this one. High writes in such a way that readers feel like they know these characters, they care about them, they want to help them solve their problems or fix their love life. It was a great way to show how dialog should be written.
Bottom Line:
I enjoyed High's sense of love for this town and it's people. It was easy to tell that this was a story he cared about. You can feel it on every page. This is a great small town read, that has a little bit of fun, a little bit of romance and a touch of mystery. A great addition to the series!
October 9, 2014
Luke is the local doctor in Watervalley, a lovely town in Tennessee. He arrived with a three year contract which guaranteed his medical school loan would be paid off. For that trade off, he gave up his dream of doing medical research and working in a large city; but the time he’s lived here has endeared him to the locals and them to him. Now we welcome some new and old characters in this second book of the series plus an addition to the plot of a complex mystery.
Connie is Luke’s housekeeper/cook/confidante. Her sister, Estelle, arrives with huge plans to open a bakery in a historic, beautiful building but there’s a mystery and several secrets associated with this place. It’s also said to be haunted as a terrible crime occurred right outside this place, involving the owner Oscar Fox and another man. Both murdered each other but no one really knows what sparked the deadly finale of their lives. Luke becomes fascinated by this mystery and sets out to learn more, with the assistance of his on-and-off-again girlfriend, Christine, and an older man who’s become a trusted friend, John. There are those who fight Luke on every turn but “a diamond” is the first clue to begin an intriguing search for the exposure of secrets and the truth to emerge.
Meanwhile, Luke gets a new nurse and continues working his medical magic on the people of Watervalley. His bedside manner is phenomenal; and he never hides the truth but always conveys it with sensitivity and compassion.
Estelle’s bakery dreams get thrown off for a brief time and the characters exhibit great humor and skills in getting past this huge obstacle. The “bad guys” do get theirs, you know (tongue in cheek indeed)!
Jeff High has improved his writing in this second Watervalley novel. The plot has just enough homey dialogue, genteel romance, brutal crime, intriguing mystery and an overall sense of reality in small-town living that never stops being endearing and gripping enough to make one want to keep reading without stopping! Very nicely crafted, Jeff High!
Connie is Luke’s housekeeper/cook/confidante. Her sister, Estelle, arrives with huge plans to open a bakery in a historic, beautiful building but there’s a mystery and several secrets associated with this place. It’s also said to be haunted as a terrible crime occurred right outside this place, involving the owner Oscar Fox and another man. Both murdered each other but no one really knows what sparked the deadly finale of their lives. Luke becomes fascinated by this mystery and sets out to learn more, with the assistance of his on-and-off-again girlfriend, Christine, and an older man who’s become a trusted friend, John. There are those who fight Luke on every turn but “a diamond” is the first clue to begin an intriguing search for the exposure of secrets and the truth to emerge.
Meanwhile, Luke gets a new nurse and continues working his medical magic on the people of Watervalley. His bedside manner is phenomenal; and he never hides the truth but always conveys it with sensitivity and compassion.
Estelle’s bakery dreams get thrown off for a brief time and the characters exhibit great humor and skills in getting past this huge obstacle. The “bad guys” do get theirs, you know (tongue in cheek indeed)!
Jeff High has improved his writing in this second Watervalley novel. The plot has just enough homey dialogue, genteel romance, brutal crime, intriguing mystery and an overall sense of reality in small-town living that never stops being endearing and gripping enough to make one want to keep reading without stopping! Very nicely crafted, Jeff High!
October 11, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this second novel in the Watervalley series. Dr. Luke Bradford has settled in and decided to stay and fulfill the three year contract with the Tennessee community. In this novel he has a mystery to solve and a beautiful woman to date.
The mystery is from decades ago. Oscar Fox had come to Watervalley and opened a bakery. He was involved in the murder of a German and was himself killed. The town people thought Oscar an infamous man. Luke found Fox's medical file in the old records of the clinic. He pursues the mystery. We readers discover, along with Luke, the truth behind who Oscar was and the real man he had been.
It's the characters that make the story. Connie's sister, Estelle, has come to Watervalley. What a set of sisters those two are. Their relationship is a kick. And can they dance! Then there is John. He's finally reconciled with the people of Watervalley. It was fun to watch him change, to see the hurts heal and his heart open up again. And how about that Sunshine with her colon cleanse!
Then again, maybe it's the dialog. High has a way with words. He is able to reveal the personalities of characters in his book through snappy dialog. I love it.
Life goes on in Watervalley. There are some slimy characters and some good ones. There is some cussin' and drinkin' and some going to church and some forgiving. Just like a small Tennessee town.
The mystery is from decades ago. Oscar Fox had come to Watervalley and opened a bakery. He was involved in the murder of a German and was himself killed. The town people thought Oscar an infamous man. Luke found Fox's medical file in the old records of the clinic. He pursues the mystery. We readers discover, along with Luke, the truth behind who Oscar was and the real man he had been.
It's the characters that make the story. Connie's sister, Estelle, has come to Watervalley. What a set of sisters those two are. Their relationship is a kick. And can they dance! Then there is John. He's finally reconciled with the people of Watervalley. It was fun to watch him change, to see the hurts heal and his heart open up again. And how about that Sunshine with her colon cleanse!
Then again, maybe it's the dialog. High has a way with words. He is able to reveal the personalities of characters in his book through snappy dialog. I love it.
Life goes on in Watervalley. There are some slimy characters and some good ones. There is some cussin' and drinkin' and some going to church and some forgiving. Just like a small Tennessee town.
December 22, 2023
As charming as the idyllic Watervalley is, this time, it lost a little bit of the charm that made the first book unforgettable for me.
...You have to act your way into feeling right because you'll never feel your way into acting right.
In Each Shining Hour , Dr Luke Bradford is immersed in solving an age-old double homicide and entranced by town darling Christine Chambers. He also has to deal with the arrival of the other Pillow sister, whose plans bring up some buried and hurtful issues for Connie Thompson, who continues to be a well-written and complex character with more additions to her impressive story.
Despite all the happenings in Watervalley, something felt missing for me. Halfway through, I realised it was the fact that Luke Bradford had morphed from a small-town doctor to a lovesick amateur detective. The medical issues were reduced in this book, and cute moments with Christine dominated several pages.
Regardless of its shortcomings, Each Shining Hour is a delightful book in an engaging series with humour and wit.
October 24, 2014
Each Shining Hour is the second book in the Watervalley series, which focuses on a young doctor, Luke Bradford, a transplant to a small Tenessee town. Although I did not read the first book in the series, it did not hamper my enjoyment of this book, and I was fully able to pick up on the action and characters.
I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
Each Shining Hour is a cozy mystery, but its strongest areas are in the area of describing small town life and in character development. The author, Jeff High, has a strength in writing about likeable, believable people. I cared about what happened to the people in the story and hope he continues to develop further books in this series.
The mystery was a bit weaker for me. It does not play a majpr role in the overall book, so i didn't really develop much interest in it.
Overall, an enjoyable read from a talented author!
I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
Each Shining Hour is a cozy mystery, but its strongest areas are in the area of describing small town life and in character development. The author, Jeff High, has a strength in writing about likeable, believable people. I cared about what happened to the people in the story and hope he continues to develop further books in this series.
The mystery was a bit weaker for me. It does not play a majpr role in the overall book, so i didn't really develop much interest in it.
Overall, an enjoyable read from a talented author!
August 1, 2014
Every town has its eccentrics, its stalwarts, and its heroes...but every town also has its mysteries. Jeff High has once again woven all of these together in his 2nd book about life in Watervalley, TN. His grasp of small town happenings is communicated with warmth, passion and just the right touch of humor (OK, I laughed out loud in some places!). While "Each Shining Hour" has mystery, history and romance...it is not a mystery novel; it is not a historical novel; and it is not a romance novel. It is a well-balanced story that invites the reader to visit a while with the Watervalley citizens. And once again, I found myself wanting to check out the local real estate office to see if a house is available for sale in this delightful community!
September 16, 2014
Each Shining Hour, the second Watervalley novel, is a brilliantly written book. Author, Jeff High, had me hooked from page one. With the discovery of the town's unsolved murder dating back to WWII and the growing relation between Luke and Christine I could not put the book down. As I read the final chapter I was sad to say goodbye to Watervalley for another year. I can't wait to see what the third book has in store.
