The town of Henry Adams has had its troubles but the town is still growing. However, right now the citizens have to deal with the return of Malachi July, the town "grandfather" who had been caught embezzling from the town diner. Malachi wasn't prosecuted because he agreed to make restitution but the citizens are all very bothered by his attitude. When he finally comes to terms with how the townsfolk, especially the children, perceive his actions, the lessons that are learned are huge. At the same time , Gary Clark, a single father, is trying to deal with a visit from his ex-wife and his former girlfriend.

I love this series and the characters. Hope that the town of Henry Adams continues for a long time. ( )

Not sure what brought me to this book but I decided I'd give Jenkins another shot after reading another historical romance novel of hers that I didn't care for. Unfortunately I didn't realize this was part of a series but I had hoped this might be something I could pick up anyway. Initially I liked the idea of Mal being a guy who's a recovering alcoholic and making strikes with his diner in Henry Adams, Kansas. He also mentors foster kids and has a sweetheart. But of course he messes that up.

And then there's Gary, who's looking to reconnect with an old flame. However, has too much time passed? Would they be able to reconnect and maybe start anew?

Meh. Perhaps it's because I started in the middle of the series (and that's on me), maybe Jenkins isn't for me, maybe I just wasn't in the mood for a book like this. But overall beyond what seemed like an initial good start it wasn't particularly interesting. I suppose if I had read earlier books in the series I might feel more invested but as it was this seemed like a bit of a run of the mill story.

Bought as a bargain book but I'd recommend you actually read these books in order and not be a silly person like me. From what I understand it is possible to read them without having read like the first entry but it seems to help if you had. Aside from that, though, I'm not sure this book would appeal to others if you aren't already a fan of the series or author. ( )

I can't believe I didn't review this one. After reading Second Time Sweeter I was in shock about Malachi. I couldn't believe what he did. Even now I feel almost as betrayed as Bernadine. I may be a bit invested in the series. I knew that after I read the book if I reviewed it I may have lambasted Ms. Jenkins for taking Mal down the road she did. I'm calmer now but still hoped it would all have been some bad dream or bad joke. ( )

Welcome back to the small town of Henry Adams (wish that it was stated that this was the 9th in the series when I chose it). Long time resident Mal has to make amends......lots of amends. He did something unthinkable and has to face the music as the whole town dislikes him when he returns. There is a small story about a couple that is under witness protection that does not seem to fit the overall story. Will I try to get the other books? Maybe. ( )

This book is a nice read. There is a lot of adventure for such a small town. I have to say I would like to visit Henry Adams. The characters were likable and the lessons being taught were wonderful! I wish that the first in this series that I read was the first and not the ninth book but sometimes that is how things go.

I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review! ( )