This books mixes two things well. The overarching picture issue of what secret has been held for so long by Aunt Gracie and whether it will come out, and what might be the impact if it does is one, and the other is the day to day life of Lila. This is complete with the sandwich making, dog stroking and questions about her family and upbringing that suddenly come to life.
The motto of everything happens for a reason is sorely rested out, and whilst there is a lot of battling, there is hope in the book and new life comes out of death. There are nice touches of humour - the notes aunt Gracie had pinned to her outfits - along side the sad; the letters of condolence so grateful for Aunt Gracie’s impact and hand in their lives.
The romance is not front and centre, but slow and cute. Everyone loves a good epilogue too!

Excellent Love Story Set in Texas
Ms.Brown is the consummate storyteller. She creates wonderful characters and puts them in thought provoking situations. The main characters always have...character. They're honorable and have empathy for others, even in situations that I'd be nasty in. The love abounds between family and friends and it was a joy to read, but over way too quickly, as the good ones always are.
I received a NetGalley ARC gratis and offer my opinion in the same. Please don't miss this one or you'll regret it.

A quick read to keep me entertained . Mystery/ romance about a woman who has inherited her aunt's house that is full of secrets. This story would be good for a beach read.

The Party Line, one of Carolyn Brown’s best ever stories, will jog the memory of her older readers while introducing younger readers to small towns in days long past when secrets often were discovered by listening in on a party line. Lila has inherited her Great Aunt Grace’s estate that supposedly contains some great secret. Lila has often felt the house is haunted even though she spent many happy childhood hours there. This reader has loved the author’s depiction of older people. This book features Jasper, Aunt Grace’s oldest friend who is like grandfather to Lila. This is a poignant story filled with the love, support and a rediscovering of place and purpose. I loved everything about this story. My review of a copy from NetGalley is voluntary. Most highly recommend.

Part romance, part mystery. Main character Lila has inherited her Aunt Grace's house, located in a small-town, teeming with secrets. As she sorts through her Aunt Grace's belongings, it changes the direction of her life.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in return for my honest review.

Mystery romance? She inherits a home and it’s basically family oriented type story. The importance of family, loved it!

I really enjoyed this book. The characters are loveable and remind me of my loved ones. I especially enjoyed the relationship between Lila and Jasper. Lila inherited her beloved Aunt Grace's home. Her mom feels uncomfortable in the house, but Lila feels at home. This is a lovely story about family and how much they make a difference in our lives. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and I highly recommend it to all.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for a honest review.

The Party Line by Carolyn Brown, is part romance part mystery but mainly feel good. Lila has inherited her Aunt Grace's house and all her worldly possessions in doing so it changes the direction of her life and offers new possibilities.
I enjoyed this story very much.

A poignant and deeply moving love story. The author captures the essence of true love with eloquence and grace. This book stayed with me long after the last page.

Omg, I'm a huge fan of this author and I absolutely loved this book! Thanks Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC

Great book! Carolyn Brown is a favorite author of mine. This book is another great book by her. Fans will enjoy it!

Written in true Carolyn Brown style. I enjoyed this story. The characters were relatable. A small town, hidden secrets from the past, and decisions to be made. I give it 4 stars and will recommend it to others.
Thank you to the publisher for an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.