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Magnolia (Delfosse-Brothers
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 13, 2026
It's easily a 5 star read for me. This book from the author's note captured my attention and I finished this book within 5 hours. Mimi Rhine is an absolute delight when it comes to writing, I have Raindrops before and I still go back to the book from time to time; this time I definitely relate to this particular death because I have lost a parent and it is never easy.
I so much love the love and patience between Janiss and Dayyan, they are my babies. Janiss has a lot of trauma from a neglectful mother to the death of his first love who made him feel seen, I was so happy when Dayyan came into the picture and made his life colourful. They both made each other's life more colorful.
Janiss parents and siblings I adore them especially Luca, I can't wait to read his book, I definitely know that it will hurt but I can't wait for him to get his happily ever after. Oh my God how could I forget Valerie when I read raindrop and in the final chapter which was her POV where they mentioned her friend who is her crush getting married I was so curious and to my greatest surprise the crush is Janiss? I did not expect that.
I will definitely reread this book again.
I so much love the love and patience between Janiss and Dayyan, they are my babies. Janiss has a lot of trauma from a neglectful mother to the death of his first love who made him feel seen, I was so happy when Dayyan came into the picture and made his life colourful. They both made each other's life more colorful.
Janiss parents and siblings I adore them especially Luca, I can't wait to read his book, I definitely know that it will hurt but I can't wait for him to get his happily ever after. Oh my God how could I forget Valerie when I read raindrop and in the final chapter which was her POV where they mentioned her friend who is her crush getting married I was so curious and to my greatest surprise the crush is Janiss? I did not expect that.
I will definitely reread this book again.
May 27, 2026
The slow burn was so intense that I started asking when it would finally end.
Jannis is in pain because he just lost his boyfriend, and nobody even knew; I don't even know how he stayed that strong. Then we have Dayyan, who entered his life with so much patience. Dayyan was truly Jannis's moon because of the love and peace he brought; Jannis needed that.
I love that Jannis was allowed to grieve, and he was able to carry us along with him. I love the silent moments between these two and the family support because without their meddling, the slow burn would have continued. A true ride or die, which brings me to!!
What was that ending? I was finally getting some moments of peace, since my babies are dating, and boom, sadness struck. I couldn't catch a break, and I'm annoyed. It was especially frustrating because whyyyy? The same set of people kept going through pain again and again; I was beginning to consider reducing my ratings, but I couldn't because of the love between Jannis and Dayyan.
Safe to say, I'm looking forward to Luca's book, even if it means more pain, I guess.
Jannis is in pain because he just lost his boyfriend, and nobody even knew; I don't even know how he stayed that strong. Then we have Dayyan, who entered his life with so much patience. Dayyan was truly Jannis's moon because of the love and peace he brought; Jannis needed that.
I love that Jannis was allowed to grieve, and he was able to carry us along with him. I love the silent moments between these two and the family support because without their meddling, the slow burn would have continued. A true ride or die, which brings me to!!
What was that ending? I was finally getting some moments of peace, since my babies are dating, and boom, sadness struck. I couldn't catch a break, and I'm annoyed. It was especially frustrating because whyyyy? The same set of people kept going through pain again and again; I was beginning to consider reducing my ratings, but I couldn't because of the love between Jannis and Dayyan.
Safe to say, I'm looking forward to Luca's book, even if it means more pain, I guess.
May 28, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
After reading the first book in the series I was definitely curious about Jannis, it was great to see more of his story!
I liked Jannis and Dayyan, it was so easy to want the absolute best for them. I loved how Dayyan reacted to new information from Jannis. He was respectful and trusting even when worried or concerned.
This was definitely an emotional read, but it felt like things were handled in a thoughtful way. And for all the angst -it was refreshing that none of it came from a MC feeling like they had to hide their orientation.
**Though this book focuses on a different couple, I would still recommend reading the series in order since there is a little bit of overlap in the timelines.
After reading the first book in the series I was definitely curious about Jannis, it was great to see more of his story!
I liked Jannis and Dayyan, it was so easy to want the absolute best for them. I loved how Dayyan reacted to new information from Jannis. He was respectful and trusting even when worried or concerned.
This was definitely an emotional read, but it felt like things were handled in a thoughtful way. And for all the angst -it was refreshing that none of it came from a MC feeling like they had to hide their orientation.
**Though this book focuses on a different couple, I would still recommend reading the series in order since there is a little bit of overlap in the timelines.
May 27, 2026
I’ve been super excited for this release! Jannis was fun in Ivy and I was excited to learn more about his selective mutism. From page one of Magnolia I was hooked. I had to know what was happening inside Jannis and his grief.
