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Magnolia Sound #10
Always on My Mind
Returning to Magnolia Sound was never part of the plan. Then again, Parker Bishop rarely had one. Yet after confessing her love to her best friend right before his wedding, she needs time to lick her wounds from the disastrous scene that unfolds. After the unsympathetic welcome she receives from her parents and siblings, Parker finds herself absentmindedly driving through town in search of a place to stay.
That’s when she spots the flier and a familiar name…
Ethan Harlow enjoys the peace and quiet. Unfortunately, finding a moment of it becomes impossible when the flier he posts for a roommate brings Parker crashing into his life. Of course, he remembers her from high school. It’s impossible to forget little miss popular who was always the center of attention. All he wanted was to split the rent and keep to himself. Instead, Parker transforms his home and makes him question the dreams he gave up out of fear of stepping out of his comfort zone.
The attraction they feel to one another makes crossing the line from roommates to lovers seem inevitable. But the more Parker encourages Ethan to pursue his dreams, the less likely it becomes that they can have any kind of future together. Can they find a way to claim their happily ever after or will their individual paths make a future impossible?
That’s when she spots the flier and a familiar name…
Ethan Harlow enjoys the peace and quiet. Unfortunately, finding a moment of it becomes impossible when the flier he posts for a roommate brings Parker crashing into his life. Of course, he remembers her from high school. It’s impossible to forget little miss popular who was always the center of attention. All he wanted was to split the rent and keep to himself. Instead, Parker transforms his home and makes him question the dreams he gave up out of fear of stepping out of his comfort zone.
The attraction they feel to one another makes crossing the line from roommates to lovers seem inevitable. But the more Parker encourages Ethan to pursue his dreams, the less likely it becomes that they can have any kind of future together. Can they find a way to claim their happily ever after or will their individual paths make a future impossible?
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2022
43 people are currently reading
428 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Chase
142 books2,359 followersSamantha Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller of contemporary romance that’s hotter than sweet, sweeter than hot. She released her debut novel in 2011 and currently has more than seventy titles under her belt – including THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE which was a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2017! She’s a Disney enthusiast who still happily listens to 80’s rock. When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading romances, playing way too many games of Solitaire on Facebook, wearing a tiara while playing with her sassy pug Maylene…oh, and spending time with her husband of 30 years and their two sons in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
March 16, 2022
5 Star Review of Always On My Mind (Magnolia Sound #10) by Samantha Chase
Having read a number of books in the Magnolia Sound series I was excited to dive in to Always On My Mind. Ms. Chase’s writing is so descriptive they I can easily visualize myself in Magnolia Sound and it was wonderful to be back there.
This is Parker Bishop and Ethan Harlow’s story and it was a wonderful addition to the series and I was hooked from the first chapter. Parker never expected to return to Magnolia Sound but fate works in mysterious ways. Spotting a flier for a roommate wanted, she answers the add only to find out it is Ethan.
Parker barrels into his life like a train and gives him glimpses of a life that he never thought he could have. The obvious attraction that sizzles between them is hard to resisit, what happens if they cross the line?
As I have come to expect from a Samantha Chase book, it was well written with characters that are engaging and whose story you are drawn to. I really felt for both characters and it was entertaining to watch these two move from friends to lovers. Could they have finally found their soul mate?
Having read a number of books in the Magnolia Sound series I was excited to dive in to Always On My Mind. Ms. Chase’s writing is so descriptive they I can easily visualize myself in Magnolia Sound and it was wonderful to be back there.
This is Parker Bishop and Ethan Harlow’s story and it was a wonderful addition to the series and I was hooked from the first chapter. Parker never expected to return to Magnolia Sound but fate works in mysterious ways. Spotting a flier for a roommate wanted, she answers the add only to find out it is Ethan.
Parker barrels into his life like a train and gives him glimpses of a life that he never thought he could have. The obvious attraction that sizzles between them is hard to resisit, what happens if they cross the line?
As I have come to expect from a Samantha Chase book, it was well written with characters that are engaging and whose story you are drawn to. I really felt for both characters and it was entertaining to watch these two move from friends to lovers. Could they have finally found their soul mate?
March 20, 2022
Samantha Chase has done it again and has delivered another incredible romance with Always on My Mind, the tenth book in her Magnolia Sound series. I love the Magnolia Sound series and each book in the series keeps getting better and better. Always on My Mind is my favorite book in the series, who does not love a forced proximity love story? Samantha Chase has once again provided her readers with amazing characters. I love all the characters in Always on My Mind, they feel like family! Who does not love hot sexy men, strong, passionate females, and big loving families, who always support one another? I love how Samantha Chase always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. Samantha Chase continues to deliver all that and so much more. Reading Always on My Mind felt like catching up at a family reunion and seeing how the lives of the other characters in the series have changed and all the babies! I so enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading the remaining books in the series. Samantha Chase has once again shown that she is an amazing storyteller. Always on My Mind did not disappoint; I could not put it down and loved every moment on every page. I enjoy how Samantha Chase writes from the perspective of the two main characters. That way you get to know what is going on in each of their minds. Always on My Mind is a wonderful love story and is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud and the bittersweet moments that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments eyes filling with tears. Always on My Mind is filled with such moments, and with so much more. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a Samantha Chase love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. Always on My Mind is the story of Parker Bishop, house sitter and great-granddaughter of Ezekiel Coleman, founder of Coleman Construction and one of the founding fathers of Magnolia Sound and college professor, Ethan Harlow. Ethan and Parker were high school classmates who have not seen each other since graduation. Parker leaves Florida and her house-sitting job after confronting her best friend, Tyler Burke with what she thought were her true feelings, and returns to Magnolia Sound. They encounter each other at the local library where Ethan is posting a flyer for a new roommate. Parker is looking for a place to live. Since returning to Magnolia Sound, Parker has stayed with her parents, her siblings, and a cousin, but none was a fit for her. Ethan agrees to rent a bedroom in his home to Parker. As Ethan and Parker begin spending time together, things quickly heat up between the two of them. As they spend more time together, they share secrets that they have not revealed to anyone. I love the chemistry between Ethan and Parker. I love that both Ethan and Parker were both so vulnerable and that each of them changed because of their love for one another. I love that Parker becomes a much stronger woman. Then an unexpected plot twist that changes everything that they had built with each other. I loved Ethan’s proposal. My favorite part was that I love the description of the book that Parker was reading. Another favorite part of the book is how Ethan sticks up for Parker during their first Bishop family dinner at Ethan’s house. I really love the letter that Pops left for Parker, helping her realize her dream of owning her own spa. I love the heart-to-heart conversations that Parker has with her mother and Ethan. I loved the story and am so glad that both Parker and Ethan got their happily ever after. I love all the surprises that Samantha Chase has included in Always on My Mind. My favorite part in the book is the epilogue and how it wraps up all the details of the happily ever after, and it did not disappoint. Always on My Mind contains all the elements that I have love most in a Samantha Chase story, romance, great characters and setting, bittersweet moments and the plot twist that ties it all together. Amazing story. I could not put it down. Highly recommend this forced proximity love story.
March 21, 2022
Magnolia Sound is always such a great place to visit, but there was something about this book that made it extra sweet to be back. While our main characters couldn't be anymore different, there was a connection that was undeniable and it made for such a rich story.
Parker Bishop has recently returned to Magnolia Sound and she's looking to find what she really wants to do and where she wants to be. While she's back "home", she needs to find a place to stay, so she starts staying with different family members, but it's clear pretty quickly that isn't going to work. While at the library, she happens to see a man put up a flyer looking for a roommate. Could this be the room she's been looking to rent?
Ethan Harlow is a professor at the local college and while he's whip smart, he's a nerd at heart and isn't all that outgoing or demonstrative. Ethan is quiet, introspective and so he's looking for a roommate that will complement him. When he's approached by the carefree, outgoing, vivacious Parker, he does not want to take her on as a roommate. That wasn't the vision he was going for!
