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Magnolia Brides #1
The Best Laid Wedding Plans
With love in their hearts and crafting the perfect wedding on their minds, the possibilities are endless for the ladies of Lynette Austin's new Magnolia Brides series.
SOME DREAMS ARE WORTH WHATEVER IT TAKES
Jenni Beth Beaumont left her broken heart behind when she took her dream job in Savannah. But after her brother's death, Jenni Beth returns home to help mend her parents' hearts as well as restore their beautiful but crumbling antebellum mansion. New dreams take shape as Jenni Beth sets to work replacing floors and fixing pipes to convert the family homestead into the perfect wedding destination. However, some folks in their small Southern town are determined to see her fail.
Cole Bryson was once the love of Jenni Beth's life, but the charming architectural salvager has plans of his own for the Beaumont family home. As the two butt heads, old turmoil is brought to the surface and Cole and Jenni Beth will have to work through some painful memories and tough realities before they can set their pasts aside and have a second chance at their own happily ever after.
SOME DREAMS ARE WORTH WHATEVER IT TAKES
Jenni Beth Beaumont left her broken heart behind when she took her dream job in Savannah. But after her brother's death, Jenni Beth returns home to help mend her parents' hearts as well as restore their beautiful but crumbling antebellum mansion. New dreams take shape as Jenni Beth sets to work replacing floors and fixing pipes to convert the family homestead into the perfect wedding destination. However, some folks in their small Southern town are determined to see her fail.
Cole Bryson was once the love of Jenni Beth's life, but the charming architectural salvager has plans of his own for the Beaumont family home. As the two butt heads, old turmoil is brought to the surface and Cole and Jenni Beth will have to work through some painful memories and tough realities before they can set their pasts aside and have a second chance at their own happily ever after.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2015
109 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 21, 2015
Idk what it was about this book. It just didn't click for me. Half of my family is from the south and the dialogue was just off for me... It was like a "forced" or "fake" southern accent. Like it was how the author thought a southern person talked, but they aren't really from the south. Like I said.. I can't put my finger on what exactly bugged me about this book.... just that something did. I kept rolling my eyes.
Rating: 2 out of 5
Rating: 2 out of 5
August 12, 2015
*4.5 stars*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca*
June 25, 2016
The Best Laid Wedding Plans by Lynnette Austin, is a fun but very lengthy novel. I never get tired of reading books about weddings, brides, and the minutiae that accompanies all the festivities. This is the first book in the Magnolia Brides series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone.
This story is about Jenni Beth Beaumont, a wannabe wedding planner with a lot of spunk and determination. After years of working for an upscale banquet facility in Savannah Georgia, Jenni Beth decides to move back to her childhood home in Misty Bottoms, a small town about an hour outside of the city. Jenni has big plans for Magnolia House, the historical home in which she grew up in. She wants to convert it into a classy wedding venue. Unfortunately, Magnolia House is in great disrepair and Jenni Beth needs an infusion of cash in order to make it into a viable business. Luckily, she is able to get a bank loan and rally her friends together to make her dream a reality. An added bonus is the possibility of getting her grief stricken parents involved in something new and exciting. After losing their son Wes in the military, they have been unable to fully cope in the present.
Not only was Cole Bryson Wes's best friend, he broke Jenni Beth's heart back in high school. As adults, they shared one amazing night together, but nothing ever happened after that. Now Cole is back in her life helping her resurrect Magnolia House. Cole's success as an architectural salvager and his business acumen, help Jenni Beth immensely. Overtime, they work through their past, grieve for Wes and forge a future together.
I liked this slightly emotional book and the mystery Ms. Austin weaved throughout the storyline. I can't say that I was surprised, however, I enjoyed the way the clues unfolded and subsequently concluded. I found Jenni Beth to be a little whiny at times, but her goodness and ability to put everyone's needs above her own was quite refreshing. Cole's character lacked depth, but his love for Jenni Beth and her family came through with flying colors. Overall, this is a solid read and I look forward to Ms. Austin's next book.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
This story is about Jenni Beth Beaumont, a wannabe wedding planner with a lot of spunk and determination. After years of working for an upscale banquet facility in Savannah Georgia, Jenni Beth decides to move back to her childhood home in Misty Bottoms, a small town about an hour outside of the city. Jenni has big plans for Magnolia House, the historical home in which she grew up in. She wants to convert it into a classy wedding venue. Unfortunately, Magnolia House is in great disrepair and Jenni Beth needs an infusion of cash in order to make it into a viable business. Luckily, she is able to get a bank loan and rally her friends together to make her dream a reality. An added bonus is the possibility of getting her grief stricken parents involved in something new and exciting. After losing their son Wes in the military, they have been unable to fully cope in the present.
Not only was Cole Bryson Wes's best friend, he broke Jenni Beth's heart back in high school. As adults, they shared one amazing night together, but nothing ever happened after that. Now Cole is back in her life helping her resurrect Magnolia House. Cole's success as an architectural salvager and his business acumen, help Jenni Beth immensely. Overtime, they work through their past, grieve for Wes and forge a future together.
I liked this slightly emotional book and the mystery Ms. Austin weaved throughout the storyline. I can't say that I was surprised, however, I enjoyed the way the clues unfolded and subsequently concluded. I found Jenni Beth to be a little whiny at times, but her goodness and ability to put everyone's needs above her own was quite refreshing. Cole's character lacked depth, but his love for Jenni Beth and her family came through with flying colors. Overall, this is a solid read and I look forward to Ms. Austin's next book.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
November 9, 2015
Lynnette Austin is an author who has that easy, natural style I love so much. The sort of author whose representation of the present day and present day twenty-somethings makes you believe in the characters. They live in the present, ACT like they live in the present, and it’s all so much better than most contemporary romance around at the moment.
Austin also creates an excellent atmosphere and transports you to different place. It was well done, even if I can’t agree with everything!
This is very much a romance set in the US South, and all that entails. The thoughts and actions and atmosphere are very, very Southern, down to references to Confederate flags and the “War of Northern Aggression”. These characters didn’t quite go as far as referring to people from further north as “Libtards”, but it was touch-and-go for a while there!
However, early on there was something niggling at me: the way the other female characters were being presented. While our hero had strong bonds and friendships with the male characters, our heroine did not. Her mother was emotionally absent, her friends non-existent, and the only non-grandma female we met was a brash, clichéd Northern woman we are told is like Fran Fine.
And then…
The hero’s ex-girlfriend was introduced:
The rest of the scene involves Kimmie kissing him and giggling and being “seductive” and using filthy language and wearing short and low-cut clothes.
And then the hero’s friend reacts to her:
I’m sorry, but this sort of misogyny and negative stereotyping of women is just not on! It’s done so frequently by romance authors I’m not even sure they realise they’re doing it half the time. Making this woman out to be so awful in order to make our heroine look better was totally unnecessary for the book.
It was hard, but I kept reading, because I really enjoy the author’s voice.
I said not all that long ago that authors tend to give their characters age-inappropriate hopes and dreams. Recently editors have been requesting that people stop sending them so many renovation romances – something I agree with because restoring old houses isn’t something people in their twenties tend to do!
Our hero and heroine are in their mid-twenties. This is not a point in most lives where people are running businesses and taking out massive loans to remodel mansions. I don’t see why the characters couldn’t have been five years older or so. It would have made more sense to me.
So, I have positives and negatives. Basically, this is a highly atmospheric book, and the author really is a very good writer. However, misogyny is something I cannot abide, and if I could edit it out of this book, I would highly recommend this one.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
Austin also creates an excellent atmosphere and transports you to different place. It was well done, even if I can’t agree with everything!
This is very much a romance set in the US South, and all that entails. The thoughts and actions and atmosphere are very, very Southern, down to references to Confederate flags and the “War of Northern Aggression”. These characters didn’t quite go as far as referring to people from further north as “Libtards”, but it was touch-and-go for a while there!
However, early on there was something niggling at me: the way the other female characters were being presented. While our hero had strong bonds and friendships with the male characters, our heroine did not. Her mother was emotionally absent, her friends non-existent, and the only non-grandma female we met was a brash, clichéd Northern woman we are told is like Fran Fine.
And then…
The hero’s ex-girlfriend was introduced:
A high-pitched giggle drifted from the front room. He hung his head. “Kimmie Atherton’s back?”
Beck nodded. “And newly divorced. Second time, too. She’s on the hunt, friend, and you and she have a history.”
…
“Cole!” like fingernails on a chalkboard, the excited shriek sent shudders rippling through him.
He winced and braced himself just in time. She took one leap and plastered herself to him like Saran Wrap on a bowl of his mama’s leftovers.
…
The rest of the scene involves Kimmie kissing him and giggling and being “seductive” and using filthy language and wearing short and low-cut clothes.
And then the hero’s friend reacts to her:
The expression on Beck’s face changed from cat-ate-the-canary to man-smelled-skunk.
I’m sorry, but this sort of misogyny and negative stereotyping of women is just not on! It’s done so frequently by romance authors I’m not even sure they realise they’re doing it half the time. Making this woman out to be so awful in order to make our heroine look better was totally unnecessary for the book.
It was hard, but I kept reading, because I really enjoy the author’s voice.
I said not all that long ago that authors tend to give their characters age-inappropriate hopes and dreams. Recently editors have been requesting that people stop sending them so many renovation romances – something I agree with because restoring old houses isn’t something people in their twenties tend to do!
Our hero and heroine are in their mid-twenties. This is not a point in most lives where people are running businesses and taking out massive loans to remodel mansions. I don’t see why the characters couldn’t have been five years older or so. It would have made more sense to me.
So, I have positives and negatives. Basically, this is a highly atmospheric book, and the author really is a very good writer. However, misogyny is something I cannot abide, and if I could edit it out of this book, I would highly recommend this one.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
May 22, 2016
I love a good underdog story and it's even more fun paired with a tempestuous romance. I had a good time watching a dying town slowly come to life, its people coming together to help each other out, and, eventually, I enjoyed the romance.
The story opens with wedding planner, Jenni Beth Beaumont, deciding to leave her solid, stable Savannah job to go home and help support her grieving parents who have let everything go so that they are in danger of losing the family home. Jenni Beth has to come up with a money earner to restore the finances and feels the old plantation house is the answer. She'll turn it into a destination wedding location. Her plans are ambitious, but doable if the local bank will give her the loan, or so she believes until she really takes a look at her hometown and realize it is dying. But she sure plans to keep an eye on Cole because she is sure he can't be on the up and up.
Cole Bryson was Wes Beaumont's best friend and was used to Jenni Beth tagging along as the kid sister. He hurt her badly back in high school when he stood her up for the prom and then later when he really screwed up by sleeping with her and running. Now she is in difficulties and she doesn't even know the half of it. Jenni Beth is getting set to gamble everything on her ability to pull off her dream even while a scheming banker and his confederate are planning that she fail so they can snag her lucrative bottom land. He has to help her even if she is dead set against letting others help and particularly him. Maybe if he does this, he will finally figure out what to do with the fear and feelings he has for the feisty Jenni Beth.
I found this one a story that was overall enjoyable, but it wasn't a complete win. The heroine drove me nuts for well over half the story. I thought her plans were a great dream and I was rooting for her. I also thought she was a wonderful giving person the way she was respectful and caring of her grieving parents and the people of her town. She came home and never resented dropping her life in the city to clean up her parents mess and work hard for others. But that was one side of the coin. I also thought, like the hero, that she wasn't being realistic about how big of an endeavor she was putting into motion. She seemed to have the idea that because she was giving her all that would automatically deliver victory. So when others want to help -particularly in their fields of expertise where she's an ignoramus- and she gets cranky and grudging about it, I wanted to thump her. Her childish quarreling with the hero, refusing to be a grown up and let him apologize for his past behavior and show that he wants to make up for it, is what really annoyed me. She made him work so hard (not that he didn't deserve a bit of that) and yet the way she was acting I was hard pressed to see why he bothered.
That said, when things started working out, I loved their time spent together. Jenni Beth was so resentful that it was rewarding to see her spend lots of time with Cole and slowly realize that there is a lot more to him than she ever imagined. He's a handsome, cocky guy, but he isn't arrogant. He likes to quietly help people and he has a passion for his reclamation and salvage business. While her temper frustrates him, he is also amused by it. And he respects her drive to succeed and doesn't try to take over. The descriptions of Cole's renovated barn home made me want to visit for real like lucky Jenni Beth. Cole had commitment issues and got hung up on Jenni Beth being his best friend's little sister, but he was still a great guy and took care of others. I was glad when Jenni Beth got over herself and saw this side of him.
The conflict over the deliberate efforts to sabotage her added a nice conflict beyond what was going on with the romance. There is an obvious villain, but also one that is hiding in plain sight. I enjoyed seeing Jenni Beth and the others working to counter the bad guys' efforts. The whole town was working together and that was neat.
So, for the most part, I was delighted by my intro to a new series and author. It's a fade to black type of romance that borders on mostly sweet with a touch of spice. This is for those who enjoy a heartwarming, small town contemporary romance.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with wedding planner, Jenni Beth Beaumont, deciding to leave her solid, stable Savannah job to go home and help support her grieving parents who have let everything go so that they are in danger of losing the family home. Jenni Beth has to come up with a money earner to restore the finances and feels the old plantation house is the answer. She'll turn it into a destination wedding location. Her plans are ambitious, but doable if the local bank will give her the loan, or so she believes until she really takes a look at her hometown and realize it is dying. But she sure plans to keep an eye on Cole because she is sure he can't be on the up and up.
