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Magnolia Series #2
Beyond the Garden
All is right in Ellie Pringle Hagood’s world. Recently married to the man of her dreams and in anticipation of the big family she’s always wanted, she focuses on restoring the large home she inherited from her grandmother on Charleston’s prestigious Battery. Abbott, the father she adores, lives just down the street from her. She treasures her beloved housekeeper, Maddie, who offers wise counsel and loving support, and is the closest thing to a mother she’s ever known. Two days a week, she volunteers for an art program she piloted at an elementary school. But then, in the midst of all her happiness, comes news that throws Ellie’s life into a tailspin. Her brother-in-law has been murdered in Key West, and her sister, Lia, is wanted for questioning in the investigation. No one in Ellie’s family has seen or heard from Lia in the seven months since she disappeared and left her twin three-year-old daughters in Ellie and Julian’s care. The newlyweds, with several questions nagging at them, fly off to Key West in search of the missing sister. Where is Lia? How is she connected to her husband’s murder? What will become of her twin daughters? The two are only at the beginning of their quest for answers and solutions, and the path they take turns out to be far more torturous and complicated than expected.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2018
1840 people are currently reading
786 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Farley
56 books2,368 followers⭐️USA Today Bestseller⭐️
Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.
A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Ashley loves to hear from her readers.
Visit her website @ http://www.ashleyfarley.com
Sign up for her newsletter @ https://ashleyfarley.com/newsletter-s...
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyFarley...
Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.
A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Ashley loves to hear from her readers.
Visit her website @ http://www.ashleyfarley.com
Sign up for her newsletter @ https://ashleyfarley.com/newsletter-s...
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyFarley...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
April 9, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
She arrived five minutes late for class to discover her students dancing around the room and singing into their fists to the sound of rap music blaring from one of the boys’ iPhones. Their shoes bore holes and their clothes were worn, but they all carried a smartphone of some variety.
Nothing in this life comes without risk, Miss Ellie. But if you don’t take the risk, you don’t get the reward.
My Review:
Beyond the Garden had an active and busy plot with several intense storylines involving lots of tension with family drama, tragedy, mental illness, murder, blackmail, and abuse, as well as the more positive elements of rescue, fresh starts, happy children, and a beach vacation, which is always the best ending for any story. The storylines were engaging, the characters were flawed yet intriguing, and the writing was highly descriptive, emotive, and keenly observant. I have enjoyed each and every book I’ve read by Ms. Farley. I relish her Low Country tales although I always seem to find myself with an intense hankering for shrimp, lobster rolls, and cornbread for several weeks afterward.
She arrived five minutes late for class to discover her students dancing around the room and singing into their fists to the sound of rap music blaring from one of the boys’ iPhones. Their shoes bore holes and their clothes were worn, but they all carried a smartphone of some variety.
Nothing in this life comes without risk, Miss Ellie. But if you don’t take the risk, you don’t get the reward.
My Review:
Beyond the Garden had an active and busy plot with several intense storylines involving lots of tension with family drama, tragedy, mental illness, murder, blackmail, and abuse, as well as the more positive elements of rescue, fresh starts, happy children, and a beach vacation, which is always the best ending for any story. The storylines were engaging, the characters were flawed yet intriguing, and the writing was highly descriptive, emotive, and keenly observant. I have enjoyed each and every book I’ve read by Ms. Farley. I relish her Low Country tales although I always seem to find myself with an intense hankering for shrimp, lobster rolls, and cornbread for several weeks afterward.
April 13, 2018
BEYOND THE GARDEN is Book 2 in the MAGNOLIA SERIES. MAGNOLIA NIGHTS was an amazing 5 star read and the sequel is equally amazing. Each book can be read as a standalone, but if you haven't read MAGNOLIA NIGHTS I recommend that you get both books.
BEYOND THE GARDEN is a novel of
fate, discovery and determination. Life is good for Ellie Pringle Hagood. She married the man of her dreams, they are renovating the huge house she inherited, her sister's three-year -old twins are living with her and Abbot, her dad lives near.
Then something dreadful happens to upset and threaten Ellie's perfect life. Her brother-in-law is brutally murdered in Key West and her twin sister, Lia, is wanted for questioning. Is Lia involved in the murder? Would Lia kill her husband? Is she in Key West? What will happen to Lia's little girls?
There are several storylines in this novel, suspense and twists and turns, some 'fingernail biting' and red herrings, happy times, sad times and scary times. It is about family dynamics, sisters, twins, fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, blended families, love and determination. Ashley Farley expertly weaves this altogether making an exceptional novel. 5 shining stars
Special thanks to Ashley Farley and NetGalley for providing me the privilege of reading an ARC of BEYOND THE GARDEN in exchange for an honest review.
