In the Middle of Hickory Lane

by Heather Webber

From the USA Today bestselling author of Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe comes Heather Webber's next charming novel, In the Middle of Hickory Lane !

Emme Wynn has wanted nothing more her whole life than to feel like part of a family. Having grown up on the run with her con artist mother, she’s been shuffled from town to town, drawn into bad situations, and has learned some unsavory habits that she’s tried hard to overcome. When her estranged grandmother tracks her down out of the blue and extends a job offer―helping to run her booth at an open-air marketplace in small-town Sweetgrass, Alabama―Emme is hopeful that she’ll finally be able to plant the roots she’s always dreamed of. But some habits are hard to break, and she risks her newfound happiness by keeping one big truth to herself.

Cora Bee Hazelton has her hands full with volunteering, gardening, her job as a color consultant and designer, and just about anything she can do to keep her mind off her painful past, a past that has resulted in her holding most everyone at arm’s length. The last thing she wants is to form close relationships only to have her heart broken yet again. But when she’s injured, she has no choice other than to let people into her life and soon realizes it’s going to be impossible to keep her heart safe―or her secrets hidden.

In the magical neighborhood garden in the middle of Hickory Lane, Emme and Cora Bee learn some hard truths about the past and themselves, the value of friends, family, and community, and most importantly, that true growth starts from within.

Genres: Magical Realism, Fiction, Romance, Audiobook, Fantasy, Chick Lit, Mystery

336 pages, Paperback

First published July 26, 2022

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Heather Webber loves to read, drink too much coffee and tea, birdwatch, crochet, and bake. She currently lives near Cincinnati, Ohio, and is hard at work on her next book. *Heather also writes under the pen name Heather Blake.

Facebook author page:
Heather Webber Facebook

Facebook Bookaholics Group: Heather Blake Webber Bookaholics

Reviews

[Sandysbookaday (taking a step back for a while) · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCERPT: In the middle of Hickory Lane grew a neighbourhood garden, a circular patch of vibrant land that fit snugly into the footprint of the wide dead-end street, a cul-de-sac. The landscaped island rose from the surrounding asphalt road, lush and verdant, beckoning for a closer look, a long stay. It was impossible for me not to notice, however, that among its gravel pathways, trees, shrubs, planter beds, trellises and flower meadow, a secret had once been planted as well. One that was slowly being exposed with each thrust of a shovel into rich soil as a newly discovered grave was unearthed.

ABOUT 'IN THE MIDDLE OF HICKORY LANE': Emme Wynn has wanted nothing more her whole life than to feel like part of a family. Having grown up on the run with her con artist mother, she’s been shuffled from town to town, drawn into bad situations, and has learned some unsavory habits that she’s tried hard to overcome. When her estranged grandmother tracks her down out of the blue and extends a job offer—helping to run her booth at an open-air marketplace in small-town Sweetgrass, Alabama—Emme is hopeful that she’ll finally be able to plant the roots she’s always dreamed of. But some habits are hard to break, and she risks her newfound happiness by keeping one big truth to herself.

Cora Bee Hazelton has her hands full with volunteering, gardening, her job as a color consultant and designer, and just about anything she can do to keep her mind off her painful past, a past that has resulted in her holding most everyone at arm’s length. The last thing she wants is to form close relationships only to have her heart broken yet again. But when she’s injured, she has no choice other than to let people into her life and soon realizes it’s going to be impossible to keep her heart safe—or her secrets hidden.

MY THOUGHTS: My bags are packed - I'm moving to Sweetgrass, Alabama. More precisely to Hickory Lane. I can't imagine a more delightful neighbourhood, a more wonderful bunch of neighbours than I would have here.

Glory is the matriarch of the family. A wonderfully wise woman who sees far more than she says, she has finally succeeded in tracing her estranged granddaughter and bringing her back to the family fold.

But Emme has a secret, one that weighs heavily on her, and as much as she has always wanted a home, a family, she isn't at all sure that she can stay. She also has a peculiar talent, one that she puts down to the way she was raised - she can always tell when someone is lying.

Cora Bee is Emme's cousin. She also has a secret, a time of her life that she is not proud of but that she can't let go. She uses it as a barrier, a way of keeping others from getting to close. She also has a particular gift, that of seeing people's colours.

