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Magnolia Point, SC aka Man of the Month Club #7
Once Pecan a Time
I’m no prince charming. Especially when an uninvited princess appears on my doorstep and wants to buy the one thing I can’t sell.
PHILLIP
I’m barely holding it together and would have sold this old bed & breakfast I inherited in a heartbeat if not for my daughter, who fell in love with the place at first sight.
Now I’m stuck trying to rebuild our life and reopen the B&B my grandmother left me. I don’t have time for distracting grass green eyes or a smile that turns my world upside down.
I’m determined to load the bubbly princess on the first plane back to the fairytale land she came from before she ruins everything.
But when the beauty connects with my daughter and explains why she’ll do anything to come to an agreement, even my grumpy side can’t help but let her in.
And the second I do, I’m far too gone to ever let her go.
━━━━━━★━━━━━━
Once Pecan a Time is perfect for those who love a swoony small town steamy read featuring a surly single dad blindsided by a cheerful (and scrappy) heroine he just can’t stand...er, get enough of.
PHILLIP
I’m barely holding it together and would have sold this old bed & breakfast I inherited in a heartbeat if not for my daughter, who fell in love with the place at first sight.
Now I’m stuck trying to rebuild our life and reopen the B&B my grandmother left me. I don’t have time for distracting grass green eyes or a smile that turns my world upside down.
I’m determined to load the bubbly princess on the first plane back to the fairytale land she came from before she ruins everything.
But when the beauty connects with my daughter and explains why she’ll do anything to come to an agreement, even my grumpy side can’t help but let her in.
And the second I do, I’m far too gone to ever let her go.
━━━━━━★━━━━━━
Once Pecan a Time is perfect for those who love a swoony small town steamy read featuring a surly single dad blindsided by a cheerful (and scrappy) heroine he just can’t stand...er, get enough of.
142 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2024
37 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Brooks
43 books87 followersEllen Brooks pens sexy & satisfying stories. When she’s not dreaming up her next hero or plotting a happily ever after, you’ll find her absorbed in a novel, relaxing into śavāsana, or downing an iced coffee.
Visit ellenbrooks.info/extras to grab a free book today!
Visit ellenbrooks.info/extras to grab a free book today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 22, 2024
What a great story! Gabby is a wealthy New Yorker who wants to impress her parents so goes to Magnolia Point to buy a small bed and breakfast. Phillip owns said B&B and isn't expecting the beautiful woman on his doorstep. They don't get off to a good start...Phillip is grumpy whilst Gabby is full of sunshine. Mia is a delight! Recommended read!
January 6, 2025
WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Phillip and Gabby met when she goes to Magnolia Point, she wants to acquire Magnolia Manor. After Phillip's wife told him she wanted a divorce and left him to raise their daughter he wanted to leave Georgia. Phillip's Aunt passes away, and leaves him Magnolia Manor when they get there his daughter Mia falls in love with the place. Phillip ends up renovating and putting more work into the place than he was expecting. Gabby's is celebrating with her parents her father's birthday when she is introduced to a man she wants to impress. Gabby's father has early stages of Parkin's disease, and he wants her to be married before something happens to him. Gabby takes that opportunity when her father is talking about acquiring Magnolia Manor to tell him she'll go to Magnolia Point and talk Phillip into selling it to her father. Gabby arrives and her planes were delayed and her luggage was lost, she arrives at the manor late. Gabby tells Phillip what she's come to do and wants a room so that they can discuss things in the morning. Phillip tells Gabby she's can't stay at the manor, and when she insist he tells her she'll be paying the extra fees. Phillip needs to get his daughter Mia off to school, she wants her hair fix but he doesn't know how since he's been busy with the manor. Gabby wakes up late and when she comes downstairs, she needs her coffee. Phillip pulls some from way back on the shelf, when she tastes it she thinks it's disgusting. Gabby tells Phillip that her father's company wants to buy Magnolia Manor but he tells her he doesn't want to sell. Phillip goes back to work while Gabby gets ready for the day. Gabby tells Phillip she needs him to take her to town since she doesn't have her luggage. Phillip tells Gabby she can take one of the bikes off to the side, but she tells him she doesn't know how to ride. Phillip takes Gabby to town, since he needs to grab some supplies. Gabby grabs several dresses and outfits from a little boutique in town, Phillip is waiting on her when she is finished. Gabby asks Phillip why he doesn't want to sell the manor, he never wanted to take it over and his aunt contacted her father before she left it to him. Phillip tells Gabby that when his wife left him and his daughter Mia that she closed down, wouldn't talk or laugh. When Phillip brought Mia to the Manor she started to open up and become herself again. A few days later, Gabby tells Phillip she has another arrangement she wants to present to her father and see if the lawyers can work another contract as soon as she gets the go ahead she'll tell him. The next day Gabby wakes up early and helps Mia, Phillip's daughter with her hair. Phillip comes and finds them in his daughter's room he tells Mia to head downstairs for breakfast. Phillip tells Gabby she can't do this to his daughter, she's going to break her heart when she leaves. Phillip tries to find a way to have Gabby stay, not only is he falling for her his daughter is as well. When Gabby gets the go ahead from her father's lawyers she tells Phillip that instead of them buying the manor he can stay on as the owner but they will run the manor. Phillip tells Gabby he still has to think about the contract and go over everything. Gabby gets everything ready for opening day, she wants to make the manor's famous French toast but Phillip doesn't want that served. Gabby and Mia make the French toast for Phillip for dinner. Phillip realizes that all the bad memories didn't come back from eating the French toast. The reopening day of the manor comes and Gabby's parents are there along with all of Magnolia Points citizens. The manor has bookings out for several months. Phillip introduces himself to Gabby's parents while she's talking to another man. Phillip asks her parents if Gabby can stay and work at the manor but they tell him that's her decision. Then Phillip asks her father for his daughter's hand in marriage. Phillip sees Gabby and talks towards her, then takes her to the top of the manor where they can see as far as the ocean. Phillip asks Gabby if she'll stay at the manor and work, she tells him yes. Phillip then asks Gabby if she'll marry him and she tells him yes. One year later, they are back celebrating in New York at Gabby's father's birthday party. Gabby's parents having taken Mia as one of their own grandchildren, they spoil her. Phillip and Gabby come back to New York once a month to visit her parents and friends. Gabby's kept her apartment in the city just for that reason. Phillip and Gabby like to sneak off to her apartment when her parents are watching Mia, so that they can have time for themselves.
