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The Secret to Hummingbird Cake

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“Why won’t you just tell me what’s in that cake?” I’d been trying to get Laine’s recipe for years. We all had.
 

When all else fails, turn to the divine taste of hummingbird cake.

In the South you always say “yes, ma’am” and “no, ma’am.” You know everybody’s business. Football is a lifestyle not a pastime. Food—especially dessert— is almost a religious experience. And you protect your friends as fiercely as you protect your family— even if the threat is something you cannot see.

In this spot-on Southern novel brimming with wit and authenticity, you’ll laugh alongside lifelong friends, navigate the sometimes rocky path of marriage, and roll through the outrageous curveballs that life sometimes throws . . . from devastating pain to absolute joy. And if you’re lucky, you just may discover the secret to hummingbird cake along the way.

Audiobook

First published February 9, 2016

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About the author

Celeste Fletcher McHale

3 books294 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,173 reviews
1 review2 followers
February 3, 2016
I am a first time user at Goodreads. I signed up so I could rate this book, The Secret to Hummingbird Cake. I read the other reviews to see exactly how it worked. After reading them, I wonder if we all read the same book or maybe I just wonder if we are all the Christians we claim to be.

This was a beautiful story of friendship and forgiveness. I think some may have missed that. This book tells a story of women so devoted to each other they would do anything for one another. I'm wondering how that could be misconstrued or deemed "preposterous." We live in a world that mocks friendship. It was a joy to read about such devotion between these women.

My husband who has passed away, was a pastor for 32 years. As his partner in ministry, I can assure you affairs happen and they sometimes happen within a congregation. Yes, they can be forgiven.

This beautiful story found it's way to me by accident. But, I don't really believe in accidents, so I had to write this review hoping Ms. McHale will see it. Thank you, Ms. McHale for reminding us forgiveness is the true Christianity, affairs don't always end marriages and true friends are forever.
Profile Image for Sarah.
958 reviews32 followers
January 30, 2016
The Secret to HummingBird Cake is the best book I have read in a long time, which says a lot for an avid reader and reviewer. First, I will disclaim this; many readers will be off put by this book because of the REAL life junk that happens in the book. Yes, I said REAL life, you know the thing you and I are living. This book isn't some sweet fairy tale, but it's sassy, painful, messy and downright lovable. The Secret to Humming Bird Cake will make you laugh so hard and cry tears you didn't know existed. Your husband will look at you, and question if he made you upset or if you ate something funky? Any book that makes you cry and laugh simultaneously is a book well worth reading more than once, which is what you will find here. The characters aren't perfect and in fact, have faults, just like readers, which makes this book a breath of fresh air.

The Secrets to HummingBird Cake has a Southern charm of a small town, but don't mistake that for the beautiful friendships these three women have. Their friendship is a once in a life time and God Bless their hearts, we'd be lucky to have true friendship like these three women. They can call each other about their mistakes, but pull them by the boot straps to carry them through the mud. And if you give this book a bad review because you're gawking at three words used in this book, look behind you, you have one too, move on. Life isn't perfect, I still love Jesus, and no, I'm not the condoning language, but you've missed the point of the book if you're off put three-word choices. This book isn't about that. Chances are, you're probably offended by the C- word, but those are just my thoughts. This book hit close to home as so many of friends have children battling ALL and EWIGS Sarcoma. In my opinion, The Secrets to HummingBird Cake touches on the things that matter most to me; Marriage, friendship, faith, giving in the unseen, Cancer and love. When the final page has been turned, you will be thinking about this book and wishing you had friends like Laine, Ella Rae & Carri. I want to see this book made into a film, and I wish Ms. McHale the very best in her writing. You gained me as a reader for life.
Profile Image for Karen.
2,630 reviews1,294 followers
July 19, 2023
I read this in 2017. I am now bringing this sweet little book and this review to Goodreads.

This is a fun read about friendship, family, forgiveness and letting go.

