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Magnolia Bay #2
No Place Like Home
The girl he always loved ran away to join...the circus. But will a homecoming give him a second chance at giving her a reason to stay in this unrequited love romance?
Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry, would do anything for his town—and his family. So when the mayor—who also happens to be his father—decides to retire, he talks Cade into running for his seat. But Cade is already up to his dimpled cheeks in the town’s post-hurricane revitalization fundraiser—Magnolia Days, featuring a flashy Cajun Circus. If Cade can’t put the bay back on the map as a tourist town, he’ll let the whole community down…and worse yet, his father.
Rosalyn Dupree is a famous aerialist with a secret—actually, quite a few of them. Much to Cade’s relief, she agrees to return to Magnolia Bay for the first time in years as a headliner for the Cajun Circus. But neither her charming former school rival Cade nor her parents know she’s broke, in debt, and nursing a knee injury...among other things. She’d love to move back to the bay for good, but the beloved sport that used to let her fly has become her cage.
Despite her best efforts at resisting, sparks fly between Cade and Rosalyn as they work together on the circus fundraiser. But when everyone’s secrets are revealed and worlds collide, will Rosalyn find forgiveness and restoration in a town being rebuilt? Or will there never be anywhere to truly call home?
Magnolia Bay
Book 1: Where I Found You
Book 2: No Place Like Home
Book 3: Meant for Me
Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry, would do anything for his town—and his family. So when the mayor—who also happens to be his father—decides to retire, he talks Cade into running for his seat. But Cade is already up to his dimpled cheeks in the town’s post-hurricane revitalization fundraiser—Magnolia Days, featuring a flashy Cajun Circus. If Cade can’t put the bay back on the map as a tourist town, he’ll let the whole community down…and worse yet, his father.
Rosalyn Dupree is a famous aerialist with a secret—actually, quite a few of them. Much to Cade’s relief, she agrees to return to Magnolia Bay for the first time in years as a headliner for the Cajun Circus. But neither her charming former school rival Cade nor her parents know she’s broke, in debt, and nursing a knee injury...among other things. She’d love to move back to the bay for good, but the beloved sport that used to let her fly has become her cage.
Despite her best efforts at resisting, sparks fly between Cade and Rosalyn as they work together on the circus fundraiser. But when everyone’s secrets are revealed and worlds collide, will Rosalyn find forgiveness and restoration in a town being rebuilt? Or will there never be anywhere to truly call home?
Magnolia Bay
Book 1: Where I Found You
Book 2: No Place Like Home
Book 3: Meant for Me
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2025
26 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
About the author
Betsy St. Amant
47 books871 followersBetsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of almost thirty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two teenagers, and one furry schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a bachelor of arts in communication and loves teaching and speaking on the craft of writing. When she’s not suffering through a CrossFit workout or baby talking her dog, she can usually be found in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for iBelieve, a devotional site for women, and offers author coaching and editing services through Storyside LLC.
also published under Betsy Ann St. Amant
also published under Betsy Ann St. Amant
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 29, 2025
“𝙄 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙤𝙤, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙨𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨, 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬…” Cade shrugged a little. “𝙄 𝙜𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙄’𝙢 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝘿𝙤𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙮.”
Rosalyn frowned. “𝘿𝙤𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙮?”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬…𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚.” He clicked the heels of his loafers together and flashed a wide grin.
======================================================
This was such a unique plotline - I couldn’t predict what was going to happen!
I was most surprised by the author crafting a strong male character with anxiety. We don’t often see that in novels. St Amant portrays it accurately through all his interactions and balances it well with hope. I immediately identified with his suffering with anxiety as I know it firsthand and flet his anguish and doubts about carrying “the Landry legacy into another generation of glory.” How wonderful to discover that the female lead character also sufferers with anxiety. After years of trying to be the best and dealing with the stress that accompanies such a lofty goal, Rosalyn is tired of falling. It all comes to a head when she spirals out of control after an anxiety attack. I loved watching how they developed coping mechanisms, stamina and journeyed toward triumph.
I loved the introspection! Rosalyn is wise enough to see that her quest for perfection causes her to take shortcuts and seek approval. She also sees that she’s caged by the thing she loves most and that she’s been looking for safety in all the wrong places. I loved the delicate balance the author made in showing not telling these wisdom bites.
Do Cade and Rosalyn discover that there really is no place like home? You’ll have to read to find out. This is a great addition to the series and can stand alone.
My takeaway: “Do what it takes to make it well with your soul.”
I was gifted this copy by the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Rosalyn frowned. “𝘿𝙤𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙮?”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬…𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚.” He clicked the heels of his loafers together and flashed a wide grin.
======================================================
This was such a unique plotline - I couldn’t predict what was going to happen!
