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The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories
Jacey met the man of her dreams a year ago—and hasn’t seen him since. Finally relocating him as the pastor at her best friend’s wedding was the very last thing she expected.
A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.
Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.
On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?
With the typical wit and honesty Celeste Fletcher McHale is becoming known for, it’s time for Jacey to take a fresh look at her life. Could this string of unexpected events have been setting her up for something far better than what she had planned for herself?
A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.
Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.
On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?
With the typical wit and honesty Celeste Fletcher McHale is becoming known for, it’s time for Jacey to take a fresh look at her life. Could this string of unexpected events have been setting her up for something far better than what she had planned for herself?
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2017
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August 7, 2018
On a roof top in the middle of a flood, Jacey met Colin the man of her dreams. Despite feeling an intense connection, she hasn’t seen him since. That is until the day she is maid of honour for her friend Willow and she is shocked to find Colin is the officiating pastor. Seeing Colin again starts to bring back memories of the mother and three children who were also trapped in that flood along with Jacey. When more of her memory returns, it brings pain and also a life changing choice. Colin has his own issues especially when it comes to his father who has his own plans for Colin that run contrary to Colin’s ideas. Even though he preaches forgiveness to others, when it comes to his father, Colin’s attitudes are firmly fixed. How will Jacey and Colin deal with their pasts and what of the future?
This is a charming read with moments of humour. I particularly liked Jacey’s smart mouthed friend Georgia, even though at times she make rash or unwise decisions. I loved the dialogue and humour as well as the moments of sadness that occur in this book. My emotions were engaged throughout even when the characters made stupid decisions and I felt like bopping them. While I was reading I was thoroughly involved with the characters and their stories. Only after I finished reading and started to think about writing a review, did I start to query some things that were glossed over too easily or neglected. But maybe that’s just me. All in all, even though it covered some heavy topics, it was a light and mostly heart-warming read that kept my interest throughout.
This is a charming read with moments of humour. I particularly liked Jacey’s smart mouthed friend Georgia, even though at times she make rash or unwise decisions. I loved the dialogue and humour as well as the moments of sadness that occur in this book. My emotions were engaged throughout even when the characters made stupid decisions and I felt like bopping them. While I was reading I was thoroughly involved with the characters and their stories. Only after I finished reading and started to think about writing a review, did I start to query some things that were glossed over too easily or neglected. But maybe that’s just me. All in all, even though it covered some heavy topics, it was a light and mostly heart-warming read that kept my interest throughout.
May 21, 2018
More like a 3.5! There were several things I enjoyed about McHale's second novel - the depiction of friendship between Jacey and Georgia - full of humor and realism - and the excellent Southern feel of the story, especially when it comes to how the characters speak and the sayings they use. Jacey's traumatic experience also rings true, and I love how tough subjects are tackled within the story. If anything, I wanted more. There were times that I felt cheated out of a really good scene - the plot just skipped things that I was itching to read.It's hard to explain in detail without spoilers, but there were a few things that happened to Jacey, and the reader doesn't get to experience them, they are just already done when we get to her next scene. I was hoping for the experience, so when I didn't get it, I was a bit disappointed. I also don't care for mis-communication as a main hurtle in the romantic relationship, but that's just a personal preference of mine. It does provide the catalyst for both Colin and Jacey to get their acts together as individuals, and that I did appreciate.
While the story has romance thread, the focus is primarily on friendship and the restoration of family - both blood relatives and those brought together by tragic circumstances. The healing shown throughout both of these aspects is quite moving and definitely my favorite part of the story.
I do recommend this story; it came very close to being 4 stars for me, and I'm sure the things that bothered me won't bother many readers. What is there is great, but in the end, I just wanted more of it. Pick this up if you're in the mood for a quick, Southern-infused story about friendship and family.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel, which I chose to review. This is my honest opinion.
While the story has romance thread, the focus is primarily on friendship and the restoration of family - both blood relatives and those brought together by tragic circumstances. The healing shown throughout both of these aspects is quite moving and definitely my favorite part of the story.
I do recommend this story; it came very close to being 4 stars for me, and I'm sure the things that bothered me won't bother many readers. What is there is great, but in the end, I just wanted more of it. Pick this up if you're in the mood for a quick, Southern-infused story about friendship and family.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel, which I chose to review. This is my honest opinion.
June 23, 2020
McHale's characters are authentic and relatable. Even if readers haven't been through a traumatic situation like Jacey and Colin, the emotions of loss and trying to move forward will resonate with everyone. Things come together a bit too perfectly in the end, but it is endearing and heartwarming, so it's easy to look past its shortcomings. The writing is so beautifully done, the prose so delicately chosen, that the book is a treat to savor.
After driving through high water, Jacey is caught in a flood and shares a few terrifying days on top of a house with Colin, a mother and her children. Colin and Jacey share a deep connection. Just as some of them are rescued, tragedy strikes yet again and they all become separated. A year later, Jacey is an attendant in her friend's wedding and is shocked to see that Colin is the pastor. As the two reconnect, it's clear that Jacey has some holes in her memory. As these memories start to return, they set Jacey — and ultimately Colin — on a quest to find the true nature of themselves and those around them.
July 26, 2017
I read the author's debut novel, The Secret to Hummingbird Cake, last month because it was an INSPY nominee. I found a great deal of promise in the author's style, but overall, found the novel to be just ok.
I was pleasantly rewarded with Celeste Fletcher McHale's sophomore novel. It was a joy to read. I loved the friendship of Jacey and Georgia. I adored the dry humor used throughout the novel. The story line was engaging.
There were two sentences in the novel that I felt didn't add to the novel and were crass type comments when the novel overall is a class act.
I definitely look forward to future novels by the author. My gratitude to Fiction Guild and publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel.
I was pleasantly rewarded with Celeste Fletcher McHale's sophomore novel. It was a joy to read. I loved the friendship of Jacey and Georgia. I adored the dry humor used throughout the novel. The story line was engaging.
There were two sentences in the novel that I felt didn't add to the novel and were crass type comments when the novel overall is a class act.
I definitely look forward to future novels by the author. My gratitude to Fiction Guild and publisher Thomas Nelson for a complimentary copy of the novel.
July 7, 2017
Celeste McHale has done it again! This book is the perfect beach read. I found myself laughing out loud at the banter between the best girlfriends and tearing up at the more emotional scenes that give this novel its depth. A great read, all around that I will recommend to friends.
September 30, 2025
EXCERPT: “Friends, family,” the minister began, “we are gathered today to join Willow Mist Washington and Colby James Frost.”
Jacey felt strange all of a sudden, like she was in a vacuum. She was never nervous in front of a crowd. What was wrong with her? She picked at her bouquet and moved her shoulders around. The post-trauma anxiety that had plagued her for months was threatening to rear its ugly head in the form of another not-so-pretty panic attack. Not today, please, not today, she thought.
“Stop fidgeting,” Georgia whispered.
