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The Teacup Novellas #3
Home to Walnut Ridge
It seems everyone needs a second chance. Tracey Collins just left Washington D.C. after her dream job became a personal nightmare. Back home in Jacobs Mill, Tennessee, she quickly realizes she's not the only one needing a fresh start. Her sister Alex is in the midst of a career change, finding new inspiration restoring furniture. Their father, a former pastor who's had his own share of disillusionment, now mentors a strange bunch of misfit bikers who do odd jobs around town as ministry. Among them, an intriguing former attorney named Noah, still running from a painful past, catches Tracey's eye. Secrets are uncovered and hearts are restored in Jacobs Mill as they all work together to renovate an old smokehouse into a new shop called Second Chances.
Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2013
597 people are currently reading
888 people want to read
About the author
Diane Moody
35 books220 followersBorn in Texas and raised in Oklahoma, Diane Hale Moody is a graduate of Oklahoma State University. She lives with her husband Ken in the rolling hills just outside of Nashville. They are the proud parents of two grown and extraordinary children, Hannah and Ben.
Just after moving to Tennessee in 1999, Diane felt the tug of a long-neglected passion to write again. Since then, she's written a column for her local newspaper, feature articles for various magazines and curriculum, and several novels with a dozen more stories eagerly vying for her attention.
When she's not reading or writing, Diane enjoys an eclectic taste in music and movies, great coffee, the company of good friends, and the adoration of a peculiar little pooch named Darby.
Just after moving to Tennessee in 1999, Diane felt the tug of a long-neglected passion to write again. Since then, she's written a column for her local newspaper, feature articles for various magazines and curriculum, and several novels with a dozen more stories eagerly vying for her attention.
When she's not reading or writing, Diane enjoys an eclectic taste in music and movies, great coffee, the company of good friends, and the adoration of a peculiar little pooch named Darby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 15, 2016
This has been by far my favorite of the teacup novellas. I'm not generally a fan of novellas because of the length. But this one changed my mind. Great character development and believable chain of events. Loved it!
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February 6, 2026Attempted 2x (05/2025, 01/2026) - just can’t get into it 🤷🏻♀️
September 30, 2013
A large cup of strong tea and an engaging book. A perfect setting for a lazy afternoon...:)
Well if you are looking for a matchless book to make your leisure time ideal then "Home to Walnut Ridge" is the book for you!!
A sweet, "Feel Good" book that takes us away from the hustle bustle of our city life to a quiet place called Jacob Mill in Tennessee. Away from the chaos and competition of big cities, its a place where weather is always good, where people still care for their neighbors, where trees are still abundant and where the quiet is only broken by the chirping of birds. It's to such a heaven like place that Tracey Collins returns so that she can heal and forget all the ugliness of her life from Washington D.C.
Tracey had always loved the small town and loved her cozy house which had been constructed by her ancestors and was probably 190 years old! But she is not alone in her quest for a second chance in life. Her sister Alex who had always loved teaching and considered her students as her children is forced to leave her job and she has now found a new inspiration in restoring old furniture and wants to open her own shop called "Second Chances". Tracey's father, Buddy, is also healing from a broken heart and has had his share of disillusionment in life but has found a new direction in his life in the form of his odd group of bikers he calls his "Elders" who do odd jobs around town as ministry. These men are from all walks of life. Some have been convicts, some are coping from personal losses but one thing that binds them together is their determination to build a new life for themselves.
One such Elder, Noah who had once been a hot shot attorney in New York catches Tracey's eye and soon it seems they have a connection with each other. Secrets are revealed and hearts connect in Jacob Mill when all these people come together to convert an old smokehouse into a furniture shop called "Second Chances" and along the way get a second chance at bettering their own lives!!
A story of love and kindness and courage to get up after every failure and a belief that everything that happens is for the good. This is one story that is written from the heart and so touches the reader's heart too. A beautiful and sweet book that keeps you turning pages. Its a perfect refreshment along with tea and cake. :)
The only thing I felt that needed more detailing was the Amanda and Tracey angle. It needed closure which is not provided. A minor glitch which in no way suppresses the overall appeal of the book. :)
A good book to read when feeling down for it makes us believe in God and his miracles that shape our life.
