One Fine Day by Carrie Padgett is the first in a new series that returns readers to Hearts Bend. You’ll be familiar with Hearts Bend if you’ve read Rachel Hauck’s series set in this quaint town. Hauck is the mentor for several authors who are part of the wonderful Sunrise Publishing program where well-established authors mentor up-and-coming authors.

What I Liked About One Fine Day

First, I loved the characters right from the start. Chloe Beason LaRue returns to Hearts Bend to take care of her sick mother and to recover from a tragic loss. Her story tugged at my heart from start to finish. Sam Hardy is the hunky pro quarterback, who has chased all the trappings of fame and fortune and found them wanting. Sam owns his mistakes and is a better person for it. That speaks boldly about taking responsibility for our actions. The secondary characters are charming and add a good deal of humor.

Second, one of my favorite leading men makes an appearance in One Fine Day. If you’ve read The Memory House, you’ll remember Bruno Endicott, sports agent extraordinaire. I enjoy catching up with my favorite characters and this was such a nice surprise. 

Thirdly, I shed a few tears over Jean-Marc. “Her beloved Jean-Marc had planned it all. Their perfect life.” I may need a Kleenex just writing that line. I could feel Chloe’s heartache and inner conflict.

What You’ll Like About One Fine Day

If you’re a fan of Rachel Hauck and you loved the original Hearts Bend series, you’ll love this book. Carrie Padgett’s voice comes through, and she captures the essence of the previous books.

The story moves along quickly, hooking you right from the beginning.

if you enjoy stories about forgiveness – forgiving yourself and others – you’ll like this story.

Final Thoughts

I’m a quote person, and my favorite quote in this book came from Albert, Chloe’s father-in-law. “True love blooms the moment it finds the right sun, Chloe.” My heart is sighing over that.

A faith element runs throughout that isn’t preachy.

One Fine Day is a sweet love story that may bring a few tears. When you read the last word, you’ll feel satisfied – like you’ve just taken the first delicious bite of a warm, buttery French pastry. It’s a five-star for me.

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