Dayyan was perfect for Jannis. Together their relationship was so cute even through all the ups and downs, the loss, and uncertainty of what’s to come. Both characters lost so much but still came out in the end together. This was a great hurt/comfort and love after loss story!
Thank you Mimi Rhine for an arc copy of Magnolia!
Dayyan was perfect for Jannis. Together their relationship was so cute even through all the ups and downs, the loss, and uncertainty of what’s to come. Both characters lost so much but still came out in the end together. This was a great hurt/comfort and love after loss story!
Thank you Mimi Rhine for an arc copy of Magnolia!
June 8, 2026
Oof Jannis and Dayyan are perfect for one another!
I fell in love with Jannis in Ivy. I loved his snark, his use of a speaking device because of his selective mutism, and his sweet heart, but I was not ready for his emotional turmoil!😭 The poor baby has been through it. After a rough start to life Jannis was adopted by the most perfect family, his safe space, where he became the wonderful person he is, and where he found his strength is with the amazing group of men who raised him. The close knit family in these books is where my heart lays, each and every one of them is perfect. After a huge loss and secrets Jannis finds Dayyan, his perfect counter point.
Dayyan is the new kid in town, he’s lonely and a little lost until he sees a beautiful boy at the park and after weeks of watching he decides to say hi. These two build a beautiful friendship before any sparks fly. They both heal and grow and learn new things about themselves through their budding relationship, it was beautiful to watch it all unfold. Mimi has a way of making you feel all the feels through her writing. Can’t wait to read Butterfly!
I fell in love with Jannis in Ivy. I loved his snark, his use of a speaking device because of his selective mutism, and his sweet heart, but I was not ready for his emotional turmoil!😭 The poor baby has been through it. After a rough start to life Jannis was adopted by the most perfect family, his safe space, where he became the wonderful person he is, and where he found his strength is with the amazing group of men who raised him. The close knit family in these books is where my heart lays, each and every one of them is perfect. After a huge loss and secrets Jannis finds Dayyan, his perfect counter point.
Dayyan is the new kid in town, he’s lonely and a little lost until he sees a beautiful boy at the park and after weeks of watching he decides to say hi. These two build a beautiful friendship before any sparks fly. They both heal and grow and learn new things about themselves through their budding relationship, it was beautiful to watch it all unfold. Mimi has a way of making you feel all the feels through her writing. Can’t wait to read Butterfly!
June 1, 2026
I really enjoyed Jannis and Dayyan story, it was written in a way that you can REALLY feel Jannis pain and isolation very vividly😢. I LOVE how patient and caring Dayyan was with him...I found it kind of monotonous towards the end and a little confusing in some parts....Does his brothers boyfriend died in that car accident?? ....
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magnolia is the second Delfosse Brothers book and it’s a quiet, contemplative story about love, loss, and loving again.
Middle brother Jannis has selective mutism, the result of childhood trauma and grief.
Jannis lost Danny, his secret boyfriend, when he died suddenly and unexpectedly. Because they weren’t out, he mourns in private, no one truly understanding the depth of their friendship.
Then one day he meets a boy and the words simple come.
Dayyan is new in town and has no idea Jannis doesn’t usually speak to people outside his family. Slowly, over the summer before their final year of school, they become friends and start to develop feelings.
Jannis is so lovely. He has a poet’s soul and brilliant mind. But his mutism leaves him with few friends. And he feels guilty about his growing feelings for Dayyan, worried he’s betraying Danny’s memory.
And Dayyan is so perfect for him. (Even more than the idealized version of first love that Jannis clings to.) Dayyan is so careful with Jannis, all the while navigating his realization he’s not as straight as he thought.
Both MCs have wonderful parents. We already know Phillip and Adrien. I loved seeing how warmly they welcomed
Dayyan into their extended family, accepting if Jannis trusted him, they could too. Dayyan’s parents were equally as supportive. It was refreshing to have that unconditional love.
There’s a heartbreaking development that forces these young men to be stronger than they ever thought they could be. This is an emotional story, be prepared to feel big feelings.
Magnolia has a unique structure, and I really enjoyed the moments near the end where it felt like you were getting a carousel of those two lovely men as they mature, celebrate milestones, and get the storybook ending they deserve.
“Are you happy?” Jannis asks Dayyan as their story concludes. His answer is simple, heartfelt, beautiful.
Parts of Magnolia overlap with Ivy, and we get a hint the upcoming Butterfly. I really enjoyed the teasing banter between brothers. No matter how much they trash talk, they’ll always have each other’s backs.
I can’t wait for Luca’s story next.
