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Honey Creek #1
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Café
From Jodi Thomas, New York Times bestselling author of Mornings on Main and Indigo Lake, comes this heartwarming new novel set in
Honey Creek, Texas--a small town where family bonds and legends run deep, and friendship and love are always close at hand . . .
Piper Jane Mckenzie, mayor of Honey Creek, won't let a major scandal rip her quirky hometown apart, or jeopardize her dream of one day running for higher office. So she's willing to welcome undercover detective Colby McBride, hired to help solve the mystery behind her wannabe fiance's disappearance. Colby's cover? That he is an old boyfriend now begging Piper for a second chance--always when there are plenty of townsfolk around to witness his shenanigans.
Piper hardly knows whether to laugh or cry, especially when she finds herself drawn to the handsome rascal. He's not the only newcomer she has to deal with. There's a new interim preacher in town, Sam Cassidy. Drifting from one assignment to another since his one love died, Sam isn't sure he's the right fit for Honey Creek. But as Piper knows, this is a place chock-full of surprises. And if she can keep her town--and her heart--from going completely off the rails, there may be a sweet, unexpected future in store. . . .
Piper Jane Mckenzie, mayor of Honey Creek, won't let a major scandal rip her quirky hometown apart, or jeopardize her dream of one day running for higher office. So she's willing to welcome undercover detective Colby McBride, hired to help solve the mystery behind her wannabe fiance's disappearance. Colby's cover? That he is an old boyfriend now begging Piper for a second chance--always when there are plenty of townsfolk around to witness his shenanigans.
Piper hardly knows whether to laugh or cry, especially when she finds herself drawn to the handsome rascal. He's not the only newcomer she has to deal with. There's a new interim preacher in town, Sam Cassidy. Drifting from one assignment to another since his one love died, Sam isn't sure he's the right fit for Honey Creek. But as Piper knows, this is a place chock-full of surprises. And if she can keep her town--and her heart--from going completely off the rails, there may be a sweet, unexpected future in store. . . .
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2020
1825 people are currently reading
10575 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Thomas
130 books2,505 followersI'm a New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author, wife, mother, in-law, grandmother, sister, friend, and owner of one fat cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 552 reviews
May 25, 2020
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Café by Jodi Thomas is a sweet and heartfelt romance with a touch of mystery and a strong sense of community. Set in the charming small town of Honey Creek, Texas, the story follows the perspectives of four characters: Piper Mackenzie, the town's mayor who has found herself in the middle of a media storm due to the disappearance of her wannabe fiancé, Boone Buchanan, Colby McBride, a handsome State Trooper who has been hired by Piper's brothers to discreetly investigate Boone's disappearance, Sam Cassidy, the temporary pastor at the local church, and Pecos Smith, an ambitious high school senior.
I enjoyed this book immensely. The writing style was fun, easy, and engaging. I thought the author did a wonderful job of describing the town, and I could easily picture it. The characters were realistic and lovable. They pulled you into their lives from the very beginning and kept you hooked until the last page. I enjoyed getting to know everyone and thought the ending was really sweet and hopeful. I eagerly await the second book and hope to see more of Pecos and his new family.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book immensely. The writing style was fun, easy, and engaging. I thought the author did a wonderful job of describing the town, and I could easily picture it. The characters were realistic and lovable. They pulled you into their lives from the very beginning and kept you hooked until the last page. I enjoyed getting to know everyone and thought the ending was really sweet and hopeful. I eagerly await the second book and hope to see more of Pecos and his new family.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2020
Loved this heart felt romance. The three love stories were great. A high school nerdy boy and the most beautiful girl, the trooper and the mayor, and the bossy woman with the preacher, fireman, army man. (Wow, that’s a lot of man right there)
And a mystery. What more could you want.
“ I won this book on Goodreads Giveaways. Thank you Goodreads.”
And a mystery. What more could you want.
“ I won this book on Goodreads Giveaways. Thank you Goodreads.”
May 24, 2021
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Honey Creek, TX! This was a really nice break of a book to read in between my other books. It was just super predictable, no real mystery or turn page moments. It was a really nice cozy mystery minus knitting, food or animals. 😂
I liked the characters, I thought Pecos was going to be a killer—that’s just me being overly skeptic. Him and Kerrie didn’t sit right with me.
Piper and her man were so cute together. I loved their enemies to lovers/I’m getting paid to protect you vibes.
Sam & his woman were so cute. It made you think there’s hope for people who feel like all love is lost.
The ending is what made me keep it at a solid three ⭐️. Everything just synched especially in the time of chaos all the characters were intertwined perfectly.
