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Southern Born Christmas #1
Holiday at Magnolia Bay
When Navy SEAL Drew Lanham sees Jenna Huntley rising out of Magnolia Bay, she reminds him of the goddess of the sea, but he has to ignore her siren’s call as he’s home on a brief leave trying to recover from a devastating mission where he lost a teammate.
Jenna’s more interested in protecting and studying Sea Turtles and building a local hatchery than in men; except when she first locks eyes with Drew, she realizes he just might be the one man who can pull her out of her lab and into his bed to celebrate Christmas Magnolia Bay style.
Jenna’s more interested in protecting and studying Sea Turtles and building a local hatchery than in men; except when she first locks eyes with Drew, she realizes he just might be the one man who can pull her out of her lab and into his bed to celebrate Christmas Magnolia Bay style.
Unknown Binding
First published October 14, 2014
5 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Solheim
21 books1,126 followersTracy Solheim writes books with shirtless men on the cover. Some of them are actually best-sellers. The books, not the men. When she's not writing, she's practicing her curling. . . bottles of wine, that is. She's been known to cook dinner but no more than two nights in a row. Most days, she'd rather be reading, which to her is just necessary research. She lives in the suburbs of Atlanta with her husband and a neurotic Labrador retriever. Her two adult children visit but not often enough. (See the note above about cooking.) Sign up for her newsletter at https://www.tracysolheim.com/ to see what she’s up to. She'll send you a free cookbook from her Chances Inlet series as a thank you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
November 18, 2014
***ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley***
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.
That was my first reaction after finishing his novella. It was simply awww.
Short, sweet, sexy, funny, a little sad. I loved the initial banter between the heroine and hero, I loved the heroine's spunk, the fact she was a military brat helped immensely in her dealing with Drew (the hero), I adored the hero - the strong, silent type, suffering but determined not to show it, not utterly afraid to show off his vulnerabilities, Navy SEAL ('nuff said)...And the sweet (fairy) godmother playing at matchmaker was the cherry on the cake.
Great author's voice, great story, great characterization, great resolution...To sum it up in one word - awww.
Loved it!
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww.
That was my first reaction after finishing his novella. It was simply awww.
Short, sweet, sexy, funny, a little sad. I loved the initial banter between the heroine and hero, I loved the heroine's spunk, the fact she was a military brat helped immensely in her dealing with Drew (the hero), I adored the hero - the strong, silent type, suffering but determined not to show it, not utterly afraid to show off his vulnerabilities, Navy SEAL ('nuff said)...And the sweet (fairy) godmother playing at matchmaker was the cherry on the cake.
Great author's voice, great story, great characterization, great resolution...To sum it up in one word - awww.
Loved it!
September 25, 2014
Due some strange Netgalley mix up this book downloaded in place of another title I requested. I was several chapters into this book before I began to question if this was the right book. After a few attempts at a google search I found that Holiday at Magnolia Bay was the title of the book I was actually reading.
We all know I like my books clean. If there is sex it should fade to black and the door should close. This book didn't do that so I closed the door myself by skipping most of chapter six. The summary makes it clear that Drew is wanting to get Jenna into his bed so this is a book I would not have picked up to read if I'd read the summary. By the time I figured that out I was invested in story line and wanted to know the outcome so I skipped the sex scene and kept reading.
This was well written entertaining story with a great ending and likable characters.
Content: lanuage including a couple uses of the F word, innuendo, sex scene, implied sex
We all know I like my books clean. If there is sex it should fade to black and the door should close. This book didn't do that so I closed the door myself by skipping most of chapter six. The summary makes it clear that Drew is wanting to get Jenna into his bed so this is a book I would not have picked up to read if I'd read the summary. By the time I figured that out I was invested in story line and wanted to know the outcome so I skipped the sex scene and kept reading.
This was well written entertaining story with a great ending and likable characters.
Content: lanuage including a couple uses of the F word, innuendo, sex scene, implied sex
April 9, 2015
This was a really FUN story! And it also has it's emotional and quite relatable moments, but I enjoyed every moment of it.
The lead characters, Drew and Jenna, are very likable and fun, and while this isn't meant to be a lengthy and deep read, you can still get some feels and a great reading experience.
The relationships were believable, despite the really brief plot progress. The love wasn't cringe-worthy or too fast, given how many pages the novella was. It all happened at a nice pace, which I think, is really difficult to do well.
I've never read anything by Solheim before, but after reading this cute little holiday read, I am more interested than ever to check out more of her work!
The lead characters, Drew and Jenna, are very likable and fun, and while this isn't meant to be a lengthy and deep read, you can still get some feels and a great reading experience.
The relationships were believable, despite the really brief plot progress. The love wasn't cringe-worthy or too fast, given how many pages the novella was. It all happened at a nice pace, which I think, is really difficult to do well.
I've never read anything by Solheim before, but after reading this cute little holiday read, I am more interested than ever to check out more of her work!
October 21, 2014
I love Christmas or Holiday books. The story was cute and a little different then your typical holiday romance book. The turtle stuff I found to be really interesting. The main characters had chemistry and were fun to read.
October 27, 2014
3.5 Really liked Drew and Jenna's story and this author's writing. This is one I enjoyed so much I'd like to see it expanded with more details! A great beachy read.
May 9, 2015
Cute little story. Wish the assholes got what was coming to them, but apparently this was too much of a light-hearted story for something like that.