This truly spins a loving tale about enduring female friendships in a small town in the Deep South without engaging in stereotypes or sentimentality. It truly is a compelling debut novel.

It rings fresh and true. And that is what makes it so delicious.

I found this on our travels when we were RVing.

One of the things I loved about it were the recipes, especially waiting to find out…what is hummingbird cake, and how do you make it? And what is the secret ingredient to making it?

Do you know?

It is here. In this book.

This is a gentle book. Well worth reader’s time.
Profile Image for Sandysbookaday (taking a step back for a while).
2,626 reviews2,472 followers
September 30, 2025
EXCERPT: 'Do you ever get altitude sickness from the moral high ground, Laine? What's the view like from up there? 'Cause we can't all be saints, you know.'
I was furious with Laine. She had seen me fret, worry and agonize over my husband for the past year. At some point all that emotion finally turned into defiance. That shouldn't be difficult for anyone to understand. Especially a best friend. She should want me to be happy, shouldn't she? Isn't that the job description for a best friend - hide the bodies and encourage the bliss?
Our other best friend and partner in crime, Ella Rae Weeks, didn't care what I did, what I said, or who I said it to. She wanted me to be happy. Period. The End.
Laine, on the other hand, wanted us to get baptized once a week, run a soup kitchen, volunteer at the local day care, and neuter dogs on the kitchen table in our spare time.


ABOUT 'THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE': “Why won’t you just tell me what’s in that cake?” I’d been trying to get Laine’s recipe for years. We all had.

When all else fails, turn to the divine taste of hummingbird cake.

In the South you always say “yes, ma’am” and “no, ma’am.” You know everybody’s business. Football is a lifestyle not a pastime. Food—especially dessert— is almost a religious experience. And you protect your friends as fiercely as you protect your family— even if the threat is something you cannot see.

In this spot-on Southern novel brimming with wit and authenticity, you’ll laugh alongside lifelong friends, navigate the sometimes rocky path of marriage, and roll through the outrageous curveballs that life sometimes throws . . . from devastating pain to absolute joy. And if you’re lucky, you just may discover the secret to hummingbird cake along the way.

MY THOUGHTS: Absolutely delightful and full of Southern wit and charm.

The beginning of this book almost put me off reading it. I didn't like Carrigan and didn't like what she was doing. But thankfully this was brief, and I was soon enmeshed in the antics of these three women as they navigate the tricky waters of life and marriage.

The Secret to Hummingbird cake is one of those gentle books where, on the surface, it seems very little is happening. But remember, still waters run deep. Below the surface there is a maelstrom of emotions as trouble looms large in Carrigan's marriage, and one of her friends receives the worst possible news.

I loved these three women and the bond they have. I loved their spirited arguments and the way any angry or harsh words can be forgotten in a heartbeat. I loved their sense of fun and how they cared for one another. I wanted to step right into their world. And I did thanks to the wonderful writing of Celeste Fletcher McHale.

I reveled in this story of friendship and forgiveness. It is both heartwarming and heartrending. I'm glad I have another book by this same author already lined up to read. I have the feeling McHale is going to be on my firm favorites list.

And the secret to Hummingbird cake? I already knew it, but it was nice to have it confirmed. I just wish Laine's recipe had been included anyway.

So, if you're reading this review and you have a great Hummingbird Cake recipe, I'd just love if you shared it.

I listened to the audiobook of The Secret to Hummingbird Cake written by Celest fletcher McHale and beautifully narrated by Nan Kelley.