Middle brother Jannis has selective mutism, the result of childhood trauma and grief.
Jannis lost Danny, his secret boyfriend, when he died suddenly and unexpectedly. Because they weren’t out, he mourns in private, no one truly understanding the depth of their friendship.
Then one day he meets a boy and the words simple come.
Dayyan is new in town and has no idea Jannis doesn’t usually speak to people outside his family. Slowly, over the summer before their final year of school, they become friends and start to develop feelings.
Jannis is so lovely. He has a poet’s soul and brilliant mind. But his mutism leaves him with few friends. And he feels guilty about his growing feelings for Dayyan, worried he’s betraying Danny’s memory.
And Dayyan is so perfect for him. (Even more than the idealized version of first love that Jannis clings to.) Dayyan is so careful with Jannis, all the while navigating his realization he’s not as straight as he thought.
Both MCs have wonderful parents. We already know Phillip and Adrien. I loved seeing how warmly they welcomed
Dayyan into their extended family, accepting if Jannis trusted him, they could too. Dayyan’s parents were equally as supportive. It was refreshing to have that unconditional love.
There’s a heartbreaking development that forces these young men to be stronger than they ever thought they could be. This is an emotional story, be prepared to feel big feelings.
Magnolia has a unique structure, and I really enjoyed the moments near the end where it felt like you were getting a carousel of those two lovely men as they mature, celebrate milestones, and get the storybook ending they deserve.
“Are you happy?” Jannis asks Dayyan as their story concludes. His answer is simple, heartfelt, beautiful.
Parts of Magnolia overlap with Ivy, and we get a hint the upcoming Butterfly. I really enjoyed the teasing banter between brothers. No matter how much they trash talk, they’ll always have each other’s backs.
I can’t wait for Luca’s story next.
June 15, 2026
**4.5**
This is such a heartfelt young adult romance, with grief being a main feature of the story for Jannis, after the loss of his boyfriend three years ago. A boyfriend no one knows he had as they weren't out yet and, if possible, worse because Danny was the first person at school to take the time to get to know him because of his selective mutism. No, he wasn't new to the school, just one bully and the fear he put into others.
Dayyan is different. From their first meeting, Jannis immediately is talking to him. Tentative at first, but it's never happened before. Their friendship has the chance to blossom before heading to back to school. What Jannis forgets to mention to Dayyan, is his selective mutism, which makes for an interesting first day back.
With all of this going on, Jannis is still living with his grief whilst slowly growing closer to Dayyan. It's causing all the confusing feelings for him, guilt, attraction, and grief at the thought of losing Danny all over again.
Dayyan shows great maturity through it all and, for someone who has never been attracted to a man before, he takes that all in stride as well. Both men have hugely supportive families and annoyingly nosy brothers. But to Jannis especially, being adopted by his parents aged six, his family is one of the most important things to him. The only people he feels safe talking around, and who took him in when he was left alone. Dayyan is a surprise addition to this small group of people and it quickly becomes apparent just how important he is.
It's a very emotional read, with some tough topics but, again, as with the other books of Mimi's that I have read, each topic is dealt with with care and understanding.
**Please be sure to read the content warnings are there are events recounted but also on page**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
This is such a heartfelt young adult romance, with grief being a main feature of the story for Jannis, after the loss of his boyfriend three years ago. A boyfriend no one knows he had as they weren't out yet and, if possible, worse because Danny was the first person at school to take the time to get to know him because of his selective mutism. No, he wasn't new to the school, just one bully and the fear he put into others.
Dayyan is different. From their first meeting, Jannis immediately is talking to him. Tentative at first, but it's never happened before. Their friendship has the chance to blossom before heading to back to school. What Jannis forgets to mention to Dayyan, is his selective mutism, which makes for an interesting first day back.
With all of this going on, Jannis is still living with his grief whilst slowly growing closer to Dayyan. It's causing all the confusing feelings for him, guilt, attraction, and grief at the thought of losing Danny all over again.
Dayyan shows great maturity through it all and, for someone who has never been attracted to a man before, he takes that all in stride as well. Both men have hugely supportive families and annoyingly nosy brothers. But to Jannis especially, being adopted by his parents aged six, his family is one of the most important things to him. The only people he feels safe talking around, and who took him in when he was left alone. Dayyan is a surprise addition to this small group of people and it quickly becomes apparent just how important he is.
It's a very emotional read, with some tough topics but, again, as with the other books of Mimi's that I have read, each topic is dealt with with care and understanding.
**Please be sure to read the content warnings are there are events recounted but also on page**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
May 31, 2026
Magnolia by Mimi Rhine is the second book in the Delfosse Brothers series. This series follows 3 adopted brothers of the Delfosse Family and is a spin off of Bluebird by the same author. This book is a love-after-loss romance that highlights that struggles of grief, heartache and farewells of a lost love. It also emphasizes hope, courage and new beginnings. This book will touch on death in many forms so if you’re sensitive, please check your trigger warnings. There is also mention of child abuse (in the past), parental neglect, anxiety/panic attacks, social exclusion and bullying.
Jannis Delfosse is the second adopted son of Adrian and Phillip Delfosse. He struggles with selective mutism following severe childhood trauma. He only directly speaks to his family and otherwise uses an electronic communication device. Due to this, Jannis tends to be ostracized at school and doesn’t really have any friends. The one friend he had is gone and he’s completely heartbroken. When Dayyan enters his life, Jannis is still struggling with how to move on. No one in his family knew about Danny and now, even with feelings blooming, he isn’t sure how to make room for Dayyan.
This story is a really sweet but heartbreaking love story. Jannis is still young and just entering the world as an adult. Magnolia really dives deep into the maze of grief, especially when that grief has to be dealt with alone. Dayyan coming into Jannis’s life kickstarts a journey of self-healing for Jannis and self-discovery for both boys. The pacing of the book is a little on the slower side, but the plot doesn’t stagnate. I really loved how unique Jannis is as an MMC. His character development was well rounded while Dayyan’s development kind of orbited Jannis. Overall, I gave this book 4 stars.
Jannis Delfosse is the second adopted son of Adrian and Phillip Delfosse. He struggles with selective mutism following severe childhood trauma. He only directly speaks to his family and otherwise uses an electronic communication device. Due to this, Jannis tends to be ostracized at school and doesn’t really have any friends. The one friend he had is gone and he’s completely heartbroken. When Dayyan enters his life, Jannis is still struggling with how to move on. No one in his family knew about Danny and now, even with feelings blooming, he isn’t sure how to make room for Dayyan.
This story is a really sweet but heartbreaking love story. Jannis is still young and just entering the world as an adult. Magnolia really dives deep into the maze of grief, especially when that grief has to be dealt with alone. Dayyan coming into Jannis’s life kickstarts a journey of self-healing for Jannis and self-discovery for both boys. The pacing of the book is a little on the slower side, but the plot doesn’t stagnate. I really loved how unique Jannis is as an MMC. His character development was well rounded while Dayyan’s development kind of orbited Jannis. Overall, I gave this book 4 stars.
May 28, 2026
Magnolia completely wrecked me in the softest, most beautiful way possible.
This story feels incredibly gentle and emotional while also carrying such heavy themes of grief, healing, and learning how to love again. Jannis and Dayyan absolutely had my whole heart from beginning to end.
Jannis is such a beautifully written character. His selective mutism, grief, and loneliness were handled with so much care, and watching him slowly begin to open up again felt incredibly moving. The guilt he carries over loving someone after losing Danny hurt so much because it felt so real. He isn’t just grieving a person — he’s grieving a future he never got to have.
And Dayyan… he was exactly what Jannis needed. Patient, kind, understanding, and so gentle with Jannis’s heart. Their relationship develops slowly and naturally over the course of the summer, and the tenderness between them genuinely made my chest ache at times.
What I loved most was how quiet and intimate this story felt. It’s not overly dramatic, but every emotion lands deeply. The themes of loss, first love, healing, and allowing yourself happiness again were handled beautifully. The final chapters especially completely broke me.
I also really loved the family dynamics in this book. Seeing both boys surrounded by supportive parents and unconditional love added so much warmth to an already emotional story.
This series honestly feels like something special.
This story feels incredibly gentle and emotional while also carrying such heavy themes of grief, healing, and learning how to love again. Jannis and Dayyan absolutely had my whole heart from beginning to end.
Jannis is such a beautifully written character. His selective mutism, grief, and loneliness were handled with so much care, and watching him slowly begin to open up again felt incredibly moving. The guilt he carries over loving someone after losing Danny hurt so much because it felt so real. He isn’t just grieving a person — he’s grieving a future he never got to have.
And Dayyan… he was exactly what Jannis needed. Patient, kind, understanding, and so gentle with Jannis’s heart. Their relationship develops slowly and naturally over the course of the summer, and the tenderness between them genuinely made my chest ache at times.
What I loved most was how quiet and intimate this story felt. It’s not overly dramatic, but every emotion lands deeply. The themes of loss, first love, healing, and allowing yourself happiness again were handled beautifully. The final chapters especially completely broke me.
I also really loved the family dynamics in this book. Seeing both boys surrounded by supportive parents and unconditional love added so much warmth to an already emotional story.
This series honestly feels like something special.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in the Delfosse Brothers series, and once again, Mimi writes something unique and beautiful.
This story follows Jannis and Dayyan.
Jannis has selective mutism because of past trauma and only speaks to his adoptive dads and brothers. At school and around other people, he’s seen as “the weird quiet one” leaving him lonely and isolated.
When he was fifteen, Jannis had his first love, Danny… and then lost him. Three years later, he’s still carrying that grief alone, unable to talk about it because no one even knew they were together.😔
Then Dayyan moves into the neighborhood. What starts as friendship slowly turns into something deeper, softer, and beautiful.
But for Jannis, opening his heart again feels wrong. He struggles with the guilt of moving on, as if falling for someone else means betraying Danny’s memory.
This story was so tender and emotional. 🩷🥹
Watching Jannis slowly grow, heal, and allow himself to love again was beautiful to read.
And Dayyan? He stole my heart. He was patient, caring, understanding, and exactly what Jannis needed.
The romance is sweet, emotional, with just the right amount of spice.
And Mimi… those final chapters absolutely broke me.
I was crying by the end.😩
Such a soft, touching, and beautifully written love story.
Can’t wait to read the 3d book!!
Review of advance copy
OMG this book! 🥹🌿 I loved Jannis & Dayyan so so much. Mimi Rhine really knows how to write characters that crawl into your heart and refuse to leave because wow… this one HURT in the softest possible way 😭💔
Jannis absolutely broke my heart. The loneliness he carries, the grief he’s been forced to hold onto in silence, the way he moves through life feeling unseen… gah 😩 You could feel every emotion pouring off the page. And knowing he only really speaks to his family and then somehow finds comfort so naturally with Dayyan? STOP 🥹🩷
And Dayyan?? What an actual sweetheart. He never tried to “fix” Jannis or rush him through his grief. He just… stayed. Patient, caring, understanding, gentle — exactly what Jannis needed when the world had already taken so much from him 😭✨ Their connection felt so soft, natural and real that I was completely obsessed with every tiny interaction between them.
The romance in this was tender, emotional, healing, and sprinkled with just the right amount of spice 🌶️💕 But honestly? It was the emotional intimacy that got me the most. Watching Jannis slowly allow himself to open up again while struggling with the guilt of moving forward after losing Danny absolutely wrecked me.
And those final chapters??? Mimi Rhine really looked me dead in the eyes and chose emotional destruction because I was SOBBING 😭📚
This series just keeps getting better and I already need Luca's book immediately 🩷
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
Jannis absolutely broke my heart. The loneliness he carries, the grief he’s been forced to hold onto in silence, the way he moves through life feeling unseen… gah 😩 You could feel every emotion pouring off the page. And knowing he only really speaks to his family and then somehow finds comfort so naturally with Dayyan? STOP 🥹🩷
And Dayyan?? What an actual sweetheart. He never tried to “fix” Jannis or rush him through his grief. He just… stayed. Patient, caring, understanding, gentle — exactly what Jannis needed when the world had already taken so much from him 😭✨ Their connection felt so soft, natural and real that I was completely obsessed with every tiny interaction between them.
The romance in this was tender, emotional, healing, and sprinkled with just the right amount of spice 🌶️💕 But honestly? It was the emotional intimacy that got me the most. Watching Jannis slowly allow himself to open up again while struggling with the guilt of moving forward after losing Danny absolutely wrecked me.
And those final chapters??? Mimi Rhine really looked me dead in the eyes and chose emotional destruction because I was SOBBING 😭📚
This series just keeps getting better and I already need Luca's book immediately 🩷
*I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review!*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jannis was left broken when someone he cared about deeply, died unexpectedly. He has carried the grief around for years, because no one knew what they were to each other. Jannis had a dreadful first few years of his life, until Philipp and Adrien adopted him. Jannis is a selective mute, and only speaks to his family, and for some reason Dayyan, who he finds walking his dog in the park.
Dayyan finds Jannis intriguing, he has never been attracted to a man before.
Dayyan and Jannis attend the same school, and become close friends, as their friendship grows, feelings become involved, but Jannis needs closure on another part of his life first.
Mimi Rhine has written yet another, heartwarming but heart wrenching book in this, the second book in the ‘Delfosse Brothers’ series.
The tenderness between these two characters is so moving and beautiful to read. The emotions from the characters were felt deeply.
Jannis is so lonely it hurts, which is so relatable. Dayyan is such a gorgeous soul, which is a bright light for Jannis to hold onto.
Mimi is fast becoming a favourite author of mine, with their storytelling and character development.
Dayyan finds Jannis intriguing, he has never been attracted to a man before.
Dayyan and Jannis attend the same school, and become close friends, as their friendship grows, feelings become involved, but Jannis needs closure on another part of his life first.
Mimi Rhine has written yet another, heartwarming but heart wrenching book in this, the second book in the ‘Delfosse Brothers’ series.
The tenderness between these two characters is so moving and beautiful to read. The emotions from the characters were felt deeply.
Jannis is so lonely it hurts, which is so relatable. Dayyan is such a gorgeous soul, which is a bright light for Jannis to hold onto.
Mimi is fast becoming a favourite author of mine, with their storytelling and character development.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in the series shifts focus to Jannis and Dayyan, and it is a worthy continuation that earns its emotional weight.
Jannis is a beautifully written character. Living with selective mutism and carrying the particular grief of losing the one person outside his family he believed could love him, he moves through the world feeling profoundly unseen. When Dayyan arrives and the two cross paths, the connection is immediate and feels genuinely organic rather than convenient. Jannis finding comfort so naturally in Dayyan's presence is one of my favorite parts of the book.
I love how Dayyan shows up for Jannis. He does not rush him, does not project onto him, and does not treat grief as something to be fixed. He simply listens and learns, and that patience becomes its own kind of love story. The book handles heavy subject matter with care.
Where it stumbles slightly is in the pacing — a couple of transitions feel more abrupt than the story deserves. There are a few things that pulled me out of the story, yet in the end, it is a good book.
Jannis is a beautifully written character. Living with selective mutism and carrying the particular grief of losing the one person outside his family he believed could love him, he moves through the world feeling profoundly unseen. When Dayyan arrives and the two cross paths, the connection is immediate and feels genuinely organic rather than convenient. Jannis finding comfort so naturally in Dayyan's presence is one of my favorite parts of the book.
I love how Dayyan shows up for Jannis. He does not rush him, does not project onto him, and does not treat grief as something to be fixed. He simply listens and learns, and that patience becomes its own kind of love story. The book handles heavy subject matter with care.
Where it stumbles slightly is in the pacing — a couple of transitions feel more abrupt than the story deserves. There are a few things that pulled me out of the story, yet in the end, it is a good book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mimi Rhine has written another heartwarming but heart breaking book in this second book in the 'Delfosse Brothers' series.
This story follows Jannis and Dayyan. Jannis was left heart broken when his secret boyfriend died unexpectedly. He’s carried the grief around for years. Jannis has selective mutism because of past trauma and only speaks to his adoptive family until Dayyan.
Dayyan just moved into town and has no idea Jannis doesn't usually speak to people. Slowly, they become friends and start to develop feelings. Though, Jannis struggles with the guilt of moving on like he’s betraying Danny's memory. He has to work through his grief and watching him do so takes your breath away. I was so glad he was able to find love and friendship as it was much deserved.
This is an emotional story. The tenderness and love between these two characters is so beautiful. The emotions could be felt through the pages. It's a hard fought battle for love, peace, and growth. It’s such a heart-wrenching beautiful story. I would recommend this. 4/5
This story follows Jannis and Dayyan. Jannis was left heart broken when his secret boyfriend died unexpectedly. He’s carried the grief around for years. Jannis has selective mutism because of past trauma and only speaks to his adoptive family until Dayyan.
Dayyan just moved into town and has no idea Jannis doesn't usually speak to people. Slowly, they become friends and start to develop feelings. Though, Jannis struggles with the guilt of moving on like he’s betraying Danny's memory. He has to work through his grief and watching him do so takes your breath away. I was so glad he was able to find love and friendship as it was much deserved.
This is an emotional story. The tenderness and love between these two characters is so beautiful. The emotions could be felt through the pages. It's a hard fought battle for love, peace, and growth. It’s such a heart-wrenching beautiful story. I would recommend this. 4/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magnolia
Delfosse Brothers Book 2
Mimi Rhine
Dayyan & Jannis
Friends to lovers
Selective mutism
Love after Loss
Found Family
Grief
Wow, what a heart-wrenching beautiful story.
My heart hurts for Jannis and what he has been through.
Dayyan was the sunshine Jannis needed in his life. A safe place and a strong pillar to lean on. These two were absolutely so sweet and perfect for each other.
This was a little hurty and angsty, given what Jannis has been through. He has to work through his grief in order to let Dayyan in.
I am so glad he was able to find love and friendship in Dayyan.
Certain scenes in this book made me teary-eyed, those epilogues, oh my heart.
This has been a beautiful series so far.
