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Blessings #6
For Your Love
NAACP nominee and bestselling author Beverly Jenkins returns to Henry Adams, Kansas—an unforgettable place that anyone would want to call home—with a story of family, friends, and the powerful forces from our past that can irrevocably shape our future.
Mayor Trent July and his wife Lily are enjoying life as newlyweds and embracing the challenges and joys that come with being foster parents to two wonderful boys. But being a foster father has inevitably forced him to think about his own birth mother. Raised by his grandmother Tamar—and in many ways the good people of Henry Adams—Trent was blessed with a childhood full of love.
But now he can’t help wondering what happened to the scared teenage girl who handed him over to Tamar. And questions that he’s never voiced are now begging to be answered: Who was she? Is she still alive? Why didn’t she want him?
Trent has always believed no good comes from dwelling on the past, especially when you have a loving family, a strong community, and folks who depend on him. But when the past comes to Henry Adams and Trent has no choice but to face it—and the woman who left him behind. The truth will shake his very being and everything he thought he knew about life, love, and the bonds that hold families together…yet can also tear them apart.
Mayor Trent July and his wife Lily are enjoying life as newlyweds and embracing the challenges and joys that come with being foster parents to two wonderful boys. But being a foster father has inevitably forced him to think about his own birth mother. Raised by his grandmother Tamar—and in many ways the good people of Henry Adams—Trent was blessed with a childhood full of love.
But now he can’t help wondering what happened to the scared teenage girl who handed him over to Tamar. And questions that he’s never voiced are now begging to be answered: Who was she? Is she still alive? Why didn’t she want him?
Trent has always believed no good comes from dwelling on the past, especially when you have a loving family, a strong community, and folks who depend on him. But when the past comes to Henry Adams and Trent has no choice but to face it—and the woman who left him behind. The truth will shake his very being and everything he thought he knew about life, love, and the bonds that hold families together…yet can also tear them apart.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2015
125 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
About the author
Beverly Jenkins
70 books4,820 followersBeverly Jenkins is the recipient of the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for historical romance.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature, was featured both in the documentary “Love Between the Covers” and on CBS Sunday Morning.
Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance, and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, and NPR. Her critically acclaimed Blessings series has been optioned for film by John Legend’s and Mike Jackson’s production company Get Lifted, and Hollywood and Broadway powerhouse Deborah Martin Chase.
To read more about Beverly and sign up for her newsletter, visit her at www.BeverlyJenkins.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
February 23, 2015
Definitely one of my favorites of the series. I'm so happy that the author chose to inject some new characters and new story lines into the Henry Adams family. I was worried that some of the charm of the Blessings series was wearing off, but this is certainly a great comeback.
Read
June 15, 2020When I said I was going to ration myself on this series, I lied. A lovely instalment with some new characters, and plenty of wildly OTT drama.
September 12, 2016
This is the sixth book in the Blessings series, which follows the residents of Henry Adams, Kansas, a small town originally founded by freed slaves.
I didn’t realize it was part of a series when I picked it up. And once I had it in my hands, I was reluctant to put it aside to go back to book one in the series, so I went ahead and read it. Jenkins gives several clues as to how these people came together, and some of the things that have happened in the past, so I felt I had a reasonably good understanding of the town dynamics.
I liked that things don’t always go smoothly, but that – for the most part – the characters react realistically. And then there’s Astrid Wiggins, a/k/a “Seabiscuit.” She is the stereotypic “bad guy.” More than stereotypic, she is a caricature, a cartoon character, so evil and unreasonable in her hatred and vindictiveness that she’s totally unbelievable.
On the whole, however, it was an enjoyable, quick read. It reminded me of both the Miss Julia series by Ann B Ross, and the Harmony series by Philip Gulley – both of which I love. And now I think I will go back to the first book in this series and learn more about these characters.
I didn’t realize it was part of a series when I picked it up. And once I had it in my hands, I was reluctant to put it aside to go back to book one in the series, so I went ahead and read it. Jenkins gives several clues as to how these people came together, and some of the things that have happened in the past, so I felt I had a reasonably good understanding of the town dynamics.
I liked that things don’t always go smoothly, but that – for the most part – the characters react realistically. And then there’s Astrid Wiggins, a/k/a “Seabiscuit.” She is the stereotypic “bad guy.” More than stereotypic, she is a caricature, a cartoon character, so evil and unreasonable in her hatred and vindictiveness that she’s totally unbelievable.
On the whole, however, it was an enjoyable, quick read. It reminded me of both the Miss Julia series by Ann B Ross, and the Harmony series by Philip Gulley – both of which I love. And now I think I will go back to the first book in this series and learn more about these characters.
June 28, 2020
I love this world so much, I devoured this book in half a day! I wish a place like this town existed, where every person’s life mattered. Definitely worth reading! 4 stars
July 6, 2025
This series just packs soo much heart and laughs. These characters help me escape the crazy world we are currently existing in. Loved how this focused on Trent and Amari and facing/discovering their relationships with their bio Mom.
I was happy at Devon’s progress! Also Bobby and Kiki’s welcome and integration to the community was so sweet. Can’t wait to continue on my vacay in Henry Adams.
I was happy at Devon’s progress! Also Bobby and Kiki’s welcome and integration to the community was so sweet. Can’t wait to continue on my vacay in Henry Adams.
May 6, 2015
Another Wonderful Trip to Henry Adams
Ms. Bev has done it again! With all that's going on in today's world, it was nice to escape for a while to a place where folks look out for each other and only want the best for you. Thanks, Ms. Bev!
In this book, both Trent and Amari both get to meet their birth moms ,with vastly different outcomes. I don't want to give anything away, but just know that one meeting left me happy and smiling from ear to ear, while the other had me in tears on the train (I was headed home when I got to this part; people were looking at me like I was crazy because I was crying, lol). What an emotional scene.
Loved the Kiki/Bobby storyline. I'm glad that they made the move to Henry Adams and were open to all the blessings that were poured on them as a result. So wonderful of Trent to take Bobby under his wing. i have a feeling that Bobby and Kiki (and the twins!) are gonna be as big a blessing to the towN as the town is to them. That scene with Tamar and Kiki's crazy mama had me cracking up! Tamar was time enough for her.
Thanks again for a warm, feel good read!
Ms. Bev has done it again! With all that's going on in today's world, it was nice to escape for a while to a place where folks look out for each other and only want the best for you. Thanks, Ms. Bev!
In this book, both Trent and Amari both get to meet their birth moms ,with vastly different outcomes. I don't want to give anything away, but just know that one meeting left me happy and smiling from ear to ear, while the other had me in tears on the train (I was headed home when I got to this part; people were looking at me like I was crazy because I was crying, lol). What an emotional scene.
Loved the Kiki/Bobby storyline. I'm glad that they made the move to Henry Adams and were open to all the blessings that were poured on them as a result. So wonderful of Trent to take Bobby under his wing. i have a feeling that Bobby and Kiki (and the twins!) are gonna be as big a blessing to the towN as the town is to them. That scene with Tamar and Kiki's crazy mama had me cracking up! Tamar was time enough for her.
Thanks again for a warm, feel good read!
December 14, 2023
This was sweet, and I love the new additions to the town.
While I love these novels, they are a wee-bit heavy on respectability politics, a tad bit strong on xtian themes when I prefer lighter themes, a bit fat phobic, and a bit homophobic, though gay characters exist.
The charm of this wholesome town is perfect in so many ways. I'd move there and see Ms. Bernadine about helping the town be less of all the above. 🥰
While I love these novels, they are a wee-bit heavy on respectability politics, a tad bit strong on xtian themes when I prefer lighter themes, a bit fat phobic, and a bit homophobic, though gay characters exist.