October 21, 2014
Holiday At Magnolia Bay By Tracy Solheim
After a mission goes terribly wrong, ending in the death of a teammate, Navy Seal, Drew Lanham, is forced to take a leave from active-duty. Retreating to his godmother’s beach house in coastal Magnolia Bay, Drew plans to spend the three weeks R&R licking his wounds and catching some rays while the nightmares from his failed op fade. The last thing he wants to do is mingle with the locals. What he doesn’t count on is an early morning encounter with a goddess rising from the sea. His interest is piqued and his body put on alert when he finds out that same woman may or may not be after his godmother’s money.
Marine biologist, Jenna Huntley, has been searching her whole life for a place to call home and Magnolia Bay is that place. Unfortunately, she’s undercutilizing her education giving tours at the town’s turtle rescue center. With the help of an octogenarian patroness, she maps out a proposal to develop a turtle hatchery on-site. Everything is going as planned until the older woman’s godson arrives. Suddenly, nothing is as it seems and Jenna’s future is hanging in the balance, with a sexy warrior pulling all the strings. Her natural tendency is to help the damaged hero, but she’s sworn off letting military men in her life ever again.
Will Drew and Jenna be able to put their pasts behind them and learn to trust their hearts long enough to enjoy their Holiday at Magnolia Bay?
how did Drew Lanham and Jenna Huntley meet?
why has Jenna sworn off letting military men in her life ever again?
will Drew Lanham and Jenna Huntley be more than friends?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
Is Jenna after Drew Lanham godmother’s money?
Holiday At Magnolia Bay By Tracy Solheim is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading Holiday At Magnolia Bay By Tracy Solheim
I am looking forward to reading more books by Tracy Solheim.
A Numbers Game: An Out of Bounds Novella by Tracy Solheim
Risky Game (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Game On (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Foolish Games (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Back to Before (Second Chances) by Tracy Solheim
Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Southern Born Christmas series
Book 1: Holiday in Magnolia Bay by Tracy Solheim
Book 2: Just in Time for Christmas by Kim Boykin
Book 3: A Very Married Christmas by Erika Marks
Book 4: The Trouble with Christmas by Kaira Rouda
After a mission goes terribly wrong, ending in the death of a teammate, Navy Seal, Drew Lanham, is forced to take a leave from active-duty. Retreating to his godmother’s beach house in coastal Magnolia Bay, Drew plans to spend the three weeks R&R licking his wounds and catching some rays while the nightmares from his failed op fade. The last thing he wants to do is mingle with the locals. What he doesn’t count on is an early morning encounter with a goddess rising from the sea. His interest is piqued and his body put on alert when he finds out that same woman may or may not be after his godmother’s money.
Marine biologist, Jenna Huntley, has been searching her whole life for a place to call home and Magnolia Bay is that place. Unfortunately, she’s undercutilizing her education giving tours at the town’s turtle rescue center. With the help of an octogenarian patroness, she maps out a proposal to develop a turtle hatchery on-site. Everything is going as planned until the older woman’s godson arrives. Suddenly, nothing is as it seems and Jenna’s future is hanging in the balance, with a sexy warrior pulling all the strings. Her natural tendency is to help the damaged hero, but she’s sworn off letting military men in her life ever again.
Will Drew and Jenna be able to put their pasts behind them and learn to trust their hearts long enough to enjoy their Holiday at Magnolia Bay?
how did Drew Lanham and Jenna Huntley meet?
why has Jenna sworn off letting military men in her life ever again?
will Drew Lanham and Jenna Huntley be more than friends?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
Is Jenna after Drew Lanham godmother’s money?
Holiday At Magnolia Bay By Tracy Solheim is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading Holiday At Magnolia Bay By Tracy Solheim
I am looking forward to reading more books by Tracy Solheim.
A Numbers Game: An Out of Bounds Novella by Tracy Solheim
Risky Game (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Game On (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Foolish Games (An Out of Bounds Novel) by Tracy Solheim
Back to Before (Second Chances) by Tracy Solheim
Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Southern Born Christmas series
Book 1: Holiday in Magnolia Bay by Tracy Solheim
Book 2: Just in Time for Christmas by Kim Boykin
Book 3: A Very Married Christmas by Erika Marks
Book 4: The Trouble with Christmas by Kaira Rouda
October 22, 2014
I really enjoyed this holiday short. This is centered on Andrew Lanham (Drew) who is at his godmother’s home in Magnolia Bay, South Carolina. He is on R & R. You see Drew is a Navy SEAL who is suffering from PTSD, due to his last mission where he was ordered to board a chopper and leave remains of a SEAL member behind in the desert overseas. You see they have a code that they live by as SEALs “Never leave anyone behind.”
The nightmares and the sounds of the chopper blades in his nightmares bring him to the mission with a earth shattering remorse of being alive. You see Drew felt this need to save everyone due to an event that happened in his past. But with him on orders for the R & R it was killing him. So, instead of heading to San Diego he came to Aunt Evie’s beach home to recoup.