Once Parker wears him down and he agrees to allowing her to move in, Ethan realizes that he might need her as much as she needs him. They form a friendship and begin to help one another with the respective things going on in their lives. Will the spark that has ignited grow into something romantic and significant? Or will it cause all sorts of issues and their new living arrangement?
I loved how different Ethan and Parker were, but how much they helped one another and cheered one another on. In the end, their opposites really did attract and they were so much stronger together than they were separately. Samantha Chase did a fantastic job with this story and I enjoyed every bit of it. I'm looking forward to the next one she has in store for us!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Parker Bishop has recently returned to Magnolia Sound and she's looking to find what she really wants to do and where she wants to be. While she's back "home", she needs to find a place to stay, so she starts staying with different family members, but it's clear pretty quickly that isn't going to work. While at the library, she happens to see a man put up a flyer looking for a roommate. Could this be the room she's been looking to rent?
Ethan Harlow is a professor at the local college and while he's whip smart, he's a nerd at heart and isn't all that outgoing or demonstrative. Ethan is quiet, introspective and so he's looking for a roommate that will complement him. When he's approached by the carefree, outgoing, vivacious Parker, he does not want to take her on as a roommate. That wasn't the vision he was going for!
Once Parker wears him down and he agrees to allowing her to move in, Ethan realizes that he might need her as much as she needs him. They form a friendship and begin to help one another with the respective things going on in their lives. Will the spark that has ignited grow into something romantic and significant? Or will it cause all sorts of issues and their new living arrangement?
I loved how different Ethan and Parker were, but how much they helped one another and cheered one another on. In the end, their opposites really did attract and they were so much stronger together than they were separately. Samantha Chase did a fantastic job with this story and I enjoyed every bit of it. I'm looking forward to the next one she has in store for us!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
March 22, 2022
Always on My Mind is an opposites attract romance and more importantly a story of family relationships. Parker’s place in her family is cast in stone—she’s perceived as spoiled, flaky, and impulsive. She’s never had a full time job and her family fears she will never settle into a career. Ethan moved back to Magnolia to care for his late father. He is a college science professor who is a bit of a nerd and sticks to his routine.
Samantha Chase’s dynamic characters draw me into her novels. Love the complicated relationships between the Coleman and Bishop families in this series. The conversations between Peyton and her sister are brutally honest and it was easy to imagine Parker being overwhelmed, stressed and hurt. I felt for Parker-she was trying to rebuild her life and her family couldn’t let go of their perception of her. They couldn’t see her strengths. These scenes were emotional and so very well written.
Loved the how the tentative friendship between Parker and Ethan led to sparks of attraction which resulted in a sweet romance. I wondered how free- spirited Parker and routine -oriented Ethan would work-loved that they were exactly what each other needed! Ethan is a quiet, thoughtful man and during the novel—he turned out to be the perfect swoony hero for Parker! Just loved him! Both characters listened to and supported each other – and these strengths enabled them to grow personally and professionally. Loved the plot twists and the Easter Eggs hidden throughout the novel—this is special treat for the author’s long time readers!
Samantha Chase explores several themes throughout this novel—there is conflict and drama, passion and honest conversation—all the elements that I adore in a novel. Adored Parker and Ethan and was so invested in their journey. Small town romance readers—this is the book for you!
Samantha Chase’s dynamic characters draw me into her novels. Love the complicated relationships between the Coleman and Bishop families in this series. The conversations between Peyton and her sister are brutally honest and it was easy to imagine Parker being overwhelmed, stressed and hurt. I felt for Parker-she was trying to rebuild her life and her family couldn’t let go of their perception of her. They couldn’t see her strengths. These scenes were emotional and so very well written.
Loved the how the tentative friendship between Parker and Ethan led to sparks of attraction which resulted in a sweet romance. I wondered how free- spirited Parker and routine -oriented Ethan would work-loved that they were exactly what each other needed! Ethan is a quiet, thoughtful man and during the novel—he turned out to be the perfect swoony hero for Parker! Just loved him! Both characters listened to and supported each other – and these strengths enabled them to grow personally and professionally. Loved the plot twists and the Easter Eggs hidden throughout the novel—this is special treat for the author’s long time readers!
Samantha Chase explores several themes throughout this novel—there is conflict and drama, passion and honest conversation—all the elements that I adore in a novel. Adored Parker and Ethan and was so invested in their journey. Small town romance readers—this is the book for you!
March 19, 2022
This series is one of my all-time favorites, but this book – gah! Of course I love Magnolia Sound and all the characters we've come to know. It all started with the patriarch of the Coleman, Bishop, and Westbrook families. Parker Bishop and Ethan Harlow's story gives us one more glimpse of Pops Coleman and, oh my heart, it is everything!
Parker and Ethan are about as night and day from each other as, well, night and day. But when she comes back to Magnolia Sound and needs a place to stay, seeing Ethan place a seeking roommate notice on the community bulletin board is serendipitous. She's care-free, vivacious, and the baby of the family, and her family's view of her reinforces her somewhat flighty life choices.
Ethan is an adorable nerd, a college professor, and lives a lot of his life inside himself. But these two are absolutely perfect together, using their individual strengths to strengthen each other.
Parker has a short fuse but burns out quickly, and Ethan is one who works everything out in his amazing brain before verbalizing something. Although there's ample opportunity for misunderstandings with such opposite personalities, I loved the way Parker and Ethan communicated and supported each other. And when Ethan does decide to speak, guard your heart, ladies, because he is sooo swoony!
This series feels like home, the characters like family, and I hope there are dozens more Coleman relatives to meet, because I never want it to end. Heartwarming, humorous, and delightfully charming, you'll want to be sure and add this phenomenal, feel-good read to your TBR.
Parker and Ethan are about as night and day from each other as, well, night and day. But when she comes back to Magnolia Sound and needs a place to stay, seeing Ethan place a seeking roommate notice on the community bulletin board is serendipitous. She's care-free, vivacious, and the baby of the family, and her family's view of her reinforces her somewhat flighty life choices.
Ethan is an adorable nerd, a college professor, and lives a lot of his life inside himself. But these two are absolutely perfect together, using their individual strengths to strengthen each other.
Parker has a short fuse but burns out quickly, and Ethan is one who works everything out in his amazing brain before verbalizing something. Although there's ample opportunity for misunderstandings with such opposite personalities, I loved the way Parker and Ethan communicated and supported each other. And when Ethan does decide to speak, guard your heart, ladies, because he is sooo swoony!
This series feels like home, the characters like family, and I hope there are dozens more Coleman relatives to meet, because I never want it to end. Heartwarming, humorous, and delightfully charming, you'll want to be sure and add this phenomenal, feel-good read to your TBR.
March 28, 2022
For years, Parker Bishop was secretly in love with her best friend Tyler, but he didn't return her feelings and recently married someone else. In need of a fresh start, Parker decides to return home to Magnolia Sound, but couch surfing with her relatives doesn't quite work out as planned. When she runs into former high school classmate Ethan Harlow at the library as he's posting a flyer for a roommate, it seems like a sign, so Parker does her best to persuade Ethan to let her move in with him. Against his better judgement, Ethan agrees, but he quickly wonders if it's a mistake. He can't help being attracted to Parker even though she seems determined to drag him out of his comfort zone and force him to chase dreams that he'd thought were long forgotten. As he gets to know her better, Ethan realizes that Parker just might need his help to follow her dreams too. Could these total opposites actually be totally perfect for each other?
Ethan and Parker were genuinely likeable, relatable characters, and I loved how much each of their characters grew over the course of the story. Their relationship was good for both of them because it pushed them to try new things and think about their lives in a different way. I loved how cute they were together, as well as the way Ethan stood up for Parker with her family. He was normally such a quiet, mild-mannered guy, but he turned into a fierce champion for the woman he loved.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Always on My Mind" and highly recommend it for all contemporary romance fans. I look forward to the next book in the series (especially after the intriguing setup in this book's epilogue).