Phillip and Gabby met when she goes to Magnolia Point, she wants to acquire Magnolia Manor. After Phillip's wife told him she wanted a divorce and left him to raise their daughter he wanted to leave Georgia. Phillip's Aunt passes away, and leaves him Magnolia Manor when they get there his daughter Mia falls in love with the place. Phillip ends up renovating and putting more work into the place than he was expecting. Gabby's is celebrating with her parents her father's birthday when she is introduced to a man she wants to impress. Gabby's father has early stages of Parkin's disease, and he wants her to be married before something happens to him. Gabby takes that opportunity when her father is talking about acquiring Magnolia Manor to tell him she'll go to Magnolia Point and talk Phillip into selling it to her father. Gabby arrives and her planes were delayed and her luggage was lost, she arrives at the manor late. Gabby tells Phillip what she's come to do and wants a room so that they can discuss things in the morning. Phillip tells Gabby she's can't stay at the manor, and when she insist he tells her she'll be paying the extra fees. Phillip needs to get his daughter Mia off to school, she wants her hair fix but he doesn't know how since he's been busy with the manor. Gabby wakes up late and when she comes downstairs, she needs her coffee. Phillip pulls some from way back on the shelf, when she tastes it she thinks it's disgusting. Gabby tells Phillip that her father's company wants to buy Magnolia Manor but he tells her he doesn't want to sell. Phillip goes back to work while Gabby gets ready for the day. Gabby tells Phillip she needs him to take her to town since she doesn't have her luggage. Phillip tells Gabby she can take one of the bikes off to the side, but she tells him she doesn't know how to ride. Phillip takes Gabby to town, since he needs to grab some supplies. Gabby grabs several dresses and outfits from a little boutique in town, Phillip is waiting on her when she is finished. Gabby asks Phillip why he doesn't want to sell the manor, he never wanted to take it over and his aunt contacted her father before she left it to him. Phillip tells Gabby that when his wife left him and his daughter Mia that she closed down, wouldn't talk or laugh. When Phillip brought Mia to the Manor she started to open up and become herself again. A few days later, Gabby tells Phillip she has another arrangement she wants to present to her father and see if the lawyers can work another contract as soon as she gets the go ahead she'll tell him. The next day Gabby wakes up early and helps Mia, Phillip's daughter with her hair. Phillip comes and finds them in his daughter's room he tells Mia to head downstairs for breakfast. Phillip tells Gabby she can't do this to his daughter, she's going to break her heart when she leaves. Phillip tries to find a way to have Gabby stay, not only is he falling for her his daughter is as well. When Gabby gets the go ahead from her father's lawyers she tells Phillip that instead of them buying the manor he can stay on as the owner but they will run the manor. Phillip tells Gabby he still has to think about the contract and go over everything. Gabby gets everything ready for opening day, she wants to make the manor's famous French toast but Phillip doesn't want that served. Gabby and Mia make the French toast for Phillip for dinner. Phillip realizes that all the bad memories didn't come back from eating the French toast. The reopening day of the manor comes and Gabby's parents are there along with all of Magnolia Points citizens. The manor has bookings out for several months. Phillip introduces himself to Gabby's parents while she's talking to another man. Phillip asks her parents if Gabby can stay and work at the manor but they tell him that's her decision. Then Phillip asks her father for his daughter's hand in marriage. Phillip sees Gabby and talks towards her, then takes her to the top of the manor where they can see as far as the ocean. Phillip asks Gabby if she'll stay at the manor and work, she tells him yes. Phillip then asks Gabby if she'll marry him and she tells him yes. One year later, they are back celebrating in New York at Gabby's father's birthday party. Gabby's parents having taken Mia as one of their own grandchildren, they spoil her. Phillip and Gabby come back to New York once a month to visit her parents and friends. Gabby's kept her apartment in the city just for that reason. Phillip and Gabby like to sneak off to her apartment when her parents are watching Mia, so that they can have time for themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2024
A southern insta love story! Meet Gabby, a single NYC socialite with dreams as big as her skyline, and Phillip, a single father to the adorable Mia and the proud inheritor of the charming B&B in Magnolia Point.
Their worlds collide in a delightful twist of fate when Gabby, determined to prove herself to her father's chosen suitor, sets her sights on acquiring the B&B. Little does she know, her plans take an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Phillip, the ruggedly handsome owner.
Their initial encounter is anything but a meet-cute, yet Phillip begrudgingly allows Gabby to stay the night—albeit at a steep price. As they spend more time together, their walls begin to crumble, and sparks fly in the Southern air.
Gabby soon finds herself swept up in a whirlwind of unexpected emotions, her original intentions fading into the background as she discovers a newfound goal: to embrace the enchanting charm of Magnolia Point and the captivating allure of Phillip's company.
But as Gabby's feelings deepen, she faces a pivotal question: Will she make Magnolia Point her forever home? Will she form a bond with Mia, the heartwarming daughter who has stolen her heart?
You can't miss this feel good read full of sugar and spice and everything nice.
Their worlds collide in a delightful twist of fate when Gabby, determined to prove herself to her father's chosen suitor, sets her sights on acquiring the B&B. Little does she know, her plans take an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Phillip, the ruggedly handsome owner.
Their initial encounter is anything but a meet-cute, yet Phillip begrudgingly allows Gabby to stay the night—albeit at a steep price. As they spend more time together, their walls begin to crumble, and sparks fly in the Southern air.
Gabby soon finds herself swept up in a whirlwind of unexpected emotions, her original intentions fading into the background as she discovers a newfound goal: to embrace the enchanting charm of Magnolia Point and the captivating allure of Phillip's company.
But as Gabby's feelings deepen, she faces a pivotal question: Will she make Magnolia Point her forever home? Will she form a bond with Mia, the heartwarming daughter who has stolen her heart?
You can't miss this feel good read full of sugar and spice and everything nice.
April 10, 2024
Once Pecan a Time was super cute! Bit fast relationship-wise for me, but I fell in love with Phillip and Gabby! They were really cute together, and Gabby really fit in their family unit with Mia.
I did find myself looking for a little more spice, though. There were only a couple scenes with not overly graphic spice, so if you're looking for something high heat, this won't be it. It didn't lessen my enjoyment of the book at all as the tone of the book didn't lend itself for being super spicy, but I would've liked to see a little more.
The slight love triangle with Cara felt a little unfinished to me. She definitely had some sort of thing for Phillip that seemed to be ignored by the story fairly quickly, despite the bit of sourness she had with Gabby in the beginning. That situation never really got resolved and felt a little unfinished at the end of the book.
I'm loving the Magnolia Point series so far, and I can't wait to keep diving into the books as they come out! I hope Cara gets her happy ending, too!
I did find myself looking for a little more spice, though. There were only a couple scenes with not overly graphic spice, so if you're looking for something high heat, this won't be it. It didn't lessen my enjoyment of the book at all as the tone of the book didn't lend itself for being super spicy, but I would've liked to see a little more.
The slight love triangle with Cara felt a little unfinished to me. She definitely had some sort of thing for Phillip that seemed to be ignored by the story fairly quickly, despite the bit of sourness she had with Gabby in the beginning. That situation never really got resolved and felt a little unfinished at the end of the book.
I'm loving the Magnolia Point series so far, and I can't wait to keep diving into the books as they come out! I hope Cara gets her happy ending, too!
April 16, 2024
The characters in this story are incredible. Phillip, a single father to Mia, completely changed his life and aspirations just trying to give his little girl a little bit of joy back into her life. Self-sacrifice is part of parenting, and it seems to have become his entire existence trying to get the manor back into shape. Gabby is trying to find some of that joy (even if it's forced) to give her father piece of mind. A different side of the same coin, I guess. She has the best of intentions, even when her her motivations are as questionable as her methods. Little Mia is quite the character though! She knows just how to play her dad, and quickly wraps Gabby around her finger too.
Will Gabby find a way to get the manor from Phillip and "prove" her worth? Will Phillip win out and be happy running the manor with Mia? Mia is holding out hope for her happily ever after, just like in her fairy tales in Once Pecan a Time.
I received a gift copy and volunteered my review. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
Will Gabby find a way to get the manor from Phillip and "prove" her worth? Will Phillip win out and be happy running the manor with Mia? Mia is holding out hope for her happily ever after, just like in her fairy tales in Once Pecan a Time.
I received a gift copy and volunteered my review. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
April 16, 2024
The right man will fall in your lap at just the right time....
I found Gabby difficult to like at the beginning of this book, she is very spoilt, pretentious and entitled. But the more time she spends with Phillip and Mia and the people of Magnolia Point the softer and more genuine she becomes, I also think she seems happier once she is actually working and having an input into society.
I do however really like Phillip and Mia, the love and care he has for his sweet little girl is beautiful to see. He may be gruff and grumpy with the rest of the world, but with Mia she gets his best, and when he occasionally fails, he feels guilty, wanting to do better. And that for me shows just how good he is, he even eventually embraces Princesses, French Toast and Happily Ever After for his girls!