His first day there he meets the “Turtle Goddess of the Sea” as he likes to call her, privately of course. Jenna Huntley but on that first day he only finds out it is Jenna. She had walked out of the ocean to go over to a group of curious boys who were looking at the turtle eggs that were behind the fence clearly marked, “NO TRESSPASSING!” He had seen the boys and wouldn’t have let them hurt anything considering the nest were in front of Aunt Evie’s and she loved them with a passion. But he knew boys were curious and needed to check things out that’s how they learned. But Jenna came out full force and hot as hell at them. She was a curvy sexy as hell vixen. He finally said something in the boy’s defense and she jumps not knowing he was there. She started to turn on him, when he used his SEAL voice like he used with his team on the boys. He explains their wrong they agree and they agreed not to do it again he said, “OK.” She goes to yell at the boys some more after she regains her composer and stare down with him. When she realizes that the boys had already run off. So starts the hotty totty dance between Jenna and Drew.
I loved the batter of this couple throughout this whole story. They were not easy on one another at all and yet they had such a soft spot for one another. They knew there was something there to be leery of but also there was something there to be loved too. That is where the fears come in. Causing so many mistakes that take us all on a wild ride. I give this story 5 stars. Provided by Net Galley.
Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
The nightmares and the sounds of the chopper blades in his nightmares bring him to the mission with a earth shattering remorse of being alive. You see Drew felt this need to save everyone due to an event that happened in his past. But with him on orders for the R & R it was killing him. So, instead of heading to San Diego he came to Aunt Evie’s beach home to recoup.
His first day there he meets the “Turtle Goddess of the Sea” as he likes to call her, privately of course. Jenna Huntley but on that first day he only finds out it is Jenna. She had walked out of the ocean to go over to a group of curious boys who were looking at the turtle eggs that were behind the fence clearly marked, “NO TRESSPASSING!” He had seen the boys and wouldn’t have let them hurt anything considering the nest were in front of Aunt Evie’s and she loved them with a passion. But he knew boys were curious and needed to check things out that’s how they learned. But Jenna came out full force and hot as hell at them. She was a curvy sexy as hell vixen. He finally said something in the boy’s defense and she jumps not knowing he was there. She started to turn on him, when he used his SEAL voice like he used with his team on the boys. He explains their wrong they agree and they agreed not to do it again he said, “OK.” She goes to yell at the boys some more after she regains her composer and stare down with him. When she realizes that the boys had already run off. So starts the hotty totty dance between Jenna and Drew.
I loved the batter of this couple throughout this whole story. They were not easy on one another at all and yet they had such a soft spot for one another. They knew there was something there to be leery of but also there was something there to be loved too. That is where the fears come in. Causing so many mistakes that take us all on a wild ride. I give this story 5 stars. Provided by Net Galley.
Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
October 20, 2014
My Review:
I think this is the first for me...a story centered around a heroine who's a marine biologist that specializes in sea turtles.
Magnolia Bay is where sea turtles hatch and make their amazing journey into the sea. Growing up and visiting this little village transformed Jenna's adult life in that she fell in love with the turtles and preserving their special circle of life. Sharing her passion is Drew's godmother. She also has the money to help support Jenna's dream of a special hatchery so that Jenna can permanently move her studies and efforts to Magnolia Bay.
Drew is in Magnolia Bay because he needs an escape. On his last SEAL mission, he had to leave a downed team member behind and he's haunted by that failure. Nightmares and PTSD bring him to Jenna and her turtles. Before he met her, he didn't honestly think that the recommended sex will help with his mental issues. But after meeting her, he's suddenly rethinking his stance.
This was an interesting book just in that the whole turtle migration is such a fascinating thing. It provided a fun and unusual backdrop for the story and I liked that aspect of it. I also enjoyed the whole family complexities with Drew's family. There is much more going on there than what we get to see on the surface. But that doesn't even compare to Jenna's secrets. I was literally whooping out loud when all her family "issues" came out.
The book was fun and entertaining and I definitely liked it. I recommend it and look forward to more...maybe Drew's brother?? Please...
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I think this is the first for me...a story centered around a heroine who's a marine biologist that specializes in sea turtles.
Magnolia Bay is where sea turtles hatch and make their amazing journey into the sea. Growing up and visiting this little village transformed Jenna's adult life in that she fell in love with the turtles and preserving their special circle of life. Sharing her passion is Drew's godmother. She also has the money to help support Jenna's dream of a special hatchery so that Jenna can permanently move her studies and efforts to Magnolia Bay.
Drew is in Magnolia Bay because he needs an escape. On his last SEAL mission, he had to leave a downed team member behind and he's haunted by that failure. Nightmares and PTSD bring him to Jenna and her turtles. Before he met her, he didn't honestly think that the recommended sex will help with his mental issues. But after meeting her, he's suddenly rethinking his stance.
This was an interesting book just in that the whole turtle migration is such a fascinating thing. It provided a fun and unusual backdrop for the story and I liked that aspect of it. I also enjoyed the whole family complexities with Drew's family. There is much more going on there than what we get to see on the surface. But that doesn't even compare to Jenna's secrets. I was literally whooping out loud when all her family "issues" came out.
The book was fun and entertaining and I definitely liked it. I recommend it and look forward to more...maybe Drew's brother?? Please...
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
October 20, 2014
I really found this to be a good read. Jenna is a gal with too many man problems. Her last BF was a loser more apt to sit on her sofa, using her wifi to gamble online than to notice her sexy lingerie. And, her newest guy--a colleague from Australia who is helping to set up a turtle hatchery project--turns out to be, well, engaged. Yeah, Jenna sure can pick 'em, which is why she wants nothing to do with the strapping military man she meets on the beach. She's sworn off military men--ever since her father, an Admiral, has ceased talking to her.