I was most surprised by the author crafting a strong male character with anxiety. We don’t often see that in novels. St Amant portrays it accurately through all his interactions and balances it well with hope. I immediately identified with his suffering with anxiety as I know it firsthand and flet his anguish and doubts about carrying “the Landry legacy into another generation of glory.” How wonderful to discover that the female lead character also sufferers with anxiety. After years of trying to be the best and dealing with the stress that accompanies such a lofty goal, Rosalyn is tired of falling. It all comes to a head when she spirals out of control after an anxiety attack. I loved watching how they developed coping mechanisms, stamina and journeyed toward triumph.
I loved the introspection! Rosalyn is wise enough to see that her quest for perfection causes her to take shortcuts and seek approval. She also sees that she’s caged by the thing she loves most and that she’s been looking for safety in all the wrong places. I loved the delicate balance the author made in showing not telling these wisdom bites.
Do Cade and Rosalyn discover that there really is no place like home? You’ll have to read to find out. This is a great addition to the series and can stand alone.
My takeaway: “Do what it takes to make it well with your soul.”
I was gifted this copy by the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 20, 2025
Magnolia Bay is a place that I would like to visit but only for the food but also for the wonderful people there!
I love that we get to see characters from the previous book and learn more about characters, especially Cade this time.
Cade and Rosalyn are so much alike, which makes them both so interesting. They both want to prove themselves as adults and carry so much self imposed pressure.
Reading about an aerialist and a circus was so interesting!
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
I love that we get to see characters from the previous book and learn more about characters, especially Cade this time.
Cade and Rosalyn are so much alike, which makes them both so interesting. They both want to prove themselves as adults and carry so much self imposed pressure.
Reading about an aerialist and a circus was so interesting!
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
January 2, 2026
No Place Like Home - another wonderful story by Betsy St Amant! What a fun visit to Magnolia Bay in the middle of Cade planning the Magnolia Days fundraiser and Rosalyn returning home to heal from a performance injury. If these former rivals can learn to work together, they just might be able to help the town and each other. One of the main themes showed each of the characters dealing with perfection, not being good enough (or THINKING they are not good enough). This book is also a story about surrender and the difference between being needed and wanted, and how we can get that twisted. One of the most beautifully written scenes occurs when Rosalyn goes back to the arena alone to perform on the silks for herself and the audience of One. I could visualize how lovely that would look as she leaned into surrendering. What a beautiful and powerful scene!
Both Cade and Rosalyn each come to terms learning to allow others to help, instead of trying to do everything alone. The author eloquently makes the point “what a gift it gave others to allow them to help.”
Even if we CAN do it without others, we were built for community. This Magnolia Bay story portrays the importance and value of community so well.
While this is a heartwarming story, it’s also entertaining and full of wit and humor. One of the funniest scenes to me happens during the reenactment of a famous scene from Pretty Woman. That is one of my favorite movie scenes. I recognized it right away and laughed as I was reading it. Even though this is book 2 in the series, it does work as a stand alone. I enjoyed this so much and can’t wait to see what happens next in Magnolia Bay.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions were my own.
Both Cade and Rosalyn each come to terms learning to allow others to help, instead of trying to do everything alone. The author eloquently makes the point “what a gift it gave others to allow them to help.”
Even if we CAN do it without others, we were built for community. This Magnolia Bay story portrays the importance and value of community so well.
While this is a heartwarming story, it’s also entertaining and full of wit and humor. One of the funniest scenes to me happens during the reenactment of a famous scene from Pretty Woman. That is one of my favorite movie scenes. I recognized it right away and laughed as I was reading it. Even though this is book 2 in the series, it does work as a stand alone. I enjoyed this so much and can’t wait to see what happens next in Magnolia Bay.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions were my own.
May 26, 2025
In this second of the series, Cade is struggling as town manager to make repairs to Magnolia Bay following a hurricane. He tries to do everything himself and has landed on the idea of a town circus as a fundraiser.
Aerialist Rosalyn and Cade’s former academic competition returns to town and agrees to perform in the circus.
Love Mama D and Cade’s friend group. I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first in the series, but look forward to book three.
My gratitude to Sunrise Publishing for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Aerialist Rosalyn and Cade’s former academic competition returns to town and agrees to perform in the circus.
Love Mama D and Cade’s friend group. I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first in the series, but look forward to book three.
My gratitude to Sunrise Publishing for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
June 19, 2025
Betsy St. Amant's romance stories never disappoint. And this Hallmark style small town second chance romance is no different. Readers will be rooting for Rosalyn and Cade as they work through their past (she ran away and to join the circus leaving him heartbroken) and start falling in love again. A sweet story of faith, hope, and second chances that readers will not want to miss.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
June 10, 2025
No Place Like Home is the second book in the Magnolia Bay series by Betsy St. Amant. You can read it on its own, but I really loved the first book and recommend it too!
Growing up, Cade and Rosalyn were always in competition with each other to see who could get the best grades and end up at the top of their class. Now, after literally running away to join the circus, Rosalyn is back in Magnolia Bay and has agreed to perform in the circus that Cade has arranged as part of his strategy to financially save the town.
Like lots of us, Cade has a hard time delegating tasks! So, he felt like he had to take on everything in order for the festival/circus to succeed. If he let others help, he’d have to make sure that they did it right. In addition to that stress, he had his “regular” job as town manager to do which included dealing with lots of folks’ complaints about pot holes in front of their businesses! With all of that on his shoulders (much of it his own fault for not accepting help), Cade was having anxiety attacks. I thought that this added a lot to the book. Men deal with anxiety and panic attacks too! It didn’t make him less of a man, but he was afraid to share it with anyone. Rosalyn dealt with her own anxiety, but I won’t go into that since it would be spoiler-ish!
I thought that Cade and Rosalyn made such a cute couple, and watching them interact after years of competition was fun. Seeing them fall in love was even more fun!
I definitely recommend No Place Like Home for its well-written characters, mental health subject matter, small town setting, and for the mystery surrounding Rosalyn!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Growing up, Cade and Rosalyn were always in competition with each other to see who could get the best grades and end up at the top of their class. Now, after literally running away to join the circus, Rosalyn is back in Magnolia Bay and has agreed to perform in the circus that Cade has arranged as part of his strategy to financially save the town.
Like lots of us, Cade has a hard time delegating tasks! So, he felt like he had to take on everything in order for the festival/circus to succeed. If he let others help, he’d have to make sure that they did it right. In addition to that stress, he had his “regular” job as town manager to do which included dealing with lots of folks’ complaints about pot holes in front of their businesses! With all of that on his shoulders (much of it his own fault for not accepting help), Cade was having anxiety attacks. I thought that this added a lot to the book. Men deal with anxiety and panic attacks too! It didn’t make him less of a man, but he was afraid to share it with anyone. Rosalyn dealt with her own anxiety, but I won’t go into that since it would be spoiler-ish!
I thought that Cade and Rosalyn made such a cute couple, and watching them interact after years of competition was fun. Seeing them fall in love was even more fun!
I definitely recommend No Place Like Home for its well-written characters, mental health subject matter, small town setting, and for the mystery surrounding Rosalyn!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 20, 2025
I enjoyed this sweet second chance contemporary romance with the hint of mystery danger around Rosalyn. The mystery had me constantly wondering if something bad is going to happen.
Cade and Rosalyn’s back story of competing enemies since school days added to the chemistry and tension between them.
I loved all the additional characters who added to the quirkiness and charm of the small town.
Both characters had struggles, which they only overcame once they realised they needed to be honest with themselves, others and surrender to God.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Cade and Rosalyn’s back story of competing enemies since school days added to the chemistry and tension between them.
I loved all the additional characters who added to the quirkiness and charm of the small town.
Both characters had struggles, which they only overcame once they realised they needed to be honest with themselves, others and surrender to God.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
July 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️s—This was another sweet slow burn, second chance romance set in Magnolia Bay from Betsy St. Amant!
Rosalyn Dupree never thought she’d return to Magnolia Bay—not after becoming an internationally renowned aerialist. But a career-halting injury and rising debt leave her no choice. When Cade Landry, her old high school rival turned town development director, asks her to headline the Magnolia Bay’s Cajun Circus event, she reluctantly agrees.
Cade’s banking on the event’s success to prove himself—but working with Rosalyn stirs up more than just high school memories. As old sparks mix with new tensions, both must decide if Magnolia Bay holds more than just their pasts—and maybe even a future.
It took me a bit to get into this one because the Rosalyn’s secret took a while to be revealed. Once everything came out, it felt a bit fantastical for me. The pace was a bit slower than I’m used to, but I loved them together! Looking forward to reading Linc’s story next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Rosalyn Dupree never thought she’d return to Magnolia Bay—not after becoming an internationally renowned aerialist. But a career-halting injury and rising debt leave her no choice. When Cade Landry, her old high school rival turned town development director, asks her to headline the Magnolia Bay’s Cajun Circus event, she reluctantly agrees.
Cade’s banking on the event’s success to prove himself—but working with Rosalyn stirs up more than just high school memories. As old sparks mix with new tensions, both must decide if Magnolia Bay holds more than just their pasts—and maybe even a future.
