Longing for a bit of country lovin’ in your life? “The Whole Way Home” has country and loving to spare because the main character is a country singing star on her way to the top. Like many of the most famous and successful country singers, Jo Lover’s life has not been easy.

Jo Lover grew up in a one-bedroom cabin in a small town in Virginia. She and JD Gunn played music together since they were in fifth grade. They were best friends and then lovers. But JD left their band when he went to L.A. to make a movie, and since then, Jo has been determined to make a life — and a successful career — without him.

She’s moved on and is engaged to Nick, the scion of one of music’s most powerful people. She is an Opry member and ready to sing at the Ryman Auditorium when JD shows up and knocks her off her stride. To her chagrin, some people notice.

What happens with the feeling she still has for JD? What about Nick, a really, really nice and successful guy who loves her? What about a secret that she’s been hiding for over a decade? And Creech brings in many side players, up-and-coming musicians, to show what life is like before one has “made it” big.

Between the love story, the background mystery, and the side stories, there is plenty to keep the pages turning. Country lovers will enjoy hearing about familiar characters and learning about the inside track into making records and getting a label. Others will enjoy learning about the different kinds of music and specifically, the different kinds of country music. Everyone will love the romance.

Pick this up for any beach vacation or staycation.

Please note: This review is based on the final, hardcover book provided by the publisher, William Morrow, for review purposes.