⭐⭐⭐⭐.3

#TheSecrettoHummingbirdCake #NetGalley

MEET THE AUTHOR: CELESTE FLETCHER MCHALE lives on her family farm in Central Louisiana where she enjoys raising a variety of animals. Her hobbies include writing, football, baseball, and spending much time with her grandchildren. (Source: freshfiction.com)

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio via NetGalley for providing an audiobook of The Secret to Hummingbird Cake written by Celeste Fletcher McHale and narrated by Nan Kelley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Profile Image for Melissa (Semi Hiatus Until After the Holidays).
5,149 reviews3,114 followers
June 6, 2019
The beginning of McHale’s novel is a bit slow, but it gains momentum quickly. The book is filled with love, friendship and learning to hold on even when life is hard; but it is also about letting go. Thick with Southern charm, readers will warm to the characters and wish they were friends with these wonderful women. A beautiful story to savor.
Since they were young girls, Carrigan, Ella Rae and Laine have been the best of friends. Now that they are adults, they lean on each other even more, because life just keeps getting more complicated. Carrigan isn’t sure what is going on with her marriage, and the other two women are trying to keep her from making irreversible mistakes. When they discover some devastating news, the three must band together in a way they never have before.
Profile Image for Regina.
1,139 reviews4,486 followers
February 12, 2017
I have a tendency to read internet listacles about books, look up mentioned titles on GR to see their ratings, then add them to my TBR list if they have 4+ stars. At some point this book showed up on such a listacle and voila, TBR. I don't remember what the list was, but I do know this was the first time I'd ever heard of hummingbird cake. I subsequently made one for my niece's birthday, and it was scrumptious. The book itself, not so much. First of all, I didn't realize this is a Christian novel. There's nothing inherently wrong with that; it just surprised me. The funny thing is that there are a lot of very unchristian elements (which seems to be a source of controversy according to other reviews). Ultimately there is a very sweet story of friendship at its heart, but I just wouldn't go out of my way to recommend it to anyone. The cake on the other hand... go get yourself a piece!
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,834 reviews1,437 followers
did-not-finish
May 20, 2016
It's a good thing I had some time in the bookstore to browse this one before making an impulse purchase. The characters are Southern, but very worldly...instantly it reads more like a romance novel than a women's fiction. One character is literally salivating over a man's abs in a tight tshirt and, later, in a wet tshirt. There is some cussing and a deal of crude slang.

But it was when a character responded to a handsome guy asking her to help him with something by saying "I'll do anything for you short of whips and chains" that I slapped the book back on the shelf. I do not like the bondage culture and was offended to find it mentioned in pleasant jest by a leading character in a Christian book.

Not my glass of sweet tea at all.
Profile Image for Laura.
623 reviews135 followers
April 9, 2017
Hmmm. I am very conflicted on how to rate this book. I am afraid I could write an extremely long and drawn out review with lists of reasons why I really enjoyed it, and why, I also feel like giving it an even lower rating.

First, let's start with the good. I really thought this was well written. The author did a wonderful job with describing the southern setting. I really felt like I was visiting the South while I read this. I was very engaged and the author played with my emotions throughout the entire story. I haven't laughed and cried so much, because of a book, in a long time. I enjoyed the theme, that life is precious and time passes by so quickly and we often need to take time to really appreciate loved ones in our lives. This was a beautiful story about three girls, who loved each other like sisters and had to face death, as one of the main characters becomes very sick.

Now, lets move on to what I didn't like and why I don't know how to properly rate the book. This is published by Thomas Nelson. This should, in my opinion, be a Christian book, yet I feel like it had nothing to it that I would say was truly Christian. Thomas Nelson is a company that states their purpose, core values and goals; this novel was a complete failure when compared to those very standards that they list. The majority of the time, that God was mentioned, was using the Lords name in vain. This was all through the book. It also had several other cuss words that I wont even take the time to mention. The three main characters never showed any real saving knowledge of Christ. I was given the impression that everyone goes to heaven if you are mostly good, sometimes people can even "save you a seat" in heaven. The characters never relied on God, nor did they ever really accept Him. It really is a shame, because the story had so many opportunities to allow the characters to repent, to trust God and to find a peace through his love, but it was never approached or even hinted at.

