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The Auction

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“I don’t need to know about your package. I am pretty sure I have you figured out better than you have me defined.”

For Holden Masters, there are some things money can’t buy, but that isn’t the case at the annual Magnolia Grove Cancer Charity Benefit. The only woman he's ever wanted is up for bids in a ‘secret date’ auction. This isn't the first time he’s yearned for Cammie Spencer. Despite family drama and a web of deceit having nearly sealed their fates, Holden refuses to give up without a fight.

After an unexpected turn of events, Cammie Spencer starts to wonder if there is more to life than being high society arm candy and whether her fiancé, Oliver, is the man for her. There's no denying Holden’s always made her hot, but over the years, he's become the most tempting form of forbidden love.

Holden's only obstacle now is proving he’s more than the cocky bad boy she's pegged him for. Can he finally show her that their past doesn't have to define their future?

Will he be able to not only win her date, but her heart, before she marries the wrong man?

Unknown Binding

First published February 3, 2015

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About the author

J.B. McGee

23 books1,284 followers
J.B. McGee is a mother, wife, and the Amazon Top 100 author of the best selling This Series. Amazon Crossing acquired the German rights to her debut novel, Broken. Heartfall, her coming of age novel about a bullied ballerina, is a #1 best seller in the Teen and Young Adult Performing Arts genre. Skipping Stones, a military romance about a young woman strongly influenced by her faith and her family all the while searching for her true love, is a #1 best seller in Women's Christian Fiction.

When J.B.'s not writing, she enjoys reading as well as watching and live-chatting her favorite television shows with her friends. Her favorite shows are Quantico, Blindspot, Grey’s Anatomy, The Bachelor/Bachelorette, Below Deck, The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, and Scandal (mainly because of her love of Scott Foley).

Born and raised in Aiken, South Carolina, she attended Converse College and eventually earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from The University of South Carolina-Aiken in 2006.

In college, she was told by her children’s literature professor she would be the one student from her class to be an author. McGee shook her head and laughed. But in 2012, over six years after that statement was made and after a love of reading had been reignited, she gave writing a shot. J.B. gladly ate crow when she emailed her first book to the above mentioned children’s literature professor thanking her and acknowledging the accuracy of her prophecy.

In 2011, it was discovered that not only do both of her children, but also she and her husband, have mitochondrial disease. Affecting 1 in 2500 people, it has no cure or treatments. Being a writer allows J.B. to care for her family’s unique needs while also providing a platform for raising awareness for this disease.

She is a hopeless romantic who loves to escape into fairy tales—some she reads and some she creates.

J.B. McGee and her family now reside in Buford, Georgia.

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/tfyhf
Web: http://www.jbmcgee.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorjbmcgee
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/j_b_mcgee

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5 stars
53 (47%)
4 stars
41 (36%)
3 stars
13 (11%)
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4 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Up All Night Book Addict.
1,263 reviews279 followers
October 4, 2016
I never know what to say about such short stories...

This one pulled me in from the very first sentence. Although the foreshadowing told me what the outcome of the auction would be, it was fun getting to that part.

For a novelette, this story is rich with plenty going on that I couldn't put it down. It's sweet and breath taking all at once.

I can't wait until The Date. I am completely intrigued. I want to know what happens next.
Profile Image for Tami Talbert.
455 reviews17 followers
November 22, 2016
The Auction is a wonderfully sweet and sexy novella. I've been reading JB McGee's stories since the very beginning so was really excited to learn she had another for me. Despite the short length of this book, as she has always done with her other stories, Ms. McGee completely captured my attention from the turn of the first page. Her books are always so beautifully written always making me fall in love with her characters.

To be honest, there was only one thing that disappointed me (but in a good way) and that is simply that The Auction wasn’t long enough. In her usual style, JB McGee completely drew me into the lives of Camellia and Holden, leaving me seriously wanting much much more, not wanting to say goodbye. The Auction is a fantastic novella telling the tale of two hearts; one knowing they belong together and the other needing to find its way. Excellent story Ms. McGee. I loved it!
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews491 followers
October 9, 2016
This was a short, quick read that I couldn’t put down and I need more now!