Honey Creek, TX! This was a really nice break of a book to read in between my other books. It was just super predictable, no real mystery or turn page moments. It was a really nice cozy mystery minus knitting, food or animals. 😂
I liked the characters, I thought Pecos was going to be a killer—that’s just me being overly skeptic. Him and Kerrie didn’t sit right with me.
Piper and her man were so cute together. I loved their enemies to lovers/I’m getting paid to protect you vibes.
Sam & his woman were so cute. It made you think there’s hope for people who feel like all love is lost.
The ending is what made me keep it at a solid three ⭐️. Everything just synched especially in the time of chaos all the characters were intertwined perfectly.
April 16, 2021
Piper Jane Mackenzie, the mayor of the idyllic small town of Honey Creek, Texas is in danger and her brother sends detective Hottie . . . er . . . Colby McBride to uncover the truth. Piper's pretend fiance has disappeared under mysterious circumstances and she's been receiving threatening letters.
The town has its secrets, but it also has some wonderful people and I loved them all. There were just so many characters to root for in this novel. It tugged at all the right emotions. It was corny in a good way.
I will definitely reach for more of this series when I want something light-hearted and sweet. I don't usually love romance as a genre and this included a lot of it, but the mystery and the beautiful visuals of the great town made up for it. The characters always make or break the story for me and the author did a wonderful job of bringing them to life.
The town has its secrets, but it also has some wonderful people and I loved them all. There were just so many characters to root for in this novel. It tugged at all the right emotions. It was corny in a good way.
I will definitely reach for more of this series when I want something light-hearted and sweet. I don't usually love romance as a genre and this included a lot of it, but the mystery and the beautiful visuals of the great town made up for it. The characters always make or break the story for me and the author did a wonderful job of bringing them to life.
May 27, 2020
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe is a fun, lighthearted read with quirky characters in typical small town fashion. Honey Creek townspeople love their mayor, Piper Mckenzie, who comes from a family of politicians and law enforcement officers. Her granddad was also mayor, her dad is a senator, and two brothers are Texas Rangers. Colby McBride is a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper in town asked by one of the brothers to keep the mayor safe when her so called fiance disappears. He is incognito and playing the part of a lovesick former acquaintance. Told from four different viewpoints, this story takes place over the course of several days. We hear the action from Piper, Colby, interim minister, Sam Cassidy, and new high school graduate, Pecos Smith. Sam is like Colby in that he is not who he professes to be. He has a divinity degree but has never preached, having been in the Army and currently is a forest firefighter in Colorado. Each has a unique story.
This is an entertaining story with a great supporting cast of characters, some lovable, some not so much, but all colorful and interesting. With romance and a mystery to solve, this is a winner and a great story to watch develop and unravel.
I received a complimentary ARC from Zebra and Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
This is an entertaining story with a great supporting cast of characters, some lovable, some not so much, but all colorful and interesting. With romance and a mystery to solve, this is a winner and a great story to watch develop and unravel.
I received a complimentary ARC from Zebra and Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
May 19, 2020
I am never disappointed when I read one of Jodi's books. They take me on a journey through a small Texas town where the pace is usually a little slower and the folks are friendly. But don't be fooled, they have their issues too, but in true Texas form, they work through those issues together.
This book felt a little different than Jodi's other books. I think it is because I felt like there was a little bit of a mystery to solve that paired nicely with the romance. Piper, or PJ as a certain State Trooper was wont to call her, is stuck in the middle of a media storm due to the disappearance of Boone Buchanan, a friend who claimed they were engaged. As the mayor of a small town, this doesn't bode well for her since many wonder if she had something to do with the events surrounding his disappearance. Enter Colby McBride, the sexy State Trooper doing a favor for a friend, also known as Piper's brother. Colby has a way about him that puts the citizens of Honey Creek at ease and he even charms Piper's family, especially the women, to get them on his side. It takes a bit longer with Piper.
This assignment had more layers than the Palo Duro Canyon.
While the story's primary focus is Piper and Colby, there are several other storylines occurring that bring humor and more romance to the book. Sam arrives to fill a spot at the local church and wonders if being a preacher is his calling. Stella and Anna work at the church in different roles and have their own issues to deal with with the help of Sam. Sometimes you just need a fresh pair of eyes on the situation.
I think the most endearing character was Pecos. He is a graduating senior at the local school and his home life hasn't been that great. His parents just consider him a worker and not their child which is a shame because Pecos has dreams that he should follow. His life turns upside down when he meets up with a classmate, Kerrie, and they form a friendship. There are some surprises in store for Pecos, but he rolls with the punches with the help of Mr. Winston, a lonely older citizen of the town. I actually think that Pecos and Mr. Winston save each other in the end and it is definitely a heartfelt moment (or two) as situations unfolded for these two.
