The Kissing Tree contains FOUR novellas all set in the Texas town of Oak Springs.

Broken Limbs, Mended Hearts by Regina Jennings opens the collection in 1868. Our heroine, Bella Eden, is DESPERATE for her first kiss. But things don't go according to her plan--God's plan, perhaps, but not her own. The guy she thought was the 'perfect one' to kiss--well, he turned out to be seeing so much of her because he wanted A PUPPY from her farm. But the absolute worst part was that her desperate plea for a kiss was witnessed by another--leading to much pain physical, mental, and emotional. (Long story, but the name of the story is BROKEN LIMBS....) Could the one who "broke" her dreams mend her heart years later????? (No, I'm not talking about PUPPY GUY). Adam Fisher, our hero, has a chance to redeem all...will the Kissing Tree work its magic?

Inn for a Surprise by Karen Witemeyer opens in 1891. Barnabas Ackerby is sent to help his boss's daughter, Phoebe Woodward, open The Kissing Tree Inn. The longer these two work side by side to make her dream happen, the more he realizes that her dream is quickly becoming his as well. Will the tree be getting a NEW set of initials?

From Roots to Sky by Amanda Dykes opens in 1944/45. Luke Hampstead has been corresponding with his friend's sister, Hannah. Well, corresponding may be a little too strong a word. He--like Danny before him--has been sending his sketches to Hannah. It was his friend's (dying) wish that he keep up the 'friendship' with Hannah. Now that the war is over, Luke has gone to her hometown of Oak Springs to meet her and to share his memories of Danny. The two quickly become friends--but could there be more than friendship that develops? Like Inn for A Surprise, this one features some construction work and designing!

Heartwood by Nicole Deese opens, I suppose, in contemporary times. No year is given--but let's assume pre-Covid 2018 or 2019. If I'm being honest, which I always strive to be, I wish this one didn't exist. Not because I hate the characters--I don't--but because the DIRECTION or TURN this one took. I feel like throwing a temper tantrum like D.W. and going SANTA, HOW COULD YOU???? It was a solid romance between the hero and heroine--two hearts reuniting after a bad break up.

I really enjoyed three of the four stories. The fourth story wasn't poorly written, just TRAGIC. My absolute favorite story was INN FOR A SURPRISE by Karen Witemeyer. It was probably this story that hooked me to the character of the KISSING TREE. The two middle stories were definitely the heart and soul of this one.

The Kissing Tree is a sweet collection of Christian fiction stories spaced out in various time periods from the 1800s to modern times. This collection of novellas is filled with sweet tales of romance, faith, overcoming hardship, and is based on the story of one rather unique and large tree--the Kissing Tree. The Kissing Tree is an oak tree where couples across the years carve their initials into the bark leaving a permanent testament of their love and a sweet glimpse into the town's history.
This collection of four novellas is authored by Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Amanda Dykes, and Nicole Deese. Overall, I was impressed by how the four separate works were tied together so well by each author, as they incorporated similar themes, deep characters, as well as a sense of history and context throughout the book as each story built on the previous one. I am not often one drawn to a collection of novellas with the often disjointed storylines, but I was impressed by this collection. I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy this collection of novellas as much as I did!
The first novella of this collection, Broken Limbs, Mended Fences is authored by Regina Jennings and is a sweet tale of Bella, a small-town teacher, whose life is quickly upended by her past, as Adam, a traveling salesman of a new invention innocently questions her ability to teach. When Bella's job is put on the line and is aligned with the success or failure of her former friend Adam's new business, what is she to do? Should she give up her dreams so that Adam can fulfill his? Or will they find some kind of compromise?
I think my favorite of this entire collection was the second novella in The Kissing Tree, Karen Witemeyer's Inn for a Surprise. I am a huge fan of Ms. Witemeyer, but I absolutely loved this heartwarming, comical, yet sweet short tale of two very stubborn people working together on a project for two different reasons. Phoebe Woodward loves romance and dreams of making a somewhat neglected inn, close to the locally famous Kissing Tree, into a dreamy, fairytale-like romantic retreat for married couples. Even though she doesn't have the joys of romance in her life, Phoebe is content to be a spinster if she can help others to find joy in their lives.
Phoebe's father sends a property manager to help her with the business aspects of the inn, but Phoebe is stubbornly opposed to the practical insights of her new partner, Barnabas whose ideas for the inn oppose her every dream. Can the two stubborn and determined individuals work together to forge a successful and romantic business in the inn? Will they be able to blend their own hearts together? This story is full of humor, romance, heartbreak, and faith. I thoroughly enjoyed it an know that you will as well. I only wish is could have been longer!
The third novella From Roots to Sky was written by Amanda Dykes. From Roots to Sky is the story of Luke, a young navy pilot in World War II who has a promise to fulfill. Luke Hampstead had written letters to Hannah his friend's sister after his friend had died in the war, but one particular letter had kept him alive. He is on a journey to thank her, but ends up staying in Texas for longer than he expects due to his surprising interest in his fallen comrade's sister . Will he be able to fulfill his dreams of flying again? Can he leave Texas for his future in New York? Will Luke and Hannah be able to find happiness?
The fourth and final novella in this collection is Heartwood by Nicole Deese. This is set in modern times and is the finale for the kissing tree. The groundskeeper of the historic inn (a.k.a the one worked on in novella 2), Abby Brookshire is devastated to hear that the historic tree that she has devoted her life's work to protect may be removed. What makes the bad news even worse, is that Griffin, the man her heart has tried to get over for the last few years, has come back to town and seems to be the only one willing to work together with her to preserve the historical legacy of the kissing tree. Can Abby work together with Griffin without her heart becoming hardened? Will they be able to be friends still? Can they move on from the past? What will become of the historic tree?
Disclaimer: Bethany House Publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