BEYOND THE GARDEN is a novel of
fate, discovery and determination. Life is good for Ellie Pringle Hagood. She married the man of her dreams, they are renovating the huge house she inherited, her sister's three-year -old twins are living with her and Abbot, her dad lives near.
Then something dreadful happens to upset and threaten Ellie's perfect life. Her brother-in-law is brutally murdered in Key West and her twin sister, Lia, is wanted for questioning. Is Lia involved in the murder? Would Lia kill her husband? Is she in Key West? What will happen to Lia's little girls?
There are several storylines in this novel, suspense and twists and turns, some 'fingernail biting' and red herrings, happy times, sad times and scary times. It is about family dynamics, sisters, twins, fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, blended families, love and determination. Ashley Farley expertly weaves this altogether making an exceptional novel. 5 shining stars
Special thanks to Ashley Farley and NetGalley for providing me the privilege of reading an ARC of BEYOND THE GARDEN in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2018
I read Magnolia Nights which is the first book in this series and absolutely loved it! In this book I loved catching up with Ellie and Julian and was quite surprised to find them in such an overwhelming position. Not only are they still taking care of Ellie's niece's but are also searchimg for their mother who is being accused of murder. Lots of drama and suspense with this book! I thank Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this great book! Highly recommend!
April 10, 2018
If you want any indication of how much I loved this book, I read it in one day! Once I started I couldn’t stop! This book continues the story of Julian and Ellie, who we first met in Magnolia Nights. It’s always fun catching up with characters in a sequel, and I was so happy to spend time with them again. This book takes readers on an emotional roller coaster. The relationships in this book are so wonderful, loving and complicated. Ashley Farley has such a talent for writing books about families, and especially sisters. Beyond the Garden is a riveting, heartfelt book about families and parenthood. Just be sure to clear your schedule, because once you start, you will not be able to stop!
February 22, 2023
The story continues of the now grown twins that were separated in early childhood. Ellie continues her life in Charleston by getting married , dealing with a blended family and her twin. Lia, well her life spirals out of control. An interesting conclusion to their story .
September 6, 2018
Book review
Excellent book. I started loving this author when she did the Sweeney sisters series and she hasn't failed yet with her books
Excellent book. I started loving this author when she did the Sweeney sisters series and she hasn't failed yet with her books
March 8, 2018
I have was allowed the ARC book. Thank you Ashley Farley :)
I truly loved this book. Was full of mystery and twists and turns. A Sad story about murder, greed and adoption. I was very engrossed in this book.
I truly loved this book. Was full of mystery and twists and turns. A Sad story about murder, greed and adoption. I was very engrossed in this book.
August 13, 2018
The second installment of lifestyles of the southern wealthy and white
Curiosity got the best of me for this book, just to see if Ashley got her stuff together and stopped being a righteous white woman. Spoiler, she didnt. This actually exceeded my expectations because not only was Maddie still speak like an illiterate slave, her dialogue somehow became worse. We were also introduced to a group of kids that Ellie "taught" at a school. Rich little white Ellie took the poor kids and volunteers her time to teach them art. Sounds nice right? Until they are described as having ratty, worn clothes but new iphones. Awesome Ashley, you knocked that stereotype out of the park. One of the kids loved in a crap, drug house, and of course Ellie is able to bypass ALL of the foster laws to house the adopt this poor CHIL. The book makes mention of all the extravagant furniture, decor, expensive clothing Ellie buys.
As for her sister, who we find out is bipolar, is labeled as evil, unable to be better, etc. I highlighted all of the degrading passages Ashley wrote..you are free to check on my Goodreads account. Thankfully pretty Ellie rescues that situation and is relieved when the sister dies...yea...you read that right. They had a wake (party) the day the sister is found murdered. Their maids really did a good job preparing that In short notice.
In summary, we learned that southern, rich, white folk have it rough with house remodeling, taking kids whose parents aren't rich, and somehow managing to still make it to prestigious dinners with their attorney. I don't know how they manage it all....oh, that's right, because they hire THE BLACK FOLK to raise their kids, cook, clean, grocery shop, and run their mansions.
Curiosity got the best of me for this book, just to see if Ashley got her stuff together and stopped being a righteous white woman. Spoiler, she didnt. This actually exceeded my expectations because not only was Maddie still speak like an illiterate slave, her dialogue somehow became worse. We were also introduced to a group of kids that Ellie "taught" at a school. Rich little white Ellie took the poor kids and volunteers her time to teach them art. Sounds nice right? Until they are described as having ratty, worn clothes but new iphones. Awesome Ashley, you knocked that stereotype out of the park. One of the kids loved in a crap, drug house, and of course Ellie is able to bypass ALL of the foster laws to house the adopt this poor CHIL. The book makes mention of all the extravagant furniture, decor, expensive clothing Ellie buys.
As for her sister, who we find out is bipolar, is labeled as evil, unable to be better, etc. I highlighted all of the degrading passages Ashley wrote..you are free to check on my Goodreads account. Thankfully pretty Ellie rescues that situation and is relieved when the sister dies...yea...you read that right. They had a wake (party) the day the sister is found murdered. Their maids really did a good job preparing that In short notice.
In summary, we learned that southern, rich, white folk have it rough with house remodeling, taking kids whose parents aren't rich, and somehow managing to still make it to prestigious dinners with their attorney. I don't know how they manage it all....oh, that's right, because they hire THE BLACK FOLK to raise their kids, cook, clean, grocery shop, and run their mansions.
March 12, 2018
Amazing! Simply amazing!
Review:
This is the second installment in the Magolia Seires. I read the first book Magnolia Nights and completely taken with the characters, and their story. While this couple be read as a stand-alone lone book, I would certainly tell you to read the first book too, this does give you some back story of the main characters, but reading the first book will tell you how they got to where they are today, in their current situations. Plus the first book was amazing, so of course I’d recommend it.
The last several months, Ellie and her husband Julian have been caring for her sister, Lia’s two daughters with out hesiation. I wouldn’t expect anything less of Ellie either. Ellie and Lia might be twins, but they couldn’t be more different. I believe it had to do with their upbringing, both were brought up in very different homes. Ellie is such a strong and independent woman, who loves with all her heart. She’s been volunteering at the local elementary school teaching children something that is dear to her heart, art.
Lia. Has had her fair share of problems during her life. Drug addiction, abuse, and her upbringing wasn’t all the great of an environment, and I think this was her way of dealing with it. And having mental health issues on top of all of that, doesn’t help. Some of the decisions she makes are just plain selfish espeically that she had now has 2 beautiful daughters. Her struggle with mental health was something that made my heart go out to her though, I know all to well who bipolar disorder does to your life. I wanted to root for her, she made it so hard with her greediness and abandonment of her children.
Julian was just as amazing as I remember him being in the first book. So understanding and patient. No wonder Ellie was so in love with this man. Abbott, her father played a much larger role this time around and I just adored him. He was willing to help his girls in good times and in bad.
The story itself had a few little side plots going on, however they all played into the bigger picture. You have Ellie and Julian’s need for a child of their own. Julian’s daughter from a previous marriage living situation. A little girl that Ellie taught at school, and her journey. A murder mystery, and the search for Lia. All of this together had my emotions all over the place. The way that Farley writes is simply amazing. To have my heart be broken and warmed at the same time is something I don’t get all the time when reading this genre. But Farley did just that.
Beyond the Garden is a beautiful story of family dynamics and love, blended families and mental health issues. Have you tissues handy…
Review:
This is the second installment in the Magolia Seires. I read the first book Magnolia Nights and completely taken with the characters, and their story. While this couple be read as a stand-alone lone book, I would certainly tell you to read the first book too, this does give you some back story of the main characters, but reading the first book will tell you how they got to where they are today, in their current situations. Plus the first book was amazing, so of course I’d recommend it.
The last several months, Ellie and her husband Julian have been caring for her sister, Lia’s two daughters with out hesiation. I wouldn’t expect anything less of Ellie either. Ellie and Lia might be twins, but they couldn’t be more different. I believe it had to do with their upbringing, both were brought up in very different homes. Ellie is such a strong and independent woman, who loves with all her heart. She’s been volunteering at the local elementary school teaching children something that is dear to her heart, art.
Lia. Has had her fair share of problems during her life. Drug addiction, abuse, and her upbringing wasn’t all the great of an environment, and I think this was her way of dealing with it. And having mental health issues on top of all of that, doesn’t help. Some of the decisions she makes are just plain selfish espeically that she had now has 2 beautiful daughters. Her struggle with mental health was something that made my heart go out to her though, I know all to well who bipolar disorder does to your life. I wanted to root for her, she made it so hard with her greediness and abandonment of her children.
Julian was just as amazing as I remember him being in the first book. So understanding and patient. No wonder Ellie was so in love with this man. Abbott, her father played a much larger role this time around and I just adored him. He was willing to help his girls in good times and in bad.
The story itself had a few little side plots going on, however they all played into the bigger picture. You have Ellie and Julian’s need for a child of their own. Julian’s daughter from a previous marriage living situation. A little girl that Ellie taught at school, and her journey. A murder mystery, and the search for Lia. All of this together had my emotions all over the place. The way that Farley writes is simply amazing. To have my heart be broken and warmed at the same time is something I don’t get all the time when reading this genre. But Farley did just that.
