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Sisters of the Heart #2

Pathway to Lavender Valley

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Harriet ‘Harry’ McKenzie is coming to terms with buttoning up her thirty-year career with the Salem Police Department when she finally sees the letter sitting in her pile of mail. She is shocked to read that Jewel Austin has put her in charge of her estate. The beloved woman was a foster mom and guide to Harry throughout her teenage years and now she’s gone. If that isn’t enough of a blow, Jewel’s will, with specific instructions, threatens to uproot Harry’s entire life.

Harry’s love and admiration for Jewel run too deep to deny her last wish. She rushes a few hours south to takeover Jewel’s work at Lavender Valley Farm. Along with adapting to her new chores, Harry must find the other four women who were also foster daughters of Jewel’s, and convince them to join her at the farm.

Along with all these complications, Harry gets involved in helping solve a local crime and her actions endear her with the small community. Soon, she is faced with a lifechanging decision and isn’t sure she can do what is asked of her.

Will Harry be able to fulfill Jewel’s last wish and take a new path in her life?



Don’t miss a book in the Sisters of the Heart Series! You'll want to binge all of these small-town women’s fiction stories.


Book 1: Greetings from Lavender Valley
Book 2: Pathway to Lavender Valley
Book 3: Sanctuary at Lavender Valley
Book 4: Blossoms at Lavender Valley
Book 5: Comfort at Lavender Valley
Book 6: Reunion at Lavender Valley

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 3, 2023

809 people are currently reading
236 people want to read

About the author

Tammy L. Grace

83 books1,750 followers

Tammy L. Grace is a USA Today bestselling and award winning author who writes women's fiction, mysteries, and sweet Christmas stories. She also writes about the bond we have with dogs using her pen name, Casey Wilson. Tammy is known for creating perfect escapes, unforgettable characters, and binge-worthy series.

When Tammy isn't working on ideas for a novel, she's spending time with family and friends or supporting her addiction to books and chocolate. She and her husband have one grown son and a spoiled golden retriever.

Tammy enjoys connecting with readers.
Website: http://www.tammylgrace.com
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5 stars
495 (69%)
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174 (24%)
3 stars
44 (6%)
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2 (<1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Ritu Bhathal.
Author 5 books156 followers
October 22, 2023
I am so glad I downloaded the rest of this series, knowing I would want to keep reading, after each instalment finishes.
After reading Jewel's journal entries in the first book, I couldn't wait to learn more about the five girls she had fostered long-term.
Harriet McKenzie, better known as Harry, has just retired after thirty years in the Salem Police Department. Her job has been all-consuming, leaving little to no time for a personal life. Her only comforts are Chief, the dog she inherited after her long-term police partner passed away, and the letters and phone calls from Jewel, her precious foster mother.
Fresh from packing away her desk, she is confronted with a letter containing news she never wanted to hear. Jewel was no more. But more than that, she left Harry as the executor of a slightly complex legacy. The hardest part was to contact four other women whom Jewel had fostered, whom Harry had never met, and to pack up her life in Salem and head back to her childhood home in Lavender Valley to try and complete Jewel's other requests.
Certain jobs never leave you alone, and Policing is one of them. While there, she finds herself at the heart of a local investigation, helping the sheriff and community.
This was a moving story of a more mature woman coming to terms with some huge changes in her life and dealing with a loss greater than she could have expected. Along the way, she finds a tribe who could be her people and new friends, a renewed sense of belief in love and quite possibly a new vocation!
Wonderfully written with a rue moreish quality. So moreish that I am diving into the third right away!
Profile Image for Millie.
280 reviews12 followers
October 19, 2023
Awesome book

I read Pathwat to Lavender Valley(Sisters of the Heart Book 2) by Tammy L. Grace through the Kindle Unlimited program. What a great book. I so enjoyed this book. "Harry" Harriet once lived at Lavender Valley Farm as a foster child and now has returned after retiring from her job. This book just grabs you by the heart strings. Can't wait to get to know the other women that are going to return to Lavender Farms. What a great series.
174 reviews1 follower
May 4, 2023
Lovely Lavender

Honestly, I had not been a fan of book 1 in this series, but was still curious as to how the series would move along in book 2. FABULOUS ~ Book 2 is no less than Fabulous ♡ Well done Tammy L Grace ~ I'm anxiously awaiting book 3!
Profile Image for Sheri.
51 reviews
April 27, 2023
Chuck and Jewel Austin were wonderful foster parents, and to many of their dozens of foster daughters they were the only parents the girls ever really knew or could count on. Throughout the years Jewel had written letters to five of the girls she had forged a special bond with. She enjoyed keeping up with their lives and keeping that special relationship strong.

Decades later, (and long after Chuck had passed away) Jewel knows her time is coming to an end, so she writes a letter (to be sent after her passing) to Harriet “Harry” McKenzie, one of the five special women. Harry is very organized and a go-getter, and Jewel knew she could count on Harry to follow her wishes and get the other four women (that she calls Harry’s sisters of the heart) to join Harry at the Lavender Valley Farm.

Harry has just retired from her 30-year career with the Salem Police Department, so maybe this is the break she needs to get away from her old life and back to her roots. At first Harry is unsure if she wants the responsibility, but she then realizes that it would be a great way for her to give back to the woman who showed her so much love and kindness. Running a lavender farm, taking care of animals, and restarting Jewel’s dog sanctuary is an awful lot to take on, and as luck would have it, Harry also stumbles upon a series of petty crimes that has the small town in an uproar. Lucky for the town, her detective skills just won’t let her walk away from the chance to try and solve the mystery.

With the help of two friendly neighbors (Clay and Heath), and a few precious dogs, Harry will try her best to make Jewel’s last wishes a reality…if only she can find, and then convince the other four women to come to Lavender Valley too.

Since I am not one to retell the story, or give spoilers, I will leave it there. As with all of Tammy Grace’s books this newest one did not disappoint, I loved it as much as all her others. If you love small towns, furry friends, a bit of mystery, and a sprinkling of sweet romance you are going to love this one too!
73 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2023
Pathway to Lavender Valley - Sisters of the Heart Book 2

In “Greetings from Lavender Valley”, we met Jewel and Chuck Austin who fostered dozens of children (and rescued dogs) at their beautiful Lavender Valley Farm in the Rogue River Valley of Oregon. Five of those children were young girls who spent their teens at the farm and formed especially close bonds with Jewel and Chuck. Decades have passed, and those five women, who have never met each other, are now being drawn back to Lavender Valley in response to a final request from Jewel.

On the heels of her retirement from a career in law enforcement, Harriet “Harry” McKenzie is surprised to learn that she’s been named as executor of her foster mom’s estate and is the first to return to Lavender Valley. She’s accustomed to tough assignments, but has her work cut out for her as she strives to fulfill Jewel’s wishes.

What follows is a heartwarming story with characters that will help restore your faith in humankind. There are lots of enjoyable small town vibes, lovely examples of neighborly care, lots of furry animals, humor, and just the right amount of grown-up romance. I honestly can’t wait to read the rest of the series!

Thanks to the author for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Shavona Thompson.
582 reviews14 followers
May 5, 2023
Jewel has one final wish - for the 5 foster daughters that she formed the closest bond with to move home for one year, take over her farm in Lavender Valley and hopefully, become sisters of the heart. None have ever met. They were all fostered by Jewel and her husband but none of them were ever in the home at the same time. In her heart, Jewel knows they will need each other in the future. Harry McKenzie (short for Harriet) retired from the Salem Police Department and Jewel has made Harry the executer of her estate. Jewel must get in touch with each of the other "sisters" and explain the terms of the will. It is up to each of them to decide if they want to move home and follow through with Jewel's wishes. Harriet is becoming attached to Lavender Valley and her neighbor Clay. Used to being "married to the job", she is caught by surprise that she might want to settle down in Lavender Valley. Only time will tell. Can she discover the family she always hoped for? Beautifully crafted story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you to Tammy L. Grace for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews .
558 reviews38 followers
May 3, 2023
I am thrilled to tell you that I was able to read the second novel belonging to Sisters of the Heart Series Pathway to Lavender Valley. Book one was Greetings from Lavender Valley. I truly enjoyed both books and I think you will too. Actually, I am really looking forward to reading them all but then the series will be done and I will be left wanting more. I always want one more!

This book is about Harry whose real name is Harriet but everyone calls her just plain Harry. I really like Harry. She is a retired Detective with the Salem police department. She had plans to go see Jewel when she gets information in the mail to go to Lavender Valley to take care of Jewel’s farm. She is to call the other four girls who Jewel calls her Sisters of the Heart to come help for a year. This will be a long reunion for the girls.

There are so many adventures waiting for Harry. She was just wondering what she was going to do about all the free time she would now have with her retirement. I can’t wait for you to read all about the stuff she gets involved with. I don’t think she ever thought half of those things would happen to her. 

This book was a fun read. It will pull at your heartstrings in so many ways. You’ll cry and laugh and applaud for Harry. In her case, life starts at retirement. If these books sound like anything you might be remotely interested in, I highly recommend you grab a copy of them and start reading. They brought such joy to my heart. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
22 reviews
May 3, 2023
Pathway to Lavender Valley


Book two in the series is the story of Harry (Harriet) and her return to Lavender Valley after the death of her beloved foster Mom Jewel, she had just retired from the detective bureau of the police department she’d spent her career at. Harry never married or had children, so when she received the paperwork from Jewel’s lawyer she was able to pick up and return to the place she considered home. Jewel has left her in charge of her estate and she now has to convince 4 other women who she’s never met to come back to carry out Jewel’s last wishes.
On her arrival back she gets drawn into some detective work, I won’t tell you too much, I don’t like reviews that leave you not needing to read the book lol, and meets Clay, her new neighbor, a very helpful neighbor turns into a great friend, who turns into…….
Definitely a book worth reading, Tammy Grace has a nice way with a story and leaves you sad the story is over, but ready for the next installment.
811 reviews18 followers
May 8, 2023
Tammy Grace has followed up her first book in the Lavender Valley series with a sure winner! This second book is one that, once started, is very difficult to put down. Tammy highlights the value of friendship and supportive assistance between mature neighbors, Clay and Harry, which subtly develops into a potential romantic relationship.
Harry is ready to retire and relax until, in terms of Jewel’s Will, she has to return to Lavender Valley Farm for a minimum of six months. In addition, she has to locate and persuade her 4 ‘foster sisters’, whom she has never met, to join her!
As her police skills ensure that she becomes an integral part of the small-town community, she is pulled further out of her comfort zone into taking on a leadership role.
I received a free review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Carol Ardeeser.
96 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2023
I love a good series and I believe Tammy has done it again!! A loving couple who could have no children of their own fostered daughters over the years, girls who never actually knew each other but had loving goster parents in common. After Jewel's passing the girls are encouraged to return to Lavender valley Farm. Each has had a setback in life and Jewel knew they could provide each other's needs as sisters of the heart. Pathway is Harry's (Harriet) story. As she finds support and new friends and likely romance, she starts her new life and prepares for the other sisters. Can't wait to see how the others
react and build new futures. Tammy writes great true life and second chance books that warm the heart.
224 reviews9 followers
April 25, 2024
Pathway to Lavender Valley is a continuation of the Sisters of the Heart Series. The first book, Greetings from Lavender Valley, tells the story of Jewel and Chuck and their five foster girls. This is the story of Harry (Harriet) one of the foster girls, now a retired big city detective. When she receives a letter from Jewel's attorney informing her of Jewel's death, she heads to Lavender Valley to take care of the farm as stipulated in the will. The other four girls are summoned to the farm by Harry as requested by Jewel's last wishes. This is a thoroughly enjoyable book depicting farm life, small town comeraderie, a touch of corruption and later in life romance. It is well-written and leaves the reader primed for reading the next installment featuring another of the foster girls.
1,291 reviews10 followers
March 8, 2025
Sweet story with fantastic animals along with great main characters!

Retired police deputy Harry has been called back to Lavender Valley to take over Jewels farm with 4 foster sisters she has never even met! Clay lives on the ranch next door and is kind enough to help her out. When some weird criminal acts start happening, Harry gets on the case. With some help from Clay can she figure out what is going on? Read this to find out.

The pace is engrossing and the tone is hopeful with a character centered storyline that has one action scene and a few kisses. The characters are vivid and engaging. The dogs and other animals add to the enjoyment of this story. Read the series in order and enjoy this sweet story about small town life and a gentle romance!
Profile Image for Paulette.
984 reviews23 followers
May 9, 2023
Foster Mother, Jewel, has passed away and left instructions for five of her former foster daughters be invited back to the Lavender Valley farm. Harriet (Harry) a retired Deputy Chief, as executor of Jewel’s Will is the first foster sister to arrive at the farm. As Harry settles in she learns just how much Lavender Valley has to offer as memories, new friends, a mystery and a blossoming romance keep her busy. Book 2 is a delightful read and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books as more of the sisters arrive in Lavender Valley.
4,589 reviews31 followers
May 28, 2023
There is only one problem with this book. I now have to wait for Book 3. Tammy L. Grace grabbed me in Book 1 and now had gotten me totally involved with Jewel’s girls. Retired Deputy Chief Harry McKenzie is Jewel’s first foster and the one she leaves in charge of fulfilling the terms of her will. In returning to Lavender Valley, she finds herself involved in a mystery and the town. I really enjoyed this book. Now drumming fingers waiting for the next one.
63 reviews2 followers
July 3, 2023
Another great book by Tammy Grace. The characters are people you would like to have as friends. Harry's story is one of loyalty and devotion to the woman who helped her through on of the most difficult times of her young life. Jewel gave her direction and helped her to grow. Now Harry is trying to repay Jewel by fulfilling Jewel's final wishes. Great read, cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
691 reviews15 followers
July 26, 2023
great read

I loved Pathway to Lavender Valley! Harry fits right in, coming back after the death of Jewell, the one who raised her. She will be taking over running Lavender Farms along with the help of Jewells other foster daughters. I fell in love with the dogs too, and of course there is a love interest going on. Looking forward to starting the third book in this serie by Tammy L. Grace!
Profile Image for Barb Nifong.
278 reviews1 follower
January 7, 2025
A. wry good second of the series book.

The second book of the series is every bit as good as the first book, while adding to Harry’s story. She gets settled in at the farm, learns about taking care of the animals, and lavender plants, and meets her neighbors. There are some unexpected surprises that are part of her life as she contacts the other ladies who lived there and were raised on the farm. I will pick up the third book of the series soon.
101 reviews
May 9, 2023
Excellent

Harry and everyone in Lavender Valley are so wonderful. Not overly romantic or religious which is great. There is one major error in the beginning of the book. Harry is at a gas station and pumps her own gas, Oregon and New Jersey are the only two states that do not allow self serve gas. I almost stopped reading, afraid it was going to be full of errors.
10 reviews
June 2, 2023
Pathway to Lavender Valley

I don’t know how you could read a Tammy L. Grace book and not love it! Her characters, both human and furry, are personable and loving. I have to pull myself away to get any work done! I hate having to wait a few days in order to get book3 in the Lavender Valley series. Keep writing Tammy and I will keep reading your books!
298 reviews8 followers
June 7, 2023
A wonderful series!

Harry’s story of her return to Lavender Valley is one of change, loss, and learning to love. Her journey from a busy job as a deputy chief to small town living is one filled with new adventures. I highly recommend this book and this series if you are looking for something to take you away.
1,245 reviews6 followers
July 31, 2023
Fantastic

I couldn't put it down, its that good. What wonderful characters and a warm and inviting town lavender Valley is. I can't wait to read book 3. I understand why the first book introduced the characters and lavender valley the way it did or it just wouldn't flow. I highly recommend
482 reviews1 follower
November 4, 2023
Pathway to Lavender Valley (Sisters of the Heart) Book 2

This book is truly wonderful. Harriet " Harry" McKenzie retired from the Salem Police Department, she read a letter where beloved Jewel passed away. Sadness along with instruction from Jewel has others in her life coming back home. Continue reading book 3. Thank you .
Profile Image for Tina.
1,033 reviews16 followers
July 29, 2025
As I grow older, I yearn for simpler life, warmer and nicer neighbors and friends and a pace of life that slows down. This series is all that. The characters in this book found solace here when they were younger and life and people were cruel. Returning to that place to give something back is heart warming!
Profile Image for Judy G Spivey.
412 reviews7 followers
December 28, 2025
Lavender Valley had become a haven for five young girls. Could it. e again.

Harriett or Harry a retired police officer. She receives a letter her foster mother has passed and wants Harry to return to the only home she has known, Lavender Valley. A easy read with a great story line leads you to Lavender Valley. Can’t wait to read next book.
Profile Image for Trish.
199 reviews3 followers
May 5, 2023
Sisters Of The Heart

I very much enjoyed meeting Harry, the first sister of the heart as she moves back to Lavender Valley. Tammy Grace is a favorite author of mine and this book did not disappoint.
269 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2023
Book 2 of the Sisters of the Heart series.

The latest Tammy Grace series does not disappoint. Tammy has way with words that grabs your interest and keeps you flipping the pages. This story is full emotions and a happy ending.
38 reviews
June 12, 2023
This was a great story. I enjoyed getting to know Harry and some of the residents. I’m glad I read the first story (prequel) because I did need to refer back to refresh my memory as to who each of the 5 sisters are. The story held my interest and I’m getting ready to move on to the next!
45 reviews
July 21, 2023
Jump into Harry's life story & her return to Lavender Valley to fulfill Jewels' last wish of reuniting with her "sisters of the heart". Follow Harry as she relocates back to Lavender Valley Farm & starts new.
7 reviews
August 7, 2023
excellent read

I didn’t know what to expect. The first book threw me a bit with the series of diary entries but this book was soooo good! I’m completely and officially hooked and can’t wait to dive into Olivia’s story in the next up in the series..
54 reviews
October 22, 2023
I read enjoy Harry 's story and getting know who she was in her life. Jewel had such impact on her life and what she has grown up to be in her life. I also surprise me about reading that she was police because I usually don't read police 's stores or mystery but it is not bad.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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