The Kissing Tree: Four Novellas Rooted in Timeless Love

This collection of stories by Regina Jennings, Karen Witemeyer, Amanda Dykes, and Nicole Deese is a treasure. All four stories revolve around an oak tree dubbed the “Kissing Tree” due to the couples who find love and share a kiss under its branches, and who proclaim that love by carving their initials into it. The Kissing Tree becomes a symbol of love for four specific couples over a period of 150 years in a small Texas community. First, we read the story of Bella and Adam in the 1860s. A childhood accident in the tree results in Bella becoming a schoolteacher instead of becoming a seamstress like she dreamed. But when Adam--the boy who had a hand in that accident--returns to town, he claims her heart while inadvertently putting her job on the line again. We follow them as they fight for a future together and find love under the kissing tree. Next, we read of Phoebe and Barnabas in the 1890s, who work together to establish a successful “Kissing Tree Inn” inspired by the landmark. Will conflicting views on how to successfully run the establishment keep them from realizing how the Kissing Tree is bringing them together? We then read the story of WWII pilot Luke and his pen pal Hannah, who is the sister of his fallen comrade and friend. He comes to the small Texas town to make a delivery, but finds purpose and love helping Hannah create a small cottage under the branches of the Kissing Tree. Finally, we read the present-day story of Abby, whose fight to save the Kissing Tree reveals a history of love and loss underneath its branches with Griffin, the arborist hired to consult on the health of the tree. Can the tree and this estranged couple survive? Each author spins a wonderful story that builds to the story of the life of the Kissing Tree. Each author builds upon the other’s story, with gentle nods to people and places established in previous stories. And of course, each author perfectly engrosses the reader in a story of love underneath the Kissing Tree. While the styles of each author vary, these stories work well together. This is an extremely well-coordinated novella, and I enjoyed each story! By the end of the book, I was so invested in the tree and the love it represented. Who knew a book could make you love a tree so much? I highly recommend this well-crafted compilation of stories to any lover of Christian fiction! I received a copy of this book from the publisher to review, but my thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

I have always enjoyed novellas. I love their faster-moving timelines and the swift satisfaction that comes with a shorter story. But it’s not often I love all the stories within a novella collection equally. But with the four lovely novellas in The Kissing Tree, it would be impossible for me to choose a favorite! “Broken Limbs, Mended Hearts” by Regina Jennings was a sweet and playful start to the tradition of The Kissing Tree. I enjoyed the agricultural setting of the story and the close-up look at the innovation of the threshing machine. And the complicated history between Bella and Adam brought them together in a unique and often laugh-out-loud way. And I always love a hero who brings out the best in his girl. This is a perfect introduction to Oak Springs! “Inn for a Surprise” by Karen Witemeyer was a charming story all about romance--in the way of cherub wallpaper, bright pink paint, and an inn designed for couples in love. The Kissing Tree Inn is the whimsical dream of Phoebe Woodward, to create a romantic getaway centered around the tradition of the Kissing Tree. But all of her pink, frilly, and cupid covered decor comes into question by Barnabas Ackerly and his knack for business. I loved this couple. They are opposites, yet they suited each other well. Even when they were sparing verbally, they were kind and respectful to each other, and the development of their relationship from strictly business to possibly more kept a smile on my face the entire time. You will enjoy your visit to Inn of Smooching Shrubbery, as Barnabas would call it! “From Roots to Sky” by Amanda Dykes took a more serious turn in the novella collection, but I loved the story just the same. It follows Luke Hampstead on his journey back to civilian life after serving as an airman in WWII. He had exchanged letters with his buddy’s sister, Hannah, after his friend was killed in action and wanted to meet her in person. Hannah and Luke’s story is rich in pain and grief as much as it is in hope and love. I loved the cottage they worked on together that incorporated sketches Hannah had received from her brother and Luke during the war. It was just as quirky and unique as Hannah herself. This is a beautiful story of healing and finding a sense of normalcy after a tragedy. “Heartwood” by Nicole Deese is the contemporary novella in the collection, and despite being a (mostly) historical fiction fan--I LOVED this story. Abby and Griff have a second chance at romance, but grief, fear, and regrets from their last conversation continue to keep them apart. But when they are forced to work together to save The Kissing Tree from being destroyed, the reasons they loved each other resurface. Abby and Griff’s story also deals with deep-rooted grief, but Abby’s journey is touching and will make you reach for a tissue a time or two. Heartwood was the perfect conclusion to the novella collection, which was a wonderful representation of many forms of love. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Regina's story is funny and sweet. Bella and Adam were fun characters full of spunk and stubbornness. The bet between Adam and Bella’s father made for an interesting element as well. Cute romance and a good start to the collection of stories. Karen’s story was charming as always. Her stories have a perfect blend of humor and romance and Barnabas and Phoebe’s story has both. It was an adorable story. Amanda’s story was great, I love World War 2 stories and this one is set during it so that alone made me enjoy it...but Luke and Hannah made me love it even more. Restoring the house was a fun part of the story too. I loved Nicole’s story! My favorite part was the letter written by someone affected by the Kissing Tree, it brought tears to my eyes. Abby and Griffin were fun characters and easy to root for them to find their happily ever after. All in all, this is a superb collection from some of the best authors in Christian Fiction. I can’t even pick a favorite story because I loved each and every one of them. I highly recommend this collection. I received this book from the author and wasn’t required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my honest opinion.