Drew Lanham is looking for anything that will distract from his memories of leaving a fallen man behind enemy lines. He strived hard to bring his comrade's body home for a funeral, but fell short and it's killing Drew from the inside out. Vacationing in Magnolia Bay, he meets Jenna and feels, for the first time, something other than gut-twisting guilt--he feels attraction.
Jenna and Drew do not fall into bed on the first encounter. They spend a bit of quiet time together, mostly so Drew can ascertain if Jenna and her colleagues are planning to swindle his elderly godmother. (Spoiler: Jenna isn't) Still, this reconnection to civilian life is difficult for Drew. He struggles in silence, but Jenna continues to meet Drew and an arrangement is made for no-strings sex. As it turns out, both Jenna and Drew get deeply connected, for a bit. Drew gets a bit gun-shy...but still, HEA in more ways than one.
Some good steamy scenes, and a lot of heart packed into this novella.
Drew Lanham is looking for anything that will distract from his memories of leaving a fallen man behind enemy lines. He strived hard to bring his comrade's body home for a funeral, but fell short and it's killing Drew from the inside out. Vacationing in Magnolia Bay, he meets Jenna and feels, for the first time, something other than gut-twisting guilt--he feels attraction.
Jenna and Drew do not fall into bed on the first encounter. They spend a bit of quiet time together, mostly so Drew can ascertain if Jenna and her colleagues are planning to swindle his elderly godmother. (Spoiler: Jenna isn't) Still, this reconnection to civilian life is difficult for Drew. He struggles in silence, but Jenna continues to meet Drew and an arrangement is made for no-strings sex. As it turns out, both Jenna and Drew get deeply connected, for a bit. Drew gets a bit gun-shy...but still, HEA in more ways than one.
Some good steamy scenes, and a lot of heart packed into this novella.
October 21, 2014
A sweet Magnolia Bay love story.
Lieutenant commander Andrew "Drew" Lanham is back in Magnolia Bay spending time with his godmother after his last mission goes terrible wrong. No matter how far he ran, he could not escape the memories of what happened on that mission. One morning he encounters a beautiful woman on the beach chasing away some little boys who are tampering with the turtle nests. The turtle goddess has his attention and now he wants to know her better. But, the last thing he needs is to fool around with a local girl and start rumors to upset his godmother.
Marine Biologist Jenna Huntley has one goal, make the Magnolia Bay Turtle Rescue Center a success and prove to her parents she can do something important with her life. With the donation from her long time friend Miss Evie, she can make this dream come true. What she didn't expect was to find a sexy military man staying with her friend. Jenna has sworn off military men because her father is one. She doesn't need this kind of distraction especially after the flop of a relationship she just got out of. She needs to focus on her dream.
Eveline Song wants to leave a legacy for Magnolia Bay and with the help of Jenna, she will be able to do so. She just needs a little extra help from Drew too. Plus, the two of them falling in love would be an added bonus.
I enjoyed how well written this book was. The characters and storyline were fantastic. And, I even learned a little bit about sea turtles too.
Lieutenant commander Andrew "Drew" Lanham is back in Magnolia Bay spending time with his godmother after his last mission goes terrible wrong. No matter how far he ran, he could not escape the memories of what happened on that mission. One morning he encounters a beautiful woman on the beach chasing away some little boys who are tampering with the turtle nests. The turtle goddess has his attention and now he wants to know her better. But, the last thing he needs is to fool around with a local girl and start rumors to upset his godmother.
Marine Biologist Jenna Huntley has one goal, make the Magnolia Bay Turtle Rescue Center a success and prove to her parents she can do something important with her life. With the donation from her long time friend Miss Evie, she can make this dream come true. What she didn't expect was to find a sexy military man staying with her friend. Jenna has sworn off military men because her father is one. She doesn't need this kind of distraction especially after the flop of a relationship she just got out of. She needs to focus on her dream.
Eveline Song wants to leave a legacy for Magnolia Bay and with the help of Jenna, she will be able to do so. She just needs a little extra help from Drew too. Plus, the two of them falling in love would be an added bonus.
I enjoyed how well written this book was. The characters and storyline were fantastic. And, I even learned a little bit about sea turtles too.
October 28, 2014
Jenna Huntley daughter of a career navy man didn’t have a ton of stability growing up, other than the two weeks she spent in Magnolia Bay every summer. There is where her passion started, sea turtles everything about them. It’s what caused her to get her biology degree, what caused her to come back to Magnolia Bay as an adult and now what is causing her to reach out and try to start and international hatchery.
Lt. Commander Andrew Lanham, a navy SEAL and PTSD sufferer. Now on leave as he tries to combat his PTSD he is staying with his godmother in Magnolia Bay. He loves the small town and the peace that he finds there but can he figure out how to get over what he’s seen and what he’s done?
Jenna and Drew have one thing in common Miss Evie and she seems determined to throw them together no matter what but what do a feet firmly planted young lady and a wandering SEAL have in common? Lust, but what happens when he gets called back to duty? Will this be just a duty stop? Or is the future bright this Christmas in Magnolia Bay?