As Glory's life comes to an end, all she wants is to see her granddaughters happy and settled, and she will move heaven and earth to do it.

What can I say about the characters in this book? They are simply wonderful and from the moment I first started reading, I just wanted to move in with them and be a part of this beautiful story. I couldn't help but love them, particularly Emme who has had such a hard life, and Glory who is so loving and giving. Even Dorothy, who is falling prey to dementia is a wonderful character, and perhaps some of the strange things she comes out with have more meaning than her family realises!

This is a lovely heartwarming story, a magical story, that enchanted and engaged me.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#IntheMiddleofHickoryLane #NetGalley

I: @booksbyheather @forgereads

T: @BooksbyHeather @ForgeReads

#fivestarread #contemporaryfiction #familydrama #mystery #romance

THE AUTHOR: Heather Webber, aka Heather Blake, is the author of more than twenty-five novels. She loves to read, drink too much coffee and tea, birdwatch, crochet, and bake. She currently lives near Cincinnati, Ohio, and is hard at work on her next book.

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Macmillan - Tor/Forge, Forge Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of In the Middle of Hickory Lane by Heather Webber for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com

This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emme Wynn has been on her own since she was eighteen, her whole life she's wanted to be part of a family and she can’t believe it when her grandmother Glory Wynn tracks her down and invites her to stay with her. She lives in Sweetgrass, Alabama, on Hickory Lane and she needs help running her booth at the Sweetgrass Marketplace.

Cora Bee Hazelton has her own color and consulting design business in Sweetgrass, and she’s Emme’s cousin. Emme and Cora Bee have a lot in common, their hearts have broken in different ways, they cover up the pain of the past, hide it from people and especially Cora Bee who seems like she has everything under control.

When Cara Bee has a run in with a dog, she needs some assistance at home and she asks Emme to stay with her. She will still be able to help her grandmother Glory at home and with the market. Soon Emme realizes that Hickory Lane is one of the busiest and inquisitive places in Alabama, and living on the street are Glory’s close friends and neighbors Nannette, May, Dorothy and her son Chase and James and Alice are newcomers.

The garden in the middle of Hickory Lane is magical, it has a glazing pool and a body sensationally uncovered the day Emme arrives. Through spending time with Glory and Cora Bee, Emme discovers what it’s like to have a family, security, support, friends, and be part of the community. Emme discovers an interesting trait some of the women in the family have, a sixth sense, the truth about her paternity, who’s buried in garden, and an old family secret is revealed.

I received a copy of In The Middle of Hickory Lane from NetGalley and Macmillan-Tor/Forge in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by author Heather Webber and it defiantly won’t be my last. She certainly knows how to create an interesting narrative, full of engaging and characters I cared about, plot twists I didn’t see coming, I enjoyed reading every page and five stars from me.
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[Bonnie DeMoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emme is an outsider--cast aside, neglected, and abused by her con artist mother and desperately looking for a family to be part of. When Glory, her father's mother, finds her and offers her a job, Emme warily accepts, hoping for a family, although she knows something Glory does not. Cora Bee has experienced rejection, heartbreak, and betrayal of her own, and is dealing with the aftermath. Slowly Cora Bee and Emme form a friendship, but can either of them ever trust anyone? At the same time, a body has been discovered in a sinkhole in the community garden. Do some of the residents of Hickory Lane know more than they are telling? Rejection, secrets, judgments, and missing pieces all come together in this wonderful novel set in Sweetgrass, Alabama.

When I think of small-town fiction, this is what I want. I want a community of interesting characters who are so fun and engaging that I feel like I've joined the town myself. I want secrets, big personalities, loss, misunderstandings, and hope of belonging. This book meets all of that and more. Now here's the kicker: throw in a bit of magical realism! I was hooked! I laughed and cried, and I wondered how in the world I missed Heather Webber's 25 other books! I definitely want to go and live on Hickory Lane, but in the meantime, I'm going to be catching up on this author's other works, which I hope are as delightful as this one. This book is perfect for fans of Fannie Flagg's small-town novels.

I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed an absolutely stellar performance by Hallie Ricardo and Stephanie Willis.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from Macmillan Audio via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.

