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Blessings #7
Stepping to a New Day: A Blessings Novel (Blessings Series, Book 7)
NAACP nominee and USA Today bestselling author Beverly Jenkins returns to the town of Henry Adams with a story of family, friendship, love, and second chances.
In Henry Adams, Kansas, you can’t start over without stirring things up . . .
Many a good woman has had to leave a no-good man, but how many of them took a back-seat to his 600-lb. hog? On her own for the first time, Genevieve Gibbs is ecstatic, even if certain people preferred the doormat version of Ms. Gibbs. Finding someone who appreciates the “new” her has only just hit Gen’s to-do list when T.C. Barbour appears in her life.
A tiny Kansas town is a far cry from his native Oakland, California, but it’s just the change T. C. needs. While helping his divorced nephew acclimate to single fatherhood, T. C. lands a gig driving a limo for the most powerful woman in Henry Adams. It’s a great way to meet people—and one in particular has already made the job worthwhile. All it takes is a short trip from the airport for Genevieve to snag T.C.’s attention for good.
But it wouldn’t be Henry Adams without adding more drama to the mix. When Gen’s ex Riley returns with his hog in tow, it sets off a chain of events that can ruin everything—unless the residents pull together once again to save the day.
In Henry Adams, Kansas, you can’t start over without stirring things up . . .
Many a good woman has had to leave a no-good man, but how many of them took a back-seat to his 600-lb. hog? On her own for the first time, Genevieve Gibbs is ecstatic, even if certain people preferred the doormat version of Ms. Gibbs. Finding someone who appreciates the “new” her has only just hit Gen’s to-do list when T.C. Barbour appears in her life.
A tiny Kansas town is a far cry from his native Oakland, California, but it’s just the change T. C. needs. While helping his divorced nephew acclimate to single fatherhood, T. C. lands a gig driving a limo for the most powerful woman in Henry Adams. It’s a great way to meet people—and one in particular has already made the job worthwhile. All it takes is a short trip from the airport for Genevieve to snag T.C.’s attention for good.
But it wouldn’t be Henry Adams without adding more drama to the mix. When Gen’s ex Riley returns with his hog in tow, it sets off a chain of events that can ruin everything—unless the residents pull together once again to save the day.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published June 28, 2016
About the author
Beverly Jenkins
71 books5,051 followersBeverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
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June 18, 2020I have read seven of this series in twelve days and that's rationing myself. I am not sure how I'm going to cope when I've finished, which will be this weekend. Someone help me.
This is a marvellous instalment, with Riley Curry's pig situation being ?resolved, and a romance for Genevieve, *and* some happiness for the schoolteacher, plus Eli growing up. (BUT WHERE IS REVEREND PAULA'S HEA, EH? *happy anticipation*) The joy here is the huge cast and shifting focus on different stories that immerses you in the entire community, and frankly I could read these forever.
This is a marvellous instalment, with Riley Curry's pig situation being ?resolved, and a romance for Genevieve, *and* some happiness for the schoolteacher, plus Eli growing up. (BUT WHERE IS REVEREND PAULA'S HEA, EH? *happy anticipation*) The joy here is the huge cast and shifting focus on different stories that immerses you in the entire community, and frankly I could read these forever.
March 17, 2022
Such a great story!!! My emotions were all over the place. I love Beverly Jenkins books and I love Henry Adams!!!!
March 12, 2016
Oh to live in Henry Adams
June 27, 2016
Every book in the Blessings series has been wonderful and Stepping to A New Day is no exception. I love the slice of life aspect to these books, there is drama but not too much, romance but not sappiness, just a good book about an interesting group of people that you want to read more about when you get to the end.
In this book, Genevieve Gibbs is putting her past with her lying, hog loving ex husband Riley, behind her and looking at her new relationship with old flame Clay. Genevieve isn't sure she wants another relationship with a man who wants her to fit his idea of a wife, not her own authentic self. When new resident Terrence comes to own to temp as a driver, she find a man who appreciates her as she is. Riley is working his way back to town, creating havoc in his wake and readers will be happy with the resolution of his story for the present time.
