This is a novel by Heather Webber that I’d classify as fantasy/women’s fiction. I’ll be looking for more from this author because I’m enjoying this book.
The main heroine in this book has moved to a tiny town in the Alabama mountains to see to her beloved grandmother’s effects after her death. One of the stipulations in the will is that she run the aforementioned cafe for two months before everything becomes hers. She learns about the magical blackbirds who sing from the mulberry trees in her backyard every night from 1:00 to 2:00 am, and about how the mulberries, when harvested properly, can induce dreams from lost loved ones. But her own dream–well, more of a promise–was to study medicine and become a doctor. Will she follow her heart and settle down in the quirky town that has won her love or abide by her promise and leave for medical school as soon as the property is properly hers? I haven’t finished the book yet, so I’m not certain, but I know which choice I hope she makes.
The characters in this book are realistic and logical, with enough quirks to make you like them more. I’m enjoying the side characters too: the boisterous elderly woman who is everyone’s grandmother, the shy nature girl who sells them eggs and berries, the cook and his wife who really run the cafe, and of course, the love interests. If you like what I call “magical women’s fiction” then pick up a copy of this book (and maybe others by Heather Webber).
