Very few authors can dream up characters and bring them to life on paper like Jodi Thomas. Want to be affected by a character and simple conversation then look no further than something from the pen of Jodi Thomas.

In THE LITTLE TEASHOP ON MAIN, we meet three girls, instant friends from the time they were five going into kindergarten. At first glance, they didn't seem to fit -- odd pieces of a larger puzzle, but Jodi Thomas had a vision and in short work Zoe, Shannon, and Emily were BFF.

Fast forward to the point when these three are set to go off and follow their own visions, dreams, or plans, and we find ourselves enmeshed in various dramas. Life is now more complicated; dreams are less clearly defined somehow. And visions of a future are cloudy at best. These are the realities for each of the three women: Zoe, Emily, and Shannon.

But one of them is truly having trouble maintaining a grasp on life. She is troubled. Her friends aren't sure they are enough to help, but they are there and will do anything. Then there is the character in the shadows, a dark angel they think, but we know better. Jodi Thomas introduced him early on. He is important and yet feels invisible — another character who diminishes his own worth.

Let's not leave out a very important part of this grand puzzle, Jack. Jack is the guy friend to all three of the BFF's. He is the friend that they take turns leaning on when life gets weird. The backbone of this group and Jack is crucial to their well-being.

And then we have the parents. Single mom Alex, owner of the teashop and Zoe's mother. Single dad Mack, career officer and father of Shannon. And Mrs. Waters, Emily's mother. Mack calls Alex Red. Theirs is an unusual relationship that will make you ponder the possibilities. I love these two amazing people whose children have meshed their lives together forever -- like marriage but only somehow better. So welcome to the world of Lauren Springs, small-town America at its best and enjoy watching Zoe, Shannon and Emily discover who they are meant to be. Quite a journey. Enjoy.

THE LITTLE TEASHOP ON MAIN is now officially my favorite book by Jodi Thomas. That is a very challenging conclusion to arrive at since I have absolutely loved my ongoing relationship with this prolific author. Jodi Thomas has given us some of the very best stories that will live on forever. If you are new to Jodi Thomas, then THE LITTLE TEASHOP ON MAIN is an excellent place to join the journey.