Wishing Tree — by Susan Mallery

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  Say You'll Stay
  

  • Jul-2021
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  Book - 0.5
  

  Welcome to Wishing Tree, where the magic of Christmas in July will bring you home in this heartwarming story by #1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery. Some heartbreaks hit harder than others. For Shaye Harper, the last one was so bad ...

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  The Christmas Wedding Guest
  

  • Oct-2021
  • 

  Book - 1
  

  Susan Mallery, author of the Fool's Gold romances, cheerfully invites you to Wishing Tree, where Christmas comes to life... The Somerville sisters believe in love, but they've lost faith it will happen for them. Reggie hasn't been home since the e...

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  Home Sweet Christmas
  

  • Oct-2022
  • 

  Book - 2
  

  With twinkling humor and heartfelt Christmas spirit, two friends find love in a town called Wishing Tree... Until Camryn Neff can return to her "real" life in Chicago, she's in Wishing Tree to care for her twin sisters. She's not looking for fore...

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Series Premise

The series is set in Wishing Tree, Washington—a picturesque, romantic small town renowned for its holiday spirit, community events, and a legendary wishing tree where locals and visitors tie notes or ribbons to make heartfelt wishes. The town draws people seeking escape, renewal, or a fresh start, and its welcoming atmosphere helps them rediscover joy, love, and purpose.

The core premise follows women (and occasionally men) who arrive in Wishing Tree during pivotal life moments—often tied to family obligations, heartbreak, career changes, or holiday visits. They confront personal challenges while becoming part of the town's fabric, forming connections with locals who offer support, humor, and romantic possibilities. Each story centers on a protagonist finding unexpected love with a resident, while navigating family dynamics, self-doubt, or past mistakes. Holiday elements (Christmas in July celebrations, vow renewals, festive gatherings) amplify the romance and community warmth. The overarching thread is that Wishing Tree isn't just a backdrop—it's a catalyst for healing and transformation, where the magic of the town and its people helps characters embrace second chances and lasting happiness. Friendships, family ties, and the town's quirky traditions provide continuity, with characters from one book appearing in others to reinforce themes of interconnected lives and enduring bonds.

Wishing Tree Series Characters

The series features relatable, strong protagonists—primarily women—who arrive in Wishing Tree at turning points in their lives, paired with grounded, kind-hearted locals who help them find home.



Recurring or prominent figures include:



- Reggie (in one of the early Christmas stories): A woman returning home after a painful broken engagement, navigating family vow renewals and rediscovering love amid holiday magic.



- Camryn Neff (in a later holiday tale): A career-focused woman temporarily in Wishing Tree caring for her twin sisters, determined not to stay but drawn into the town's charm and a meaningful romance.



- Shaye Harper (in a summer-themed entry): A woman swearing off men after heartbreak, passing through for a fresh start but swept up by the town's summer festivities and a handsome local veteran.



Romantic heroes are typically dependable, charming men—often locals with deep roots in Wishing Tree—such as army veterans, business owners, or community figures who offer stability, humor, and genuine affection. They balance the heroines' independence with quiet support and shared growth.

Setting of the Wishing Tree Series

The series is set in Wishing Tree, Washington, a charming small town that embodies romantic small-town idealism. Nestled in a scenic Pacific Northwest landscape, the town features snow-dusted streets in winter, colorful autumn foliage, sparkling lakes or rivers nearby, and cozy homes decorated for the holidays. The titular wishing tree stands as a beloved landmark—locals and visitors tie wishes to its branches, creating a sense of magic and community hope.



Key locations include festive downtown areas with shops, cafés, and event spaces for Christmas in July celebrations or vow renewals; family homes filled with warmth and holiday decorations; and outdoor settings that highlight the town's natural beauty. The seasonal atmosphere—twinkling lights, hot cocoa, parades, and gatherings—plays a central role, enhancing romance and community spirit. Wishing Tree feels timeless and welcoming: isolated enough for intimacy, yet vibrant with traditions that draw people together. Mallery vividly evokes sensory details—the scent of pine and cinnamon, the sound of carols, the glow of holiday lights—making the town a character that nurtures healing and love.

Tone & Themes of the Wishing Tree Series

The tone is warm, optimistic, and gently uplifting, delivering the cozy, feel-good escape characteristic of Susan Mallery's best work. The books balance light drama—heartbreak, family tensions, self-doubt, or temporary setbacks—with humor, kindness, and hope. Mallery excels at portraying real emotions without heavy angst; difficulties are met with resilience, compassion, and the support of friends and neighbors.

Humor shines through small-town quirks, witty banter, holiday mishaps, and endearing character interactions. Romances are tender, mature, and satisfying—often second-chance or slow-burn love stories built on mutual respect, shared laughter, and emotional vulnerability. The narratives celebrate personal growth, forgiveness, and the joy of simple pleasures (festive lights, community events, heartfelt conversations). Overall, the vibe is comforting and joyful—like a warm holiday hug—empowering readers with the message that love, friendship, and a little holiday magic can heal even the deepest wounds and lead to brighter futures.

Susan Mallery's Wishing Tree series delivers a delightful, heartwarming escape to a town where holiday magic, community kindness, and love work wonders. Through women who arrive seeking temporary refuge but find forever homes—and men who help them see their worth—the books celebrate second chances, friendship, and the quiet joy of belonging. With its festive charm, tender romances, vivid small-town setting, and uplifting messages, the series offers cozy, soul-soothing reading that feels like wrapping up in a warm blanket by the fire. It's a joyful reminder that sometimes the best wishes come true in the places—and with the people—where we least expect them, leaving readers with smiles, hope, and a longing to visit Wishing Tree again.