The three star rating is simply an average between rating this as a well written book and how it should have been Christian, yet it read like a secular book, in my opinion. You might ask, "Why does this bother her so much? She enjoyed it, didn't she?" Well, yes, I did. But I am also very disappointed. Its like this, let me give an analogy here...... ( hear me out) I LOVE ice-cream. Lets say I go to the store and buy some Vannila Bean ice-cream. When I get home, I pull back the lid, eager to scoop out my favorite flavor, only to discover, its not vannila, its chocolate. Now, that chocolate wasn't that bad, but its also not what I thought I was buying. ( Thomas Nelson did exactly that when they published this under their name. It was good, but not what I expected) I would have loved, The Secret to Hummingbird Cake, if the language was cleaned up and if the main character was transformed through Christ.
Profile Image for Beth.
805 reviews370 followers
February 10, 2017
Expectations can sometimes make or break a read. In this case, my expectations messed this book up for me. I can easily overlook profanity, some off-color language and even a sex scene or two, and I’m not offended by it or shocked to see it in general fiction. However, when I’m reading a book that is specific to the inspirational, Christian fiction market, there are certain expectations that I have. Little to no language and no crude slang (I can make some exceptions for historical context, but not many). I believe that a story can be raw, gritty and realistic without using profanity. I can only assume that this publisher is changing their style a bit, and I suppose, adjust my expectations accordingly. Readers that read from primarily the general market will most likely not find any sort of problem with the language because it is mild for the most part.

That out of the way, now to my thoughts on the book. There are a lot of good things here. I loved the setting – I’m from the South, and as a native, the author gets so many things right. The cadence of the dialogue, the small town stories, it all just flowed together to really ground the reader with a strong sense of place. I really enjoyed the authentic dialogue – it sounds Southern, without droppin’ all the G’s in the words and throwing in cliché sayings. There are several hilarious bits of dialogue, and can I just say, that I about squealed when Carrington said she felt like a can of busted biscuits. My sister-in-law say that all of the time, and others have just looked at us like we were crazy! Several things like that had me laughing, while some of the more serious bits did make me teary-eyed a few times.

I didn’t actually love the main character, since I didn’t really have a lot in common with her, but it was interesting to get a different perspective like Carrington’s. I was actually more like Laine – no, I’m definitely not as selfless as she is by any means, but I’m more the quiet, rule-following type (yep, I wave my “goody-goody” flag high. I only get sassy when necessary. Too much drama wears me out). The book is worth reading for Laine's character alone. I don’t want to give too much away about the plot, but she definitely carries the story for me.

Carrington has a significant, poignant character arc, and though much of the story is sad, I still felt hopeful by its end. I really enjoyed seeing her develop; in many ways, she still had some growing up to do, despite getting married at a very young age. I liked the portrayal of friendship, although I’m sorry, if any of y’all are doing something wrong, I’ll forgive you, and I’ll still love you, but I won’t be an enabler. ;)

Speaking of her marriage, I think it does portray that getting married young is not always a mistake – if it started out as a mistake, it doesn’t have to remain one, and the marriage can still work and thrive. The issue of infidelity (this is not a spoiler, it’s talked about in the opening chapters)…I’m not sure how I felt about it. Infidelity is appalling, obviously, but I’m not sure about how it was portrayed here. I do appreciate that the book addresses some tough issues, and that it is a much grittier story than the pretty cover implies. It’s not really chick-lit as I typically think it, which is a plus for me, and the focus on friendship, and how resilient it can be in times of trouble, is the highlight of the story.

Although it didn’t bust onto my favorites list, I did like it and enjoy it and look forward to the author’s upcoming works.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
896 reviews53 followers
November 5, 2021
I really loved this book. The friendship between the three women was wonderful especially because I have never really had that. Mistakes were made, lessons were learned, and growth occurred. People were not perfect but they loved each other anyway. The way Laine was supported was truly amazing. The forgiveness, the relationships, and the tough love were well written. Such a sad and sweet story. ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Terri  Wino.
800 reviews68 followers
May 30, 2016
When I first started reading this book, I have to say I wasn't really feeling it. You're kind of just dropped into a story already in progress and told by the narrator, Carrigan, that she's best friends with Ella Rae and Laine and it's almost expected that you should like them all.