I enjoyed the descriptive text about the town and especially the preacher's new quarters. I'm not sure who decorated the cottage but it is not what a single bachelor would want to see when they wake up each day. You'll have to read the book to discover how it was decorated, I think you will get a chuckle out of it much as I did.
I loved this book and did not want the story to end. There were so many unanswered questions, ok maybe not that many but a few. The upside is that this is going to be a series and I hope that all of these characters make guest appearances in future books.
We give this book 5 paws up and can't wait for book two, which I was lucky enough to read the first couple of chapters at the end of this book.
This book felt a little different than Jodi's other books. I think it is because I felt like there was a little bit of a mystery to solve that paired nicely with the romance. Piper, or PJ as a certain State Trooper was wont to call her, is stuck in the middle of a media storm due to the disappearance of Boone Buchanan, a friend who claimed they were engaged. As the mayor of a small town, this doesn't bode well for her since many wonder if she had something to do with the events surrounding his disappearance. Enter Colby McBride, the sexy State Trooper doing a favor for a friend, also known as Piper's brother. Colby has a way about him that puts the citizens of Honey Creek at ease and he even charms Piper's family, especially the women, to get them on his side. It takes a bit longer with Piper.
This assignment had more layers than the Palo Duro Canyon.
While the story's primary focus is Piper and Colby, there are several other storylines occurring that bring humor and more romance to the book. Sam arrives to fill a spot at the local church and wonders if being a preacher is his calling. Stella and Anna work at the church in different roles and have their own issues to deal with with the help of Sam. Sometimes you just need a fresh pair of eyes on the situation.
I think the most endearing character was Pecos. He is a graduating senior at the local school and his home life hasn't been that great. His parents just consider him a worker and not their child which is a shame because Pecos has dreams that he should follow. His life turns upside down when he meets up with a classmate, Kerrie, and they form a friendship. There are some surprises in store for Pecos, but he rolls with the punches with the help of Mr. Winston, a lonely older citizen of the town. I actually think that Pecos and Mr. Winston save each other in the end and it is definitely a heartfelt moment (or two) as situations unfolded for these two.
I enjoyed the descriptive text about the town and especially the preacher's new quarters. I'm not sure who decorated the cottage but it is not what a single bachelor would want to see when they wake up each day. You'll have to read the book to discover how it was decorated, I think you will get a chuckle out of it much as I did.
I loved this book and did not want the story to end. There were so many unanswered questions, ok maybe not that many but a few. The upside is that this is going to be a series and I hope that all of these characters make guest appearances in future books.
We give this book 5 paws up and can't wait for book two, which I was lucky enough to read the first couple of chapters at the end of this book.
April 2, 2020
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe by Jodi Thomas was light romance with a touch of mystery that I devoured in one afternoon. Ms. Thomas is a "new to me" author but this book has convinced me to read more of her books. I confess that I am not a big romance reader but a mystery will always attract my attention.
I loved the setting of Honey Creek, TX. The town is full of lovable and quirky characters. Ms. Thomas has included the stories of four characters in this book, Piper Jane McKenzie, Colby McBride, Sam Cassidy and Pecos Smith. Each character tells their own story as their lives unfold in this small town. The secondary characters were an integral part of the story, too. I adored Mr. Winston who is a town fixture but yet little is known about him in the town. The plot is smooth, the characters become well developed as the story progresses, the mystery is easily resolved and each of the characters arrive at their own "happily ever after".
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Zebra/Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
I loved the setting of Honey Creek, TX. The town is full of lovable and quirky characters. Ms. Thomas has included the stories of four characters in this book, Piper Jane McKenzie, Colby McBride, Sam Cassidy and Pecos Smith. Each character tells their own story as their lives unfold in this small town. The secondary characters were an integral part of the story, too. I adored Mr. Winston who is a town fixture but yet little is known about him in the town. The plot is smooth, the characters become well developed as the story progresses, the mystery is easily resolved and each of the characters arrive at their own "happily ever after".
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Zebra/Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
March 10, 2021
This was my first book by Thomas but not my last. I love the small town, I loved the quirky characters, I loved the romances and the mystery. This was a fun fast read. I can't wait for book number two in the Honey Creek series.
4 stars and I recommend this fast, fun read.
4 stars and I recommend this fast, fun read.
June 19, 2020
"Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe" by Jodi Thomas
This is my first book by Jodi Thomas and I really loved it. It had everything I loved in a cozy read, a small town and an amazing cast of characters I really enjoyed reading about. There is a little bit of romance, and a little bit of mystery too, with plots and sub plots that drew my attention and added to the excitement of the read. I could not stop reading this book and devoured it in one lovely afternoon. I highly recommend this book and look forward to continuing the story with a possible start of a lovely series.
