Step into the heartwarming world of the Blessings series, where the small town of Henry Adams, Kansas, bursts with faith, love, and the power of community! Penned by bestselling author Beverly Jenkins, this African American women’s fiction saga follows Bernadine Brown and a vibrant cast as they revive a historic Black township, weaving together romance, history, and second chances in a narrative that feels like a warm hug.
With its blend of contemporary issues and rich African American heritage, Blessings isn’t just a series—it’s a celebration of resilience and hope. Ready to discover why readers can’t get enough? Let’s dive into the charm of Henry Adams!
How Blessings Began
Beverly Jenkins, a trailblazer in African American romance, launched the Blessings series in 2009 with Bring on the Blessings. Inspired by her passion for showcasing Black history, Jenkins crafted Henry Adams as a fictional nod to real post-Civil War all-Black towns. Her goal? To tell stories of community and redemption while educating readers about African American heritage. The series grew from this vision, blending soap-opera-style drama with heartfelt moments, earning Jenkins accolades like the 2009 African American Literary Award for Best Romance.
The Heart of Blessings
The series kicks off with Bring on the Blessings, where Bernadine Brown, armed with a $275 million divorce settlement, buys Henry Adams on eBay to save it from ruin. Her mission to restore the town and provide a haven for foster children sets the stage for a saga of transformation. A Second Helping deepens the drama, introducing new faces and challenges, while A Wish and a Prayer brings quirky moments—like a 600-pound hog on trial—and blossoming romances. On the Corner of Hope and Main, the tenth book, tackles a mayoral election and family secrets, keeping the town’s spirit alive.
Jenkins masterfully blends themes of community, forgiveness, and cultural pride. The setting of Henry Adams, rooted in African American history, grounds the series in authenticity, while contemporary issues like foster care, racial identity, and small-town politics add depth. Her conversational style and vivid characters—like the no-nonsense Bernadine and the wise matriarch Tamar July—make every book a page-turner, balancing humor, heart, and history.
The series’ soap-opera vibe keeps readers hooked, with interconnected storylines and evolving characters. Whether it’s a wedding, a scandal, or a tornado, there’s never a dull moment in Henry Adams, making Blessings a standout in women’s fiction and multicultural romance.
Why Blessings Resonates
The Blessings series has left a lasting mark on African American fiction, offering a rare spotlight on Black community resilience. Fans praise its empowering stories and historical insights, often calling it a “cozy hug” of a read. Jenkins’ ability to educate through entertainment—highlighting the legacy of Black townships—has earned her a loyal following and critical acclaim, including NAACP Image Award nominations. The series’ focus on second chances and family, whether by blood or choice, resonates universally, inviting readers of all backgrounds to find home in Henry Adams.
- First Book: Bring on the Blessings (2009)
- Total Books: 10 (as of 2020)
- Awards: 2009 African American Literary Award for Best Romance
- Genres: Women’s Fiction, African American Romance, Multicultural Romance
About Blessings
Grab Bring on the Blessings and step into Henry Adams, where history, heart, and a touch of drama await! Whether you’re a fan of romance, women’s fiction, or stories that celebrate African American culture, the Blessings series is your next must-read adventure!