The charm of this wholesome town is perfect in so many ways. I'd move there and see Ms. Bernadine about helping the town be less of all the above. 🥰
May 25, 2024
Beverly Jenkins is good 🤷🏾♀️
Tears 😭
Life just doing what life does but there’s always hope and good people.
This one was another foray into the July’s.
Astrid needs to locked up.
I would’ve put Diane out!
Forgiveness is only for people who deserve forgiveness. The same goes for Olive branches😒
Tears 😭
Life just doing what life does but there’s always hope and good people.
This one was another foray into the July’s.
Astrid needs to locked up.
I would’ve put Diane out!
Forgiveness is only for people who deserve forgiveness. The same goes for Olive branches😒
October 17, 2020
I love how this town is growning, love how all the residents are so welcoming to Bobby and Kiki. I really loved seeing things from Bobby's view, he wasn't sure about the town, but slowly he saw that everyone was serious and Bobby found a place that would teach him how to be a better man.
The battle between Henry Adams and Franklin really kicked into high gear in this one. I liked how Bernadine reacted and welcomed those that needed help and how things were resolved at the end.
I really felt for Amari in this one. The one thing he wanted he got and it didn't end in a good way at all. But I loved how Trent and Lily were there for him, helping him process everything.
Trent got a big surprise in this one too and it couldn't have turned out better. I loved that everyone welcomed more family to the extended Henry Adams crew!
The battle between Henry Adams and Franklin really kicked into high gear in this one. I liked how Bernadine reacted and welcomed those that needed help and how things were resolved at the end.
I really felt for Amari in this one. The one thing he wanted he got and it didn't end in a good way at all. But I loved how Trent and Lily were there for him, helping him process everything.
Trent got a big surprise in this one too and it couldn't have turned out better. I loved that everyone welcomed more family to the extended Henry Adams crew!
May 6, 2015
I gotta say-I love the Henry Adams people and places in the Blessings novels. So much happens and while it's no one's sugar coated Candyland, it is a place I'd love to live. Never a dull moment.
Thank you Beverly for creating a happy place where we can all go.
And I'd be more than happy to put my hat in the ring for Librarian too.
Thank you Beverly for creating a happy place where we can all go.
And I'd be more than happy to put my hat in the ring for Librarian too.
December 16, 2024
Imagine a contemporary small, rural town filled with loving, caring people. Imagine a town with little, if any, unemployment. Imagine a town where everyone works together for the betterment of that town and its inhabitants. Now imagine this town was founded by Black Americans in the mid-1800s and that multiple generations of descendants of the founding families have continued to reside there and raise their families. This mythic town is the town of Henry Adams, Kansas and is the setting for the Blessings series of stories by Beverly Jenkins. For Your Love isn't just the story of this town or one family, but multiple families and their search for more.
The first person we're introduced to is Rita Lynn Babcock in California and the only thing we know is that she's received a letter from her deceased mother revealing a shocking secret from her past. Next we're introduced to Trent July. His family is one of the founding families of Henry Adams. Trent is on his third marriage and has two adopted sons, Amari and Devon. Trent's father, Malachi July, is a trained veterinarian and owner/operator of the Dog and Cow restaurant in town. Trent is a trained architectural engineer and is currently working as the mayor of Henry Adams. Trent's only regret in life is that he doesn't know his birth mother. Just when you think you know where this story is going, the reader is whisked to Dallas, Texas and introduced to nineteen-year-old Bobby Douglas, his nineteen-year-old girlfriend Kelly "Kiki" Page, and their eleven-month-old twins, Tiara and Bobby Jr. Bobby and Kelley are struggling to provide for their young family when they are asked to relocate to Henry Adams, Kansas. What follows is a story of a town offering a foundation to a young family, affording them respite from abject poverty and the chance to be a part of something bigger.
Over the course of this story, Trent reconnects with his birth-mother, Rita. And Bobby and Kelly realize that there are good people willing to offer a helping hand to those in need. Needless to say there is a lot more going on than just the story of Trent, Rita, Bobby, and Kelly. The reader is introduced to the older generation of Henry Adams, as well as the youngsters (trust me when I say you'll want to read about Devon and his swagalicious wardrobe). Are there problems to be faced in Henry Adams? Of course there are, and one of the bigger problems is dealing with a loss of support services from a neighboring town. Throughout all the ups-and-downs, this tiny community bands together to ensure that no one is fighting a battle alone.
For Your Love is actually the first story I've read by Ms. Jenkins. At first, I was a little lost since there was obviously quite a bit of backstory to this town and its residents that I didn't know. However, once I got into the story it didn't really seem to matter about what came before (although I'm adding all of the previous titles in this series to my TBR list just so I can catch up). Ms. Jenkins has crafted a wonderful story about a town and community anyone would want to live in. Not all of the people in this town are wealthy financially, but they have a wealth of friendship, love, and support that can't be measured. There's family drama, old jealousies and hurts, greed and avarice, and more. If you enjoy stories featuring families and communities dealing with realistic problems, then you'll want to add this HEA (happy/hopeful-ever-after) story to your TBR list. I look forward to catching up on the Blessings series and reading more from Ms. Jenkins in the future.
This review originally posted on 6/9/2015 at: http://www.thebookdivasreads.com/2015....
The first person we're introduced to is Rita Lynn Babcock in California and the only thing we know is that she's received a letter from her deceased mother revealing a shocking secret from her past. Next we're introduced to Trent July. His family is one of the founding families of Henry Adams. Trent is on his third marriage and has two adopted sons, Amari and Devon. Trent's father, Malachi July, is a trained veterinarian and owner/operator of the Dog and Cow restaurant in town. Trent is a trained architectural engineer and is currently working as the mayor of Henry Adams. Trent's only regret in life is that he doesn't know his birth mother. Just when you think you know where this story is going, the reader is whisked to Dallas, Texas and introduced to nineteen-year-old Bobby Douglas, his nineteen-year-old girlfriend Kelly "Kiki" Page, and their eleven-month-old twins, Tiara and Bobby Jr. Bobby and Kelley are struggling to provide for their young family when they are asked to relocate to Henry Adams, Kansas. What follows is a story of a town offering a foundation to a young family, affording them respite from abject poverty and the chance to be a part of something bigger.
Over the course of this story, Trent reconnects with his birth-mother, Rita. And Bobby and Kelly realize that there are good people willing to offer a helping hand to those in need. Needless to say there is a lot more going on than just the story of Trent, Rita, Bobby, and Kelly. The reader is introduced to the older generation of Henry Adams, as well as the youngsters (trust me when I say you'll want to read about Devon and his swagalicious wardrobe). Are there problems to be faced in Henry Adams? Of course there are, and one of the bigger problems is dealing with a loss of support services from a neighboring town. Throughout all the ups-and-downs, this tiny community bands together to ensure that no one is fighting a battle alone.
For Your Love is actually the first story I've read by Ms. Jenkins. At first, I was a little lost since there was obviously quite a bit of backstory to this town and its residents that I didn't know. However, once I got into the story it didn't really seem to matter about what came before (although I'm adding all of the previous titles in this series to my TBR list just so I can catch up). Ms. Jenkins has crafted a wonderful story about a town and community anyone would want to live in. Not all of the people in this town are wealthy financially, but they have a wealth of friendship, love, and support that can't be measured. There's family drama, old jealousies and hurts, greed and avarice, and more. If you enjoy stories featuring families and communities dealing with realistic problems, then you'll want to add this HEA (happy/hopeful-ever-after) story to your TBR list. I look forward to catching up on the Blessings series and reading more from Ms. Jenkins in the future.
This review originally posted on 6/9/2015 at: http://www.thebookdivasreads.com/2015....