Cole Bryson was Wes Beaumont's best friend and was used to Jenni Beth tagging along as the kid sister. He hurt her badly back in high school when he stood her up for the prom and then later when he really screwed up by sleeping with her and running. Now she is in difficulties and she doesn't even know the half of it. Jenni Beth is getting set to gamble everything on her ability to pull off her dream even while a scheming banker and his confederate are planning that she fail so they can snag her lucrative bottom land. He has to help her even if she is dead set against letting others help and particularly him. Maybe if he does this, he will finally figure out what to do with the fear and feelings he has for the feisty Jenni Beth.
I found this one a story that was overall enjoyable, but it wasn't a complete win. The heroine drove me nuts for well over half the story. I thought her plans were a great dream and I was rooting for her. I also thought she was a wonderful giving person the way she was respectful and caring of her grieving parents and the people of her town. She came home and never resented dropping her life in the city to clean up her parents mess and work hard for others. But that was one side of the coin. I also thought, like the hero, that she wasn't being realistic about how big of an endeavor she was putting into motion. She seemed to have the idea that because she was giving her all that would automatically deliver victory. So when others want to help -particularly in their fields of expertise where she's an ignoramus- and she gets cranky and grudging about it, I wanted to thump her. Her childish quarreling with the hero, refusing to be a grown up and let him apologize for his past behavior and show that he wants to make up for it, is what really annoyed me. She made him work so hard (not that he didn't deserve a bit of that) and yet the way she was acting I was hard pressed to see why he bothered.
That said, when things started working out, I loved their time spent together. Jenni Beth was so resentful that it was rewarding to see her spend lots of time with Cole and slowly realize that there is a lot more to him than she ever imagined. He's a handsome, cocky guy, but he isn't arrogant. He likes to quietly help people and he has a passion for his reclamation and salvage business. While her temper frustrates him, he is also amused by it. And he respects her drive to succeed and doesn't try to take over. The descriptions of Cole's renovated barn home made me want to visit for real like lucky Jenni Beth. Cole had commitment issues and got hung up on Jenni Beth being his best friend's little sister, but he was still a great guy and took care of others. I was glad when Jenni Beth got over herself and saw this side of him.
The conflict over the deliberate efforts to sabotage her added a nice conflict beyond what was going on with the romance. There is an obvious villain, but also one that is hiding in plain sight. I enjoyed seeing Jenni Beth and the others working to counter the bad guys' efforts. The whole town was working together and that was neat.
So, for the most part, I was delighted by my intro to a new series and author. It's a fade to black type of romance that borders on mostly sweet with a touch of spice. This is for those who enjoy a heartwarming, small town contemporary romance.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2015
4.5 stars
The Best Laid Wedding Plans is the first installment in Lynnette Austin's Magnolia Brides series. Set in a small southern town in Georgia, this delightfully charming novel features a very sweet romance and a somewhat poignant storyline.
Jenni Beth Beaumont gives up a lucrative career in Savannah to return home to Misty Bottoms with big plans to turn her family's plantation home into a destination wedding location. The house has fallen in disrepair due to her parents' grief over her older brother's wartime death eighteen months earlier and a financial setback after her father invested in a risky venture. Finally obtaining a loan from a local banker who wants a valuable piece of real estate that she owns, Jenni Beth sets out to achieve her dream with the help of her brother's best friend (and her longtime crush) Cole Bryson.
Jenni Beth is surprised by how much her hometown has changed since she moved away and once she realizes the town is slowly dying, she is more determined than ever to make a go of her business. Her budget for the renovations and upstart for the business is bare bones and she warily (and reluctantly) accepts Cole's offer to help. She is still very attracted to Cole but she has decided to keep things casual between them. Their relationship remains fraught with tension since Jenni Beth is unsure what Cole's motives are for helping her but she mainly keeps him at arms' length due to their very complicated romantic history.
Cole deeply regrets hurting Jenni Beth in the past and although he would like to finally clear the air between them, she is not ready to discuss it with him. Reluctantly agreeing to table the issue for now, he convinces her to accept his help with her renovation project. Although he is aware of Jenni Beth's suspicions, Cole remains reluctant to open up about his reasons for helping her and their interactions are sometimes rather acrimonious. Deciding to keep their relationship platonic is easier said than done and Cole becomes a bit introspective as he tries to understand why he finds it impossible to resist his deepening attraction to her.
Lynnette Austin's Magnolia Brides series is off to a strong beginning with The Best Laid Wedding Plans. The storyline is engaging and well-written with appealing, multi-faceted characters. The small town setting is warm and inviting and adds to the novel's overall appeal. An all around enjoyable story of love and healing that is sure to be a hit with fans of contemporary romance novels.
The Best Laid Wedding Plans is the first installment in Lynnette Austin's Magnolia Brides series. Set in a small southern town in Georgia, this delightfully charming novel features a very sweet romance and a somewhat poignant storyline.
Jenni Beth Beaumont gives up a lucrative career in Savannah to return home to Misty Bottoms with big plans to turn her family's plantation home into a destination wedding location. The house has fallen in disrepair due to her parents' grief over her older brother's wartime death eighteen months earlier and a financial setback after her father invested in a risky venture. Finally obtaining a loan from a local banker who wants a valuable piece of real estate that she owns, Jenni Beth sets out to achieve her dream with the help of her brother's best friend (and her longtime crush) Cole Bryson.
Jenni Beth is surprised by how much her hometown has changed since she moved away and once she realizes the town is slowly dying, she is more determined than ever to make a go of her business. Her budget for the renovations and upstart for the business is bare bones and she warily (and reluctantly) accepts Cole's offer to help. She is still very attracted to Cole but she has decided to keep things casual between them. Their relationship remains fraught with tension since Jenni Beth is unsure what Cole's motives are for helping her but she mainly keeps him at arms' length due to their very complicated romantic history.
Cole deeply regrets hurting Jenni Beth in the past and although he would like to finally clear the air between them, she is not ready to discuss it with him. Reluctantly agreeing to table the issue for now, he convinces her to accept his help with her renovation project. Although he is aware of Jenni Beth's suspicions, Cole remains reluctant to open up about his reasons for helping her and their interactions are sometimes rather acrimonious. Deciding to keep their relationship platonic is easier said than done and Cole becomes a bit introspective as he tries to understand why he finds it impossible to resist his deepening attraction to her.
Lynnette Austin's Magnolia Brides series is off to a strong beginning with The Best Laid Wedding Plans. The storyline is engaging and well-written with appealing, multi-faceted characters. The small town setting is warm and inviting and adds to the novel's overall appeal. An all around enjoyable story of love and healing that is sure to be a hit with fans of contemporary romance novels.
August 31, 2015
Jenni Beth Beaumont has decided to leave behind her successful party planning job in Savannah to return home to help her parents recover from the devastating loss of her brother and also keep them in their beloved home. Their home has been passed down for generations, and after some risky investments her parents are on the brink of losing their family home, and Jenni Beth is not willing to let that happen, so she devises a plan to keep her parents in their home, and also put their tiny little town back on the map. She has always wanted to be a wedding planner, and now provided everything goes according to plan she will finally be able to achieve that dream. What she never expected to find when she returned home though was a certain smooth talking southern charmer who broke her heart...
Cole Bryson has always felt guilty about making a move on his best friends little sister, and breaking her heart. He never meant for things to happen between them, but every time he is near her he just can't help him self, she draws him in, and he completely loses all rational thought. And now that she is back in town, he feels as though it is his duty to look out for her, like he promised her brother that he would, but she isn't really having it, and she wants nothing to do with him. But no matter how hard he tries he just cant stay away...
This was my first time reading a book by this author and I have to say it made a good first impression, so much so, I plan to make a return visit to this series and see what she has in store for all these wonderful characters. I love a good second chance love story, and this one DEFINITELY hit the mark!! If you like second chance love stories with a southern twist...this is the perfect read for you!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for a honest review.
Cole Bryson has always felt guilty about making a move on his best friends little sister, and breaking her heart. He never meant for things to happen between them, but every time he is near her he just can't help him self, she draws him in, and he completely loses all rational thought. And now that she is back in town, he feels as though it is his duty to look out for her, like he promised her brother that he would, but she isn't really having it, and she wants nothing to do with him. But no matter how hard he tries he just cant stay away...
This was my first time reading a book by this author and I have to say it made a good first impression, so much so, I plan to make a return visit to this series and see what she has in store for all these wonderful characters. I love a good second chance love story, and this one DEFINITELY hit the mark!! If you like second chance love stories with a southern twist...this is the perfect read for you!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for a honest review.
October 20, 2015
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
I love this book. It was a really sweet book. We have Jenni Beth and her older brother's best friend Cole. They have a tumultuous relationship in the beginning, but as it pans out, it is an amazing story. I love small town romances. Everyone knows everyone's business. The chemistry between these two is apparent throughout the whole book. Watching this romance unfold will keep you smiling. The slight suspense is a page turner.
"Both women apparently had a knack for glazing over uncomfortable situations. Then again, they were bred south of the Mason-Dixon line."
This romantic tale is just the thing you need as the weather gets colder and you curl up on in your easy chair!
I love this book. It was a really sweet book. We have Jenni Beth and her older brother's best friend Cole. They have a tumultuous relationship in the beginning, but as it pans out, it is an amazing story. I love small town romances. Everyone knows everyone's business. The chemistry between these two is apparent throughout the whole book. Watching this romance unfold will keep you smiling. The slight suspense is a page turner.
"Both women apparently had a knack for glazing over uncomfortable situations. Then again, they were bred south of the Mason-Dixon line."
This romantic tale is just the thing you need as the weather gets colder and you curl up on in your easy chair!
October 21, 2015
Jenni Beth Beaumount is determined to make her dreams come true! Magnolia House is going to be the place for brides to find their happily ever after! Now all she needs to do is fix the house that is falling down around her ears! Send in the cavalry...Cole Bryson was her brother's best friend and always seems to be around, even when Jenni Beth doesn't want him there! Sparks fly as these two try to make Jenni Beth's dreams come true; but what happens when they realize that part of the dream could be them living happily ever after?!
March 30, 2016
Wow. That was lame. And so disjointed--with ideas popping up out of nowhere and broken story lines. And this really got me: during the whole story the female main character had blue eyes; then at the very end, he looks into her "whiskey" colored eyes?! Is whiskey blue now? The character development needed help as well--friends mentioned once and then all of a sudden that friend is the best friend and they need to be at this important part of the book and very little description of people. Ugh.
May 29, 2016
Reviewed at Romance Is Ageless
The Best Laid Wedding Plans is a charming and delightful romance set in the small Southern town of Misty Bottoms, Georgia. Jenni Beth has moved away from home and was working in Savannah. She, and especially her parents, were devastated by the death of her older brother during military action. For a while her own grief prevented her from realizing just how badly her parents were coping. Her beautiful home was in danger from outstanding loans and general neglect when Jenni Beth decided to move back home and rescue those she loved most.
With her background in party planning, Jenni Beth decided to make Magnolia House the ideal place for couples to have their beautiful Southern destination wedding. But first, before those dreams could become reality a lot of work and money had to be poured into her home. And if truth be known, the same went for the small town of Misty Bottoms. Her plan of becoming a wedding planner with a destination wedding venue could bring related businesses to the area – if everything worked out just right, she’d save her home and help the economy of her hometown as well.
But, the best laid plans… always have a few road blocks and snakes in the grass. There was a time when Cole would have been Jenni Beth’s ideal man. The friend of her brother had been a crush for years. But he had stood her up for prom, and walked away after one amazing night later on – finally she admitted that Cole not only wasn’t her ideal man, he also didn’t deserve her at all. Cole saw things a bit differently but he’d never explained his actions and let Jenni Beth leave town. Now they both were in Misty Bottoms, and once again they would be on opposite sides once she realized his plans for her family home.
Jenni Beth got the loan she needed to start her dreams – not realizing that one shady banker and an unseen helper would do everything in their power to destroy her dreams and make her default on the loan. When she did that, these scumbags would gain the very valuable land that she had put up for the loan.
I enjoyed this first story in the Magnolia Brides series very much. Full of small town life – the neighbors who knew everything before you did – the friendships that stood the test of time and were always there to lend a helping hand. Cole and Jenni Beth had a lot of fences to mend between them. And Cole needed to put her dreams ahead of his own plans because that’s what you do when you love someone. It’s a rocky road to a happy ever after for these two. And don’t forget the trouble those “snakes in the grass” are up to.
I believe if you enjoy small town romances with all the nuances that go along with that setting that you will enjoy The Best Laid Wedding Plans. I have the next book in this series and I cannot wait to get started on it.
The Best Laid Wedding Plans is a charming and delightful romance set in the small Southern town of Misty Bottoms, Georgia. Jenni Beth has moved away from home and was working in Savannah. She, and especially her parents, were devastated by the death of her older brother during military action. For a while her own grief prevented her from realizing just how badly her parents were coping. Her beautiful home was in danger from outstanding loans and general neglect when Jenni Beth decided to move back home and rescue those she loved most.