Incredibly emotional with such a wonderful hea.
So thankful for this arc
Delfosse Brothers Book 2
Mimi Rhine
Dayyan & Jannis
Friends to lovers
Selective mutism
Love after Loss
Found Family
Grief
Wow, what a heart-wrenching beautiful story.
My heart hurts for Jannis and what he has been through.
Dayyan was the sunshine Jannis needed in his life. A safe place and a strong pillar to lean on. These two were absolutely so sweet and perfect for each other.
This was a little hurty and angsty, given what Jannis has been through. He has to work through his grief in order to let Dayyan in.
I am so glad he was able to find love and friendship in Dayyan.
Certain scenes in this book made me teary-eyed, those epilogues, oh my heart.
This has been a beautiful series so far.
Incredibly emotional with such a wonderful hea.
So thankful for this arc
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
This book is a heartfelt, emotional romance that explores love, grief and healing. The story follows Jannis, a selectively mute young man still grieving the loss of his first love, and Dayyan, a new student who slowly draws Jannis out of his shell.
Their connection is tender and genuine, and the emotional depth of Jannis’s journey, coping with trauma, loss and the fear of moving on is beautifully portrayed. I also enjoyed reading about the diversity in the book.
The emotional core of the story is strong. I do feel there were a couple of abrupt jumps in the book and the second car crash felt a bit unlikely, I mean, what are the odds of having that happen to the same group of people
Still, the characters are compelling and the exploration of grief and new beginnings is moving. A touching read.
This book is a heartfelt, emotional romance that explores love, grief and healing. The story follows Jannis, a selectively mute young man still grieving the loss of his first love, and Dayyan, a new student who slowly draws Jannis out of his shell.
Their connection is tender and genuine, and the emotional depth of Jannis’s journey, coping with trauma, loss and the fear of moving on is beautifully portrayed. I also enjoyed reading about the diversity in the book.
The emotional core of the story is strong. I do feel there were a couple of abrupt jumps in the book and the second car crash felt a bit unlikely, I mean, what are the odds of having that happen to the same group of people
Still, the characters are compelling and the exploration of grief and new beginnings is moving. A touching read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. This series is really pulling at my heartstrings… in the most beautiful way possible 😭🩷
What a beautiful story!!! Oh my God 🥹💕
I looooved getting to know Jannis. I was already curious about him and his story after reading the first book, so this was perfect. Both him and Dayyan were written beautifully. Jannis’ past broke my heart into a million pieces, but his story was also so touching… There’s so much emotional growth in this book and so many wonderful lessons to learn.
There’s one moment in particular when Jannis is talking to someone, and suddenly things click. He finally understands something. That moment of realization had me ugly crying… it was incredibly touching and heartfelt. Ugh, just beautiful.
Everything about this series so far has been perfection.
What a beautiful story!!! Oh my God 🥹💕
I looooved getting to know Jannis. I was already curious about him and his story after reading the first book, so this was perfect. Both him and Dayyan were written beautifully. Jannis’ past broke my heart into a million pieces, but his story was also so touching… There’s so much emotional growth in this book and so many wonderful lessons to learn.
There’s one moment in particular when Jannis is talking to someone, and suddenly things click. He finally understands something. That moment of realization had me ugly crying… it was incredibly touching and heartfelt. Ugh, just beautiful.
Everything about this series so far has been perfection.
May 27, 2026
"Magnolia" is the second book in this contemporary romance series but you can read it as a standalone. Both Dayyan and Jannis were wonderful and loveable characters, I was rooting for them. When they first meet Jannis is still grieving his first love. His struggles felt very real and very relatable. My heart ached for him.
The book is very emotional and it broke my heart and made me cry. The scenes with the Magnolia tree were my favorite, heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. It's a wonderful story just make sure you read the trigger warnings before starting because like I said it's absolutely heartbreaking what those two went through.
I can't wait to read Luca's book. I need to find out what happened.
The book is very emotional and it broke my heart and made me cry. The scenes with the Magnolia tree were my favorite, heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. It's a wonderful story just make sure you read the trigger warnings before starting because like I said it's absolutely heartbreaking what those two went through.
I can't wait to read Luca's book. I need to find out what happened.
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
Excuse me?! How beautiful can a story possibly be? 😭 I am officially obsessed with Jannis and Dayyan.
This story had me in a chokehold from page one and never let me go again. The tenderness that Dayyan and Jannis have for each other is so deeply touching. Honestly, the entire story is emotional in the best possible way — especially the way it explores what it does to a person when they slowly lose someone they love.
This story, or honestly the whole series, is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read.
