#BookReview: The Secret To Southern Charm by Kristy Woodson Harvey

About the Book

Leaving fans “practically [begging] for a sequel” (Bookpage), critically acclaimed author Kristy Woodson Harvey returns with the second novel in her beloved Peachtree Bluff series, featuring a trio of sisters and their mother who discover a truth that will change not only the way they see themselves, but also how they fit together as a family.

After finding out her military husband is missing in action, middle sister Sloane’s world crumbles as her worst nightmare comes true. She can barely climb out of bed, much less summon the strength to be the parent her children deserve.

Her mother, Ansley, provides a much-needed respite as she puts her personal life on hold to help Sloane and her grandchildren wade through their new grief-stricken lives. But between caring for her own aging mother, her daughters, and her grandchildren, Ansley’s private worry is that secrets from her past will come to light.

But when Sloane’s sisters, Caroline and Emerson, remind Sloane that no matter what, she promised her husband she would carry on for their young sons, Sloane finds the support and courage she needs to chase her biggest dreams—and face her deepest fears. Taking a cue from her middle daughter, Ansley takes her own leap of faith and realizes that, after all this time, she might finally be able to have it all.

My Review

I have also read Slightly South of Simple, the first book in the Peachtree Bluff series, and was eagerly awaiting the sequel. I will say that because there are so many characters we follow, it took me a few chapters to get back into the swing of things, remembering about each sister, getting caught up with her life, etc. It also can get a little confusing with multiple generations as well, but after the first few chapters, I felt I had everyone figured out once again and could truly start to enjoy the story. I think this could be read as a stand alone, but I would highly recommend reading the first book prior. Once I was sucked in, I was sucked in. I loved the family dynamics, between the sisters, their mother, and grandmother. There is a lot of emotion packed into this story, and several instances that brought tears to my eyes. I’ll be looking forward to the next book because there are several questions I would love to see answered in that one, and I’m enjoying following this family. I would highly recommend this series!

5 stars