This was a great addition to the series. It picked up where the first one left off without a problem. It was nice revisiting with the sisters and Barney. Looking forward to the next one.

The Sugarhouse Blues is the second installment to author Mariah Stewart's Hudson Sisters novels. The Sugarhouse Blues takes us immediately back into the lives of Des, Allie, and Cara and their endearing new town. After the shocking but welcoming news that their father had a sister, Bonnie, or "Barney', the girls continue to take on their individual roles in restoring the old Sugarhouse theater.

In the second book, Mariah slowly reveals more of the sisters' character traits, secrets, and personalities. I still love Allie most though because she seemed to be so misunderstood and so often wrongly judged. She definitely has a big chip on her shoulder but life hadn't always dealt her a fair hand. However, with the acceptance, guidance, and love from aunt Barney, Allie is slowly realizing who she really is - or should be. Then there's Des, who is sort of the main narrator of the story and Allie's sister. She's hiding from a past that she hasn't quite gotten over yet and the reader is given tidbits on what it might be. It isn't until towards the end of this book that we realize why she is so hesitant on a real relationship with men or why she can't trust so willingly. The third sister, who is the half sister, Cara, is still sweet and optimistic and her love story with Joe carries from the first book. Not much is going on with Cara in book two as it seems to focus more on Allie and Des.
When it comes to sequels, I am always impressed at how authors can make them interesting enough to the readers to continue reading the series. I wasn't sure what to expect with The Sugarhouse Blues but was delighted that the story carried on smoothly and kept me interested in reading towards the very last page.
You don't necessarily have to read book one, The Last Chance Matinee as there are good references throughout book two, but it is highly recommended.
The Sugarhouse Blues ended on a good note and I am even more intrigued with the brewing love/hate relationship between the town Sheriff, Ben and Alllie. There is definitely something interesting going on between these two!
Thank you to NetGalley and Mariah Stewart for the ARC! Eagerly waiting for book 3!