I really didn't like Carrigan initially. But then she starts to talk about how she met her friends, some of their past antics, how she got together with her husband, and next thing you know, I'm wrapped up in these lives and laughing and crying along with them.

Some people may find this book melodramatic or not understand the friendship these women have, but I have been blessed to have a group of friends like the ladies in this story. People who do crazy things and create fun memories together. People who have been there for you through thick and thin. People who you can get mad at and they you, but the minute you need each other, you've got each other's back. People you can go days, weeks, or months without seeing because life gets in the way, but you know the minute you utter the words, "I need you," they're at your doorstep.

This book had me laughing out loud a few times because it reminded me of those friends of mine. It also had me in tears more than once.

I've seen some reviews bashing this book because, I guess, it's supposed to be a Christian book or from a Christian publisher or something like that and the reader didn't think it was a very Christian story. Well, I don't know about that, but I do know it was a story I thoroughly enjoyed reading. A story that made me even more grateful for the sister-friends in my life.
Profile Image for Darla.
4,825 reviews1,229 followers
October 29, 2019
Charming and heartwarming, but lacking in substance. What is the secret to hummingbird cake? You will find that out at the end of the book. What was missing was the gospel message.
Profile Image for Sunnie.
435 reviews39 followers
September 26, 2024
The Secret to Hummingbird Cake by Celeste Fletcher McHale is probably underrated. Reading it reminded me of the tone used in the classic, To Kill A Mockingbird. It tells the remarkable, yet ordinary story of three white young women living in the south. There were scenes that had me laughing uproarisly, and others that had me crying like a baby because my heart was pulled right out of my chest. It is the story of friendship, kindnesses, hostilities, and sometimes a gentle delicacy. I have a small personal library consisting of two types of books. At my age, I have begun culling all the books, but not before reading each and every one of them. Some are given away while the others are kept to provide a rich variety for my children when I pass. I actually have the book given to me as a young child, consisting of many chapters and well over 100 pages. I treasure this book. I will be sure to add The Secret to Hummingbird Cake to the "keep" selection, placing it next to my first book where I can treasure it also. Extremely highly recommended.
Profile Image for JoJo_theDodo.
192 reviews62 followers
October 14, 2025
The cover to this book is mainly what drew me in and I had to look up a recipe for Hummingbird cake. At times this story felt unrealistic and the main character was more irritating than any other qualities that might have been hinted at. I listened to the audiobook and was distracted many times by being able the hear the narrator loudly lick her lips and taking a deep breath in order to continue reading. Overall, it was a sweet story about friendship and personal growth. I can understand others negative comments about the some of the content contained and the label of "christian fiction" not completely fitting this book, really it's chick lit.

**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
3 reviews
January 26, 2016
I absolutely LOVED this book! Any book that makes me laugh, cry, and laugh through tears is a well written book. The story is sooooo real and believable; not everyone is beautiful, perfect, happy, tall and slim, but they learn from their mistakes and are true blue friends. I believe in women supporting women, and these women are true blue friends. They love each other enough to let each other make mistakes but they are there to help pick each other up. Lessons are learned. I love the Southern charm of this book, as well as, how the book wraps up. Having lived in a small town for many years, this author hits the nail on the head regarding small town life. I can be peeved at someone but that doesn't mean someone else can point out that persons flaw. LOL.. I truly believe this book is well worth reading, will benefit and touch many that read it and Lord have mercy, this should be a movie!
Profile Image for Susan.
1,494 reviews206 followers
November 20, 2025
Holy cow, THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE is one amazing story! It is also the first book I’ve read by Celeste Fletcher McHale. After you read this wonderful story, you will know exactly why. Ever since they were young girls, Carrigan, Ella Rae and Laine have been the best of friends. They lean on each other even more as life just keeps throwing them curve balls. Carrigan isn’t sure what is going on with her marriage, and the other two women are trying to keep her from making life changing mistakes. Carrigan feels such a connection to these women. The women give each other strength and lots of advice to help in dealing with the problems they are going through. I’m not going to say too much in this review because I want you all to be surprised!


THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE is exactly why I now know I will read every single one of Celeste Fletcher McHale’s books. She had me sad on one page and giggling out loud on the next. This story is all about friendship and relationships and the life lessons are heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to these women and all the secondary characters. So when you have three women who are always with each other, there is bound to be some drama right? The sisterhood they share is exactly what they all need at this time in their lives. THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE is a perfect story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down!

In THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE all of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with these women. I’m sure they could teach me a thing or two and I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Ms. McHale did that to me. She has me longing to find friends just like her characters. There is so much heart in Celeste’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. Celeste Fletcher McHale is the queen of writing heartfelt stories about women and family drama. If you are looking for a hear tugging, funny, feel good story, you can’t go wrong with THE SECRET TO HUMMINGBIRD CAKE!

PS: Ms. McHale, you owe me a box of tissues!!


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Tami.
31 reviews28 followers
March 22, 2016
I was expecting a sweet southern story, but was disappointed.

It would appear that Thomas Nelson is going for a new audience? I was unhappy with the swearing, glorified drinking and getting drunk, adultery that was considered a positive thing, and a character I couldn't empathize with. Just being honest. If the book is marketed as "Christian," I don't want curse words. I'm sorry if people disagree, but there are ways to be real about swear words without actually including them. The drinking and adultery are, yes, a part of real and can be handled in a Christian book, but I don't expect them to be handled like this book does.

The redeeming parts of this book are the story of the friendships. That part was beautiful. But I was too far frustrated by that point to appreciate it.

I guess I'm getting old and conservative. I don't need my Christian books to be a preachy and naiive, but I do need some expectations met so that the characters are human (and therefore fallible) but then don't call the characters Christians when their beliefs are not biblical.

My two cents' worth. I received this book in exchange for my honest review...
Profile Image for Cheryl Olson.
232 reviews151 followers
June 7, 2017
As many others have posted before me on this book as to questionable content, I completely understand their objections- there is a lot of "stuff" in this book that is surprising to see in a "Christian Fiction book". I'm not going to be running to my grandmother saying, "Please Granny read this." However, with that being said, I have to say that the authenticity in the writing is so good, the character's so real, and the struggles they face, very real as well. For those who have really wrestled with the "Why God, did you let this happen?" questions will completely relate to this story. I had tears streaming down my face several times as someone who has experienced real grief, as those scenes were so very touching and well written. The friendships of the 3 women- Carrigan, Laine and Ella-Rae were funny, poignant and very authentic. I did enjoy this book and this journey with the characters even as I wiped away my smudged mascara after finishing the book.

3.5 stars
Profile Image for Foxy Vixen.
316 reviews11 followers
November 13, 2021
I borrowed this from my friend Libby.
It takes place in Louisiana. It was a BOTW for our GR group Snag a Read For Free. If you ever have read any Carolyn Brown novels and liked them, you will love this one.
Grab plenty of Kleenex and clean panties, because you are going to need them from laughing and crying.
Definitely, one of the best books I have read this year!
Profile Image for Missy.
366 reviews115 followers
October 26, 2018
This book was very different than what the description tells you, and after reading all my friends DNF’s and 2-3 star reviews of this book, I think I am in the minority in saying I really enjoyed this book. I think I would definitely not classify this as Christian literature, sure there are plenty of references and one character is more Christian than the others, but I would say this is more women’s fiction just because God and the church are not the center of what this book is about.

That being said, this book made me sob! Maybe it is the tender-hearted person I am, the kind that tears up in EVERY Hallmark commercial during the holidays. But the last 200 pages, the waterworks was open all the way!