This is my first book by Jodi Thomas and I really loved it. It had everything I loved in a cozy read, a small town and an amazing cast of characters I really enjoyed reading about. There is a little bit of romance, and a little bit of mystery too, with plots and sub plots that drew my attention and added to the excitement of the read. I could not stop reading this book and devoured it in one lovely afternoon. I highly recommend this book and look forward to continuing the story with a possible start of a lovely series.
April 8, 2020
The first Jodi Thomas novel I read was in 1988 (Beneath the Texas Sky) and I continued to read her historical romances as each one was released. Then Ms. Thomas decided to abandon the historical line in favor of contemporary romance and I lost interest very quickly. Reading this book was my way of trying to recapture the warmth and depth of feeling I was accustomed to having with the historical novel line. It didn't happen for me. The plot summary is well done on the book jacket and in descriptions on line so I won't be repeating that information. Fans of the contemporary romance line will find this one much to their liking. Sometimes, in some circumstances, new is not better so I will content myself with reading the older books again.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books, Zebra for an e-galley of this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books, Zebra for an e-galley of this novel.
May 21, 2021
Unlike the Harmony series when even a jaded reader like me could read 4 books back-to-back, I was struggling to finished this one. Still using the same formula (multiple povs/couples) plus a mystery as the back story, it should be a good start.
But I just can't buy the deep love just within a few days timespan. The story revolved around 10 days I think (not sure exactly since I just don't care). 8 days just playing along, then all of the sudden, on the 9th day they all felt the love. Not even hesitant (at all) to tell the world what they felt (and of course the feelings were reciprocate). This novel feels more a like an intertwined novellas instead of multiple povs. And there were so many things left unexplained. I can't say it was wrapped up nicely since it was abrupt HEA.
The mystery? Solved in one swept. Hmmm.
But I just can't buy the deep love just within a few days timespan. The story revolved around 10 days I think (not sure exactly since I just don't care). 8 days just playing along, then all of the sudden, on the 9th day they all felt the love. Not even hesitant (at all) to tell the world what they felt (and of course the feelings were reciprocate). This novel feels more a like an intertwined novellas instead of multiple povs. And there were so many things left unexplained. I can't say it was wrapped up nicely since it was abrupt HEA.
The mystery? Solved in one swept. Hmmm.
June 7, 2020
Slow start to one crazy story, in a town with a bunch of quirky, crazy people that had me laughing out loud. Yeah, I will most likely read the next one. ;)
May 17, 2020
Welcome to Honey Creek, Texas, founded by outlaws and misfits, and safe haven for outsiders like former firefighter Sam Cassidy. Sam comes to town like an Old West hero, seeking a quiet and meaningful life, only to find the Mayor in the midst of scandal, with romance and danger lurking around every corner. But this isn’t just Sam’s or Mayor Piper Mackenzie's story, it's about a community of people you can’t help wanting to be a part of. As with most small-town stories, the townsfolk are what make the book. Thomas has crafted excellent caricatures of people we already know. From the busybody secretary who thinks she runs the town, to the trio of greeters at the church, and the lonely old rich man down the road. These are people you knew once upon a time, and the author allows us to meet them again in Breakfast at the Honeycreek Café.
Our stars include aforementioned Sam Cassidy, the interim preacher, alongside Mayor Piper Mackenzie and State Trooper Colby McBride. I love how the author takes time to give each character dimension and rewarding story arcs. The romance and dialogue are quirky, fun, and engaging. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the premise, but I was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected direction Jodi Thomas took these characters. Our preacher protagonist's credentials are a little over the top, but it’s soon clear every character in Honey Creek is larger than life in funny ways. In fact, much of Breakfast at the Honeycreek Café reads like a social commentary, a la Austen. The people and the place are somewhat surreal, like an impressionists painting, but under their painted layers are startlingly real bones. Yet it’s clear from the beginning that everyone has a part to play, from Pecos, the earnest teen, to Daily, the town drunk. All are pieces to the overarching mystery of just what happened to the mayor's boyfriend?
What truly makes this a five-star read for me (besides excellent characterization) was the author’s ability to turn a phrase. I can't think of another book I've read this year that made me laugh with lines like: "A coven of witches reportedly ran the local bakery. No one knew for sure, but they made great scones." Thomas also shows a keen sense of the layers that make up a person through clever character descriptions like: "From his stance to his slight twang, the man before her seemed pure Texan. He might be the type who said “yes, ma’am” to the ladies and fought his way out of a bar at midnight."