Although the children of the town have a significant part of the story it is really about the adults this time and how easy it is to get into a rut and lose your friends and outlook on life and how hard it is to get yourself back from the negative side of life.
As always, when I got to the end of the book, I was ready for the next one! Please write fast Ms. Jenkins!!!
In this book, Genevieve Gibbs is putting her past with her lying, hog loving ex husband Riley, behind her and looking at her new relationship with old flame Clay. Genevieve isn't sure she wants another relationship with a man who wants her to fit his idea of a wife, not her own authentic self. When new resident Terrence comes to own to temp as a driver, she find a man who appreciates her as she is. Riley is working his way back to town, creating havoc in his wake and readers will be happy with the resolution of his story for the present time.
Although the children of the town have a significant part of the story it is really about the adults this time and how easy it is to get into a rut and lose your friends and outlook on life and how hard it is to get yourself back from the negative side of life.
As always, when I got to the end of the book, I was ready for the next one! Please write fast Ms. Jenkins!!!
September 7, 2016
Late for work again
Omg I'm going to be late again for work today Ms. B you done a wonderful job again I love me some Henry Adams and the people that live there can't wait to the next book
Merged review:
What can I say about stepping into a new day Beverly Jenkins has made my day I'm sorry the book seem to be short because I finished it overnight and as usual I was late for work I and I didn't care I love visiting Henry Adams. There are no spoilers here so read the book then read then books in the series you won't be disappointed. thank you Ms b
Omg I'm going to be late again for work today Ms. B you done a wonderful job again I love me some Henry Adams and the people that live there can't wait to the next book
Merged review:
What can I say about stepping into a new day Beverly Jenkins has made my day I'm sorry the book seem to be short because I finished it overnight and as usual I was late for work I and I didn't care I love visiting Henry Adams. There are no spoilers here so read the book then read then books in the series you won't be disappointed. thank you Ms b
December 30, 2021
Make Peace with YourSelf so Your Blessing can Flow
Read
June 29, 2016You Must Visit!
This trip to Henry Adams was like visiting an old friend. Beverly Jenkins is such a masterful storyteller. I loved the mini stories of the good citizens of Henry Adams. This book hit the literary trifecta: historical facts, great storyline, entertaining characters. My favorite this time was Riley's Redemption, but only time will tell if he will slip back to his old ways. Loved the bit of mystery involving Rev. Paula's family. I am so looking forward to the next "Blessings" book! In the meantime, I highly recommend this one!!!
This trip to Henry Adams was like visiting an old friend. Beverly Jenkins is such a masterful storyteller. I loved the mini stories of the good citizens of Henry Adams. This book hit the literary trifecta: historical facts, great storyline, entertaining characters. My favorite this time was Riley's Redemption, but only time will tell if he will slip back to his old ways. Loved the bit of mystery involving Rev. Paula's family. I am so looking forward to the next "Blessings" book! In the meantime, I highly recommend this one!!!
July 18, 2020
Needed to go back to Henry Adams, and as I’ve come to realize, Beverly Jenkins doesn’t disappoint! Definitely worth reading! 4 stars
May 19, 2017
This is the seventh installment of Beverly Jenkins' "Blessings Series." Sometimes I have to go back to the fantasy world where a black woman can buy a town on Ebay. These books always fill my heart with goodness. Where else can you get a hog repossessed? This installment is for Genevieve who survived humiliation of a husband who loved a hog more than he loved his wife. But Genevieve created a new life for herself and stepped out into a new day.
September 19, 2020
I wasn't sure I was going to like this one, as I quickly realized it was mostly about the adults, and not the kids (I do enjoy Zoey, Devon, and the rest). And worse yet, it featured some previously minor adults: Genvieve, Marie, and even Riley. But after a bit, I became invested in this book, and the ending made me cry happy tears. Yes, it's women's fiction, not romance, but for those of you romance readers who long for "older" heroes and heroines, this one features a 60+ woman who has definitely changed herself over the course of the series, and who really finds her HEA in this book! Clearly, for Ms. Jenkins, life does NOT end at 30 or 40, and in this book (and series) she demonstrates what a full, active life men and women over 50 (and 60) can have. This is an A- for me, so five stars here.
