Review: Swan Point

* Book 11 in the sweet Magnolia series *

Adelia's still a little shaken up from the break-up of her marriage. She's happy to be rid of her unfaithful husband Ernesto, but starting over is hard with four children.  Plus she feels guilt from her Catholic upbringing and her sisters aren't happy with her choice.  Still, she's moving forward. Adelia bought a new house on Swan Point, which needs a little fixing up.

Gabe has come home to Swan Point. He wants to change his life around and become something other than a trouble maker in the eyes of the town.  Yes, he had a rough time of it as a teen and left town vowing never to come back. His cousin gives him a job at his construction site.  

When Gabe and Adelia meet, neither of them is looking for love, but the sparks fly anyway. Could it be something or just a rush of chemistry?

My Thoughts: I love Sherryl Woods' books, especially this series. I love the strong women characters who band together and look out for each other. I felt bad for Adelia and how her family wasn't always supportive and behind her. I really liked Adelia's kids and how they tried to understand their new life. They were sweet, smart, and resilient.  I love their interactions with Gabe. I liked watching Gabe struggle to overcome his past and fight for his future and for himself. I really hope that the next book features Carolina because I'm worried about her. Sheryl Woods has a way of writing that gets under your skin.

Cover Thoughts: Pretty
Source: My Library

Adult Review: Catching Fireflies

*book 9 in the Steel Magnolia series*

High school teacher Laura Reed notices that one of students has been skipping class. She's almost positive that something serious is happening in Misty's life. When she tries to connect with the teen, Misty bolts.


Misty's trying to find a solution to a very bad bullying situation. When she attempts to get a doctor's note for school, he forces her to share her thoughts with an adult. He threatens to tell her parents if she doesn't. Misty's parents are going through a divorce. Her mother's in her world world of deny and heartache and her father's never home.


Misty shares a small portion on the truth with Miss Reed. It's enough to make Miss Reed even more concerned. Misty doesn't reveal the name of her bully. Miss Reed contacts Dr J.C. Fullerton once Misty admits that he's forcing her to say something. Together the two of them vow to make things right for Misty again. Can they stop the bullying before it destroys her?

My Thoughts: This is a heartbreaking novel, but a very important novel. I think it's the perfect read for mothers and daughters in high school. My heart broke for Misty and all her troubles. I admired her strength. I admired Katie for standing up for her friend and standing by her.  I liked how the teachers came together to help solve the problem, instead of ignoring the issue.

The romance was cute, I liked the banter between J.C. and Laura. I liked how neither of them wanted a relationship, but fell into it anyways. The gossips among town always makes me laugh. The small town feel reminds me of Stars Hollow.

As usual with this series, I couldn't put this book down!

Cover Thoughts: Pretty
Source: Netgalley

Similar Teen Read: Keep Holding On

Adult Review: Midnight Promises

 * 8th book in the Sweet Magnolia series* 

Eliot and Karen married - but they still have issues to work through. Karen's still gun shy about money issues after her ex-husband left her with debt. She also desires to be seen as a partner.
When Eliot makes decisions without her, she becomes furious.  Eliot wants to use the money they've set aside for a baby as start up for a men's gym. The idea is in motion before Karen finds out - from someone else.
Karen desperately wants to believe that her fairy tale ending is here to stay. But she's not about to let marriage destroy her again. How can she make Eliot see that it's not about him and their love and more about the partnership and financial security she craves?

My Thoughts: I love this series of romance, strong women, and a small community. Each book grows and touches upon more characters in this town, I love reading about their lives.  I liked reading about these characters in the previous books, but I loved finding out what happened after Eliot and Karen married. I like how they struggled through their problems, but came through them stronger. 

I hated the drama with Eliot's sister and the destruction of her marriage. Parts of this story is so heartbreaking, but so real. 

I love how Sherryl Woods weaves families and friends together.  I'm so happy there are more in Sweet Magnolia books to come!!!

Cover Thoughts: Perfect

Source: Netgalley

Similar Series: Cedar Cove