Ms. Solheim has done it again and quickly. In this short novella we are brought back to Magnolia Bay and all that is peaceful and calm. We are given magnificent characters to work with and abundant passion. This is a short read but incredibly entertaining and heartwarming. This is a holiday story for those who don’t believe in the magic of the holidays or true love.
Lt. Commander Andrew Lanham, a navy SEAL and PTSD sufferer. Now on leave as he tries to combat his PTSD he is staying with his godmother in Magnolia Bay. He loves the small town and the peace that he finds there but can he figure out how to get over what he’s seen and what he’s done?
Jenna and Drew have one thing in common Miss Evie and she seems determined to throw them together no matter what but what do a feet firmly planted young lady and a wandering SEAL have in common? Lust, but what happens when he gets called back to duty? Will this be just a duty stop? Or is the future bright this Christmas in Magnolia Bay?
Ms. Solheim has done it again and quickly. In this short novella we are brought back to Magnolia Bay and all that is peaceful and calm. We are given magnificent characters to work with and abundant passion. This is a short read but incredibly entertaining and heartwarming. This is a holiday story for those who don’t believe in the magic of the holidays or true love.
October 13, 2014
This is the first time I've the author's book and let say will not be the last.
It is a sweet love story yet filled with passionate scenes (including saving turtle scene) by the main characters. I personally love the main and secondary characters as well. CAn't wait for the net book in the series if they is any (especially Drew's brother one). Will track any previous book by the author after this. It is a really good book well recommended for light reading.
The story start with Navy SEAL Drew on enforced holiday routine running by the beach encounter with a marine biologist on turtle saving quest, Jenna. Flirt and humorous banters later,heat and hate feelings btw them made the surprise luncheon by Drew's auntie to endorse Jenna's funding to save the turtles startled the couple. Add in a cheating date/boss who happen to be engaged and his fiancée want to out stand Jenna's life work put bumps of her trust issue especially with her past with military men. His team-mate advice to get laid, but sassy spoken woman is the last thing in his mind in order to forget the horror death in his last enlistment. Having PTSD is not a recipe to have a relationship with Jenna eventhough he can't take his eyes off her. Can they both step aside their pride and insecurity and look forward to the future they might have?
ARC given by netgalley for an honest review
It is a sweet love story yet filled with passionate scenes (including saving turtle scene) by the main characters. I personally love the main and secondary characters as well. CAn't wait for the net book in the series if they is any (especially Drew's brother one). Will track any previous book by the author after this. It is a really good book well recommended for light reading.
The story start with Navy SEAL Drew on enforced holiday routine running by the beach encounter with a marine biologist on turtle saving quest, Jenna. Flirt and humorous banters later,heat and hate feelings btw them made the surprise luncheon by Drew's auntie to endorse Jenna's funding to save the turtles startled the couple. Add in a cheating date/boss who happen to be engaged and his fiancée want to out stand Jenna's life work put bumps of her trust issue especially with her past with military men. His team-mate advice to get laid, but sassy spoken woman is the last thing in his mind in order to forget the horror death in his last enlistment. Having PTSD is not a recipe to have a relationship with Jenna eventhough he can't take his eyes off her. Can they both step aside their pride and insecurity and look forward to the future they might have?
ARC given by netgalley for an honest review
September 9, 2016
3.5 stars.
This story had the perfect mix of everything: romance, a little drama, humor and sweetness.
Drew was a tough guy, but I loved how soft and sweet he was with his godmother. He really cared for her and all he did was in her best interest, so no one took advantage of her. He came off a little asshole-y, but it was hard to be mad at him under the circumstances.
Jenna was great, a strong woman who not only cared about the people in her life (which were not many), but also about the community itself and how to save the wildlife that lived there. The interactions with the turtles were really sweet, and at one point we could see that really everyone cared for them, not just Jenna. I really liked Jenna, she might’ve been fooled in love, but she kept believing and dusting herself off. I hated that people hurt her, she did nothing but trust others and they were crap to her (good God that last guy was an ass). That’s why I liked that Drew came into her life. Finally a guy who liked her for her, and not for ulterior reasons.
This was a very enjoyable read and hopefully there will be more to go, since the other side characters seemed interesting as well.
This story had the perfect mix of everything: romance, a little drama, humor and sweetness.
Drew was a tough guy, but I loved how soft and sweet he was with his godmother. He really cared for her and all he did was in her best interest, so no one took advantage of her. He came off a little asshole-y, but it was hard to be mad at him under the circumstances.
Jenna was great, a strong woman who not only cared about the people in her life (which were not many), but also about the community itself and how to save the wildlife that lived there. The interactions with the turtles were really sweet, and at one point we could see that really everyone cared for them, not just Jenna. I really liked Jenna, she might’ve been fooled in love, but she kept believing and dusting herself off. I hated that people hurt her, she did nothing but trust others and they were crap to her (good God that last guy was an ass). That’s why I liked that Drew came into her life. Finally a guy who liked her for her, and not for ulterior reasons.
This was a very enjoyable read and hopefully there will be more to go, since the other side characters seemed interesting as well.
December 20, 2014
I am a huge fan of Christmas-themed books, so when I saw this one on Netgalley I had to give it a shot. It seemed to have all the things that push the interest button for me: Christmas, Navy SEAL, female scientist, Southern story, intriguing animal. And all of those things are present, including an eccentric older matchmaking character (aren't those so much fun?).