“I can’t help it,” Jacey whispered back. “Something’s freaking me out.”
Jacey decided it was best to concentrate on the minister’s words and stop feeding her fear. After all, if she didn’t give it any energy, the anxiety couldn’t . . . Wait . . . wait . . . what?
She jerked her head up and stared at the minister. “Colin?” she whispered, much, much louder than she’d intended.
The minister stopped and looked at her, his face registering an equal amount of shock. “Jacey?” he whispered back.
But Jacey had gone deaf. At least temporarily . . . the roar in her ears a buffer for the sound of her own voice. “Are you a . . . preacher?” Oh my, had she thought that out loud?
Colin stared back at her like a deer caught in headlights. Finally, composure took over and he said, “Yes, yes, I am. Uh, sorry about that interruption, folks . . . Let’s get started again, shall we?”
ABOUT 'THE SWEET SMELL OF MAGNOLIAS AND MEMORIES': Jacey met the man of her dreams a year ago—and hasn’t seen him since. Finally relocating him as the pastor at her best friend’s wedding was the very last thing she expected.
A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.
Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.
On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?
MY THOUGHTS: Every time I see or smell a Magnolia flower, I am going to think of this book.
Let me count the ways I loved this sweet book:
1. I loved the banter between the female friends who watch out for and look after one another. REAL friends. Okay, maybe sometimes they are a bit too protective and interfering, but . . . it works!
2. I loved the humor and the pathos - one minute I'd be laughing at something one of the characters has said or done, and the next I'd be sucker-punched by a heart wrenching moment.
3. I loved the sense of family - yes, we all wish at times that our families would just go away and leave us alone. But really? We mostly wouldn't be without them. One of the characters has some hard lessons to learn about their family. And I loved the found family aspect of this read. I loved that Jacey has the inner strength, even when her world is imploding, to continue with her plans.
4. I even loved the romance here - and it's not confined to Jacey and Colin. The author celebrates long term love and commitment.
5. The are a lot of life lessons within this novel, all wrapped up in a heartwarming and heart wrenching narrative. I defy you to read this and NOT shed a tear! A great reminder that we all need to take stock of ourselves every now and then.
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is not the first book I have read by Celeste Fletcher McHale, and it won't be the last. I am in her thrall.
I listened to the audiobook of The Sweet smell of Magnolias and Memories written by Celeste Fletcher McHale and superbly narrated by Nan Kelley, first published in 2017.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheSweetSmellofMagnoliasandMemories #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: CELESTE FLETCHER MCHALE lives on her family farm in Central Louisiana where she enjoys raising a variety of animals. Her hobbies include writing, football, baseball, and spending much time with her grandchildren. (Source: freshfiction.com)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio via NetGalley for providing an audiobook of The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories written by Celeste Fletcher McHale and narrated by Nan Kelley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Jacey felt strange all of a sudden, like she was in a vacuum. She was never nervous in front of a crowd. What was wrong with her? She picked at her bouquet and moved her shoulders around. The post-trauma anxiety that had plagued her for months was threatening to rear its ugly head in the form of another not-so-pretty panic attack. Not today, please, not today, she thought.
“Stop fidgeting,” Georgia whispered.
“I can’t help it,” Jacey whispered back. “Something’s freaking me out.”
Jacey decided it was best to concentrate on the minister’s words and stop feeding her fear. After all, if she didn’t give it any energy, the anxiety couldn’t . . . Wait . . . wait . . . what?
She jerked her head up and stared at the minister. “Colin?” she whispered, much, much louder than she’d intended.
The minister stopped and looked at her, his face registering an equal amount of shock. “Jacey?” he whispered back.
But Jacey had gone deaf. At least temporarily . . . the roar in her ears a buffer for the sound of her own voice. “Are you a . . . preacher?” Oh my, had she thought that out loud?
Colin stared back at her like a deer caught in headlights. Finally, composure took over and he said, “Yes, yes, I am. Uh, sorry about that interruption, folks . . . Let’s get started again, shall we?”
ABOUT 'THE SWEET SMELL OF MAGNOLIAS AND MEMORIES': Jacey met the man of her dreams a year ago—and hasn’t seen him since. Finally relocating him as the pastor at her best friend’s wedding was the very last thing she expected.
A year ago, Jacey was trapped on a rooftop during a flood with perfect strangers, including a family and a man named Colin. After two days there together, she had no doubt that Colin was the man of her dreams. When they were finally rescued he tucked his phone number into her pocket. But an accident with the rescue boat left her hospitalized with amnesia and PTSD . . . and his number nowhere to be found.
Now, Jacey has still only recovered bits and pieces of her memory from that time. She clearly remembers Colin—but not his last name or any other details that would help her locate him. She’s trying to immerse herself in the joy of her best friend’s wedding . . . when she looks up at the end of the aisle only to discover Colin there in the minister’s role. Shock is an understatement.
On one hand, she’s elated to see him again. And then reality sets in. She never intended to get married or have kids. And being a minister’s wife was definitely never on her list. Was Colin not the man she thought he was? Or has the amnesia changed her more than she realized?
MY THOUGHTS: Every time I see or smell a Magnolia flower, I am going to think of this book.
Let me count the ways I loved this sweet book:
1. I loved the banter between the female friends who watch out for and look after one another. REAL friends. Okay, maybe sometimes they are a bit too protective and interfering, but . . . it works!
2. I loved the humor and the pathos - one minute I'd be laughing at something one of the characters has said or done, and the next I'd be sucker-punched by a heart wrenching moment.
3. I loved the sense of family - yes, we all wish at times that our families would just go away and leave us alone. But really? We mostly wouldn't be without them. One of the characters has some hard lessons to learn about their family. And I loved the found family aspect of this read. I loved that Jacey has the inner strength, even when her world is imploding, to continue with her plans.
4. I even loved the romance here - and it's not confined to Jacey and Colin. The author celebrates long term love and commitment.
5. The are a lot of life lessons within this novel, all wrapped up in a heartwarming and heart wrenching narrative. I defy you to read this and NOT shed a tear! A great reminder that we all need to take stock of ourselves every now and then.
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is not the first book I have read by Celeste Fletcher McHale, and it won't be the last. I am in her thrall.
I listened to the audiobook of The Sweet smell of Magnolias and Memories written by Celeste Fletcher McHale and superbly narrated by Nan Kelley, first published in 2017.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheSweetSmellofMagnoliasandMemories #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: CELESTE FLETCHER MCHALE lives on her family farm in Central Louisiana where she enjoys raising a variety of animals. Her hobbies include writing, football, baseball, and spending much time with her grandchildren. (Source: freshfiction.com)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio via NetGalley for providing an audiobook of The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories written by Celeste Fletcher McHale and narrated by Nan Kelley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
June 4, 2017
Sometimes I enjoy reading peculiar-sounding books, because quite often they end up being charming, whimsical, and completely lovable. So with little hesitation, I decided to try a completely new-to-me author named Celeste Fletcher McHale, whose book is entitled "The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories". Published by Thomas Nelson, this book sounded peculiar because, well, read for yourself:
"Jacey and Colin shared the three most intense days of their lives together, waiting for help as Mississippi floodwaters surrounded them. Jacey knew Colin was the love of her life—until her rescue boat went under water, along with Colin's last name and pieces of Jacey's memory. The last thing she remembered was being submerged in water. Again. As Jacey walks down the aisle as the maid of honor in her friend's wedding a year later, the last person she expects to see is Colin."