June 20, 2017
I had not read any of the Blessings novels before, but this one certainly hooked me. I thought it was wonderful that there were nice characters and a good town, with interesting things happening to some of the characters. It was also humorous, with one of the characters being a 600-pound hog. This is definitely a feel-good story, and you finish it wishing that your town were much like this one.
I will be reading more of this series.
I will be reading more of this series.
January 23, 2021
Stepping to a New Day. My heart was filled with so much love after reading this book. The story and characters showed how God's true love is suppose to be administered. Genevieve is a true angel. Even though she had been hurt by Marie and Riley, she still helped them get back on track. Rev. Paula discovers about her family and the dream that had haunted her. The kids of Henry Adams continues to grow up and amaze everyone with the knowledge they are learning. I love this series!
May 11, 2021
Not a bad addition but not my favorite. I really loved Gen's story arc here though.
June 28, 2016
The next installment in the Blessing Series by Beverly Jenkins brings us back to Henry Adams and catches us up on the goings on of the small town's citizens. I read it in one night and can't wait for the next story in the series. It's a good filler and I enjoyed the story, but I've come to expect more from this author.
My issues with this particular work was the unnecessary back story for some of the characters. Yes, I get it. The publishing house wants a "new" reader to be able to pick up the book and understand the dynamics, but putting it into this book diluted the story of Gwen and TC. It also made Pastor Dr. Paula's story choppier than I'd have liked. It's a hard decision for author and editor to make - how much "backstory" from the series to include with the most recent installation. I would rather see less and have new readers go and pick up the other books.
This was an enjoyable read, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. My advice to new readers is to start at the beginning. Get to know Henry Adams, Kansas with Bernadette. I am still looking forward to getting back to this town and these characters who have become some of my best friends.
My issues with this particular work was the unnecessary back story for some of the characters. Yes, I get it. The publishing house wants a "new" reader to be able to pick up the book and understand the dynamics, but putting it into this book diluted the story of Gwen and TC. It also made Pastor Dr. Paula's story choppier than I'd have liked. It's a hard decision for author and editor to make - how much "backstory" from the series to include with the most recent installation. I would rather see less and have new readers go and pick up the other books.
This was an enjoyable read, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. My advice to new readers is to start at the beginning. Get to know Henry Adams, Kansas with Bernadette. I am still looking forward to getting back to this town and these characters who have become some of my best friends.
September 8, 2016
The small town of Henry Adams is a far cry from the big city TC is used to, but he takes to it almost seamlessly. He is a man of few words, and a huge heart, who is ready and willing to jump in with both feet for anyone who needs him. The drama of life in a small town is ever present in this story, yet the power of Faith rings strong through it all. Ms. Jenkins’ talents shine in the way she delivers truly heartwarming characters whose story-lines keep you coming back for more.
Lototy
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
Lototy
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Official Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More
October 18, 2020
Things in town are going good, although I could have done without Riley showing back up. For the most part I really love all the characters, but Riley, I want him to get his, he's been so horrible to so many people, yet he keeps skating by. And this time is the same. The people of Henry Adam are better than me, because they all seem to forgive him, even the people that he has harmed the most. I will say that I love Riley's new job and his new boss! He was quite firmly put in his place, couldn't have happen to a better person.
The kids of Henry Adams continue to surprise me. Amari comes up with good ideas, it's fun to see how he gets the other kids and adults to help him bring his vision to life.
TC, a new member of town fit right in. I felt for him and his secret, glad that he didn't keep it a secret all too long and went about doing something about it. It also helped that by helping himself he won the girl, something both of them deserved!
Reverend Paula took some hard hits in this one, but as much as she takes care of the town, the town was there to take care of her.
The kids of Henry Adams continue to surprise me. Amari comes up with good ideas, it's fun to see how he gets the other kids and adults to help him bring his vision to life.
TC, a new member of town fit right in. I felt for him and his secret, glad that he didn't keep it a secret all too long and went about doing something about it. It also helped that by helping himself he won the girl, something both of them deserved!