A sweet addition to the series with both Gabby and Phillip taking a journey of self discovery and Mia gaining back the confidence a little girl should have, as her chattering gradually increases. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
I found Gabby difficult to like at the beginning of this book, she is very spoilt, pretentious and entitled. But the more time she spends with Phillip and Mia and the people of Magnolia Point the softer and more genuine she becomes, I also think she seems happier once she is actually working and having an input into society.
I do however really like Phillip and Mia, the love and care he has for his sweet little girl is beautiful to see. He may be gruff and grumpy with the rest of the world, but with Mia she gets his best, and when he occasionally fails, he feels guilty, wanting to do better. And that for me shows just how good he is, he even eventually embraces Princesses, French Toast and Happily Ever After for his girls!
A sweet addition to the series with both Gabby and Phillip taking a journey of self discovery and Mia gaining back the confidence a little girl should have, as her chattering gradually increases. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
April 30, 2024
Okay, so I’m not usually a huge fan of the insta-love trope, but when it came to Phillip and Gabby’s love story, I found it to be so very sweet and swoony that I didn’t even mind!
Phillip is a single dad who has moved back to his hometown of Magnolia Point after his grandmother’s death to take over the bed & breakfast business she left him.
Meanwhile, Gabby is a New York socialite who is determined to get Phillip to sell his bed & breakfast business to her family’s hotel chain. She thinks getting Phillip to sell will be easy, but she couldn’t be more wrong!
“Once Pecan a Time” was definitely on the shorter side, but I thought both characters were well-developed, and even though their love was practically instantaneous, it somehow didn’t feel rushed.
Phillip was the grumpy to Gabby’s sunshine, and I loved how well that worked for them. I also thought it was really swoony the way that Phillip would move heaven and earth for his daughter, Mia. And watching Gabby and Mia bond was so sweet as well! I would definitely recommend!
Phillip is a single dad who has moved back to his hometown of Magnolia Point after his grandmother’s death to take over the bed & breakfast business she left him.
Meanwhile, Gabby is a New York socialite who is determined to get Phillip to sell his bed & breakfast business to her family’s hotel chain. She thinks getting Phillip to sell will be easy, but she couldn’t be more wrong!
“Once Pecan a Time” was definitely on the shorter side, but I thought both characters were well-developed, and even though their love was practically instantaneous, it somehow didn’t feel rushed.
Phillip was the grumpy to Gabby’s sunshine, and I loved how well that worked for them. I also thought it was really swoony the way that Phillip would move heaven and earth for his daughter, Mia. And watching Gabby and Mia bond was so sweet as well! I would definitely recommend!
May 28, 2024
HEA
Standalone, interconnected characters Single Dad, reverse rich/ poor
Magnolia Point series
Man of the Month 2024 series, April
*over 18 readers only *
Trigger/ Content warnings
Parkinson dx of parent
Parental Abandonment
Selective Mutism
Gabby (mfc)
Phillip (mmc)
Mia (daughter of mmc)
Gabby's father wants her married before his Parkinsons gets worse. So far, she hasn't found feelings with any of the men he's introduced. Philip is doing his best to raise his daughter alone after her mother walked out on them. He really needs to get the B&B up and running, get Mia to school and karate on time, and figure out how to do it with almost no money. Mia also doesn't talk to anyone but him, until her. Gabby thinks buying the B&B will help her with her quest to land a man and make her dad happy, but Phillip is not interested in selling. Will either get what they want? Or will they get what they need?
It really took me a hot minute to get interested, but once I got going, I couldn't put the book down.
Standalone, interconnected characters Single Dad, reverse rich/ poor
Magnolia Point series
Man of the Month 2024 series, April
*over 18 readers only *
Trigger/ Content warnings
Parkinson dx of parent
Parental Abandonment
Selective Mutism
Gabby (mfc)
Phillip (mmc)
Mia (daughter of mmc)
Gabby's father wants her married before his Parkinsons gets worse. So far, she hasn't found feelings with any of the men he's introduced. Philip is doing his best to raise his daughter alone after her mother walked out on them. He really needs to get the B&B up and running, get Mia to school and karate on time, and figure out how to do it with almost no money. Mia also doesn't talk to anyone but him, until her. Gabby thinks buying the B&B will help her with her quest to land a man and make her dad happy, but Phillip is not interested in selling. Will either get what they want? Or will they get what they need?
It really took me a hot minute to get interested, but once I got going, I couldn't put the book down.
April 9, 2024
Her Trip of a Lifetime -
Gabby’s mission was to convince Phillip to sell his bed and breakfast, but everything changed after she arrived to meet him and his adorable daughter. Phillip’s life was all about his daughter and fixing up the bed and breakfast so he could reopen it, but his mindset shifted the moment Gabby arrived and turned his quiet life upside down.