Beyond the Garden is a beautiful story of family dynamics and love, blended families and mental health issues. Have you tissues handy…
June 23, 2018
I have read all of Ashley's books and love each and everyone of them. They bring families together, in good times and bad, and there is usually something we can all relate to in our own lives.
This is the 2nd book in the series and I have to admit, it has been awhile since I read the first and couldn't remember everything about the first book....but once I started reading Beyond the Garden, everything came flooding back and I continued on as if not a day had passed since I read the first book and the novella.
Bittersweet is the best way I can think of to describe this book. Ellie has endured a lot in her life and life seems to be going her way. She still has to deal with her sister, Lia, and that causes a lot of heartbreak especially when it comes to Ellie's two nieces. Then there is Ruby, an art student where she volunteers, that seems to have a hard life which sets off her motherly instincts.
I can't imagine what these characters experience and the author does a fantastic job of defining the characters and their lives, dreams, problems, and desires.
I do not know if there will be another book in this series, but look forward to reading one should it be written!
This is the 2nd book in the series and I have to admit, it has been awhile since I read the first and couldn't remember everything about the first book....but once I started reading Beyond the Garden, everything came flooding back and I continued on as if not a day had passed since I read the first book and the novella.
Bittersweet is the best way I can think of to describe this book. Ellie has endured a lot in her life and life seems to be going her way. She still has to deal with her sister, Lia, and that causes a lot of heartbreak especially when it comes to Ellie's two nieces. Then there is Ruby, an art student where she volunteers, that seems to have a hard life which sets off her motherly instincts.
I can't imagine what these characters experience and the author does a fantastic job of defining the characters and their lives, dreams, problems, and desires.
I do not know if there will be another book in this series, but look forward to reading one should it be written!
August 21, 2018
I read this book in one sitting. It is fast paced and I was hanging on for the ride. This book has a little bit of everything. It has murder, loss and love. I loved how the author captured all of the family dynamics. She was spot on with the description of bipolar disorder. I know that as I have it. The characters are complicated and well developed. They are believable. This story flows well from beginning to end. I felt such a wide range of emotions. From love to anger. I highly recommend this book for a good read. Also, I did not read the first book in this series but I feel this can definitely be read as a standalone book. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
February 27, 2018
Beyond the Garden is a follow up novel to Magnolia Nights and takes place in Charleston, SC. The novel is filled with circumstances and emotional passages that deeply affect the life of the main character, Ellie, and are caused by her erratic and unstable twin, Lia. At stake are Lia’s twin daughters that she voluntarily left eith Ellie and now want to use as pawns to get money from Ellie. Throw in murder and things become even more complicated. Ellie is devastated by the turn of events and more than fearful of what Lia will do. External and internal struggles play out until the very end.
April 13, 2018
Ellie is raising her twin nieces after her sister Lia left them with her seven months ago. Lia's husband is murdered in Florida. Ellie has just found out she is pregnant. Lia shows back up wanting more money in exchange for her daughters. During all this Julian's daughter Katie runs away and comes to Julian and Ellie, one of Elllie's art students is being abused at home so they foster her. So they 4 little girls. Story takes some twist and turns but a very good read.
November 20, 2021
Read first book, Magnolia Nights and now this wonderful book. Twins, one is evil, Lia. Leaves her 3 year old twins with other twin Ellie who loves them and wants adopt them. Then there is little Ruby, is is abused and tells her art teacher Ellie. Just a great second book.
May 29, 2019
I love this series. The characters and storylines are so well written. Superb series. I highly recommend. Both are page turners. .
April 15, 2018
This is a continuation of Magnolia Nights, the story of Ellie and Julian and their growing family. It was a sweet story sometimes almost fairy tale like but a good read and I enjoyed it.
December 30, 2023
This is the sequel to magnolia nights. Both books are southern chick lit with a bit of suspense/mystery/thriller thrown in. I liked this book and found it a pleasant, easy read.
April 11, 2018
I was given the opportunity to read an ARC book from NetGalley in return for a honest review.
Can I start out by saying that I love the Magnolia series! Beyond the Garden takes you into a family with much mystery and drama. Never a dull moment, you immediately are trying to figure out if Lia could possibly have committed a murder. I was happy to meet up again with Julian and Ellie from Magnolia Nights. The family is complicated but you know there is a lot of love and emotions that run stronge and deep. If you have read other novels by Ashley Farley than you already know what a fabulous writer she is. Sitting down to read one of her books you become very involved, so many layers and all so enjoyable! I highly recommend this series to anyone who is new to Ashley’s books. Grab a cup of tea and your favorite chair, this novel will grab you at the first chapter.....Bravo Ms. Ashley!!!