It took me a bit to get into this one because the Rosalyn’s secret took a while to be revealed. Once everything came out, it felt a bit fantastical for me. The pace was a bit slower than I’m used to, but I loved them together! Looking forward to reading Linc’s story next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 16, 2025
This is a great addition to the series that you may want to read more than once. This novel is an enemy to more trope, even though you’ll probably conclude that Cade and Rosalyn always really liked each other. They were never enemies, just competitors. Full of zany side characters, this small-town romance is interspersed with good doses of humor and a little suspense. If you look for a theme, I’d say it is accepting that there is no shame in asking for help. Cade and Rosalyn learn this the hard way, which reflects real life for many of us. Cade is one of the most adorable characters I’ve read about in a long time. Rosalyn is interesting and somewhat mysterious. You’ll grow to like her more and more as the novel progresses. The story pulled me in from the start and I enjoyed it all the way through.
April 23, 2025
Another fantastic read. No Place Like Home involves former school rivals, a circus, and secrets. This is a story about the need not to be perfect, about surrender, and about letting other people contribute and work together instead of having to do it alone. Cade and Rosalyn were well-written characters with a history between them. The storyline was engaging, heartwarming, and captivating.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions were my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions were my own.
June 18, 2025
This was a sweet love story set in a beautiful small town that's a little down on its luck after a hurricane. Rosalyn and Cade's back story was very cute, rivals all through school but secretly had crushes on each other. It was fun seeing them reminisce about pranks and school experiments gone wrong like volcanoes and the epic battle for valedictorian. That's why it surprised me so much when the extent of Rosalyn's secrets came out. She's obviously smart and I couldn't understand how she could have made so many poor choices or that she couldn't figure out some answers herself. I can understand her struggle with perfectionism but not really Cade's struggle to live up to his family's legacy as I don't have any politicians in my family. I can understand his trying to do everything himself as I struggle with that at work as well. There were some cute romantic moments and some suspense. Rosalyn felt distant from God but felt she had to fix her problems first and then she could come to Him, which I think most of us have felt at one time or another. Cade was such a noble guy in so many ways, trying to help everyone. I loved his food obsession. I also loved the other quirky characters in town, especially the crabby barista, and the wonderful sense of community. This town reminded me of the town from Gilmore Girls, which I loved. This worked well as a stand-alone but I want to read the other books in the series as Cade's friends seemed great and their stories sound really cute! I liked this story and would recommend it if you like romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I wasn't compensated for my review. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I wasn't compensated for my review. All opinions are my own.
May 13, 2025
No Place Like Home
by Betsy St. Amant
Book 2 in the Magnolia Bay series
Rating: 4/5
Who doesn’t love a good small town, second chance romance?! It has Hallmark written all over it. I loved how the author intros the book with a note about why she wrote the FMC the way she did. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about an aerialist in a circus and can tell the author tried hard to make it accurate but not too technical. Cade and Rosalyn were great main characters who have many flaws (sometimes frustratingly so) who are stressed out to the max and find possible hope in each other. Cade is trying to save his town and Rosalyn is trying to recover but can they find a way to be honest with each other and maybe find happiness? The faith thread was woven throughout but more subtle in my opinion. I loved learning about this quirky small town and what it had to offer. After finishing the story, I immediately purchased the first book since I missed that one.
Highly recommend to those who love a charming, clean, small town romance all about second chances and forgiveness.
My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
by Betsy St. Amant
Book 2 in the Magnolia Bay series
Rating: 4/5
Who doesn’t love a good small town, second chance romance?! It has Hallmark written all over it. I loved how the author intros the book with a note about why she wrote the FMC the way she did. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about an aerialist in a circus and can tell the author tried hard to make it accurate but not too technical. Cade and Rosalyn were great main characters who have many flaws (sometimes frustratingly so) who are stressed out to the max and find possible hope in each other. Cade is trying to save his town and Rosalyn is trying to recover but can they find a way to be honest with each other and maybe find happiness? The faith thread was woven throughout but more subtle in my opinion. I loved learning about this quirky small town and what it had to offer. After finishing the story, I immediately purchased the first book since I missed that one.
Highly recommend to those who love a charming, clean, small town romance all about second chances and forgiveness.
My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
May 30, 2025
No Place Like Home is the second book in the Magnolia Bay series by Betsy St. Amant. This Christian contemporary romance is the story of Cade Landry, whose passion is helping his hometown, and Rosalyn Dupree, a performer and high school classmate of Cade’s. Cade and Rosalyn must now confront their past to help Magnolia Bay.