Spending time together not only helped Gabby realise the direction she wanted her life to take, but their attraction for each other grew and made them both realise they actually wanted a life together. This is the first time I have read one of Ellen Brooks’ books and I am glad I took a chance on this occasion. This story highlighted how opposites do attract and that not all wealthy people are snobs who wanted to keep to their social circle, which made this story a captivating read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gabby’s mission was to convince Phillip to sell his bed and breakfast, but everything changed after she arrived to meet him and his adorable daughter. Phillip’s life was all about his daughter and fixing up the bed and breakfast so he could reopen it, but his mindset shifted the moment Gabby arrived and turned his quiet life upside down.
Spending time together not only helped Gabby realise the direction she wanted her life to take, but their attraction for each other grew and made them both realise they actually wanted a life together. This is the first time I have read one of Ellen Brooks’ books and I am glad I took a chance on this occasion. This story highlighted how opposites do attract and that not all wealthy people are snobs who wanted to keep to their social circle, which made this story a captivating read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2024
This is the first book that I have read by this author, however I have a very good feeling it will not be my last. I love her writing style and the way she brought two different worlds together. We have Gabby who is by any other terms a spoiled rich girl who is used to getting everything she wants, and in this case, she has her eyes set on the very handsome and rich Easton “Suit” Barclay. She is everything she thought she needed and wanted in life. Until she is faced with the one person who is complete opposite.
Now lets meet Phillip, the new owner of the B&B in Magnolia Point and the single father to a little girl who still believes that fairytales and princesses are real. The last thing he is looking for is a relationship, let a lone a relationship with someone like her.
She is there for what she things is going to find her happiness, when in reality, she is going to find so much more. I absolutely recommend this book and all the books in the Man of the Month Club.
Now lets meet Phillip, the new owner of the B&B in Magnolia Point and the single father to a little girl who still believes that fairytales and princesses are real. The last thing he is looking for is a relationship, let a lone a relationship with someone like her.
She is there for what she things is going to find her happiness, when in reality, she is going to find so much more. I absolutely recommend this book and all the books in the Man of the Month Club.
April 21, 2024
Gabby was brought up in an affluent lifestyle but hasn’t had the best of luck when it comes to romance. When she meets a potential business partner of her father’s she wants to impress him with her business skills, so she decides to approach the owner of a Bed & Breakfast and convince him to sell his location to her father’s company.
Phillip is a single father who has recently moved to Magnolia Point and taken over the Bed & Breakfast that he inherited from his grandmother in large part due to his daughter Mia. When Gabby comes knocking on his door his first impulse is to send her on his way, but he begins to realize that she might just be the best thing to happen to him both personally and professionally.
This is a heartwarming story about love, family and realizing what truly matters. What brings Gabby and Phillip together is their love of family but what keeps them together is the family they want to create together.
Phillip is a single father who has recently moved to Magnolia Point and taken over the Bed & Breakfast that he inherited from his grandmother in large part due to his daughter Mia. When Gabby comes knocking on his door his first impulse is to send her on his way, but he begins to realize that she might just be the best thing to happen to him both personally and professionally.
This is a heartwarming story about love, family and realizing what truly matters. What brings Gabby and Phillip together is their love of family but what keeps them together is the family they want to create together.
April 27, 2024
Gabby and Phillip are so cute in this sunshine, grumpy single dad story. I wasn’t sure it was going to go that way, after she met “the suit”. Gabby’s father owns a lot of properties, mostly hotels and she wants to make her mark. She lives a pretty spoiled life in the big city, and wants more. Phillip is in the middle of renovating his late grandmother’s B and B trying to make a new life work with his young daughter in a very small town. She goes to Magnolia Point hoping Phillip will sell to her father’s business. They have instant chemistry and his daughter, Mia, is enamored with Gabby. I really enjoyed the way they got to know each other and how they were upfront with each other about everything. I was also happy to not have the “third act break-up”. The way Gabby’s parents embraced Phillips and Mia spoke volumes about their characters despite being rich. It was an all around great story!
June 17, 2024
Sweet as pecan pie
Once Pecan a Time: A Man of the Month Club Novella by Ellen Brooks is part of the multi-author Magnolia Point series. This is a sweet, charming and entertaining story about two people who are opposites. Gabby is a NYC socialite who works for the family company, a hotel chain. They are rich but she is trying to make her dad proud of her, so she goes about trying to acquire a small B&B. Phillip and his daughter Mia came to Magnolia Point after he inherited his grandmother's old house which is a B&B. He was ready to sell but when Mia fell in love with the place he decided to do what any good father would....fix the place up and run the business. When Gabby sets her sights on the B&B and breezes into their lives Phillip may fall for the beautiful woman but he is determined to keep the house.
This is a wonderful story with very lovable characters, an amusing story-line, some romance, spicy heat and a delightful HEA.
Once Pecan a Time: A Man of the Month Club Novella by Ellen Brooks is part of the multi-author Magnolia Point series. This is a sweet, charming and entertaining story about two people who are opposites. Gabby is a NYC socialite who works for the family company, a hotel chain. They are rich but she is trying to make her dad proud of her, so she goes about trying to acquire a small B&B. Phillip and his daughter Mia came to Magnolia Point after he inherited his grandmother's old house which is a B&B. He was ready to sell but when Mia fell in love with the place he decided to do what any good father would....fix the place up and run the business. When Gabby sets her sights on the B&B and breezes into their lives Phillip may fall for the beautiful woman but he is determined to keep the house.