Can I start out by saying that I love the Magnolia series! Beyond the Garden takes you into a family with much mystery and drama. Never a dull moment, you immediately are trying to figure out if Lia could possibly have committed a murder. I was happy to meet up again with Julian and Ellie from Magnolia Nights. The family is complicated but you know there is a lot of love and emotions that run stronge and deep. If you have read other novels by Ashley Farley than you already know what a fabulous writer she is. Sitting down to read one of her books you become very involved, so many layers and all so enjoyable! I highly recommend this series to anyone who is new to Ashley’s books. Grab a cup of tea and your favorite chair, this novel will grab you at the first chapter.....Bravo Ms. Ashley!!!
March 19, 2018
Beyond the Garden (Magnolia Series 2) by author Ashley Farley is a wonderful follow-up to the fabulous Magnolia Nights. The book opens with a scene of Lia in Key West. She is off her meds and happens upon a dead body...her estranged husband!
Then the story focuses on Ellie taking care of her sister Lia's twins. Lia has skipped out and has no contact with Ellie and Julian regarding the girls for over seven months. What kind of mother does that? Ellie has a secret reason to feel the daily exhaustion of a new family along with all the kitchen renovations to the old house. Even though Ellie has the resources to launch a legal petition for adoption, she still worries about the possibility of an unfit Lia taking the twins. Ellie also is worried about one of her art students, Ruby, who is in an abusive home. Julians's daughter Katie is avoiding the visits with her father, what could this mean? There seem to be so many layers of conflict to deal with all at once. Her heart is filled with love for children who need her, but Ellie is about to learn a hard lesson which will break your heart as you read! Ellie's kind heart and compassion for children in need could possibly cause a breaking point in her marriage with Julian.
The whole story is like a visit with friends and I enjoyed the book very much. Sweet and wise Maddie is so loveable. Abbott is a pillar of strength for them all. And Lia is a piece of work you may want to smack, but she has a sad life, too.
The story also deals with an adult who has an unstable mental illness, such as bipolar disorder. A mental disorder can be a cause of chaos for the whole family, not only the sufferer who many times will not take the prescribed medicines as directed.
Beyond the Garden is about love, hope, and family!
Then the story focuses on Ellie taking care of her sister Lia's twins. Lia has skipped out and has no contact with Ellie and Julian regarding the girls for over seven months. What kind of mother does that? Ellie has a secret reason to feel the daily exhaustion of a new family along with all the kitchen renovations to the old house. Even though Ellie has the resources to launch a legal petition for adoption, she still worries about the possibility of an unfit Lia taking the twins. Ellie also is worried about one of her art students, Ruby, who is in an abusive home. Julians's daughter Katie is avoiding the visits with her father, what could this mean? There seem to be so many layers of conflict to deal with all at once. Her heart is filled with love for children who need her, but Ellie is about to learn a hard lesson which will break your heart as you read! Ellie's kind heart and compassion for children in need could possibly cause a breaking point in her marriage with Julian.
The whole story is like a visit with friends and I enjoyed the book very much. Sweet and wise Maddie is so loveable. Abbott is a pillar of strength for them all. And Lia is a piece of work you may want to smack, but she has a sad life, too.
The story also deals with an adult who has an unstable mental illness, such as bipolar disorder. A mental disorder can be a cause of chaos for the whole family, not only the sufferer who many times will not take the prescribed medicines as directed.
Beyond the Garden is about love, hope, and family!