Reverend Paula took some hard hits in this one, but as much as she takes care of the town, the town was there to take care of her.
July 29, 2026
For 2026 #JenkinsJuly, I took a double dip into her backlist, and was really looking forward to this visit to contemporary Henry Adams. The Real Senior Citizens are still going strong with their drama, but not for long: a few characters have real come-to-Jesus moments and realize that they have to shape up on their own if they want to get out of the holes they have dug for themselves. This includes ex-mayor Riley Curry, owner of Cletus the hog, who finds himself broke in LA at the start of the book. He makes his way back to Henry Adams, but not without buying some trouble on the way. When Cletus is basically repossessed for unpaid fees to the animal trainer he hired when he thought he'd strike it rich in California, Riley hits rock bottom.
As low as Riley is, his ex-wife Genevieve has really blossomed into her own person over the last few books. She is ready to move back to her family land and rebuild the house Cletus destroyed back in Book #1. Most folks are cheering on the new, strong, independent Gen - except for her tepid long-time beau, Clay Dobbs, and her best friend, Marie Jefferson. Gen is ready to re-start her life, however, and isn't going to let anyone stand in her way.
Marie is still wallowing over the blowback from events in the last book, and she has all but hidden herself away from everyone and everything. Gen's desire to move out of her house forces Marie to face some home truths of her own.
Reverend Paula Grant is the town's only licensed counseler, and she's been there for everyone, from the kids all the way up to the adults. Unfortunately, her past is coming back for her now; her grandfather recently died, and she finds herself going back to the place she hates most, to face a past she'd rather forget. She has some truly hateful family members, and some things happen here that made my jaw drop. The reverberations from Paula's storyline will be echoing through future books.
Meanwhile, TC Barbour, Gary Clark's uncle, has recently retired and decided to come visit his nephew. He takes the job of driver for Bernadine and the rest of the town, and falls head over heels for Genevieve. Their courtship is incredibly sweet, and it's lovely to see someone ready to accept the new Genevieve exactly as she is in the present. TC has a couple of issues of his own (because of course he does!), but he presses forward to take steps to remedy them.
As for the Henry Adams kid contingent - the focus this book is on Eli, who is about to turn 19 and graduate from high school. As much as he likes Henry Adams, the townsfolk, and his father, he harbors a serious desire to return to California. He's not sure how to communicate this to his dad, however. Crystal calls him on some stuff and forces him to mature a little, and he also takes Wyatt under his wing when the other kids see how hurt he is about not having a father. When Eli's grandparents arrive in town, and his grandmother announces she wants to move to Henry Adams, too, he feels he's really in the soup.
Eli was a complete jackass when he first arrived, so it is nice to see him growing up and maturing a little, and doing some self-reflection. He and Crystal have been competing for a scholarship and showing at a glitzy California museum for a couple of books now, and we finally find out how that storyline ends.
I absolutely loved coming back to Henry Adams, but the end of this book was a little disappointing, because it felt so rushed. Still, this is Henry Adams, and this book had a great throwback to an incident that occured in Something Like Love, which was my other choice for this #JenkinsJuly, so that was a lovely surprise. I'm definitely looking forward to next month's read!
As low as Riley is, his ex-wife Genevieve has really blossomed into her own person over the last few books. She is ready to move back to her family land and rebuild the house Cletus destroyed back in Book #1. Most folks are cheering on the new, strong, independent Gen - except for her tepid long-time beau, Clay Dobbs, and her best friend, Marie Jefferson. Gen is ready to re-start her life, however, and isn't going to let anyone stand in her way.
Marie is still wallowing over the blowback from events in the last book, and she has all but hidden herself away from everyone and everything. Gen's desire to move out of her house forces Marie to face some home truths of her own.
Reverend Paula Grant is the town's only licensed counseler, and she's been there for everyone, from the kids all the way up to the adults. Unfortunately, her past is coming back for her now; her grandfather recently died, and she finds herself going back to the place she hates most, to face a past she'd rather forget. She has some truly hateful family members, and some things happen here that made my jaw drop. The reverberations from Paula's storyline will be echoing through future books.
Meanwhile, TC Barbour, Gary Clark's uncle, has recently retired and decided to come visit his nephew. He takes the job of driver for Bernadine and the rest of the town, and falls head over heels for Genevieve. Their courtship is incredibly sweet, and it's lovely to see someone ready to accept the new Genevieve exactly as she is in the present. TC has a couple of issues of his own (because of course he does!), but he presses forward to take steps to remedy them.
As for the Henry Adams kid contingent - the focus this book is on Eli, who is about to turn 19 and graduate from high school. As much as he likes Henry Adams, the townsfolk, and his father, he harbors a serious desire to return to California. He's not sure how to communicate this to his dad, however. Crystal calls him on some stuff and forces him to mature a little, and he also takes Wyatt under his wing when the other kids see how hurt he is about not having a father. When Eli's grandparents arrive in town, and his grandmother announces she wants to move to Henry Adams, too, he feels he's really in the soup.
Eli was a complete jackass when he first arrived, so it is nice to see him growing up and maturing a little, and doing some self-reflection. He and Crystal have been competing for a scholarship and showing at a glitzy California museum for a couple of books now, and we finally find out how that storyline ends.
I absolutely loved coming back to Henry Adams, but the end of this book was a little disappointing, because it felt so rushed. Still, this is Henry Adams, and this book had a great throwback to an incident that occured in Something Like Love, which was my other choice for this #JenkinsJuly, so that was a lovely surprise. I'm definitely looking forward to next month's read!
July 16, 2016
Update! Here's my full review: http://www.bookishrealmreviews.com/20...
Definitely a cute book with a wonderful story line. I have to admit that I thought I wasn't going to like it but I flew through it in a couple of days and it definitely left me wanting more. This story is full of great characters and plot lines. There is so much more that I want to know about the characters and this was the first book I read by this author. Now I plan to go back and read the other books in the series so I can fully understand how this town came about.
Definitely a cute book with a wonderful story line. I have to admit that I thought I wasn't going to like it but I flew through it in a couple of days and it definitely left me wanting more. This story is full of great characters and plot lines. There is so much more that I want to know about the characters and this was the first book I read by this author. Now I plan to go back and read the other books in the series so I can fully understand how this town came about.
December 14, 2023
This is a bit formulaic but no less sweet. I love how Henry Adam's is growing and changing.
While I love these novels, they are a wee-bit heavy on respectability politics, strong xtian themes when I prefer lighter themes, a bit fat phobic, and a bit homophobic, though gay characters exist.
The charm of this wholesome town is perfect in so many ways. I'd move there and see Ms. Bernadine about helping the town be less of all the above. 🥰
While I love these novels, they are a wee-bit heavy on respectability politics, strong xtian themes when I prefer lighter themes, a bit fat phobic, and a bit homophobic, though gay characters exist.
The charm of this wholesome town is perfect in so many ways. I'd move there and see Ms. Bernadine about helping the town be less of all the above. 🥰
June 30, 2016
I enjoy this series and "A New Day" was a great addition! Quick and easy read with lots of "feel good" moments. I look forward to the next book in the series about the kids and adults in Henry Adams!
Want to Read
March 11, 2016Special Thanks to Harper Collins via Edelweiss
April 26, 2025
Absolutely fantastic book! If you like books about hometowns that take "it takes a village" seriously, this series is for you. I just love these books so much!
August 26, 2016
Love this book
I absolutely love this series and look forward to the next book. Thank you Mrs. Jenkins you remain one of my favorite authors.
I absolutely love this series and look forward to the next book. Thank you Mrs. Jenkins you remain one of my favorite authors.
September 20, 2016
loved it. loved how Genevieve came into her own, how Eli stepped up and Marie got it together.
March 21, 2024
Stepping to a New Day by Beverly Jenkins
Blessings #7
related book Night Song
292-page Paperback story ends on 290
Genre: African-American Fiction, Contemporary Fiction
Featuring: Author's Partial Bibliography, Town Map, Divorcée, Small-Town near Franklin, Kansas, Historical Black Town, Foster Care, Adoption, College Applications, Growth Trope, Relationships Woes, Independence, Illiteracy, Crime, Drama, Newcomers Trope, Feuds, Martial Issues, Secrets, Christianity, Bibliographical References, It Takes A Village, Sexual Innuendos, Multiple POVs, Birth Parents, Grandparents, Mother's Day, Author's Note
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Bumpin' On Sunset" by Wes Montgomery, "On Broadway" by George Benson, "Rio Funk" by Lee Ritenour, "The Sidewinder" by Lee Morgan, "The Sermon" by Jimmy Smith, "Cowboys To Girls" by The Intruders, "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" by Beyoncé, "California Dreamin'" by Bobby Womack, "Reasons" by Earth, Wind & Fire, "Windmill" by Lee Ritenour, "My Cherie Amour" by Stevie Wonder
Books mentioned: Yes, We Can Read by Libby Coleman, Hop On Pop by Dr. Seuss
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🆕️📅☀️
My thoughts: 📖 Page 69 of 290/292 Chapter 5 - I think I've hit the lull of the series. It's good but slow-moving.
📖 139 Chapter 9 - Riley and Clay as friends make little sense to me. I can't wait till tomorrow when I see how this ends. It's still a bit slow.
This story had a slow start but finally found its way. I'm starting to think the Author's Note is a spoiler because it asks questions I'm not thinking that alluded to what will happen in the next book. It's not a big deal because it's done sitcom-style. I prefer reading stories blindly so saying stuff like "Will so and so hook up," "Has X really changed," and "Are they going to represent themselves at their trial," is spoiling the next book for me. I'm going to start reading these notes after I finish the next book. As usual, they are taking think forgiveness thing too far my my petty bone, but I enjoyed the story. I also feel like some of these storylines are on pause and have been skipped over or accelerated in the last few books. It's months later and Kelly is just up to speed and her family is invisible in the background, along with several other characters.
Recommend to others: Absolutely!
Blessings
1. Bring on the Blessings (2009)
2. A Second Helping (2009)
3. Something Old, Something New (2011)
4. A Wish and a Prayer (2012)
4.5. Crystal Clear (2017)
5. Heart of Gold (2014)
6. For Your Love (2015)
7. Stepping to a New Day (2016)
8. Chasing Down a Dream (2017)
9. Second Time Sweeter (2018)
10. On the Corner of Hope & Main (2020)
11. A Christmas to Remember (2023)
Blessings #7
related book Night Song
292-page Paperback story ends on 290
Genre: African-American Fiction, Contemporary Fiction
Featuring: Author's Partial Bibliography, Town Map, Divorcée, Small-Town near Franklin, Kansas, Historical Black Town, Foster Care, Adoption, College Applications, Growth Trope, Relationships Woes, Independence, Illiteracy, Crime, Drama, Newcomers Trope, Feuds, Martial Issues, Secrets, Christianity, Bibliographical References, It Takes A Village, Sexual Innuendos, Multiple POVs, Birth Parents, Grandparents, Mother's Day, Author's Note
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Bumpin' On Sunset" by Wes Montgomery, "On Broadway" by George Benson, "Rio Funk" by Lee Ritenour, "The Sidewinder" by Lee Morgan, "The Sermon" by Jimmy Smith, "Cowboys To Girls" by The Intruders, "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" by Beyoncé, "California Dreamin'" by Bobby Womack, "Reasons" by Earth, Wind & Fire, "Windmill" by Lee Ritenour, "My Cherie Amour" by Stevie Wonder
Books mentioned: Yes, We Can Read by Libby Coleman, Hop On Pop by Dr. Seuss
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🆕️📅☀️
My thoughts: 📖 Page 69 of 290/292 Chapter 5 - I think I've hit the lull of the series. It's good but slow-moving.
📖 139 Chapter 9 - Riley and Clay as friends make little sense to me. I can't wait till tomorrow when I see how this ends. It's still a bit slow.
This story had a slow start but finally found its way. I'm starting to think the Author's Note is a spoiler because it asks questions I'm not thinking that alluded to what will happen in the next book. It's not a big deal because it's done sitcom-style. I prefer reading stories blindly so saying stuff like "Will so and so hook up," "Has X really changed," and "Are they going to represent themselves at their trial," is spoiling the next book for me. I'm going to start reading these notes after I finish the next book. As usual, they are taking think forgiveness thing too far my my petty bone, but I enjoyed the story. I also feel like some of these storylines are on pause and have been skipped over or accelerated in the last few books. It's months later and Kelly is just up to speed and her family is invisible in the background, along with several other characters.
Recommend to others: Absolutely!
Blessings
1. Bring on the Blessings (2009)
2. A Second Helping (2009)
3. Something Old, Something New (2011)
4. A Wish and a Prayer (2012)
4.5. Crystal Clear (2017)
5. Heart of Gold (2014)
6. For Your Love (2015)
7. Stepping to a New Day (2016)
8. Chasing Down a Dream (2017)
9. Second Time Sweeter (2018)
10. On the Corner of Hope & Main (2020)
11. A Christmas to Remember (2023)
September 29, 2020
This was one of my favorites. I kinda reviewed the whole series on the first book, but this one is another standout. I have some experience with reading tutoring and ESL, and the book she recommends here for learning to read is really wonderful; so in this review props for that and for all the wonderful afterwards Ms. Bev puts in her books, leading one to further research and knowledge. Last summer I read some books about small town Texas in two heartwarming series but I have to say I didn’t want to move to those small towns—they are like the western small towns I’m familiar with, but I’d really like to live in Henry Adams, KS, even with the snow.
I think Henry Adams is a mite idealized but it’s a possible place in government and lifestyle and that’s what makes it so wonderful. It doesn’t take impossible things for us to have equity and justice in this country for everyone; it just takes unfamiliar things like knowing your neighbors and giving folks second chances (and first chances) and difficult things like kindness instead of grudges as Rev. Paula would say.
I look forward to the upcoming TV series!
I think Henry Adams is a mite idealized but it’s a possible place in government and lifestyle and that’s what makes it so wonderful. It doesn’t take impossible things for us to have equity and justice in this country for everyone; it just takes unfamiliar things like knowing your neighbors and giving folks second chances (and first chances) and difficult things like kindness instead of grudges as Rev. Paula would say.
I look forward to the upcoming TV series!
October 18, 2020
Genevieve might be my new favorite character. She has had such an excellent story arc. From being Riley’s blindly loyal cohort, to throwing in the towel on the hog, to losing everything, to finding herself, she has really gone from caterpillar to butterfly. She deserves every bit of happiness that life is shining on her. She and TC are so sweet together. I really hope that the next installment will feature TC teaching Gen how to drive now that she has taught him how to read. They are the epitome of “never too late”, and I am so here for it.
Here’s hoping that Paula’s cascade of blessings is up next. It is a freaking miracle that she is such a nice person who comes from a home life like that. I’m glad that Tamar, at least, recognizes that sometimes the preacher needs counsel too. Now that Eli is skipping town, I hope that Crystal will take Robyn under her wing. There is BFF potential there, I just know it.
This soap opera is such a good treatment for those pandemic blues. Would that the whole world was as empathetic and community-oriented as Henry Adams.
Here’s hoping that Paula’s cascade of blessings is up next. It is a freaking miracle that she is such a nice person who comes from a home life like that. I’m glad that Tamar, at least, recognizes that sometimes the preacher needs counsel too. Now that Eli is skipping town, I hope that Crystal will take Robyn under her wing. There is BFF potential there, I just know it.
This soap opera is such a good treatment for those pandemic blues. Would that the whole world was as empathetic and community-oriented as Henry Adams.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2017
I just love the Blessing series and learning about the lives of the Henry Adams residents. The books are so heartfelt and I feel like I learn a little bit more about the good side of humanity with each story. In this installment we meet TC, an older man that is functionally illiterate. I've known an adult or two that were also illiterate and have seen them cleverly navigate the obstacle without revealing their secret. I applaud Jenkins for bringing the issue to light in such a nuanced and respectful way. This installment also allows us to see how many of the young people have blossomed since the 1st book. Lastly, it left just enough mystery to make me rush and find the last of the series. When it is over I will miss this series but am happy that I've found a new favorite author.
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