See what I mean? It sounded like a unique and enjoyable story, and it was both of those things —at times. But unfortunately it was also quite inappropriate, containing very questionable values and even some minor bad-language issues. Unmarried couples consider spending the night together, personal female anatomy is discussed with embarrassing detail, swear words are alluded to, and the humor is often a bit too cheap for my preference.
In the end, this story had every opportunity to be a good, memorable, inspirational one, but too many inappropriate portions ruined it for me. I read Christian fiction to be entertained, for sure, but also to live in accordance with the Philippians 4:8 directive about our thoughts... You know, true, noble, pure, admirable, praiseworthy, etc. "The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories" definitely did not live up to my standards for Christian fiction, which is most disappointing because it had such potential.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
"Jacey and Colin shared the three most intense days of their lives together, waiting for help as Mississippi floodwaters surrounded them. Jacey knew Colin was the love of her life—until her rescue boat went under water, along with Colin's last name and pieces of Jacey's memory. The last thing she remembered was being submerged in water. Again. As Jacey walks down the aisle as the maid of honor in her friend's wedding a year later, the last person she expects to see is Colin."
See what I mean? It sounded like a unique and enjoyable story, and it was both of those things —at times. But unfortunately it was also quite inappropriate, containing very questionable values and even some minor bad-language issues. Unmarried couples consider spending the night together, personal female anatomy is discussed with embarrassing detail, swear words are alluded to, and the humor is often a bit too cheap for my preference.
In the end, this story had every opportunity to be a good, memorable, inspirational one, but too many inappropriate portions ruined it for me. I read Christian fiction to be entertained, for sure, but also to live in accordance with the Philippians 4:8 directive about our thoughts... You know, true, noble, pure, admirable, praiseworthy, etc. "The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories" definitely did not live up to my standards for Christian fiction, which is most disappointing because it had such potential.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
June 4, 2017
I didn't really like this book. The writing itself was fine, the characters were likeable - even funny at times. I liked the secondary character of Georgia more than the main characters. She was hilarious. But the plot was really weak. I can't stand plot lines that center around misunderstandings - and that's largely what this one was. I was also disappointed in the romance element. We didn't get to experience the characters falling in love. We were told that they fell in love on the roof during the flood, but that's all in the past by the time the book begins. And then they're apart for the majority of the book, pining for each other. They actually have very little interaction throughout the story.
Colin and Jacey each had their own mini-plot during the course of the story, but their resolutions were extremely predictable and largely without turmoil.
I also found the Christian elements kind of odd. I'm not sure if this book is billed as inspirational fiction, but there was very little mention of God. The only prayer offered is in jest. At the beginning, when Jacey finds out Colin is a minister, she freaks out about having to act religious and give up her short skirts and margaritas. Nothing ever comes of it, but there's also no discussion of grace or true faith or how her attitude about ministers is legalistic and untrue.
Overall, it was kind of a strange and disappointing read.
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.*
Colin and Jacey each had their own mini-plot during the course of the story, but their resolutions were extremely predictable and largely without turmoil.
I also found the Christian elements kind of odd. I'm not sure if this book is billed as inspirational fiction, but there was very little mention of God. The only prayer offered is in jest. At the beginning, when Jacey finds out Colin is a minister, she freaks out about having to act religious and give up her short skirts and margaritas. Nothing ever comes of it, but there's also no discussion of grace or true faith or how her attitude about ministers is legalistic and untrue.
Overall, it was kind of a strange and disappointing read.
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.*
February 28, 2017
This is a fantastic book by Celeste Fletcher McHale about love and family and friendship. It's full of fantastic characters who will make you laugh and very possibly cause you to shed a few tears. I loved it and thank netgalley for a copy to read and review.
Jacey is a writer who was working on a story and made a bad decision to drive through a flooded area in the road during a downpour. Her car ended up in the river and she barely survived by spending three days on a roof with a mother and her four children and Colin. She and Colin formed an immediate bond and agreed to get in touch with each other after being rescued but after a year, they still haven't found each other. Jacey is struggling with PTSD as a result of almost dying in the flood and doesn't remember some important parts of the rescue. When she does find Colin again, it causes her to remember the rest of what happened and she is devastated by her memories. Colin is fighting his own demons with his problems with his parents. Can they both overcome the problems in their lives and end up together? This is quite a story with lots of ups and downs and several big surprises.
I loved the characters of Jacey and Colin and the fact that they were very real in their struggles to live their lives. One of my favorite characters in this book was Jacey's best friend, Georgia, who always had a snarky remark for every situation and tried to appear very happy to the world even though she too was hiding a lot of pain. Read this book - you are going to love it.
Jacey is a writer who was working on a story and made a bad decision to drive through a flooded area in the road during a downpour. Her car ended up in the river and she barely survived by spending three days on a roof with a mother and her four children and Colin. She and Colin formed an immediate bond and agreed to get in touch with each other after being rescued but after a year, they still haven't found each other. Jacey is struggling with PTSD as a result of almost dying in the flood and doesn't remember some important parts of the rescue. When she does find Colin again, it causes her to remember the rest of what happened and she is devastated by her memories. Colin is fighting his own demons with his problems with his parents. Can they both overcome the problems in their lives and end up together? This is quite a story with lots of ups and downs and several big surprises.
I loved the characters of Jacey and Colin and the fact that they were very real in their struggles to live their lives. One of my favorite characters in this book was Jacey's best friend, Georgia, who always had a snarky remark for every situation and tried to appear very happy to the world even though she too was hiding a lot of pain. Read this book - you are going to love it.
June 16, 2017
"She was holding on to a magnolia limb, full of blooms, sweet and fragrant, while the water swept her away."
Jacey Lang relives fragments of a horrifying memory; being swept down a river of raging flood waters; near drowning over and over and over again. A Hurricane Katrina survivor, she spent three terrifying days and nights on the top of a roof, with a young mother, four children, and a stranger named Colin; but after a rescue attempt turns tragic, Jacey and Colin are separated, spending a year searching for one another, to no avail. Remarkably, Jacey walks down the aisle at a best friend's wedding and recognizes the minister; it's none other than Colin Jennings.