No Place Like Home is a great balance of story driven by plot and characters. While Cade and Rosalyn are the stars of No Place Like Home, catching up with Mamma D. and other characters from Where I Found You is such fun
If you enjoy enemy to lovers romances with a positive message, add No Place Like Home to the top of your to be read pile. You won’t be disappointed, particularly if you love stories set in small towns. I eagerly await the third book in the series! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
No Place Like Home is a great balance of story driven by plot and characters. While Cade and Rosalyn are the stars of No Place Like Home, catching up with Mamma D. and other characters from Where I Found You is such fun
If you enjoy enemy to lovers romances with a positive message, add No Place Like Home to the top of your to be read pile. You won’t be disappointed, particularly if you love stories set in small towns. I eagerly await the third book in the series! I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 31, 2025
“Are you going to lift that bar or buy it dinner?” Linc asks Cade during a gym scene with their friend Noah. Linc later quips, “I prefer anything to the girl talk Delia wants us to have.” There are different kinds of strength highlighted throughout this story. Town manager Cade Landry has anxiety about his Dad’s expectations, setting up the Cajun Circus, and how to reach out to Rosalyn Dupree after being rivals with her in school. Cade may have a more normal relationship with the bench press and his human insecurities, but these other tests of strength in his life make for great reading.
Butterflies in the stomach mean something new when you are supported by fabric high in the air. Aerialists have long held an appeal for me. I once saw Cirque du Soleil live, and then I really had to take it all in when acrobats and horses worked together to tell a story in Cavalia's Odysseo. For me, time stopped when watching humans defy gravity with fabric. This story gave me the opportunity to fly with Rosalyn and see the crowd from above. I liked it, and I hope you do too!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Butterflies in the stomach mean something new when you are supported by fabric high in the air. Aerialists have long held an appeal for me. I once saw Cirque du Soleil live, and then I really had to take it all in when acrobats and horses worked together to tell a story in Cavalia's Odysseo. For me, time stopped when watching humans defy gravity with fabric. This story gave me the opportunity to fly with Rosalyn and see the crowd from above. I liked it, and I hope you do too!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 6, 2025
What an energetic fun romp
I totally enjoyed the depth of these amazing characters!
Throughout the twists and turns they each learned a lot about themselves. They finally put their trust in the one who holds all things together! Can't wait for the next book from Magnolia Bay to hear what these fun friends are up to.
I totally enjoyed the depth of these amazing characters!
Throughout the twists and turns they each learned a lot about themselves. They finally put their trust in the one who holds all things together! Can't wait for the next book from Magnolia Bay to hear what these fun friends are up to.
May 22, 2025
Betsy St. Amant’s Magnolia Bay is one of those sweet little southern towns I want to return to again and again. This second book in the series was just as enjoyable as the first, maybe even more so since I already loved the town and some of the characters.
Rivals since way back in elementary school, Cade and Rosalyn have a colorful history that majorly gets in the way of their budding romance, which has been slowly blooming for years. They are both fighting their own individual battles, trying to find solutions all by themselves, afraid asking for help will make them weak, which increases the tension between them, making their happily ever after even sweeter. I can’t wait for book 3!
Rivals since way back in elementary school, Cade and Rosalyn have a colorful history that majorly gets in the way of their budding romance, which has been slowly blooming for years. They are both fighting their own individual battles, trying to find solutions all by themselves, afraid asking for help will make them weak, which increases the tension between them, making their happily ever after even sweeter. I can’t wait for book 3!
May 23, 2025
No Place Like Home is the second book, I have read written by Betsy St. Amant and it was such a pleasure. This is part of a series, though it can be read as a stand-alone, I would suggest reading the whole series because once you meet the characters you feel like a Magnolia Bay resident.
The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Cade and seeing him work through learning to take charge of what he wants to do in life, not just what he thinks he’s expected to do as a Landry. I loved pulling back the layers on Rosalyn and seeing some of her struggles, as she seeks approval from others.
The setting and storyline were great. I loved coming back to Magnolia Bay and getting to see some of the same characters. I loved the aerialist aspect. It was such a fun thing to envision. The whole Cajun circus was a fun idea. I was rooting for Cade to pull it all off. Of course, what story would be complete without some conflict? We have issues with the porta potty’s, food poisoning, fake marriages, and mafia. It kept me on my toes, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The second chance romance between Cade and Rosalyn was perfect and sweet, just a low-spice kisses-only romance.
Betsy St. Amant did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
The character development was good. I enjoyed getting to know Cade and seeing him work through learning to take charge of what he wants to do in life, not just what he thinks he’s expected to do as a Landry. I loved pulling back the layers on Rosalyn and seeing some of her struggles, as she seeks approval from others.
The setting and storyline were great. I loved coming back to Magnolia Bay and getting to see some of the same characters. I loved the aerialist aspect. It was such a fun thing to envision. The whole Cajun circus was a fun idea. I was rooting for Cade to pull it all off. Of course, what story would be complete without some conflict? We have issues with the porta potty’s, food poisoning, fake marriages, and mafia. It kept me on my toes, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The second chance romance between Cade and Rosalyn was perfect and sweet, just a low-spice kisses-only romance.
Betsy St. Amant did a great job intertwining faith throughout the book.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2025
Magnolia Bay is definitely the place to be! What a cast of quirky characters, and I love them all!
Meet Cade Landry. Town manager, working hard to restore Magnolia Bay back to her former charm, doing his best to organize the big festival that will hopefully put the town coffers in the black, and potentially the mayoral candidate once the current mayor (his dad) steps down.
Introducing Rosalyn Dupree, aerialist extraordinaire. She’s the one who ran away to join the circus and has returned to help her hometown get back on its feet. Only problem? She’s recovering from a fall, injury, and returning with a basket full of troubling secrets.
Once rivals, can these two come together to achieve what looks like the impossible? Even more, can they let go and build each other up, or will their pride and secrets tear them down?
Well, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. From frog legs to potholes big enough to be a house for a family of four, you’ll find it all in Magnolia Bay!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommended!
Meet Cade Landry. Town manager, working hard to restore Magnolia Bay back to her former charm, doing his best to organize the big festival that will hopefully put the town coffers in the black, and potentially the mayoral candidate once the current mayor (his dad) steps down.
Introducing Rosalyn Dupree, aerialist extraordinaire. She’s the one who ran away to join the circus and has returned to help her hometown get back on its feet. Only problem? She’s recovering from a fall, injury, and returning with a basket full of troubling secrets.
Once rivals, can these two come together to achieve what looks like the impossible? Even more, can they let go and build each other up, or will their pride and secrets tear them down?
Well, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. From frog legs to potholes big enough to be a house for a family of four, you’ll find it all in Magnolia Bay!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommended!
May 18, 2025
I give this 4 1/2 Stars!
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. I would classify this as a Christian romance book. This is the second book in the Magnolia Bay series and can be read as a standalone. The main characters are Cade and Rosalyn. Cade is a development director in Magnolia Bay and Rosalyn is a famous aerialist. When Cade needs to find something that will help his community he reaches out to Rosalyn. Will she agree to come be the headliner for the circus? They used to be rivals now they are planning the fundraiser together will they be able to handle it? Both of them had struggles and struggled with anxiety. I loved how they were there for each other and helped each other. Will Rosalyn decide to stay in Magnolia Bay when the fundraiser is over? I loved the community feeling. I loved watching Cade and Rosalyn fall in love. The side characters were also amazing. I was reminded of Hallmark when reading this book which is high praise for me as I love Hallmark. This book is full of faith, forgiveness, and restoration. If you like small town rivals to friends to more romance with faith then I think you will love this. This is the first book I have read were someone is in a circus and the first book I have read by this author. I was not disappointed now I need to read the first book.
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. I would classify this as a Christian romance book. This is the second book in the Magnolia Bay series and can be read as a standalone. The main characters are Cade and Rosalyn. Cade is a development director in Magnolia Bay and Rosalyn is a famous aerialist. When Cade needs to find something that will help his community he reaches out to Rosalyn. Will she agree to come be the headliner for the circus? They used to be rivals now they are planning the fundraiser together will they be able to handle it? Both of them had struggles and struggled with anxiety. I loved how they were there for each other and helped each other. Will Rosalyn decide to stay in Magnolia Bay when the fundraiser is over? I loved the community feeling. I loved watching Cade and Rosalyn fall in love. The side characters were also amazing. I was reminded of Hallmark when reading this book which is high praise for me as I love Hallmark. This book is full of faith, forgiveness, and restoration. If you like small town rivals to friends to more romance with faith then I think you will love this. This is the first book I have read were someone is in a circus and the first book I have read by this author. I was not disappointed now I need to read the first book.
May 21, 2025
How fun to return to the charming town of Magnolia Bay—this time with a Cajun circus, second chances, and so much heart. Cade and Rosalyn’s story is a beautiful blend of unrequited love, small-town charm, and personal healing. Watching them navigate past hurts, family expectations, and their own struggles with anxiety made this such a rich and relatable read.
I especially loved seeing a strong male character openly dealing with anxiety—it’s something we don’t see enough of in fiction. Rosalyn’s storyline as an aerialist, worn down by injury and hidden pain, added so much depth. Their journey felt raw, real, and ultimately redemptive.
This book is a reminder that we don’t have to be perfect—that surrendering, letting others in, and asking for help are all part of the healing. Beautifully written, emotionally honest, and full of hope.
Come for the circus, stay for the love story and the message that home—and healing—can come when we least expect it.
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
I especially loved seeing a strong male character openly dealing with anxiety—it’s something we don’t see enough of in fiction. Rosalyn’s storyline as an aerialist, worn down by injury and hidden pain, added so much depth. Their journey felt raw, real, and ultimately redemptive.
This book is a reminder that we don’t have to be perfect—that surrendering, letting others in, and asking for help are all part of the healing. Beautifully written, emotionally honest, and full of hope.
Come for the circus, stay for the love story and the message that home—and healing—can come when we least expect it.
Thanks to Sunrise Publishing for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
May 6, 2025
“No Place Like Home,” by Betsy St. Amant is the second book in her series, “Magnolia Bay.”
Cade is trying to take on all things needed for his city by himself, possibly too much for him to handle. Can he find a way out of his workload?
Rosalyn’s life is in shambles. She is running away from her problems. Can she find a way out of her issues?
Amant has written a new perspective and takes on a performer with silks, which is not a very common kind of fine arts, that most people have knowledge of. I appreciate her story on bringing this more into the light and for people to understand. It reminds me a bit of Hallmark’s movie, “Romance with a Twist,” although in no way is the same plot.
It is always exciting when an author may try their hand/writing if you will, at something new. It opens up a wider range of readers and may gain more fans on the art.
I also appreciate how the author ties the Lord into the story and how much we need Him, especially in difficult life circumstances and perhaps expectations by others.
Cade is trying to take on all things needed for his city by himself, possibly too much for him to handle. Can he find a way out of his workload?
Rosalyn’s life is in shambles. She is running away from her problems. Can she find a way out of her issues?
Amant has written a new perspective and takes on a performer with silks, which is not a very common kind of fine arts, that most people have knowledge of. I appreciate her story on bringing this more into the light and for people to understand. It reminds me a bit of Hallmark’s movie, “Romance with a Twist,” although in no way is the same plot.
It is always exciting when an author may try their hand/writing if you will, at something new. It opens up a wider range of readers and may gain more fans on the art.
I also appreciate how the author ties the Lord into the story and how much we need Him, especially in difficult life circumstances and perhaps expectations by others.
January 5, 2026
First, let me say how relatable Cade and Rosalyn were in their tendencies to do it all, not ask for help, let pride dictate, lose the joy over duty. The story was a bit drawn-out and the plot seemed over-dramatic at times, but the premise was fun. The secondary characters made it even better, and I enjoyed the unique aspect of Rosalyn’s aerialist career, too.
June 24, 2025
Loved this story!
Returning to Magnolia Bay was so sweet! I loved this story! It had a beautiful message, wonderful characters, and a great setting. I enjoyed every minute of it! Highly recommend!!!
Returning to Magnolia Bay was so sweet! I loved this story! It had a beautiful message, wonderful characters, and a great setting. I enjoyed every minute of it! Highly recommend!!!
May 20, 2025
Good, fun read with characters you enjoy and root for. Set in Magnolia Bay with an interesting plot. Worth the read. This book was provided to me by the author and publisher. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.
September 12, 2025
Struggling to pull off a major fundraising event, Cade runs into a bunch of potholes. Life gives high drama and familial pressure. Sometimes it's worth a long look before seeing what's really important. Bravo, Betsy!
April 26, 2025
Sweet entertaining story! No Place Like Home by Betsy St. Amant brings us back to Magnolia Bay and her entertaining cast of characters. A captivating, page-turning story of friendship and second chances.
We've got Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry and his unrequited love for his former school rival. And Rosalyn Dupree, a famous aerialist with many secrets who returns to her hometown to heal from a fall. Rosalyn has always had a crush on Cade Landry. At her mom's suggestion, she ends up helping her friend Cade with a fundraiser for the town. Only now all of a sudden there is a flirty vibe between them.
Both of them need to come clean with the people in their lives about where they are at and where they want to be. Honesty, overcoming misperceptions about their families, humor, friendship, funny banter, and a sweet romance kept me turning pages late into the night.
I am thoroughly enjoying this entire new series by Sunrise Publications. I recommend this fun story to anyone needing a great story to take to the beach. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
We've got Magnolia Bay’s development director, Cade Landry and his unrequited love for his former school rival. And Rosalyn Dupree, a famous aerialist with many secrets who returns to her hometown to heal from a fall. Rosalyn has always had a crush on Cade Landry. At her mom's suggestion, she ends up helping her friend Cade with a fundraiser for the town. Only now all of a sudden there is a flirty vibe between them.
