What do you think?
Rate this book
Tempered Steel #1
Whistlin' Dixie
A man on a mission....
Mackenzie Coalson was determined to rebuild his hometown after a devastating flood left it in ruins. He has no time for a relationship and all the romantic junk that goes with it. He has a vandal to catch and no sweet smelling bundle of femininity is going to sway him.
A woman protecting her family.....
Dixie Harris charged into the county sheriff's office with a sassy sway and a smart mouth, eager to give the sheriff, and anyone else, a piece of her mind. When she locks horns with the devil himself, in the form of Mac Coalson, she quickly learns he has a temper to rival hers, even if he's the living epitome of her sexual fantasies.
When the two unite to catch a potential murderer, it's in everyone's best interest to keep it, "business only". But that's hard to do when their combined attraction is volatile enough to burn down the town.
http://goo.gl/62rVI7 Amazon link
Mackenzie Coalson was determined to rebuild his hometown after a devastating flood left it in ruins. He has no time for a relationship and all the romantic junk that goes with it. He has a vandal to catch and no sweet smelling bundle of femininity is going to sway him.
A woman protecting her family.....
Dixie Harris charged into the county sheriff's office with a sassy sway and a smart mouth, eager to give the sheriff, and anyone else, a piece of her mind. When she locks horns with the devil himself, in the form of Mac Coalson, she quickly learns he has a temper to rival hers, even if he's the living epitome of her sexual fantasies.
When the two unite to catch a potential murderer, it's in everyone's best interest to keep it, "business only". But that's hard to do when their combined attraction is volatile enough to burn down the town.
http://goo.gl/62rVI7 Amazon link
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2014
437 people are currently reading
676 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Adams
49 books982 followersMaggie Adams is an Amazon Best Selling contemporary romance author. Her first book in the Tempered Steel Series, Whistlin’ Dixie, debuted in Amazon’s Top 100 for Women’s Fiction, humor, on November, 2014 and then again at #61 in 2016. Since then, she has consistently made the Amazon best seller 5-star list with Leather and Lace, Something’s Gotta Give, Love, Marriage & Mayhem, and Forged in Fire. She is also the recipient of the Dayreader Review’s Best New Series Award for 2015. Her series has launched the tiny town of Grafton, Illinois, into International recognition with sales in Mexico, Ireland, Scotland, Australia and the UK.
Maggie’s books can be found on eBook and paperback and Audible.
Maggie’s books can be found on eBook and paperback and Audible.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
February 8, 2015
Review from Rising Indies United. 3.5 stars.
This is the debut novel by Maggie Adams. It was a decent read. Parts felt rushed to me though and I feel like there are some holes in the story with Mac and Dixie falling in love. But it is a series I would still like to read more of.
Dixie is a spitfire. She is a kindergarten teacher, 21, and raising her 16 year old brother. Oh and she may be short, but don't make her mad, she has a huge temper! I really liked her.
Mac owns a construction company that keeps getting vandalized. He tries to come off a complete alpha, but he's not. He's just a great businessman that loves his family and community.
Trespassers are caught at one of Mac's job sites. Well, one of those trespassers is Dixie's little brother.
Mac and Dixie butt heads from the start. I like how Dixie didn't back down from him at all. They are both too stubborn for their own good.
Overall, I would tell people to read the sample and take it from there. It's not a bad read, just left me hanging a bit.
This is the debut novel by Maggie Adams. It was a decent read. Parts felt rushed to me though and I feel like there are some holes in the story with Mac and Dixie falling in love. But it is a series I would still like to read more of.
Dixie is a spitfire. She is a kindergarten teacher, 21, and raising her 16 year old brother. Oh and she may be short, but don't make her mad, she has a huge temper! I really liked her.
Mac owns a construction company that keeps getting vandalized. He tries to come off a complete alpha, but he's not. He's just a great businessman that loves his family and community.
Trespassers are caught at one of Mac's job sites. Well, one of those trespassers is Dixie's little brother.
Mac and Dixie butt heads from the start. I like how Dixie didn't back down from him at all. They are both too stubborn for their own good.
Overall, I would tell people to read the sample and take it from there. It's not a bad read, just left me hanging a bit.
May 11, 2016
I was gifted this book from the author (thank you) in exchange for an honest review.
Whistlin' Dixie by Maggie Adams, is full of southern charm and dialect. Who doesn't love a little spit-fire?Dixie, a five foot nothing kindergarten teacher is just that. She is full of sass and she doesn't let anyone push her or her brother for that matter. Mac is determined to rebuild the town from a flood that pretty much destroyed it. You put these two together and you get "sparks" in the form of sexual tension.
I love a good southern story, with all the good sayings and dialect. I grew up in Alabama, at the foothills of Appalachian Mountains (for real no jokes!) and Dixie grew up in a small valley with the mountains surrounding her. So, reading about that in this book was really neat. Adams got all the dialect right in this book, she didn't try to over do the southern drawl.
I loved Dixie right away, just looking at the cover- I fell in love with this book. It just screams, I'm a girl full of sass and I'm not going to take any of your crap! That is very fitting of Dixie, you just can't help but love her. I love reading about strong women who doesn't let a little thing like height get in their way, she doesn't let only being 21 raising her 16 year old brother by herself either. I love her playful banter she has with her brother and with Mac sometimes too.
Mac is swoon worthy, Dixie makes sure we know that. He comes across as stubborn and headstrong at first. When you see he position you see why, He runs the family construction business and he has a job to do. His work is being hindered by a vandal. So, he doesn't have time for games or hmmm to have his mind wander like it does when she is around.
Adams opens up herself by introducing us to several secondary characters, so I forward to see a lot more from Maggie Adams in the future! This is a sweet but spicy romance story. There were a few grammatical errors but I really don't judge a book by that, I judge it by the story. (We aren't teachers grading papers psh)
I give Whistlin' Dixie 4 stars.
Whistlin' Dixie by Maggie Adams, is full of southern charm and dialect. Who doesn't love a little spit-fire?Dixie, a five foot nothing kindergarten teacher is just that. She is full of sass and she doesn't let anyone push her or her brother for that matter. Mac is determined to rebuild the town from a flood that pretty much destroyed it. You put these two together and you get "sparks" in the form of sexual tension.
I love a good southern story, with all the good sayings and dialect. I grew up in Alabama, at the foothills of Appalachian Mountains (for real no jokes!) and Dixie grew up in a small valley with the mountains surrounding her. So, reading about that in this book was really neat. Adams got all the dialect right in this book, she didn't try to over do the southern drawl.
I loved Dixie right away, just looking at the cover- I fell in love with this book. It just screams, I'm a girl full of sass and I'm not going to take any of your crap! That is very fitting of Dixie, you just can't help but love her. I love reading about strong women who doesn't let a little thing like height get in their way, she doesn't let only being 21 raising her 16 year old brother by herself either. I love her playful banter she has with her brother and with Mac sometimes too.
Mac is swoon worthy, Dixie makes sure we know that. He comes across as stubborn and headstrong at first. When you see he position you see why, He runs the family construction business and he has a job to do. His work is being hindered by a vandal. So, he doesn't have time for games or hmmm to have his mind wander like it does when she is around.
Adams opens up herself by introducing us to several secondary characters, so I forward to see a lot more from Maggie Adams in the future! This is a sweet but spicy romance story. There were a few grammatical errors but I really don't judge a book by that, I judge it by the story. (We aren't teachers grading papers psh)
I give Whistlin' Dixie 4 stars.
December 23, 2014
If you are looking for a western with a fiery heroine and a smokin’ hot cowboy look no further! This book is for you! New author Maggie Adams did great job with this story. She filled this story with sexual tension that drove Mac and Dixie crazy as they tried to solve the mystery of who was targeting Mac’s family business. And boy did I love the tension between Dixie and Mac.
The lead heroine Dixie Harris was a hoot to read. I swear I would’ve thought she was a red head with that fiery temper. No one wanted to cross her. Including the sheriff. When Dixie’s fiery temper flared, everyone took cover.
Dixie has raised her little brother since they were young and she will not accept he did what Mac is accusing him of. And Damn Mac for even thinking her brother could do such a thing.
Dixie also had a sweet and caring side we got to see when she mentioned the children she taught at the elementary school in town. This woman would have done anything for her class. Dixie would have you saying awe in one sentence and snorting in the next with a witty comment she would pop off. I loved the two sides to her. They balanced her out perfectly.
Then there was Mackenzie ‘Mac’ Carlson who was a force to be reckoned with. This sexy alpha is never challenged. Ever! Most people run from this man. Who would dare question what he had to say? Dixie would of course. This woman practically brings him to his knees on their first encounter. She challenges him left and right. And Mac cannot stand that she does not back down from him. But his head and his heart do not seem to be communicating.
I loved Mac’s internal struggles when he encountered Dixie. Settling down was not in his cards until Dixie stormed into his life.
This book was a great start to the Tempered Steel Series. It is filled with love and hope while these two try and solve the crimes targeting Mac’s business.
I cannot wait for the next addition to come out early next year. Every time I thought, I knew who was targeting Mac’s business I was wrong, which drove me batty! I hate not knowing!
The lead heroine Dixie Harris was a hoot to read. I swear I would’ve thought she was a red head with that fiery temper. No one wanted to cross her. Including the sheriff. When Dixie’s fiery temper flared, everyone took cover.
Dixie has raised her little brother since they were young and she will not accept he did what Mac is accusing him of. And Damn Mac for even thinking her brother could do such a thing.
Dixie also had a sweet and caring side we got to see when she mentioned the children she taught at the elementary school in town. This woman would have done anything for her class. Dixie would have you saying awe in one sentence and snorting in the next with a witty comment she would pop off. I loved the two sides to her. They balanced her out perfectly.
Then there was Mackenzie ‘Mac’ Carlson who was a force to be reckoned with. This sexy alpha is never challenged. Ever! Most people run from this man. Who would dare question what he had to say? Dixie would of course. This woman practically brings him to his knees on their first encounter. She challenges him left and right. And Mac cannot stand that she does not back down from him. But his head and his heart do not seem to be communicating.
I loved Mac’s internal struggles when he encountered Dixie. Settling down was not in his cards until Dixie stormed into his life.
This book was a great start to the Tempered Steel Series. It is filled with love and hope while these two try and solve the crimes targeting Mac’s business.
I cannot wait for the next addition to come out early next year. Every time I thought, I knew who was targeting Mac’s business I was wrong, which drove me batty! I hate not knowing!
February 2, 2015
I was given a copy for free to provide an honest review...
Mackenzie “Mac” Coalson is on a mission to rebuild his beloved community after a tragic flood destroyed almost the entire town. He has no room in his life for anything other than carrying out this mission, especially since there has been vandalism on several of his job sites which is slowing down his progress.
Dixie Harris and her teenage brother Jamie moved to Grafton after their grandfather passed away. Her goal is to keep Jamie on the straight and narrow until he graduates high school and focus on her job as the new Kindergarten teacher.
Jamie is arrested for vandalizing one of Mac’s construction sites and when Dixie and Mac meet, sparks fly. Neither prepared to face off of fiery tempers of equal proportions nor the sexual attraction.
Mac is truly an alpha male. Strong, stubborn and believes everyone will bend to his will. There were times he was a bit too condescending to the opposite sex. However, most of the time he behaved that way on purpose to get under Dixie’s skin. Which he does is spades. His temper can be a bit off putting at times, but he seems to always make it up with his soft word and in rare cases a demonstration of his softer side. Dixie is a smart and very sassy woman. She can take on Mac’s temper and give it right back. There were sweet and funny moments in the book that made me laugh:
“What is it with you and the whole stalking like an animal thins”- Dixie “Maybe you bring out the animal in me, baby”- Mac “Really? That’s the line you’re going with?- Dixie “Hey, you put me on the spot. I can’t think straight when you’re standing there all sweet and naked”- Mac
This book even had some great secondary characters like Mac’s brother Chance who is known as the “Casanova of the County” who is cheesy, but in a charming way.
“Doing fine now that you’re here, sunshine. You brightened up my day. Care to light up my nights”- Chance
This was a sweet and sexy book. Definitely PG-13, but not NC17. I would recommend it.
Visit shaynareneesspicyreads
Mackenzie “Mac” Coalson is on a mission to rebuild his beloved community after a tragic flood destroyed almost the entire town. He has no room in his life for anything other than carrying out this mission, especially since there has been vandalism on several of his job sites which is slowing down his progress.
Dixie Harris and her teenage brother Jamie moved to Grafton after their grandfather passed away. Her goal is to keep Jamie on the straight and narrow until he graduates high school and focus on her job as the new Kindergarten teacher.
Jamie is arrested for vandalizing one of Mac’s construction sites and when Dixie and Mac meet, sparks fly. Neither prepared to face off of fiery tempers of equal proportions nor the sexual attraction.
Mac is truly an alpha male. Strong, stubborn and believes everyone will bend to his will. There were times he was a bit too condescending to the opposite sex. However, most of the time he behaved that way on purpose to get under Dixie’s skin. Which he does is spades. His temper can be a bit off putting at times, but he seems to always make it up with his soft word and in rare cases a demonstration of his softer side. Dixie is a smart and very sassy woman. She can take on Mac’s temper and give it right back. There were sweet and funny moments in the book that made me laugh:
“What is it with you and the whole stalking like an animal thins”- Dixie “Maybe you bring out the animal in me, baby”- Mac “Really? That’s the line you’re going with?- Dixie “Hey, you put me on the spot. I can’t think straight when you’re standing there all sweet and naked”- Mac
This book even had some great secondary characters like Mac’s brother Chance who is known as the “Casanova of the County” who is cheesy, but in a charming way.
“Doing fine now that you’re here, sunshine. You brightened up my day. Care to light up my nights”- Chance
This was a sweet and sexy book. Definitely PG-13, but not NC17. I would recommend it.
Visit shaynareneesspicyreads
November 25, 2014
I loved Whistlin' Dixie!
It is the story of Max and Dixie who both live in the town of Grafton, which was recently ravaged by flooding. When Dixie and Mac meet it isn't under the best of circumstances: he thinks her brother is one of the hoodlums responsible for vandalizing the properties his construction company is rebuilding. From the start there are sparks but early on it's hard to tell if they will combust or fizzle. Since Mac is big and dark and gorgeous and Dixie is petite, curvy and feisty that spark cannot be denied.
So rather than focus on their attraction they work together to find the real vandals and clear brother Jamie's name. Along the way Dixie and Mac discover there is more than sexual attraction behind that spark.
Maggie Adams created some amazing characters in her first Tempered Steel Novel. Not only are Dixie and Mac incredible, but the other Coalson brothers are gorgeous and hilarious. I'm looking forward to Chance's story since he's a hilarious flirt with a great sense of humor. Sam's story is next and I am literally squealing with anticipation!
Let me not forget to mention just how funny this story is too. There were times I actually laughed out loud (no emoticons necessary!) because the interactions between Dixie and Mac, Daisy and Jamie and even Jamie and Mac were just too hilarious. This was a great story of small town life and falling in love for the first time.
It is the story of Max and Dixie who both live in the town of Grafton, which was recently ravaged by flooding. When Dixie and Mac meet it isn't under the best of circumstances: he thinks her brother is one of the hoodlums responsible for vandalizing the properties his construction company is rebuilding. From the start there are sparks but early on it's hard to tell if they will combust or fizzle. Since Mac is big and dark and gorgeous and Dixie is petite, curvy and feisty that spark cannot be denied.
So rather than focus on their attraction they work together to find the real vandals and clear brother Jamie's name. Along the way Dixie and Mac discover there is more than sexual attraction behind that spark.
Maggie Adams created some amazing characters in her first Tempered Steel Novel. Not only are Dixie and Mac incredible, but the other Coalson brothers are gorgeous and hilarious. I'm looking forward to Chance's story since he's a hilarious flirt with a great sense of humor. Sam's story is next and I am literally squealing with anticipation!
Let me not forget to mention just how funny this story is too. There were times I actually laughed out loud (no emoticons necessary!) because the interactions between Dixie and Mac, Daisy and Jamie and even Jamie and Mac were just too hilarious. This was a great story of small town life and falling in love for the first time.
August 10, 2016
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
He gave her what he must've considered his devilish smile. Two rotten front teeth and a line of dried tobacco spittle had Dixie cringing back. His fetid breath assailed her as he stepped even closer.
Apologize to you? When pigs fly, you Mississippi River rat. I wasn't the one caught fornicating in the parking lot of the local pizza parlor. Hell will freeze over before I apologize.
I tried sending flowers, but she apparently overturned the vase and dumped the contents on the florist's shoes, which I felt obligated to reimburse him for, but the way.
Dixie had worked herself up to quite a state of rage. When he walked in the door, whistling off key, she used her one good arm and threw her bedpan at him. He raised an elegant eyebrow at her display of temper and bent to retrieve it, sitting a vase filled with spring flowers on the counter. 'I suppose I should be grateful it was empty,' he drawled.
My Review:
Whistling Dixie was a fun and delightful read that kept me entertained and engaged throughout. Humor, romance, intrigue, and blasts of steam - all my favorite elements. Ms. Adams turned in an adroitly detailed, active, and entertaining storyline. Her main characters were hot-tempered yet endearing and lovable people who exasperated and vexed each other while their mutual attraction blossomed. This was my first Maggie Adams experience and it is one I will gleefully be repeating for the rest of the week. I was an instant fan and have loaded the rest of the series on my beloved kindle.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
He gave her what he must've considered his devilish smile. Two rotten front teeth and a line of dried tobacco spittle had Dixie cringing back. His fetid breath assailed her as he stepped even closer.
Apologize to you? When pigs fly, you Mississippi River rat. I wasn't the one caught fornicating in the parking lot of the local pizza parlor. Hell will freeze over before I apologize.
I tried sending flowers, but she apparently overturned the vase and dumped the contents on the florist's shoes, which I felt obligated to reimburse him for, but the way.
Dixie had worked herself up to quite a state of rage. When he walked in the door, whistling off key, she used her one good arm and threw her bedpan at him. He raised an elegant eyebrow at her display of temper and bent to retrieve it, sitting a vase filled with spring flowers on the counter. 'I suppose I should be grateful it was empty,' he drawled.
My Review:
Whistling Dixie was a fun and delightful read that kept me entertained and engaged throughout. Humor, romance, intrigue, and blasts of steam - all my favorite elements. Ms. Adams turned in an adroitly detailed, active, and entertaining storyline. Her main characters were hot-tempered yet endearing and lovable people who exasperated and vexed each other while their mutual attraction blossomed. This was my first Maggie Adams experience and it is one I will gleefully be repeating for the rest of the week. I was an instant fan and have loaded the rest of the series on my beloved kindle.
November 18, 2014
Adams weaves a tale of romance, suspense, and humor, in this first book of her Tempered Steel series, and introduces the reader to an ordinary family trying to rebuild their hometown after a major flood. The Coalson clan consists of seven brothers, and their parents, who, along with the rest of their small community, come together to repair the devastation and make their hometown better than before.
Whistlin' Dixie, book one of the series, revolves around the eldest Coalson brother, Mac, who takes on the responsibility of the rebuilding through his construction company. When vandals strike the new homes, he's determined to punish the culprits responsible. Dixie Harris, the new schoolteacher, is just as determined to prove to him that her younger brother and his friends are not the ones to blame.
When their attraction can no longer be denied, they work together to find the true vandals. But when misunderstandings break them apart, it takes the whole town to show them both what's important in life.
Filled with alpha males, sassy females, and enough fiery sex scenes to set the book on fire, Whistlin' Dixie delivers a fun, exciting escape into small town living, and loving.
Whistlin' Dixie, book one of the series, revolves around the eldest Coalson brother, Mac, who takes on the responsibility of the rebuilding through his construction company. When vandals strike the new homes, he's determined to punish the culprits responsible. Dixie Harris, the new schoolteacher, is just as determined to prove to him that her younger brother and his friends are not the ones to blame.
When their attraction can no longer be denied, they work together to find the true vandals. But when misunderstandings break them apart, it takes the whole town to show them both what's important in life.
Filled with alpha males, sassy females, and enough fiery sex scenes to set the book on fire, Whistlin' Dixie delivers a fun, exciting escape into small town living, and loving.
January 22, 2015
*** ARC received on behalf of obsessed by books for an honest review ***
Mac Coalson is the oldest out of 7 brothers and they are all trying to help rebuild their town that was destroyed by a flood, but there seems to be a problem with one to the neighborhoods that is being rebuilt. Its being attacked by vandalism and when Mac thinks he has caught them boy does his trouble start and its in a form of a 5ft sassy mouth who doesn't back down for nobody. Dixie's little brother happens to be part of the group that Mac caught and she knows that he had nothing at all to do with the vandalism but she can't get Mac to listen at all. Dixie stand toe to toe with the 6ft2 man. Dixie marches into his office with a plan that will get her brother and will find the real people behind all the chaos but little did they both know that they both would find love. when a misunderstanding and terrible accident happens can they survive will they let love in and swallow their pride. I loved this story is was funny, it had just enough action and its about finding love. I cant wait to meet the other Coalson men. I would definitely recommend this book and would give it a 4.5 to 5 star .
Mac Coalson is the oldest out of 7 brothers and they are all trying to help rebuild their town that was destroyed by a flood, but there seems to be a problem with one to the neighborhoods that is being rebuilt. Its being attacked by vandalism and when Mac thinks he has caught them boy does his trouble start and its in a form of a 5ft sassy mouth who doesn't back down for nobody. Dixie's little brother happens to be part of the group that Mac caught and she knows that he had nothing at all to do with the vandalism but she can't get Mac to listen at all. Dixie stand toe to toe with the 6ft2 man. Dixie marches into his office with a plan that will get her brother and will find the real people behind all the chaos but little did they both know that they both would find love. when a misunderstanding and terrible accident happens can they survive will they let love in and swallow their pride. I loved this story is was funny, it had just enough action and its about finding love. I cant wait to meet the other Coalson men. I would definitely recommend this book and would give it a 4.5 to 5 star .
March 1, 2015
Dixie is a kindergarten teacher who lives in a small town with her younger brother. When her brother gets hauled into the local sheriff's office for vandalism Dixie meets Mac local businessman who is determined to rebuild their small town from a flood that destroyed it years prior.
The sparks immediately fly between Mac and Dixie and their banter is hilarious. Dixie is only 21
but she's extremely intelligent and I fell in love with her character from the very first page. She's spunky and holds her own against the men at Mac's work-site. Mac is a really southern gentleman and I really enjoyed his character.
This was a real page turner and I couldn't put it down once I started.
Great read! Highly recommended!
~Lee'Anne
The sparks immediately fly between Mac and Dixie and their banter is hilarious. Dixie is only 21
but she's extremely intelligent and I fell in love with her character from the very first page. She's spunky and holds her own against the men at Mac's work-site. Mac is a really southern gentleman and I really enjoyed his character.
This was a real page turner and I couldn't put it down once I started.
Great read! Highly recommended!
~Lee'Anne
January 17, 2015
When I first saw the cover Whistlin' Dixie and read the blurb, I couldn't wait to purchase my own copy. I felt like Dixie spoke to me and maybe to a few other woman out there. LOL I have a tendency to say what I am thinking and it has gotten me in hot water more than once. The beginning of the book grabbed me right up and didn't let go. Mac was a force to be reckoned with...but Dixie was his perfect match. I have so many good things to say about this book. I really liked all of the characters and the introduction to this brand new series. I thought the loving was hot and sweet and the laugh out loud moments were perfect. There was one scene that I didn't see coming....and it had me cringing. The couple in this story also gets their own HEA, which I always love. All in all I think that Maggie Adams weaved a wonderful tale and a beginning to a bright new series that I am looking forward to reading.
January 10, 2015
Reviewed by Brenda Casto for Readers' Favorite
Maggie Adams provides romance with depth, feeling and plenty of real emotion in Whistlin' Dixie. Mac Coalson is using his construction company to help rebuild his hometown, but it seems that someone is out to sabotage his work, so when the local sheriff gives him a call saying he has caught the vandals, well, Mac is ready to wring some necks. Turns out one of the culprits is the brother of the new kindergarten teacher, Dixie Harris, and boy is she spitting mad because she knows her brother is innocent, but can she convince Mac?
Dixie Harris is a spitfire of a character who is quick to anger but also has a wonderful, caring side. Mac Coalson is a no-nonsense guy and the last thing he is looking for is love. The chemistry between the pair is electric, which makes for a page turning read! Just when I thought the pair would get together, author Maggie Adams throws in a twist that left me thinking it could all be over. The author touches on the insecurities that Dixie and Mac have, making the romance seem very real. Their thoughts and feelings literally jump from the pages, which allowed me to feel like I was part of the story instead of just reading it.
Whistlin' Dixie is truly a romance with substance and emotion. Along with a pulse pounding romance, there is also the mystery of who could be sabotaging the new construction in town. As the romance escalates so does the vandalism, creating a sense of tension that kept me wondering what might happen next. Ms. Adams creates a small town feel and throws in a dose of southern charm which brings the setting to life, not to mention several secondary characters including several of Mac's brothers. Easy to like characters, humor, mystery, romantic sizzle, and a satisfying ending make Whistlin' Dixie a must-read for romance lovers. I can't wait to read the next book in the Tempered Steele series.
Maggie Adams provides romance with depth, feeling and plenty of real emotion in Whistlin' Dixie. Mac Coalson is using his construction company to help rebuild his hometown, but it seems that someone is out to sabotage his work, so when the local sheriff gives him a call saying he has caught the vandals, well, Mac is ready to wring some necks. Turns out one of the culprits is the brother of the new kindergarten teacher, Dixie Harris, and boy is she spitting mad because she knows her brother is innocent, but can she convince Mac?
Dixie Harris is a spitfire of a character who is quick to anger but also has a wonderful, caring side. Mac Coalson is a no-nonsense guy and the last thing he is looking for is love. The chemistry between the pair is electric, which makes for a page turning read! Just when I thought the pair would get together, author Maggie Adams throws in a twist that left me thinking it could all be over. The author touches on the insecurities that Dixie and Mac have, making the romance seem very real. Their thoughts and feelings literally jump from the pages, which allowed me to feel like I was part of the story instead of just reading it.
Whistlin' Dixie is truly a romance with substance and emotion. Along with a pulse pounding romance, there is also the mystery of who could be sabotaging the new construction in town. As the romance escalates so does the vandalism, creating a sense of tension that kept me wondering what might happen next. Ms. Adams creates a small town feel and throws in a dose of southern charm which brings the setting to life, not to mention several secondary characters including several of Mac's brothers. Easy to like characters, humor, mystery, romantic sizzle, and a satisfying ending make Whistlin' Dixie a must-read for romance lovers. I can't wait to read the next book in the Tempered Steele series.
April 20, 2015
I received a copy of 'Whistlin' Dixie' in exchange for my honest review.
As this is Maggie's debut book, I was unsure what to expect... but after reading the blurb & looking at the cover I was excited to read more of what was inside. 'Whistlin' Dixie' is book 1 in the "Tempered Steel" series, I can't wait for more.
Straight away you got to meet both Mac & Dixie, both with stubborn, spit fire type personalities.. so within the first chapter your being pulled into a chemistry that both are fighting against. It was like a breathe of fresh air, to read about people not falling or knowing they are falling in love straight away & although generally opposites attract, these 2 are so alike it wasn't funny (personallity wise). Whilst reading Maggie's words had me laughing, crying, getting reading to hit something... although Dixie isn't known for being a spit-fire for no reason.... I was glued to the pages.
As this is Maggie's debut book, I was unsure what to expect... but after reading the blurb & looking at the cover I was excited to read more of what was inside. 'Whistlin' Dixie' is book 1 in the "Tempered Steel" series, I can't wait for more.
Straight away you got to meet both Mac & Dixie, both with stubborn, spit fire type personalities.. so within the first chapter your being pulled into a chemistry that both are fighting against. It was like a breathe of fresh air, to read about people not falling or knowing they are falling in love straight away & although generally opposites attract, these 2 are so alike it wasn't funny (personallity wise). Whilst reading Maggie's words had me laughing, crying, getting reading to hit something... although Dixie isn't known for being a spit-fire for no reason.... I was glued to the pages.
November 26, 2014
Whistlin' Dixie is the first book by Ms. Adams. This is a sweet book about two people hopelessly stubborn and undeniably attracted to each other, who battle to win all arguments while denying their chemistry. I love stories like this with intense attraction, steamy scenes of sexual chemistry, angst, and added suspense. I love how Ms. Adams set up her first book with stories of other characters, ensuring we get more doses of hot characters. I can't wait to read more of her books because she has a gripping narrative--her sexy scenes will leave you fanning yourself. However, Ms. Adams can also splash the cold water with the interruptions which left me frustrated, but longing for more of her tale.
This is a book to add to your TBR list.
ARC kindly provided by Author for an Honest Review.
This is a book to add to your TBR list.
ARC kindly provided by Author for an Honest Review.
December 17, 2014
Beautifully written, this book is a charming look at small town life. Like all honestly good romance novels, it reminds us that love isn't perfect because people aren't perfect. Dixie is a great heroine, but her insecurity resonates with all women who long for someone unattainable. The author writes so vividly that Dixie’s desire and emotion oozes off the pages.
There are some heart-pounding moments that kept me turning the pages. In spite of the chaotic ups and downs, this book has a satisfying happy ending and I can't wait for the next installment.
There are some heart-pounding moments that kept me turning the pages. In spite of the chaotic ups and downs, this book has a satisfying happy ending and I can't wait for the next installment.
January 13, 2015
Mac (Mackenzie) Coalson is a very busy Construction owner. He is helping to rebuild his hometown after the town is devastated by a flood. The homes he is building are being vandalized. The sheriff catches some kids on the property. They are brought to the sheriff's office so their family can get them.
Dixie is called to come get her brother. She is mad and has a very hot temper. The tempers fly when Mac and Dixie meet. I loved the way they would go back and forth with each other.
I can't wait to read the next book.
Dixie is called to come get her brother. She is mad and has a very hot temper. The tempers fly when Mac and Dixie meet. I loved the way they would go back and forth with each other.
I can't wait to read the next book.
November 30, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Whistlin' Dixie! Maggie Adams pulls you in from the first chapter when Mac Coalson and the spitfire Dixie first meet and their attraction is instant. I liked how both Mac and Dixie's points of view were masterfully woven into the story, you could feel their thoughts and emotions. Mac and Dixie's love story had humor, hot romance and mystery all wonderfully written into one heart-warming story. I look forward to reading more about the Coalson brothers!
November 18, 2014
Awesome Book! Easy Read and great story plot. Taking place in Historic Grafton, with two loveable characters; the short and sassy Dixie, and the Tall, Handsome Mackenzie (Mac). They are out to catch a vandal, one to clear her brother’s name and one to save his town. They will make you laugh, and is a great and realistic love story. Excellent cover to cover and I can’t wait for book two!
November 19, 2014
Loved this book!! I couldn't put it down. I caught myself laughing, crying, worrying, gasping, smiling, and enjoying the romantic twist! I fell in love with those sexy brothers and can't wait to continue to read her next book to learn more about those brothers! Job well done Maggie!!!
February 16, 2015
I fell in love with the relationship between feisty Dixie & hot-headed Mac. I love the small southern town feel throughout the story. I love Mac's close knit family! I can't wait to read the next book already! This book was very hard for me to put down, I read it in 1dy.
June 5, 2019
Whistlin' Dixie was a sweet read reminiscent of romances written back in the day. Don't get me wrong there was some fire to this romance but it was just more of a writing style. The characters were strong in their own right and offered some pretty entertaining exchanges.
Dixie was a spunky little thing. She had strength to spare and wasn't afraid to use it. However, her fiery temper often led her into trouble. When her brother was accused of illegal trespassing and vandalism she didn't hesitate to jump to his defense and stand up to the town's golden boy.
Mackenzie was working to rebuild his town after a flood just about wiped it out. Someone keeps vandalizing their finished properties causing more headache than he's willing to put up with. When a group of boys are caught on his property he is more than happy to see them get the maximum penalty as he is sure they are guilty of doing it all. The poor man has no idea how that preconceived notion sets all kinds of things into motion.
I loved Dixie and Mackenzie together. There were several parts where Mac would say the most outrageous things and I'm still not altogether sure whether he was joking or not. He definitely kept Dixie on her toes but she gave it right back to him.
Dixie was a spunky little thing. She had strength to spare and wasn't afraid to use it. However, her fiery temper often led her into trouble. When her brother was accused of illegal trespassing and vandalism she didn't hesitate to jump to his defense and stand up to the town's golden boy.
Mackenzie was working to rebuild his town after a flood just about wiped it out. Someone keeps vandalizing their finished properties causing more headache than he's willing to put up with. When a group of boys are caught on his property he is more than happy to see them get the maximum penalty as he is sure they are guilty of doing it all. The poor man has no idea how that preconceived notion sets all kinds of things into motion.
I loved Dixie and Mackenzie together. There were several parts where Mac would say the most outrageous things and I'm still not altogether sure whether he was joking or not. He definitely kept Dixie on her toes but she gave it right back to him.
November 27, 2014
I have to say I really like the title and cover that Maggie Adams has chosen for the first book in her Tempered Steele series. The series centers on four brothers in the Coalsen family in a town that is rebuilding after major flooding damage due to the Mississippi River overflowing its banks. Ms Adams has given us a nice setting to build her series within and I really appreciated this backdrop to the story. Each story has a standalone HEA, but the characters and a major plot point flow through all the books. Each book features one of the brother’s stories.
The first couple is the eldest son, Mac and a new teacher in town, Dixie. They are thrown together when her younger brother gets blamed for vandalism on Mac’s construction site. This sets them up in opposition, and with both of them having reactionary personalities you have Dixie spitting fire and Mac being hot headed. One of the scenes between them makes a great tie-in to the cover picture of the book. And of course Rule #1 in a romance novel is that heated arguments always turn to steamy encounters.
Ms Adams did a good job of character development and produced a nice supporting cast (some we shall probably see again in the continuation of the series). This is Ms Adams debut novel and as a new author, I think she shows a lot of promise. I use Goodreads rating: 3 Stars is I like it and recommend it to others. I was provided an ARC from the author for an honest review.
The first couple is the eldest son, Mac and a new teacher in town, Dixie. They are thrown together when her younger brother gets blamed for vandalism on Mac’s construction site. This sets them up in opposition, and with both of them having reactionary personalities you have Dixie spitting fire and Mac being hot headed. One of the scenes between them makes a great tie-in to the cover picture of the book. And of course Rule #1 in a romance novel is that heated arguments always turn to steamy encounters.
Ms Adams did a good job of character development and produced a nice supporting cast (some we shall probably see again in the continuation of the series). This is Ms Adams debut novel and as a new author, I think she shows a lot of promise. I use Goodreads rating: 3 Stars is I like it and recommend it to others. I was provided an ARC from the author for an honest review.
October 31, 2016
This is felt like going home and hanging out with everyone I grew up with. This is my “stompin’ grounds,” I know Grafton, IL very well. In fact, I still spend a few summer days cruising the Mississippi and Missouri rivers every year and hanging out along the riverwalk. I’ve got lots of great memories at The Loading Dock, Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, and can’t forget the Fin Inn. Oh, the fun of Camp Piasa and Pere Marquette Park….. I’m sure I’ll be making more memories there next summer! Like I said, this book was home and just as satisfying.
This is the first book that I’ve read by author Maggie Adams. It’s cute, quick, and fun. There’s a little bit of intrigue and steam to keep things interesting. The Coalson family is one big happy family with seven boys who are amazing adults but sound like they were a handful when they were growing up. Each is now trying to make his way in the world. Their world is centered around Grafton, IL, a sleepy little river town where the Mississippi and Missouri meet. It’s prone to flooding and the citizens are a hardy, close-knit group. Like any other small town, everyone knows everyone’s business, but no matter what they’ve got one another’s back. This is a realistic look at hometown America. Dixie and her brother are recent transplants to Grafton, but they’re making an impact, not always for the better.
This one is fun and it looks like the series will be going through all of the seven Coalson brothers.
This is the first book that I’ve read by author Maggie Adams. It’s cute, quick, and fun. There’s a little bit of intrigue and steam to keep things interesting. The Coalson family is one big happy family with seven boys who are amazing adults but sound like they were a handful when they were growing up. Each is now trying to make his way in the world. Their world is centered around Grafton, IL, a sleepy little river town where the Mississippi and Missouri meet. It’s prone to flooding and the citizens are a hardy, close-knit group. Like any other small town, everyone knows everyone’s business, but no matter what they’ve got one another’s back. This is a realistic look at hometown America. Dixie and her brother are recent transplants to Grafton, but they’re making an impact, not always for the better.
This one is fun and it looks like the series will be going through all of the seven Coalson brothers.
June 30, 2015
☆☆Reviewed for Hooked On Books ☆ ☆
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
Wow! I was pleasantly surprised with this book. With the spit - fire girl, the hot cowboy and add in all the twist and turns you get one hell of a book! You instantly get to see the personalities of the characters and meet a wonderful family. You will go from picking sides to wanting to smack both Mac and Dixie.
Mac is trying to rebuild his hometown after a flood destroy it. There has been vandalism on his new homes. When the police catch a couple of teenagers, Mac is ready to throw the book at them. But what he didn't expect was meeting one of the boys sister Dixie.
Dixie is a spit - fire and she will not let her brother take the fall for the vandalism. When she sees Mac she knows she wants him but not before she clears her brothers name.
This is the first book I've read from Maggie and it definitely want be my last.
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
Wow! I was pleasantly surprised with this book. With the spit - fire girl, the hot cowboy and add in all the twist and turns you get one hell of a book! You instantly get to see the personalities of the characters and meet a wonderful family. You will go from picking sides to wanting to smack both Mac and Dixie.
Mac is trying to rebuild his hometown after a flood destroy it. There has been vandalism on his new homes. When the police catch a couple of teenagers, Mac is ready to throw the book at them. But what he didn't expect was meeting one of the boys sister Dixie.
Dixie is a spit - fire and she will not let her brother take the fall for the vandalism. When she sees Mac she knows she wants him but not before she clears her brothers name.
This is the first book I've read from Maggie and it definitely want be my last.
March 17, 2015
Great story! I loved the characters specially Mac. Dixie is a very strong character and I liked that she was very protective of her little brother Jamie.
I also liked all of Mac's brothers, specially Chance.
The bantering and arguments between Mac and Dixie were entertaining but sometimes I was mad because I felt like they could have avoided some of them if they just talked. I do believe that the big difference in age and the lack of experiences from Dixie since she is still very young and naive was the problem when it came to all the fights. But the story is entertaining and I enjoyed it.
You do need to read book 2 because the conflict was not resolved in this book.
We do get a HEA and the story is very romantic even with all the little fights between Dixie and Mac.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
I also liked all of Mac's brothers, specially Chance.
The bantering and arguments between Mac and Dixie were entertaining but sometimes I was mad because I felt like they could have avoided some of them if they just talked. I do believe that the big difference in age and the lack of experiences from Dixie since she is still very young and naive was the problem when it came to all the fights. But the story is entertaining and I enjoyed it.
You do need to read book 2 because the conflict was not resolved in this book.
We do get a HEA and the story is very romantic even with all the little fights between Dixie and Mac.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
September 14, 2017
Brilliant easy which I totally recommend this 1st of the Coalson brothers book.Where we meet Dixie the preschool teacher and Mac 'Mackenzie'the Head of the Mackenzie builder who are building up the houses around after the floods but someone is vandalizing them. But we see how stubbornly hot headed he is and Dixie is as strong headed, but they have this automatic connection which they both deny till someone pushes things in a disastrous consequences, will it connect them or push them further apart, which one will it be?? They are great characters as are all the Coalson family, that we have met & started to see how their characters are if yet
March 8, 2015
There are four brothers in Coalsen family and this story is about the eldest one, Mackenzie Coalsen aka Mac and how he finds love in the fiery Dixie. Although a bit typical, the story is fun to read and interesting to go about. A brief background is also given about all the other brothers so that we can anticipate in our own minds how the next part of the series is going to be.
Read on at Whistlin' Dixie - A Tempered Steel Novel
Read on at Whistlin' Dixie - A Tempered Steel Novel
Read
February 18, 2015It was a good story a lot of great characters. It's a little bit of a softer story than I normally read but still great read and well worth it.I like how you start to meet the other characters that I'm sure will contuine the series. There was a couple of times I felt it moved to fast but then again in book world one day is like weeks. Great book and I would def recommend to other readers. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series
April 14, 2015
This is a wonderful book. It will keep you guessing at every turn. Once I started I was hooked. Dixie and Mac are two hot headed people, who find love through the red they see for each other. My favorite part of the book is when Max tells Dixie to bring a soap box to stand on, when she is ready to talk to him because his neck hurts from looking down at her. They are a cute book couple and I can't wait to see where they go in the next book.
September 22, 2015
Maggie Adams is a new to me author. I'm very impressed! The story of Mac and Dixie is sweet...made me smile more than once. While each of these strong characters has a temper, they have such depth and warmth that truly make them believable. There is sweet romance, there is mystery and intrigue, and there is the hotter side of romance as well. This is set in an area that I'm familiar with, so it was fun reading for me. I highly recommend this book! I can't wait to read the next in the series.
August 15, 2017
only got to page 73 the heroine is a little too "golly gee" for me.. if that makes sense.. plus thinking about wedding bells and babies after the second meeting in which they start as semi-enemies and argue that leads to a hot kiss and groping (even a 21 year old virgin would be a little more intelligent/not that naïve and innocent after having gone to college)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews