South of the Buttonwood Tree

South of the Buttonwood Tree by Heather Webber is a magical Southern tale. I thought the story was well-written with developed characters set in a charming Southern town. I liked the Buttonwood Tree that dispenses advice when asked, but you had better follow it or be prepared to pay the price. The story follows Blue Bishop and Sarah Grace Fulton as they go on a journey. Blue finds a baby near the Buttonwood Tree with a note that the little girl is meant for her. No one is aware that this child will bring change to certain lives and hidden secrets will be brought out in the open. The story is well thought out and I liked how it all came together at the end. The magical elements are interesting and clever. The author's vivid imagery brought the town, characters, and tree alive for me. I liked that the characters are realistic with their good traits and their foibles. I loved the descriptions of The Rabbit Hole, the children's bookshop. Romance is in the air for two of our characters if they are willing to open their hearts. The chapters with various town residents talking to the judge were lively. It allowed readers to learn more about Blue and Judge Quimby. Forgiveness and family are the two central themes of the book. South of the Buttonwood Tree is a charming story that will delight those enjoy novels with magical elements. South of the Buttonwood Tree is a mesmerizing tale with an enchanted tree, an abandoned baby, a helpful house, whispering wind, surprising secrets, and a captivating crow.