This is the story of three best friends, who are more like sisters than friends, Carrington, Laine, and Ella Rae. Carrington is head-strong, no nonsense, and probably the leader of the group. Laine has a Christian heart, volunteers, is a teacher, and helps others whenever she can. Ella Rae is outspoken, will tell you as it is, and will fight just about anyone who hurts Carrington or Laine’s feelings. They make quite the crew, but when it comes to times they are all they need. Carrington doesn’t always do things I would approve of and certainly “just because” and “if it is good for him, it is good for me” attitude does not get the result you really want in the end anyway. But when tragedy, and surprise, happen at the same time, they band together to make the best of a really bad situation.

When I started the book it was like starting in the middle of something and not knowing how it began, which I wasn’t too crazy about. But as the book went on I really enjoyed the story, where it was going, and how the three girls banded together to be each other’s rock, stand by each other, love each other, and learn that you can’t have control of everything, all the time -even if you think you should.

The story is of friendship, forgiveness, growing up, realizing you don’t always have control of everything, compassion, and sometimes asking for help is the best thing – and that is just in Carrington’s character. She was a young bride, didn’t go to college, and I think she had a tad bit of jealousy of Laine and Ella Rae because they did, which also made her a little on the immature side. But we also found that Carrington was also the foundation of their friendship, the one that held them all together. Laine was the brains and sense of the group, and Ella Rae was the protector. Each had their own place, which made it work so well.

I enjoyed this book, I didn't start out liking it, but it turned out to be a great book about sometimes life does not always turn out the way you expect, but you live with what is given, and you find joy and grace in what you have at that moment. That love is always the secret ingredient.
Profile Image for Elsa Carrion.
699 reviews110 followers
November 3, 2021
Title: The Secret to Hummingbird Cake
Author: Celeste Fletcher McHale
Book #105 -2021
Start/Finish: 10/1 - 10/2
Rating: 4 stars
Setting: Bon Dieu Falls Louisiana
Length: 304 pgs ; 22 chapters & Epilogue
Published: 2/2016
Stand Alone

Christian Romance not usually my read. However it wasn't bad. Took a few chapters to get into it. There was really nothing going on but character build in those first few. Not sure if I needed all that info. If the author would have told me that the character was selfish I would have believed it and imagined my own selfish character. Once I got past those few chapters the story started and it was very emotional at times.
Profile Image for Aurelia Mast-glick.
373 reviews11 followers
February 2, 2016
This is one of those books that I'm left shaking my head and nodding it both at the same time. I'm simply not sure what to make of it.

First off, I don't classify it as a real Christian book. Yes, the character who died seemed to have a faith in God, but it wasn't mentioned a lot. The main character spend most of the book ranting at God. And the language wasn't what I expected in a Christian book published by a Christian publishing company. So in that regard, I was a little disappointed. I was hoping for a bit more depth.

On the other hand, the depth of the friendship of these three women is a rare find. They did everything together, actually they did too much together in my mind. I have some really good friends, but there is no way they would accompany me to all of my prenatal visits and to the birth of my child. Sorry guys, no can do!! And there is no way I would go with them to theirs. Actually that whole idea is so preposterous it can make me laugh. But on the other hand, these three friends stuck it out through thick and thin and when one of them is diagnosed with cancer, the other two rally around and stuck with her all the way to the end.

So that is the reason for the mixed feelings here. It was a good read, but...

I do want to share a couple of quotes from the book that I did think were inspiring and just very good.

This one was said by Laine, the lady that died, at a classmate's funeral. "'I know this is sad,' she said, 'and I'm sad too, especially for his family. But keep hearing people say, "Isn't it tragic because he had his whole life in front of him." But what difference does that make? It's not how long you live; it's what you leave behind. Ricky was a great guy. Everybody loved him. That's an amazing way to be remembered.'"

And this also by Laine, "You are responsible for what you do. No matter what you go through, no matter what happens to you, no matter how much someone hurt you, the choices you make are ultimately your own." As you can tell, she was the mature one of the bunch.