June 17, 2015
Beverly Beverly Beverly, you have captured my heart and soul with For Your Love (Book 6 in the Blessings Series). Beverly takes us back to the fictional town of Henry Adams, Kansas (which it should be called Blessings or Hope, Kansas). Henry Adams is like coming home to your grandmothers homemade apple pie, just warm and sweet. This novel was an emotional read for me, love found between an adult man (Trent July) and his mother (Rita Babcock), whom he thought didn’t want him and a love that will probably never be between a young boy/man whose mother didn’t want him, but has found love with his adoptive parents, grandparents and great grandmother and the whole town of Henry Adams. Even though Henry Adams is a fictional town, it will remind you that there are some caring people in the world still; that give without wanting anything in return. I have to admit that this was my first time reading one of the Blessings series book and I will go back and read the other five.
May 4, 2015
I anticipate going into Henry Adams. The world is always turning in Kansas. BJ never fails to give me the suspense, love and angst I look forward to. Finding your mother after never knowing her has joy and pain. I could not imagine. However I saw it as so appropriate for Mother's Day. Can't wait to get answers to many questions she left hanging. I love the Blessings Series.
June 13, 2015
Loved it!
Although it was jammed packed, I wish it was 100 more pages long with more details on Somme episodes..Marie and Rita Lynn. Diane/a. Bobby and Kiki in Dallas. Melody and the Congressman and Amari. Amari and Kyra. Even the Wiggins' trial. I look forward to many more installments.
Although it was jammed packed, I wish it was 100 more pages long with more details on Somme episodes..Marie and Rita Lynn. Diane/a. Bobby and Kiki in Dallas. Melody and the Congressman and Amari. Amari and Kyra. Even the Wiggins' trial. I look forward to many more installments.
July 26, 2015
This is the sixth book of Beverly Jenkins' Blessings series. I have come to love her stories about the fictional town of Henry Adams, Kansas. Each installment introduces new characters who add to complex relationships in the town. In this one, Trent July finally meets his "long lost" mother. I makes for a heart-warming and funny story.
I'll be waiting for the next in the series.
I'll be waiting for the next in the series.
February 24, 2016
I read this book in one day. It was SSOOO good! The residents of Henry Adams are at it again. Love this series and can't wait to see what's coming up next in the series.
May 30, 2015
Another exciting adventure in Henry Adams! I love this series.
April 6, 2015
I loved this book and I very much want to move to Henry Adams!!! They do need a librarian... :)
May 13, 2015
I love this series.
May 10, 2017
I want to live in Henry Adams!
May 15, 2015
Awesome!
Another great addition to the blessings series! Beverly Jenkins pulls you in and makes you feel like a part of the Henry Adams family. I can't wait until the book!
Another great addition to the blessings series! Beverly Jenkins pulls you in and makes you feel like a part of the Henry Adams family. I can't wait until the book!
February 19, 2018
Jenkins is hilarious, her books will make you laugh!....I'm from Detroit and it's N the Water...lol...The Best!
May 12, 2015
The first I have read in this series (although I do have many of the earlier books in the series that I will be reading soon) For Your Love is the sixth book in the Blessings series by Beverly Jenkins.
Set in Henry Adams, Kansas: a town founded in the reconstruction era by African Americans seeking a peaceful place to live. The concept of the town, and the openness and possibilities for all the residents to make a new start in a town that oozes support, community and togetherness. As is true in real life, not everyone has arrived in town with picture perfect lives: thrown away or discounted by society, not knowing one’s history or even struggling with issues of adoption and foster care, Jenkins offers backstories and the effects on the present with an openness that does not gloss over issues, but gives people the opportunity to come to terms with and rise above the difficulties.
Characters are richly detailed and emotionally available; there is a sense of history underlying the current story: secondary characters add details, stories and experiences that range from funny to poignant, and imbue a feeling of connectedness for all the characters, even those that feel so separated. This is a softly hypnotic tale, you arrive for the story of the newly married Mayor, Trent and his new wife and adopted children, and before you realize it, each character you encounter has set up house in your head, breathing and listening or telling their own story.
