Tag Archives: Magnolia Sound

Kiss The Girl (Magnolia Sound 11) by Samantha Chase-review tour

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Kiss The Girl (Magnolia Sound 11) by Samantha Chase-review tour

 

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /Apple / / Google /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 16, 2022

Savannah James is no stranger to heartache and loss. It wasn’t enough to lose two sets of parents, now she’s losing the only person she has left. Escorting Cash Coleman back to Magnolia Sound so he can say goodbye to his family is a no brainer if it means she gets to spend whatever time he has left with him. Once he’s gone, it’s back to her lonely life in Seattle. At least, that’s what she thought would happen before she met Cash’s family—and his youngest son.

When it comes to his father, Jackson Coleman isn’t short on anger. So when the old man comes back to Magnolia Sound to say goodbye, he’s determined not to care. But with Cash comes Savannah, and Jackson starts to question everything he’s ever thought about his father—like why was he able to be a parent to a friend’s daughter when he couldn’t even be there for his own sons? As much as Savannah represents everything he resents about Cash, he also can’t deny the intense attraction he feels for her.

After a lifetime of being left behind, Savannah finally found the one person she wants to stay. But in order to have a chance at a happily ever after with Jackson, she’ll have to fight every instinct she has to not get attached.

••••••

REVIEW:KISS THE GIRL is the eleventh instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series. This is massage therapist Savannah James, and former US Marine Jackson Coleman’s story line. KISS THE GIRL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as it pertains to Jackson’s father Cash.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Jackson and Savannah) KISS THE GIRL follows in the wake of Cash Coleman’s return home to say good bye. Cash Coleman left his wife Grace and their three young sons years ago but has returned to his home town of Magnolia Sound in an effort to make amends and say good bye in the face of his cancer diagnosis but Cash’s three sons Austin, Garrett and Jackson have battled with their father’s disappearance, a disappearance that left the family struggling to make ends meet. With Cash’s return comes massage therapist Savannah James, a young woman who is closer to Cash than most of his family, a closeness that Cash’s son Jackson struggles to accept. As Cash’s only friend, Savannah is hoping to allow Cash the time to say good bye but falling for Jackson Coleman was never in the cards. What ensues is the building relationship between Jackson and Savannah, and the potential fall-out as Savannah struggles with issues of trust, and battles between head and heart knowing her time in Magnolia Sound is coming to a close.

The relationship between Jackson and Savannah begins innocently with neither one knowing the other’s connection to Jackson’s father Cash. Jackson feels betrayed not only by his father but by the woman with whom he is falling in love, a young woman who has lost everyone she has ever loved. As Jackson and Savannah’s relationship begins to grow, with a little help from Cash, Savannah must come to terms with not only rejection but with the grief of losing a man she so dearly loved. The $ex scenes fade to black or are mostly implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, most of whom we have met in the previous story lines. No one is immune to the return of Cash Coleman, the emotional fall out is heart breaking.

KISS THE GIRL is a story of family, relationships, friendships and love; of mistrust and misunderstanding, jealousy and acceptance, love and loss, grief and death. The premise is emotional and heart breaking; the characters are real and charismatic; the romance is subtle and passionate.

 

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In case You Didn’t Know
All the Befores 3.5
And Then One Day
Can’t Help Falling in Love
Last Beautiful Girl
The Way The Story Goes
Since You’ve Been Gone
Always on My Mind

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Bookbub /

New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

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Always on My Mind (Magnolia Sound) by Samantha Chase-Review Tour

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Always on My Mind (Magnolia Sound) by Samantha Chase-Review Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /Apple/

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3h5YnyE

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 22, 2022

Returning to Magnolia Sound was never part of the plan. Then again, Parker Bishop rarely had one. Yet after confessing her love to her best friend right before his wedding, she needs time to lick her wounds from the disastrous scene that unfolds. After the unsympathetic welcome she receives from her parents and siblings, Parker finds herself absentmindedly driving through town in search of a place to stay.

That’s when she spots the flier and a familiar name…

Ethan Harlow enjoys the peace and quiet. Unfortunately, finding a moment of it becomes impossible when the flier he posts for a roommate brings Parker crashing into his life. Of course, he remembers her from high school. It’s impossible to forget little miss popular who was always the center of attention. All he wanted was to split the rent and keep to himself. Instead, Parker transforms his home and makes him question the dreams he gave up out of fear of stepping out of his comfort zone.

The attraction they feel to one another makes crossing the line from roommates to lovers seem inevitable. But the more Parker encourages Ethan to pursue his dreams, the less likely it becomes that they can have any kind of future together. Can they find a way to claim their happily ever after or will their individual paths make a future impossible?