“You can’t like his cologne. And you certainly can’t be tingly at the mere thought of his hands in your hair.”

Cammie is a socialite. She is engaged to Oliver, but is part of a charity auction to raise money for cancer since she is not yet married.

“I just want to touch her, to suck those lips until they’re swollen. I want to taste every bit of her mouth with mine.”

Holden has wanted Cammie for as long as his family has been friends with her family. And he is determined to win her auction date and prove he is a different man the one she thinks he is.

This story has me intrigued and I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to Cammie & Holden. I can’t wait to read more! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
Profile Image for Lustful Literature.
1,822 reviews336 followers
October 2, 2016

Beth's Review 4.5 STARS

I recently picked up Heartfall written by this author and fell absolutely in love with her writing. So I was more than happy check out The Auction by this author for review. I was really interested in checking out her writing in a bit of a different type of story, one not so emotional as Heartfall. I must say I was not disappointed.

Holden and Cammie have known each other for a long time and there has always been chemistry there but they never acted on it till now. Cammie is engaged to be married to Oliver but she is nothing more than eye candy on his arm for him. He doesn’t adore her like she should be and Holden is determined to show her how much more she deserves.

This one was a very quick read but I must say it was a great intro to The Date, the second book in the Magnolia Grove series. The Auction gives us a good introduction to both Cammie and Holden’s characters the explosive chemistry happening between these two.

I really loved Camden’s character. He comes off as arrogant and a womanizer to most and Cammie’s view of him is that he is nothing but an asshole. But Holden is anything but. The real Holden is sweet and caring and is determined to show Cammie how she truly deserves to be treated, adored and loved. Holden may be a bit cocky but he is so in a hot sexy way and he is absolutely yummy.

I enjoyed Cammie’s character. At times I wanted to give her a shake and say why can’t you see how Oliver treats you, how he looks at you and compare it to how Holden is but when we get to learn a little more of what growing up has been like with her mother, it really all she knows so I could sympathize with her but Holden is going to change that all for her.

This was a really enjoyable quick read that is a great introduction to The Date and I can’t wait to see more of these two. This one was a great mix of fun and flirty with hot and sexy but also has a sweet side to it. Really enjoyed getting to read a different style of writing for this author and can’t wait to see more.

Profile Image for Hope Sheesley.
66 reviews2 followers
January 10, 2015
This is part of a collaboration featuring 18 authors called Pink Shades of Words. I have to say, this story was short but J.B. managed to make us fall in love with her characters in that short time - and boy do I want more of Holden and Cammie! This is a bit different than what I have previously read by her - I LOVE that there was steam and sexiness in this one but it was written just how I would expect from her - in a very tasteful and beautiful way.

Holden has had feelings for Cammie for a long time but now she is engaged to Oliver - he needs to convince her that he isn't the right man for her. In a moment of confusion, Holden and Cammie were both able to realize how strong their connection truly is. You could actually feel their heat radiating off the pages. I loved how, in such a short time, we experienced so many genuine emotions while reading this story and were able to really connected with these characters.

As always, J.B. left me wanting more. Nothing she writes has ever disappointed and this is no exception. She is eloquent and her beautiful words always affect me in a profound way.
304 reviews10 followers
January 7, 2015
I really enjoyed this sweet and sexy novella by J.B. McGee. The Auction was a quick read full of heat and drama. This prequel novella will be featured in the Pink Shades of Words Anthology.

Holden has been attracted to Cammie for as long as he can remember but she thinks he is a jerk. Cammie is engaged Oliver who is a jerk that only cares about himself but she doesn't see it. As Cammie's wedding day approaches Holden decides he needs to try and convince her that he is a much better man for her than Oliver. Will Camden be able to win Cammie over or will she move forward with her plans to marry Oliver?