Jenkins does more than write a book: the skill in plotting arcs, characterization and the carefully placed ebb and flow of tension are all present, emotions run from smiles to tears as the more poignant moments appear to tug at your heart. For Your Love is storytelling at its best: an oral history that is passed from generation to generation, never losing import or emotion, but building and growing as each new generation learns, incorporates and shares the tale themselves.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Set in Henry Adams, Kansas: a town founded in the reconstruction era by African Americans seeking a peaceful place to live. The concept of the town, and the openness and possibilities for all the residents to make a new start in a town that oozes support, community and togetherness. As is true in real life, not everyone has arrived in town with picture perfect lives: thrown away or discounted by society, not knowing one’s history or even struggling with issues of adoption and foster care, Jenkins offers backstories and the effects on the present with an openness that does not gloss over issues, but gives people the opportunity to come to terms with and rise above the difficulties.
Characters are richly detailed and emotionally available; there is a sense of history underlying the current story: secondary characters add details, stories and experiences that range from funny to poignant, and imbue a feeling of connectedness for all the characters, even those that feel so separated. This is a softly hypnotic tale, you arrive for the story of the newly married Mayor, Trent and his new wife and adopted children, and before you realize it, each character you encounter has set up house in your head, breathing and listening or telling their own story.
Jenkins does more than write a book: the skill in plotting arcs, characterization and the carefully placed ebb and flow of tension are all present, emotions run from smiles to tears as the more poignant moments appear to tug at your heart. For Your Love is storytelling at its best: an oral history that is passed from generation to generation, never losing import or emotion, but building and growing as each new generation learns, incorporates and shares the tale themselves.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
May 18, 2015
What a story of celebration of life, love and family! I was totally submerged in the story, and couldn't get enough of this small town and the lively characters living there.
Trent and Lily seems to have the perfect family. Yes, there are ups and downs as in any family unit, but they dealt with all that life gives with lots of love, acceptance, and support for each other.
And so behaves the whole town, that seems to be founded on love, and family values. A town where everyone is taken care of, protected, and accepted as they are. They know all about each others business, and are not shy to step in, and meddle when they think it is necessary. There's not a one secret in town, they know everything there is to know about each other. They celebrate and embrace the different cultures they represent, and are not afraid to ask questions for better understanding.
They seem to have specialized adopting, foster care children, and giving them a loving, stable homes. The heartbreak and tears that came from some of the meetings with the biological parents was touching. The way the whole town was operated was admirable.
Their women are strong, and celebrated, their men are supportive, proud of them, and loving. The bonds of brotherhood in the family are tender and somehow fragile. The growing pains of the children familiar and wistful.
Don't get me wrong, there's drama and trouble in this little town in Kansas as well. And when the high school rivals meet after 45 years, the drama turns out into a bit of a circus, that made me shake my head and laugh.
This story is written with love, respect, and warmth, celebrating life and all that is good in it. It encourages us to be more and give more to others around us. It has heartbreak and tears, but also healing, and smiles. Amazing tale, all around
~ Five Spoons
Trent and Lily seems to have the perfect family. Yes, there are ups and downs as in any family unit, but they dealt with all that life gives with lots of love, acceptance, and support for each other.
And so behaves the whole town, that seems to be founded on love, and family values. A town where everyone is taken care of, protected, and accepted as they are. They know all about each others business, and are not shy to step in, and meddle when they think it is necessary. There's not a one secret in town, they know everything there is to know about each other. They celebrate and embrace the different cultures they represent, and are not afraid to ask questions for better understanding.
They seem to have specialized adopting, foster care children, and giving them a loving, stable homes. The heartbreak and tears that came from some of the meetings with the biological parents was touching. The way the whole town was operated was admirable.
