Three sisters have been tasked with restoring an old playhouse to meet the requirements of their father's will and to inherit their father's estate. The restoration is taking longer than expected and more money than they were allotted. A windstorm passed through damaging the roof and the gorgeous painted ceiling will need a lot of repair.

Allie and Desi grew up together, but their relationship has never been good. Resentment and jealousy soured the love between them. Cara was a part of their father's second family. Neither of the two know her well but are seeking to become friends. Desi is the main focus of this story. Her fear of commitment and the reasons for it are addressed. Her relationship with Allie is something Desi hopes to repair. They continue to hurt each other as Desi and Seth explore the feelings between them.

THE SUGARHOUSE BLUES is the second in the Hudson Sisters trilogy. Not having read the first, one always wonders if one will start having to play catch up. Mariah Stewart did a fabulous job of making each book totally separate. The necessary explanation is only a few pages which catches the reader up easily. As I read, it was easy to see the unhappiness that both Desi and Allie felt and the remnants of what drove them apart during their childhoods. Each feels the need to prove their worth to the other. The reader will enjoy the journey as Desi gradually realizes how much she loves Seth. THE SUGARHOUSE BLUES is an extremely satisfying read.