*Review copy provided by the author via Valentine PR. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ethan and Parker were genuinely likeable, relatable characters, and I loved how much each of their characters grew over the course of the story. Their relationship was good for both of them because it pushed them to try new things and think about their lives in a different way. I loved how cute they were together, as well as the way Ethan stood up for Parker with her family. He was normally such a quiet, mild-mannered guy, but he turned into a fierce champion for the woman he loved.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Always on My Mind" and highly recommend it for all contemporary romance fans. I look forward to the next book in the series (especially after the intriguing setup in this book's epilogue).
*Review copy provided by the author via Valentine PR. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 25, 2022
I love visiting Magnolia Sound and this was no exception. Parker and Ethan are polar opposites but soon find that they have a sizzling chemistry. Parker has returned home to Magnolia Sound, feeling a true failure to her family and is need of a place to live when she meets nerdy, science professor Ethan. She actually talks Ethan into renting a room from him. Soon roommates become much more. They will soon find out where their hearts belong.
I had a hard time putting down this book, full of heart warming emotion, finding love, family and friends. Plus with the added mentions of chocolate chip cookies, ice cream and a dog named Ollie makes for a perfect read. I did love the mention the my previous book boyfriend, Owen.
This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
I had a hard time putting down this book, full of heart warming emotion, finding love, family and friends. Plus with the added mentions of chocolate chip cookies, ice cream and a dog named Ollie makes for a perfect read. I did love the mention the my previous book boyfriend, Owen.
This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
April 2, 2022
I love this series, and I love Parker and Ethan, but I wanted to smack a few people I also love for their words and actions. I won’t spoil anything, but it all works out and these two seemingly opposites, who aren’t so opposite in the ways that matter, get a beautiful story!
March 23, 2022
I FREAKING LOVE THIS SERIES!!! And, Ms. Chase has outdone herself!! Always On My Mind is the 10th book in Ms. Chase’s Magnolia Sound series. I loved every word, emotion, every character in the book/series.
Hmmm, where to start? OK, here goes.
You can’t judge a book by it’s cover??? Yep, or rather, 2 books (Ethan Harlow and Parker Bishop) by 2 covers (meek and mousy, and confident and happy-go-lucky). These descriptions are definitely façades, well sort of.
Parker puts up a front of the happy-go-lucky, positive woman. In truth, her insecurities are eating her alive. She comes from a family of super successful, smart people and she is afraid to try anything in life because she thinks she is going to fail and anything she attempts. And her super successful family… they are a huge part of the problem. Truthfully, I lost some respect for a good many of them in this book with the way they treated her.
Ethan is that meek, uncomfortable around people, geeky professor that you just want to hug. Sort of reminded me of another geniusy character in another of Ms. Chase’s series, but I digress. Ethan definitely needs to come out of his shell and loosen up. And Parker is just the person to help him do this.
One of my favorite scenes in this book is when Parker introduces Ethan to her family when she and Ethan host a family dinner. I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say this, that “mouse” roared like the alpha lion! I cheered my tush off!!!
And, OH MY GOSH, the ending!!! I can’t wait for the next book!!
I so loved this book, that I am sincerely hoping the audio book is coming out very soon, because I fully intend to purchase it as soon as it does.
I was gifted with a copy of this book because of my love of romance novels, and for my thoughts and opinions of this wonderful book. FREAKING PHENOMENAL!!! As soon as it hit my Kindle, I could not put it down!!
Thank you for reading my review. If you like to read romance, I am certain you will love this book as much as I have. So, what are you waiting for? Go hit that purchase button from your favorite retailer. You will not be sorry!! Happy Reading!!!
Hmmm, where to start? OK, here goes.
You can’t judge a book by it’s cover??? Yep, or rather, 2 books (Ethan Harlow and Parker Bishop) by 2 covers (meek and mousy, and confident and happy-go-lucky). These descriptions are definitely façades, well sort of.
Parker puts up a front of the happy-go-lucky, positive woman. In truth, her insecurities are eating her alive. She comes from a family of super successful, smart people and she is afraid to try anything in life because she thinks she is going to fail and anything she attempts. And her super successful family… they are a huge part of the problem. Truthfully, I lost some respect for a good many of them in this book with the way they treated her.
Ethan is that meek, uncomfortable around people, geeky professor that you just want to hug. Sort of reminded me of another geniusy character in another of Ms. Chase’s series, but I digress. Ethan definitely needs to come out of his shell and loosen up. And Parker is just the person to help him do this.
One of my favorite scenes in this book is when Parker introduces Ethan to her family when she and Ethan host a family dinner. I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say this, that “mouse” roared like the alpha lion! I cheered my tush off!!!
And, OH MY GOSH, the ending!!! I can’t wait for the next book!!
I so loved this book, that I am sincerely hoping the audio book is coming out very soon, because I fully intend to purchase it as soon as it does.
I was gifted with a copy of this book because of my love of romance novels, and for my thoughts and opinions of this wonderful book. FREAKING PHENOMENAL!!! As soon as it hit my Kindle, I could not put it down!!
Thank you for reading my review. If you like to read romance, I am certain you will love this book as much as I have. So, what are you waiting for? Go hit that purchase button from your favorite retailer. You will not be sorry!! Happy Reading!!!
March 23, 2022
Always On My Mind is book #10 in Samantha Chase’s Magnolia Sound series.
I devoured this book … was in the car traveling and put in my ear buds (no music) and pretended I couldn’t hear the chaos going on in the car! I just kept reading and occasionally would smile at Hubs!
Why the 5 stars? Ms. Chase, who writes really great stories of family, friends, and small towns, outdid herself with the characters in AOMM.
Parker Bishop is returning to town after a horrifying incident with her best friend, who announced his engagement to a girl. While Parker was truly friends with him, the fact that he was moving on and she was stuck in place really hit home. … so she returned home to Magnolia Sound to lick her wounds and figure out her next steps.
It was then that she spotted the flyer posted by Ethan Harlow who was looking for a roommate. After a bit of convincing, Parker moves in … and remembers why she had a bit of a crush on him while they were in school together. Despite being a bit of a nerd and unsure of himself social, Ethan is a terrific guy. While Parker’s free spirit and spontaneous style may grate on her friends and family, it’s just what Ethan needs to shake him out of his stiff schedule and routine.
As Ethan and Parker settle into house sharing … and then start to become romantically involved, they realize that they are each other’s best bet for tackling their personal challenges so they can reach their goals. It is in this vein that Ms. Chase’s writing style and character development is a home run!
If you’re looking for a great book that can be read as a standalone, but brings in characters from her previous books, look no further and download Always On My Mind today! You’ll want to do like I did and block everything out so you can have a binge read!
I received an ARC from the author and am happy to share my opinions of the book in this review.
I devoured this book … was in the car traveling and put in my ear buds (no music) and pretended I couldn’t hear the chaos going on in the car! I just kept reading and occasionally would smile at Hubs!
Why the 5 stars? Ms. Chase, who writes really great stories of family, friends, and small towns, outdid herself with the characters in AOMM.
Parker Bishop is returning to town after a horrifying incident with her best friend, who announced his engagement to a girl. While Parker was truly friends with him, the fact that he was moving on and she was stuck in place really hit home. … so she returned home to Magnolia Sound to lick her wounds and figure out her next steps.
It was then that she spotted the flyer posted by Ethan Harlow who was looking for a roommate. After a bit of convincing, Parker moves in … and remembers why she had a bit of a crush on him while they were in school together. Despite being a bit of a nerd and unsure of himself social, Ethan is a terrific guy. While Parker’s free spirit and spontaneous style may grate on her friends and family, it’s just what Ethan needs to shake him out of his stiff schedule and routine.
As Ethan and Parker settle into house sharing … and then start to become romantically involved, they realize that they are each other’s best bet for tackling their personal challenges so they can reach their goals. It is in this vein that Ms. Chase’s writing style and character development is a home run!
If you’re looking for a great book that can be read as a standalone, but brings in characters from her previous books, look no further and download Always On My Mind today! You’ll want to do like I did and block everything out so you can have a binge read!