Their women are strong, and celebrated, their men are supportive, proud of them, and loving. The bonds of brotherhood in the family are tender and somehow fragile. The growing pains of the children familiar and wistful.
Don't get me wrong, there's drama and trouble in this little town in Kansas as well. And when the high school rivals meet after 45 years, the drama turns out into a bit of a circus, that made me shake my head and laugh.
This story is written with love, respect, and warmth, celebrating life and all that is good in it. It encourages us to be more and give more to others around us. It has heartbreak and tears, but also healing, and smiles. Amazing tale, all around
~ Five Spoons
June 28, 2015
This latest book in the Blessings series by Beverly Jenkins is the one I didn’t know I needed and the one that I maybe enjoyed the most. So much of these books focus on the newer residents of Henry Adams, Kansas and all the changes that are happening there, that I forget that there are still rich backstories to be told about some of the characters.
Trent July is a descendant of one of the founding families of Henry Adams and he and his high school sweetheart are finally married and raising the two boys that they’ve adopted. Raised by his grandmother Tamar, the town’s matriarch, Trent has always wondered about the birth mother that he never knew, but being surrounded by the love of such a close-knit community helped him not to dwell on it. Now new information about his mother comes forth and shakes up Trent as well as the town.
As always with this series, the town itself is a character itself. Welcoming newcomers and dealing with the envy of surrounding communities continue to test the strength and resilience of Henry Adams and its inhabitants. This is one of those series that you hope will go on forever and ever, and I can’t wait to read the next one.
Trent July is a descendant of one of the founding families of Henry Adams and he and his high school sweetheart are finally married and raising the two boys that they’ve adopted. Raised by his grandmother Tamar, the town’s matriarch, Trent has always wondered about the birth mother that he never knew, but being surrounded by the love of such a close-knit community helped him not to dwell on it. Now new information about his mother comes forth and shakes up Trent as well as the town.
As always with this series, the town itself is a character itself. Welcoming newcomers and dealing with the envy of surrounding communities continue to test the strength and resilience of Henry Adams and its inhabitants. This is one of those series that you hope will go on forever and ever, and I can’t wait to read the next one.
October 18, 2020
In this journey to Henry Adams, Kansas, the Julys were the stars of the show, so it’s no wonder I adored it. We finally got to learn the identity of Trent’s absent mother, and, lo and behold, she never meant to be absent! Their reunion had me getting teary-eyed. The bittersweetness of all those lost years and the happy anticipation of getting to know each other shone through so well. The parallel of Amari’s experience meeting his birth mother made Trent’s meeting his mother look even more rare and precious. I am so glad Amari has Lily as his mama in every way that counts.
Also, Devon is back! So proud of that boy. His charisma is going to take him places. When he and Zoey get to be teenagers, look our Henry Adams.
I really hope Marie can make a comeback as a character. She has cat’s eye glasses, so I very much want her to be a sympathetic character, but she clearly has some shit to work out. So did Devon, though, and he managed it. If I’m learning anything about Henry Adams, it’s that it is nigh impossible to wallow and fester when surrounded by such a loving and kind community. It really is the dream.
Also, Devon is back! So proud of that boy. His charisma is going to take him places. When he and Zoey get to be teenagers, look our Henry Adams.
I really hope Marie can make a comeback as a character. She has cat’s eye glasses, so I very much want her to be a sympathetic character, but she clearly has some shit to work out. So did Devon, though, and he managed it. If I’m learning anything about Henry Adams, it’s that it is nigh impossible to wallow and fester when surrounded by such a loving and kind community. It really is the dream.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2015
This is a heartwarming story of a woman- who after a painful divorce - used her acquired wealth to save a community. Other idealistically wonderful human relation topics are presented.
Young Bobby, Kiki and the twins were compelled to move to Henry Adams, Kansas by the encouragement of a young woman who stayed with them for a short while. They had no idea what they were going to experience when they agreed to move there. What they encountered was far beyond their wildest dream! This was no ordinary town.
