A Slice of Courage Quiche by Jennifer Moorman


A Slice of Courage Quiche
Title : A Slice of Courage Quiche
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : 1734739509
ISBN-10 : 9781734739503
Language : English
Format Type : Paperback
Number of Pages : 356
Publication : Published September 20, 2023

Real estate agent Tessa Andrews believes she has her life all figured out, organized in meticulously numbered lists to ensure she doesn’t make bad decisions. But after eating a breakfast quiche and receiving a skeleton key to a dilapidated mansion, a reckless impulse overtakes her.

When torrential rains flood Mystic Water, Tessa’s condo drowns in floodwater. In need of a temporary residence, Tessa moves into an empty apartment above the local diner owned by the Borellis. While trying to help people find lodging while the flood recedes, a client sends Tessa a package containing a tarnished key belonging to a neglected historic mansion that is now on the market, and a whole new set of troubles arises, starting with the return of the Borellis’ prodigal son.

Paul Borelli, a travel journalist, shows up unexpectedly in Mystic Water and claims the apartment above the diner where Tessa has been staying. Now in need of another place to live, Tessa’s love of historic homes overtakes her logic, and she tosses aside her numbered lists, unloads her savings account, and buys the mansion with the intention to bring the grand beauty back to life.

Nearly everyone doubts Tessa’s sanity, but along the way she finds unlikely support in an ancient Cherokee spear, a traveling mint plant, and a journalist on the run from his past. Filled with charm, unexpected twists, and a touch of magic, A Slice of Courage Quiche is an enchanting tale of listening to one’s heart, camping indoors, and how acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.


A Slice of Courage Quiche Reviews


  • Nursebookie

    TITLE: A Slice of Courage Quiche
    AUTHOR: Jennifer Moorman
    PUB DATE: 09.20.2023 Now Available

    𝘼 𝙎𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙚 by Jennifer Moorman’s book came at just the right time for me to read… I wanted a book that answers the questions of What if? What if I just had a little bit of courage? Just veering off from a life well planned? I immediately resonated with the character of real estate agent Tessa Andrews - whose life is meticulously planned until, torrential rains flood the town of Mystic Water, a sudden return of an unexpected son, and a skeleton key to a dilapidated mansion lands on Tessa’s hands. What we get is a beautiful Southern novel that made for an enjoyable and magical ride, a feel good read about taking a chance, a little romance, and how a community helps each other in times of need.

  • Colleen

    I received an ebook arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

    The cover and premise was exactly what I was looking for.

    This book was a steady 4 stars most of the read, until my first tear dropped. I was so caught up in the characters and what they were going through. Moorman spung a glimmering tale filled with food and small town love.

    Some things were predictable but that didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the story that was unfolding. And it was nice watching Tessa grow more confident.

    This was just the touch of magical realism I needed and I would suggest this book to those that love Heather Webber and Sarah Addison Allen.

  • Bless Your Memory

    Do you like Southern Comfort Food? Historic Homes that need a lot of love? Romance? Then this book is for you!

  • Vickie

    Cute story about Tessa who loses her condo to a major flood, decides to buy an old historical home, meets Paul who is deciding to possibly settle down. Lots of small magic and community love. The best part of the story was having Crazy Kate Muir included.

    Go Cards! L1C4!!

  • Abby Lindsey

    4.5⭐️ rounded up. I loved this book so much! Definitely my favorite in this three book series. It was magical and whimsical and I loved the characters and the town. I knocked off 1/2 a star because throughout the book, a character from book 2 was called Crazy Kate. Every single time. As if that was her actual name. At some point, she needed to be referred to as just Kate again. Aaaand because in my head, there were a couple other ways rehab on the historic house could have been accomplished financially. But that probably would have taken away from the magic so I’ll let that slide.

  • Ann

    This was a story with a little magic and lots of community help. The download format gave me some difficulty with a lot of blacked out pages and then when I would go back there was a few more written pages. I think this lead to my 3 star rating. Tessa is a real estate agent and buys a house that is put on the market. It needs a lot of love. Lots of obstacles stand in her way but she preservers and there is a happy ending.

  • Aubrey

    Magical Realism is currently everywhere in fiction, which I am so excited to see, and Jennifer Moorman is, to me, one of the OG magical realism authors! If you like this genre, you need to read her stories. I first picked up her books years ago and quickly read through them all. She became one of my fave authors and I try to read everything she publishes. She’s a queen when it comes to magical realism work. I revisit her work often when I need a pick me up and so I was pumped to get a chance to read this book early.