I received an ARC from the author and am happy to share my opinions of the book in this review.
March 25, 2022
Always On My Mind, book ten in Samantha Chase’s Magnolia Sound series, is an emotional and heartwarming tale featuring Parker Bishop and Ethan Harlow; hooking me in from the first chapter. Parker is the youngest of the Bishop siblings and her inheritance was money to enable her need to travel and explore the world; not one of the various business around Magnolia Sound like the others. Never expecting to return to Magnolia Sound she has tired of traveling and is back, trying to find a purpose ins her life. Ethan is a professor at the local community college, looking for a housemate. While putting up a flyer at the library he encounters Parker who takes him up on the room. Not what he was expecting but these two were made for each other; fate works in mysterious ways. Ethan is very nerdy and shy while Parker is high-spirited and insecure and together they are perfection; two pieces of a puzzle that fit together or yin and yang. Parker barrels into his life like a train and giving him glimpses of a life that he never thought he could have. These two had a strong magnetism that only grew from their days in high school and sizzling, off-the-chart chemistry exploding into an amazing relationship. Watching Parker help Ethan come out of his shell with his teaching style and when he taking on her family, defending her, added another layer of good feels to this story.
Ms. Chase wrote a wonderful, heartwarming, feel good, small town story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with visualization of the town, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and endearing secondary characters giving Parker and Ethan a chance at love, happiness, and a forever together. I highly recommend Always On My Mind to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Chase wrote a wonderful, heartwarming, feel good, small town story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with visualization of the town, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and endearing secondary characters giving Parker and Ethan a chance at love, happiness, and a forever together. I highly recommend Always On My Mind to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 24, 2022
This book is the heartwarming love story between two “imperfectly perfect” people! When I began reading this book, I had no idea that I would fall in love with two humble, self-effacing characters like Parker Bishop and Ethan Harlow.
Parker comes from a small town and a very influential, but judgmental, family. Eventually, their disapproval and constant criticism forces her to use her great grandfather’s inheritance to leave home and start a new life. However, she departs with very little confidence and a very low self-esteem. Despite that, Parker openly portrays an enthusiastic personality to hide her feelings of inferiority.
Unfortunately, due to an embarrassing misunderstanding between her and her best friend, Parker eventually returns to Magnolia Sound to find help from her many family members. Sadly, the critical and insensitive response from her family leaves her with no one to turn to and nowhere to go.
Ethan is a very intelligent former classmate of Parker. He is an unassuming college professor who is a loner by choice. His lack of social graces keeps him from holding the attention of his students. He even has trouble making friends to his student.
However, Ethan is looking for a roommate to help him with the expenses for his new house. Even though their personalities are complete opposites, Parker, in a very humorous scene, manages, with well-practiced fast talk, to confuse Ethan into letting her become his roommate.
Samantha Chase skillfully creates two imperfect, but extremely lovable, characters. Their flaws make them sympathetic to the reader. But it is their loving, caring personalities that make them realistic and very appealing. These traits allow them to lovingly encourage each other to overcome many of their problems. In spite of their differences and some other obstacles, Ethan and Parker never waver from their love for each other.
Parker comes from a small town and a very influential, but judgmental, family. Eventually, their disapproval and constant criticism forces her to use her great grandfather’s inheritance to leave home and start a new life. However, she departs with very little confidence and a very low self-esteem. Despite that, Parker openly portrays an enthusiastic personality to hide her feelings of inferiority.
Unfortunately, due to an embarrassing misunderstanding between her and her best friend, Parker eventually returns to Magnolia Sound to find help from her many family members. Sadly, the critical and insensitive response from her family leaves her with no one to turn to and nowhere to go.
Ethan is a very intelligent former classmate of Parker. He is an unassuming college professor who is a loner by choice. His lack of social graces keeps him from holding the attention of his students. He even has trouble making friends to his student.
However, Ethan is looking for a roommate to help him with the expenses for his new house. Even though their personalities are complete opposites, Parker, in a very humorous scene, manages, with well-practiced fast talk, to confuse Ethan into letting her become his roommate.
Samantha Chase skillfully creates two imperfect, but extremely lovable, characters. Their flaws make them sympathetic to the reader. But it is their loving, caring personalities that make them realistic and very appealing. These traits allow them to lovingly encourage each other to overcome many of their problems. In spite of their differences and some other obstacles, Ethan and Parker never waver from their love for each other.
April 2, 2022
Parker Bishop has always felt like the odd one out in her family. She is fun and has a great personality but is Afraid of failure. I found myself feeling bad for Parker in the beginning. But she really has a bright and upbeat attitude and I just loved her character.
Ethan Harlow is a smart and sexy professor, but he is not great in being social.
When the two ends up as roommates, it seems they may actually be able To help one another.
I loved getting to see Parker and Ethan encourage one another and fall for each other. They had such a sweet relationship and really complimented one another. I absolutely love the two of them. There was not a ton of angst in this story which I loved. I also loved the fact we got another glimpse of Pop, who we met at the beginning of the series. This was such a wonderful story, full of love and accomplishment. If you are looking for a wonderful read, I highly recommend Always on My Mind!!
Ethan Harlow is a smart and sexy professor, but he is not great in being social.
When the two ends up as roommates, it seems they may actually be able To help one another.
I loved getting to see Parker and Ethan encourage one another and fall for each other. They had such a sweet relationship and really complimented one another. I absolutely love the two of them. There was not a ton of angst in this story which I loved. I also loved the fact we got another glimpse of Pop, who we met at the beginning of the series. This was such a wonderful story, full of love and accomplishment. If you are looking for a wonderful read, I highly recommend Always on My Mind!!
March 23, 2022
Always on My Mind by Samantha Chase is the tenth book in Magnolia Sound series.
As with the other books in the series, this can probably be read as a standalone, but it’s so much better when the reader has the history from other characters in the story.
Parker has had a shock to her reality, and she returns to Magnolia Sound to find some solace in her family. Of course, that wasn’t going to happen with her family! Parker is presumed to be a flighty woman who never stays in one place long. Her inheritance from her grandfather was the ability to travel and experience new things at her whim. All her siblings got a developed business to continue the success from their grandfather. Why didn’t she get the same kind of starting point? And now that she’s at rock bottom, she’s jumping in to roommate with a straight-laced, professor who thinks everything through to it’s inevitable conclusion! But Ethan needs some of Parker’s ability to connect with people (his students particularly), and Parker needs Ethan’s grounding presence.
When the two move past roommate, friend zone, what will be the reaction of everyone? Will Parker run away to a new adventure again, or will Ethan move on to a bigger opportunity? Or will they find a way to make their partnership into a growing adventure together?
Samantha Chase is a go-to author for me. I find I can easily relate to the characters and their thoughts. And she brings a sense of humour to every situation. This book is another great read!
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
As with the other books in the series, this can probably be read as a standalone, but it’s so much better when the reader has the history from other characters in the story.
Parker has had a shock to her reality, and she returns to Magnolia Sound to find some solace in her family. Of course, that wasn’t going to happen with her family! Parker is presumed to be a flighty woman who never stays in one place long. Her inheritance from her grandfather was the ability to travel and experience new things at her whim. All her siblings got a developed business to continue the success from their grandfather. Why didn’t she get the same kind of starting point? And now that she’s at rock bottom, she’s jumping in to roommate with a straight-laced, professor who thinks everything through to it’s inevitable conclusion! But Ethan needs some of Parker’s ability to connect with people (his students particularly), and Parker needs Ethan’s grounding presence.
When the two move past roommate, friend zone, what will be the reaction of everyone? Will Parker run away to a new adventure again, or will Ethan move on to a bigger opportunity? Or will they find a way to make their partnership into a growing adventure together?
Samantha Chase is a go-to author for me. I find I can easily relate to the characters and their thoughts. And she brings a sense of humour to every situation. This book is another great read!