[Chapters of Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Forge Books, for the gifted copy of In the Middle of Hickory Lane. {partner}

Genre: Magical Realism
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 7.26.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

"I think darkness can be peaceful. Sometimes you can see more clearly in the dark than you can the light. The absence of color makes you focus more intently."

Just add In the Middle of Hickory Lane to my growing list of books by Heather Webber that have swept me off my feet and transported me to the world of small-town southern magic.

Webber always writes with an immense appreciation for nature and how it protects and nourishes our bodies. While In the Middle of Hickory Lane felt different from her other books, it inevitably gave me the same feelings that all the others left me with… love. Love for the characters, the setting, the magic, and the message.

I cherish Webber's character development in her stories, but Hickory Lane felt different to me, and I think it's because the characters in this story were dealing with a lot of hurt and grief. They'd been through some pretty dark times. Still, I loved watching as they all grew and discovered what it means to be loved unconditionally.

Also, it's worth noting that this is the first book in months that has actually surprised me. It was just what I needed to get out of my reading slump.

❤️ Character development
✨ Small-town Magic
🥰 Beautiful descriptions of people, places & flowers
🤩 Finally, a book that surprised me

In the Middle of Hickory Lane is a must-read if you have loved Heather Webber's previous books (Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe, South of the Buttonwood Tree & Lights of Sugarberry Cove).

______

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[Anne OK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely get carried away by every magical book that Heather Webber bestows on her readers. Each has its own blend of allure and charm with a direct hit to my heart. And the covers are always a gorgeous entrapment – the present being my favorite thus far.

In similar ways, this book is reminiscent of another that I read by a different author and enjoyed in 2017 – The Language of Flowers. Written five years apart, both books are well-written giving a special nod to the variety of flowers and their symbolism. But a visit to Hickory Lane in Sweetgrass, Alabama claims the spotlight outshining the other. The message seemed to hold more meaning, the southern charm certainly didn’t hurt and the special touches by a remarkably dazzling cast of characters – young and old -- felt like loving hugs. It must be those magical powers that give Heather Woods the added plus.

Every chapter begins with a header – a short lesson in the language of flowers and each with its own bloom, fragrance and nuggets of wisdom. Another pleasing touch and an added plus!

The book blurb generously exposes the plotting, and all I’ll add is that the characters -- Emme, Cora Bee, Chase and Jamie are all uniquely developed, entertaining and outstanding. Glory, the family matriarch and “flower lady” is truly unforgettable. Exploring heartbreak, family secrets and healing, this novel is the perfect blend of mystery, reflection, loss and the bonds of love that tie us together.

Sparks fly and the chemistry builds alerting readers to the blossoming romances for two couples. Very slow burn and taking time to fully develop. I truly felt both relationships were meant to be and not rushed. Enjoyable, meaningful and well-worth the wait.

If you’re a fan of the canine variety, you’ll be pleased to meet two adorable critters with delightful personalities of their own – Orville, a white German Shepherd belonging to Chase, Dorothy’s grandson and Mabel, a chocolate Labradoodle, who belongs to eight-year-old Alice.

A joy to read from start to finish from a natural storyteller. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy, sit back, relax and enjoy your very own magical carpet ride. Count on feeling good at the end.

[Anindita ლ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't deny that the cover does a great job of enticing me, and happily, I enjoy the story just as much as I do the cover.

What is there to say about the individual in this book? They are really fantastic, and ever since I began reading, I've longed to live with them and take part in this lovely tale. Emme, who has had a particularly difficult life, and Glory, who is so kind and caring, especially, I couldn't help but love them. Even Dorothy, who is deteriorating due to dementia, is an endearing character, and perhaps some of the odd things she says have more significance than her family is aware of!

This is what I imagine when I think of magical realism in small-town fiction. I want a town full of amazing people who are so entertaining and interesting that I feel like I've moved in. Lies, great characters, grief, misconceptions, and a sense of belonging are what I seek. All of the criteria are satisfied by this book.

Each chapter starts with a header that serves as a brief introduction to the language of flowers and contains a few pearls of wisdom. An additional nice touch and benefit.

In the Middle of Hickory Lane was undoubtedly a charming, heartfelt, and inspiring tale that moved me.

I highly suggest you can start with this book if any of you are interested in magical realism set in a tiny village.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved Heather Webber’s books since I won an ARC of Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe. I’ve reviewed South of the Buttonwood Tree and The Lights of Sugarberry Cove and raved about them. Can a fourth book continue Ms. Webber’s winning streak with me?