How could you not love this wonderful collection when these stories are written by such outstanding authors? This book had everything I hoped it would: Well written, intriguing storylines and characters that drew me into their stories. I don’t think I can pick a favorite, because they are all so good. Perfect book if you are looking for something entertaining to read, or just want to give a book by theses authors a try. I think once you read this collection, you’ll be looking for more books by each author.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

It was the collection of authors that drew me to this book. Amazing, heartwarming stories of love lost and found. Swoon worthy and heart touching. Beautiful examples of the fact that love never fails. It always wins. From the first to the last story; short, delightful and unforgettable. Nothing delights the heart like love and this collection is a must have with characters one can relate to. Highly recommended to relax and delight ones heart.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.

Bestselling novelist Karen Witemeyer joins award-winning authors Regina Jennings, Amanda Dykes, and Nicole Deese for this Texas-sized romance novella collection. Each of the authors' unique voices is on display in stories where courting couples leave a permanent mark of their love by carving their initials into the same oak's bark.

In Regina Jennings' Broken Limbs, Mended Fences, a small-town teacher has her credentials questioned by a traveling salesman.

In Karen Witemeyer's Inn for a Surprise, two opinionated collaborators with conflicting visions must turn a doomed business venture into a successful romantic retreat.

From Roots to Sky by Amanda Dykes follows a young WWII naval airman who heads to Texas to meet the sister of a lost compatriot.

Heartwood by Nicole Deese is a modern-day romance about the groundskeeper of a historic inn who's reunited with someone from her past while she fights to save a town landmark.

This is a collection of stories centered around a tree. Known at the Kissing Tree. The stories are generational. They all flow one into the other but by different authors. This is a good book to take to the beach or seat in front of a fire on a cold winter day.

I was given this book by Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

The Kissing Tree: Four Novellas Rooted in Timeless Love features stories by Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Amanda Dykes, and Nicole Deese. Creative and endearing, each of the novellas in this collection is thoughtfully written, cleverly connected, and absolutely engaging. All four stories contain well-developed characters, a charming setting, and a generous amount of sweet romance.
 
With novellas that are set in one, rural town in Texas over the span of more than 150 years, this collection will enthrall readers who enjoy stories brimming with history, romance, and small town charm. Under the leafy shade of the same, stalwart oak tree, these novellas reveal unexpected love stories, renewed friendships, surprising struggles, genuine faith, and surprising dreams. Page after page, the gentle faithfulness of the mighty oak tree creates a welcoming space in which hope and love can bloom.

Beautifully written from beginning to end, this lovely book is truly difficult to put down. I was thoroughly captivated by the fictional world these collaborative authors worked together to create. Quickly invested in the plot of each novella, I easily connected to the characters and the themes within each story. The characters' setbacks, successes, motivations, and fears kept me intrigued; while their faithfulness, perseverance, and courage kept me inspired. 

This special collection contains four love stories that are romantic, uplifting, and meaningful. The Kissing Tree is a book that I will undoubtedly enjoy re-reading and sharing with others. I sincerely recommend it to all readers.

*I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and from NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

This book was fairly enjoyable. I liked the writing style of some authors more than others. I enjoyed the look at the “kissing tree” through several generations.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

3-1/2 stars

I really enjoyed The Kissing Tree. I knew I would like the stories by Regina Jennings and Karen Witemyer as they are among my favorite authors. Amanda Dykes and Nicole Deese are new to me, but I will definitely be looking for more books by them in the future. The main character in all four stories is an old oak tree that has seen a lot of the romantic history of the town of Oak Springs Texas. Each of the authors has penned a tale relevant to a different time period., sharing the romances of four different couples. All of the plots were engaging and I loved the characters. So grab a pot of tea and a cozy chair. You will want to settle in for four unique tales of love beneath The Kissing Tree!

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

The Kissing Tree is a collection of four novellas, each written by a different author: Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Amanda Dykes, and Nicole Deese. All four stories are centered around a timeless old oak tree in the heart of Texas.

First off, if you’ve followed me for long, you know how much I love novellas. Then to have a novella collection that features some of my favorite authors? Well, I knew I would love it. What I wasn’t prepared for was just how strongly those stories wove their way right into my heart.

I’m not sure I quite have words for how potent this collection is. If you have never read a novella collection before, this one will spoil you for all the others. It is funny, lighthearted, romantic, and yet incredibly touching. Who knew an old tree could make a person tear up?

The most important part about reading The Kissing Tree is to read the collection in order. Each story builds on the one before it and ends in a heartbreakingly sweet fashion. This is for sure my favorite novella collection of the year.

---
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

The Kissing Tree is a lovely read of four novellas that progress in time as each story takes place in the same town. And of course the Kissing Tree is a staple in each story.

Now each of these stories is written by different authors and I enjoyed their storytelling. Only one author was new to me. But what I really liked was the continuation of the tree, an inn, and other landmarks that stood for a over a hundred years and how they connected each generation.

Whether it was a failed kissing attempt with the boy you thought was meant for you, a spinster that was overlooked, a couple finding peace after a war, or a love that never stopped loving- these stories wrapped around my heart and brought many a smiles and sighs and helped me escape the world for a little while. All of them hit the right romantic buttons for me.

This was a fun read to traipse through time with. I admit there were a few times that the nostalgia of a previous story got me teary eyed, but I enjoyed seeing how each author worked in tandem with one another. Pick this one up, you won't be sorry.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

Each of these novellas captures your attention with the likable characters, sweet settings, and better than chocolate emotions.

Broken Limbs, Mended Hearts was a delightful story of one broken-hearted schoolteacher coming to terms with someone from her past she'd like to forget. I was taken with this story, excellent writing.

Inn for a Surprise was true to Karen Witemeyer’s panache for intriguing characters, dashes of romance, and more than a few giggles. A very enjoyable read with snappy dialogue, superb.

From Roots to Sky Binds two people together in a most original way, and keeps you turning the pages to find what happens next.

Heartwood Great characters and is full of sweet spaces where romance is shared. Lovely lilting writing which romance readers will enjoy.

Overall, this was a highly entertaining read, and I'd recommend fans of these talented authors add this to their library. It's a keeper!

I received this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post nor write a review.

The four stories are all linked to the town of Oak Springs in Texas and more particularly, an ancient oak tree, that assumes the name, The Kissing Tree, in Regina's first story. All the stories are set in different periods of history and I presume this is a reflection of the respective author's authorial bent. It's very clever how the four authors connect the stories beyond the town and much loved oak tree with various families and names running through them.

I most enjoyed Amanda and Nicole's stories. Not having read Amanda's work before it was a wonderful introduction to her work and I'm sure it won't be long before I read one of her full length novels. This story is beautifully romantic, the injured war hero seeking out the sister of his best mate who had passed in the war.

It was Nicole's story that I found most compelling. The story of dealing with loss, identity and love was very well presented and I found Abby and Griffin the most endearing of couples with their respective struggles, longings and integrity.

If you're after something light and short (the four stories are between 80 and 100 pages each in length) that will put a smile on your face, then this compilation is a good one to try.

I received an early ebook copy from Bethany House via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.

The Kissing Tree is a wonderful collection of romantic novellas. Each tale chronicles a love story and takes us through the lifespan of a glorious oak tree. They all cover a different era, and above all, each is written by a different author, all at the top of their game.

Regina Jennings sets the stage with the tale of a local school teacher whose livelihood is threatened by the man who ruined her first career choice. However, could his return mean the start of a whole new life?

Next we have another historical romance powerhouse, and Karen Witemeyer doesn’t disappoint. She delivers two business partners who have very different ideas about what it takes to create the perfect romantic getaway. Can building this inn of dreams lead to their own being fulfilled?

Amanda Dykes, debut novel Whose Waves These Are gathered huge critical acclaim. Following the inn’s development, this third story brings us a returning veteran, who seeks the woman who saved his life.

And finally, Nicole Deese, one of my favorite new authors closes the collection with the tree coming full circle. But, there might not be a happy ending unless she can get two heartbroken souls back together.

All in all, this is a lovely collection, of cleverly entwinted stores that’ll bring a smile to any lover of the romance genre.

To read an excerpt or buy a copy of The Kissing Tree, click here…

If you love novellas, check out some great Christmas ones here…

I'm going to say from the gate that this collection of novellas in The Kissing Tree exceeded my expectations! I was honestly surprised at how invested I became in the characters. By the time I reached novella three I was wondering about the characters from novellas one and two. And truth be told, I got a bit emotional as I began in the third one! By novella four, I wanted to carve initials into the tree!

We're introduced to the kissing tree in book one with Bella and Adam. I have to admit, one of my favorite tropes is when the characters have known each other in younger years. This story really sets us up for becoming fond of the story surrounding the tree, and let me tell you, Regina certainly does that! I became invested in the lives of those who are in the town and the tree.

The entire length of the book, you're given the chance to reflect on life in general. How it goes on around you, how it changes over the years, and really what your own legacy will be. I found myself very introspective while reading each novella.

Book two had me giggling so much! I've been a long time Karen Witemeyer fan and this might be one of my favorites! And a novella no less. Go figure. While I'm not typically a fan of people falling for each other "too soon", if it's well written, it works like a charm and it certainly did this time. Pheobe has met her match with Barnabas. Oh my goodness, the ways he refers to the Inn are hysterical! Probably my favorite part of this whole story!

Now, if you're into nostalgia, Amanda Dykes' story is for you! This one is on the deeper side and will pluck at your heartstrings! I loved how she weaves the letter and drawings from Luke and Danny into Hannah's world. I love it when I can see myself in a character, and I can definitely see a bit of me in Hannah. This story is sure to give you all the warm fuzzy feelings.

And lastly we have Nicole Deese's story. This one was a difficult one for me because I wasn't ready to leave the legacy of the kissing tree behind. I'd grown so fond of it I grew a bit teary eyed as I started her story. I'm pitiful. I know! This last book has two people coming back together to work together (hopefully) to save the kissing tree. Griffin and Abby are opposite sides of the same coin. I love how Nicole describes that what they do for careers may seem to work against each other, but actually work in tandem. As a gardener (would-be landscaper) I can actually appreciate what they both do. There's definitely humor in the story as well as pain and loss. Actually a lot of loss, and for more than just the main characters. It was a good, heartfelt ending to a wonderful collection of stories. I could honestly handle a lot more just like this one!

I think what I loved most about this book was each Novella had a unique story yet was intertwined around The Kissing Tree! Each author had a different style of writing and they were all so engaging. I have only read books by Karen Witemeyer so I’m excited to seek out books by the other three authors.

This book will be high on my recommendation list!

Broken Limbs, Mended Hearts by Regina Jennings:

The Kissing Tree is a huge oak tree that many loves have carved their names into over the years. Bella is hoping to have her name carved into the tree along with getting her first kiss. Unfortunately Adam is witness to the most embarrassing moment of Bella's life. So starts the legacy of The Kissing Tree. The first story was sweet and I really enjoyed it. I totally could picture this huge old oak since when I was a child I used to play under such oaks! They are gorgeous and fun to climb and hide out under. Loved Adam and Bella's story!



Inn For A Surprise by Karen Witemeyer:

When Barnabas comes to help the boss' daughter get her Inn ready for customers he is surprised by Phoebe's flamboyant tastes in colors and backgrounds. The Inn is near The Kissing Tree so of course it is called Kissing Tree Inn. Barnabas is there to help temper some of Phoebe's tastes and to help make the Inn the best success.



From Roots to Sky by Amanda Dykes:

Having lost his best friend in WWII and been wounded in that same war, Luke has come to visit his best friends sister Hannah. Luke and Hannah had corresponded after her brother, Luke's best friend, died. Now Luke has come home to meet the woman who's letters helped him get through when he thought he was going to die. Luke helps Hannah build a groundskeepers cottage for The Kissing Tree Inn.



Heartwood by Nicole Deese:

Abby is the groundskeeper for The Kissing Tree Inn. Griffin is an arborist that the Inn has hired to determine if the Kissing Tree is in need of being cut down. Abby refuses to believe that the old oak is dying and Griffin is there to do what he can to save the tree.



Such sweet love stories each one. I loved how each one connected somehow with the tree and were set in different times of history. A sweet compilation of short stories!

You will find four enchanting novellas in The Kissing Tree and I think you'll enjoy them as much as I did. I always read everything by Karen Witemeyer and Regina Jennings but Amanda Dykes and Nicole Deese were new to me. Regina's story of Phoebe and Barnabas was my favorite of the four. It was great fun watching this couple decorate the inn.

I loved the flow from one story to the next. These 4 ladies did a great job telling the story of one town in Texas and the tree it became famous for.

If you like Christian historical fiction and need something short and sweet to read this would be perfect for you.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

This is a delightful collection of stories that are centered around a tree where couples etched their initials in hopes of happily ever after. I loved the idea and each of the stories flowed together easily keeping me reading.

This is the second novella collection I've read this fall and I love them because they're like a short story I can finish in an afternoon.

Each of these authors wrote fun and engaging stories tying each one together. I was sad to see them come to an end.

I enjoy each of these author's work individually so having them together in a collection was a delight.

I highly recommend this collection!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

What a star studded cast of authors that came together to produce this novella collection. Two of the authors are ones that were new to me this year that I highly enjoyed. Those authors were among the main reasons I jumped at a chance to read this book. The other two I hadn't read anything by before jumping into The Kissing Tree but had seen highly promoted all over social media. So I decided to give it a try and I was not disappointed.

Throughout The Kissing Tree, you will follow the stories of four couples that take place in Oak Springs, Texas. The titular Kissing Tree becomes town legend. You start with Adam and Bella's story in the 1860s. Adam was witness to one of Bella's most embarrassing life moments as a teenager and the one she blames for an injury that ruined her chances of being a seamstress and having to replan her life. He's just trying to make a living with a new agricultural venture when their lives coming crashing together.

Next, a little over 20 years later, comes the story of Phoebe and Barnabas. The Kissing Tree, where Adam and Bella had carved their initials, has become a town legend as others have joined in the tradition. Phoebe wishes to open an inn near the Kissing Tree to set up a romantic couples getaway. Barnabas, who works for her father, thinks it is a ridiculous venture but is tasked by Phoebe's father to help make it successful. Will their initials end up on the tree too?

Then we jump ahead to the time period of World War II in the 1940s with Hannah and Luke. Hannah's brother fought alongside Luke in the war, but unfortunately he never made it home. After he passes, Hannah and Luke become pen pals. After he is injured and things he is going to die, Luke writes a letter to Hannah which he feels honestly saved his life. After he's rehabilitated, he immediately goes to see Hannah and gets sucked into the tornado that is Hannah Garland.

Finally, you wrap up the story of Abby and Griffin in a contemporary setting. These two have history. They were friends for a long time until they finally became more. Unfortunately, after the death of Abby's father, who was dearly loved by Griffin too, she pushes. The Kissing Tree Inn is thriving again but the Kissing Tree itself is in danger of removal. Can they save the tree and get a second chance at their own love story?

Each story is related in some way either by being friends of the previous story's characters or being from a family mentioned in one of the other stories or being descendents of previously mentioned characters. Overall I think all the stories flowed together very well. I will say that I did enjoy some stories over others, but not to such a degree that some parts felt wonderful while others felt terrible. Even though these were shorter novellas, for the most part I didn't feel like the stories were rushed.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I'm leaving an honest and voluntary review.

When I do collections like this, I like to do a review of each individual novella and then the collection as a whole.

To start with, this was the first book by Regina Jennings that I have read and I was impressed so much that I went ahead and preordered her next book, Courting Misfortune, that releases at the end of November. Jennings writing style roped me in from the very beginning and was a wonderful start to the collection. I loved the character development and the way the plot moves along.

Next was Karen Witemeyer’s novella, and it was also the first book I had read by her. I loved the way Witemeyer continued the story with little connections back to Jennings previous novella. The plot and the characters continued to build in a wonderful, great paced way.

After that was Amanda Dykes novella, and I loved how the characters moved through their pain in this part of the series. Dykes pays attention to little details in everything she writes which makes it easy to get wrapped up in her books along the way.

Finally, the collection wrapped up with Nicole Deese’s novella. It was an extremely well thought ending in a contemporary setting to the Kissing Tree collection. Deese is one of the few contemporary writers that I adore (I just gravitate towards historical more, but Deese makes me love contemporary stories!).

This collection as a whole is a wonderful story to read. It moves through the ages seamlessly with each author writing their own timeline of a perfect story. While each novella can stand alone, I enjoyed seeking out family connections throughout, and I am happy to have been able to read this collection!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, but I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.