This is a wonderful story with very lovable characters, an amusing story-line, some romance, spicy heat and a delightful HEA.
March 31, 2024
Gabby (h), a young woman from a well-to-do family, embarks on a mission to secure a business deal that she believes will impress Easton, a potential suitor her father approves of. To do so, she must convince B&B owner Phillip (H) to sell the property to her family's company. As Gabby attempts to negotiate with Phillip, she finds herself unexpectedly drawn into the lives of single father Phillip and his silent but expressive daughter, Mia, who takes a liking to Gabby. The mutual attraction between Gabby and Phillip grows, despite her original intentions and Phillip's initial resistance due to his past and responsibilities. As they navigate their growing connection, they must balance personal desires with professional obligations and the well-being of Mia. Sweet and steamy grump sunshine, small town romance with a side of angst, family, and feels.
April 1, 2024
Once Pecan a Time by Ellen Brooks is a delightfully fun and quick read!
Gabby lives a charmed live in NYC whereas Phillip and Mia live a simple one in Magnolia Point at a B&B. When Gabby is forced to impress her father and a handsome suit within their company for love, she makes a bold move to go buy out/rescue a B&B that’s not doing so well. She ends up discovering a different side of the world with the handsome Phillip and cutie little Mia, along with all the responsibilities that she never really had in NYC.
I fell in love with these characters because Gabby had such fierce determination and sass and Phillip was such a good father! Little Mia was so cute and optimistic, she believed in fairytales and wanted the hea so badly! The story was really good, had a good pace and to me had so much heart! Loved it! Recommend if you believe in fairytales and hea!
Gabby lives a charmed live in NYC whereas Phillip and Mia live a simple one in Magnolia Point at a B&B. When Gabby is forced to impress her father and a handsome suit within their company for love, she makes a bold move to go buy out/rescue a B&B that’s not doing so well. She ends up discovering a different side of the world with the handsome Phillip and cutie little Mia, along with all the responsibilities that she never really had in NYC.
I fell in love with these characters because Gabby had such fierce determination and sass and Phillip was such a good father! Little Mia was so cute and optimistic, she believed in fairytales and wanted the hea so badly! The story was really good, had a good pace and to me had so much heart! Loved it! Recommend if you believe in fairytales and hea!
April 2, 2024
This is a quick read about Gabby Leigh who comes from a well to do family and doesn't really know what she wants to do with her life.
In order to catch the eye of a wealthy gentleman that her family does business with, she decides to go to Magnolia Point and acquire a bed and breakfast property for Leigh Properties. Except it isn't as easy as she thinks it will be.
Phillip Dupont has inherited the property from his grandmother and at one point thought about getting rid of it but his six year old daughter has fallen in love with it. She is quiet and into a shell but really takes a liking to Gabby.
Even though Phillip has told Gabby he's not selling she's not about to give up. She pushes her way into their life and things change between her and Phillip and even little Mia.
Does she stay or go back home?
4 stars
In order to catch the eye of a wealthy gentleman that her family does business with, she decides to go to Magnolia Point and acquire a bed and breakfast property for Leigh Properties. Except it isn't as easy as she thinks it will be.
Phillip Dupont has inherited the property from his grandmother and at one point thought about getting rid of it but his six year old daughter has fallen in love with it. She is quiet and into a shell but really takes a liking to Gabby.
Even though Phillip has told Gabby he's not selling she's not about to give up. She pushes her way into their life and things change between her and Phillip and even little Mia.
Does she stay or go back home?
4 stars
April 6, 2024
This was an adorable story.
A wealthy socialite, Gabby is very much a fish out of water when she visits Magnolia Point to try to convince Phillip to sell the Bed and Breakfast property left to him by his recently deceased grandmother.
Phillip is a grumpy-ish loner, weighed down by the responsibilities of trying to repair the Bed and Breakfast while also caring for his daughter, Mia, after being abandoned by his wife some years before.
When Gabby shows up on Phillip’s doorstep in a soaked dress and with a business proposal, the game is on! The chemistry of the main characters is great. I liked the slowish burn between them before they give in. I do wish there was more spice — or that the spice in the story was a little more explicit— but that’s just my personal preference! This story is sweet, emotional, and overall just super cute!
A wealthy socialite, Gabby is very much a fish out of water when she visits Magnolia Point to try to convince Phillip to sell the Bed and Breakfast property left to him by his recently deceased grandmother.
Phillip is a grumpy-ish loner, weighed down by the responsibilities of trying to repair the Bed and Breakfast while also caring for his daughter, Mia, after being abandoned by his wife some years before.
When Gabby shows up on Phillip’s doorstep in a soaked dress and with a business proposal, the game is on! The chemistry of the main characters is great. I liked the slowish burn between them before they give in. I do wish there was more spice — or that the spice in the story was a little more explicit— but that’s just my personal preference! This story is sweet, emotional, and overall just super cute!
April 30, 2024
Gabby is a city girl a little clueless and she is looking to make her father proud and get in some negotiation skills securing a new business for their family.
Such business is a small inn at a small town, an inn owned by grumpy single dad Phillip. The inn was left to Phillip by his grandmother and he is in no need to sell.