For everyone who doesn’t quite fit into the mold society has made for them, Jodi Thomas has created a place anyone can feel at home. I know I'll be eager to read more books from this author. Perfect for fans of clever dialogue, rich characters, and fans of "that small-town feel," I urge you to take a chance on Breakfast at the Honeycreek Café. Thomas sums up the feel for Honey Creek as Mayor Mackenzie reflects, “She wasn’t made for a small town, not in her dreams anyway. But this place flowed through her veins, slow and steady as the Brazos River wound around the city limits. Low as the wind blowing down the valley whispering of legends of outlaws and ghosts.”
**I was provided with a copy of Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
Our stars include aforementioned Sam Cassidy, the interim preacher, alongside Mayor Piper Mackenzie and State Trooper Colby McBride. I love how the author takes time to give each character dimension and rewarding story arcs. The romance and dialogue are quirky, fun, and engaging. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the premise, but I was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected direction Jodi Thomas took these characters. Our preacher protagonist's credentials are a little over the top, but it’s soon clear every character in Honey Creek is larger than life in funny ways. In fact, much of Breakfast at the Honeycreek Café reads like a social commentary, a la Austen. The people and the place are somewhat surreal, like an impressionists painting, but under their painted layers are startlingly real bones. Yet it’s clear from the beginning that everyone has a part to play, from Pecos, the earnest teen, to Daily, the town drunk. All are pieces to the overarching mystery of just what happened to the mayor's boyfriend?
What truly makes this a five-star read for me (besides excellent characterization) was the author’s ability to turn a phrase. I can't think of another book I've read this year that made me laugh with lines like: "A coven of witches reportedly ran the local bakery. No one knew for sure, but they made great scones." Thomas also shows a keen sense of the layers that make up a person through clever character descriptions like: "From his stance to his slight twang, the man before her seemed pure Texan. He might be the type who said “yes, ma’am” to the ladies and fought his way out of a bar at midnight."
For everyone who doesn’t quite fit into the mold society has made for them, Jodi Thomas has created a place anyone can feel at home. I know I'll be eager to read more books from this author. Perfect for fans of clever dialogue, rich characters, and fans of "that small-town feel," I urge you to take a chance on Breakfast at the Honeycreek Café. Thomas sums up the feel for Honey Creek as Mayor Mackenzie reflects, “She wasn’t made for a small town, not in her dreams anyway. But this place flowed through her veins, slow and steady as the Brazos River wound around the city limits. Low as the wind blowing down the valley whispering of legends of outlaws and ghosts.”
**I was provided with a copy of Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe by the publisher and this is my voluntary and honest review.**
March 26, 2020
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe by Jodi Thomas is a nice, relaxing romance in small town Texas with a dash of mystery tossed in.
I enjoyed meeting everyone in Honey Creek, Texas and enjoyed the nice vacation from the current-day stresses and troubles. I enjoyed Piper and Colby and also enjoyed reading through the eyes of alternating characters. The descriptions of the town landmarks and landscapes were depicted in such a way that it really felt as if I was there. I also enjoyed the ending.
A nice start to what looks like a new series.
4/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Zebra/Kensington Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
I enjoyed meeting everyone in Honey Creek, Texas and enjoyed the nice vacation from the current-day stresses and troubles. I enjoyed Piper and Colby and also enjoyed reading through the eyes of alternating characters. The descriptions of the town landmarks and landscapes were depicted in such a way that it really felt as if I was there. I also enjoyed the ending.
A nice start to what looks like a new series.
4/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Zebra/Kensington Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
January 30, 2022
The 1st book in this series is really fun to read. The characters are lovable and the dialogues made me laugh. It is a feel good fiction in a small town in Texas with a supportive community.
December 16, 2020
In questo libro ci sono 4 punti di vista, un mistero e 3 possibili storie d'amore. E si fa leggere con piacere, quindi continuerò la serie, anche per vedere come proseguiranno le suddette storie d'amore.
May 26, 2020
E-galley from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Breakfast At The Honey Creek Café is book one in the new Honey Creek series by Jodi Thomas. I’ve been a fan since reading Rewriting Monday ten years ago. I’ve grown to love the small town settings, quirky characters and charming plots that are hallmarks of her novels. This book is no exception and was just the book I wanted to read when I picked it up. I find them a comfort no matter what’s going on in my life but especially during a quarantine.
I enjoyed learning about the small Texas town of Honey Creek, the mayor and her challenges, the substitute minister, and an undercover trooper whose goal is to be a Texas Ranger. I liked the light mystery and drama woven through the story as well as the romance. All told with humor and heart which is what I’ve come to expect from Jodi Thomas. Recommended.