I loved the connection between Holden and Cammie. J.B. does a wonderful job of capturing the readers attention from the very beginning. I read this book in a just a few hours as I loved it so much I couldn't put it down . I fell in love with Holden and Cammie and I hope to read more about them in the future!!
Profile Image for Georgette .
498 reviews9 followers
September 15, 2016
JB’s writing style comes to a new light in this engaging new series. I love the way she puts her words down on paper.
In The Auction, we get a preview of Cammie and Holden and you are left wanting so much more. To see if Holden will get what he’s been longing for all his life. Will Holden win his dream date? Check it out and see!
Profile Image for Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.•.
2,430 reviews239 followers
October 29, 2016
Great introduction to this new series from JB McGee.

Childhood friends who cross over the 'friendship' boundary. Holden has known Cammie his whole life and he is ready to make his move and show her that he could man the man for her.
Profile Image for Sharon Dunn.
1,226 reviews22 followers
June 16, 2017
Okay, you have got my attention. Now I can't wait to see what happens next!!
97 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2017
Hot Begininning!!!!, March 4, 2017
By Toni Myers


This review is from: The Auction: A Forbidden Love Romance (Magnolia Grove Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Holden intrigued me right from the start with all his hotness. Their was a definite spark lit between Holden and Cammie and things started heating up. Holden knows what he wants and he has wanted Cammie forever, so nothing will stand in his way.
Couldn't wait to get my hands on (The Date book 2), I'm sure they will light the pages on fire.
88 reviews1 follower
March 2, 2017
I didn't know this was a short story, but I couldn't put it down, hook me from the fist page.
It’s about a smart girl Cammie who believed she was with the right person, but that it was true only in her imagination, them Holden (who has been in love with her all his life) faces her proving she deserves better. more than once we've been hiding in an illusion until that person show up and we found there is more ahead
so I'm intrigued to see what come next in the Date!!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
661 reviews16 followers
November 11, 2016
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books

This was a short, quick read that I couldn’t put down and I need more now!

“You can’t like his cologne. And you certainly can’t be tingly at the mere thought of his hands in your hair.”

Cammie is a socialite. She is engaged to Oliver, but is part of a charity auction to raise money for cancer since she is not yet married.

“I just want to touch her, to suck those lips until they’re swollen. I want to taste every bit of her mouth with mine.”

Holden has wanted Cammie for as long as his family has been friends with her family. And he is determined to win her auction date and prove he is a different man the one she thinks he is.

This story has me intrigued and I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to Cammie & Holden. I can’t wait to read more! (4 stars)
Profile Image for Allie York.
Author 39 books536 followers
September 21, 2016
I loved this story. LOVED IT!
Holden Masters grew up in the high society of country clubs and debutante balls and made a name for himself. Those names included titles like, cocky and jerk. Cammie Spencer grew up in the same circle, paying her dues and following the rules and avoiding Holden Masters. Holden was watching, always watching Cammie and the charity auction was the perfect time to make his move. Despite Cammie's crappy fiance, Holden is moving in.
This book was so insanely sweet and had just the right amount of steam. It flowed well, and despite being so short, the characters came to life perfectly. I can't wait to see what happens next in Magnolia Grove!
2,043 reviews8 followers
February 20, 2015
So good – I need more now!

This story is short yet oh so sweet! The word “potential” makes me afraid that the series may never happen and I just can’t imagine there not being more!

Cammie Spencer is young, beautiful and engaged to be married. It doesn’t seem like all is well though in the engagement as she feels her fiancé’s distance and takes steps to bridge it. Holden has known Cammie for years and seeing how Oliver treats her spurs him to action. The charity gala is an opportunity for both of them to make a change though their goals are entirely different. Cammie wants to improve the relationship with her fiancé and Holden wants to show that Oliver will never make her happy. Secrets are revealed that throw Cammie for a loop – what was she going to do?

I loved this brief glimpse into Cammie and Holden’s story. The writing was clear and conversational, inviting me into the auction to become a part of the unfolding drama. The two main characters had such chemistry between them that seemed natural and real. Despite the shortness of the prequel, so much was shared, revealed and hinted at for the future. The author packed a lot into the pages which left me wanting more. The foundation has been perfectly set and I now I wait for the rest of the story!
Profile Image for Samantha Ortegon.
Author 1 book50 followers
September 26, 2016
The Auction by J.B. McGee is a short read, it was too short for me. I wanted this story to keep on going. I am so happy that the story continues in the next book The Date, so I am going to have to patiently wait. There is something about J.B. McGee's writing style that draws the reader into the story.

Cammie Spencer and Holden Masters are two high society characters, whose families were close at one time and they practically grew up together. Holden has had a crush on Cammie for a long time but his father's reputation follows him. Cammie is engaged but she questions her fiance's affections after learning Holden's feelings for her. Will Cammie find out who knows her best when either Holden or her fiance bid on her perfect date with one of them? Will Holden be able to outbid on this date with Cammie and prove to her that he is more than what people think of him?

I loved everything about this story, it was sexy, funny, and had that little hint of something surprising is around the corner. It is a perfect tease that has me gasping for breath for the continuation of Holden and Cammie's story. 5 star must read!
Profile Image for Kelly.
188 reviews6 followers
July 12, 2015
(Complimentary Copy from author in exchange for honest review)

4 Star Book

Well what can I say about this book called The Auction it was a damn good book this book may be short but it really was good.

Holden
Oh My God what a nice guy, differently someone you can dream about, yea ok he might have be arrogant and think he is a smart arse but really deep down his arrogant ways he is a sweet, sexy even hot guy, differently wet your panties kind a guy.

Cammie
She is a sweet girl who is engaged to Oliver who is most differently an arsehole, Cammie can do so much better than Oliver, Cammie is smart, funny and really kind why the hell is she going to marry Oliver who only thinks of himself.

Holden has always like Cammie butvshe has alway thought he was an arsehole, can Holden win a secret date with Cammie? can Holden prove that he is not an arsehole and win her heart?

Well you should differently read this short but sweet book.
Profile Image for The Book Avenue.
404 reviews33 followers
October 3, 2016
The first book in the Magnolia Grove Series is fun, sexy and full of sass. I am in love with Holden and can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve. I'm really hoping that Holden wins the girl and Cammie comes to her senses.

The style is J.B., but this book is definitely new for her. I loved the banter and giggled at the dirty, naughty talk. Holden has quite the potty mouth and I freaking love it. Great start to what is going to be an awesome series.

#HotForHolden
~Jen This review was originally posted on The Book Avenue
Profile Image for Amie Morgado- We Stole Your Book Boyfriend.
1,664 reviews81 followers
November 30, 2016
It has been a while since I have read any serial/novella style series BUT I have always loved them and this is no exception !! I was pulled in so fast and hooked on Holden !! There is no doubt there will be fun and hotness when he is around. Cam is coming off as a slight B word but I have a feeling once the true her is revealed to us by Holden's presence I will grow to enjoy her. I love the Auction idea and I have to say Holden is pretty smooth yet pretty honest regardless of his intentions and Cam's other commitments. Oliver seems like a tool and I am hoping as does Holden that Cam will realize he is NOT the one BUT I am hoping she does not get hurt in the process by his betrayal. So happy to have these 3 installments on hand because I know it will be torture waiting for The Secret !!
Profile Image for Sonia Torres.
4 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2015
After reading the Auction I find myself betraying my other book boyfriend. Holden Masters, Bad boy, but is he really? This story introduces you to your next book boyfriend. Holden loves Camellia Spencer and the time has come that he lets her know it and tries to open her eyes to the jerk that her fiance, Oliver Willoughs really is. The place to do it? The Auction. Well written, the steamy encounter that ensues will leave your heart begging for more, and when you finish this short story, you will be begging for more. I could not put it down and neither will you. Read it, you'll thank me later.
Profile Image for Amanda Lee Disheveled Book Blog.
525 reviews28 followers
October 2, 2016
I was first introduce to JB McGee’s books with Heartfelt which is one of my favorites so far this year. The Auction which is sweet and steamy and feisty. It’s also part of a family saga series so this is a really fast really easy book to read. I enjoyed each part and I really like Cammie and Holden, they are old friends that have a love hate relationship for a long time. You’ll be captivated from the first page, I devoured this book in under and hour, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I highly recommend you give this series a try. I also thinks its about time I read more of the past books from this author. Why have I waited so long?
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.5k reviews257 followers
October 2, 2016
This is the First time I have read any of this authors work, and it will definitely not be the last. This is the story of Cammie who is engaged to Oliver, and Holden who has fancied Cammie for ages. He has one chance to get her attention, and convince her that Oliver is the wrong man for her. Will he succeed on this mission? You need to read this to find out for yourself.
This is a short read and the prequel to what is going to be a great series. I loved the connection and banter between all of the characters. This is well written, and had me intrigued and hooked from the very beginning. Cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Countrygalssexyreads.
185 reviews19 followers
February 24, 2015


This was a prequel to a story line that I love. The story is in a book set called "Pink Shads of Words". Even with the story being short, J.B. Has a lot going on in the story.

A warning....you will fall in love with this book and the characters! Cammie and Holden's story will have you wanting more.

Holden has cared for Cammie for a long while, but she is engaged to another man, Oliver. Holden is determined to get his girl, because holy heck, there is some steamy connections between them two.


I can't wait for the next story! Another fab story, by the great Ms. McGee!
Profile Image for Jen.
216 reviews13 followers
January 7, 2015
This novella was fun, sexy and full of sass. I am in love with Holden and can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve. I'm really hoping that Holden wins the girl and Cammie comes to her senses.

The style is J.B., but this book is definitely new for her. I loved the banter and giggled at the dirty, naughty talk. Holden has quite the potty mouth and I freaking love it. Great Prequel to what is going to be an awesome series.
Profile Image for Anima.
2,781 reviews52 followers
February 3, 2015
Fun new series! I was given a copy for an honest review. This prequel novella will be included in the new Pink Shades of Words. If you have read McGee' s This series you will recognize her connections to the south and eloquent way with words. This is a little edgier than her other series, swearing and intimate scenes show she is willing to expand her audience tastefully. Holden will have a place in your heart quite quickly.
Profile Image for Chitra.
172 reviews
September 24, 2016
4.5 STARS!!!

I'm amazed once again by JB McGee's gift and talent. She has this ability to take me right away to the book's world from the beginning, and this one is no different. Like her other books, it is beautifully written. The Auction was told from two different POVs and it's so good to know what's on both characters' heads. It left me wanting more of Holden and Cammie and their story. I can't wait to come back to Magnolia Grove!
Profile Image for Erica.
453 reviews9 followers
October 4, 2016
The Auction is a prequel that will pull you in from the very beginning. I quickly fell in love with the characters and can not wait to see what's going to happen between Cammie and Holden! Especially since the bomb has dropped on Oliver. I definitely didn't see that one coming!

I normally do not read novellas but after reading The Auction, I am a true believer in the saying, Great Things Come In Small Packages!!
Profile Image for Rachael Duncan.
Author 11 books345 followers
October 14, 2016
Hot from start to finish!
I’m not normally a fan of serials. I often find it hard to connect to the characters in such a short period of time, but that’s what JB McGee achieves with this book. I was instantly drawn to Cammie and Holden with the chemistry they try desperately to fight against. There’s the perfect amount of mystery to keep me turning the pages, and I can’t wait for the next book to come out!!
5 Auctioned Off Stars
Profile Image for DCT.
1,036 reviews2 followers
November 7, 2016
The Auction: Two bids changed everything.

This was just enough to get me hooked! Cammie and Holden have known each other since childhood; but due to some history that has yet to be revealed, Holden has a reputation that Cammie views as unfavorable. That however, does not take away from her attraction to him. The Auction brings it all to life. Getting ready to dive into The Date! Can't wait to see where this is headed.
Profile Image for Mary Fazzi.
1,274 reviews10 followers
October 29, 2016
Awe. Holden isn't an A$$

Cami and Holden have been family friends for years but Holden holds a candle for Cami that he comes to want a chance with her. So his mom is on the Committee that needs to raise money for breast cancer and comes up with the idea, with Holden's help, to have an auction for all single women. Holden sees his chance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews