Category Archives: The Sweet Magnolias

July 21, 2014 · 11:57 pm

Review: Swan Point by Sherryl Woods

swan pointTitle: Swan Point by Sherryl Woods
The Sweet Magnolias Book Eleven
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: Mira
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 368 pages
Book Rating: B+

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

#1 New York Times bestselling author  Sherryl Woods draws readers back into  the world of strong friendships and heartfelt emotions in Serenity, South Carolina

Determined to build a new life for her family after her divorce, Adelia Hernandez has bought a home in the historic Swan Point neighborhood of Serenity. Promoted to manager of Main Street’s most fashionable boutique, she feels revitalized and ready for a fresh start as a single mom. But barely into this new independent phase, she crosses paths with the sexiest man to hit Serenity in years.

Gabe Franklin, back in town to make amends for past mistakes, has no intention of settling down, but Adelia’s proving irresistible. Cheered on by their friends, “the Sweet Magnolias,” Gabe is bringing long-absent passion and laughter into Adelia’s life. To his surprise—and hers—sometimes a rolling stone is just what it takes to build the rock-solid foundation of a family.

“Woods’ readers will eagerly anticipate her trademark small-town setting, loyal friendships, and honorable mentors as they meet new characters and reconnect with familiar ones in this heartwarming tale.”  —Booklist on Home in Carolina

The Review:

Swan Point is another warm and inviting novel in Sherryl Woods’ incredibly heartwarming Sweet Magnolias series. In this latest visit to Serenity, newly divorced Adelia Hernandez is beginning a new life with her four children while Gabe Franklin is trying to make peace with his turbulent past. They are caught off guard by their mutual attraction, but with plenty of encouragement from interfering but well-meaning friends and family, they tentatively begin dating. While this couple has plenty of external obstacles to overcome, it is their internal struggles that threaten to derail their burgeoning romance.

Moving into a new house is just the first step Adelia makes in regaining her independence. After years of criticism from her ex-husband, her flagging self-esteem gets a boost with a well deserved promotion to manager of the clothing boutique where she works. Her biggest concern is the emotional well-being of her children and she is focused on helping them adjust to their new life.

Gabe has a lot of misgivings about his temporary return to Serenity but he is pleasantly surprised by the how well received he is by most of the townspeople. Growing up with an promiscuous mother with an alcohol addiction, his childhood was marred by rumors of her numerous affairs and his countless fights to defend her honor. Older, wiser and more mature, Gabe gains a new perspective on his past and while it would be easy to slip back into old habits, he now considers the consequences before acting on his impulses.

The romance between Adelia and Gabe is sweet and slow-growing. Both are hesitant to enter into a serious relationship but when Gabe begins renovations on Adelia’s house, their attraction becomes impossible to ignore. They begin dating, but the close scrutiny of family and friends adds tension to their already shaky romance. Adelia’s family is dismayed that she is dating and her slimy ex-husband becomes a force to be reckoned with as well. But, in the end, it is Gabe’s unresolved issues that are the real threat to their relationship.

Swan Point is another captivating novel in The Sweet Magnolias series. This lovely romance unfolds at a leisurely pace but it is always quite engrossing. The cast of characters is beautifully developed with realistic flaws that are easy to relate to. The town of Serenity is quite charming and while the townspeople sometimes overstep their boundaries, they genuinely care about one another. Another superbly written love story from Sherryl Woods that I highly recommend.

Please click HERE to read my reviews of the other books in The Sweet Magnolias series.

2 Comments

Filed under Contemporary, Harlequin, Mira, Rated B+, Review, Romance, Sherryl Woods, Swan Point, The Sweet Magnolias

August 27, 2012 · 3:58 am

Where Azaleas Bloom by Sherryl Woods

Title: Where Azaleas Bloom by Sherryl Woods
The Sweet Magnolias Book Ten
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: Harlequin MIRA
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 384 pages
Book Rating: B

Review Copy Obtained from Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

Single mom Lynn Morrow is determined to put food on the table for her son and daughter. Her soon-to-be-ex-husband has failed to meet his obligations time and again—but it turns out that Ed is struggling with his own demons.

Enter contractor Mitch Franklin, an unlikely knight in shining armor. A widower with two grieving sons, Mitch once admired Lynn from afar. Now he sees in her not only the sweet girl who got away, but a woman desperately in need of support. While rushing to the rescue of Lynn and her children comes naturally to Mitch, he’s also wise enough to encourage Lynn to find her own way…hopefully straight into his arms.

The Review:

Part of The Sweet Magnolias series, and the final installment of this summer’s trilogy, Sherryl Woods’ Where Azaleas Bloom is a heartfelt and tender romance. My personal favorite of the three novels, it is a wonderful story of friendship, love and new beginnings as Lynn Morrow and Mitch Franklin slowly fall in love in the midst of Lynn’s impending divorce.

Lynn Morrow is not only reeling from the unexpected divorce from her husband Ed, she is struggling financially when her soon to be ex falls behind on his financial obligations. With few job opportunities, she is working several part time jobs to make ends meet and achieve financial independence. Although she is angry with Ed and deeply hurt by his actions, she puts aside her feelings and encourages her children to maintain their relationship with their father. Lynn shows admirable strength as she regains her independence, but she also lets her pride sometimes get the better of her. She also has some baggage from her past that interferes with her burgeoning relationship with Mitch.

Mitch Franklin is a fabulous character. Still grieving the death of his wife, he is a kind, considerate, loyal and infinitely patient man. He has a wonderful relationship with his college aged sons, although they are not quite prepared for their father to begin dating again. Mitch is understanding of Lynn’s need to take a slow approach to their relationship. While he is willing to let Lynn set the pace for the most part, he is no pushover. He is persistent when he needs to be, but he also knows when to back off.

Although not part of the Sweet Magnolias circle of friends, Lynn is quickly and warmly welcomed into their group. They offer her unconditional support and friendship just when she needs it most. One of the best aspects of The Sweet Magnolias series is how open and caring the characters are and how they are always willing to welcome newcomers into their fold.

Some of the subplots from the other books in the trilogy are resolved in Where Azaleas Bloom. Frances’ health continues to deteriorate, much to Liz and Flo’s dismay and decisions must be made regarding Frances’ living arrangements. A romantic entanglement featuring one of the older women is a wonderful reminder that love is not just for the young.

The resolution of Lynn and Ed’s divorce is very well done and carries a powerful message of forgiveness. I figured out pretty early on how that part of the storyline would play out, but I liked how Lynn and Ed worked things out between them.

Sherryl Woods is a long time favorite author of mine, and Where Azaleas Bloom is the perfect example of why. She brings her readers novels with realistic storylines about timely issues and true to life characters with believable flaws and imperfections. Ms. Woods always takes the time for her characters to get to know not only one another, but themselves as well. I always savor the slow buildup of emotions and I rejoice in the love that they find.

If you enjoy novels with close friendships, a tight-knit community and a sweet romance, you will love Where Azaleas Bloom. It can be read as a standalone novel, but with an author this talented, you will find yourself buying all the other books in The Sweet Magnolias series.

Read my reviews of the other books in the series HERE.

4 Comments

Filed under Contemporary, Harlequin, HarlequinMira, Rated A, Romance, Sherryl Woods, The Sweet Magnolias, Where Azaleas Bloom

July 17, 2012 · 3:57 am

Catching Fireflies by Sherryl Woods

Title: Catching Fireflies by Sherryl Woods
The Sweet Magnolias Book 9
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: HarlequinMIRA
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 384 pages
Book Rating: B+

Review Copy Obtained from Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Sherryl Woods captures a community’s heartfelt fight to preserve the innocence of childhood.

When bullying threatens to destroy a teen’s life, painful memories resurface for dedicated high school teacher Laura Reed and pediatrician J. C. Fullerton. With the support of the Sweet Magnolias, they bring the town together to ensure that a promising student’s future isn’t ruined. And to establish once and for all that bullying has no place in Serenity, South Carolina.

Both J.C.’s and Laura’s passion for the cause is deeply personal, and their growing feelings for each other are just as strong. But with so many secret hurts to overcome, can these two vulnerable lovers find the strength to believe in happily ever after?

The Review:

In Catching Fireflies Sherryl Woods exposes the devastating effects of bullying. Once thought to be a harmless rite of passage, most schools now have a zero tolerance policy for bullying. But what happens when the victims are too afraid to speak up? That is exactly what happens in Catching Fireflies. If not for one observant teacher and a caring pediatrician, Misty Dawson might never have revealed the horrible and vicious attacks perpetrated by her fellow classmates. Through their own personal experiences, Laura Reed and J.C. Fullerton are aware of the long term consequences of bullying and they are determined to put a stop to the cruel behavior before it destroys Misty’s future.

Catching Fireflies is a hard-hitting and powerful lesson that addresses bullying from many different perspectives. Through Misty Dawson, we see how shame and fear cause her to keep silent about the horrible rumors that her fellow classmates are spreading about her. With her parents immersed in their own personal drama, we learn how easy it is for children to hide what is going on their lives.