Breakfast At The Honey Creek Café is book one in the new Honey Creek series by Jodi Thomas. I’ve been a fan since reading Rewriting Monday ten years ago. I’ve grown to love the small town settings, quirky characters and charming plots that are hallmarks of her novels. This book is no exception and was just the book I wanted to read when I picked it up. I find them a comfort no matter what’s going on in my life but especially during a quarantine.
I enjoyed learning about the small Texas town of Honey Creek, the mayor and her challenges, the substitute minister, and an undercover trooper whose goal is to be a Texas Ranger. I liked the light mystery and drama woven through the story as well as the romance. All told with humor and heart which is what I’ve come to expect from Jodi Thomas. Recommended.
April 7, 2022
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Café by Jodi Thomas is set in the charming small town of Honey Creek, Texas. The story follows four characters: Piper Mackenzie, the town's mayor who has found herself in the middle of a media storm due to the disappearance of her wannabe fiancé, Boone Buchanan/Colby McBride, a handsome State Trooper who has been hired by Piper's brothers to discreetly investigate Boone's disappearance, Sam Cassidy, the temporary pastor at the local church, and Pecos Smith, an ambitious high school senior. This is the first book in the series, so we meet a lot of the townsfolk throughout the book. As the story unfolds, the characters various storylines come together as the mystery of the missing man and the danger to the mayor come to a head.
I enjoyed my first visit to Honey Creek and look forward to the remaining books in this series. I enjoyed the banter between Piper and Boone/Colby. The way Piper fought against her feelings was fun, but you know she will eventually accept them but how would it work? I was very interested in Sam and his story. I definitely want to know more about him. Pecos was wonderful, almost too good to be true. He has lived a rather sad life, but is so full of goodness. I loved every scene he was in and was so happy to see him with his "found family" finally accepted and happy. This is such a uplifting story with some mystery and tense moments. I am ready for whatever is next for these characters. Julia Gibson does a nice job with the narration, using voices, expression and tone to share this story in an enjoyable way.
I enjoyed my first visit to Honey Creek and look forward to the remaining books in this series. I enjoyed the banter between Piper and Boone/Colby. The way Piper fought against her feelings was fun, but you know she will eventually accept them but how would it work? I was very interested in Sam and his story. I definitely want to know more about him. Pecos was wonderful, almost too good to be true. He has lived a rather sad life, but is so full of goodness. I loved every scene he was in and was so happy to see him with his "found family" finally accepted and happy. This is such a uplifting story with some mystery and tense moments. I am ready for whatever is next for these characters. Julia Gibson does a nice job with the narration, using voices, expression and tone to share this story in an enjoyable way.
March 24, 2024
Rich in characters .. most quirky. Humor for sure. Some memorable scenes.
3.5 stars bumped up.
It was a bit long for me though.
A favorite author of mine .. TX settings.
Reread in 2024. .. a keeper :)
3.5 stars bumped up.
It was a bit long for me though.
A favorite author of mine .. TX settings.
Reread in 2024. .. a keeper :)
August 8, 2020
Honey Creek is a quirky little town. I hope we keep seeing more of these folks as we follow other stories. Fun people and places.
May 18, 2021
3.5 Stars
This was my first Jodi Thomas book and it was a cute, fun, and very light read. It was presented in the vein of Virgin River with it's multi-POV's, intersecting storylines, and quirky citizens. Although, this was much quirkier and lighter in tone. It wasn't predictable at all and I enjoyed it.
March 25, 2020
Breakfast At The Honey Creek Cafè is one of those enticing novels that draws you in with a catchy prologue. Having read the first handful of chapters, I was already eager to learn more about the main character and play sleuth as I progressed further into the novel. There’s a little bit of everything in here- quirky characters, a plot that hooks you, and a promised blend of romance and intrigue.
Presently, there’s a strong demand for novels that help us escape as we navigate through these unknown times of quarantine. This book will have you wanting to remain on your sofa until you’ve read it from cover to cover. There’s nothing like a solid combination of scandal and high emotions to draw you in.
Presently, there’s a strong demand for novels that help us escape as we navigate through these unknown times of quarantine. This book will have you wanting to remain on your sofa until you’ve read it from cover to cover. There’s nothing like a solid combination of scandal and high emotions to draw you in.
May 22, 2020
It's always a treat to pick up a new Jodi Thomas book and return to small town Texas. As a fan of mysteries and thrillers, I was immediately intrigued by the potential of a scandal, yet I always return to the author's works because they are filled with relatable and highly likable characters.