Absolutely.

Emme Wynn’s mother uprooted Emme from Sweetgrass, Alabama years ago and took her young daughter along with her on a life of misdeeds and bad behavior. Emme cut ties with her when she turned eighteen and has been trying to build a life for herself free of her mother’s malicious influence.

But now home has found Emme. Her grandmother, Glory, has located her and invited her to come back to Sweetgrass, with a job offer to boot. The day Emme arrives, the police have found a body in the community garden on Hickory Lane. The neighborhood is abuzz. Word has it the body might be Glory’s long-lost sister.

It’s tough for Emme to settle in. She tries, though, and slowly, she starts to embrace Sweetgrass. Glory has taken her in and is showing her the ropes of working at her shop. She’s getting closer to her newfound cousin, Cora Bee. But Emme knows it can’t last. She knows she hasn’t been entirely truthful. She dreads the day she’ll have to reveal her secret and fears she’ll lose the new family and new home she’s found.

Webber creates a realistic small-town setting, populated with people you feel like you might know. I love the neighborhood on Hickory Lane in particular. It’s a place where people know and care about their neighbors. Sure, some of them might be a little nosey. But they generally poke their nose in your business because they care. That’s the kind of place I want to live.

Each chapter was introduced with a bit of wisdom about the flowers that Glory was passing on to Emme. I thought that was a lovely touch.

The story deals with hard topics. An abusive and manipulative parent, a loved one missing for decades, a friend struggling with memory loss and independent living, poor choices leading to undesirable results. Secrets kept can become a burden. Each woman in the story has something she has not shared with others and each woman is impacted by what she is hiding. But in the right time, a secret can be revealed and that burden lifted. Webber does a wonderful job of demonstrating how liberating it is to trust the people in our lives enough to share with them we’ve tried so long to keep hidden.

Secrets come to light, family found, a little dollop of romance, the healing we find in love and community. All of this blended beautifully with Webber’s trademark magical realism and whimsy adds up to a winner of a book.

Five stars, and if you haven’t read her books, what are you waiting for?!

Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Forge Books. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I really love two of the characters in here so I’m tempted to give this four stars. I enjoyed reading this and I don’t regret the time spent, but I’d have appreciated a little less predictability and a little more depth.

Although sometimes, a book like this is exactly what you want. You have two female main characters who experience a lot of growth, you have family as well as found family, friendship, community, you have a couple of love interests for the FMCs, a bit of magical realism, etc. I’m finding there are a lot of books out there like this, and maybe I’m reading them in clumps, and shouldn’t be, but there you are.

I enjoyed the audio performance but at times it was easy to get the FMCs mixed up, if all I had was the audio and no print book handy. The voices were very similar.

All in all, a good cozy read that may appeal if you’re in the mood for any of the above.

[Marilyn (not getting notifications) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Several years ago, I received a complimentary book of Midnight in the Blackbird Cafe by Heather Webber and could not stop talking about it after I finished reading it. It was one of those books that made me feel warm all over and like I had a personal connection with the characters and their lives. Since then, I have made it my business to read Heather Webber’s books. I just finished listening to Heather Webber’s latest book, In the Middle of Hickory Lane and I loved it! All of Heather Webber’s books have a few things in common. They are all set somewhere in the South, have characters that make me think about them long after the story is over and they all possess a touch of magical realism that adds a unique perspective to the plot. Heather Webber’s books feel like a warm blanket encircling me as I read them. Lots of different emotions flowed through me as I listened to this moving audio book that was narrated by Hallie Ricardo. I did not want it to end and found myself still thinking about the characters long after I finished listening.

In the Middle of Hickory Lane was set in the charming little town of Sweetgrass, Alabama. It was the kind of town where everyone knew everyone that lived there. Within the confines of Sweetgrass, Hickory Lane existed with all the special people that happened to live on it. Emme Wynn had been invited there by her grandmother. The life Emme had been living before she arrived on Hickory Lane had been unconventional, extremely hard and provided no stability or sense of family or love for her. Her con-artist mother had whisked Emme away from her father and grandmother when she was barely a few months old. Although her father and grandmother tried to find Emme their searches were unsuccessful until Emme passed her GED’s and got a driver’s license. Emme’s grandmother, Glory, was finally able to locate Emme and asked her to come live with her on Hickory Lane. All Emme ever wished for was to be part of a family. Could she have finally found that love, acceptance, family and safety she had longed for her entire life on Hickory Lane with Glory and her cousin, Cora Bee? Could Emme learn to work through the secrets of her past to allow Glory and Cora Bee to become her family and learn to appreciate their sincerity and warmth they offered her?