Join their adventures as well as become enthralled with other interesting characters in this very small town. Also, experience the drama that unfolds from a nearby community. You will not believe it!
We could all learn lessons from this small town of people.
The characters are very believable and the situations are very picturesque. There is some "rough" language but no profanity or profoundly crude words. There are no sexual situations so can easily be read by YA as well as adults.
The Title and Book Cover are both very appropriate.
Young Bobby, Kiki and the twins were compelled to move to Henry Adams, Kansas by the encouragement of a young woman who stayed with them for a short while. They had no idea what they were going to experience when they agreed to move there. What they encountered was far beyond their wildest dream! This was no ordinary town.
Join their adventures as well as become enthralled with other interesting characters in this very small town. Also, experience the drama that unfolds from a nearby community. You will not believe it!
We could all learn lessons from this small town of people.
The characters are very believable and the situations are very picturesque. There is some "rough" language but no profanity or profoundly crude words. There are no sexual situations so can easily be read by YA as well as adults.
The Title and Book Cover are both very appropriate.
December 4, 2015
I have been reading the “Blessing” series since the first book and I encourage you to start at the beginning of the series; it picks up from where the last book left off. I really love this book series. Jenkins keeps your interest with a wonderful story line, humor and wit in the ‘Blessings’ series and you will want to keep turning the pages to find out what is going to happen next to these well-developed characters that touch the heart in Henry Adams, Kansas.
Henry Adams is the fictional town founded by Black people in the 1870’s. But, Jenkins is always giving a history lesson with background information we can research and read for ourselves. The characters are well developed, strong positive characters with lots of love and the plots keep you interested. This equal’s excellent reading.
I look forward to the next book about Henry Adams, Kansas. I get excited every time I learn a new book is coming out. I hope Beverly Jenkins continues to write about these characters. I am never disappointed with any of her novels. I look forward to the next installment!
Henry Adams is the fictional town founded by Black people in the 1870’s. But, Jenkins is always giving a history lesson with background information we can research and read for ourselves. The characters are well developed, strong positive characters with lots of love and the plots keep you interested. This equal’s excellent reading.
I look forward to the next book about Henry Adams, Kansas. I get excited every time I learn a new book is coming out. I hope Beverly Jenkins continues to write about these characters. I am never disappointed with any of her novels. I look forward to the next installment!
July 1, 2017
We're back to Henry Adams with our cast of regulars as well as some new additions. Astrid Franklin, the mayor from the next town over, is still causing problems. Crystal's friends Bobby and Kiki have moved to town with their twin babies and are adjusting to living in a place where people really care about them. Bobby, an ex gang-banger, is having an exceptionally hard time. Also having a hard time, Devon, the young man who thought he was a preacher. He is starting to realize that a holier-than-thou attitude might not be the way to make friends and influence people. And Mayor Trent? The mother he has never met is suddenly back in his life, just in time for the holidays.
Jenkins writing is deceptively simple but she creates characters that you really care about. It might be possible to start the series with this book but I certainly don't think it would be as pleasurable since getting to know the characters as the series moves along is most of the fun.
Jenkins writing is deceptively simple but she creates characters that you really care about. It might be possible to start the series with this book but I certainly don't think it would be as pleasurable since getting to know the characters as the series moves along is most of the fun.
June 17, 2015
I absolutely LOVED this new book in the series! Ms. Jenkins was able to intertwine several isues of forgiveness, abandoment, starting over with a past, how making an effort can change someone's life, etc and sprinkling it with humor. So many times I bust out laughing and everyone looked at me like what is she reading? Especially my younger daughter who is an avid reader like me. I caught her giggling too. I was so engrossed I didn't realize it. This has got to be my favorite so far in the series. I could also see so many spin-offs within the story that Ms. Jenkins could use. Great job and I look forward to more from the town of Henry Adams.This is one of my favorite reading series.
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