••••••

REVIEW: ALWAYS ON MY MIND is the tenth instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series. This is college professor Ethan Harlow, and Parker Bishop’s story line. ALWAYS ON MY MIND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Ethan and Parker) ALWAYS ON MY MIND sees another Coleman-Bishop heir find their own happily ever after. Months earlier Parker’s great grandfather Coleman died, leaving a little part of himself, and Magnolia Sound to his great grandchildren, grandchildren and heirs. As one of the founding families of Magnolia Sound, the Coleman-Bishop clan owned a large number of properties and business, business that apparently skipped over our story line heroine. Parker Bishop, always the proverbial nomad, was gifted money, and a letter asking her to enjoy her life travelling the world but Parker would soon discover that her best friend was getting married, and she would be homeless in a matter of days. Returning to Magnolia Sound, our heroine was not easily accepted by her family and friends, and once again, homelessness was but a matter of hours on the horizon. Enter college professor Ethan Harlow, and the man with whom Parker would fall in love. Ethan has a room available for rent but Parker is not the type of person Ethan is looking for. What ensues is the roommates to friends to lovers relationship between Ethan and Parker, and the potential fall-out as Ethan reaches his own professional crossroad, a crossroad that could pull Ethan out of Parker’s life.

Parker Bishop has always been unsettled and a little erratic; a person who struggled in school, having no direction in life, including no direction for her immediate future. Parker’s siblings and family never understood our story line heroine, and Parker felt she was always on the outside looking in, without benefit of support or love. Renting a room from Ethan Harlow, meant the possibility of putting down roots in Magnolia Sound, but our heroine’s inability to settle, to remain in one place, pushes at our story line hero who struggles with the roommate he never wanted. Ethan Harlow remembers Parker Bishop from their days in high school but never expected to find a roommate and lover in our story line heroine. When Ethan is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, Ethan must chose between Parker or going it alone.

The relationship between Parker and Ethan begins acrimoniously as Ethan struggles to accept the over the top nuances of our story line heroine. Parker battles with issues of low self-worth and low self-esteem such that she finds the negativity in everything including her small chances at success.Having lived her life fighting for acceptance, it is only a matter of time before she begins to think that she is not worthy of friendship or love.Battling between head and heart Parker has plans for a future, a future that may not include the man that she loves. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Parker’s judgemental and stifling siblings, none of whom support our story line heroine. From her mother to siblings, cousins and friends, Parker constantly fights for a place in the family, a family that sees Parker as nothing more than a loose end.

ALWAYS ON MY MIND is a story of family, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is passionate; the characters are struggling to move on with their lives.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In case You Didn’t Know
All the Befores 3.5
And Then One Day
Can’t Help Falling in Love
Last Beautiful Girl
The Way The Story Goes
Since You’ve Been Gone

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Bookbub /

New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

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Last Beautiful Girl Samantha Chase -Review tour

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Last Beautiful Girl (Magnolia Sound #7) by Samantha Chase -Review tour

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date SEPTEMBER 28, 2020

When Kyle Jones let Sydney Albright walk out of his life, he gave up on the idea of settling down. How could he when he broke the heart of the only woman he ever loved? For years he distracted himself with a parade of women, all the while hoping he would see Sydney again.

But he never wanted it to be like this…

Sydney wasn’t prepared to become a mom overnight. When she loses her sister and brother-in-law in a tragic accident, she moves back home to become the caregiver for her heart broken niece. It is no surprise to her when the small town rallies to offer support to one of their own. However, that doesn’t make Kyle showing up on her doorstep any less jarring.

While Kyle claims he is only there to help, Sydney is instantly on edge. Not only did she vow never to fall for him again, but his timing couldn’t be worse. Her niece needs to be her number one priority. Still, seeing the pain in Sydney’s eyes, Kyle won’t turn his back on her… not again.

He always said she was the first beautiful girl he loved and now he’s determined to make her the last.

••••••

REVIEW: LAST BEAUTIFUL GIRL is the sixth instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the people of Magnolia Grove. This is construction worker Kyle Jones, and Sydney Albright’s story line. LAST BEAUTIFUL GIRL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kyle and Sydney) LAST BEAUTIFUL GIRL follows the rebuilding romance and relationship between construction worker Kyle Jones, and Sydney Albright. Twelve years earlier Sydney Albright walked out of Kyle Jones’ life, and in the ensuing years struggled with what was and what will never be but the death of her sister and brother in law left Sydney the guardian of their now twelve year old daughter Hayley, a young girl who continued to struggle with the loss of her parents. Reluctantly moving back to her hometown of Magnolia Grove to raise her sister’s daughter found Sydney wondering if she would be able to face her past, a past that was about to come full circle when reparations are needed on her sister’s home. Enter construction worker Kyle Jones. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Kyle and Sydney, and the back and forth, yin and yang, roller coaster ride that treads the find line of love and hate between our leading couple.

The relationship between Kyle and Sydney is at best, tempestuous, and vitriolic, at its’ worst. Sydney battles between head and heart, unable to forgive Kyle for sins of the past as Kyle desperately tries to make amends but epically fails at every turn. Add a hormonal, pre-teen who has yet to accept the changes in her life, and the relationship between Kyle and Sydney is doomed to fail, before it begins. All of the $ex scenes fade to black or are implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and well-meaning but thoughtless secondary and supporting characters who are constantly at odds with our story line couple. Most believe Kyle is no good for our story line heroine, and constantly point out Kyle’s fault as though he is a serial killer in disguise.

LAST BEAUTIFUL GIRL is a story of love and loss; grief and acceptance; of family and friendships; second chances and moving forward. The premise is captivating; the romance is passionate; the characters are animated but I struggled with the heroine’s acerbic and abrasive attitude towards the man that she loved.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In case You Didn’t Know
All the Befores 3.5
And Then One Day
Can’t Help Falling in Love

Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied for review

 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

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And Then One Day by Samantha Chase-Review & Excerpt tour

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And Then One Day (Magnolia Sound #4) by Samantha Chase-Review & Excerpt tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 28, 2020

Courtney Baker is ready to put small town life—and the man she can’t have—behind her. Years of secretly crushing on her best friend’s older brother have led nowhere and she’s finally ready to move on. It would have been a great plan had she not drunkenly blurted out all her feelings and kissed him. At least she’ll be able to forget all about it when she leaves town in less than 48 hours.

It takes a lot to surprise Dean Jones, but a kiss from the girl he’s been secretly attracted to for years does just that. All it takes it one kiss for him to realize he doesn’t want to let her go. But she’s his sister’s best friend and that’s a line he knows he should never cross. Never mind that she seems determined to leave their small town—and him—behind.

When a storm and a broken car stop Courtney from leaving town, Dean sees perfect opportunity to get her out of his system. But can one night ever be enough?

••••••••

REVIEW: AND THEN ONE DAY is the fourth instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series. This is auto mechanic Dean Jones, and dental hygienist Courtney Baker’s story line. AND THEN ONE DAY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Courtney and Dean) AND THEN ONE DAY follows the best friend’s brother relationship between auto mechanic Dean Jones, and dental hygienist Courtney Baker. Courtney Baker has been in love with her best friend’s older brother since she was a teen but Dean Jones is six years older, and Courtney believes Dean considers her nothing more than an annoying little sister. The loss of her job, and her parent’s decision to turn the family home into an Airbnb, finds our heroine looking to make a move, away from the people she knows and loves but when her car breaks down on the way out of town, Courtney will find herself moving in with the Dean Jones, the man she has always loved. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dean and Courtney, and the potential fall-out as Dean’s sister Scarlett conspires to keep Courtney in Magnolia Sound, a conspiracy that threatens Courtney’s love for Dean Jones.

The relationship between Dean and Courtney is one of best friend’s older brother, secret crush. Dean had no idea that Courtney saw him as anything other than Scarlett’s brother, and Courtney has pined for Dean from afar, always on the side lines looking in. Dean struggles with their six year age difference, and Courtney battles between head and heart knowing a relationship with Dean could threaten her friendship with Scarlett Jones. The romance is passionate; the $ex scenes fade to black and are all implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Dean’s siblings: Scarlett and her husband Mason (In Case You Didn’t Know 3); brothers Kyle and Hunter, their father Dominic Jones, and grandfather Tommy Flynn. Scarlett is desperate to keep her best friend in Magnolia Sound but her plan backfires as it threatens their friendship on so many levels.

AND THEN ONE DAY is a story of family, friendships, unrequited love, secrets and lies. The small-town romance premise is engaging; the romance is sweet and fun; the characters are energetic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In case You Didn’t Know
All the Befores 3.5

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

“You sure this is what you want to do? Moving?” he asked, his voice low and deep and…concerned.
Looking at him, she sighed. “I was.”
“And now?”
“Now that it’s really happening, I’m…I mean…I wish…” Damn. This was all too depressing to talk about and totally not what she wanted to be doing either. Shaking her head, she said, “Can we change the subject? Please?”
“Sure,” he said with a nod, reaching up to caress her cheek and man-oh-man did it feel good.
Swallowing hard, she studied his face. God, he was so handsome. Why was he still single? Why weren’t there women banging down his door?
Although, that would make things pretty awkward if that were to happen right now.
So many thoughts raced through her head and she finally asked, “What are we doing, Dean?”
For just a second, he seemed as if he was going to move away–like he was doubting what was happening–but luckily it didn’t take long for him to get over it.
“Whatever it is that you want, Court,” he said and she swore she could have orgasmed right there on the spot.
Whatever she wanted? For real? Like…anything? She wondered.
If I only have tonight, then I’m going to go for it all…
Before she could lose her nerve, she moved away from him and instantly missed the feel of his hand on her skin. Standing, she moved in front of him and did her best to hold his gaze as she reached behind herself and unzipped her gown. The sound of the zipper going down seemed overly loud in the room, but Courtney didn’t stay focused on that. It was the look on Dean’s face that mesmerized her.
She swore she saw his hand twitch–as if he couldn’t wait to touch her–but she needed to finish what she was doing. This was her first attempt at a striptease, and dammit, she was going to do it without turning into a trembling mess!
Once the zipper was down, she wrapped an arm around her waist to hold the strapless gown in place–all the while not breaking eye contact. Licking her bottom lip, she dropped her arm, and thankfully, the gown floated down over her breasts, over her hips, and to the floor–leaving her standing in a deep purple thong that matched the gown and her stilettos.
Dean’s hand reached out and landed on her hip as he looked up at her to make sure it was okay. Nodding, she silently willed him to stand and touch her everywhere he could at once, but he was a man who clearly enjoyed taking his time.
And hopefully he would.
Later.
Right now, she wanted the wild and frantic man who kissed her near the boardwalk earlier.
“Dean…”
He stood, his hand still on her hip as he took in the sight of her. She’d been naked with men before, but for some reason, standing here in front of Dean in a thong and heels left her feeling way more exposed than ever before.
“Damn, Court,” he finally said, slowly licking his bottom lip. He met her gaze and his expression was heated and intense and she braced herself for what was to come.
“Don’t hold back. Please.”
As soon as the words were out of her mouth, it was madness. His arms banded around her as his lips claimed hers in a kiss she could only describe as carnal. With his hands on her ass, he lifted her out of the puddle of her dress and she wrapped her legs around his waist. They were a tangle of lips and limbs and it wasn’t elegant or pretty, but it felt so damn good that she was ready to go up in flames.
She figured he was going to lay her down on the sofa and was surprised when he started walking. His lips left hers to kiss along her jaw and neck and her head fell back to give him better access. Her eyes closed and didn’t open until he stopped moving.
His bedroom was dark. That was the only thing she noticed. As Dean slowly lowered her to the bed, she only had eyes for him. Standing back, he stripped off his tuxedo jacket and then the tie.
Looks like I’m not the only one doing a striptease tonight…
Part of her wanted to sit up and help him, but it was hypnotic watching his hands work–slowly unbuttoning his shirt, taking off his cuff links, his belt…
Oh, my…
Clothes hit the floor and when he was finally down to black boxer briefs, her eyes went a little wide.
He was perfection.
She knew Dean had tattoos, but she’d never seen how many. The ones on his arms were visible whenever he wore a t-shirt, but the ones on his chest were completely new to her. Reaching out her hand to him, he joined her on the bed, lying beside her.
Without a word, she rolled toward him and placed her hand on his chest with a whispered, “Wow.”
He smiled but she could feel the rapid beat of his heart under her palm. “You like?”
“Um…yeah,” she said, laughing softly. “I had no idea you had these.” His right arm had a cluster of red roses and a cross with his mother’s name on it, and his left had a very intricate tribal design. On his chest, however, he had a massive lion’s head and the artwork–even in the dim lighting–was spectacular. She was tempted to ask him to turn on a light but figured there was time for that later. Right now, she was simply enjoying having the freedom to touch him.
After several moments, she looked up at him and gave him what she hoped was a sexy smile right before she pulled him in for another kiss. This one was slower, sweeter, but as soon as Dean rolled her onto her back and covered her body with his, it changed–grew more urgent–and pretty soon all Courtney could think of was how much she wanted him.
All of him.
She began to move beneath him, rubbing against him, and just as she had thought earlier, she was all for him taking things slow later. Right now, however, she couldn’t wait. Hell, she’d been waiting for more than ten years to be like this with him and she was beyond impatient.
Her hands began to score down his back until she reached the waistband of his briefs and began pushing them away. His deep chuckle against her lips told her he got the message. But when he still made no move to help her, she broke the kiss.
“Dean?”
“Hmm?”
“Lose the boxers,” she said breathlessly.
“Yes, ma’am.” And as soon as he was done, he surprised her by ridding her of her thong and of her breath when his mouth trailed a hot path from her breasts and downward. As soon as he settled in to please her, Courtney forgot about everything else and enjoyed the ride. 


 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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All the Befores (Magnolia Sound 3.5) by Samantha Chase-a review

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All the Befores (Magnolia Sound 3.5) by Samantha Chase-a review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 10, 2019

Susannah Westbrook never thought she’d find love again.

After a failed marriage, focusing on her children instead of her love life was the best thing to do. Now years later, she’s content with her life. But when she meets Colton Hale, she decides that she wants to be more than just content—she’s ready to take a chance on love once again.

After just a year of being together, Colton is ready to spend forever with Susannah—to give her the happily ever after she deserves. But old insecurities have a way of making a comeback when you least want them to.

Will they be able to get over all their befores for a chance at their happy ever after?

••••••••

REVIEW:ALL THE BEFORES is instalment 3.5 in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook family. This is forty year old contractor Colton Hale, and forty-five year old B&B owner Susannah Westbrook. ALL THE BEFORES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: The late Ezekiel Coleman, one of the original founding members of Magnolia Cove, left each of his heirs something different, a business or business plan, in an effort to bring together his dysfunction family.

Told from several third person perspectives including Susannah and Colton ALL THE BEFORES follows divorcee and single mother of two grown children, Susannah Westbrook, as she struggles moving on with her life. Ezekiel Coleman left the family homestead to Susannah, and our heroine would find purpose in Magnolia Cove turning the homestead into a B&B. Now that her children were falling in love and having babies of their own, Susannah battled memories of the past including the failure of her first marriage, a failure that she continues to blame on herself. Nine months of dating, and having fallen in love, Colton Hale asked Susannah Westbrook for her hand in marriage, but Susannah would panic fearing failing all over again. What ensues is the breakdown of Susannah and Colton’s relationship as Susannah struggles with issues of self-esteem, insecurities, and another possible failure.

The secondary and supporting characters include Susannah’s children Mallory and her fiancé Jake, Sam (and Shelby), as well as their cousin Mason (and Scarlet), and Mason’s mother Georgia Bishop.

ALL THE BEFORES is a quick read; a story of family and friendships, love and happily ever after. Susannah and Colton are a mature couple, having previous relationships that ended in divorce. Colton is hoping to move forward by marrying the woman he loves but Susannah struggles with taking their relationship to the next level and beyond. The premise is heartfelt; the romance is passionate and sweet; the $ex scenes are mostly implied; the characters are energetic and colorful.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In case You Didn’t Know

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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In Case You Didn’t Know by Samantha Chase-Review & Excerpt Tour

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In Case You Didn’t Know (Magnolia Sound #3) by Samantha Chase-Review and Excerpt tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play / Apple /

Goodreads: https://geni.us/oap6tG

Golden child Mason Bishop has finally had enough. Tired of bearing the weight of his parents’ expectations, he’s determined to break free and forge his own path. It’s time for him to go after the things he really wants—including the girl he never forgot.

Scarlett Jones is done being ruled by her insecurities. She’s ready to be see as something other than one of the guys, and she’s done thinking she’s not good enough for the social elite—especially the Bishops.

When he runs into Scarlett at a concert, Mason believes it’s fate bringing them together. But fate only gets you so far. If he wants a real chance with Scarlett, it’s going to take a whole lot of charm to convince her he’s worth it.

Golden child Mason Bishop has finally had enough. Tired of bearing the weight of his parents’ expectations, he’s determined to break free and forge his own path. It’s time for him to go after the things he really wants—including the girl he never forgot.

Scarlett Jones is done being ruled by her insecurities. She’s ready to be see as something other than one of the guys, and she’s done thinking she’s not good enough for the social elite—especially the Bishops.

When he runs into Scarlett at a concert, Mason believes it’s fate bringing them together. But fate only gets you so far. If he wants a real chance with Scarlett, it’s going to take a whole lot of charm to convince her he’s worth it.

••••••••••

REVIEW: IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is the third full-length instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook – Bishop family. This is engineer Mason Bishop, and mechanic/IT specialist Scarlett Jones’ story line. IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Mason and Scarlett) focuses on the estate division of the late Ezekiel Coleman, one of the original founding families of Magnolia Cove. Struggling with his dysfunctional relationship with his mother and father, Mason battles between head and heart as it pertains to the inheritance his grandfather laid out in his will. Hoping to keep his personal and professional business separate, Mason begins to search for something that has alluded our hero most of his life. Raised with the privilege that comes with his family’s wealth and money, Mason is willing to walk away without a backwards glance. Meeting former high school acquaintance Scarlett Jones gives Mason a chance for something more but our heroine struggles with the cavernous difference between the haves and the have-nots. What ensues is the building relationship between Mason and Scarlett, and the potential fall –out as the implications of Mason’s inheritance threaten the people Scarlett knows and loves.

Mason Bishop doesn’t adhere to his mother’s need to keep up appearances in public. Never having wanted to flaunt the family riches, Mason follows a different path, a path that will bring him face to face with the woman with whom he will fall in love. Scarlett Jones is a bit of a reverse snob with a large chip on her shoulder, struggling with the Bishop’s family riches, and her life-long insecurity to be seen as something more than the poor kid on the block. Getting re-acquainted with Mason Bishop found our heroine considering the future, a future threatened by sins of the past.

The relationship between Mason and Scarlett is one of immediate attraction but Scarlett’s preconceived notions, judgemental attitude and numerous assumptions about Mason Bishop were difficult to accept. Our heroine’s bias and animosity towards Mason were troubling, so much so that Scarlett pushed Mason out of her life.

We are introduced to Scarlett’s father Dominic Jones, and her brothers Dean, Kyle and Hunter, and their grandfather Tommy Flynn; Mason’s parents Georgia and Beau Bishop, as well as his sisters Parker and Peyton; cousin Sam Westbrook and Shelby Abbott (A Girl Like You #2).

IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is a story of family, intolerance, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating; the characters are flirty and sassy-their back and forth banter was fun; the romance is sweet-the $ex scenes are all implied. IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW is a small town romance where opposites attract, and past secrets re about to be exposed.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Sunkissed Days
Remind Me
A Girl Like You
In Case You Didn’t Know

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“Don’t go,” he said, moving in shamelessly closer. Scarlett could feel the heat of his body, could smell his cologne and all thoughts of going back to her spot in the nosebleed section were forgotten. “I mean…what’s the hurry?”
Scarlett tried to think up something witty to say, but her mind was a complete blank.
Okay, that wasn’t totally true. She was thinking about how in a perfect world she could have just said yes–that she’d love to go out with him after the concert. Or better yet, that she could just go back to his celebrity section and watch the rest of the show together.
“C’mon,” he said, interrupting her thoughts. “If you won’t go out with me later, hang out for a bit now.”
And then she completely embarrassed and horrified herself.
She giggled.
God, she hated women who did that.
She was one step away from twirling her hair and Scarlett knew she needed to get herself under control.
“Have a drink with me,” he prompted.
“I really just wanted some water.”
“Then we’ll have water.”
Her laugh this time wasn’t quite so girly, but there was a huskiness to it she didn’t recognize either. “You can drink whatever you’d like. You don’t have to be lame just because I am.” Standing this close to him, she could smell the beer on his breath so she knew he was most likely out here to grab another one.
“I don’t think you’re being lame, Jones,” he said playfully, being a total flirt. “I think it’s hot as hell out here and it’s probably the smarter choice than what I was thinking.”
“Well…I try to be practical.”
Wow. Way to sound appealing, dork.
His grin was downright boyish and if she wasn’t mistaken, he moved a little closer. Only…she didn’t feel crowded by him. If anything, she wished she were bold enough to do the same.
“Practical can be good,” he commented. “But sometimes it’s fun to be a little…impulsive.”
Oh my…
Swallowing hard, she nodded. “Are we still talking about beverages?”
And yeah, that totally wasn’t her voice.
Mason let out a low groan and slowly licked his bottom lip and Scarlett couldn’t believe how incredibly attractive she found the move. Her eyes traced the movement and when she looked up and met his steel-blue eyes, she felt like everything around them faded away–the crowds, the noise, the music–and all that was left was the two of them.
It didn’t seem possible and her first thought was how she was just feeling this way because it had been so damn long since she’d been with a guy. But the longer they continued to look at each other, the more she realized it had nothing to do with how much time it had been–it was all him. All Mason. And as much as she wanted to be annoyed by that fact, she couldn’t seem to make that happen. Whatever was happening was happening, and she was more than willing to let it.
What was the harm in hanging out with him for a bit? Hell, what was the harm in flirting? It wasn’t as if this were going anywhere and there was no one around to tell her he was out of her league or to remind him how he shouldn’t be hanging around with someone so beneath his social status. Right now they were just a man and a woman maybe having a drink and a little conversation.
Flirty conversation.
She could do that, right?
For a little while, she could be the girly-girl no one thought she could be and have the full attention of one of the most eligible bachelors in town. How hard could it be?
Doing her best to relax, Scarlett smiled up at Mason. “So, we were going to have an impulsive drink, right?”
His grin was slow and sexy as hell. “Well, that would have been my request for after the show. But since you have plans…”
She shrugged. “Then I guess we should do it now before we both miss the entire concert.” Her tone was light and carefree and she had to admit, it felt good.
“Stay right here,” he said anxiously before sprinting over to the drink kiosk. Scarlett wasn’t sure how he did it, but he managed to be back with two bottles of water in less than a minute. It was almost as if the small crowd parted for him and let him skip to the front of the line.
And seriously, that wouldn’t surprise her at all.
“Thanks,” she said, accepting the drink from him. “But you seriously could have gotten something else.”
“And risk taking too much time away from the little we have?”
Rolling her eyes, she couldn’t suppress her laughter. “Dude, seriously? That has to be the cheesiest line ever!”
Luckily, he laughed with her. “Oh, I don’t know about that. I think I could come up with a few more if you gave me the chance.”
Her curiosity got the better of her and she wanted to know what exactly the infamous Mason Bishop considered to be cheesy pickup lines. “I’m giving you the chance. Lay them on me,” she challenged as she leaned against the cool brick.
His eyes went wide. “That’s how you want to spend our time?”
That just had her laughing again. “I’m sure there are better ways, but I thought I’d see if you were up for the challenge.”
Oh my God…I did not just say that!
His gaze turned a little heated and he took a quick drink before bending down and placing the bottle on the ground. When he straightened, he mimicked her pose against the brick. “Challenge accepted.”
“Bring it on.”
And she only partially meant the cheesy lines.


 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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Remind Me (Magnolia Sound #1) by Samantha Chase- Review & Excerpt Tour

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REMIND ME (Magnolia Sound #1) by Samantha Chase-Review & Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 12, 2019

It’s been years since Mallory Westbrook set foot in Magnolia Sound, but the death of her great-grandfather forces her back. Two weeks to get his affairs in order then she would return to her life in New York. The perfect plan, if not for Jake Summerford—her first love who broke her heart.

Jake always regretted the way things ended with Mallory and now that she’s back in town, he’s hoping they can put the past behind them. As they reconnect, old feelings resurface and Jake realizes that friendship is only the beginning of he wants from Mallory.

With one foot out of the door, Mallory is looking for any excuse to leave Magnolia Sound behind. Forever. Will Jake’s plan to replace the old, painful memories help him finally show her their love deserves another chance?

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REVIEW: REMIND ME is the first full-length instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook family. This is thirty-year old, contractor and architectural designer Jake Summerford, and twenty-four year old IT specialist Mallory Westbrook.

NOTE: For the backstory to Jake and Mallory’s story I recommend reading the series prequel SUNKISSED DAYS

Told from dual third person perspectives (Jake and Mallory) REMIND ME picks up six years after the events of SUNKISSED DAYS where in Jake and Mallory’s summer romance implodes leaving a heart broken Mallory in its’ wake. Fast forward to present day wherein Mallory returns to Magnolia Sound to bury her beloved great-grandfather, a man who saw much more than anyone could have imagined. Rekindling their relationship, Mallory and Jake have yet to come to terms with what happened or why. The reading of the will sheds a spotlight on the past, present and future including the possibility of Mallory returning to Magnolia Sound-for good.

The relationship between Jake and Mallory is one of second chances; a rekindling romance with the potential for something more but also the possibility of an expiry date as Mallory’s time in Magnolia Sound comes to a close. Mallory struggles with the memories of what was, and issues of trust as they pertain to the man she once loved: her immature attitude left something to be desire. Jake is willing to grovel to ensure Mallory knows she means everything and more. The $ex scenes are mostly implied.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including all of the members of the immediate and extended Westbrook family. The reading of Zeke Westbrook’s will let’s everyone know the old man’s plans for the future.

REMIND ME is a story of family, friendships, life and death, second chances and falling in love. The premise is delightful and revealing; the characters are sassy and animated; the romance is passionate. REMIND ME is an encouraging and heart warming look as one family comes to terms with love and loss.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SUNKISSED DAYS.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

“But we were already hanging out,” Mallory reminded him and the look Sam gave her bordered on hysterical. “What? What’s so funny?”
“We all know I’m the third wheel here and the two of you would like nothing more than to be alone, so…I’m leaving,” he said, walking back into the kitchen to put the beer back in the refrigerator. “I’m gonna go home and tell Mom what the plan is–I’m going out to be a good cousin, while you’re here doing…I don’t know…Jake.” He winked. “You two have fun!”
Jake knew he didn’t let out a breath until the back door closed and he saw Sam walk down the deck stairs from the living room window. “Well…that was…awkward.”
“Just a little,” Mallory agreed. “Ugh…why is my brother such a dork?”
Laughing, Jake shifted them until her head was on his shoulder. “I wouldn’t call him a dork, he’s just a little…”
“He’s a dork. Trust me. We’re twins and I’m allowed to say it.” She shook her head. “He’s going to be snarky about this until he leaves.”
“About what?”
“You and me. Us. The fact that he knows what we’re doing.” She groaned. “Now, every time I mention seeing you or doing something, he’s going to make some sort of doofus comment about how I’m doing you. I’m telling you, he’s the worst.”
But Jake couldn’t help but laugh. He didn’t have any siblings so he didn’t understand the dynamics, but from where he was sitting, it was all pretty comical. The fact that they each other and had such obvious affection for each other was a pretty amazing thing. Maybe it was because they were twins or something. All he knew was that he hadn’t met many siblings with the kind of relationship Sam and Mallory had.
Plus, he liked knowing Sam looked out for her when he couldn’t.
And that one single thought had him going still.
This wasn’t going anywhere–this was about passing the time and getting her out of his system. He wasn’t supposed to be thinking about his feelings or hers. This was temporary. They both saw the end before they started up again, so why was he suddenly feeling concerned about how Mallory was going to be when he wasn’t around?
“Jake?” she asked softly, looking up at him. “You okay?”
He nodded. Right now, he didn’t want to talk. Hell, he didn’t want to think either. All he wanted was to feel–feel Mallory’s body against his. Feel her skin under his hands. Feel her breath mingling with his.
Standing, he gently tugged her to her feet before plunging his hands into her hair and giving her a searing kiss. If she was surprised by the sudden change of events, she didn’t show it. If anything, she kissed him back with equal abandon.
So good, he thought. Kissing Mallory was always so damn good…
When he had invited her to come home with him earlier–before Sam showed up–Jake envisioned them coming in and talking and maybe sharing some lazy kisses before he seduced her into staying the night. But as Mallory pressed up against him and purred, he was pretty sure nothing was going to be slow and lazy, and that he was the one being seduced.
And he loved every minute of it.
Without breaking the kiss, they maneuvered across the room and down the hall, stopping once so he could back her against the wall and grind against her. She tore her lips from his and sighed his name like a plea. Reaching down, Jake lifted her until her legs wrapped around his waist and it took every bit of self-control he possessed not to take her right then and there. Her dress was bunched up at her waist and the barely-there panties would be gone with only the slightest of tugs…
“Bed,” he growled against her throat even as he continued to rub against her. “I want you in my bed.”
“Then take me there,” she said breathlessly.
Easier said than done, he thought, forcing himself to walk the last ten feet to his room. At the side of the bed, he simply let himself fall and kept Mallory in his arms. They laughed and rolled until they were comfortable and then he sank back into the kiss.
Mallory tugged at his shirt and once she had it pulled free of his trousers, her nails scraped up his back and it gave him chills. Sitting up quickly, he ripped the shirt off–buttons flying in every direction.
“Wow,” she panted. “That was incredibly sexy.”
“Oh, yeah?” he asked, his own breath coming out roughly. “How do you feel about this?” His hand snaked under her dress and he tugged her tiny panties off–the sound of the fabric ripping seemed insanely loud in the room.
“Oh!” she cried as her hips bucked off the bed. Jake knew what she wanted and he was more than happy to give it to her. In a flash her dress was off. He peeled her bra off with his teeth as she writhed beneath him. “Jake…”
Once he had her completely naked, his self-control completely vanished. His mouth and hands were everywhere. While he licked and suckled at her breasts, his hand was ruthlessly teasing her between her legs. Watching Mallory lose control was one of his favorite pastimes and as he urged her on, he knew it would always be this way. She cried out his name again and again and again and each time it ratcheted his own arousal up more and more.
He hated to move away from her even for a second, but he still had half of his own clothes to discard. Mallory reached for him as he moved away and he smoothed a hand across her stomach. “Soon,” he whispered. “I’m not going anywhere.”


 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

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