I give "Home to Walnut Ridge" a 4 out of 5 and recommend it for a quiet and lazy day. Now that I have read the third teacup novella, I am looking forward to reading the others in the series along with tea ofcourse. :)
This review is also available at http://njkinny.blogspot.in/
Checkout the blog for more reviews.. :)
Well if you are looking for a matchless book to make your leisure time ideal then "Home to Walnut Ridge" is the book for you!!
A sweet, "Feel Good" book that takes us away from the hustle bustle of our city life to a quiet place called Jacob Mill in Tennessee. Away from the chaos and competition of big cities, its a place where weather is always good, where people still care for their neighbors, where trees are still abundant and where the quiet is only broken by the chirping of birds. It's to such a heaven like place that Tracey Collins returns so that she can heal and forget all the ugliness of her life from Washington D.C.
Tracey had always loved the small town and loved her cozy house which had been constructed by her ancestors and was probably 190 years old! But she is not alone in her quest for a second chance in life. Her sister Alex who had always loved teaching and considered her students as her children is forced to leave her job and she has now found a new inspiration in restoring old furniture and wants to open her own shop called "Second Chances". Tracey's father, Buddy, is also healing from a broken heart and has had his share of disillusionment in life but has found a new direction in his life in the form of his odd group of bikers he calls his "Elders" who do odd jobs around town as ministry. These men are from all walks of life. Some have been convicts, some are coping from personal losses but one thing that binds them together is their determination to build a new life for themselves.
One such Elder, Noah who had once been a hot shot attorney in New York catches Tracey's eye and soon it seems they have a connection with each other. Secrets are revealed and hearts connect in Jacob Mill when all these people come together to convert an old smokehouse into a furniture shop called "Second Chances" and along the way get a second chance at bettering their own lives!!
A story of love and kindness and courage to get up after every failure and a belief that everything that happens is for the good. This is one story that is written from the heart and so touches the reader's heart too. A beautiful and sweet book that keeps you turning pages. Its a perfect refreshment along with tea and cake. :)
The only thing I felt that needed more detailing was the Amanda and Tracey angle. It needed closure which is not provided. A minor glitch which in no way suppresses the overall appeal of the book. :)
A good book to read when feeling down for it makes us believe in God and his miracles that shape our life.
I give "Home to Walnut Ridge" a 4 out of 5 and recommend it for a quiet and lazy day. Now that I have read the third teacup novella, I am looking forward to reading the others in the series along with tea ofcourse. :)
This review is also available at http://njkinny.blogspot.in/
Checkout the blog for more reviews.. :)
May 6, 2014
I liked the concept of a series of books based on different teacups. I liked the setting and the overall story. However, the characters never seemed to take on any real depth, and the resolution of conflicts in the story seemed too easy. There were so many chances for some character-developing difficulty that were swept away by the author's pen, and it just felt a bit too simplistic.
That said, I was still entertained enough to be interested in reading the other books in the set. This story had a fun concept, a fun story-within-a-story, and was a generally entertaining read if I chose to overlook the flaws.
That said, I was still entertained enough to be interested in reading the other books in the set. This story had a fun concept, a fun story-within-a-story, and was a generally entertaining read if I chose to overlook the flaws.
December 9, 2013
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up for mild romance and some situations
Best for Ages: 15 and up
I have to admit that this was my least favorite of my of the Teacup books so far. I enjoyed it, but it wasn’t my favorite. Let me start with what kept me from loving the book before I go on to what I liked.
I have to admit one of my pet peeves is when people call things their babies or children or talk about inanimate objects like they are people. In this book Alex calls her projects her children and names them. And many most of the motor cycles have names and personalities to their owners. I know it is silly that it bothered me but it did.
The romance wasn’t as good in my mind. Not as much based on character as much as the last two stories. However, I did love how both of them help each other with their problems in the end. Tracy helps Noah with his past, and Noah helps Tracy with a persistent and unwanted suitor.
I loved the historical mystery aspect of this story. The story of the teacup in this novella was by far my favorite. Maybe because I am a history buff. I can’t say anything more without giving too much away.
If you need a quick light read, the teacup books are for you.
Best for Ages: 15 and up
I have to admit that this was my least favorite of my of the Teacup books so far. I enjoyed it, but it wasn’t my favorite. Let me start with what kept me from loving the book before I go on to what I liked.
I have to admit one of my pet peeves is when people call things their babies or children or talk about inanimate objects like they are people. In this book Alex calls her projects her children and names them. And many most of the motor cycles have names and personalities to their owners. I know it is silly that it bothered me but it did.
The romance wasn’t as good in my mind. Not as much based on character as much as the last two stories. However, I did love how both of them help each other with their problems in the end. Tracy helps Noah with his past, and Noah helps Tracy with a persistent and unwanted suitor.
I loved the historical mystery aspect of this story. The story of the teacup in this novella was by far my favorite. Maybe because I am a history buff. I can’t say anything more without giving too much away.
If you need a quick light read, the teacup books are for you.
August 24, 2015
THIS is what a novella is supposed to be! I'm not generally a novella reader because the brevity frustrates me. But since I've read several Diane Moody's books, I picked up three of her Teacup novellas, and I'm so glad I did.
The premise is of an author whose favorite aunt left her some vintage of teacups. Each of the teacups has a story. Each novella is the telling of that story.
Set in a very small town outside Nashville, two teacups are found in the wall of and old smoke house that is being renovated. These teacups have a history that unfolds as Tracey and Noah are getting to know each other.
Tracey's dad was voted out of his pastor job when his wife left him for the high life in California. He started a new ministry with bikers he called his elders. One of those elders is a younger guy who lost his wife and unborn child in a horrible accident. This has affected his life, seemingly forever. Being one of the elders has been a godsend, and now getting to know Tracey is giving him hope.
There's a lot more to this story including a whole cast of fun characters and surrounding stories.
Well done and fun.
The premise is of an author whose favorite aunt left her some vintage of teacups. Each of the teacups has a story. Each novella is the telling of that story.
Set in a very small town outside Nashville, two teacups are found in the wall of and old smoke house that is being renovated. These teacups have a history that unfolds as Tracey and Noah are getting to know each other.
Tracey's dad was voted out of his pastor job when his wife left him for the high life in California. He started a new ministry with bikers he called his elders. One of those elders is a younger guy who lost his wife and unborn child in a horrible accident. This has affected his life, seemingly forever. Being one of the elders has been a godsend, and now getting to know Tracey is giving him hope.
There's a lot more to this story including a whole cast of fun characters and surrounding stories.
Well done and fun.
April 17, 2013
I enjoyed this novella. Very sweet...not your typical romance, which is what kept it interesting. The drama with Deacon (City Council chairman...a.k.a. town jerk) and Morgan (Tracey's old boss) was a good twist. As I continued further into the story, I wondered more and more about how the loose end of Morgan. I would like to know how Tracey handled things with Morgan's wife -- her best friend, Amanda. The discovery of and history behind this teacup was fun to read, as well. Anxiously awaiting another installment.
March 18, 2014
Third in the series of short, easy Christian fiction books about teacups and their owners and various stories. I got this one free at the end of the Elmo Jenkins trilogy (Dianne Moody's husband wrote the Elmo books). I had already read the first two, and plan to read more in this series. They are very light and easy, about what I need these days in my reading :)
January 4, 2023
I enjoyed the whole series but didn’t like that Diane Moody works her political opinions into her books. Alex is fired from her job from proselytizing to her students and she knows it was against school policy but does it anyway. She also pokes at environmentalist ideas. In another book 2 characters are anti union. Diane should know there are liberal Christians who would love to enjoy her books but I almost stopped right in the middle of this one because of this. But, I calmed myself and finished the series reminding myself Ms. Moody has the right to her opinion but i don’t agree. I hope that Diane will leave out these parts to her story lines so liberals and conservatives and everyone in between can enjoy her writing. I do think she is a good writer better than some other Christian writers and would be happy to try another book of hers but if I find political opinion in other books of hers I’m done.
January 29, 2019
It seems everyone needs a second chance. Tracey Collins just left Washington D.C. after her dream job became a personal nightmare. Back home in Jacobs Mill, Tennessee, she quickly realizes she's not the only one needing a fresh start. Her sister Alex is in the midst of a career change, finding new inspiration restoring furniture. Their father, a former pastor who's had his own share of disillusionment, now mentors a strange bunch of misfit bikers who do odd jobs around town as ministry. Among them, an intriguing former attorney named Noah, still running from a painful past, catches Tracey's eye. Secrets are uncovered and hearts are restored in Jacobs Mill as they all work together to renovate an old smokehouse into a new shop called Second Chances.
Breezy read, no surprises, but thoughtful advice along the way.
Breezy read, no surprises, but thoughtful advice along the way.
July 7, 2019
Home to Walnut Ridge has definitely been my favourite story so far in The Teacup Novellas series. I loved how the author entwined the history of the teacup into this book and linked it back to Tracey and her family.
The characters in this book were great and the warm, loving relationship between Tracey, her sister Alex, and their dad, Buddy, was touching, and I also adored the misfits who made up Buddy's Elders. They were so socially awkward and adorable, I loved them all, especially Noah with his sad backstory.
My biggest issue was with the name Buddy. Everytime I read it, instead of a middle-aged man, I was picturing a big, friendly labrador. However, still a sweet read.
The characters in this book were great and the warm, loving relationship between Tracey, her sister Alex, and their dad, Buddy, was touching, and I also adored the misfits who made up Buddy's Elders. They were so socially awkward and adorable, I loved them all, especially Noah with his sad backstory.
My biggest issue was with the name Buddy. Everytime I read it, instead of a middle-aged man, I was picturing a big, friendly labrador. However, still a sweet read.
February 7, 2021
Home to Walnut Ridge was an enjoyable read. At first, it felt a little slow to me, but it soon picked up. Tracey Collins leaves Washington, D.C., after her dream job turned into a nightmare. She returns home to Jacobs Mill, Tennessee, where she finds her father, who now sports a ponytail and rides a Harley, quite the change from his life as a pastor. Tracey's sister, Alex, is living with her dad after a job transition in her life.
Soon, Tracey hears her dad talking about his "Elders," a ragtag group of Harley riders who work together to help people. Amongst the group is Noah, a former attorney, and he catches Tracey's eye. But Noah has a painful past, which may interfere with his future.
Soon, Tracey hears her dad talking about his "Elders," a ragtag group of Harley riders who work together to help people. Amongst the group is Noah, a former attorney, and he catches Tracey's eye. But Noah has a painful past, which may interfere with his future.
December 9, 2017
A heartwarming love story with Christian values
I can't begin to say how much I enjoyed this book. Usually Christian novels irritate me because they tend t o be a bit simplistic and the storyline tends to be more immature for some reason. Not so with this one. It held my attention and it was much more fun to read. The background Christian-based theme just added to the whole story. Can't wait to read more of the Teacup Novellas.
I can't begin to say how much I enjoyed this book. Usually Christian novels irritate me because they tend t o be a bit simplistic and the storyline tends to be more immature for some reason. Not so with this one. It held my attention and it was much more fun to read. The background Christian-based theme just added to the whole story. Can't wait to read more of the Teacup Novellas.
July 11, 2018
Highly Recommend
Loved book 3! The teacups are my favorite part of each of these novellas! The characters and plot are,of course, a very close second. I am very excited and cannot wait to begin book number 4 in this series! Such a great series to read! Diane is such a great writer. She gets you hooked and reels you in with each chapter. I highly recommend this series. Scripture references are a highlight for me in The Tea Cup Novellas series! :-)
Loved book 3! The teacups are my favorite part of each of these novellas! The characters and plot are,of course, a very close second. I am very excited and cannot wait to begin book number 4 in this series! Such a great series to read! Diane is such a great writer. She gets you hooked and reels you in with each chapter. I highly recommend this series. Scripture references are a highlight for me in The Tea Cup Novellas series! :-)
May 25, 2018
I was loved Diane Moody's book, Confessions of a Prayer Slacker. When I saw this book for free I thought I would give one of her other books a try. I found Home to Walnut Ridge read much like a Christian Hallmark movie. It was very unrealistic and a little too predictable, so that is why I just gave it an okay rating.
November 27, 2020
Tracey has had enough! She is quitting g.
At least if she moves back to her father's house she will have time to decide what to do next. But she she gets to the airport the stranger welcomes her. Can this really be her father? More to co.e, so much h excitement. You have to read it All.
At least if she moves back to her father's house she will have time to decide what to do next. But she she gets to the airport the stranger welcomes her. Can this really be her father? More to co.e, so much h excitement. You have to read it All.
December 16, 2020
Good quick read
Alex has come home after quitting her job and not sure what to do next. She is surprised by the changes at home. Her father has long hair, an earring, and rides a Harley. Her sister is now restoring furniture instead of teaching. Then add the Elders, her preacher fathers biker friends. How all this works together is Gods message to us
Alex has come home after quitting her job and not sure what to do next. She is surprised by the changes at home. Her father has long hair, an earring, and rides a Harley. Her sister is now restoring furniture instead of teaching. Then add the Elders, her preacher fathers biker friends. How all this works together is Gods message to us
February 20, 2021
I love this series of stories surrounding collectible tea cups. This story has a quick romance between two people running from their pasts. It got a little too religious for me at some points and I lost track of where the story was going a few times which is why I gave it four stars. It’s still worth the read in my opinion.
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March 9, 2021I started this book because it was not very long. Wow how I wish it had been a lot longer. It was the perfect combination of faith, family, smalltown, and perfect love.
Love the setting, a Kentucky gal, I love our neighbors in Tennessee.
Will definitely follow Diane Moody.
If there is someone reading this review. Please know you will love every line.
Finish wanting more.
God bless all.
Love the setting, a Kentucky gal, I love our neighbors in Tennessee.
Will definitely follow Diane Moody.
If there is someone reading this review. Please know you will love every line.
Finish wanting more.
God bless all.
May 10, 2022
This is the first of the teacup novellas I have read and I really enjoyed it. Tracey goes back to her small hometown after her slimy boss starts trying to woo her, despite being married to Tracey's friend. She meets Noah and they are falling in love when the stupid ex-boss shows and puts moves on her again. That was his mistake as Tracey fights him and Noah stops the guy cold.
May 18, 2017
I didn't dislike this book- it was fair. The story itself was cute enough but it is a book primarily made up of dialog. Nothing was especially well developed and some problems were never really dealt with while others had an easy, predictable resolution. Overall it was ok.
March 8, 2018
Delightful!
I loved all the setting and activities of the characters. I loved how the Dad rose from the ashes to be made new with such an awesome outreach. I loved the heart for people and their individual stories. So much is packed into this novella! Never boring. Great story!
I loved all the setting and activities of the characters. I loved how the Dad rose from the ashes to be made new with such an awesome outreach. I loved the heart for people and their individual stories. So much is packed into this novella! Never boring. Great story!
September 18, 2018
At Home with a Heart Ready for Love
Oh, the title called to me, but there must be stars for the cover, Love it!! There is love, humor, insight and romance.... it was good!! An easy read!
Oh, the title called to me, but there must be stars for the cover, Love it!! There is love, humor, insight and romance.... it was good!! An easy read!
October 18, 2018
Loved it
A great story of standing up to the imtimidators and bullies and controllers in this world. With some good love and sticking together as a family. Part of a series but each stands alone easily.
A great story of standing up to the imtimidators and bullies and controllers in this world. With some good love and sticking together as a family. Part of a series but each stands alone easily.
November 7, 2020
Home to Walnut Ridge
Teacup Novella series is like a good hallmark Christmas movie. Home to walnut ridge just makes you happy about turning life’s troubles into something positive in life. Very good read
Teacup Novella series is like a good hallmark Christmas movie. Home to walnut ridge just makes you happy about turning life’s troubles into something positive in life. Very good read
June 7, 2024
What a sweet read!
Loved this tender story. I enjoyed the pace, the romance was well written and I appreciated the faith aspect. It wasn't too in your face, just a nice layer and it was also a very realistic story.
Loved this tender story. I enjoyed the pace, the romance was well written and I appreciated the faith aspect. It wasn't too in your face, just a nice layer and it was also a very realistic story.
June 16, 2017
Great story
This is a very good read. It takes place in Tennessee. This story is about trusting in Gods word and second chances.
This is a very good read. It takes place in Tennessee. This story is about trusting in Gods word and second chances.
July 19, 2017
Home
Home is where you feel the most comfortable. And with this story within the story is about home and the people who make. I loved this story.
Home is where you feel the most comfortable. And with this story within the story is about home and the people who make. I loved this story.
February 6, 2018
Great
This was a great God loving book about real people. People with real fears that need a second chance at life. A book full of love.
This was a great God loving book about real people. People with real fears that need a second chance at life. A book full of love.
March 18, 2018
What's not to love about this book! Pastor turned biker who still does mission work, a mystery tea cup, romance. Another cute book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews