BOOK REVIEW: Mornings on Main by Jodi Thomas (Contemporary Romance)

I was drawn into the town of Laurel Springs from the moment I began the story and immediately felt like Jillian being lovingly welcomed into this community. Thomas’ beautiful writing style expertly wove such believable emotions into these characters that each was vividly brought to life, and you will undoubtedly find yourself smiling, laughing, sympathizing, and tearing up with them as they navigate the various stages of their lives.

It was so inspiring and such a pleasure to read about all these individuals supporting each other and jumping right in to help when problems arose.  Gram was definitely a stand out character, and through her quilt shop, she helped root everyone not just to each other, but to the town’s heritage as well:  She had “woven herself into the fabric of their lives simply by caring.” The stories behind a block within each quilt were so unique and reminded me of how much they have played a role in my own life.

My mom made this quilt in 1999 as a Christmas gift for my grandparents and it featured pictures of everyone in our family across generations. She and my aunt have also made many other quilts that I have used in pictures with my children.

The romance aspects of the story are subtle in tone with an enjoyable tension that builds as Jillian and Connor begin to acknowledge their feelings for each other. This was a thoughtful look at first love and I enjoyed that the story predominantly focused on family, friendships, and new beginnings. Ultimately, we’re never too old to learn and grow nor to experience our very own happily ever after!

If you are a fan of any of the other light romance books I have featured here before from authors such as Robyn Carr, Sheila Roberts, or RaeAnne Thayne, then this should definitely be your next read! I thoroughly treasured my walk down Main Street and meeting this very special group of people.