February 24, 2018
Beyond the Garden by Ashley Farley is second in her Magnolia series and is storytelling at its best. Although second in the series this could easily be read as a stand-alone as the author fills in enough backstory that the reader is not wondering what is missing. As Ellie's story continues, Farley captivates readers with believable characters whose lives and stories are compelling. They each have a past story that is driving life in the present. Ellie is an amazingly strong and vibrant character--her emotions and actions resonate with readers. They are realistically and powerfully depicted as Ellie tries to keep it all together through the desperate situations that come her way. Lia, her sister, is portrayed realistically too as she struggles with emotional and mental illness. Ellie is caring for Lia's twin girls and nurturing them in a secure and loving home. Will Lia take her girls back and destroy the family that Ellie and Julian are creating? I loved Ellie's relationship with her father who is supportive and so involved in Ellie's family. The story is riveting and moves quickly with a few twists and turns that I did not see coming. The story is permeated with love, mystery, drama, and emotional tension as the author tackles sensitive and gritty subjects--mental illness, foster care, blended families, murder, heartache. Beyond the Garden is a story of family, what it should look like and what it doesn't, a story of sisters, a story of a woman discovering herself in the role of being a mother and wife...a story from a talented author not to be missed.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
June 28, 2019
Pleasant, easy reading. The continuation of a story of a young girl (Ellie) living with her ill mother and abusive grandmother is taken to live with her father who hadn't known about the pregnancy. She has returned to her grandmother's house after the grandmother's death where she learns that she has inherited her grandmother's estate and that she has a twin sister (Lia). Her twin is her opposite and feels that she is entitled to an equal share of the estate. Despite their biological connection, Ellie is unable to like Lia. After a few days, Lia leaves in the middle of the night leaving her (Lia's) twin 3 year old girls with Ellie. Beyond the Garden picks up the story finding Ellie pregnant after a whilwind romance with Julian and Lia in Key West trying to meet up with her husband. Lia has blown through all the money Ellie gave her and has not contacted Ellie or her daughters for 7 months. Lia's husband is murdered and Lia becomes a suspect. She flees Key West and eventually returns to Ellie's to try to extort more money to allow Ellie to keep her twins. The story continues with Ellie and Julian planning to become guardians or to adopt the twin girls and Lia trying to figure the best way to get substantial funds from her sister.
There isn't really a lot of emotion or suspense in Ms. Farley's writing and I got a sense of "what else can I jam in this book to make the story more interesting/exciting. She's never successful. Stlll, it was easy to ready and passed the time.
There isn't really a lot of emotion or suspense in Ms. Farley's writing and I got a sense of "what else can I jam in this book to make the story more interesting/exciting. She's never successful. Stlll, it was easy to ready and passed the time.
February 17, 2022
Book two takes up where book one left off. I was impressed and moved by Ellie's ability to love children who are not her own by blood. The return of Lia, her twin, causes many complications. I didn't love the ending!
"All is right in Ellie Pringle Hagood’s world. Recently married to the man of her dreams and in anticipation of the big family she’s always wanted, she focuses on restoring the large home she inherited from her grandmother on Charleston’s prestigious Battery. Abbott, the father she adores, lives just down the street from her. She treasures her beloved housekeeper, Maddie, who offers wise counsel and loving support, and is the closest thing to a mother she’s ever known. Two days a week, she volunteers for an art program she piloted at an elementary school. But then, in the midst of all her happiness, comes news that throws Ellie’s life into a tailspin. Her brother-in-law has been murdered in Key West, and her sister, Lia, is wanted for questioning in the investigation. No one in Ellie’s family has seen or heard from Lia in the seven months since she disappeared and left her twin three-year-old daughters in Ellie and Julian’s care. The newlyweds, with several questions nagging at them, fly off to Key West in search of the missing sister. Where is Lia? How is she connected to her husband’s murder? What will become of her twin daughters? The two are only at the beginning of their quest for answers and solutions, and the path they take turns out to be far more torturous and complicated than expected." synopsis copied
"All is right in Ellie Pringle Hagood’s world. Recently married to the man of her dreams and in anticipation of the big family she’s always wanted, she focuses on restoring the large home she inherited from her grandmother on Charleston’s prestigious Battery. Abbott, the father she adores, lives just down the street from her. She treasures her beloved housekeeper, Maddie, who offers wise counsel and loving support, and is the closest thing to a mother she’s ever known. Two days a week, she volunteers for an art program she piloted at an elementary school. But then, in the midst of all her happiness, comes news that throws Ellie’s life into a tailspin. Her brother-in-law has been murdered in Key West, and her sister, Lia, is wanted for questioning in the investigation. No one in Ellie’s family has seen or heard from Lia in the seven months since she disappeared and left her twin three-year-old daughters in Ellie and Julian’s care. The newlyweds, with several questions nagging at them, fly off to Key West in search of the missing sister. Where is Lia? How is she connected to her husband’s murder? What will become of her twin daughters? The two are only at the beginning of their quest for answers and solutions, and the path they take turns out to be far more torturous and complicated than expected." synopsis copied
May 13, 2018
Today is Mothers Day and I decided to spend the day relaxing and reading. Good decision because once I started Beyond the Garden, I couldn't put it down until the last page was read. It was a fantastic sequel and it was great to get back to Charleston with Ellie from Book 1 Magnolia Nights. You could read Beyond the Garden as a stand alone but parts of it will make more sense if you read it in order.
Ellie and her new husband Julian are restoring the house on the Battery left to her by her grandmother. They are also taking care of the three year old twins that her twin sister Lia left behind months earlier. As they make the twins part of the family, they are fearful that her sister will try to claim them again despite the fact that she has mental issues. This book has several plots going on - the murder of Lia's husband, custody of Julian's daughter from his first wife, Ellie's pregnancy plus a little girl who Ellie met at the art class that she was teaching that kept me engrossed in the book.
This was a fantastic sequel and I enjoyed every minute of it. The characters are well written - flaws and all and I really cared about what happened to them. This is a story about love and family - not just family by birth but the family that is made out of love.
Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Ellie and her new husband Julian are restoring the house on the Battery left to her by her grandmother. They are also taking care of the three year old twins that her twin sister Lia left behind months earlier. As they make the twins part of the family, they are fearful that her sister will try to claim them again despite the fact that she has mental issues. This book has several plots going on - the murder of Lia's husband, custody of Julian's daughter from his first wife, Ellie's pregnancy plus a little girl who Ellie met at the art class that she was teaching that kept me engrossed in the book.
This was a fantastic sequel and I enjoyed every minute of it. The characters are well written - flaws and all and I really cared about what happened to them. This is a story about love and family - not just family by birth but the family that is made out of love.
Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own.
February 26, 2018
The second book in the Magnolia series continues the story of Ellie and Julian, but it starts out with Lia, Ellie’s twin sister, discovering her estranged husband’s mutilated body. Add being a person of interest in that matter to the rest of Lia’s problems. Meanwhile, her twin daughters are still living with Ellie and Julian and adjusting well. Ellie volunteers at an elementary school teaching art to a select group of students which includes Ruby. Maddie is still here, but age is slowing her down slightly. Abbott, Ellie’s father, plays a major supporting role in this book. Another subplot involves Julian and his daughter Katie. Missed visitation days, calls not returned lead to an unexpected consequence. Oh, did I mention that Ellie is pregnant? Lastly, a new character Lacey is introduced via Abbott. Deftly weaving these subplots together, Ashley Farley has once again written a Best Seller. The ending was a surprise to me - not what I was expecting. This book deals with several current areas of concern- non-custodial parental visitation rights, domestic abuse, drug addiction, pregnancy at an older age to name some major ones. Ashley Farley handles these themes with tact and facts.
I received an advance copy of this book in return for my honest review.
I received an advance copy of this book in return for my honest review.
January 9, 2021
A great read!!!!! This book kept me on the edge of my seat through the whole book!!!!! All is right in Ellie Pringle Hagoods world. Recently married to the man of her dreams and in anticipation of the big family she's always wanted she focuses on restoring the large house she inherited from her grandmother on Charleston's battery. Abbott her father that she adores lives just down the street from her. She treasures her housekeeper Maddie who offers wise counsel and loving support and is the closest thing to a mother she's ever known. In the mist of all this happiness comes news that throws Ellie's life into a tailspin. Her brother in law has been murdered in Key West and her sister Lia is wanted for questioning in the investigation. No one in Ellie's family has seen or heard from Lia in the seven months since she has disappeared and left her twin 3 year old daughters in Ella and her husbands Julian's care. Ellie and Julian fly off to Key West in search of the missing sister. Where is Lia??? How is she connected to her husbands murder? What will become of her twin daughters?? The two are only at the beginning of their quest for answers and solutions and the path they take turns out to be far more complicated then expected.
September 22, 2018
Ah, the dynamics of a family. Ellie and Julian, have created a family of what they call misfits, the twin girls that were left behind when Ellie's sister left, one of Ellie's art student that was abused and Julian's daughter. You can feel the bond of love that is created by them all. Ellie's sister, Lia who left her twin daughters with them 7 months ago has been accused of murdering her husband. They look for Lia, at first to find her so she will sign papers for them to adopt the twins. As the story unfolds, there are many twists and turns that just keeps you reading. After they find Lia, Lia wants a huge settlement to sell her children to her sister and brother-in-law. Ellie decides she doesn't want the twins to grow up and learn they were sold so she decides that the solution would be for her to help her sister stay in the area, get treatment for her bipolar, and they would always be there for the girls. A very hard decision to make but you have to keep reading to find out what happens. As always, Ashley doesn't disappoint, she is a master of telling the stories of families and especially sisters.
March 7, 2018
I would like to take this time to thank author, Ashley Farley for allowing me the pleasure to read an ARC of her new book, Beyond the Garden. This is the second book in this series. It’s a continuation of the storyline from her previous book, Magnolia Nights. However, it could definitely be read as a stand-alone as she fills you in with enough of the backstory that you’re not missing out on any details. The genre of this story is woman’s fiction. It’s about twin sisters who were raised separately and really didn’t have any knowledge or memory of each other. In my opinion, one good sister and one bad. The main character, Ellie, the good twin, is a strong, loving and nurturing individual. Ashley covers many different topics that makes it interesting and has you wanting to read more. Some of those being, mental health issues, greed, murder, and foster care and adoption, just to name a few. This is the 8th book I’ve read by this author, so I consider myself a fan of her writing. If you enjoy reading woman’s fiction stories about families that contain some drama, mystery and even a little suspense, then I think you will enjoy this. I know I love her books and always look forward to reading what might come next. I have rated this book a well deserved 5 stars!
March 29, 2018
Oh my! This book is a real page turner. A murder takes place in the first chapter, for heaven's sake! And then the story-line just keeps spinning from there.
I love the main character, Ellie, who we first meet in book one of this series. She's a very strong, capable woman with an emotional past full of secrets. She is able to overcome all of that to find happiness. But then her sister turns up again after no contact for months, a suspect in the murder of her estranged husband. What's going to happen to Ellie's happy family life—is it going to spiral out of control?
I just love Ashley's stories and I'm so excited for this series. I can't wait to see where it goes from here. I really need to find out what happens to this wonderful family that I have come to love. And I swear, each book she writes just gets better and better. This book in particular has a bit of dark side to it (just check the cover, doesn't it have a dark feel to it?) which just demonstrates the versatility of Ashley's writing talents.
I love the main character, Ellie, who we first meet in book one of this series. She's a very strong, capable woman with an emotional past full of secrets. She is able to overcome all of that to find happiness. But then her sister turns up again after no contact for months, a suspect in the murder of her estranged husband. What's going to happen to Ellie's happy family life—is it going to spiral out of control?
I just love Ashley's stories and I'm so excited for this series. I can't wait to see where it goes from here. I really need to find out what happens to this wonderful family that I have come to love. And I swear, each book she writes just gets better and better. This book in particular has a bit of dark side to it (just check the cover, doesn't it have a dark feel to it?) which just demonstrates the versatility of Ashley's writing talents.
May 24, 2020
I was really looking forward to this book after reading Magnolia Nights; however, this book took a different approach and had a different feel from book one. In the first book, Ellie, the main character, had a mature personality. She was thoughtful and appreciative, but in this book, she seemed to be a bit more immature and whimsical. Some of her decisions didn't make sense for a forty-year-old recently married woman.
The personality of the characters seemed to change in this book only from picking up from the first book four months later. So the personalities through me a bit but it was still engaging enough to keep me going to the next chapter mainly to see if the story would smooth itself out and it did around chapter thirteen. The story moved along but yet became very predictable up until the last few sentences. I really liked the surprise ending and would love to had heard a tad more about Maddie and her Gullah traditions.
Overall, it was a good story. It is not one of her books that I would read again; however, I would recommend it.
The personality of the characters seemed to change in this book only from picking up from the first book four months later. So the personalities through me a bit but it was still engaging enough to keep me going to the next chapter mainly to see if the story would smooth itself out and it did around chapter thirteen. The story moved along but yet became very predictable up until the last few sentences. I really liked the surprise ending and would love to had heard a tad more about Maddie and her Gullah traditions.
Overall, it was a good story. It is not one of her books that I would read again; however, I would recommend it.
October 14, 2020
I am so disappointed in this book. I enjoyed the first book (Magnolia Nights) and was looking forward to following Ellie’s and Lia’s journey.
Ellie was morphed into such a unlike able character who becomes very materialistic and elitist. She also apparently can’t manage to speak with her husband and watch her children at the same time, as Becca is constantly asked to stay late. Including after Becca mentions being on the phone to find out how her mom is felling after her breast biopsy! Ellie barely acknowledges it before she unsympathetically asks her to stay, again! Don’t even get me started on how the plot with Lia plays out. It could’ve been such a better dynamic but comes across seeming like an afterthought and very one sided. Until she is conveniently killed off and in the most unrealistic and unrelated way. The authors depiction and unsubtle condemnation of mental health issues is absolutely appalling! As is Maddie’s horrifyingly stereotypical dialect which seems to get worse as the book progresses.
Ellie was morphed into such a unlike able character who becomes very materialistic and elitist. She also apparently can’t manage to speak with her husband and watch her children at the same time, as Becca is constantly asked to stay late. Including after Becca mentions being on the phone to find out how her mom is felling after her breast biopsy! Ellie barely acknowledges it before she unsympathetically asks her to stay, again! Don’t even get me started on how the plot with Lia plays out. It could’ve been such a better dynamic but comes across seeming like an afterthought and very one sided. Until she is conveniently killed off and in the most unrealistic and unrelated way. The authors depiction and unsubtle condemnation of mental health issues is absolutely appalling! As is Maddie’s horrifyingly stereotypical dialect which seems to get worse as the book progresses.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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