Review of The Apple Tree (Sunday Morning, #2) by Jewel E. Ann
There’s something about the combination of Jewel E. Ann’s storytelling and the allure of a small-town romance that pulls me in every time. The Apple Tree had me intrigued from the start with its promise of complex characters navigating unexpected love in an enchanting setting. However, while the premise was captivating, I found myself grappling with some mixed feelings by the time I turned the last page.
In this story, we meet Kyle, a single father who moves next door to the local pastor, and Eve, a vibrant and sassy young woman who quickly becomes enamored with both him and his son, Josh. The initial attraction leaps off the pages, making my heart flutter in the way only a good romance can. I mean, who doesn’t love a single dad who’s caring and devoted? But as I delved deeper into their relationship, I noticed a lack of chemistry that left me feeling somewhat disconnected from both Kyle and Eve.
One of the highlights of the book is undoubtedly the pacing; it flowed beautifully, ensuring my attention was captured without scuttling through any parts. The dual POV provided a balanced look into their lives, yet despite this depth, I struggled to connect with the characters on a meaningful level. Eve’s cringey moments in her pursuit of Kyle made it hard for me to fully embrace her character, while Kyle’s push-pull behavior felt frustrating, as if he were tossing me about like a leaf in the wind.
As I approached the conclusion, I was hopeful for a resolution that matched the buildup of the story. However, the ending felt more like an afterthought—an epilogue hastily wrapped up to satisfy the "HEA" desire. As much as I appreciate a good happy ending, I wanted more substance, more emotional exploration. It’s as if the conflicts faced by the characters were glossed over just to tie everything up neatly. I can’t deny that I’m partial to well-fleshed-out endings, and sadly, this one felt rushed.
Yet, even within the critique, there were memorable moments—especially those tender scenes between Kyle and his son, Josh. Their interactions tugged at my heartstrings, shedding light on the joys and challenges of single parenthood. The writing style was classic Jewel E. Ann: witty, engaging, and peppered with moments of authentic warmth. I found myself laughing at some of Eve’s witty comebacks, even if her actions sometimes left me shaking my head.
In the grand tapestry of Jewel E. Ann’s works, The Apple Tree unfortunately falls a bit short for me. Though the premise was delightful and the characters had potential, the execution lacked the depth and connection I long to experience in a romance. This book might resonate better with readers who enjoy a quicker, more straightforward storyline, but for those who thrive on rich, emotional journeys, it may feel like a missed opportunity.
Overall, I’d recommend The Apple Tree to fans of the author who appreciate her signature style and are willing to embrace a story that doesn’t quite hit all the sweet notes. For me, though? It was a little too much like dessert without enough filling—a tempting treat, but ultimately something that left me wanting more.
Discover more about The Apple Tree (Sunday Morning, #2) on GoodReads >>