    I was lucky to be chosen as an ARC reader for the (re)debut of A Slice of Courage Quiche and I’m so glad I had this opportunity. It’s a great continuation of The Baker’s Man story, giving the character of Tessa room to grow. Tessa’s journey is something we can all relate to, especially when it comes to finding your own voice and coming in to your own power. I also love Crazy Kate. She’s one of my favorite characters in the Jennifer Moorman Cinematic Universe and she was fabulous in this book. Witty, charming, kinda weird - who I want to be when I grow up.

    If you love southern food, magical realism, symbolism, gorgeous old houses (no really, the best part are the houses imho), prose so sweet you could eat it with a spoon, a dashing and handsome and charming romantic lead, and a cast of quirky characters, you’ll like ASOCQ.

    One of my favorite parts of JM’s writing is the way she sets the scenes. She has a way of making you feel like you are in the room watching it happen - especially when the magic sparks!! After I read her books, I feel like I can do anything, see anything, believe anything. If you want a pick me up or to escape into a happy, fantasy world for a bit that is both historical and charming, this is a great book to read. After, I went out to my garden and talked to my mint plant justtt to make sure it wasn’t hiding any magical secrets.

    Also….don’t read this book while hungry. Get snacks first. Preferably caramel creams (my favorite) or a giant, southern breakfast. You’ll want potatoes really badly after reading. Ha.

    Thank you JM and Full Moon Press for the advanced copy! I was not compensated in any way for this review. All thoughts are honest and true and my own!

  • Tricia Hackney

    I LOVED the newest installment in the magical realism series - Jennifer Moorman is one of my new favorite authors!! While I thought Tessa was a pain in the butt in the The Baker's Man - I adored in this book. I immediately felt for her and her loss and she immediately gained a cheerleader. Its amazing to read a GOOD CLEAN magical love story - that extends beyond just the two mains - but encompasses the entire community. Thank you to Netgalley and Jennifer Moorman for an advanced copy of A Slice of Courage Quiche in exchange for an honest review.

  • Sarah W

    This is my favorite book out of the Mystic Waters series. It was the perfect light heartwarming read and I love the way it made me feel while reading. There was some romance but it was more than just a romance novel. I loved Tessa and her little notebook. It helped her think through some of her decisions, but it also made her rely on others input a little too much. Because of this I could really see her confidence grow throughout the book. It was the kind of read that made me wish I could talk to the characters. Tessa would think about doing something and I just wanted to tell her to do it. I had a feeling about where Tessa was going to end up but not the events that would lead her there. The banter between Tessa and Paul was so playful and fun, it was exactly the kind I love and their meet-cute was great. Anytime these two were together I was smiling at their growing connection. I am a huge fan of magical realism and I loved how it was a big part of this book but not overpowering the story. The mint plant was my favorite magical realism part and I liked learning about the different herbs in the garden and their “magical” properties. I liked the amount that Kate showed up in this book and the bond that slowly build between her and Tessa. It had some drama and catastrophes, and I could not put it down. I loved the small town feel and the way the town comes together for their own. Even though this can be read as a standalone I liked having read the previous books. After finishing this one it made me appreciate the second even more.

  • Margie Senechal

    Just for the record, I’m a huge magical realism nut and Jennifer Moorman is quickly moving to the top of my must-have authors. I started A Slice of Courage Quiche, her third book in the Mystic Water series this morning and sped through it within hours.

    Moorman’s lyrical prose is at times breath-taking and awe-inspiring. I want to live in the world she creates with her words. Her characters are people I’d love to have in my life. I want to live above a bakery with a magical herb garden and have a hot travel writer show up in my apartment.
    It was nice to see old friends from the previous books, but also meet a few news ones like Crazy Kate, frosty Mrs. Steele, and of course, our hero, Paul.

    The best part was rooting for Tessa in all aspects of her falling-apart life, especially the slow-burn romance with Paul that made her abandon her doubts and come out better for it. The community Moorman created here is one this city girl envies. This gets a shooting star rating of five (out of five). Oh, and an extra shooting star for the inclusion of fireflies. As a PNW girl, I love a good firefly inclusion as to live vicariously.

    Thank you, Netgalley and Full Moon Press for the ARC and the opportunity to read this wonderful book before publication.

  • Susan Ballard

    4.5🌟

    Let me tell you, Jennifer Moorman has got this magical realism thing down to an art! She uses teas, herbs, the weather, and other enchanted things to help change the course of events.

    It was great being back in the quaint southern town of Mystic Water. Unfortunately, torrential rains flooded real estate agent Tessa Andrews’ condo, and she is in a pickle to find a place to live. Luckily, the Borellis, owners of the local diner, offer the apartment they’ve been saving for their son.