Told over the course of about a week, the story follows multiple main characters from their perspectives as they face defining moments in their lives. While the synopsis suggests that the focal point is on Piper and the disappearance of her "fiancé" that ultimately isn't the case. Blossoming relationships and personal discoveries are much more the centerpiece. Not even mentioned in the synopsis is the beautiful and inspiring story of Pecos and Kerrie, which I really hope is continued as more stories unfold. Given such a short amount of time spent together, the love stories felt rushed as though matches were happening simply because couples were in the right place at the right time. Each pairing ultimately received their happily ever after, and while the journey was fun to follow, I wanted to see more meaning behind the connections. While young love gets a bad rap, Pecos and Kerrie were by far the most mature and certainly willing to make the greatest selfless sacrifices. The adults could stand to learn a lot from their example. There were many comedic moments that I hadn't seen much of in previous books from the author, creating quite a refreshing and incredibly charming read! Several secondary characters shine as well, showcasing the quirky, yet enduring side of small town life.
This heartfelt story weaves together all of the highs and lows life has to offer and I do look forward to my return. Honey Creek is a captivating little town filled with history, so much warmth, and lots of romance!
Many thanks to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me with a free copy of the book. This is my honest and thoughtful review.
June 5, 2020
Only a few authors have a way of telling a story with enhanced dedication and exquisite charm.
Jodi Thomas’s wit and dry sense of humor shines with each turn of the page.
If you only read one book this summer, make it BREAKFAST AT HONEY CREEK CAFE. You’ll be forever grateful you strolled through this beautiful journey.
Jodi Thomas’s wit and dry sense of humor shines with each turn of the page.
If you only read one book this summer, make it BREAKFAST AT HONEY CREEK CAFE. You’ll be forever grateful you strolled through this beautiful journey.
May 30, 2022
Awesome start to a new series. I loved the characters that draw me into the story. I hated to see it end but looking forward to the other books in the series!
Love the recipes and the cover of the book!
Love the recipes and the cover of the book!
June 13, 2020
~ 2.5 Stars ~ Very slow and surprisingly boring in several areas.
September 19, 2022
Mehhh really cheesey and kinda boring tbh. The plot kinda sucked and there was too many POVs.
June 5, 2020
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Café by Jodi Thomas
Honey Creek #1
When the news is filled with protests, political shenanigans, and the fear of catching a killer virus causing a pandemic there is nothing better than escaping into a small-town romance that has it all. In this book there are, in fact, THRE…or was if four… romances, some soul searching, a mystery, a bad guy, interesting local characters and the introduction to a series I know I will thoroughly enjoy.
What I liked:
* Meeting the two men that will star in the story…and how they were introduced
* Piper: a woman who is dedicated to her town, doing a great job as mayor and eager to end the news reports about her supposed fiancé
* Colby: a charmer working undercover to help Piper, her town, and the Texas Rangers.
* Sam: a good man who hopes that a few weeks engaging with his past will give him insight into the direction his future should take.
* Anna: The fiery redhead with a long list of things to do. She captures the attention of Sam just as he captures hers.
* The meet-cutes for both the above couples
* Pecos: a young man who will go far someday…I really felt for him but admired him as he stepped up and became knight for a damsel in distress
* Kerrie: I felt for her, too, and enjoyed the way she came through a tough time well.
* Mr. Winston: an older gentleman with a heart of gold
* The side stories…there were a few and I look forward to hearing more about some of them in future books of the series.
* That the mystery was solved, a bad guy thwarted and HEA’s were provided for the couples by the end of the book.
* The charm of the town and the way the story left me feeling good as I read the last page
What I didn’t like:
* I really can’t think of much except for the scoundrel that finally got his comeuppance
Did I enjoy this book? I surely did!
Would I read more in this series? Definitely!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books-Zebra Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Honey Creek #1
When the news is filled with protests, political shenanigans, and the fear of catching a killer virus causing a pandemic there is nothing better than escaping into a small-town romance that has it all. In this book there are, in fact, THRE…or was if four… romances, some soul searching, a mystery, a bad guy, interesting local characters and the introduction to a series I know I will thoroughly enjoy.
What I liked:
* Meeting the two men that will star in the story…and how they were introduced
* Piper: a woman who is dedicated to her town, doing a great job as mayor and eager to end the news reports about her supposed fiancé
* Colby: a charmer working undercover to help Piper, her town, and the Texas Rangers.
* Sam: a good man who hopes that a few weeks engaging with his past will give him insight into the direction his future should take.
* Anna: The fiery redhead with a long list of things to do. She captures the attention of Sam just as he captures hers.
* The meet-cutes for both the above couples
* Pecos: a young man who will go far someday…I really felt for him but admired him as he stepped up and became knight for a damsel in distress
* Kerrie: I felt for her, too, and enjoyed the way she came through a tough time well.
* Mr. Winston: an older gentleman with a heart of gold
* The side stories…there were a few and I look forward to hearing more about some of them in future books of the series.
* That the mystery was solved, a bad guy thwarted and HEA’s were provided for the couples by the end of the book.
* The charm of the town and the way the story left me feeling good as I read the last page
What I didn’t like:
* I really can’t think of much except for the scoundrel that finally got his comeuppance
Did I enjoy this book? I surely did!
Would I read more in this series? Definitely!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books-Zebra Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
June 15, 2020
No one tells Texas tales better than author Jodi Thomas--she's a true Texan who has stayed true to her Texas roots. A master storyteller, she builds her characterizations and story lines with layers, and there are always elements of surprise for the reader. Her latest release, "Breakfast at the Honey Creek Cafe" is a compelling contemporary romance filled with characters you'll want to get to know, plus small-town politics and a touch of mystery. The heroes are sigh-worthy, the heroines are smart and sassy, the humor is heartfelt, and the town itself is quaintly quirky. Piper Jane Mackenzie, mayor of Honey Creek, TX, comes from a long line of politicians and public servants. Dedicated to her job, Piper envisions herself someday advancing her political career to the governor's office. When Piper's longtime acquaintance and sometime photo-op partner mysteriously disappear at the same time the local sheriff goes missing, speculation and nasty rumors begin to swirl. One of Piper's Texas Ranger brothers calls in state trooper Colby McBride to head to Honey Creek as an undercover investigator who will keep a very close eye on Piper. As events escalate around them, the sparks fly between Piper and Colby. He finds her lovely and appealing , and she is hard-pressed to resist his outrageous charm. The new preacher in town, Sam Cassidy--son of a "traveling preacher"--arrives for a short-term stay and is soon involved in the lives of the townsfolk. Somewhat at a crossroads in his life, Sam finds himself drawn to the area and the people--especially a certain sharp-tongued redhead named Anna Presley. As the mysteries deepen and dangers loom, Colby is working hard to protect Piper and keep safe the growing admiration between them. When all truths are revealed, will there be a happy future in sight for the mayor and the lawman? Will Sam's restless heart find its home in Honey Creek? This book made my romance-lover's soul smile for all the right reasons, and I greatly look forward to the next book in the series.
Book Copy Gratis Author
Book Copy Gratis Author
January 12, 2023
Breakfast at the Honey Creek Café by Jodi Thomas
312-page Paperback story ends on 300
Honey Creek #1
Genre: Romance > Contemporary Romance; Women's Fiction > Chick Lit; Mystery > Cozy Mystery; Humor, Adult Fiction
Featuring: Texas, Small-Town Mayor, Missing Person, Multiple POVs, High School, Church, Times of Day, Sex - Closed Door, Investigation, Next Book Preview
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for suggestive language
Songs for the soundtrack: "You Are Not Alone" by Michael Jackson, "Take a Bow" by Madonna
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 📖 Page 10 of 312 Ch. 2 - Not exactly a snore, but slow, and I'm just not in the mood.
📖47 Ch. 6 -A lot of characters. It was getting interesting, but she hasn't stopped switching.
📖 195 Ch. 25 - This book opens with so many random scenes and characters that it took me a minute to get into. I still only vaguely know what's going on but I see the connections and the characters have great personalities so it's like the plot doesn't matter.
I was expecting a cute story about a restaurant instead I got 3½ storylines set in a small town. I was a little disappointed but not mad at it. I now expect that all of these cute titles are just locations within the town where a scene or two take place instead of the setting for the story.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a little different but still warm and cozy. Perfect after a lot of thrillers or cheezies.
312-page Paperback story ends on 300
Honey Creek #1
Genre: Romance > Contemporary Romance; Women's Fiction > Chick Lit; Mystery > Cozy Mystery; Humor, Adult Fiction
Featuring: Texas, Small-Town Mayor, Missing Person, Multiple POVs, High School, Church, Times of Day, Sex - Closed Door, Investigation, Next Book Preview
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for suggestive language
Songs for the soundtrack: "You Are Not Alone" by Michael Jackson, "Take a Bow" by Madonna
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 📖 Page 10 of 312 Ch. 2 - Not exactly a snore, but slow, and I'm just not in the mood.
📖47 Ch. 6 -A lot of characters. It was getting interesting, but she hasn't stopped switching.
📖 195 Ch. 25 - This book opens with so many random scenes and characters that it took me a minute to get into. I still only vaguely know what's going on but I see the connections and the characters have great personalities so it's like the plot doesn't matter.
I was expecting a cute story about a restaurant instead I got 3½ storylines set in a small town. I was a little disappointed but not mad at it. I now expect that all of these cute titles are just locations within the town where a scene or two take place instead of the setting for the story.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a little different but still warm and cozy. Perfect after a lot of thrillers or cheezies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 552 reviews