With her background in party planning, Jenni Beth decided to make Magnolia House the ideal place for couples to have their beautiful Southern destination wedding. But first, before those dreams could become reality a lot of work and money had to be poured into her home. And if truth be known, the same went for the small town of Misty Bottoms. Her plan of becoming a wedding planner with a destination wedding venue could bring related businesses to the area – if everything worked out just right, she’d save her home and help the economy of her hometown as well.
But, the best laid plans… always have a few road blocks and snakes in the grass. There was a time when Cole would have been Jenni Beth’s ideal man. The friend of her brother had been a crush for years. But he had stood her up for prom, and walked away after one amazing night later on – finally she admitted that Cole not only wasn’t her ideal man, he also didn’t deserve her at all. Cole saw things a bit differently but he’d never explained his actions and let Jenni Beth leave town. Now they both were in Misty Bottoms, and once again they would be on opposite sides once she realized his plans for her family home.
Jenni Beth got the loan she needed to start her dreams – not realizing that one shady banker and an unseen helper would do everything in their power to destroy her dreams and make her default on the loan. When she did that, these scumbags would gain the very valuable land that she had put up for the loan.
I enjoyed this first story in the Magnolia Brides series very much. Full of small town life – the neighbors who knew everything before you did – the friendships that stood the test of time and were always there to lend a helping hand. Cole and Jenni Beth had a lot of fences to mend between them. And Cole needed to put her dreams ahead of his own plans because that’s what you do when you love someone. It’s a rocky road to a happy ever after for these two. And don’t forget the trouble those “snakes in the grass” are up to.
I believe if you enjoy small town romances with all the nuances that go along with that setting that you will enjoy The Best Laid Wedding Plans. I have the next book in this series and I cannot wait to get started on it.
November 11, 2015
The Best Laid Wedding Plans by Lynette Austin is the 1st book in her new Magnolia Brides series. This was a fun and very nice small town romance, though a bit long.
Jenni Beth Beaumont gives up the job she loves as a wedding planner in Savannah to return home to be with her parents, who have not recovered from the death of her brother. Jenni Beth plans to fix up their home, and turn it into a wedding planning business. Her family’s financial situation, due to bad loans, forces her to ask for a loan to rebuild the house and start the business. The town is slowly falling apart, and Jenni Beth plans could be just the right thing to bring things back to the way they were.
Cole Bryson was Jenni Beth’s late brother’s best friend, whom she also had a crush as a teenager. Cole has sworn to protect Jenni Beth, though she wants nothing to do with him, especially after he stood her up at the prom years before. Cole enjoys his life, with his choice of many women, but he finds himself becoming deeply invested into Jenni Beth’s life.
It is Cole who will accidently discover that the banker offering the loan to Jenni Beth has plans of his own, which will hurt Jenni Beth and her family. Cole is determined to find out more about the land, and protect her. I do enjoy these small town and family oriented romances, and it was nice to see old friends of both Jenni Beth and Cole come and help. I also enjoyed how Jenni Beth worked on helping her parents get back on their feet, and become active again. Nice touch.
The story also becomes a mystery as to who is behind the sabotage as Jenni Beth plans her first small wedding. She races against time with Cole and other friends helping to fix the things destroyed in time for the wedding. But most of all this story is a sweet romance between Jenni Beth and Cole, which is slow to build. Jenni Beth finds herself falling for Cole again, but she cannot allow herself to trust him, and get hurt again. Cole doesn’t want to become serious, but he finds himself thinking about Jenni Beth all the time. Will they be able to open their heart to love each other?
The Best Laid Wedding Plans was a very nice story, with a little of everything….romance, family, friendship, small town, sorrow and mystery. I enjoyed this book, but did feel it could have been a bit shorter. Overall, this really was a fun read.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Jenni Beth Beaumont gives up the job she loves as a wedding planner in Savannah to return home to be with her parents, who have not recovered from the death of her brother. Jenni Beth plans to fix up their home, and turn it into a wedding planning business. Her family’s financial situation, due to bad loans, forces her to ask for a loan to rebuild the house and start the business. The town is slowly falling apart, and Jenni Beth plans could be just the right thing to bring things back to the way they were.
Cole Bryson was Jenni Beth’s late brother’s best friend, whom she also had a crush as a teenager. Cole has sworn to protect Jenni Beth, though she wants nothing to do with him, especially after he stood her up at the prom years before. Cole enjoys his life, with his choice of many women, but he finds himself becoming deeply invested into Jenni Beth’s life.
It is Cole who will accidently discover that the banker offering the loan to Jenni Beth has plans of his own, which will hurt Jenni Beth and her family. Cole is determined to find out more about the land, and protect her. I do enjoy these small town and family oriented romances, and it was nice to see old friends of both Jenni Beth and Cole come and help. I also enjoyed how Jenni Beth worked on helping her parents get back on their feet, and become active again. Nice touch.
The story also becomes a mystery as to who is behind the sabotage as Jenni Beth plans her first small wedding. She races against time with Cole and other friends helping to fix the things destroyed in time for the wedding. But most of all this story is a sweet romance between Jenni Beth and Cole, which is slow to build. Jenni Beth finds herself falling for Cole again, but she cannot allow herself to trust him, and get hurt again. Cole doesn’t want to become serious, but he finds himself thinking about Jenni Beth all the time. Will they be able to open their heart to love each other?
The Best Laid Wedding Plans was a very nice story, with a little of everything….romance, family, friendship, small town, sorrow and mystery. I enjoyed this book, but did feel it could have been a bit shorter. Overall, this really was a fun read.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
April 5, 2016
A story set in Georgia brings to life the ‘image’ that most have of a Southern belle in Jenni Beth, having achieved success in Savannah working for someone else, she’s decided to strike out on her own, and head back home to Magnolia House, her childhood home in Misty Bottoms. The premise is rather quintessentially southern with quirky town names, southern accents, small towns and a rather deep layer of spackle that covers up anything ‘too distressing to discuss in polite company’. Each element manages to enforce that feel, a touch of regression to an earlier and simpler time, creating a world that is as close to idyllic as one might wish.
But real life is never just as the polished memories would have, and Jenni Beth returns to find her house in disrepair and her plans will require a ton of elbow grease and a bucketload of cash. While securing the loan is no issue, the other elements are far more problematic: her parent’s grief over the loss of her brother, gathering competent help for the renovations, discovering who wishes the renovations to not continue, and just WHY Cole is hanging around constantly.
Cole has used the years to build his own reputation and business acumen as an architectural salvager: he’s got experience that Jenni Beth can take advantage of, and he wants to see her succeed. While these two had a moment that turned to nothing, the chemistry between them is evident, even as they are not an instant happy ever after. Their relationship is full of ups and downs, moments to savor and moments where bouncing their heads (collectively and individually) off the nearest sturdy wall.