In the Middle of Hickory Lane by Heather Webber was a delightful, warm and moving story that touched my heart as all of Heather Webber’s books have. It was about family, secrets, warm and likable characters, friendship, trust, opening up, community, forgiveness, loss and grief. There was also the magical elements expressed through the flowers and bees and a little mystery as well. I loved Glory’s lessons about her flowers that preceded each chapter. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of In the Middle of Hickory Lane and highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read Heather Webber’s next book. I hope I do not have to wait too long.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 2019, I was intrigued by the reviews I saw for this author's "Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe" which was published that same year. Once again, my Goodreads friends' reviews were spot on and introduced me to not only a wonderful book, but to a very talented author. It was one of my favorite books I read in 2019. Each year since then I have eagerly awaited another one of Heather Webber's "magical" books. Each book does indeed include a little bit of magic.

Filled with small town Southern charm, "In the Middle of Hickory Lane" is a story about secrets and family. It is a journey about the lessons two characters learn about life, love, loss, grief and forgiveness. It also has a mystery to solve and the ramifications of the secret of that mystery. And, as with all of Heather Webber's books, it includes that little bit of "magic" that enhances the beauty of the story.

I have to admit that I was so engrossed in the trials of the two main characters, Emme and Cora Bee, that I was totally caught off guard when all is revealed at the end. That was how engrossing their individual stories were. All it all comes together so beautifully!

Oh yes, I LOVED this book! Another winner by Heather Webber!

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! All her books have a mystical feel to them. This one was magical with unexpected surprises and secrets. I wanted to crawl inside this book and live on Hickory Lane. I didn’t want the book to end.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy

[Lisa Leone-campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Middle of Hickory Lane is another heartwarming, touching, magical story from Heather Webber, author of Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe.

In this story, the day Emme Wynn shows up in Sweetgrass, Alabama, in the middle of Hickory Lane to meet relatives she never knew because her mother left the town when she was a baby and never came back, there is major commotion going on. You see, a sink hole opened up on the street and skeletal remains discovered. Everyone is of course talking about the bones and if they are her great-grandparent’s who had gone missing back in the 1960’s.

The backstory on Emma is that her unmarried mother took her away in punishment to her father. Her mother proceeded to in the next years, steal, swindle, lie, have many relationships, some dangerous to both her and Emme, and go from town to town, state to state when people caught on to her. Then on Emme’s eighteenth birthday she wished Emme a happy birthday and told her good luck with her life. Emme now in her late twenties, has never seen her mother again.

But her determined grandmother who never really knew why Emme’s mother took her away, finally found her and convinced her to come back to Hickory Lane and stay with her and her other family. Extremely unsure of what is to come, Emme, who has never stayed in one place for long, just as her mother taught her, never even unpacks, for fear she will have to leave quickly. And although she wants to find her roots and get to know her family in Sweetgrass, she has a secret which she knows will destroy that hope.

Cara Bee Hazelton is related to Emme. She is not sure what to think of her. She is very protective of her grandmother and takes care of her. She does work and loves to garden on Hickory Lane. She keeps to herself and does not date. She tends to suffer from insomnia as she has too many past hurtful memories on her mind. But after Cora Bee has an accident, she hesitatingly agrees to let Emme stay with her to help her get around.

As Emme begins to meet the people of Sweetgrass, she begins to let her guard slip a bit. For the most part, people have accepted her, even Cora Bee, and most don’t ask about her past. As for Cora Bee, she begins to feel in Emme she has finally found a true friend.

But unfortunately for both of them, when some of their secrets come out, some not very nice, they will both be challenged by the news, and their friendship could be damaged, just as they both already feel damaged by their pasts which neither of them has been able to let go of.

