The Secret to Hummingbird Cake

A novel of strong women and even stronger friendships

By: Celeste Fletcher McHale

Narrated by: Nan Kelley

Friends since kindergarten, Carrigan, Ella Rae, and Laine thought they'd been through everything together. But when cancer threatens to rip the trio apart, their world spins in a way they've never known before. Through it all, they search for the secret to the divine taste of hummingbird cake--and to friendships that never end. Perfect for fans of Dorothea Benton Frank and Kristy Woodson Harvey.

In the South you always say "yes, ma'am" and "no, ma'am." You know everybody's business. Football is a lifestyle not a pastime. Food--especially dessert--is almost a religious experience. And you protect your friends as fiercely as you protect your family--even if the threat is something you cannot see.

In this Southern novel brimming with wit and authenticity, Laine, Carrigan, Ella Rae first met on the playground when they were five years old. Now, as adults, they're still almost inseparable as they handle the outrageous curveballs that life sometimes throws--from devastating pain to absolute joy.

Humor mixes with heartbreak in The Secret to Hummingbird Cake as the three friends navigate everything from a devastating medical diagnosis to the rocky path of marriage. Through it all, you'll experience the essence and the joy of true friendship with these strong women. And if you're lucky, you just may discover the secret to hummingbird cake along the way.

". . . celebrates strong women and stronger ties. Its humor, poignancy, and a clash of sass will touch the heart." --CBA Reviews

"In a world where fake friendship is celebrated, it was most refreshing to read a story that defines what true friendship really is." --The Dallas Dozens Bookclub

So much love amidst a great loss

This is a thoughtful book that fills your heart with joy, love, gratitude, and yes, sadness. If only everyone could experience the type of friendship described within this book.

Funny and Sad

This book was well written. It had you laughing one minute and crying the next. The story line keeps your interest waiting for the next page. Superb read!

Get your tissue box for this on.

This book is. So funny and at times so sad. I love this book. I’m going to read it again this Christmas.

Heartwrenching and sweet.

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

This book is full of sadness, humor, lasting love, sweetness and honor.

What does Nan Kelley bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Nothing! That was my only dislike...this book is set in the south and in my personal opinion, it should have been narrated with a southern dialect. Nan Kelley is a great narrator, but she just didn't fit this book. No one says the word Mrs...properly...it is alway Miss...narration was too proper for the book I thought.

wish this book never ended

I could not stop listening, and wish there wasn't an end to the book. can't wait to listen/read more.