Those two things struck a chord with me. What am I leaving behind?

This book was given my by Book Look Bloggers for the purpose of reading and writing a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Dominique.
378 reviews62 followers
April 7, 2016
1.5 to 2 stars

So I'm going to hide my review because their will be spoilers in it.
But I will say I wouldn't recommend this book to any of my fellow teenagers.




I received a free book from Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Fiction Guild in return for a honest review.
Profile Image for Sue .
2,036 reviews124 followers
February 10, 2016
This novel is about friendship - the kind of friendship between women that anyone is lucky to find. Carri, Laine and Ella Rae have been friends since elementary school and now in their 30s they are faced with all kinds of adult problems. They live in a small town in the South where every knows all about what is going on in everyone else's life and there are all sorts of eccentric characters. The novel centers around their friendship - first whether or not Carri's husband is having an affair and then over the health of one of the members of the group. I loved all three of the main characters - I live in the South and I know people just like them. I laughed with them and I cried with them and I hated to see the book end. This is a fantastic book and I will definitely be on the lookout for future books from this author. (This book was provided by NetGalley for an unbiased review)
Profile Image for Rachel McMillan.
Author 26 books1,170 followers
December 7, 2015
Quick Take: if you like Fannie Flagg, Billie Letts or The Divine Sisters of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, you will enjoy this winsome Southern novel which paints with talented aplomb a pitch-perfect women's sphere. The voice is refreshing, the characters buoyant and believable: why, you feel like you will look up from the pages and see them there across from you!
Profile Image for Letty.
739 reviews
August 8, 2016
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I must say that this is a beautiful, beautiful story of the strong bond and friendship of three women: Carrigan, Ella Rae and Laine. Loved this book and loved the characters. It made me laugh quite a bit and made me teary as well. So touching and sweet. I highly recommend this one!!
Profile Image for Connie Hess.
577 reviews4 followers
December 3, 2017
What a waste of money!
I tried and tried and made it to page 126 and couldn't stand it anymore.
What a sappy, juvenile, sophomoric novel.
Every chapter had us walking with her down memory lane for childhood recollections and then fast forward to current time, neither of which were remotely interesting!
Profile Image for Julie Durnell.
1,156 reviews135 followers
June 14, 2016
It was not the best southern story of friendship I've ever read, but good enough for me to finish. The three friends were well written but just so immature for 30 year olds.
Profile Image for Diane Coto.
388 reviews10 followers
February 9, 2016
Cell Phone Romeo. That’s what Carrigan (Carri) calls the man she has been seeing. Assuming that her husband was having an affair, she was just trying to even the scales. But she’s not happy at this game, and Romeo is not the sharpest knife in the drawer. She longs for what she and her husband, Jack, once had. She doesn’t know where it went or why. She thought their romance would last forever. She’s sure she will love him for the rest of her life.

Thank God for close friends. Laine and Ella Rae are her ‘forever’ friends. They have known each other since they were children. They share their deepest, darkest secrets with each other. Laine is the ‘goody’ of the bunch seemingly wanting to bring both Callie and Ella Rae down to earth. While they are both more on the vindictive side, Laine prefers to see the good in everyone. She is as sure that Jack is not having an affair as Carri seems to believe he is. But, Laine has a frightening secret of her own. Soon all three will share in her pain.

A women’s fiction set in the deep south of Louisiana, this is humorous in parts and heartbreaking in parts. Similar to books written by Fannie Flagg, the novel touches on heartbreak, love, friendship, and faith … a lot of faith. I loved the character’s personalities. They were friends, but not clones. They all had distinct personalities. They may argue and disagree, but they remained close no matter what. They did tend to agree on Bethany who seemed to corner Jack a little too much. Carri narrates, “Did this chick eat at all? Probably all the time. Another reason to be annoyed at her. I wanted to drag her out to the parking lot and beat the crap out of her, but she’d probably even bleed cute.” Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
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