Both of them need to come clean with the people in their lives about where they are at and where they want to be. Honesty, overcoming misperceptions about their families, humor, friendship, funny banter, and a sweet romance kept me turning pages late into the night.
I am thoroughly enjoying this entire new series by Sunrise Publications. I recommend this fun story to anyone needing a great story to take to the beach. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
April 29, 2025
Cade is determined to make Magnolia Days a success to raise much needed money for repairs to his beloved town of Magnolia Bay. After all, he has a name and expectations to live up to.
Rosalyn left Magnolia Bay and became a famous aerialist with layers of secrets and a drive towards perfectionism.
When she returns, sparks fly.
No Place Like Home is a sweet love story with a lot of twists and turns. It takes on some difficult topics like the drive to meet the expectations of others, the strive for perfectionism, and being too proud to ask for help.
I am very much looking forward to the third book in the Magnolia Bay series.
I received an advance copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
Rosalyn left Magnolia Bay and became a famous aerialist with layers of secrets and a drive towards perfectionism.
When she returns, sparks fly.
No Place Like Home is a sweet love story with a lot of twists and turns. It takes on some difficult topics like the drive to meet the expectations of others, the strive for perfectionism, and being too proud to ask for help.
I am very much looking forward to the third book in the Magnolia Bay series.
I received an advance copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
October 7, 2025
This is so beautiful, and what I took from this book now is the surroundings, God needed her to surround herself with everything so he could bless her, lead her, protect her etc.
She closed her eyes and kissed him back, breathing in the scent of water and sunscreen and his lingering cologne, memorizing the feel of his broad shoulders beneath her hands. Their timing had turned out perfect after all. There was no place like home.
Thank you, Betsy St. Amant.
She closed her eyes and kissed him back, breathing in the scent of water and sunscreen and his lingering cologne, memorizing the feel of his broad shoulders beneath her hands. Their timing had turned out perfect after all. There was no place like home.
Thank you, Betsy St. Amant.
January 1, 2026
The circus girl, Rosalyn, comes back to her hometown after an injury she suffered as an aerialist. She discovers that her old high school rival, Cade, is in charge of a town circus as a fundraiser to help the town recover. And of course, she’s roped into participating.
She’s not prepared for how her feelings toward him have changed over the years. And she’s got a few secrets she’s hiding in addition to her feelings.
This was a sweet small-town romance with some secrets and suspense.
5 stars
She’s not prepared for how her feelings toward him have changed over the years. And she’s got a few secrets she’s hiding in addition to her feelings.
This was a sweet small-town romance with some secrets and suspense.
5 stars
June 13, 2025
"Rosalyn shoved her hands into her shorts pockets, hating she wasn’t sure where else to put them. Normally, poise and grace came easy for her—she was a performer. No one wanted to watch clunky and awkward ten feet in the air. But since coming home, she seemed to have slid back into the role of nerdy, unsure teenager. The girl Cade used to have no problem ignoring until it was time to compete."
Not very many people can say that they ran away to join the circus. But for Rosalyn, she knew that she needed to find the chance to fly. Now she may be back. But only long enough to recover. Or does God have other plans?
Cade isn't proud of some of his past choices. So, he is determined to make his dad and the town proud. No matter what it costs him personally. Is he really following God's plan?
I can see myself in both of the main characters who struggle with asking for help. Roxanne also is trying to outrun some trouble, and she is convinced that letting no one know is better than asking for assistance. Cade has plenty of offers of help with the restoration, but he is determined to bear all of the weight. Like both of them, I take on problems that I was never intended to carry on my own. I love how the storyline helps both characters to have important life revelations.
I do recommend this second book in the Magnolia Bay series about discovering who you really are! While one could follow along with the book, I do think the title is more enjoyable read as a series. I look forward to reading the third book in the coming months.
I read this book as a part of a tour. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Not very many people can say that they ran away to join the circus. But for Rosalyn, she knew that she needed to find the chance to fly. Now she may be back. But only long enough to recover. Or does God have other plans?
Cade isn't proud of some of his past choices. So, he is determined to make his dad and the town proud. No matter what it costs him personally. Is he really following God's plan?
I can see myself in both of the main characters who struggle with asking for help. Roxanne also is trying to outrun some trouble, and she is convinced that letting no one know is better than asking for assistance. Cade has plenty of offers of help with the restoration, but he is determined to bear all of the weight. Like both of them, I take on problems that I was never intended to carry on my own. I love how the storyline helps both characters to have important life revelations.
I do recommend this second book in the Magnolia Bay series about discovering who you really are! While one could follow along with the book, I do think the title is more enjoyable read as a series. I look forward to reading the third book in the coming months.
I read this book as a part of a tour. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
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