Colin can scarcely believe his good fortune. The last person he expected to see again was Jacey Lang, looking as beautiful as he remembered her to be. Desperate to reignite their unique connection, Colin instinctively recognizes that Jacey carries a wounded spirit. Deciding to tidy up some family matters, he gives her some space, never intending to create an even bigger divide. What will it take for Colin and Jacey to inhale the sweet fragrance of magnolias once again?
Portions of this story were very good, others invaded by an almost "Pollyanna" approach to traumatic circumstances. Undeniably, McHale has written about two characters who dig deep to survive, while learning the value of honesty and forgiveness along the way.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Jacey Lang relives fragments of a horrifying memory; being swept down a river of raging flood waters; near drowning over and over and over again. A Hurricane Katrina survivor, she spent three terrifying days and nights on the top of a roof, with a young mother, four children, and a stranger named Colin; but after a rescue attempt turns tragic, Jacey and Colin are separated, spending a year searching for one another, to no avail. Remarkably, Jacey walks down the aisle at a best friend's wedding and recognizes the minister; it's none other than Colin Jennings.
Colin can scarcely believe his good fortune. The last person he expected to see again was Jacey Lang, looking as beautiful as he remembered her to be. Desperate to reignite their unique connection, Colin instinctively recognizes that Jacey carries a wounded spirit. Deciding to tidy up some family matters, he gives her some space, never intending to create an even bigger divide. What will it take for Colin and Jacey to inhale the sweet fragrance of magnolias once again?
Portions of this story were very good, others invaded by an almost "Pollyanna" approach to traumatic circumstances. Undeniably, McHale has written about two characters who dig deep to survive, while learning the value of honesty and forgiveness along the way.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
April 1, 2017
Jacey had no idea what was in store for her. But it was something big.
Jacey and Colin has spent three very intense days surviving a Mississippi flood. But they HAD survived. Yet Jacey went down in the water. When she came back up, she couldn't remember the last name of the man who had not only saved her physically, but for whom she was also in love with.
When chance steps in, Jacey is a bridesmaid at her friends wedding. And who should be the minister who preside over the nuptials, none other than Colin.
A mixture of emotions runs amok.
Jacey feels stirrings she's never felt before.
And God has plans that neither of the two would have dreamed up alone.
I absolutely adored this wonderful romantic novel! One minute crying. The next laughing. And the next nodding my head saying to myself, "Yep, I've been there and done that!"
McHale tells a great story, and one you won't want to miss!
I give this book Five Stars.
A big Thumbs Up!
And my Personal Recommendation.
June 7, 2017
Nobody writes friendship as well as Celeste Fletcher McHale. I loved it. She can't crank them out fast enough for me.
August 9, 2017
You can go on for years thinking you had all the answers until you realize you don't understand all the questions.
A sweet romance with conflicting emotions and relationships. The beginnings of a novel are so important and this came with a bitter sweet moment that left you unsure of a couple obviously in love. Colin and Jacey met in the worst of circumstances, on top of a roof in Louisiana in the middle of storm getting to know each other while comforting each other not knowing if they would come out alive. Jacey was rescued by the coast guard along with a little boy and that is all she remembers. She remembers Colin in how he comforted and encouraged her but a year later, does not know how to get in contact with him.
As fate would have it, they meet again under different circumstances. It is in these circumstances that they each face their past. With all relationships, there is misunderstandings and this couple has plenty. The misunderstandings keep them apart but in in this time, they each learn something about their own broken hearts that need healing.
The character and plot development was engaging. Jacey had the support of a good friend that was witty and had her back at all costs. This relationship was fun and gave Jacey more depth in her character. Colin had issues with his father and came to understand that you don't always know what battles others go thru. It is in these battles the war is won when we come along aside and work the differences together in knowing the whole picture.
There is plenty of irony with one and I enjoyed immensely.
A Special Thank You to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A sweet romance with conflicting emotions and relationships. The beginnings of a novel are so important and this came with a bitter sweet moment that left you unsure of a couple obviously in love. Colin and Jacey met in the worst of circumstances, on top of a roof in Louisiana in the middle of storm getting to know each other while comforting each other not knowing if they would come out alive. Jacey was rescued by the coast guard along with a little boy and that is all she remembers. She remembers Colin in how he comforted and encouraged her but a year later, does not know how to get in contact with him.
As fate would have it, they meet again under different circumstances. It is in these circumstances that they each face their past. With all relationships, there is misunderstandings and this couple has plenty. The misunderstandings keep them apart but in in this time, they each learn something about their own broken hearts that need healing.
The character and plot development was engaging. Jacey had the support of a good friend that was witty and had her back at all costs. This relationship was fun and gave Jacey more depth in her character. Colin had issues with his father and came to understand that you don't always know what battles others go thru. It is in these battles the war is won when we come along aside and work the differences together in knowing the whole picture.
There is plenty of irony with one and I enjoyed immensely.
A Special Thank You to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
September 3, 2017
Jacey and Colin are caught in a storm with epic flooding. They spend several days stuck on a roof together, along with a mother of four little boys. As they are rescued, Jacey and Colin become separated. Now Jacey is missing pieces of her memory due to a horrible accident. But she's never stopped remembering Colin and those intense moments they shared while on that roof a year ago. She just doesn't expect to find him standing in for the minister at her friend's wedding.
This was an unusual plot. It had some twists that I wasn't expecting and yet ended a lot like what I expected. As the title implies, this is a sweet, romantic southern story that meanders through like a hot and humid afternoon spend under the trees sipping lemonade. The author did a good job of creating drama and tension, while still supplying romance between the couple. The best friend was hilarious and the other secondary characters were well fleshed out and added depth to the story. I definitely wouldn't classify this as Christian or even Inspirational fiction based on content. I've read "non-Christian" books with more emphasis on God and faith. But it was, for the most part, clean with only a few references or things implied. I prefer a little more depth to my romance and am not a fan of so much angst. But readers who enjoy slow, southern style reads with lots of drama and angst will really enjoy this book. While not my typical genre, I did enjoy reading it and am willing to try another book by this author.
I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers. All thoughts expressed are my own.
This was an unusual plot. It had some twists that I wasn't expecting and yet ended a lot like what I expected. As the title implies, this is a sweet, romantic southern story that meanders through like a hot and humid afternoon spend under the trees sipping lemonade. The author did a good job of creating drama and tension, while still supplying romance between the couple. The best friend was hilarious and the other secondary characters were well fleshed out and added depth to the story. I definitely wouldn't classify this as Christian or even Inspirational fiction based on content. I've read "non-Christian" books with more emphasis on God and faith. But it was, for the most part, clean with only a few references or things implied. I prefer a little more depth to my romance and am not a fan of so much angst. But readers who enjoy slow, southern style reads with lots of drama and angst will really enjoy this book. While not my typical genre, I did enjoy reading it and am willing to try another book by this author.
I received a copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers. All thoughts expressed are my own.
March 2, 2017
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is a lighthearted tale of friendship, misunderstandings, and missed chances.
