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The Tomorrow Tree
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26Coming home to small-town Texas means facing the past and embracing the future in this touching novel about the family we choose by New York Times bestselling author Carolyn Brown.
After thirteen years away, Tina O’Grady returns to her hometown of Benson, Texas, drawn to the old oak tree in the park. She and her childhood friends, Walker and Gracie, called it the Tomorrow Tree and shared their dreams beneath its branches. But Tina, still reeling from past betrayals, has no plans to stay.
Mae and Cleo aren’t about to let her leave. The elderly ladies who practically raised Tina offer her a room in their boardinghouse—where she discovers Walker and Gracie are also staying. Suddenly, this small town feels more like home than ever. Especially when Tina takes a job at Walker’s feedstore, and their friendship rekindles into something deeper than either dared to hope.
Through Mae and Cleo’s fierce maternal love and a second chance with Walker, Tina must confront the wounds that drove her away. Can she finally trust in the family she’s always had—and the love that’s been waiting beneath the Tomorrow Tree?
After thirteen years away, Tina O’Grady returns to her hometown of Benson, Texas, drawn to the old oak tree in the park. She and her childhood friends, Walker and Gracie, called it the Tomorrow Tree and shared their dreams beneath its branches. But Tina, still reeling from past betrayals, has no plans to stay.
Mae and Cleo aren’t about to let her leave. The elderly ladies who practically raised Tina offer her a room in their boardinghouse—where she discovers Walker and Gracie are also staying. Suddenly, this small town feels more like home than ever. Especially when Tina takes a job at Walker’s feedstore, and their friendship rekindles into something deeper than either dared to hope.
Through Mae and Cleo’s fierce maternal love and a second chance with Walker, Tina must confront the wounds that drove her away. Can she finally trust in the family she’s always had—and the love that’s been waiting beneath the Tomorrow Tree?
283 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 1, 2026
About the author
Carolyn Brown
190 books4,181 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 5, 2026
Sweet story about biological and other kinds of families
Tina is back in Benson, Texas, before she plans to go visit her parents and het her life figured out. She goes to see the Tomorrow Tree that was across the road from where she was watched over by Cleo and Mae. It was only supposed to be for a moment, but then Cleo came out and brought her back to the house. She finds that her best friends from before, Gracie and Walker, live there and moves in herself. But things are not as they used to be. Gracie is dating someone her parents would not approve of, and now Tina is working with Walker and feeling more than friendship! Can you ever go home again? Read this sweet story to find out.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is hopeful with a character centered storyline that has some kisses and suggestions but no detailed steamy scenes. The characters are vibrant and endearing. This is a super story and classic Carolyn Brown! I loved it! The small town drama really makes it even better with some sweet moments and some that make you laugh out loud! Enjoy!
Tina is back in Benson, Texas, before she plans to go visit her parents and het her life figured out. She goes to see the Tomorrow Tree that was across the road from where she was watched over by Cleo and Mae. It was only supposed to be for a moment, but then Cleo came out and brought her back to the house. She finds that her best friends from before, Gracie and Walker, live there and moves in herself. But things are not as they used to be. Gracie is dating someone her parents would not approve of, and now Tina is working with Walker and feeling more than friendship! Can you ever go home again? Read this sweet story to find out.
The pace is engrossing and the tone is hopeful with a character centered storyline that has some kisses and suggestions but no detailed steamy scenes. The characters are vibrant and endearing. This is a super story and classic Carolyn Brown! I loved it! The small town drama really makes it even better with some sweet moments and some that make you laugh out loud! Enjoy!
June 5, 2026
By now you know that I love reading Carolyn Brown books! They are filled with Southern charm and sass, cowboys, strong-willed women sweet storylines, and always, always, always have a "happily ever after".
Gracie, Tina, and Walker (all 30-somethings) were are "raised" by the same two nannies, Cleo and Mae, in the little town of Benson, Texas, which is filled with gossip and trouble-making . All three "kids" went off to college and their separate ways for awhile. Tina went "radio silent" on her two best friends as well as Cleo and Max, for ten years. The Tomorrow Tree is the story of their sweet reunion and some even sweeter story lines, along with a lot of sass and interference from a few "characters" who will make you laugh and shake your head at their brassiness and boldness.
If you need a light, quick, Southern sass filled summer read, pick up The Tomorrow Tree or any of Carolyn Brown's books - you won't be disappointed!
Gracie, Tina, and Walker (all 30-somethings) were are "raised" by the same two nannies, Cleo and Mae, in the little town of Benson, Texas, which is filled with gossip and trouble-making . All three "kids" went off to college and their separate ways for awhile. Tina went "radio silent" on her two best friends as well as Cleo and Max, for ten years. The Tomorrow Tree is the story of their sweet reunion and some even sweeter story lines, along with a lot of sass and interference from a few "characters" who will make you laugh and shake your head at their brassiness and boldness.
If you need a light, quick, Southern sass filled summer read, pick up The Tomorrow Tree or any of Carolyn Brown's books - you won't be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The tomorrow tree.
By carolyn brown.
The tomorrow tree 🌳
A unforgettable story about the 3 kids. Growing up in a family that's not necessarily blood, but family by choice.
Sometimes that's the best family of all.
Favorite part of the book, many parts, but one in particular, iris and the rooster Next door. [ Mudpuddle ]What a hoot.
History, memories love and the future.
Absolutely phenomenal story.
Carolyn Brown writes stories that touch your heart every single time.
I've even got my husband reading this author's work. She's a wonderful author.
Loved this story.
By carolyn brown.
The tomorrow tree 🌳
A unforgettable story about the 3 kids. Growing up in a family that's not necessarily blood, but family by choice.
Sometimes that's the best family of all.
Favorite part of the book, many parts, but one in particular, iris and the rooster Next door. [ Mudpuddle ]What a hoot.
History, memories love and the future.
Absolutely phenomenal story.
Carolyn Brown writes stories that touch your heart every single time.
I've even got my husband reading this author's work. She's a wonderful author.
Loved this story.
May 28, 2026
A delightful tale of love and forgiveness
Ms. Brown has created a tale of 3 youngsters born into broken families who bonded with each other and the caregivers hired to babysit them. The love Cleo and Mae gave them helped them get past their family issues for the most part, but one of them was so badly hurt, she left for years, only to come back to find her dreams come true.
She brings humor, romance, wit and a few swipes at judgmental fools to the tale and creates a wonderful experience.
I received an ARC gratis, much to my delight and offer my opinion in the same
Ms. Brown has created a tale of 3 youngsters born into broken families who bonded with each other and the caregivers hired to babysit them. The love Cleo and Mae gave them helped them get past their family issues for the most part, but one of them was so badly hurt, she left for years, only to come back to find her dreams come true.
She brings humor, romance, wit and a few swipes at judgmental fools to the tale and creates a wonderful experience.
I received an ARC gratis, much to my delight and offer my opinion in the same
June 3, 2026
I Choose You
Wow, visiting Benson Texas now that was a pleasant experience 😊‼️Meanwhile, ”The Tomorrow Tree” was a culmination of forgiveness, friendships, family, love with a side order of shenanigans 🤦🏾♀️🤭. Nevertheless, we can’t choose our relatives. However, we have autonomy to select our family…& I choose you😉🤩😍👀‼️
Wow, visiting Benson Texas now that was a pleasant experience 😊‼️Meanwhile, ”The Tomorrow Tree” was a culmination of forgiveness, friendships, family, love with a side order of shenanigans 🤦🏾♀️🤭. Nevertheless, we can’t choose our relatives. However, we have autonomy to select our family…& I choose you😉🤩😍👀‼️
June 4, 2026
Another Wonderful Novel by Caroline Brown
Wonderful characters and a lovely story of friendship, love, and healing aided by humor and hijinks made this book an entertaining read. My favorite quip: "She who stirs the shit pile has to lick the spoon." Favorite characters: Mae and Ora.
Wonderful characters and a lovely story of friendship, love, and healing aided by humor and hijinks made this book an entertaining read. My favorite quip: "She who stirs the shit pile has to lick the spoon." Favorite characters: Mae and Ora.
June 4, 2026
Didn’t want it to end
I love this author! Tina, Gracie and Walker are awesome. The love that they have for one another and the people around them is inspiring. Every one should have a Tomorrow Tree even if it’s just in their hearts.
I love this author! Tina, Gracie and Walker are awesome. The love that they have for one another and the people around them is inspiring. Every one should have a Tomorrow Tree even if it’s just in their hearts.
Review of advance copy
I typically read a book all of the way through even if I don’t particularly care for the storyline.
However, the characters in this book and the circumstances of their childhood and eventual reunion as adults are too saccharine and thus unbelievable.
However, the characters in this book and the circumstances of their childhood and eventual reunion as adults are too saccharine and thus unbelievable.
June 5, 2026
This is a feel good book. I read it in a day because I had to know what's next.
Carolyn Brown's books are so hopeful and uplifting. I always enjoy her picture of living in small town Texas and Oklahoma. Keep writing, Lady!
Carolyn Brown's books are so hopeful and uplifting. I always enjoy her picture of living in small town Texas and Oklahoma. Keep writing, Lady!
Review of advance copy
This read like it was written for a middle school class assignment. SO MUCH EXPOSITION! And the story, what I read of it before I stopped so I didn't throw my Kindle across the room, was so treacly and trite.
Maybe I'm just not the audience for this tripe.
Maybe I'm just not the audience for this tripe.
Want to Read
June 2, 2026(E) I got this for free from Amazon First Reads in June 2026.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2026
Wonderful as always!
She did it again. A wonderful story that will keep you wanting to read more. Now to wait for the next book.
She did it again. A wonderful story that will keep you wanting to read more. Now to wait for the next book.
June 3, 2026
wonderful as always
Another wonderful look at the bright side of life and all its pitfalls. Keep sharing with us please. Another book soon, I hope.
Another wonderful look at the bright side of life and all its pitfalls. Keep sharing with us please. Another book soon, I hope.
Review of advance copy
A start over new beginnings second chance in small town Benson Texas where Tina has always felt at home with her best friends Gracie and Walker.
June 3, 2026
What is a family....
Loved the story. Can imagine it myself. Family can change what you think. Some people love you unconditionally. They may or not be family.
Loved the story. Can imagine it myself. Family can change what you think. Some people love you unconditionally. They may or not be family.
June 5, 2026
A sweet story that is predictable but also has many laughable stories especially with neighbor Iris.
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June 5, 202606/05/2026
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February 12, 2026review text for 3961
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews