This is the second book that I've read in the Sweet Magnolia series, but not the second book in the series. It is book 6. It was given to me as an ARC for review.
I find the books endearing, warm and real. They are satisfying to read and satisfying when finished. They are filled with the flavor of the south and almost of another time, though they are contemporary.
The story
This is the story of Travis and Sarah. Sarah is divorced from Walter and has her friend Raylene living with her. Raylene has escaped from an abusive marriage, but not without scars. Sarah's ex-husband abused her on another level -- he continually put her down and sided with his folks' low opinion of her. Consequently Sarah fights demons left from that experience.
When the book opens she is waitressing for the woman who knows all the scoop about the people in and the town of Serenity, SC.
Enter Travis, who has family in Serenity, but no one knows that yet. There is a lot of speculation as to why he is in town. He sees in Sarah what she doesn't see in herself.
Meantime, Walter realizes what he has lost (and it is lost), begins to make amends, including leaving the family business, and a budding friendship (only) develops with Raylene who calls a spade a spade, even while unable to leave the house because of agoraphobia.
The love story is very sweet and well developed.
My take
I loved the book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
I love spending time in Serenity -- and that pun is intended! and perhaps may have contributed to the name of the town.
Have you read it? or any of Sherryl Woods' books?
It is also available for Kindle.
You can read my review of Honeysuckle Summer here.
Karin
www.savvythinker.com
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I used to be a major fan of Sherryl Wood’s books. Sounds like I’ll have to check them ou again.
I meant Sherryl Woods’ books. I am extremely tired … little sleep and long work day .
I have only read these 3. Two I really liked (5 star) the other was 2.5 star (first of the 3, but the last that I read.) Read the two I liked best first. I have several more of hers from the library, but different series and not all in each series. I’m beginning to read the one that I think is the first in this series, of the older couples (well they are older in the newest series because their kids have grown up.) This is their stories when they were younger.