This story had me in a chokehold from page one and never let me go again. The tenderness that Dayyan and Jannis have for each other is so deeply touching. Honestly, the entire story is emotional in the best possible way — especially the way it explores what it does to a person when they slowly lose someone they love.
This story, or honestly the whole series, is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read.
May 25, 2026
I loved the first Delfosse-Brothers book and but was somehow not prepared for just how much this book would break me apart and put me back together. Jannis is such an interesting character and his grief is so, so real. I enjoyed seeing him able to be himself around Dayyan and loved watching their relationship evolve. It's not often that I'm surprised by the ending of a book but this one definitely went somewhere I wasn't expecting and let me just say to have your tissues ready. I cannot wait for the next book!
I received an advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2026
3.75⭐
This book would have been 4.5 stars if not for that one scene in the ending. I have no idea why was that required. Everything was going good. The hurt/comfort aspect was already taken in account. Why was the need for that. I don't read romance for sadness or grief and I don't know how I missed that in the tw coz it came out of no where and it changed a wonderful book to an ok book and I hated that. I read this book in less than 12 hrs it was easy to read, it was quick, it was going so well. Jannis and Dayyan were cute, sweet and so so perfect. And the cover of this book is gorgeous.
This book would have been 4.5 stars if not for that one scene in the ending. I have no idea why was that required. Everything was going good. The hurt/comfort aspect was already taken in account. Why was the need for that. I don't read romance for sadness or grief and I don't know how I missed that in the tw coz it came out of no where and it changed a wonderful book to an ok book and I hated that. I read this book in less than 12 hrs it was easy to read, it was quick, it was going so well. Jannis and Dayyan were cute, sweet and so so perfect. And the cover of this book is gorgeous.
May 27, 2026
Solid 4 ⭐️
This is a deeply emotional read that will pull at each and every one of your heart strings.
This is Mimi’s second book in the Delfosse Brothers series and it follows Jannis and Dayyan. Jannis has selective mutism due to trauma and loss in his past. He has been stuck in a dark place after he lost Danny a few years ago. Dayyan is new to the area and through simple human connection breaks past Jannis’ walls.
This is such a sweet and kind love that was made from helping one another past things that have weighed them down in their past. Love after loss is a hard thing to deal with and accept and Mimi does a beautiful job and showing us that love is ever expanding and one love does not replace another love. It builds on it as a foundation of safety and support from those who have given it to us.
Make sure to have the tissues handy with this one because they will be needed. 🖤
June 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It was a bit of a rollercoaster. I loved it, though at one point it felt like everything was happening in this book! Now I want to read the next one in the series, but I’m scared because I already know it’s going to hurt. I’m also curious about Paul and Finn from Ivy. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Author
Edit - This second book in the Delfosse Brother’s series is just as good as the first one. Completely different but just as good!! I love this whole family so much and it’s hard to find the right words to describe how much they mean to me.
Mimi’s books always hits hard, there are so many subtle things about her stories that makes me think about them for a long time after I have finished, and Magnolia is no different. I don’t want to spoil anything you just need to read this!!
*******
*busy crying my eyes out*
I need to find the strength to write down the right words.
I love them so much. The whole family ❤️ but the grief hit so hard in this 😭.
Mimi’s books always hits hard, there are so many subtle things about her stories that makes me think about them for a long time after I have finished, and Magnolia is no different. I don’t want to spoil anything you just need to read this!!
*******
*busy crying my eyes out*
I need to find the strength to write down the right words.
I love them so much. The whole family ❤️ but the grief hit so hard in this 😭.
May 27, 2026
A FANTASTIC STORY WITH CHARACTERS THAT HAVE DEPTH AND EMOTION!
Jannis and Dayyan are so sweetly perfect together! I loved their story a lot! This is an ARC review.
Jannis and Dayyan are so sweetly perfect together! I loved their story a lot! This is an ARC review.
June 2, 2026
Wow what a wonderful story that is beautiful written. This is a sweet read that I read in one sitting. This is a very emotional story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh MIMI this book was so good. I cried for these boys. Dayyan & Jannis are absolutely the sweetest.
Man how my heart hurt for Jannis. He went so many years in pain. Dayyan was exactly what Jannis needed in his life. This book was just so touching. I recommend this book.
Man how my heart hurt for Jannis. He went so many years in pain. Dayyan was exactly what Jannis needed in his life. This book was just so touching. I recommend this book.
Review of advance copy
I was so excited for Jannis' book! I wanted to know who would capture his voice and his heart. It's a hard fought battle for love and peace but the end result is beautiful in it's strength. I can't wait for Luca's story next!!
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