The story is laden with moments that meander to the end, the drop of clues like breadcrumbs to discover the culprit behind the sabotage of Jenni Beth’s dream, the family interactions, the townsfolk and the gradual development of the relationship between Cole and Jenni Beth slowly unfurl. Not a barn burner read – you’ll step into this world and exist as it tugs at heartstrings. Wholly sentimental, the story leaves you with a sense of a time past, not quite modern in a 21st century way, but enjoyable nonetheless.
I purchased a copy of the title for my own library. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
But real life is never just as the polished memories would have, and Jenni Beth returns to find her house in disrepair and her plans will require a ton of elbow grease and a bucketload of cash. While securing the loan is no issue, the other elements are far more problematic: her parent’s grief over the loss of her brother, gathering competent help for the renovations, discovering who wishes the renovations to not continue, and just WHY Cole is hanging around constantly.
Cole has used the years to build his own reputation and business acumen as an architectural salvager: he’s got experience that Jenni Beth can take advantage of, and he wants to see her succeed. While these two had a moment that turned to nothing, the chemistry between them is evident, even as they are not an instant happy ever after. Their relationship is full of ups and downs, moments to savor and moments where bouncing their heads (collectively and individually) off the nearest sturdy wall.
The story is laden with moments that meander to the end, the drop of clues like breadcrumbs to discover the culprit behind the sabotage of Jenni Beth’s dream, the family interactions, the townsfolk and the gradual development of the relationship between Cole and Jenni Beth slowly unfurl. Not a barn burner read – you’ll step into this world and exist as it tugs at heartstrings. Wholly sentimental, the story leaves you with a sense of a time past, not quite modern in a 21st century way, but enjoyable nonetheless.
I purchased a copy of the title for my own library. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
December 20, 2015
Originally reviewed for www.buriedunderromance.com
THE BEST LAID WEDDING PLANS by Lynnette Austin is the first entry of her new Magnolia Brides series. If this book is any indication, with a few small tweaks, the series should be a big success!
Jenni Beth Beaumont left the small town of Misty Bottoms for Savannah after her heart was broken by her brother’s best friend, Cole Bryson, in high school. After her brother’s death in military action, however, she finds herself returning to her hometown to help her parents fix up their civil-war era mansion that they are no longer able to take care of. Jenni Beth obtains a loan at the bank and has plans to turn the old mansion into a destination wedding venue. She gets help from a surprising source, Cole. Jenni Beth, who is not wanting to rebuild their relationship, is suspicious of Cole’s motivation. She is facing other problems, also, as it becomes apparent that someone is trying to sabotage the efforts to renovate the old mansion.
THE BEST LAID WEDDING PLANS is a well-written, steady novel that holds the reader’s attention from start to finish. The characters, while not overly complex, have enough layers to be interesting as well as likeable. Jenni Beth is especially likeable. She is a strong, southern woman who knows what she wants, how to get it, and isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers in the process.
What would I tweak to get that extra star? I would give Cole just a little more depth, make the mystery a little less predictable, and I would definitely change the name of the town. While I know it’s too late to do that now because the series has already been launched, but every time I read “Misty Bottoms,” I found myself thinking of a stripper instead of a friendly small town in the south!
I’m definitely looking forward to the next novel in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
THE BEST LAID WEDDING PLANS by Lynnette Austin is the first entry of her new Magnolia Brides series. If this book is any indication, with a few small tweaks, the series should be a big success!
Jenni Beth Beaumont left the small town of Misty Bottoms for Savannah after her heart was broken by her brother’s best friend, Cole Bryson, in high school. After her brother’s death in military action, however, she finds herself returning to her hometown to help her parents fix up their civil-war era mansion that they are no longer able to take care of. Jenni Beth obtains a loan at the bank and has plans to turn the old mansion into a destination wedding venue. She gets help from a surprising source, Cole. Jenni Beth, who is not wanting to rebuild their relationship, is suspicious of Cole’s motivation. She is facing other problems, also, as it becomes apparent that someone is trying to sabotage the efforts to renovate the old mansion.
THE BEST LAID WEDDING PLANS is a well-written, steady novel that holds the reader’s attention from start to finish. The characters, while not overly complex, have enough layers to be interesting as well as likeable. Jenni Beth is especially likeable. She is a strong, southern woman who knows what she wants, how to get it, and isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers in the process.
What would I tweak to get that extra star? I would give Cole just a little more depth, make the mystery a little less predictable, and I would definitely change the name of the town. While I know it’s too late to do that now because the series has already been launched, but every time I read “Misty Bottoms,” I found myself thinking of a stripper instead of a friendly small town in the south!
I’m definitely looking forward to the next novel in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 11, 2020
This is a problematic book for me. I enjoyed the setting, dialog, most of the characters, but struggled as other reviewers did with the ongoing I-hate/love-you, unnecessary misunderstandings, the swipes at Northerners, and slut shaming of minor female characters. Other aspects, however, dropped me right out of the story.
Early on, we're introduced to a favorite diner: "Her eye caught the Confederate flag in the corner, the tin sign on the back wall that read 'American by birth, Southern by choice.'" I have to think this was deliberate, a flag planted, if you will, a stand taken. As a middle-aged white woman, this is not a place I would feel welcome.
Halfway through: "'These are part of the house's original set.' She traced a finger along the intricate design on the cake server. 'The Beaumont servants wrapped them in heavy felt and buried them in the rose garden in case any Yankees came snooping around.'" Servants during the Civil War on the family cotton plantation?
Throughout the book, no people of color are described as such or mentioned. In fact, for a small town outside Savannah, Georgia (a state where the *whitest* cities in 2020 average 80-89% white), it's impossible to believe there are no POC. Why, literally, whitewash the entire town? Being colorblind ignores and dismisses way too much.
I finished the book because I was invested in the main characters, but I will not read the others for the reasons mentioned. YMMV and that is as a reading experience should be.
Early on, we're introduced to a favorite diner: "Her eye caught the Confederate flag in the corner, the tin sign on the back wall that read 'American by birth, Southern by choice.'" I have to think this was deliberate, a flag planted, if you will, a stand taken. As a middle-aged white woman, this is not a place I would feel welcome.
Halfway through: "'These are part of the house's original set.' She traced a finger along the intricate design on the cake server. 'The Beaumont servants wrapped them in heavy felt and buried them in the rose garden in case any Yankees came snooping around.'" Servants during the Civil War on the family cotton plantation?
Throughout the book, no people of color are described as such or mentioned. In fact, for a small town outside Savannah, Georgia (a state where the *whitest* cities in 2020 average 80-89% white), it's impossible to believe there are no POC. Why, literally, whitewash the entire town? Being colorblind ignores and dismisses way too much.
I finished the book because I was invested in the main characters, but I will not read the others for the reasons mentioned. YMMV and that is as a reading experience should be.
October 30, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Jenni Beth is moving back home to Misty Bottoms from Savannah to help her parents take care of their home, Magnolia House. They never recovered from losing their son Wes to war, and Jenni Beth ran back to Savannah as soon as the funeral was over, and now they needed help in order to keep the family home. So Jenni Beth decides to open a destination wedding business. She would do all the planning, and have the weddings at the familys plantation home. She ends up running into her brothers best friend, Cole, a man she has been in love with since she was a teenager, and he offers to help her fix up the house, which needs a lot of work in order to be a place that people would want to come get married at. Cole and Jenni Beth had a one night stand years ago, and he had bailed on her when he was supposed to take her to prom, so she has a trust issue with him. As Magnolia House gets fixed up, Jenni Beth and Coles relationship builds. And just for a twist there is an unscrupulous bank manager who wants Jenni Beth to default on her loan so that he can have the land that she used for collateral for the loan she took out for the house. It's a good story with some characters that are very likable, and some not so much. I enjoyed everything about this book and highly recommend it.
November 4, 2015
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review through Wicked Reads.
This was a nice, easy-going read for me. I quickly found myself immersed in the story. The characters were interesting and the dynamics between them well written to catch the reader's emotion. I liked that the author kept the depth of emotion with the romance, friendships, and families in the book while easily expressing their joy, grief, and love. Jenni Beth and Cole's romance was definitely rocky, but amusing and entertaining to see unfold. I really liked the other characters as well. Especially Cole's best friend.
I did find that Cole was slightly misrepresented in the beginning of the book. I thought he was a "rogue" character meant to be disliked, but as I read, it quickly became obvious that it was the opposite. While the story isn't a complex one, I found it to be a good book overall and I look forward to the next one.
I would recommend this to any romance fan looking for something nice and easy to read.
This was a nice, easy-going read for me. I quickly found myself immersed in the story. The characters were interesting and the dynamics between them well written to catch the reader's emotion. I liked that the author kept the depth of emotion with the romance, friendships, and families in the book while easily expressing their joy, grief, and love. Jenni Beth and Cole's romance was definitely rocky, but amusing and entertaining to see unfold. I really liked the other characters as well. Especially Cole's best friend.
I did find that Cole was slightly misrepresented in the beginning of the book. I thought he was a "rogue" character meant to be disliked, but as I read, it quickly became obvious that it was the opposite. While the story isn't a complex one, I found it to be a good book overall and I look forward to the next one.
I would recommend this to any romance fan looking for something nice and easy to read.
October 28, 2015
I was engrossed with this fantastic romance from the first page to the very last.
The plot moves quickly with just enough unexpected twists and turns to keep the reader wondering and waiting for the next challenge to appear. There are challenges, hurts, tragedies and complications but they are matched with joys, the patching up of the past and a second chance to repair the damages of years gone by.
The characters are realistic and well described. Jenni Beth became my good friend to whom I wanted to give a big hug and make things all better for her. In order for a book to meet my criteria of a GOOD one, I must be able to identify with at least one of the characters. I had no difficulty do this! Cole, as well as the Beaumont family , appealed to my inner being as I walked their paths of heartache that life often brings.
This is a wonderful romance also involving mystery and intrigue. Why would anyone want Jenni Beth to fail??? How far would they go to make it happen?? Can the past be forgotten and forgiven??
I highly recommend this five star book!! An excellent read.
This book was supplied by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 7, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 / 5 stars
Ah, Jenni Beth and Cole... If her name wasn't any indication, she is as southern as it comes, and with that comes spunk and sarcasm behind her "Bless you, dear"s. These two were incredibly fun to read; I enjoy wedding series {Nora Roberts' BRIDE QUARTET, namely Laurel and Del, was a favorite} and I have a feeling this one will be no different. When Jenni Beth moves back home, she has plans to convert Magnolia House into a wedding venue. Problem? The man helping with the task is a) her older brother's best friend, and b) the man who broke her heart in high school.
With those slight outside factors at play now that they're adults, it was fun watching them maneuver into a friendship/relationship as adults.
This was a sweet, charming read. There were points in the writing that didn't quite grip me, but when I moved past them, I was intrigued and lost in the story. The writing style is effortless and believable. I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the remaining stories.
4.5 / 5 stars
Ah, Jenni Beth and Cole... If her name wasn't any indication, she is as southern as it comes, and with that comes spunk and sarcasm behind her "Bless you, dear"s. These two were incredibly fun to read; I enjoy wedding series {Nora Roberts' BRIDE QUARTET, namely Laurel and Del, was a favorite} and I have a feeling this one will be no different. When Jenni Beth moves back home, she has plans to convert Magnolia House into a wedding venue. Problem? The man helping with the task is a) her older brother's best friend, and b) the man who broke her heart in high school.
With those slight outside factors at play now that they're adults, it was fun watching them maneuver into a friendship/relationship as adults.
This was a sweet, charming read. There were points in the writing that didn't quite grip me, but when I moved past them, I was intrigued and lost in the story. The writing style is effortless and believable. I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the remaining stories.
January 13, 2016
The female main character, Jenni Beth Beaumont goes from working for someone else, to remodeling her childhood home to start her own business. Weddings is the thing, and she wants to help bring as much business as possible to the little town she grew up in. Not only does she have to battle with getting the means to get the renovations done, but she is also battling her heart when it comes to Cole Bryson. Now all Cole wants to do is help Jenni Beth make her dream come true. While also trying to figure out what is all at stake when it comes to this project of hers? He was once the love of her life, and has his own goals for the Beaumont family home. These two character butt heads and have to get over their past issues to see if they could possibly have a happy ever after together. First time I have ever read Lynnette Austin, and I must say it brought tears to my eyes. This story touches close to the heart because I have known someone personally who has gone through the tragedy she talks about in this story. This story is what romance is all about, and completely timeless. The characters have such depth it is like you can their emotions coming off the page.
January 10, 2016
This is the first book by Lynette Austin that I have read and I am so glad that I did! It is sweet and funny, there's a little mystery and a lot of love.
Jenni Beth is a true Southern Lady but don't let that fool you. If you mess with her she's not afraid to put you in your place. She's a strong minded, hard working woman that knows exactly what she wants and will do anything to get it. She is still mourning the loss of her brother and only time will tell if she will be able to fully heal and reconnect the pieces of her family. Then there's Cole... Cole is handsome and full of Southern charm. If you don't fall for his charm and being called "sugar", you will once you get to know him. There is a little fire and ice between the two but it's a wonderful combination! Jenni Beth has to over come a lot of hurdles in order to make her dream come true and if it works out in the end it will be so worth it!