My biggest problem with this story is that the bulk of it takes place in September, not December. The HEA scene takes place at the Christmas Flotilla Parade, but to me, that's not a true Christmas story. To me, a Christmas story has a plot line that revolves around Christmas. This story could have been told substituting any major bash and would have worked. But that's my hang up. Otherwise, this was a good solid story. I liked the characters, they were fully fleshed out and believable. Jenna and Drew as a couple balance each other out, with plenty of steamy scenes. Plus Baby Sea Turtles! Who doesn't love baby sea turtles? Overall this was a 3 star read.
My biggest problem with this story is that the bulk of it takes place in September, not December. The HEA scene takes place at the Christmas Flotilla Parade, but to me, that's not a true Christmas story. To me, a Christmas story has a plot line that revolves around Christmas. This story could have been told substituting any major bash and would have worked. But that's my hang up. Otherwise, this was a good solid story. I liked the characters, they were fully fleshed out and believable. Jenna and Drew as a couple balance each other out, with plenty of steamy scenes. Plus Baby Sea Turtles! Who doesn't love baby sea turtles? Overall this was a 3 star read.
October 22, 2014
Andrew Lanham is visiting his godmother in Magnolia Bay. He's on R&R because of the flashbacks he's having. He wants a distraction. He finds one when he meets Jenna Huntley and her sea turtles. She's a marine biologist who is determined to protect this endangered species. Drew and Jenna have a love-hate relationship. He's not sure his godmother should be donating such a large sum of money to build a sea turtle hatchery. While Jenna isn't sure what he's up to but she doesn't trust men. In spite of this, they become lovers. They make such a wonderful couple. Their relationship is very sensual. If only they could commit. I love all the characters. His godmother has meddling down to an art form. She adds so much to the story. Drew' brother caught my interest. He definitely needs his own romance. The seaside setting is perfect, the dialogue is humorous and the romance is passionate. Who could ask for more? Tracy Solheim has created a wonderful feel good story. This is a great start to The Southern Born Christmas series.
November 14, 2014
I've got two words for you for Holiday at Magnolia Bay-simply delightful! This tale of Jenna and Drew was heartwarming, sweet and sexy. The writing flowed well, making this a quick and easy read that captured my attention from start to finish.
Both lead characters were written to endear them to the reader, and make you truly care how they will end up...and root for everything to work out for the two of them. And the supporting characters really helped add to the allure of the story (I'd really like to hear Drew's brother Jack's story!), especially Aunt Evie-she's fantastic!
While most of the story takes place earlier in the year closer to the end of summer, the last part is where the holidays come into play, and it makes for a nice wrap up to the story. The portions of the storyline detailing the sea turtles were so great to read about and actually moved me to look up more information about these wonderful creatures when I was done reading :-)
A recommended read from me, I give Holiday at Magnolia Bay 4.5 stars!
Both lead characters were written to endear them to the reader, and make you truly care how they will end up...and root for everything to work out for the two of them. And the supporting characters really helped add to the allure of the story (I'd really like to hear Drew's brother Jack's story!), especially Aunt Evie-she's fantastic!
While most of the story takes place earlier in the year closer to the end of summer, the last part is where the holidays come into play, and it makes for a nice wrap up to the story. The portions of the storyline detailing the sea turtles were so great to read about and actually moved me to look up more information about these wonderful creatures when I was done reading :-)
A recommended read from me, I give Holiday at Magnolia Bay 4.5 stars!
November 3, 2014
Drew is staying in Magnolia Bay with his godmother while he recovers from a Navy Seal Mission gone bad. He has three weeks to mentally pull himself together so he can return to active duty. Jenna is a marine biologist studying sea turtles and trying to get a local hatchery built in Magnolia Bay. When they meet there is an instant connection that neither of them will admit to. He is trying to protect his godmother's money and he has concerns about her funding the new hatchery. Jenna's dad is a Navy Seal so the last thing she wants is to get involved with Drew. They decide on a summer fling, but can Jenna's heart accept letting Drew go when he returns to active duty. I enjoyed how their relationship unfolded. It was gradual and sweet. They put their pride aside and accepted help from the other person. They soon realize they are stronger together than they are on their own. Great novella. Short and Sweet!
November 7, 2014
Booksandspoons.weebly.com/book-blog
Even though this is listed as a Christmas story, it is so much more than that.
The beautiful Magnolia Bay, with its charming residents, and turtles, mixed with a navy SEAL and marine biologist guaranteed for great entertainment!
Aunt Evie deserves a special mention with her charming maneuvers, funny disposition, and energetic yearn for life.
I always find it commendable, when stories of the heroes are included with the damage a war can and will do. Drew's struggle with PTSD, and sorrow for fallen brother, is deep. But he is able to find new purpose and passion from that heartache.
Jenna and Drew together are both sweet and passionate. I had a bit trouble to connect with them at the beginning, but that was soon resolved.
Heartfelt tale of love, passion, and finding a meaning in the midst of pain. ~ Four spoons
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley for honest and fair review
Even though this is listed as a Christmas story, it is so much more than that.
The beautiful Magnolia Bay, with its charming residents, and turtles, mixed with a navy SEAL and marine biologist guaranteed for great entertainment!
Aunt Evie deserves a special mention with her charming maneuvers, funny disposition, and energetic yearn for life.