As for those bones, when forensics comes back, the mystery of where the couple went will only deepen. You see, in a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business, secrets which are buried deep in the soil will eventually come to the surface and shock everyone. Will all these puzzles be solved? Will Emme and Cora be able to put their pasts behind them and start anew?

Webber’s new book does not disappoint. It has bits and pieces of mystery, romance, strong women, incredible secrets and friendship which all come together to make for an exciting read and a satisfying ending

[Marita · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I read a Heather Webber book, I'm a realist. I am not expecting the next Great American Novel. I'm expecting a feel-good book that will act as a palate cleanser between books of substance. Ever since reading Midnight at the Black Bird Cafe, I have generously believed Webber had the ability to entrance and transport me. Alas, I have come to believe that the only reason Midnight had such a profound effect on me was because I was in a weird COVID isolation space. If I revisited it, I fear I would not be similarly entranced, because every book of Webber's I've read since then has been sadly lacking substance, character development, and plot.

I'm not mad at people who love Webber's work. I just feel like she's not so much a prolific book writer as she is auditioning for writing scripts for Hallmark. Her characters have no dimension to them. Even in this book, Emme, one of the central protagonists, who has had such a hard life and invites sympathy, only gets that sympathy because the author tells us (over and over) that Emme is "blinking back tears." I was so tired of Emme's overwrought response to everything. Similarly, Cora Bee (gotta love those double southern names), is an empty shirt. She had a bad past relationship; got her heart broken - well join the freakin' club of adult survivors of growing the fuck up! Throw in the interchangeable handsome men, who always seem to gravitate to these tiny towns where everyone knows everyone, and you truly have the makings of a Hallmark movie - maybe even series. But the worst sin is that the book is boring. Nothing happens, except for constant "blinking back tears" and staring into the magic pool, until the very end. Then the "mystery" of the missing Bee (not the insect - that would've been interesting) is finally revealed, but at that point I didn't care.

I wanted to believe in Heather Webber. I think she can write. But she puts out these books so prolifically that she doesn't seem to give any time to really give her characters depth, or separate one from another. And she really has a thing for terrible mothers who we are expected to forgive in the end just because the characters have. I've given this book two stars instead of one because I save one-star ratings for truly terrible work (such as the insufferable Early Morning Riser). This book is marginally better than Webber's last The Lights on Sugarberry Cove but that is faint praise.

Now that we are somewhat past COVID (knock wood), I need to turn to feel-good novels by other authors. Heather Webber seems to have lost her mojo, and I'm wondering if she ever had it.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hickory Lane had a dark past. Just like me.”

Did you read Midnight At The Blackbird Cafe? If so, you’ll want to read this one as it contains the same magical realism and Southern charm. Grab your sweet tea, plop in some ice cubes, and cancel your afternoon. You’ll want to read this one on the porch … uninterrupted!

Hickory Lane in Sweetgrass, Alabama is home to an eclectic group of people, including grandma Glory Wynn at #17 and her great-niece, Cora Bee, who lives next door. Glory finds her estranged granddaughter, Emme, and invites her to stay with her, giving Emme a chance to start afresh.

You’ll uncover the secrets hidden in Hickory Lane and have a front-row seat to witness healing within the Wynn family. Webber has created believable characters, placed them in an authentic-sounding neighbourhood, given everyone challenges and secrets to deal with and then sprinkled a little magical realism on top! I enjoyed the unravelling, of the family history and seeing how each family member worked, first from within, and then for the betterment of the entire group.

I loved how one character described the library; her Narnia. It was a magical place that took her away to another land. Isn’t that why we all love reading? It takes us to Narnia!!! Love it.

In the magical neighbourhood garden in the middle of Hickory Lane, cousins Emme and Cora Bee, come to understand more about themselves, their past, their family and their neighbourhood. The core message of this delightful and mystical tale is that true growth begins within.

I was gifted this advance copy by Heather Webber, Macmillan-Tor/Forge, Forge Books, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

After a rough start in life, Emme is thrilled to connect with Glory, the grandma she never knew. But will Glory and the rest of her long lost family judge her for her mother's failings?

This story was super sweet, and I enjoyed the magical realism portions, the loving relationships, and the touch of romance. There was also a mystery surrounding a couple gone missing decades ago and the recent discovery of a dead body. Whose body is it, and what happened? Even though I liked all of the characters (except for Emme's mom, of course) and much to my disappointment, it lacked the emotional depth and pull of this author's previous books. However, I did really like the ending and thought it fit the story perfectly.