Obviously this turns into a little inconvenience for the cheerful and very determined Gabby and her reasons for wanting to secure a deal with Phillip. Little do they know that their little battle could turn to so much more.
This story is adorable, not only for the tug and pull between the MC’s, but because it’s cheerful with the addition of a little girl that believes in fairy tales and some meddling parents. The chemistry between Gabby and Phillip is there front and center and also the banter which is super funny.
Such business is a small inn at a small town, an inn owned by grumpy single dad Phillip. The inn was left to Phillip by his grandmother and he is in no need to sell.
Obviously this turns into a little inconvenience for the cheerful and very determined Gabby and her reasons for wanting to secure a deal with Phillip. Little do they know that their little battle could turn to so much more.
This story is adorable, not only for the tug and pull between the MC’s, but because it’s cheerful with the addition of a little girl that believes in fairy tales and some meddling parents. The chemistry between Gabby and Phillip is there front and center and also the banter which is super funny.
April 29, 2024
⭐️3 stars⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I literally finished this book in about an hour!! Such a quick read!
Gabby is from a rich family as they own Leigh properties. Gabby has been shown eligible bachelors but none have caught her eye until Easton. She tries to prove herself by cutting a deal with a grumpy man who shuts her down.
Philip has been passed magnolia manor from his grandma who passed. He had decided to turn it around and refuses to sell. When a girl shows up at his door and tries to get him to sell but he won’t give in.
This book was short and fast paced. I liked the mix of their different backgrounds however I feel like it was a little rushed towards the end. But overall I enjoyed the book and want to thank Ellen for the arc 🫶🫶
🌶️🌶️
I literally finished this book in about an hour!! Such a quick read!
Gabby is from a rich family as they own Leigh properties. Gabby has been shown eligible bachelors but none have caught her eye until Easton. She tries to prove herself by cutting a deal with a grumpy man who shuts her down.
Philip has been passed magnolia manor from his grandma who passed. He had decided to turn it around and refuses to sell. When a girl shows up at his door and tries to get him to sell but he won’t give in.
This book was short and fast paced. I liked the mix of their different backgrounds however I feel like it was a little rushed towards the end. But overall I enjoyed the book and want to thank Ellen for the arc 🫶🫶
May 19, 2024
This was a very enjoyable and quick read.
Gabby is a hotel heiress and she needs to seal this deal to impress a potential marriage match and business partner. She comes across a bit entitled etc but she is just a confident character and needs to see real life to know there is more out there than her dad's business.
Philip lives in small town and has been left a Bed and Breakfast. His adorable daughter Mia wants him to keep it and redo it all magical. He is grumpy but such a softie when it comes to his daughter.
Gabby came to buy this business but Phillip is fighting back until they come to an agreement, all thanks to Mia. As they work together they get to learn more about each other and fall a bit more each day. Their banter is funny, great chemistry, love, found family and spice.
Gabby is a hotel heiress and she needs to seal this deal to impress a potential marriage match and business partner. She comes across a bit entitled etc but she is just a confident character and needs to see real life to know there is more out there than her dad's business.
Philip lives in small town and has been left a Bed and Breakfast. His adorable daughter Mia wants him to keep it and redo it all magical. He is grumpy but such a softie when it comes to his daughter.
Gabby came to buy this business but Phillip is fighting back until they come to an agreement, all thanks to Mia. As they work together they get to learn more about each other and fall a bit more each day. Their banter is funny, great chemistry, love, found family and spice.
July 17, 2025
Once Pecan a Time is funny, sweet, and fairytale-ish with steamy connection and the cutest little girl! Gabby is definitely a spoiled princess with a heart of gold who lacks direction. It is so much fun to watch her and Phillip interact when she shows up at his bed and breakfast making her demands and expecting everything and everyone to fall in line. I adore how she interacts with Phillip’s daughter, and watching her grow and mature is so beautiful. It’s clear Phillip is carrying hurt and trauma though doing his best as a single father. His heart opens so beautifully as the story progresses, and I love the lack of third act drama as the sweetness explodes. This is such a heartwarming novella!
April 15, 2024
This was okay for me.
I wasn't jumping for joy and anxiously waiting for Gabby and Phillip to realize their feelings for each other.
If I'm honest, I didn't really feel "it" with Gabby. I just couldn't get over the fact that a woman who had no interest in working and doing what her father did was all of a sudden so interested in finally sealing a business deal all because she wanted to have some kind of connection with a potential suitor.
Overall, the story was really short. I wish it would've been more so that there was more development between Gabby and Phillip.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this title **
I wasn't jumping for joy and anxiously waiting for Gabby and Phillip to realize their feelings for each other.
If I'm honest, I didn't really feel "it" with Gabby. I just couldn't get over the fact that a woman who had no interest in working and doing what her father did was all of a sudden so interested in finally sealing a business deal all because she wanted to have some kind of connection with a potential suitor.
Overall, the story was really short. I wish it would've been more so that there was more development between Gabby and Phillip.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this title **
April 18, 2024
This single dad, small town, insta-love novella was super cute! And I’m in love with Magnolia Point, South Carolina!
Phillip is a single dad with a 6yo daughter who inherits a B&B in the small town he & his ex-wife, who abandoned them, grew up. He’s forced to move in & plans to reopen after his little girl falls in love with the place.
Gabby is a socialite & heir to a hotel chain who is single & after her father becomes ill, decides it’s time to settle down. As a means to attract a possible “suitor”, Gabby heads to South Carolina to acquire the Magnolia Manor. After spending some time together, sparks fly between the pair & plans change for the better for Magnolia Manor.
Phillip is a single dad with a 6yo daughter who inherits a B&B in the small town he & his ex-wife, who abandoned them, grew up. He’s forced to move in & plans to reopen after his little girl falls in love with the place.
Gabby is a socialite & heir to a hotel chain who is single & after her father becomes ill, decides it’s time to settle down. As a means to attract a possible “suitor”, Gabby heads to South Carolina to acquire the Magnolia Manor. After spending some time together, sparks fly between the pair & plans change for the better for Magnolia Manor.
April 22, 2024
He’s a single Dad, struggling to get his new life ‘open for business’, and doing what’s right for his daughter is all that counts.
She’s a spoiled hotel heiress with a heart of gold, a bubbly personality and doesn’t know the meaning of ‘No’.
The chemistry sparks from the moment their eyes meet, but their agendas are worlds apart.
I loved the sweet tension, the dual POVs, the humour and the steam. My heart was hooked by the way Gabby interacts with Phillip’s daughter, Mia, which made him fall even harder.
It’s a quick read but is full of heart, humour and emotion with a perfect HEA.
Thank you to the author.
She’s a spoiled hotel heiress with a heart of gold, a bubbly personality and doesn’t know the meaning of ‘No’.
The chemistry sparks from the moment their eyes meet, but their agendas are worlds apart.
I loved the sweet tension, the dual POVs, the humour and the steam. My heart was hooked by the way Gabby interacts with Phillip’s daughter, Mia, which made him fall even harder.
It’s a quick read but is full of heart, humour and emotion with a perfect HEA.
Thank you to the author.
April 25, 2024
Once Pecan a Time is part of the Man of the Month Club series: Magnolia Point. It's a short and steamy, OTT, grumpy-sunshine, opposites-attract, small town romance. Gabby is a city girl from NY whose parents are in the hospitality business. Phillip is a hunky, grumpy, single dad and owner of a B&B in Magnolia Point that Gabby wants to try and buy. But Phillip isn't interested. His 6 year old daughter, Mia loves it, and he doesn't want to sell. The chemistry was hot, the drama was low, and we got a very happy ending. This was another great sweet and spicy read from Ellen.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2024
I loved this sweet novella. Gabby and Phillip are from two very different worlds but are brought together when Gabby wants to show her father, and possible future husband, how capable she is when she sets off to Magnolia Point to buy a BNB from Philip. What Gabby does not envisage is her and Phillip having instant chemistry and they inevitably begin a romantic relationship. Add to the mix Phillip’s precocious daughter and you have the start of a beautiful little family. I loved this book and I adored the dynamics between the characters. Looking forward to reading more from Ellen Brooks.
April 29, 2024
Easton is not the right guy for Gabby, and her mom knows that. He fits the bill of rich, and able, but not of the love for the rest of her life. Gabby goes to rescue a bed and breakfast from a country boy that she didn't know that she needed, and his daughter. There was nothing about country life, or life outside of the hotel she lived in in the city that she ever would have dreamed of making her life. Until she meets Phillip. A stubborn single dad that had inherited his grandmother's dream B&B. Together they try to turn around both the property and the rest of all three of their lives. I really enjoyed this read. It was my first Ellen Brooks read, but will not be my last!
April 24, 2024
The book is very well written but I didn’t feel an emotional connection with the characters and the personal storyline felt very rushed and disconnected. I didn’t like Gabby at first but I soon softened to her and I would have liked to have learned a bit more about Phillip. I did love that a NYC born and bred fell for the small town charm of Magonlia Point.
Gabby’s mum and dad seem like a fun couple that could have a spicy book written.
The book was great but I didn’t get as invested in the characters as I would have liked.
Gabby’s mum and dad seem like a fun couple that could have a spicy book written.
The book was great but I didn’t get as invested in the characters as I would have liked.
April 24, 2024
Oh how I fell in love with Magnolia Place. As someone who lives in the Lowcountry in SC, I felt like I was right there at Magnolia Manor surrounded by the Pecan trees. I fell in love with Gabby and Phillip as well as sweet Mia. Gabby lives in New York City, trying to impress “the suit” who is partnering with her father’s business. So she needs to head to SC to hopefully purchase Magnolia Manor and impress him. But Phillip was guarded and stubborn, for good reasons, and these two with all their banter were perfect for each other. Such a great read and I can’t wait to read the next one!
April 21, 2025
A New York socialite meets southern small town charm. Gabby has come to prove herself by acquiring a Bed and Breakfast for her father’s company. Phillip is scrambling to bring back the B&B his grandmother left him and provide a happy home for his daughter. His whole world is turned upside down by a beautiful quirky woman. Loved the humor, steamy tension, and the sweet moments. Wanted a bit more depth but for a quick read it was charming. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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