I always find it commendable, when stories of the heroes are included with the damage a war can and will do. Drew's struggle with PTSD, and sorrow for fallen brother, is deep. But he is able to find new purpose and passion from that heartache.
Jenna and Drew together are both sweet and passionate. I had a bit trouble to connect with them at the beginning, but that was soon resolved.
Heartfelt tale of love, passion, and finding a meaning in the midst of pain. ~ Four spoons
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley for honest and fair review
November 10, 2014
Posted on What I'm reading
I have to say that Holiday at Magnolia is a cute short read and I hope to see more stories from Magnolia Bay. In the story we have Drew who is on R&R after a mission, and decides to go Magnolia Bay. I think his godmother kind of coaxed him to play a little matchmaker. Anyway, he meets Jenna who is passionate about sea turtles of the bay. Quick read which leads to quick romance. However, both of them have personal issues that have to overcome. Drew with his "I'm a SEAL and it's better for me on my own than have a family" issue, and Jenna who grew up a military brat and wants nothing to do with guys in the service. They make a fantastic pair don't they. Anyway, by the end my eyes were leaking with the sappiness. So, if you are looking for a cute read with a sappy ending, you might find it in Holiday at Magnolia.
Copy provided by author via InkSlinger
I have to say that Holiday at Magnolia is a cute short read and I hope to see more stories from Magnolia Bay. In the story we have Drew who is on R&R after a mission, and decides to go Magnolia Bay. I think his godmother kind of coaxed him to play a little matchmaker. Anyway, he meets Jenna who is passionate about sea turtles of the bay. Quick read which leads to quick romance. However, both of them have personal issues that have to overcome. Drew with his "I'm a SEAL and it's better for me on my own than have a family" issue, and Jenna who grew up a military brat and wants nothing to do with guys in the service. They make a fantastic pair don't they. Anyway, by the end my eyes were leaking with the sappiness. So, if you are looking for a cute read with a sappy ending, you might find it in Holiday at Magnolia.
Copy provided by author via InkSlinger
October 20, 2014
Navy SEAL Andrew Lanham is on leave and visiting his godmother Aunt Evie in Magnolia Bay. With Evie's help, marine biologist Jenna Huntley is determined to find a way to establish a turtle hatchery in the area. When Andrew and Jenna meet, they dislike each other intensely. Andrew believes that Jenna is using Evie for her money and Jenna has no interest in dating anyone in the military even if "his body looks like it was meant for a blind woman to learn Braille on". Holiday At Magnolia Bay by Tracy Solheim is the first book in the Southern Born Christmas series. Filled with sarcastic banter and witty innuendos, I found it a highly enjoyable read. Although the book does contain some profanity and a few spicy scenes, there is nothing lewd.
Thank you to Tule Publishing for the advance reader copy.
Thank you to Tule Publishing for the advance reader copy.
February 14, 2017
I received this eARC as part of a blog tour.
This is one of the sweetest romance stories I have ever read.
Jenna and Drew are cute. The way they meet was pretty entertaining, and though their connection was a little fast to feel entirely believable, I still really enjoyed this book.
Drew is a Navy Seal, and is dealing with some trama from his last mission. Jenna is a marine biologist trying to get a hachery started for sea turtles, and is an Navy Brat who doesn't think any man in the service would ever be willing to put that aside for a family, since that is what she learned from her father's actions.
This was a really short book, but it was packed with a great and very sweet holiday romance. This is not the type of book I normally read, but I can see the appeal to others.
This is one of the sweetest romance stories I have ever read.
Jenna and Drew are cute. The way they meet was pretty entertaining, and though their connection was a little fast to feel entirely believable, I still really enjoyed this book.
Drew is a Navy Seal, and is dealing with some trama from his last mission. Jenna is a marine biologist trying to get a hachery started for sea turtles, and is an Navy Brat who doesn't think any man in the service would ever be willing to put that aside for a family, since that is what she learned from her father's actions.
This was a really short book, but it was packed with a great and very sweet holiday romance. This is not the type of book I normally read, but I can see the appeal to others.
November 13, 2014
This was a very touching story. Drew is a Navy Seal staying with his godmother, Evie, while on leave and he is dealing with PTSD. Jenna is a Marine Biologist who is very close to Drew's godmother and is working on establishing a hatchery to help sea turtles. There is instant chemistry between Drew and Jenna, yet they are both worried that the other is trying to use or manipulate Evie.
I loved the sparks and strengths of the characters and Evie was a wonderful meddling lady who was determined to get Jenna and Drew together. I had to laugh at times because she wasn't exactly being subtle about it either. The ending of this story was perfect. But now I want to know more about Drew's brother, Jack, as well. I hope he gets his own story.
I loved the sparks and strengths of the characters and Evie was a wonderful meddling lady who was determined to get Jenna and Drew together. I had to laugh at times because she wasn't exactly being subtle about it either. The ending of this story was perfect. But now I want to know more about Drew's brother, Jack, as well. I hope he gets his own story.
October 31, 2014
Drew Lanham is in Magnolia Bay, staying with his Aunt Evie, while he tries to recover from flashbacks from his last military mission that went wrong. Jenna Huntley, very close to Evie, is a marine biologist trying to pull together a turtle habitat, something that Evie has always wanted to support.