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
November 4, 2025
I really enjoyed Always on My Mind! As with many of Samantha Chase’s books, this story had that sweet, comforting charm I’ve come to expect from her. The characters felt relatable, and I loved the small-town setting and the way old feelings resurfaced between the leads—it had just the right amount of heart and nostalgia.
The romance built up nicely, and I appreciated how the characters worked through their past rather than jumping right back in. There were a few moments that felt a little slower, but overall it was a warm, feel-good read that reminded me why I keep coming back to Chase’s books.
It’s the kind of story that leaves you smiling at the end—a perfect pick when you want something heartfelt but easy to sink into. A solid 4 stars from me!
The romance built up nicely, and I appreciated how the characters worked through their past rather than jumping right back in. There were a few moments that felt a little slower, but overall it was a warm, feel-good read that reminded me why I keep coming back to Chase’s books.
It’s the kind of story that leaves you smiling at the end—a perfect pick when you want something heartfelt but easy to sink into. A solid 4 stars from me!
March 24, 2022
"Shouldn’t the basis of any good relationship start with being friends?"
Parker and Ethan are total opposites and become roommates when Parker moves back home to Magnolia Sound looking for a place to stay. While Parker is spontaneous and free spirited, loving to travel, Ethan, a science professor, prefers routine and order in his life. Even though they couldn't seem more different, they found themselves attracted to one another.
I loved how Parker and Ethan developed a friendship first, discovering they were similar in several ways. Both exhibited fear of failure, and needed to learn how to move out of their respective comfort zones. They had such a sweet, loving relationship and I knew almost immediately they were destined to find their HEA together. Friendship also played a significant role as Parker began to understand how she misinterpreted her friendship with her long-time friend Tyler as love and attraction. So, when does friendship turn into love?
"It was in that moment that she believed people could change. Including herself."
I also loved how Parker and Ethan were each open to change and I enjoyed seeing how they worked through their discomforts to turn their struggles into strengths, both personally and professionally. However, while I felt the connection between Parker and Ethan, I never really felt the passion and desire or heat. Perhaps that was because the sex scenes were mainly fade to black so the steam level was quite low. The romance was simple and I would have liked to see a more angst filled story.
Family dynamics added a beautiful complexity to the characters making this book appealing to fans of small town romances. I typically prefer books written in dual perspectives so this one didn't read smoothly as it included both points of view along with a third person narration, all within the same chapter. While this is book ten in the series, it's the first I've read and it completely works as a standalone but the stories of the supporting characters in previous books would add to the experience of reading this one.
"You’re everything I never knew I wanted and now… I can’t imagine living without."
** 3.5 stars rounded to 3 for Goodreads **
** Special thanks to author Samantha Chase and Valentine PR for sending me this ARC to read and review. Available March 22, 2022. **
Parker and Ethan are total opposites and become roommates when Parker moves back home to Magnolia Sound looking for a place to stay. While Parker is spontaneous and free spirited, loving to travel, Ethan, a science professor, prefers routine and order in his life. Even though they couldn't seem more different, they found themselves attracted to one another.
I loved how Parker and Ethan developed a friendship first, discovering they were similar in several ways. Both exhibited fear of failure, and needed to learn how to move out of their respective comfort zones. They had such a sweet, loving relationship and I knew almost immediately they were destined to find their HEA together. Friendship also played a significant role as Parker began to understand how she misinterpreted her friendship with her long-time friend Tyler as love and attraction. So, when does friendship turn into love?
"It was in that moment that she believed people could change. Including herself."
I also loved how Parker and Ethan were each open to change and I enjoyed seeing how they worked through their discomforts to turn their struggles into strengths, both personally and professionally. However, while I felt the connection between Parker and Ethan, I never really felt the passion and desire or heat. Perhaps that was because the sex scenes were mainly fade to black so the steam level was quite low. The romance was simple and I would have liked to see a more angst filled story.
Family dynamics added a beautiful complexity to the characters making this book appealing to fans of small town romances. I typically prefer books written in dual perspectives so this one didn't read smoothly as it included both points of view along with a third person narration, all within the same chapter. While this is book ten in the series, it's the first I've read and it completely works as a standalone but the stories of the supporting characters in previous books would add to the experience of reading this one.
"You’re everything I never knew I wanted and now… I can’t imagine living without."
** 3.5 stars rounded to 3 for Goodreads **
** Special thanks to author Samantha Chase and Valentine PR for sending me this ARC to read and review. Available March 22, 2022. **
March 23, 2022
I love this series and each book just gets better.
Parker has returned home to Magnolia sound to regroup. She thought she would never be back here, and couch surfing with family is not working. While at the library, she discovers a housemate wanted flyer.
Ethan has a room for rent and a vision. Unfortunately, Parker is not what he has in mind. I enjoyed reading the story that unfolds from here and how the opposites work. There are lots of feels, and I read the book quickly.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Parker has returned home to Magnolia sound to regroup. She thought she would never be back here, and couch surfing with family is not working. While at the library, she discovers a housemate wanted flyer.
Ethan has a room for rent and a vision. Unfortunately, Parker is not what he has in mind. I enjoyed reading the story that unfolds from here and how the opposites work. There are lots of feels, and I read the book quickly.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 5, 2022
3 stars because it was entertaining. It honestly was almost 2 stars because the story was just so dang cheesy and unrealistic that I sometimes actually cringed while listening to the audiobook. I also love love, so that is another reason why I didn't give it 2 stars. I haven't read any other books in this series. I was looking for an audiobook to listen to on my drive to/from work and this one was available through my public library.
August 4, 2024
Meh, a fluff book. Heard it on an audio book to pass the time while I worked outside.
March 26, 2022
I love all of the Magnolia Sound books, and this one definitely did not disappoint. Loved the banter, and the friends to lovers trope. Reading these books is like being home again.
April 10, 2022
♦♦♥♦♦♥♦♦♥♦♦
Parker and Ethan are the least likely couple on paper, but behind closed doors they are two peas in a pod!
Parker is this effervescent and charismatic woman with a free spirit and love of traveling. Her great grandpa left her money to travel and she high tailed it out of Magnolia Sound and only dropped back in for quick visits. Her family thinks she's flaky and a flight risk and I found myself really angry on her behalf! I love Peyton and Mason but I'm telling you I really wanted to smack them both for how they treated her. They goes doubly for her parents. I mean Georgia has been consistently bitchy and a snow throughout the books I've read in this series so I wasn't surprised. However, she really turned that attitude around and I think I'm going to like her in future books.
Ethan is a nerdy hot college professor who kind of had a crush on Parker in high school but he was way too shy to approach her.
Their meet cute happens at the library and it was pretty adorable and low key, just like this couple. Let me tell you, Ethan may be reserved and quiet but sweet baby J he went all alpha on her family when they ganged up on her! I was like, " Go, Ethan, tell them right the hell off 'cuz they deserve it!!"
This book may not have a spicy level in the smexy scenes department but the romance and love more than makes up for that.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴: 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝙈𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙖 𝙎𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘌𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢 𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘱𝘦e𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘱𝘭𝘦.
𝐀𝐧𝐝, 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨!! 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐛𝐨𝐦𝐛 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐚 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞!! 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭!?
♥♥♥♥♥♥
𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨, 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐀 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐲.
Parker and Ethan are the least likely couple on paper, but behind closed doors they are two peas in a pod!
Parker is this effervescent and charismatic woman with a free spirit and love of traveling. Her great grandpa left her money to travel and she high tailed it out of Magnolia Sound and only dropped back in for quick visits. Her family thinks she's flaky and a flight risk and I found myself really angry on her behalf! I love Peyton and Mason but I'm telling you I really wanted to smack them both for how they treated her. They goes doubly for her parents. I mean Georgia has been consistently bitchy and a snow throughout the books I've read in this series so I wasn't surprised. However, she really turned that attitude around and I think I'm going to like her in future books.
Ethan is a nerdy hot college professor who kind of had a crush on Parker in high school but he was way too shy to approach her.
Their meet cute happens at the library and it was pretty adorable and low key, just like this couple. Let me tell you, Ethan may be reserved and quiet but sweet baby J he went all alpha on her family when they ganged up on her! I was like, " Go, Ethan, tell them right the hell off 'cuz they deserve it!!"
This book may not have a spicy level in the smexy scenes department but the romance and love more than makes up for that.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐'𝘷𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴: 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝙈𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙖 𝙎𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘌𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢 𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘱𝘦e𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘱𝘭𝘦.
𝐀𝐧𝐝, 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨!! 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐛𝐨𝐦𝐛 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐚 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞!! 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭!?
♥♥♥♥♥♥
𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨, 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐀 𝐆𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐲.
March 22, 2022
ALWAYS ON MY MIND is the tenth instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series. This is college professor Ethan Harlow, and Parker Bishop’s story line. ALWAYS ON MY MIND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Ethan and Parker) ALWAYS ON MY MIND sees another Coleman-Bishop heir find their own happily ever after. Months earlier Parker’s great grandfather Coleman died, leaving a little part of himself, and Magnolia Sound to his great grandchildren, grandchildren and heirs. As one of the founding families of Magnolia Sound, the Coleman-Bishop clan owned a large number of properties and business, business that apparently skipped over our story line heroine. Parker Bishop, always the proverbial nomad, was gifted money, and a letter asking her to enjoy her life travelling the world but Parker would soon discover that her best friend was getting married, and she would be homeless in a matter of days. Returning to Magnolia Sound, our heroine was not easily accepted by her family and friends, and once again, homelessness was but a matter of hours on the horizon. Enter college professor Ethan Harlow, and the man with whom Parker would fall in love. Ethan has a room available for rent but Parker is not the type of person Ethan is looking for. What ensues is the roommates to friends to lovers relationship between Ethan and Parker, and the potential fall-out as Ethan reaches his own professional crossroad, a crossroad that could pull Ethan out of Parker’s life.
Parker Bishop has always been unsettled and a little erratic; a person who struggled in school, having no direction in life, including no direction for her immediate future. Parker’s siblings and family never understood our story line heroine, and Parker felt she was always on the outside looking in, without benefit of support or love. Renting a room from Ethan Harlow, meant the possibility of putting down roots in Magnolia Sound, but our heroine’s inability to settle, to remain in one place, pushes at our story line hero who struggles with the roommate he never wanted. Ethan Harlow remembers Parker Bishop from their days in high school but never expected to find a roommate and lover in our story line heroine. When Ethan is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, Ethan must chose between Parker or going it alone.
The relationship between Parker and Ethan begins acrimoniously as Ethan struggles to accept the over the top nuances of our story line heroine. Parker battles with issues of low self-worth and low self-esteem such that she finds the negativity in everything including her small chances at success.Having lived her life fighting for acceptance, it is only a matter of time before she begins to think that she is not worthy of friendship or love.Battling between head and heart Parker has plans for a future, a future that may not include the man that she loves. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Parker’s judgemental and stifling siblings, none of whom support our story line heroine. From her mother to siblings, cousins and friends, Parker constantly fights for a place in the family, a family that sees Parker as nothing more than a loose end.
ALWAYS ON MY MIND is a story of family, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is passionate; the characters are struggling to move on with their lives.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual third person perspectives (Ethan and Parker) ALWAYS ON MY MIND sees another Coleman-Bishop heir find their own happily ever after. Months earlier Parker’s great grandfather Coleman died, leaving a little part of himself, and Magnolia Sound to his great grandchildren, grandchildren and heirs. As one of the founding families of Magnolia Sound, the Coleman-Bishop clan owned a large number of properties and business, business that apparently skipped over our story line heroine. Parker Bishop, always the proverbial nomad, was gifted money, and a letter asking her to enjoy her life travelling the world but Parker would soon discover that her best friend was getting married, and she would be homeless in a matter of days. Returning to Magnolia Sound, our heroine was not easily accepted by her family and friends, and once again, homelessness was but a matter of hours on the horizon. Enter college professor Ethan Harlow, and the man with whom Parker would fall in love. Ethan has a room available for rent but Parker is not the type of person Ethan is looking for. What ensues is the roommates to friends to lovers relationship between Ethan and Parker, and the potential fall-out as Ethan reaches his own professional crossroad, a crossroad that could pull Ethan out of Parker’s life.
Parker Bishop has always been unsettled and a little erratic; a person who struggled in school, having no direction in life, including no direction for her immediate future. Parker’s siblings and family never understood our story line heroine, and Parker felt she was always on the outside looking in, without benefit of support or love. Renting a room from Ethan Harlow, meant the possibility of putting down roots in Magnolia Sound, but our heroine’s inability to settle, to remain in one place, pushes at our story line hero who struggles with the roommate he never wanted. Ethan Harlow remembers Parker Bishop from their days in high school but never expected to find a roommate and lover in our story line heroine. When Ethan is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, Ethan must chose between Parker or going it alone.
The relationship between Parker and Ethan begins acrimoniously as Ethan struggles to accept the over the top nuances of our story line heroine. Parker battles with issues of low self-worth and low self-esteem such that she finds the negativity in everything including her small chances at success.Having lived her life fighting for acceptance, it is only a matter of time before she begins to think that she is not worthy of friendship or love.Battling between head and heart Parker has plans for a future, a future that may not include the man that she loves. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Parker’s judgemental and stifling siblings, none of whom support our story line heroine. From her mother to siblings, cousins and friends, Parker constantly fights for a place in the family, a family that sees Parker as nothing more than a loose end.
ALWAYS ON MY MIND is a story of family, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is passionate; the characters are struggling to move on with their lives.
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 12, 2022
OUT ON MARCH 22nd 2022!
Thank you, NetGalley for sending me an e-arc of this book! Just a disclaimer that I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
- 2.75/5 ⭐️
- third-person POV
- small-town romance
- grumpysunshine
- housemates
- strangers to friends to lovers
- old acquaintances (from high school)
- book 10 in a series of stand-alones
Overview:
After confessing (and getting rejected) by her best friend, Tyler, Parker returns to Magnolia Sound, the town her great-grandfather had founded. With the town being small and knowing almost everybody there, Parker ends up renting a room in the house owned by her ex-schoolmate, Ethan, who is now a science professor at the local university.
Review:
At first, I thought, “The blurb sounds very interesting”, but as I progressed through the book, I don’t think I’d say I enjoyed it. This is the first book by Samantha that I’ve read and even when the storyline was interesting and I feel like the potential for it to be a great book was there, it was something about the way it was written that had me disliking the book.
I don’t feel the chemistry between the characters at all. Ethan and Parker’s relationship seemed to have escalated way too quickly and I didn’t feel the attraction between them. The bickering over small things didn’t help too. There were cute moments that I enjoyed, but I’m sorry to say that it’s not as good as I expected it to be.
Parker’s family was so irritating. Her siblings, Mason and Peyton… and Peyton’s fiancé, Ryder, gahhh there were just soooo annoying to me. They pressured Parker to be the person they all wanted her to be and I felt helpless because Parker couldn’t defend herself. It felt good to read about the part when Ethan stood by her side, but that was that. I also didn’t feel the whole forgiveness setting between the siblings because from what I’ve read, I would be more than butt hurt over it, even though they are my siblings.
Note that I’ve only read this book from the entire Magnolia Sound series, so I don’t know nor have I connected with the other characters, but based on what I’ve read in this book itself, I don’t think I’d necessarily enjoy the other books just because of how the characters are.
Overall, the plot and storyline were great and entertaining, nothing too wow nor too hurrah, but the writing style was difficult for me to enjoy. Maybe it’s just me, but I hope to come back to this book someday and maybe my thoughts would change? We’ll see.
Thank you, NetGalley for sending me an e-arc of this book! Just a disclaimer that I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
- 2.75/5 ⭐️
- third-person POV
- small-town romance
- grumpysunshine
- housemates
- strangers to friends to lovers
- old acquaintances (from high school)
- book 10 in a series of stand-alones
Overview:
After confessing (and getting rejected) by her best friend, Tyler, Parker returns to Magnolia Sound, the town her great-grandfather had founded. With the town being small and knowing almost everybody there, Parker ends up renting a room in the house owned by her ex-schoolmate, Ethan, who is now a science professor at the local university.
Review:
At first, I thought, “The blurb sounds very interesting”, but as I progressed through the book, I don’t think I’d say I enjoyed it. This is the first book by Samantha that I’ve read and even when the storyline was interesting and I feel like the potential for it to be a great book was there, it was something about the way it was written that had me disliking the book.
I don’t feel the chemistry between the characters at all. Ethan and Parker’s relationship seemed to have escalated way too quickly and I didn’t feel the attraction between them. The bickering over small things didn’t help too. There were cute moments that I enjoyed, but I’m sorry to say that it’s not as good as I expected it to be.
Parker’s family was so irritating. Her siblings, Mason and Peyton… and Peyton’s fiancé, Ryder, gahhh there were just soooo annoying to me. They pressured Parker to be the person they all wanted her to be and I felt helpless because Parker couldn’t defend herself. It felt good to read about the part when Ethan stood by her side, but that was that. I also didn’t feel the whole forgiveness setting between the siblings because from what I’ve read, I would be more than butt hurt over it, even though they are my siblings.
Note that I’ve only read this book from the entire Magnolia Sound series, so I don’t know nor have I connected with the other characters, but based on what I’ve read in this book itself, I don’t think I’d necessarily enjoy the other books just because of how the characters are.
Overall, the plot and storyline were great and entertaining, nothing too wow nor too hurrah, but the writing style was difficult for me to enjoy. Maybe it’s just me, but I hope to come back to this book someday and maybe my thoughts would change? We’ll see.
May 13, 2022
Parker Bishop was back in her hometown and was frantically driving around not knowing who to call. She had plenty of family and friends that would gladly help, but if the last week was any indication she knew that she was going to need help again.
The one person who she would normally turn to was no longer an option after him telling her a few months ago he was getting married. And the ring he showed her proudly wasn't for her. Her heart had broken that day.
After the torture of attending him get married to someone else she had packed up her belongings and moved back home. Now she was practically homeless after finding her parent's home under renovation and on vacation, her stay with her brother put too much stress on his pregnant wife and her sister and fiance thought she was their fix-it project.
She ended up pulling over being too upset to drive to find herself in front of the library...where she found a community board.
Ethan Harlow was standing in front of the community board in the library wondering if he was doing the right thing. But practicality won and he reached up and posted his notice for a roommate.
Ethan was a science professor on the geek side, socially awkward but had goals. Parker always had a smile on her face, but hadn't figured out where she fit in the world and ran when life got tough.
I loved this small town romance. It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Parker is the perfect example of how family relationships can be complicated. They just drive you crazy with their ideas of how you should run your life and for Parker who was still trying to find her niche their suggestions aren't taken as they intend.
I love Ethan. He is smart and gorgeous, but doesn't adapt well socially which causes issues as he is a professor. They are the perfect match for each other and I so enjoyed their story. There is a surprising twist at the end of this story and I can't wait to see what happens next in Magnolia Sound!
Samantha Chase writes stories that grab your heart. Highly recommend this book and author!
The one person who she would normally turn to was no longer an option after him telling her a few months ago he was getting married. And the ring he showed her proudly wasn't for her. Her heart had broken that day.
After the torture of attending him get married to someone else she had packed up her belongings and moved back home. Now she was practically homeless after finding her parent's home under renovation and on vacation, her stay with her brother put too much stress on his pregnant wife and her sister and fiance thought she was their fix-it project.
She ended up pulling over being too upset to drive to find herself in front of the library...where she found a community board.
Ethan Harlow was standing in front of the community board in the library wondering if he was doing the right thing. But practicality won and he reached up and posted his notice for a roommate.
Ethan was a science professor on the geek side, socially awkward but had goals. Parker always had a smile on her face, but hadn't figured out where she fit in the world and ran when life got tough.
I loved this small town romance. It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Parker is the perfect example of how family relationships can be complicated. They just drive you crazy with their ideas of how you should run your life and for Parker who was still trying to find her niche their suggestions aren't taken as they intend.
I love Ethan. He is smart and gorgeous, but doesn't adapt well socially which causes issues as he is a professor. They are the perfect match for each other and I so enjoyed their story. There is a surprising twist at the end of this story and I can't wait to see what happens next in Magnolia Sound!
Samantha Chase writes stories that grab your heart. Highly recommend this book and author!
April 4, 2022
Always on My Mind is the tenth book in the Magnolia Sound series but I read it as a stand-alone and had no problems. It was fast-paced, had lovable characters, and was engaging from the beginning.
Parker Bishop had always felt pressured to be perfect when she lived in Magnolia Sound. She left to travel the world after school with no goals or plans for her future. She was happy with her life until she had a fallout with her best friend. Hurt and with nowhere else to go she returns to Magnolia Sound. She needed a place to stay where her family would leave her alone and she could heal and think of her future.
Ethan Harlow had settled living in Magnolia Sound and teaching at the community college when his father was ill. He dreams of teaching at a more elite college but fears the idea of being in front of a larger class. He remembers Parker from high school as the popular girl who was always laughing. He wanted a quiet roommate so was not sure their being roommates would work out. Living with Parker exposed her insecurities and a vulnerable side of her that he never saw in high school.
As their relationship grows, they encourage each other to reach for their dreams. Can their relationship survive when their dreams take them on different paths in life?
I love small-town romances and adore the families and friends from Magnolia Sound. This was a touching story of two people helping each other find themselves while falling in love. After reading this book I find myself curious and wanting to read the previous books. I look forward to reading more from Magnolia Sound.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Parker Bishop had always felt pressured to be perfect when she lived in Magnolia Sound. She left to travel the world after school with no goals or plans for her future. She was happy with her life until she had a fallout with her best friend. Hurt and with nowhere else to go she returns to Magnolia Sound. She needed a place to stay where her family would leave her alone and she could heal and think of her future.
Ethan Harlow had settled living in Magnolia Sound and teaching at the community college when his father was ill. He dreams of teaching at a more elite college but fears the idea of being in front of a larger class. He remembers Parker from high school as the popular girl who was always laughing. He wanted a quiet roommate so was not sure their being roommates would work out. Living with Parker exposed her insecurities and a vulnerable side of her that he never saw in high school.
As their relationship grows, they encourage each other to reach for their dreams. Can their relationship survive when their dreams take them on different paths in life?
I love small-town romances and adore the families and friends from Magnolia Sound. This was a touching story of two people helping each other find themselves while falling in love. After reading this book I find myself curious and wanting to read the previous books. I look forward to reading more from Magnolia Sound.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2022
I have read several books by this author and I always like the book and hate the cover. I didn’t hate this one! It is probably the best cover for one of her books that I’ve seen, so feel free to judge this book by its cover.
Having recently moved back to her hometown of Magnolia Sound, Parker is bouncing from one relative to another until she finds Ethan’s flier in the library. Her whole family lives here, and while she vaguely remembers Ethan from high school, her cousin, the librarian, vouches for him. She basically steamrolls Ethan into renting her a room in his house, and he isn’t sure this is going to work at all.
The funny thing was I had no idea this was part of a series when I read it, never mind the tenth book! Looking back I can see it, so kudos to Chase for doing such a good job with that.
Ethan is an introvert, a nerd, and completely intimidated Parker when they were in high school together and he was class valedictorian. Parker has the lowest self esteem of anyone I’ve read about in quite a while, but is so charming and self-deprecating that I couldn’t help but root for her. Ethan and Parker become roommates, then friends, then more while Parker tries to figure out her life.
Small town charm is abundant here, as are a lot of laughs from Parker’s crazy large family. I really enjoyed watching both these characters grow and bring out the best in one another. Not much sex either, if that is a factor for you. All in all, a very enjoyable read and yep, I’m looking for the earlier books in this series.
