Need a dose of comfort and second chances?
Lilac Time is like a warm afternoon breeze — gentle, fragrant, and full of hope.
This small-town romance anthology brings together three beloved authors — Fern Michaels, Carolyn Brown, and Lori Foster — for a collection of heartfelt, feel-good stories perfect for fans of cozy reads, second-chance love, and women rediscovering joy in unexpected places. If you're looking for one of the best romance anthologies of 2024, this one delivers just the kind of uplifting, contemporary escape that makes weekend reading extra sweet.
I first mentioned Lilac Time in my Six Books I Enjoyed in the Last Six Months post—and while I’ve already read it, I’m just now getting around to giving it the full review it deserves. This 2024 release was exactly the soft, hopeful collection I needed, and I’m excited to finally share my thoughts.
Book Information
Title: Lilac Time by Fern Michaels, Carolyn Brown, and Lori Foster
Publish Date: August 27, 2024
Genre: Small-Town Romance Anthology
Publisher: Kensington Publishing
Pages: 352 pages
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Buy on Amazon | Goodreads
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My Review
I don't often read Fern Michaels, but as soon as I saw both Lori Foster and Carolyn Brown listed as contributors, I immediately requested Lilac Time on NetGalley. I was in the mood for something cozy and uplifting — and this romance anthology delivered exactly that, even if each story hit a little differently.
Fern Michaels opens the collection with a slower, more reflective story. While it took me a bit longer to connect emotionally, it laid a gentle foundation for the themes of renewal and unexpected connection. It's a quieter tale, but one with grace and subtle heart that fans of her previous work will appreciate.
Carolyn Brown's story was the standout for me. Her Southern flair, lively dialogue, and grounded characters gave the book its spark. The balance of humor, heart, and just the right amount of tension made it one of those stories I could've happily read a full-length novel of. If you're new to Carolyn Brown's romance novels, this story perfectly showcases her signature style.
Lori Foster wrapped things up with a romance that felt emotionally rich and tender. The pacing here was strong, and I appreciated the layers she gave her characters — even in such a short space. The chemistry felt earned, and the final act left me smiling. This story exemplifies why Lori Foster remains one of contemporary romance's most beloved authors.
Tonal shifts between stories are inevitable in multi-author collections, but this one flowed surprisingly well. I read it over a cozy weekend and enjoyed moving between different voices while staying rooted in familiar themes. Fans of any one of these authors will find something to love — and if you're new to any of them, this is a great introduction to their storytelling styles.
Who Should Read This Romance Anthology
Perfect for you if you love:
- Small-town romance settings with cozy, intimate atmospheres
- Second-chance love stories and mature heroines
- Multi-author collections that showcase different writing styles
- Contemporary romance with emotional depth but lighter conflict
- Weekend comfort reads that leave you feeling hopeful
Consider passing if you prefer:
- High-heat romance or steamy scenes (this leans sweet)
- Fast-paced action or suspense elements
- Full-length novels over shorter story formats
- Angst-heavy or dark romance themes
My Final Thoughts
While not every story hit the same emotional depth for me, as a whole this collection is perfect for readers looking to unwind with sweet, heart-tugging stories about second chances, aging gracefully, and finding love when you least expect it. Among the best romance anthologies I've read this year, Lilac Time proves that sometimes the most satisfying reads are the ones that remind us love can bloom at any stage of life.
If you're a fan of any of these three authors individually, this anthology is a must-read. It's also an excellent introduction for new readers who want to sample their work before diving into full-length novels.
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Join the Conversation
Have you read Lilac Time or any of these authors' previous works? Share your thoughts below — and let me know which story spoke to you most! I'd especially love to hear from other fans of romance anthologies about your favorite collections.
Shop the Book
Looking for your next cozy afternoon read? This romance anthology is perfect with a cup of tea and a quiet porch swing.
★ Grab Lilac Time on Amazon ★As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases — including via OneLink for international readers — at no extra cost to you.
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