October 29, 2014
I was sure there was no way Jeff could top his last book and I was completely wrong. I loved Each Shining Hour even more, Connie's sister, Christine's grandma and the lady that found out she was pregnant had me laughing so hard I was crying. His understanding of small towns warmed my heart and hopefully showed the city slickers out there that small town America has tons to offer. I can't wait for the next book!
January 10, 2015
If possible, I enjoyed this book as much or more than the first one; More Things in Heaven & Earth. Each Shining Hour picks up where the first book leaves off. Luke Bradford is still finding a place for himself in Watervalley. This story adds a little mystery & adds some new characters. A great read!!
January 10, 2016
It was an enjoyable read. High convinced me to fall in love with his characters and the town of Watervalley in the first of the series—which is much more than Karon could do in my mind with Mitford. While I think some of the plot is a bit far-fetched in this one, it was still something I found myself looking forward to coming back to after each time I had to put it down.
October 14, 2014
I really love this series by Jeff High. The character development is awesome and the characters will make you laugh out loud. The text makes you feel you are reading the facial expressions of the characters. It has true Southern charm and I cannot wait for the next book.
November 18, 2014
Loved it! I now have to go out and get the first book. I look forward to reading it again after I read the first one.
November 17, 2014
Not a review but a thank you to Jeff who is a wonderful storyteller and the sort of observer who we need in this life!
March 27, 2015
Looking forward to the third book!!
May 28, 2015
A must read
Intriguing well written pulls you in from the first page and keeps you turning the pages, this is one you will not want to miss
Intriguing well written pulls you in from the first page and keeps you turning the pages, this is one you will not want to miss
September 4, 2016
The Watervalley novels are fabulous. It's been a long time since I've had so much trouble putting a book down!
October 11, 2015
4.5 stars.
December 21, 2018
This is the second in a series and the second Jeff High book I have read. I would have liked to have given this four stars....unfortunately I found the romantic aspect just a bit cloying and unreal. Does every book have to have a drop dead gorgeous female for the lead male to fall in love with? I loved Jeff High's style of writing in the first book in the series. The books aren't really what is classic "Christian Fiction", but they are mostly clean with good morals and values with out being sticky sweet (aside from the a fore mentioned romance). I believe I will read the third book in the series...after my blood sugar level has returned to normal.
August 22, 2018
This book is okay, and probably everyone who reads it knows it. It has a fine story, with a mystery involved. What did I like about this book: it moves along quickly, and doesn't let the mysteries linger too long. I also cherished how the writer includes mini-cliffhangers at the end of chapters, reveling in the art of making the person flip to the next page. What did I not enjoy: the story is a bit hackneyed and stale. You kind of know where this is going. Oh, and I really haven't found typos in the book, which pleases me for a small publication like this.
Again, it's just okay.
Again, it's just okay.
March 14, 2025
A touching and heartwarming story about a doctor sent to a rural town in Tennessee and his dealing with an old cold case of a murder that intrigues him.
Romance is also blooming in this story with the doctor and a new woman. According to all the talk of the town she is a real catch.
I enjoyed this book, I feel like this is a comfort read for me as it is positive and the people are caring , I feel like I'm wearing a warm blanket and drinking hot cocoa when reading this book. I will be reading the rest of the series.
Romance is also blooming in this story with the doctor and a new woman. According to all the talk of the town she is a real catch.
I enjoyed this book, I feel like this is a comfort read for me as it is positive and the people are caring , I feel like I'm wearing a warm blanket and drinking hot cocoa when reading this book. I will be reading the rest of the series.
February 21, 2026
This one felt a bit more forced. Like high was trying to make the story longer. I couldn't stand the parts with Luke and Christine. Pretty much Hallmark sappy cheesy. I also had a harder time with Luke this go round as he was so wise with everything- life advice, medical, school, money. I also knew that they would find the diamonds somewhere and lousie would get them and save her house/family. It was a nice surprise the Oscar was actually sending the diamonds to switzerland to fund jews getting out of Nazi regime.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2025
Look I love a Hallmark/Great American Family as much as any other schmuck. But this type of trope in writing just didn’t land for me. I was hoping for more of a mystery I guess? Less the main character raving about how perfect the seemingly only other available woman in Watervalley is. Every other highlighted character there appeared to be in their “forties” “midforties” or middle aged in some way. Do I sound cynical? Maybe. Catch me at a different time I may have liked this better.
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