Jacey Lang spent three terrifying days atop a roof during a terrible storm. She shared that experience with a young family and (possibly) the man of her dreams. But a traumatic accident during their rescue left Jacey with scattered memories and no way to reconnect with Colin. One year later Jacey accidentally finds Colin again - at the end of the isle at her best friend's wedding, as the preacher. Uncertain what the future holds for them, Jacey must deal with her returning memories about the accident and the fate of the young family, while Colin comes to terms with his family's past.
This is the first book I have read by Celeste Fletcher McHale. I thought the synopsis sounded fantastic and I was excited to read this women's contemporary novel. Unfortunately, it wasn't a perfect fit for me. I like my contemporary novels to have a bit more depth. TSSoMaM had all the right ingredients - a traumatic incident, lost memories, lost chance at love, and children who have lost their parents and desperately need a home. Unfortunately, I thought that too much time was spent on ridiculous missed chances, far better suited to a soap opera or clichéd chick flick (in my opinion) and not enough time developing the romance or more serious issues. There were also a number of topics that were raised and then quickly brushed over. Everything felt a little too shallow or convenient and I would have much rather the author dig a little deeper into these issues. One example of this is Jacey's initial response to Colin being a minister. Yet once many closed-minded jokes and statements are made the subject is barely raised again, never mind that Colin's ministry seems to have been completely forgotten (even by Colin) by the end of the book.
There are many vibrant characters in this book, perhaps most notably Jacey's best friend Georgia. The two spend much time teasing, provoking, and protecting each other, and generally carrying on. This book certainly promotes friendship, and the shared humour and support of best friends.
Unfortunately, the romance was another aspect that I didn't like in this book. Jacey and Colin meet, spend three days together, reconnect a year later, meet up a few times and then fall suddenly in love, followed by a number of misunderstandings. Without flashbacks to their time on the roof during the storm, the reader is left with the few times they connect and the many, many times they are sending mixed messages or lying to each other, and that wasn't enough to convince me the feelings they so quickly developed were real.
I liked the sections where Colin reevaluated his life and restored his relationship with his parents. However, Jacey and I didn't get along at all. She seemed to spend a lot of time flying off the handle, making assumptions, and acting like a hypocritical, silly child. I did like the parts of the story about Jacey reconnecting with the young boys she met during the storm, though.
While this book wasn't a good fit for me, there is no reason why another reader won't love this story of friendship, family, and second (and third and fourth) chances at love.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
Jacey Lang spent three terrifying days atop a roof during a terrible storm. She shared that experience with a young family and (possibly) the man of her dreams. But a traumatic accident during their rescue left Jacey with scattered memories and no way to reconnect with Colin. One year later Jacey accidentally finds Colin again - at the end of the isle at her best friend's wedding, as the preacher. Uncertain what the future holds for them, Jacey must deal with her returning memories about the accident and the fate of the young family, while Colin comes to terms with his family's past.
This is the first book I have read by Celeste Fletcher McHale. I thought the synopsis sounded fantastic and I was excited to read this women's contemporary novel. Unfortunately, it wasn't a perfect fit for me. I like my contemporary novels to have a bit more depth. TSSoMaM had all the right ingredients - a traumatic incident, lost memories, lost chance at love, and children who have lost their parents and desperately need a home. Unfortunately, I thought that too much time was spent on ridiculous missed chances, far better suited to a soap opera or clichéd chick flick (in my opinion) and not enough time developing the romance or more serious issues. There were also a number of topics that were raised and then quickly brushed over. Everything felt a little too shallow or convenient and I would have much rather the author dig a little deeper into these issues. One example of this is Jacey's initial response to Colin being a minister. Yet once many closed-minded jokes and statements are made the subject is barely raised again, never mind that Colin's ministry seems to have been completely forgotten (even by Colin) by the end of the book.
There are many vibrant characters in this book, perhaps most notably Jacey's best friend Georgia. The two spend much time teasing, provoking, and protecting each other, and generally carrying on. This book certainly promotes friendship, and the shared humour and support of best friends.
Unfortunately, the romance was another aspect that I didn't like in this book. Jacey and Colin meet, spend three days together, reconnect a year later, meet up a few times and then fall suddenly in love, followed by a number of misunderstandings. Without flashbacks to their time on the roof during the storm, the reader is left with the few times they connect and the many, many times they are sending mixed messages or lying to each other, and that wasn't enough to convince me the feelings they so quickly developed were real.
I liked the sections where Colin reevaluated his life and restored his relationship with his parents. However, Jacey and I didn't get along at all. She seemed to spend a lot of time flying off the handle, making assumptions, and acting like a hypocritical, silly child. I did like the parts of the story about Jacey reconnecting with the young boys she met during the storm, though.
While this book wasn't a good fit for me, there is no reason why another reader won't love this story of friendship, family, and second (and third and fourth) chances at love.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
August 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Zondervan Audio for the ARC
🎧 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW 🎧
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was such a heartfelt and engaging listen, filled with southern charm and a touching storyline about love, loss, and second chances. The characters felt relatable, and I especially enjoyed how the author captured the emotions of grief and hope in a way that felt both real and uplifting.
The narration added warmth to the story, drawing me into the lives of the characters and making their struggles and triumphs even more impactful. While a few parts moved a little slower, overall it was a moving audiobook that balanced romance and emotional depth beautifully. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary women’s fiction with a strong sense of place and heart.
🎧 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW 🎧
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was such a heartfelt and engaging listen, filled with southern charm and a touching storyline about love, loss, and second chances. The characters felt relatable, and I especially enjoyed how the author captured the emotions of grief and hope in a way that felt both real and uplifting.
The narration added warmth to the story, drawing me into the lives of the characters and making their struggles and triumphs even more impactful. While a few parts moved a little slower, overall it was a moving audiobook that balanced romance and emotional depth beautifully. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary women’s fiction with a strong sense of place and heart.
August 20, 2025
Audiobook review.
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories by Celeste Fletcher McHale, narrated by Nan Kelley.
This is a heartwarming romantic novel that follows a likable protagonist on a journey of love and friendship.
The story tackles some traumatic events with sensitivity and is well written, making it a nice listen.
The narrative is easy to follow, and the audiobook is well delivered.
While I found the writing style straightforward and a little simplistic, it suits the romance genre.
Overall, it's a lovely listen for fans of romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook.
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories by Celeste Fletcher McHale, narrated by Nan Kelley.
This is a heartwarming romantic novel that follows a likable protagonist on a journey of love and friendship.
The story tackles some traumatic events with sensitivity and is well written, making it a nice listen.
The narrative is easy to follow, and the audiobook is well delivered.
While I found the writing style straightforward and a little simplistic, it suits the romance genre.
Overall, it's a lovely listen for fans of romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook.
July 16, 2017
I'm not sure what to write about this book. Parts of it I really enjoyed. Adoption is a heartfelt and beloved subject, and I loved that about this book.
The presentation of Colin as a minister, the drinking, and a few other subjects kind of pulled away from the lessons the book could have contained...for me at least.
I'm not fond of the breaking up, getting together, breaking up again routine. It seems a lot of books contain this drama so I'm guessing readers like it and that it's more true to life than my experience.
There is real life in this book...the real hard familial relationships, friend relationships, and the difficulties of life that God helps us through. The faith theme was a bit confusing to me...but it wasn't the main idea in the book.
I have mixed feelings about this read, but I'm sure many will connect with the circumstances and life altering difficulties in this novel.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The presentation of Colin as a minister, the drinking, and a few other subjects kind of pulled away from the lessons the book could have contained...for me at least.
I'm not fond of the breaking up, getting together, breaking up again routine. It seems a lot of books contain this drama so I'm guessing readers like it and that it's more true to life than my experience.
There is real life in this book...the real hard familial relationships, friend relationships, and the difficulties of life that God helps us through. The faith theme was a bit confusing to me...but it wasn't the main idea in the book.
I have mixed feelings about this read, but I'm sure many will connect with the circumstances and life altering difficulties in this novel.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2017
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias was a fantastic contemporary read which transported the reader into the rich vibrant world of Louisiana and particularly the devastating floods of 2016. Jacey finds herself caught literally clinging to a roof top next to a strange man she doesn’t know but over the course of the long flooded hours they develop a strong unbreakable bond - until in the final minutes of rescue - Jacey hits her head and all memory of their ordeal initially disappears along with her handsome stranger.
It was quite the original and compelling opening and one that kept a readers interest piqued. Fast forward to the present - and Jacey is a bridesmaid at her friends wedding, now recovered from her injuries - and who should be the officiating minister at said wedding? Colin - her rooftop confidant and flood companions.
What follows is Jacey and Colin trying to sort through the returning memories and confusion which surrounds Jacey’s memories and rekindling what might have been an amazing start to a relationship.
This is no mere run of the mill romance novel - it’s setting and characters are so vivid and real they live beyond the page and for all the serious setting, there are fantastic touches of humour and literal laugh out loud dialogue.
I would recommend this book to anyone weary of the stock standard romance genre which can become predictable and stale. Unique, compelling and surprisingly fun!!!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via The Fiction Guild, and was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
It was quite the original and compelling opening and one that kept a readers interest piqued. Fast forward to the present - and Jacey is a bridesmaid at her friends wedding, now recovered from her injuries - and who should be the officiating minister at said wedding? Colin - her rooftop confidant and flood companions.
What follows is Jacey and Colin trying to sort through the returning memories and confusion which surrounds Jacey’s memories and rekindling what might have been an amazing start to a relationship.
This is no mere run of the mill romance novel - it’s setting and characters are so vivid and real they live beyond the page and for all the serious setting, there are fantastic touches of humour and literal laugh out loud dialogue.
I would recommend this book to anyone weary of the stock standard romance genre which can become predictable and stale. Unique, compelling and surprisingly fun!!!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via The Fiction Guild, and was not required to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 9, 2017
This book sounded good from the description, and with its added lovely cover, I requested it for review. And at first I thought maybe I'd enjoy it as a light fluffy read, but as I got even just a couple chapters in, I was disturbed by some of its content. There were a lot of innuendos, crudeness, and a great amount of alluding to swear words. To me it felt very "cheap". There was very, very little that would classify this book as "Christian Fiction". Colin was a preacher, but there was really no true "God-like-ness" in this book at all. Even the character, Julie, that was the one to spur him on to pray more said something like "Prayer is just what worked for me- if hanging upside down and chanting works for you, then great!". "Follow your heart" was another very strong theme, which I disagree with (according to the verse in the Bible that says our heart is very decietful, who can know it?).
There were a couple things I found okay (such as Lillian's three children - I liked them fine, and Mrs.Ernestine but they were hadly ever in the book). So overall, I was extremely disappointed. There were a lot of inapropriate parts, plenty of 'make out' scenes, and nothing pointing towards God.
I couldn't recommend this as a Christian or even clean read, unfortunately. As Christ Followers, we are to be set apart, and I do not feel like this book was that at all.
There were a couple things I found okay (such as Lillian's three children - I liked them fine, and Mrs.Ernestine but they were hadly ever in the book). So overall, I was extremely disappointed. There were a lot of inapropriate parts, plenty of 'make out' scenes, and nothing pointing towards God.
I couldn't recommend this as a Christian or even clean read, unfortunately. As Christ Followers, we are to be set apart, and I do not feel like this book was that at all.
January 17, 2018
This book was like a therapy exercise that never needed to go public. Poor writing, poor transitions, stilted dialogue and weak character development.
September 2, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, and yet it frustrated me at the same time. And I do understand that it is probably just my picky nature, and you may not find anything wrong with it at all, but a review is opinions based, so here it goes. I’ll start with what I didn’t love, and then end on a high note.
I did not enjoy the speed of the love connection in this book. While I understand that scary circumstances can have you running on high, I think that when we come back down to earth we need to allow for an adjustment period, truly getting to know one another period, something. I just didn’t see that with these two. It was almost like Jacey and Colin fell in love with who they thought they remembered from the flood, and didn’t give ample opportunity to find out who they really were today. Some may find their story romantic, and that is fine. I just would have liked a longer period of reacquaintanceness (fyi – I know that’s not really a word, but I like it anyways!).
I also did not love the fact that I felt the author never totally address Jacey’s faith. It seemed like in the very beginning she was so bothered by the fact that Colin was a minister, but then she loved him? It was a little confusing, and I would hope that a minister would not enter into a relationship without knowing the heart of the person they love. Again, just me being me here. Some readers may not even notice this fact at all.
Now, let me share with you what I loved!
I loved the storyline. It was so fascinating to me. Two people stranded together during a flood, separated, and then stumble upon one another. Wow. I was hooked right from the get go. I needed to know who these people were, and how they reached their current destination. And not only Jacey and Colin, but the boys that were missing too. The author did a great job of pulling my heart strings more than once (sorry, no spoilers here), but it was necessary to accurately portray a believable story.
Colin. Colin the present minister. Colin the man with the wild past. I loved this. I know it may sounds cliché, but I just love seeing a person who has gone down such a horrible path, reinvent themselves and use it for God’s good. It was such a wonderful reminder that with God, people can change. They can throw away their old self and be born again into a wonderful person. Wonderful, not perfect. Colin not only learned from his mistakes, but held true to his beliefs, even when he dad tried to convince to do otherwise. He was just an all around good character.
And then there’s Georgia. I gotta say, she was my absolute favorite. She was spunky, outgoing, comical, and highly opinionated. But she always made me laugh at how bold she could be at times. She really made the story come to alive for me. Let’s face it, we all think things in our heads at times that we are probably nervous to say out loud. Not Georgia! She has such a great spirit and heart, and she’s not going to back down for anyone. In all honesty, I found myself looking forward to her scenes the most. She reminded me of someone who used to attend my church that I miss very much, and I miss that almost brash quality. So reading about a character similar to that was such a treat!
Overall, I really did enjoy this book and do recommend it. It is definitely going in my “read again” piles, because I’d like to see if I can get even more out of it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I did not enjoy the speed of the love connection in this book. While I understand that scary circumstances can have you running on high, I think that when we come back down to earth we need to allow for an adjustment period, truly getting to know one another period, something. I just didn’t see that with these two. It was almost like Jacey and Colin fell in love with who they thought they remembered from the flood, and didn’t give ample opportunity to find out who they really were today. Some may find their story romantic, and that is fine. I just would have liked a longer period of reacquaintanceness (fyi – I know that’s not really a word, but I like it anyways!).
I also did not love the fact that I felt the author never totally address Jacey’s faith. It seemed like in the very beginning she was so bothered by the fact that Colin was a minister, but then she loved him? It was a little confusing, and I would hope that a minister would not enter into a relationship without knowing the heart of the person they love. Again, just me being me here. Some readers may not even notice this fact at all.
Now, let me share with you what I loved!
I loved the storyline. It was so fascinating to me. Two people stranded together during a flood, separated, and then stumble upon one another. Wow. I was hooked right from the get go. I needed to know who these people were, and how they reached their current destination. And not only Jacey and Colin, but the boys that were missing too. The author did a great job of pulling my heart strings more than once (sorry, no spoilers here), but it was necessary to accurately portray a believable story.
Colin. Colin the present minister. Colin the man with the wild past. I loved this. I know it may sounds cliché, but I just love seeing a person who has gone down such a horrible path, reinvent themselves and use it for God’s good. It was such a wonderful reminder that with God, people can change. They can throw away their old self and be born again into a wonderful person. Wonderful, not perfect. Colin not only learned from his mistakes, but held true to his beliefs, even when he dad tried to convince to do otherwise. He was just an all around good character.
And then there’s Georgia. I gotta say, she was my absolute favorite. She was spunky, outgoing, comical, and highly opinionated. But she always made me laugh at how bold she could be at times. She really made the story come to alive for me. Let’s face it, we all think things in our heads at times that we are probably nervous to say out loud. Not Georgia! She has such a great spirit and heart, and she’s not going to back down for anyone. In all honesty, I found myself looking forward to her scenes the most. She reminded me of someone who used to attend my church that I miss very much, and I miss that almost brash quality. So reading about a character similar to that was such a treat!
Overall, I really did enjoy this book and do recommend it. It is definitely going in my “read again” piles, because I’d like to see if I can get even more out of it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 16, 2017
Having loved the author's debut novel last year, I was prepared. I waited until I was emotionally ready and had stocked up on tissue, poised to become a blubbering mess... It didn't happen, but I still enjoyed the pants off this book.
The prologue is a bit of a red herring, setting the reader up for an emotional and compelling story. Then the first chapter drops you into a scene with a lighter, shallower feel. A bit jarring at first, but it is easy to adapt and just let the story unfold.
Now, it isn't without flaws. Jacey Lang doesn't really come off as a credible magazine writer, but that bit of background isn't intrinsic to most of the story. While I found her somewhat relatable, and the arc of her memory loss/mental block interesting, the repeated desire to punch someone was a bit off-putting. Really, this story is full of some messed up people, including the man she fell for while stranded on a rooftop during a flood. Colin Jennings may have become ordained in the time between Jacey's rescue and finally finding each other again at her roommate Willow's wedding, but he has some serious baggage and a bit of growing up to do. All of which added layers to the story of this couple finding, losing, finding, losing, and finding each other again.
Jacey's sporadic memories of the flood, and the magnolia branch of the title, are interspersed throughout the novel. The lost being found is a recurring theme in this book, as Jacey finally faces up to the losses that her mind has blocked and goes looking for the other survivors from that rooftop. This is a part of the story where coincidences come in to play, leading Colin and Jacey to separately come to terms with parts of their pasts.
One of the things that the author does particularly well is close female friendships. Friendships that seem so real and relatable. While Willow doesn't figure into the story much, the third roommate Georgia does. Georgia is smart and smart-mouthed, supportive, funny, and woe to the man who does her friend wrong.
If you are looking for a touching, sweet romance with enough Southern sass to keep it from being a tear-jerker, then this is a good choice. A quick read that might make you wish it wasn't a stand-alone novel.
This review refers to a finished copy I voluntarily received from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan's Fiction Guild. All opinions expressed are my own. This review, with quotes, was previously published at bookworlder.wordpress.com
The prologue is a bit of a red herring, setting the reader up for an emotional and compelling story. Then the first chapter drops you into a scene with a lighter, shallower feel. A bit jarring at first, but it is easy to adapt and just let the story unfold.
Now, it isn't without flaws. Jacey Lang doesn't really come off as a credible magazine writer, but that bit of background isn't intrinsic to most of the story. While I found her somewhat relatable, and the arc of her memory loss/mental block interesting, the repeated desire to punch someone was a bit off-putting. Really, this story is full of some messed up people, including the man she fell for while stranded on a rooftop during a flood. Colin Jennings may have become ordained in the time between Jacey's rescue and finally finding each other again at her roommate Willow's wedding, but he has some serious baggage and a bit of growing up to do. All of which added layers to the story of this couple finding, losing, finding, losing, and finding each other again.
Jacey's sporadic memories of the flood, and the magnolia branch of the title, are interspersed throughout the novel. The lost being found is a recurring theme in this book, as Jacey finally faces up to the losses that her mind has blocked and goes looking for the other survivors from that rooftop. This is a part of the story where coincidences come in to play, leading Colin and Jacey to separately come to terms with parts of their pasts.
One of the things that the author does particularly well is close female friendships. Friendships that seem so real and relatable. While Willow doesn't figure into the story much, the third roommate Georgia does. Georgia is smart and smart-mouthed, supportive, funny, and woe to the man who does her friend wrong.
If you are looking for a touching, sweet romance with enough Southern sass to keep it from being a tear-jerker, then this is a good choice. A quick read that might make you wish it wasn't a stand-alone novel.
This review refers to a finished copy I voluntarily received from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan's Fiction Guild. All opinions expressed are my own. This review, with quotes, was previously published at bookworlder.wordpress.com
June 24, 2017
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is another keeper for me by Celeste Fletcher McHale. Jacey is shocked to see the man officiating her best friend's wedding to be Colin. She and Colin were trapped on a rooftop with another woman and her children during a horrific flood a year earlier. After being rescued, they were all separated and lost contact. Jacey had believed Colin to be the man of her dreams but just knew she would never see him again. That is, until she discovers him at the wedding!
The story is realistically written. The scenes where it is known that Jacey suffers from PTSD because of the disaster were spot on. I just cannot tell into words how much I love love love this book. I only intended to sit down a few minutes to start it, but did not get back up until I was done. I laughed and I cried so much throughout. Such a beautiful, sweet, inspiring, unique, refreshing and realistic read. I highly recommend this book!.
I do want to caution the Christian Fiction readers. Though the book is marketed as Christian Fiction, it does have some very mild language that some readers may find offensive.
100 stars.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
The story is realistically written. The scenes where it is known that Jacey suffers from PTSD because of the disaster were spot on. I just cannot tell into words how much I love love love this book. I only intended to sit down a few minutes to start it, but did not get back up until I was done. I laughed and I cried so much throughout. Such a beautiful, sweet, inspiring, unique, refreshing and realistic read. I highly recommend this book!.
I do want to caution the Christian Fiction readers. Though the book is marketed as Christian Fiction, it does have some very mild language that some readers may find offensive.
100 stars.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
April 26, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. A man and a woman find something (love?) during three days spent on a roof after a flood. For Jacey and Colin, that was a year ago and they haven't seen each other since despite their promises to get in touch after everything was normal again.
The story of what happened during that year to each of them was emotional, sad and perplexing for at least one of the couple. The other one left in a coma with amnesia, but they remembered they had the other's number. Which unfortunately got lost in the shuffle.
The story continues on placing this couple together and apart and then over again. There are other plots going on also. Such as what happened to the mother and her three boys that were also on the roof.
A great love story between all of the characters who just happened to be on that roof for three days together during the flood with storms, thunder and lightning. A story that I thoroughly enjoyed and would most certainly recommend.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and Net Galley for approving and allowing me to read and review this book.
The story of what happened during that year to each of them was emotional, sad and perplexing for at least one of the couple. The other one left in a coma with amnesia, but they remembered they had the other's number. Which unfortunately got lost in the shuffle.
The story continues on placing this couple together and apart and then over again. There are other plots going on also. Such as what happened to the mother and her three boys that were also on the roof.
A great love story between all of the characters who just happened to be on that roof for three days together during the flood with storms, thunder and lightning. A story that I thoroughly enjoyed and would most certainly recommend.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and Net Galley for approving and allowing me to read and review this book.
June 20, 2017
The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories is an original story. Jacey meets Colin - likes him - has three deeply intense days but then something happens - rains - too much of it and she capsized - she was rescued again but gone was her memory of Colin and pieces of her life. A time later she sees him at a friends wedding and so it goes - I wont ruin the story for you and tell you all about it - but I will tell you this ... it is suppose to be a Christian book and I wouldn't grade this as one - morals and values are a little questionable, some bad language - in scripture is says "let no course language come out of your mouth," - there is tawdry jokes, female anatomy described in detail, and even talk of people who are not married sleeping together. It is a shame because without all that the book would be wonderful - I would have loved and recommended it but because of it I would not recommend it as a Christian book. I received a complimentary copy of this book; all the opinions in this review are my own.
if you would like to see more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
if you would like to see more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com
July 11, 2018
This is a witty, touching, fun book to read. Reviews say it 'will have you in stitches one moment and tug at your heart strings the next' and I found that to be true. Main characters Jacey and Colin had met during a frightening flood, trapped on a rooftop - with a mother and four small children - in the midst of swirling, muddy waters. Popping from the present to the past ... you learn all the facets of these characters ... and find yourself delighted, in time, at the ways in which they re-find each other. I really enjoyed this book ... although I felt Colin a poor minister with a rather compromised faith. Happily, he seemed to head in another life direction toward the end of the book.... You will love how author McHale makes all her characters real to you, including her rich side characters. A great book.
June 21, 2018
True Love?
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2018/06/21/... THANK YOU!
With rising water all around her, Jacey makes it to a rooftop and is helped on by others also caught in the flood. Her roof-mates consist of Colin, a young man close to her age, along with the Jackson family—mom Lilian, and her three children. Over the next few days Jacey builds strong ties with all of them. Colin and she connect so strongly that Jacey truly believes he is the one!
At long last rescue comes, however, Colin’s contact information is somehow lost. After a year of searching without results, Jacey doesn’t think she will see Colin again. But suddenly, the couple is reunited in a very surprising way. Even more shocking is Collin’s occupation. Despite the deep connection the two shared during the flood, things are not as easy now.
At the same time, Jacey is distressed to discover that Lilian and her youngest son died during the rescue. Desperate to find the other two children, Jacey is heart-broken to find the situation they are now in.
Are Jacey and Colin ever going to have a relationship, or was their interest in each other artificially heightened because of the danger they were in? Will Jacey be able to make sure the Jackson children have the “happily ever after” life she would love for them to have? Has Colin been stringing Jacey along while he has another girl on the side?
This tale will take your emotions on a ride, sometimes you will laugh and other times you might cry. This 4-star book is told from a Christian viewpoint and recommend it to lovers of stories set in the south or works of fiction.
Thomas Nelson Publishers has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: http://bookreadingtic.com/2018/06/21/... THANK YOU!
With rising water all around her, Jacey makes it to a rooftop and is helped on by others also caught in the flood. Her roof-mates consist of Colin, a young man close to her age, along with the Jackson family—mom Lilian, and her three children. Over the next few days Jacey builds strong ties with all of them. Colin and she connect so strongly that Jacey truly believes he is the one!
At long last rescue comes, however, Colin’s contact information is somehow lost. After a year of searching without results, Jacey doesn’t think she will see Colin again. But suddenly, the couple is reunited in a very surprising way. Even more shocking is Collin’s occupation. Despite the deep connection the two shared during the flood, things are not as easy now.
At the same time, Jacey is distressed to discover that Lilian and her youngest son died during the rescue. Desperate to find the other two children, Jacey is heart-broken to find the situation they are now in.
Are Jacey and Colin ever going to have a relationship, or was their interest in each other artificially heightened because of the danger they were in? Will Jacey be able to make sure the Jackson children have the “happily ever after” life she would love for them to have? Has Colin been stringing Jacey along while he has another girl on the side?
This tale will take your emotions on a ride, sometimes you will laugh and other times you might cry. This 4-star book is told from a Christian viewpoint and recommend it to lovers of stories set in the south or works of fiction.
Thomas Nelson Publishers has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
September 17, 2025
This is not the type of book I normally read since I am not even remotely religious . That being said , I absolutely loved this book . The friendship between Jacey and Georgia is what every woman wants and needs . The traumatic situations are described is such a manner that you feel as though you are there. I found myself laughing and rooting for Jacey . She is a whirlwind of love and confusion and knee jerk decisions. Read this book so you can see what happens !
Thank you so much NetGalley for this audiobook.
Thank you so much NetGalley for this audiobook.
July 15, 2018
Good story of how a friendship helps ease heartaches, adds joy to celebrations and the enduring give and take (grace) whether life is going well or not so well. Redemption and forgiveness are other key players in the story of love known, love questioned and love fought for. After reading the scent of magnolias will linger as well as the characters Jacey, Colin and Georgia.
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