    Several serendipitous events take place: Tessa receives a skeleton key in the mail belonging to a historical mansion (which stands empty and is for sale), she consumes herbs from a garden that just may be bewitched, and the Borellis’ son, Paul, comes home from his travels.

    I loved the mixture of friendship, magic, and mystery - as the historical house Tessa tried to save has a fascinating past. But the romance that blossomed was sweet and savory (they ate so much good food!). Honestly, though, I literally could smell the mint, thyme, and rosemary. I could hear the wind rustle the pages of books and leaves - 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰.


    Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jenniferrmoorman for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

  • Debbie Rozier

    A SLICE OF COURAGE QUICHE is a magical realism book with a touch of romance and a female main character who learns to trust her instincts.

    Tessa’s condo is destroyed after a flood washes through town. Through the kindness of her favorite family (the Borellis) that own the local diner, Tessa is temporarily staying in the apartment above the diner.

    Tessa is a real estate agent. Between trying to figure out her own permanent living arrangement as well as helping others who have been displaced from the flood, she receives a key in the mail and a directive from the owner of Honeysuckle Hollow to sale the historic home.

    When Paul Borelli, the prodigal son, comes to town Tessa has to share the apartment with him.

    Tessa has made some impetuous decisions in the past that have caused negative consequences so when she feels lead to buy and restore Honeysuckle House, she is sacred to trust her instincts.

    This book is lovely. It makes me smile reading when good things happen to good people. The magic herbs and secondary characters also made me happy.

    Each book in the Mystic River series can be read as stand alones or stacked together to keep that warm and fuzzy feeling going.

  • Reeca Elliott

    Torrential rains have flooded the town of Mystic Water and this includes Tessa’s condo and her car. Tessa moves into an empty apartment above the Borellis’ diner. But, in an unexpected turn of events, the Borellis’ prodigal son, Paul, returns home and surprises everyone. Now, Tessa is in search of another place to live when a skeleton key to a historic mansion shows up at her office.

    Tessa is a fantastic character. When she starts driving the Great Pumpkin (a car her parents lend her), I cracked up! Then there is the old mansion. I could just picture it. I so wanted to go exploring. But don’t worry…Crazy Kate would have to be there too. You will have to read this to find out about this character!

    Well, I am now going to have to go back and pick up this author’s other books. I enjoyed so much about this one! The characters, the snarkiness, the old house, the setting all melded together and created this charming tale. Oh…and don’t forget about Paul! Tessa and Paul have such a wonderful chemistry

    Need an adorable, heartwarming read…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

    I received this novel from the author for a honest opinion.

  • JANELLE

    This was such an enjoyable story! I loved the setting and the characters and the magic of Mystic Water!

    Tessa is a real estate agent dealing with her own flooded condo and helping all her neighbors find places to stay. She's also taken on selling a historic mansion in the area. After she settles into an apartment above the local diner, she takes on the mansion - the next thing on her list. One of many lists - she's made mistakes in her life in the past, so now she makes lists and has to have at least three people agree with her before she makes any decisions. In the meantime, the Borellis' prodigal son, Paul, a travel journalist, arrives home and wants to move into the apartment. And against her own thinking, Tessa decides to buy the mansion herself and remodel it. That's when all the magic of the area comes into play. It's such a fun story, the monologue between Paul and Tessa is entertaining.

    Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

  • Cozy Reviews

    I so enjoyed this well written story of a strong smart woman on her own starting over after a flood ruins her home. Tessa lives in a charming small town where everyone knows each others business. After her home is destroyed in a flood she finds a magical stately mansion that has been neglected and decides to buy it and restore it to its former glory. Along the way she is encourgaged by a bit of magic and her good friends. The description of the mansion is elegant and deserving of Tessa's attention. The project soon changes her life in ways she never expected and brings a romantic interest .

    I love that Tessa is empathic and cares about others. She did not hesitate to start over once her life as necessary. With her trademark organization skills and knowledge as a realtor she not only improves her life but the life of others in her community with kindness. This is a enjoyable read that I highly recommend.

  • Miss W Book Reviews

    A Slice of Courage Quiche by Jennifer Moorman is the second book in the Mystic Water Series.
    I absolutely loved the first book
    The Necessity of Lavender Tea:.

    This can definitely be read as a stand-alone book.

    Tessa is dealing with horrendous floods in Mystic Water. Tessa condo is flooded.

    She moves in an apartment above a local diner. She is also helping locals find housing from the flooding.

    Paul Borelli appears in town and wants the apartment above the diner for his own.

    With nowhere to live, on a whim she buys a mansion and that is when the MAGIC begins.

    OMG I loved this book so much. The story, the characters, and the magic.

    Highly recommend this book.

  • Sandee

    Sweet and magical, Jennifer Moorman's Slice of Courage Quiche, like all the books in her Mystic Water series, is just the recipe for a cozy, comforting read. It is an updated version of Honeysuckle Hollow and still includes the delicious descriptions of comfort foods, quirky but neighborly characters, a Victorian mansion in need of some TLC, a handsome architect, and a magical mint plant.
    I received a free, advanced copy of Slice of Courage Quiche, although since reading The Baker's Man when it first came out, Ms. Moorman's books are among those I regularly seek out. I hope in addition to refreshing her original books, readers soon will be treated to some new material as well.

  • Sarah Bowe

    I'm really liking magical realism when done in such a fun way and Jennifer's books, set in fictional Mystic Water, are some favs. Now, this is only my second one by her but I don't care.... My statement still stands.

    I really liked how it started even though it was a real situation, I would cry! I really liked Honeysuckle Hollow house. I love that the author gave it a mind of is own. I really like seeing Kate again (from the previous book).
    I like that Tessa asks 3 people if a big decision sounds like a good idea before proceeding. I like the natural and fun progress of Tessa and Paul's relationship. I like the town and how they come together when hard times hit their town.

  • Dawnny<span class=

    Real estate agent Tess Andrews has her life all listed out, literally! When the rain storms flood out her condo she finds herself in an apartment above the diner. Then Tess receives a package with a key belonging to a historic mansion in need of repairs. Tess throws her list aside and goes for it, she buys the mansion. Add in a hot travel writer, a magical mint plant and good food. Who could ask for more. I love the idea of taking risks and going for it. Magical realism is one of my favorites to read. I highly recommend. You won't be disappointed.

    Dawnny Ruby
    Novels N Latte
    Hudson Valley

  • Louise

    Tessa's condo has flooded and she needs somewhere to stay temporarily. She decides to move back with her parents but Cecelia suggests an alternative. From then, Tessa attempts to resume life as normal while the flood subsides and arranges accommodation plans. Meanwhile, she meets Paul - a rocky first encounter - and discovers magic. It takes time for the plot to commence as the story provides readers with extensive information about the characters featured, particularly Tessa and Paul. This is a character-driven story.


    I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
    Thank you to NetGalley and author.

  • Christy Taylor

    It was good to be back in Mystic Water! This is the third in the series but could easily be read as a stand alone. Jennifer Moorman’s writing is wonderfully descriptive and I could clearly picture the charming small town as well as Honeysuckle Hollow, a historic home around which much of the story centered. Tessa was a great character who did so much to help others in town. It was nice to see the townspeople return the favor. The chapters were titled with unique foods/dishes and each one sounded delicious - - so much that I had to make a version of courage quiche!

  • Booksandcoffeemx

    𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨!

    Another fantastic read from Jennifer Moorman, I love her books, they’re filled with magic, love, charm, beautiful settings and lovable characters. A unique an enchanting story.

    Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.

    𝗔 𝗦𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗢𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗲 by Jennifer Moorman Books released September 12, 2023.

    𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗶𝗱𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂?

    𝗜 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆!


    https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...

  • Cherry London<span class=

    It is a well-crafted story with captivating characters. This story was heartfelt and sweet. Tessa grabbed the chance to do something for herself, but when family and friends started ridiculing her, her confidence in her ability began to wane. Paul had itchy commitment feet, and meeting Tessa brought back the joy and the need for a more permanent relationship. It took a disaster for Tessa to find her true path in life. With a bit of whimsical magic, a derelict Victorian house, and an enchanted garden, they embarked on a life-changing path.

  • HEATHER

    This was the first book I have read by Jennifer Moorman and it won't be the last. This book is lovely. It makes me smile reading when good things happen to good people. The magic herbs and secondary characters also made me happy. If your wanting a fell good book then grab this one!! I highly recommend it!


    Thank you NetGalley and Full Moon Press for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

  • Kelly

    This book was like a home-cooked meal; warm and comforting. From the beginning, I felt at home with the characters, and at home in the setting. Food was a significant theme in this book, and that was something that I enjoyed, even if it did make me feel a little bit hungry to read it.

    Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.

  • Kelly

    This is a rerelease of a old book. I really enjoyed this magical realism southern book. You follow Tess and her life is upended by a terrible flood and how she recovers while buying a old historic home in need of repairs. There is a bit of romance mixed in. I will definitely read more by this author.

  • Lauren Nicole

    Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
    What a sweet and uplifting book. I enjoyed all of the nice and sometimes quirky characters in this novel. I loved the historic house and that Tessa was so passionate about it and repairing it. Just an all around feel good book with a little bit of magic thrown in.