The February Literary Road Trip Box was themed to Alabama and included a copy of Heather Webber's novel, Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe.
Set in the fictional mountain town of Wicklow, Alabama, the story follows a young woman named Anna Kate, who returns to her family's hometown following the death of her beloved grandmother. Anna Kate's parents have both died and she believes that she doesn't have any close relatives still living. As part of her grandmother's will, Anna Kate must spent two months working at her grandmother's cafe before she will be able to inherit the estate.
Anna Kate has no plans to stay long term in Wicklow. She will do the two months, sell her grandmother's properties, and start medical school in a big city. What Anna Kate doesn't realize is that she has a grander purpose in Wicklow, which includes a bit of magic.
The Blackbird Cafe is known for special pies that allow anyone who eats a slice to receive messages from deceased loved ones during their dreams. Some people of Wicklow believe in the magic of the pies and others think it's nonsense, but either way, Anna Kate quickly becomes part of the fabric of the town. She also learns that she has close kin on her dad's side, but that the situation is complicated.
Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe is a beautiful story about forgiveness, regrets, and learning to follow your own path in life. I'm a sucker for small town settings. The residents of Wicklow have problems and character flaws, but at their core, they are all decent people. It's a feel good story. Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe gave me similar vibes to one of my all-time favorite shows, Gilmore Girls.
I love the light magic element of the pies. It would be incredible to think that you could eat something delicious and receive a message from a deceased loved one. There is a bit a humor in that not all of the messages are profound and sometimes the deceased just might not have anything to say to you. Webber infused her story with so many creative and touching elements.
If you've had a chance to read Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe, I hope that you enjoyed it as much as I did!
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