I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. I will definitely keep an eye out for the others to follow in the series.
Jenni Beth is a true Southern Lady but don't let that fool you. If you mess with her she's not afraid to put you in your place. She's a strong minded, hard working woman that knows exactly what she wants and will do anything to get it. She is still mourning the loss of her brother and only time will tell if she will be able to fully heal and reconnect the pieces of her family. Then there's Cole... Cole is handsome and full of Southern charm. If you don't fall for his charm and being called "sugar", you will once you get to know him. There is a little fire and ice between the two but it's a wonderful combination! Jenni Beth has to over come a lot of hurdles in order to make her dream come true and if it works out in the end it will be so worth it!
I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. I will definitely keep an eye out for the others to follow in the series.
January 21, 2016
This story dragged on and on and on....
The constant I want to be with you but I don’t deserve you, do you even want me, was getting on my nerves and making the story a whole helluva lot more unappealing as it went on.
Jenni Beth started out quite interesting as a character, I liked her intentions and I thought there would be more that would make me love her however she became mediocre.
Cole I thought was going to step up and bring the story around but I found him flat.
The side stories were actually nice like some of the townsfolk.
The connection they had between each other, I really wanted it to be stronger and more passionate, as they grew up together and Cole's Best Friend is Jenni Beth's brother.
There are no sexy scenes, it is only implied which is usually fine but I felt that part was completely glossed over and put to an abrupt stop whenever it got so far.
All up for me I did not like it I made myself finish it but the story was all wrong all over the place and I didn’t feel the whole thing was resolved. I will not be continuing on with the series.
The constant I want to be with you but I don’t deserve you, do you even want me, was getting on my nerves and making the story a whole helluva lot more unappealing as it went on.
Jenni Beth started out quite interesting as a character, I liked her intentions and I thought there would be more that would make me love her however she became mediocre.
Cole I thought was going to step up and bring the story around but I found him flat.
The side stories were actually nice like some of the townsfolk.
The connection they had between each other, I really wanted it to be stronger and more passionate, as they grew up together and Cole's Best Friend is Jenni Beth's brother.
There are no sexy scenes, it is only implied which is usually fine but I felt that part was completely glossed over and put to an abrupt stop whenever it got so far.
All up for me I did not like it I made myself finish it but the story was all wrong all over the place and I didn’t feel the whole thing was resolved. I will not be continuing on with the series.
October 28, 2015
Jenni Beth Beaumont is from Chance, Georgia and works in Savannah when she inherits the family home and returns to Misty Bottoms. Cole Bryson owns a salvage business called Traditions in Savannah. He is also from Misty Bottoms and was Jenni Beth's brothers best friend. When Wes was killed in the military Cole had promised he would always look after Jenni and her parents. They were always together as children and Jenni had special feelings for Cole and always had, but he had hurt her and she didn't want to give him the chance to do it again. Jenni's dream is to turn their property into a wedding venue and promote a wedding venue for brides, called Magnolia Brides. When she goes for a loan she finds out who her friends are and how far they are willing to go to make her dream a reality. Cole, especially wants to protect Jenni Beth and help make her dream come true. This is a great read
October 31, 2015
It took me a couple of chapters to get into this book. But, once it got rolling I was HOOKED.
It's been a year and a half after Jenni Beth's brothers death. And back home she feels her entire world is falling apart. Her parents are but shells of themselves, the families ancestral home is disintegrating around them and the families finances are non-existing. The only way she figures to fix this is to go back home, fix the family home and run a business from it.
One big speed bump though, is Cole Bryson, whom she shares an unpleasant past with and whom she keeps tripping over.
Will her business pan out? Can she and Cole manage not to kill one another? Only one way to find out. Read it and find out.
I received this copy of The Best Laid Wedding Plans by Lynette Austin from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a year and a half after Jenni Beth's brothers death. And back home she feels her entire world is falling apart. Her parents are but shells of themselves, the families ancestral home is disintegrating around them and the families finances are non-existing. The only way she figures to fix this is to go back home, fix the family home and run a business from it.
One big speed bump though, is Cole Bryson, whom she shares an unpleasant past with and whom she keeps tripping over.
Will her business pan out? Can she and Cole manage not to kill one another? Only one way to find out. Read it and find out.
I received this copy of The Best Laid Wedding Plans by Lynette Austin from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2015
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This book was lovely to read, I was hooked after just a few chapters and found it to be a warm and cosy page turner, just what I needed for a drab autumn day where I could wrap up warm in a blanket and escape. The characters of Cole and Jenni Beth were great and I wanted Jenni Beth to overcome all that had happened to her and to succeed from the start and I am really looking forward to the rest of the series – 5 stars from me.
This book was lovely to read, I was hooked after just a few chapters and found it to be a warm and cosy page turner, just what I needed for a drab autumn day where I could wrap up warm in a blanket and escape. The characters of Cole and Jenni Beth were great and I wanted Jenni Beth to overcome all that had happened to her and to succeed from the start and I am really looking forward to the rest of the series – 5 stars from me.
November 19, 2015
Good Story Jenni Beth left Savannah to start her own business in her ancestral home, which would get some much needed restoration. Jenni Beth's brother had died while serving his brother and she had a history with one of his best friends, Cole. Cole offered to help on restoration.
I liked this story. I loved the characters and plot. Jenni Beth was tenacious in hanging on to her dream. That was not the only thing she found. I recommend this book.
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review
I liked this story. I loved the characters and plot. Jenni Beth was tenacious in hanging on to her dream. That was not the only thing she found. I recommend this book.
**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review
November 9, 2015
Cole and Jenni Beth start off a bit rocky due to their past, but their relationship developed as they worked together on renovating her house and starting her business. I enjoyed this sweet southern romance, good start to a new series. I'm really looking forward to the next book, I'm really hoping it features their friend Beck!
I received an ARC via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
November 3, 2015
I thought this was a really good book, the story kept me engaged throughout and I liked watching the characters grow through the story. See my full review here: The Best Laid Wedding Plans
April 26, 2016
I want to thank Goodreads First Reads Giveaway and Lynnette Austin, author of The Best Laid Wedding Plans that I won in the Giveaway.
I love a romance where the man and woman start out on opposite sides of an issue and The Best Laid Wedding Plans has that theme. I also love second chance love stories and this one is that too.
I love a romance where the man and woman start out on opposite sides of an issue and The Best Laid Wedding Plans has that theme. I also love second chance love stories and this one is that too.
November 9, 2015
Lynette Austin does it again, writing a novel that has you believing you are part of the book. The descriptiveness the author brings to the characters, the location and the personalities leaves you wanting more. Cover to cover the book is an enjoyable read.
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