This book is an absolute gem. The author masterfully balances the heaviness of loss with the hope of rebuilding, both the town and their lives. Teddy’s determination to restore her mother’s candy store is inspiring, and Jack’s gentle strength makes him such a compelling character. Their connection is natural, blossoming through shared purpose and quiet moments that feel so real. The way the community bands together to save the habitat of the endangered whooping cranes is a lovely metaphor for the characters’ own recovery, and it just adds another layer to this already heart-tugging story. Overall, it’s tender, uplifting, and filled with the kind of quiet strength that remains etched in your mind.

I just finished a great book. Love is for the Birds by Diane Ownes Prettyman is out this fall. Pick it up!

Love is For the Birds by Diane Owens Prettyman is a touching story set on Bird Isle, blending themes of family, friendship, and romance. Teddy Wainsworth returns to her hurricane-devastated hometown, grappling with the loss of her mother and the destruction of her mother’s candy store. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt, Teddy finds unexpected solace in Jack Shaughness, a widower and restaurant owner, who arrives on the island to help in the hurricane recovery efforts.

Their growing friendship, fueled by the shared experience of rebuilding their community, quickly blossoms into a romance. Despite the accelerated pace of their relationship, it is a heartwarming journey. One of the standout elements of the book is its emphasis on bird conservation, particularly the restoration of the Aransas Wildlife Refuge for the annual whooping crane migration, adding depth and educational value to the story.

However, Jack’s hidden secret creates tension, testing their newfound connection. The novel explores whether Teddy can overcome this challenge, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the storyline. The depiction of community resilience and environmental restoration forms the foundation of this heartfelt and hopeful romance.