Why would someone deliberately destroy another person’s reputation? In Catching Fireflies, the reason is multi-faceted. Jealousy is the primary motivation. Lack of parental discipline and guidance play a role. Support from friends gives the illusion that the behavior is acceptable and in fact, they join their friend in her personal vendetta.

We learn how social networking facilitates the bullying and escalates the attacks. Today’s technology makes it easy to retain anonymity and allows bullies to reach a wider audience. The ability to manipulate images through photo editing software makes it easy to humiliate Misty even further.

Secondary to the bullying storyline is the developing romance between Laura Reed and J.C. Fullerton. They are united in their mission to help Misty and their friendship slowly gives way to a sweet romance. Both have painful pasts but with patience and understanding, they are able to heal the hurts of previous relationships.

Fans of The Sweet Magnolias get the opportunity to catch up with characters from the previous books in this delightful series. The second generation of the Sweet Magnolias is just as endearing as their mothers are and they are quick to bring Laura into their fold.

Catching Fireflies provides valuable information and insight into a serious issue plaguing youth today. The novel is realistic and well written and Sherryl Woods does a wonderful job balancing this serious topic with lighter moments and a beautiful romance. Serenity is always a fabulous place to visit and I am looking forward to my next stop in this close-kint and loving community.

1 Comment

Filed under Catching Fireflies, Contemporary, Harlequin, HarlequinMira, Rated B+, Romance, Sherryl Woods, The Sweet Magnolias

June 26, 2012 · 3:57 am

Midnight Promises by Sherryl Woods

Title: Midnight Promises by Sherryl Woods
The Sweet Magnolias Book 8
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: HarlequinMIRA
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 384 pages
Book Rating: B

Review Copy Obtained from Publisher Through NetGalley

Summary:

When Elliott Cruz first courted struggling single mom Karen Ames, it it was a romance worthy of any Sweet Magnolia fantasy. The sexy personal trainer made it his mission to restore Karen’s strength—physical and emotional—and to charm her children.

Now, a few years into the marriage, colliding dreams threaten to tear a few years into the marriage, colliding dreams threaten to tear them them apart. Elliott’s desire to finance the business opportunity of a lifetime with their hard-earned “baby money” stirs Karen’s deep-rooted financial insecurities. It’s the discovery that their brother-in-law is cheating on Elliott’s sister—and thinks it’s justified—that puts their irreconcilable differences into perspective. Will their own loving fidelity be a bond so strong they can triumph against all odds?

The Review:

In Midnight Promises, Sherryl Woods’ presents her readers with an in-depth and realistic look at what happens after the wedding vows are exchanged. Elliot Cruz and Karen Ames discover saying “I Do” is easy, but making a marriage work in the midst of everyday life? Well, let’s just say our couple has a lot to learn about themselves and each other.

Elliot Cruz and Karen Ames have what is probably a fairly typical marriage. Busy careers, long hours and working opposite shifts leave this couple little time together. Two kids, financial stress and extended family involvement provide additional strain on their fragile relationship. Lack of communication, secrets, trust issues and their respective emotional baggage threaten to destroy their marriage.

Ms. Woods beautifully illustrates that successful marriages take hard work. While it may not be romantic, dates sometimes have to be scheduled so couples can reconnect. Families are often a blessing and a curse. Each partner brings their own vulnerabilities and fears to the marriage and it is up to both people to work at understanding where the other person is coming from. Neither partner is perfect and mistakes are inevitable. Learning from those mistakes and self-reflection play a crucial role in resolving the issues facing Elliot and Karen.

The secondary plotlines are well-written and the conflicts provide added depth and substance to the main plot. Elliot’s sister Adelia is going through a marital crisis that forces her to reassess her values and her traditional Hispanic upbringing. Surrogate mother/grandmother Frances is frightened by the implications of an unexpected health problem.

Midnight Promises is a delightful addition to the Sweet Magnolias series. Fans of the series will enjoy reconnecting with characters from previous books in the series. Newcomers to the series will enjoy the camaraderie shared by this close knit group of friends and family.

Midnight Promises by Sherryl Woods is a fast-paced and captivating read that fans of contemporary romances are sure to love. I am very much looking forward to Catching Fireflies, the next installment in this charming series.

8 Comments

Filed under Contemporary, Harlequin, HarlequinMira, Midnight Promises, Rated B, Romance, Sherryl Woods, The Sweet Magnolias