The Bluebird Bakery: A Small Town Romance

Hometown Brothers #2

by Lee Tobin McClain

"New York Times bestselling author Lee Tobin McClain returns to her Hometown Brothers series! A veteran struggling with PTSD finds a new hopeful take on life when he connects with the owner of a small-town bakery who's sworn off men. Hometown Brothers"--

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Military Fiction

429 pages, Library Binding

First published January 10, 2023

About the author

New York Times bestselling author of emotional, heartwarming romances. Visit http://www.leetobinmcclain.com to join newsletter, get book release details, and find out more.

Reviews

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain is book two in her Hometown Brothers series. This is Cody Cunningham’s story.

Bakery owner, Taylor Harp is insecure about her looks and knows certain guys, like Retired US Army Staff Sergeant Cody Cunningham, are out of her league. Cody is a commitment-phobe so a relationship with good girl, Taylor, is out of the question. How can these two possibly find a way to each other, especially with Cody’s new responsibilities and Taylor’s old resentments?

Lee Tobin McClain has penned yet another romantic hit. She also continues to visit serious women’s issues within the scope of the novel. The characters are well-rounded, fully-developed, and vibrant. The plot and dialogue are compelling and hold the reader’s attention throughout. The Bluebird Bakery is a seriously heartfelt romance, and a 5 out of 5 star read that I highly recommend to all readers of chaste romance.

My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

Island living has its own charm and its own challenges, but the people of Teaberry Island are a tight-knit community. It was a big part of the appeal when Taylor Harp decided to follow her dreams and open her bakery.

Taylor and her sister went to live in separate homes when their mother died, so anytime they were together was special. Taylor never forgot the island in the Chesapeake she and her sister visited one summer. Or the one boy she had though was special, until he disappointed her like so many others in her life.

Cody Cunningham had a rough childhood, except for his time as a foster kid on Teaberry Island, where he found lifelong brotherhood. His time in the military should evoke the same feelings of brotherhood, except circumstances and trauma left him alone with PTSD as his only companion. Returning to the one familiar place to try to put his life back together, Cody convinces a reluctant Taylor to give him a job in her bakery. Before he can even find his footing, Cody instead finds his much younger half brother and sister deserted by his mother.

While Taylor and Cody work together to care for two little ones, their appearance of a family couldn’t be further from reality. They each have so many of their own demons to fight, and her lack of trust and his lack of commitment don’t bode well for any kind of romantic relationship.

Once again McClain works her magic and gives us a complicated story full of obstacles and challenges but brimming with emotion and opportunity. We're reminded that there is no light without the darkness, and that when we're at our weakest is when we find sanctuary and strength. With themes of forgiveness, acceptance, reunion, hope and second chances, this wonderful story of healing and redemption will work its own magic in your heart, so make sure you don’t miss this extraordinary, inspirational, heartfelt read!

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

WAY too much angst for this reader.
I liked the first book in this series .. but this one .. not so much.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming PERFECTION!

Lee Tobin McClain dazzles in this truly heartfelt and emotional read. I was so hooked on these mesmerizing characters. They have so much heart and soul. I became so attached and fell absolutely head over heels in love with them.

The Bluebird Bakery is a remarkable and rememberable read. It was an absolute delight. I DEVOURED this story. I was completely immersed as these words jumped off the pages and touched my heart.

This series is extraordinary with a full dose of heart. It’s an absolute MUST READ. I can NOT wait for book 3 in the series. I miss these characters so much already.

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain is a sweet heartfelt novel. The romance between the hero and the heroine is intense. There are hilarious, sad, and romantic moments that tug on the heartstrings. This story is like a Hallmark film but oh so much better. The romance and characters are stronger, bolder, and more fun. I enjoy following the couple as they worked on their feelings and their trust issues. Romance never dies. Small-town romances are the perfect tales. Family, complicated relationships, and new beginnings are found here. Lee Tobin McClain is the new Susan Mallery, Susan Wiggs, and Debbie Macomber. She writes so well! The pages are full of action and emotions. Everything including the pacing of the story was great! A quick and beautiful escape from reality. I love this book! I hope Lee McClain keeps adding more books. Overall, this series is superb!

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.

[Marie Pinkham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town, old loves with a world of hurt, abandoned kids and learning to trust again, all make this a story that'll pull you through to the end before you want to stop. This author always delivers on a great story with likable, well rounded characters, details that make you feel you're in the middle of the action, and satisfying endings that leave you knowing it was time well spent. I received a complementary copy of this book, but was not expected to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[gabreadsbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a very heartwarming story. It’s touching and inspiring.

I really liked the characters. The sisters in particular. I enjoyed both of their storylines. Taylor is a baker trying to create a successful bakery and Savannah is down on her luck. I liked how they were there for each other even though they haven’t seen each other in years. They each have their own struggles which made them compelling characters. I enjoyed the other characters too but the sisters had the strongest moments.

The romances were sweet. I especially liked Savannah and Hank. They were cute and Hank was very respectful of her. Taylor and Cody were also adorable. They had more of a will they/won’t they vibe. There was a dramatic moment that I felt was blown out of proportion but it made sense for the story and characters.

I think there was too much focus on people’s appearances. It took up a lot of the story and main female characters insecurities. It was overwhelming and got a bit annoying after a while.

This reminded me of Virgin River. It has the same vibes so if you like that show/book series I would recommend this.

Rating: 3/5
🌶️ Rating: 1/5

[Lisa Malmquist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taylor Harp owns the Bluebird bakery and is working hard towards the dream of making it a big success.
However, noone applies when she pouts the help wanted sign out. So she is getting overwhelmed with doing everything herself.
Except for Cody Cunningham, sho is out of the military and is fighting his own battle with PTSD and awful guilt.
He comes to Teaberry Island because it is home and he hopes to find peace and a new way forward with his life.
Cody applies for the bakery job but he has a history with Taylor and she doesn't want to hire him.
Meanwhile, Savannah, Taylor's sister comes back to live at Taeberry Island as well and is the same boat of trying to find a new life going forward.
Lots of past to work out for all of them and some real situations that anyone could run into.

[Erica Chaillot · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very sweet sequel to a great series. I love these characters and I am going to be sad when they finish.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice solid comfortable read.
I love the location, an island in the Chesapeake.
Both Taylor and Cody have deep scars and are too quick to jump to conclusions and walk away.
Savannah is used to using her looks and wiles to get what she wants.
The character development was excellent in the book and the situations were very believable.
I liked the Teaberry Island world.
Thanks to HTP and NetGalley for the advance copy.

[Jill Kemerer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this installment of Hometown Brothers! No spoilers, but there was a twist I didn't see coming! Another high-stakes, heartwarming romance. Can't wait until the next one comes out!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the heartwarming story of old misconceptions, making changes, moving forward, recognizing and grabbing on to love. It’s the story of learning to live with and move beyond PTSD, letting go of bad habits, learning to trust and open up. It’s the story of family, which comes in many forms. I thoroughly enjoyed this emotional book with its fascinating characters and compelling story.

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter on Teaberry Island in Chesapeake Bay sounds beautiful, and feels warm-hearted. The locals have few tourists to serve, so they take time to reconnect and care for the next generation. This story deals with a lady baker and her sister, who is quitting the life of a beauty pageant contestant, and turns up unexpectedly. Years ago on the island, they fell out over a boy, and that young man just happens to be here now too, looking for a basic job since he's left the Army. Will sparks fly?

I preferred the first book, The Forever Farmhouse, but this one is still full of personality, and really lively. Warning that PTSD issues are covered, and I'm told people reading by audiobook can't skip pages if it's upsetting.
I read an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book you will read about people being deserted, amazing people who are always there to support you. Cody and Taylor’s story is truly inspiring. The author will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review.

[Rubie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bluebird Bakery is book 2 in the Hometown Brothers Series by Lee Tobin McClain.
If you're looking for a second chance romance story to get lost in, I'd highly recommend grabbing this series. The way McClain writes about family, your everyday drama and love is just remarkable.
She definitely took me for a ride with book one and now book two.
TBB is a well written, phenomenal characters, amazing setting and one adventure I didn't want to end so soon. She talks about real life subjects in her books and does it so well.
I loved the small town setting also. One of my many reasons for enjoying her books so much.
Overall, an engaging, emotional, realistic story.
And I can't wait for her third book The Beach Reads Bookshop. Sounds so damn good.

HQN,
Thank You for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this eARC!

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain! This is another great story, with Taylor and Cody who are great characters! This was a page turner to keep you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next! I highly recommend this book! You won't be disappointed!

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

337 pp. the 2nd book in the hometown brothers series
Taylor and her sister Savannah lost their mom to suicide so we’re split apart. Taylor lived on the island with her aunt while Savannah pursued her modeling career. Taylor was the owner of the bakery when Ryan’s brother was discharged with memory loss. Savannah escaped an abusive relationship to be a teen companion and housekeeper to a rich man. The ending was sweet but obvious.

[Mags · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story told with great heart, depth of character and creativity. Utterly absorbing and uplifting. I'm so glad I was given an ARC to preview before publication. Well done.

[Elaine. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Would recommend this book to all

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain
A Small Town Romance (Hometown Brothers Book 2)
"Lee Tobin McClain dazzles with unforgettable characters, fabulous small-town settings and a big dose of heart. —Susan Mallery, New York Times bestselling author
New York Times bestselling author Lee Tobin McClain returns to her Hometown Brothers series!
A sweet new beginning on the Chesapeake Bay
Bluebird Bakery owner Taylor Harp loves how small and close-knit Teaberry Island is…except when the only response to her help wanted ad is from someone she hoped to avoid. She and Cody Cunningham shared a long-ago romance until he started dating her prettier younger sister. But though the sting of rejection remains, so do the sparks.
After PTSD ended his military career, Cody Cunningham came back to the one place that felt like home. A difficult childhood left him running from commitment, but when he’s suddenly left in charge of his young half siblings, Cody doesn’t hesitate. He’s ready to build a future, and he hopes Taylor will want to have a place in it. Will she keep him around long enough to see that the boy she knew is now a man who’ll love her forever?
This is Taylor Harp and Cody Cunningham's story.
TAYLOR HARP WAS fifteen years old when she learned that, sometimes, it was better to be the smart one than the pretty one.
“Let’s go, Savannah, you’re going to stay with me.” Mrs. Williams, Mom’s best friend, tugged Taylor’s sister toward her Lexus.
Aunt Katy put an arm around Taylor. “Come on, honey. You’ll be living with me.”
Taylor leaned in, welcoming the comfort of her beloved aunt. And then she processed what the two adults had said.
Shock and pain tightened her chest as she looked at her younger sister, gorgeous even with the tears that had streaked mascara down her face. Taylor should have told Savannah not to wear mascara to their mother’s memorial service. She should have done a lot of things differently, she saw now, but it was too late.
He gestured toward the sign. “That job, have you filled it yet?”
She snorted. “No. No one of legal age to work nights has applied. Doesn’t help that I can’t pay much, even though housing’s...” She trailed off and studied him. “Why are you asking?”
He shook his head. “I’m looking for work, and a place to stay, but I know—” He paused. His therapist said he shouldn’t automatically discount opportunities. “Is there any chance I could apply?”
“Are you kidding me?” She squinted at him like he was a two-headed rockfish. “You want to work night shift at a bakery?”
I recommend reading.
The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lee Tobin McClain.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hometown Brothers
Book 1: The Forever Farmhouse
Book 2: The Bluebird Bakery
Book 3: The Beach Reads Bookshop

[Danielle Mintz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bluebird bakery owner Taylor harp loves the small town close-knit of teaberry Island. So when the only person to respond to her help wanted sign is the one person she has been hoping to avoid. What can she do.
After a traumatic event left him with PTSD and ended his military career, Cody Cunningham has decided to settle in the only place to ever feel like home TeaBerry Island. Staying with his foster brother while searching for a place of his own and a job when he comes across a help wanted sign at bluebird bakery.
Taylor and Cody have a history together one summer in their teens both had feelings for each other but Cody chose to push his way and started to date Taylor sister Savannah. When Savannah tells Taylor a lie not fully knowing what it would do and how it would affect Taylor and Cody's relationship. Now working together and living right next door and Taylor is trying hard to ignore him. But when Cody gets two surprises that changes his life Taylor steps in to help him.

Lee Tobin McClain has amazing unforgettable characters and a sweet small town setting .
The characters are well-rounded, fully developed. This story isn't just one story but two stories in one. The stories are on both Taylor and her sister Savannah both have fantastic backstories as well as Cody's backstory and they all tie in well. The plot and dialogue kept me reading and a serious heartfelt romance. Lee Tobin McClain had me falling in love with TeaBerry Island I honestly wish I lived there.

[Denise Kulesa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and the characters. Lee Tobin McClain is an amazing author and makes her characters down to earth and human.

Taylor Harp lives in Teaberry Island where she spent one summer growing up. Her sister Savannah and she were separated for years upon their mom's suicide. The sisters reunited years later.

Cody Cunningham was the boy Taylor met and loved that summer. Taylor, Savannah, and Cody all kept secrets from each other about that time until all these years later.

Cody's mom left his half brother and sister with him to give them a better life than she could. Taylor was angry at both Savannah and Cody for making her think they had been together when they had not. Taylor stopped talking to Savannah for awhile and messed up things with Cody so he quit working at the Bluebird Bakery and cut her out of his life.

Savannah messed up things at her first job and had nowhere to go so she called Cody and stayed with him and the kids. Taylor assumed they were together until Savannah convinced her otherwise.

Savannah and Taylor worked through their issues and reconciled. Taylor and Cody also had heart to heart discussions and admitted they love each other and his siblings. They will now be a real family

[Kate Vale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the Hometown Brothers series, in which former military hero, Cody Cunningham comes home to the town where he landed as a troubled teen abandoned by his mother to get over the PTSD that prevents him from remembering three days (or more) of time before he found his Army buddies. The person running the bakery there also has a difficult past following the suicide of her mother and the splitting up of Taylor and her sister, Savannah.

Taylor remembers Cody--badly--but hires him to help her because he's happy to take over at least some of the nighttime baking. But soon after he moves in to the apartment above the bakery (right next to the apartment that Taylor occupies), he discovers two small children hiding under a table in the bakery. Turns out they are his half-siblings left there by his drug-addicted mother. Now he has two children to take care of.

Taylor would love to be a part of the little family that Cody and his sibs now represent, but she doesn't trust Cody to really care for her. After all... there is that past activity that still plagues her. How all this will get worked out requires both forgiveness and understanding. But who will provide it? A lovely story with, at last, a happy ending.

[Monae Doyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short sweet love story but it was also kind of sad.

This story is part of the hometown brothers series. This book takes place in the area of Chesapeake Bay. It is about a woman named Taylor Harp who is the owner of the Bluebird Bakery in Teaberry Island. She loves how small and close knit Teaberry Island is. She places a help wanted ad and the only response she got is from someone she wanted to avoid. The guy who answered her ad is a guy named Cody Cunningham. They shared a romance until he started dating her prettier younger sister.

PTSD ended Cody’s military career. He returned to the place that always felt like home. A difficult childhood left him running from commitment. He is asked to be in charge of his young half siblings and he doesn’t hesitate. He is ready to build a future. He becomes interested in Taylor but she doesn’t feel that a man like him would be interested in her. Taylor always felt that her sister was prettier than she ever was. She doesn’t feel that Cody would ever like her. She doubted Cody and his feelings towards her. I felt that she was hard on Cody because of her self esteem issues. I also felt that Cody was afraid of commitment. I did like how sweet he was with Taylor. I enjoyed reading this book.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, like the last, has given me hope for my own little fairy-tale ending. I love how each character that the book focus's on has some sort of inside issue. The bakery owner having trust issues that she overcomes and thinking she could never be good enough. The sister who thinks she is just a pretty face and who pushes past her own history of using men and being nothing but a pretty face to actually becoming something more. The returned soldier who thought he couldn't commit, who suffers from PTSD, and who not only finds a friend to help him through his past but also makes major break throughs with landing a career with the VA, buying a dream house- committing to his teenage crush and takes on fathering his brother and sister. The challenges each character faced was not only real but also very common. The fears that the baker had of her teenage crush (the soldier) getting with her sister because she, herself wasn't pretty enough, was something I feel I really connect with. The Soldier's challenge with commitment is something my current partner struggles with as will. I only hope that my story has a happy ending like this.

[Joan Arning · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet story shows the importance of honesty in relationships...even in sibling rivalry! Taylor Harp loves her sister in spite of the fact that Savannah was always the beautiful sister who got all of the attention especially when it comes to guys! I loved how Taylor has built a successful bakery on Teaberry Island. Cody Cunningham's military career has ended when he has PTSD so he comes back to the island where he lived in a foster home. I was glad that Savannah was able to come back to Teaberry Island when she needs to escape from a bad relationship. I was happy when Savannah tells the truth about her teenage years. If you like to read about family relationships, overcoming dysfunctional families and about veterans, you will love The Bluebird Bakery by Lee Tobin McClain. I received an advance complimentary copy of The Bluebird Bakery from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, wow! Layered with angst and infused with hope. What an emotional roller coaster of a read!

McClain is so mean to her characters…and I love it. 🙂 Lots of gritty topics covered here as Taylor and Cody struggle to get past the traumas of their childhoods. Plus, we get the added bonus of a secondary plot involving Taylor’s sister which is even grittier. The author does a great job of realistically portraying some very real life struggles with grace and compassion. My heart kinda hurts after this read.

Teenage romance gone awry a decade ago, morphs into the hope of second chances…if only these characters have the courage to face their issues and embrace the concept of forgiveness. Richly layered and beautifully written.

https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/03/22/t...

[Samantha (WLABB) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very sweet story. I was happy that sisters Taylor and Savannah were able to reunite, and I was proud that Savannah finally was brave enough to escape her situation. Cody had a lot to deal with - finding his way as a civilian and handling the surprise his birth mother left for him. That was part of the story I really loved because it was where his and Taylor's affection really shined. Overall, a feel-good story.

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[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captured me from page one. Sisters torn apart from each other to live with and be brought up two different ways. Savannah went on to become a model, who made many poor choices and Taylor is now running the Bluebird Bakery! She has a help wanted sign up but the one man, Cody who applies for the job she flat turns out because of something that she thinks happens in the past!

There are many twists and turns with all three of these characters that keep you on your toes. You are rooting for each of them to get what they want. Can each overcome perceived notions and make happy lives for themself?

You must read this book! It is well written and very heartfelt.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get comfortable, pour yourself a coffee, and get ready to return to Teaberry Island, in Lee Tobin McClain's second book, in her Hometown Brother's series - The Bluebird Bakery.

Binge-read this small town Island romance-

Re-visit good-hearted, unforgettable characters, from book one, The Forever Farmhouse
Ryan, Mellie, Alfie, & Betty
Meet new ones-
Cody Cunningham, one of Ryan's foster brothers.
Taylor Harp, the owner of Bluebird Bakery.
And Cody's much younger half siblings, Danny & Ava.

Heartwarming and Sweet- Keeps you hoping all turns out well.