Having recently moved back to her hometown of Magnolia Sound, Parker is bouncing from one relative to another until she finds Ethan’s flier in the library. Her whole family lives here, and while she vaguely remembers Ethan from high school, her cousin, the librarian, vouches for him. She basically steamrolls Ethan into renting her a room in his house, and he isn’t sure this is going to work at all.
The funny thing was I had no idea this was part of a series when I read it, never mind the tenth book! Looking back I can see it, so kudos to Chase for doing such a good job with that.
Ethan is an introvert, a nerd, and completely intimidated Parker when they were in high school together and he was class valedictorian. Parker has the lowest self esteem of anyone I’ve read about in quite a while, but is so charming and self-deprecating that I couldn’t help but root for her. Ethan and Parker become roommates, then friends, then more while Parker tries to figure out her life.
Small town charm is abundant here, as are a lot of laughs from Parker’s crazy large family. I really enjoyed watching both these characters grow and bring out the best in one another. Not much sex either, if that is a factor for you. All in all, a very enjoyable read and yep, I’m looking for the earlier books in this series.
March 17, 2022
This was the first book I have read by Samantha Chase. I never know what to expect. Always On My Mind was an enjoyable read. Parker always felt she was different than her siblings. They knew what they wanted to do in their lives and parker had no clue. She chose to travel and had odd jobs along the way. After her best friend Ty gets married Parker returns home to Magnolia Sound. Wherever she looks her family has some attachment to it. But she does not feel at all connected with it. She needs a place to live since living with some of her family has not worked out recently. She runs into Ethan at the library as he is posting a flyer that he is looking for a roommate. Although he is hesitant to offer her the room he finally agrees.
He remembers her from high school and her bubby personality. A total opposite of himself. He is a professor of science at the community college and quiet and reserved. The saying opposites attract could not be truer of these two. A friendship develops between them. He sees her like no one ever has. He understands the way she is. He sees through her walls. There is one scene in the book that shows everyone including Parker what Ethan sees in her. Finally. Every good relationship should start with friendship. Ethan and Parker started as friends and developed into something special and real. They both found their forevers in each other.
This is my first book from Samantha Chase but certainly not my last.
He remembers her from high school and her bubby personality. A total opposite of himself. He is a professor of science at the community college and quiet and reserved. The saying opposites attract could not be truer of these two. A friendship develops between them. He sees her like no one ever has. He understands the way she is. He sees through her walls. There is one scene in the book that shows everyone including Parker what Ethan sees in her. Finally. Every good relationship should start with friendship. Ethan and Parker started as friends and developed into something special and real. They both found their forevers in each other.
This is my first book from Samantha Chase but certainly not my last.
March 21, 2022
When Parker left Magnolia Sound she thought she shook off the towns dust from her shoes but never say never ….
Growing up Parker’s best friend was Tyler and when he breaks the news that he’s getting married she decide to bear her heart and well the feelings weren’t mutual so she heads back to the one place she said she’s never return to … home …. to lick her wounds ….
Instead of being received with sympathy and open arms Parker feels like she’s constantly under the spot light light and under pressure to be someone or do what the family wants and while she’s a free spirit she needs to settle down ….
She needs space and she needs to breathe , she needs to find herself and finds a place to rent and becomes the roommate of an old class mate ….
Ethan had so much going for him as an academic but decided to stay in small town Magnolia Sound and nurse his ill father and when he passed he was comfortable and in a routine as a lecturer that is until Parker comes steamrolling into his life and home ….
Ethan and Parker are a prime example of opposites attract and they make my heart happy and Ethan really is Parker’s champion and there’s an incident where he stands up to everyone in her defence and coming from Mr reserved himself I couldn’t help but put my hand on my heart and swoon ❣️
The people of Magnolia Sound taught me alot about forgiving , talking things through and moving on … ❣️🥰
Growing up Parker’s best friend was Tyler and when he breaks the news that he’s getting married she decide to bear her heart and well the feelings weren’t mutual so she heads back to the one place she said she’s never return to … home …. to lick her wounds ….
Instead of being received with sympathy and open arms Parker feels like she’s constantly under the spot light light and under pressure to be someone or do what the family wants and while she’s a free spirit she needs to settle down ….
She needs space and she needs to breathe , she needs to find herself and finds a place to rent and becomes the roommate of an old class mate ….
Ethan had so much going for him as an academic but decided to stay in small town Magnolia Sound and nurse his ill father and when he passed he was comfortable and in a routine as a lecturer that is until Parker comes steamrolling into his life and home ….
Ethan and Parker are a prime example of opposites attract and they make my heart happy and Ethan really is Parker’s champion and there’s an incident where he stands up to everyone in her defence and coming from Mr reserved himself I couldn’t help but put my hand on my heart and swoon ❣️
The people of Magnolia Sound taught me alot about forgiving , talking things through and moving on … ❣️🥰
March 22, 2022
I loved this pairing of Parker and Ethan, but in all honesty, I was a bit leery at first. Ethan was a much more beta male than I think I’ve ever read before, and I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. I thought that the whirlwind that is Parker would overwhelm him. Boy, was I wrong!
While Ethan is regimented, a bit nerdy and very self contained, he’s also thoughtful, encouraging and calming presence in Parker’s life. When her overachieving and over-critical siblings pummel her with their opinions and questions, Parker can depend on Ethan seeing not only what she needs for support, but he also sees the woman she is beneath the devil-may-care mask she has worn all her life. They bring out the absolute best in each other.
It’s funny how different some former main characters can act in subsequent books in a series. While cousins Mallory, Sam and Jake are just as wonderful and sweet as they were in their own books, Parker’s siblings were, in my opinion, jerks in this one. But they also made me cheer that much more for Parker, and Ethan…which again, was probably why Ms. Chase twisted them us like she did!
After ten books, this series is just as fresh and fun as it was when we readers were first invited to visit Magnolia Sound. With at least one more cousin to get their story…if I’m remembering correctly…I can’t wait to see what Samantha Chase has in store. But it’ll be hard to top Parker and Ethan!
While Ethan is regimented, a bit nerdy and very self contained, he’s also thoughtful, encouraging and calming presence in Parker’s life. When her overachieving and over-critical siblings pummel her with their opinions and questions, Parker can depend on Ethan seeing not only what she needs for support, but he also sees the woman she is beneath the devil-may-care mask she has worn all her life. They bring out the absolute best in each other.
It’s funny how different some former main characters can act in subsequent books in a series. While cousins Mallory, Sam and Jake are just as wonderful and sweet as they were in their own books, Parker’s siblings were, in my opinion, jerks in this one. But they also made me cheer that much more for Parker, and Ethan…which again, was probably why Ms. Chase twisted them us like she did!
After ten books, this series is just as fresh and fun as it was when we readers were first invited to visit Magnolia Sound. With at least one more cousin to get their story…if I’m remembering correctly…I can’t wait to see what Samantha Chase has in store. But it’ll be hard to top Parker and Ethan!
March 22, 2022
This is definitely one of my favorite books in this series. I’ve never been able to relate to Parker, but this story gave me more of an insight into who she is and for better or worse growing up in a family of overachievers, isn’t easy. I really felt for her when she shows back up in Magnolia Sound and her family is less than welcoming. I personally think it was kismet with her being in the library at the exact same time that Ethan was there putting up his ad looking for a roommate. I wasn’t sure about Ethan at first, but I liked how they got along, and they helped each other, and I loved how they started to see life and themselves in a better and different way and they each came into the person they were meant to be. I loved Scarlett and her support of Parker, and I hope that Georgia 2.0 stays around for a while. At times I could definitely relate to her with her family and their expectations, and I was so impressed when Ethan put it all into perspective with her family, he got my overwhelming love and devotion for that grand gesture, and I like how we found out her little secret about Ethan as well. The letter at the end of the book had me crying and was perfect for Parker and was exactly what she needed at that exact time. I have to say I had a weird feeling reading the epilogue and I knew something was going to happen and now I’m wondering where this is going to go next.
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