3.5 stars

Midnight at the Blackbird Café (5 stars) remains my favorite by this author!

Location: Sweetgrass, Alabama

I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Katy O. · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Free review copy) I have adored every single book by Heather Webber and this is no exception. What a sweet and beautiful (and just a touch magical!) story with a gorgeous setting. If you haven’t read any of her work yet, it reminds me a lot of Sarah Addison Allen ~ whimsical, a hint of magic and so many strong women. So happy I was able to read this early ❤️

[Patty (IheartYA311) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of Webber but In the Middle of Hickory Lane was not one of my favorites. As usual, I enjoyed the writing style and the characters. The story moved very slow, however. I read this book to complete a challenge in Beyond the Bookends on Facebook.

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[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Chick-Lit with a touch of Magical Realism. I read one other book by this author and enjoyed that one and I liked this one too. It was sweet but in a good way. The characters and their relationships felt genuine. That alone pulled me in. Plus, there was a little mystery involved as well. This book felt like a nice mix (even with the romance.)

Overall, I liked this one. It was the perfect book for my day. I have since downloaded 2 more books by the author. So 4 stars.

[Monica Hills · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just a really great novel to lose yourself in and forget about everything else. There was a touch of magic and hints of romance. The two main characters both had difficult pasts that they were trying to put behind them. There was even a little mystery involved. I highly recommend this book if you are just looking for a great novel to forget about your own troubles for awhile.

[Keri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew at some point Ms. Webber was going to make me tear up and chapter 20 did me in, but only in the best way. This was a lovely read if you are wanting something completely different then what you normally read. A little bit mystical and a whole lot of sweet.

[Susan Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are some things that happen when I read any of Heather Webber’s books. First, I know that I will get so involved with the characters and their stories that I will never want it to end. Second, I know that there will be wisdom, and love, and magic. Third, I will cry at the end—at the beauty, at the multitude of emotions, at the wonder. All of those things happened, and more, while I was reading her upcoming book, In the Middle of Hickory Lane. Emme Wynn has been searching her whole life to find a family, a home, a place where she will fit in and never want to leave. Cora Bee is hiding from a painful past, too afraid to let anyone in that will hurt her bruised heart even more. I loved being let into their world, watching as they learn and grow and trust; allowing themselves to let go of their secrets, and their pasts, so that they can prove that they are so much more than the things that have happened to them. Sweetwater, Alabama is inhabited by the most colorful, warm-hearted cast of characters, (okay, some of them not so nice), and there are other secrets long-buried by the folks of this town, including a mystery that is unearthed just as Emme arrives. All of this and so much more caused my heart to swell with love for this absolutely wonderful book about community, family, hope, and home.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading books by this author! This story has a little bit of everything. Some romance, family, magic, and pulls at my heartstrings. So good!

[TriciaDea_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Webber never ceases to amaze me. Folks living on Hickory Lane have their fair share of heartache, loss, secrets.... and healing. I fell in love with the characters and the town. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of In the Middle of Hickory Lane in exchange for an honest review. I can't wait until the release so that I can get the audiobook and relive this wonderful book.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book fulfills Alabama in a self reading challenge of a book taking place in every US State or territory (16/56).

Heather Webber’s “In the Middle of Hickory Lane” is a charming, heartwarming tale that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, romance, and a touch of magical realism. With its captivating characters and evocative setting, this novel is a delightful escape into a world where the ordinary meets the extraordinary.

The story centers around Emme Wynn, a woman with a troubled past who finds herself drawn to the small, quirky community of Hickory Lane. Emme’s journey of self-discovery and redemption is both touching and inspiring. Webber skillfully weaves Emme’s personal struggles with the secrets and mysteries that shroud the town, creating a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its richly drawn characters. Emme is a protagonist who is easy to root for, her vulnerability and determination making her both relatable and compelling. The residents of Hickory Lane are equally enchanting, each with their own quirks and hidden depths. Webber’s ability to create a vibrant, close-knit community where everyone’s stories intertwine adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the narrative.