Jenna knows all about PTSD that plagues Drew. Her father is a Navy Admiral at the Pentagon and she has seen the affects of PTSD many times. Drew and Jenna are attracted to each other but Drew feels he has nothing to offer her and Jenna doesn't want to be involved with a Navy Seal, ever.
Throw in a lying boss and his fiance who only want Evie's money for that habitat, and an attraction too hard to deny, mix them all together and you have a very lovable story.
Jenna knows all about PTSD that plagues Drew. Her father is a Navy Admiral at the Pentagon and she has seen the affects of PTSD many times. Drew and Jenna are attracted to each other but Drew feels he has nothing to offer her and Jenna doesn't want to be involved with a Navy Seal, ever.
Throw in a lying boss and his fiance who only want Evie's money for that habitat, and an attraction too hard to deny, mix them all together and you have a very lovable story.
November 9, 2014
Holiday At Magnolia Bay by Tracy Solheim is a pleasurable, not-to-long read. It reminds me of the Montana series by the same publisher, except that it is set in the South. Since I know these places best, it served only to increase my enjoyment of reading about Drew and Jenna. Miss Evie is just the kind of meddlesome older woman I would love to know. I just love her. Drew and Jenna benefit from her help. Without her, I’m not sure that they could have overcome their fears to find their HEA. When they are together the dialogue is witty, both challenging the other to be more. I’m hoping that there are more godsons and friends that she can get together in the future.
NetGalley provided a copy.
NetGalley provided a copy.
November 14, 2014
An energetic, sweet, holiday read.
Drew is home for the holidays at his godmother's beautiful beach home while on some personal time from the military. Following a mission that hadn't gone to plan and is now haunting him, Drew's godmother has decided to start matchmaking. Thinking that if she introduces the right woman into his life he will not only be able to move past the bad mission, but perhaps end up settling down in her town. Drew had tried nearly all the suggestions his buddies had given him to help keep the flashbacks and bad memories at bay, so far not a single one has helped...maybe he just needed to get laid? So let his godmother match make to her hearts content it may work out in his favor anyways.
Drew is home for the holidays at his godmother's beautiful beach home while on some personal time from the military. Following a mission that hadn't gone to plan and is now haunting him, Drew's godmother has decided to start matchmaking. Thinking that if she introduces the right woman into his life he will not only be able to move past the bad mission, but perhaps end up settling down in her town. Drew had tried nearly all the suggestions his buddies had given him to help keep the flashbacks and bad memories at bay, so far not a single one has helped...maybe he just needed to get laid? So let his godmother match make to her hearts content it may work out in his favor anyways.
October 22, 2014
There is a lot sizzle between the hero and hero.
Drew is a Navy Seal who is trying to find solace at his godmother’s beach house. Suffering PTSD after a mission gone wrong.
Jenna is a Marine Biologist who has loved the island since she was a girl visiting with her parents for vacation. Jenna now works at the marine animal rescue and is trying to make something more of her career by starting a turtle hatchery for the sea turtles.
The time line for the story starts around August and ends with the Holiday Flotilla. The book was well written and had interesting characters. This was a real page turner.
I was given an ARC to read for an honest review.
Drew is a Navy Seal who is trying to find solace at his godmother’s beach house. Suffering PTSD after a mission gone wrong.
Jenna is a Marine Biologist who has loved the island since she was a girl visiting with her parents for vacation. Jenna now works at the marine animal rescue and is trying to make something more of her career by starting a turtle hatchery for the sea turtles.
The time line for the story starts around August and ends with the Holiday Flotilla. The book was well written and had interesting characters. This was a real page turner.
I was given an ARC to read for an honest review.
November 6, 2014
Holiday at Magnolia Bay by Tracy Solheim is book #1 in the Southern Born Christmas series. This book is a quick read that is a sweet holiday romance and is wonderful. Jenna Huntley is a marine biologist who has a dedication and passion for saving sea turtles and also has man issues. Andrew(Drew) Lanham is a Navy seal with bad memories from his last mission. Jenna and Drew meet through Drew's beloved Godmother who wants to help Jenna and the sea turtles. Read how Drew and Jenna work through their feelings to find their HEA Wonderful characters and story and interesting info on turtles.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for a honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for a honest review.
October 22, 2014
A quick read set in Magnolia Bay. Loved the characters, Drew, Navy Seal on a much needed vacations after a bad mission and Jenna a marine biologist at the sea turtle hatchery. Then you have Eve, Drew's Godmother, who likes to meddle into life. Jenna and Drew then decide to be friends with benefits, to help heal Drew but does it lead to more.
Loved the back story of sea turtles, wants me to even go more so the east coast. This is my first Tracy Solheim book and will not be my last. Would love to get a story about Drew's brother, Jack.
I highly recommend this book.
Loved the back story of sea turtles, wants me to even go more so the east coast. This is my first Tracy Solheim book and will not be my last. Would love to get a story about Drew's brother, Jack.
I highly recommend this book.
October 27, 2014
Wow! I loved Holiday At Magnolia Bay! Drew had me hooked from the first with his Navy SEAL background and troubles with flashbacks. Jenna and her passion for establishing a turtle hatchery also got to me, and then there was Aunt Evie in the background. The sizzle between Drew and Jenna was really well written with just the right amount of spice. I did think some of the backing players, Perry and Imogene, were a but plastic, though I suspect that was intentional. I galloped through this book and enjoyed every page. Fantastic holiday reading!
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