Under the Magnolia Trees

by Jamiya Taylor

Eartha Banks learned long ago that in order to experience heaven on earth, she had to let loose and create it for herself. Outside in nature is where she feels like her most authentic self, away from the world and all of its suffocating rules. A seemingly simple encounter opens up the door for Eartha to indulge in more than just work and home

When she meets Clayton Whitfield, everything changes when the gentle stranger lets her know that he wants to see her again and again and again. A bit skeptical, she agrees to meet with him in their spot every Wednesday and Saturday when the sun is about to kiss the city goodbye. What starts out as an innocent venture between two people in the search of peace quickly turns into a passionate love tango that takes them both by surprise.

Clayton crosses off all of the checkmarks on Eartha’s list. But, is creating something serious with Clayton what she’s meant to do or is she supposed to be learning how to just live in the moment? Underneath the magnolia trees and sounds of the creek, Eartha will learn that there’s no harm in saying yes to heaven.

277 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 15, 2024

About the author

Since the age of 11, Jamiya has always loved the art of writing. Growing up with a love for reading and learning in school, she developed the passion and drive to start writing her own stories. From short stories to full length novels, poems, and even a movie script once before she put forth much effort to pursue a career in writing. Jamiya enjoys writing stories centered about Black love, Black experiences, and all things with Black characters as the center. She loves to create complex stories that pull on the heart strings and can open up peoples minds to new things. When she's not writing, you can find her occupied in a good book or watching a three hour long movie that has her full attention.

To connect with Jamiya, you can find her on the social media platforms Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @jamiyathewriter.

Reviews

[denise j. patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Hug in the Middle of the Rain

This is my second book by this author. I like her writing style and the way she tells a story. Wish she had better editing, though... I loved Clayton for Eartha. He was so gentle and patient with her. His protective reassurance allowed her to be herself without hesitation. Also enjoyed watching Eartha find her way back to herself and regain the trust to let love in. This story showed the beauty of being loved peacefully and purposefully by the right one... I did not understand Denzil's moves or motivations. Instead of nurturing and protecting, he caused anguish. His shenanigans were given way too many passes by those around him... I found this book and author during BRAE 2025. I plan to check out the rest of her catalog.

[Anna White · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book full of growth, reflection, and community, and falling in love! I loved every second of this book, from the love notes to park moments! Definitely would recommend!

[Robyn Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this story, but…..THIS BOOK NEEDS AN EDITOR. the amount of typos bothered my soul.