The setting of Hickory Lane is vividly brought to life through Webber’s descriptive prose. The small-town charm, with its picturesque landscapes and unique local traditions, serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama and romance. The touch of magical realism, a hallmark of Webber’s writing, is subtly woven into the story, adding an enchanting quality that enhances the overall reading experience.

The plot is well-paced, with a perfect balance of tension and tranquility. The mysteries surrounding Hickory Lane and Emme’s past are slowly revealed, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth. While some plot twists are predictable, they are executed with such finesse that they still manage to surprise and delight.

Webber’s exploration of themes such as forgiveness, community, and the power of second chances is handled with sensitivity and insight. Emme’s journey is not just about finding a place to belong, but also about coming to terms with her past and embracing the possibility of a brighter future. The novel’s message of hope and the importance of human connection is both timely and uplifting.

If there is a minor flaw, it is that some secondary characters and subplots could have been developed further. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

In conclusion, “In the Middle of Hickory Lane” is a delightful read that offers a perfect blend of heart, mystery, and a touch of magic. Heather Webber has once again created a world that readers will be reluctant to leave, filled with characters who linger long after the final page is turned. This novel is a testament to the enduring power of community and the transformative potential of love and forgiveness. For anyone seeking a heartwarming escape, “In the Middle of Hickory Lane” is a four-star gem that should not be missed.

[BrandyD · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet novel soothed my soul because it was just that good. Redemption, love, family, forgiveness, trust... these all play a part in telling the beautiful stories of the Wynn ladies. I enjoyed my visit to magical Hickory Lane in Sweetgrass, Alabama. Heather Webber's writing draws in the reader, and I felt completely at home.
After listening to this audiobook, I felt like I had been hugged by my grandmother, that's how much I loved the character of Glory. We should all have a Glory in our lives.
This audio features narration by Hallie Ricardo and Stephanie Willis, and their performances were top-notch.
I received an ARC audiobook and this review is my own, unbiased opinion. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Webber has done it again. She did a wonderful job of writing another Southern family story with a touch of magical realism thrown in. There is just something a little magical about the South so it makes sense.

Like most of her books, this book centers around a little mystery in the past of some of our characters. This book is set in modern day Alabama, but we get little snippets of the past through diary entries told along the way. The main story of this book is not this little mystery though. It is mostly about finding out who you truly are and strong family ties.

This is definitely a 5 star read for me. If you like Sarah Addison Allen or Karen White, pick this book up. You will not be disappointed.

[Taylor | Benter’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

A BILLION STARS!!! This is absolutely a favorite of the year and date I say it, the PERFECT book. I will now be spending all my money on more Heather Webber books.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another reviewer mentioned that Heather Webber's books are like a warm hug. That is exactly how I feel about her books too. I don't know what it is about her writing, but it makes me want to immediately pack my bags and move to whatever town the book is set in and spend the rest of my life there. The big twist in this book was not what I was expecting, but I loved it.

[Elentarri · Rating 4 out of 5]

The rating mostly reflects my enjoyment of this novel.  The characters and settings are so lovely and warm, that I wished these people were my friends and that I lived in their neighbourhood.  Emme wishes for change and accepts her long-lost grandmother's offer to come live with her in Hickory Lane.  Even before she gets to her grandmother's front door, there is a long dead corpse found in the garden in the middle of the lane.  This is a story of secrets, family, finding happiness, and over-enthusiastic dogs.  There is nothing particularly novel in terms of plot or composition.  This novel does have elements that are similar to Webber's other novel South of the Buttonwood Tree, so it might seem a bit "samey".  However, the story is so lovely and cozy (and probably a bit too sweet) that it immediately put me in a better mood reading it.  In the Middle of Hickory Lane was a lovely, undemanding and gentle novel that I enjoyed very much.

[Sue Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes a book finds you just when you need it most. Knowing Heather Webber's books are full of charm, humanity, resilience and just a touch of magic, I picked up her latest after a rough week. And it was just what the doctor ordered. Emma Wynn arrives in Sweetgrass, Alabama after a life on the run with a con artist mother. Her estranged grandmother, Glory Wynn, invited her to get to know her and with some ulterior motives of her own. For someone who has never known love or home, Sweetgrass becomes an animated idyll. On her first day, a human bone is uncovered in the community garden. This central mystery and the issues and hurts of other residents combine for a compelling visit to Sweetwater. Highly recommended! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.