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Twin Oaks #1

Mama Knows Best

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Sometimes Mama actually knows what's best ... The last thing MaCee Burkett wanted was to move back to her hometown-and in with her mother- but circumstances demand she do just that. She finds the life she had before was not as bad as she had imagined, and she is happier than she thought possible. As she reconnects with friends, she finds a love she never dreamed would be hers. Tyler Dixon has an unexpected inhertance when his father suddenly dies. He decides to move to the small town of Twin Oaks and go back to his roots. MaCee is an unexpected bonus he soon discoveres he dosen't want to live without. Mama Knows Best is the introduction to the small town of Twin Oaks, where everyone knows everyone and then some.

167 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2018

57 people are currently reading
141 people want to read

About the author

Reece Taylor

14 books61 followers
Reece has always been an avid listener to people's stories and has loved telling some of her own. When she became a teenager, her grandmother gave her a romance novel (very G-rated) and this began her love of reading. She has dabbled with writing for years and never committed to just doing it. Finally, she made up her mind and decided to try due to the fact there were so many stories in her mind that wanted out. She lives at the beach with her husband and dog in Alabama.

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5 stars
46 (42%)
4 stars
40 (37%)
3 stars
14 (13%)
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6 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Janna ♥ I'm A Sweet And Sassy Book Whore ♥.
1,842 reviews211 followers
October 30, 2017
***This and other reviews can be found at www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com ***

*ARC*

We have all heard the saying “mama knows best”, sometimes that is true and sometimes it’s not. In Mama Knows Best it is, or wait should I not tell you and make you find out for yourself? Naw I won’t do that to you, Mama really does know best in this sweet first book in the Twin Oaks series. It is the first book, but I was really impressed with Ms. Taylor’s writing style. My grandparents are from the South and as a child I was down there a lot and also lived in Oklahoma and Texas so it reminded me of the small Southern feel that you just don’t get up here in the north. The book isn’t overall a long but it isn’t a novella either, it is a good pick for a fall afternoon to curl up under a blanket and read. MaCee and Tyler will make you love this story; I know they did for me! I am excited about reading more of this series in the future.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews129 followers
Want to read
June 21, 2023
💝FREE on Amazon today (12/15/2018)!💝
Profile Image for Janice Bold.
409 reviews
April 10, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book recently and this is my unbiased review of said book.

I don't know how I've never seen anything of this author's before and I regret it. I really enjoyed reading this book. I binge read it, which right now is not hard to do.

We have MaCee Burkett, she had to move back to her small hometown to help look after her 'ailing' mother. It's been a long time since MaCee's been home and there are reasons for that! Then we have Tyler Dixon, he's in town settling his dad's estate after dads sudden death. It's a small town, first of all, and everyone knows everyone's business. This town is still stuck back in the olden days when they used to have Cotillions (google it!), every unmarried girls nightmare. Picture big puffy dress, big hair, and big pressure from your mom to interact with men in the chance you might get paired off.

MaCee has not been home in a while and had chosen to go off to college in another state, I think, to avoid the drama with her Mom. Mom was having a hard time dealing with things after MaCee's dad passed away and teenage angst and mama drama do not mix. I really enjoyed reading about all the different relationships going on in this town, the drama, the scheming, the mean girls, etc.

I loved the HEA! Thanks for sharing this great book and I will definitely look for more by Reece Taylor in the future!
1,020 reviews12 followers
December 4, 2019
Of course Mama knows best?

This was my first read of Reece Taylor’s work. I enjoyed this sweet (yet hot) romance between MaCee and Tyler.

The first time she saw him out at a bar, she likened herself to two-day-old road kill, while he looked like a messy-haired sex muffin. I really laughed out loud! Where on earth did you come up with this from?

The characters for the most part were quite likable. But, the deception of her own mother!? I couldn’t believe it! Even though she had her funny and poignant moments, I just found her to be a bit over-bearing and controlling. Lucky MaCee is such a strong-willed woman.

All of the events in the story pave the way for a drama-filled journey. There are many ups and downs, but will this couple make it? Read this well-written book to find out more!

I look forward to reading more of Reece’s work. I received a free ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Donise.
1,293 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2020
I loved this book. I laughed and cried while enjoying the journey and I can't wait for the next book to come out. Mama Evie is a hoot and I love her conniving ways. MaCee is just as bad and loves to get even with her mama and her brother. MaCee has the best friends in the world and I loved how they all watched out for each other. Tyler has no clue what it is like to live in this small town and when he gets involved with MaCee he is more worried about his weird family than hers. I think it all just added to the fun. However all is not sunshine and roses, there are several bumps in the road for everyone and secrets to be revealed and old hurts to be dealt with. You will just have to read to see if MaCee and Tyler get their HEA and find out just why "Mama Knows Best" I think you will have a blast.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
931 reviews7 followers
October 15, 2017
What a great start to the Twin Oaks series. This is my first read from this author and I will definitely continue with this series as the characters were all so well developed that you can't help but want to know more. It had that charming small town vibe and as a long time fan of shows like gilmore girls and hart of dixie, this type of small town romance had all the great elements I was looking for. It had humour, some heartbreak and a very heartwarming love story. I recieved an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Maria Cecília .
138 reviews5 followers
February 29, 2020
That´s a great start for a southern romance series. The characters are just adorable, specially the heroine of this book, which is not the Mama, but MaCee. She is sassy, sensitive, a wonderful friend, loyal and caring. Tyler is just perfect for her, protective, trustworthy and very very sexy. Their passion is overwhelming! You´re gonna laugh, feel hot and bothered, and get a nice chance to meet many of the other characters of this Louisiana town. I can´t wait to read the HEA of them all (Mama also)!!
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
4,836 reviews111 followers
October 6, 2019
This is an extremely well written book that once you start reading you will have a very hard time putting down. It moves along at a great pace, has awesome characters that you cannot help but fall in love with and a story that will keep you interested from the moment that you start reading all the way till the very last word. This is a book that has got to be read, there is no doubt about it. You will not be sorry.
Profile Image for Socially Book Nerd .
511 reviews48 followers
October 31, 2017
Book #1 in the series lays the ground work for many many interesting side characters. I hope there are more books in this series, As I've come to love this small town. McCreee is a good start she is social and grew up hating her small town until she has to come back, she realizes what a gift it was. Plus meeting new local Taylor doesn't hurt. A fun, flirty, and easy read.
Profile Image for Tracy Fritts.
1,474 reviews36 followers
September 15, 2019
Mama knows Best is a sweet and delightful read. I truly enjoyed reading this story. It was a page turner. The characters are delightful and loveable to read about. It was well written and a good storyline. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I read and reviewed an Advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own.
Profile Image for Janice.
880 reviews
October 23, 2019
A Review of Mama Knows Best by Reece Taylor

Great storyline - 5 Stars

Reece Taylor is a totally new to me author and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The characters are both well-defined and easy to fall in love with.

**********
**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**
Profile Image for Oriana Reads.
4,296 reviews37 followers
December 5, 2019
Such a sweet and romantic story. This book was so awesome with a little bit drama and great characters. The whole group were fascinating people with their own problems and reams. The little sneakpeaks were awesome... you just want to know their story. HEA with a small town flair... you will feel like home
4,919 reviews30 followers
March 17, 2020
Enjoyed this humorous book with MaCee and Tyler who meet when she returns to her small town and meets him one night not looking her best while he is HOT. This starts off with all kinds of funny characters including both MaCee and Tyler and he mother may be in the early stages of dememtia. Really sweet book with a little heat.
Profile Image for Nate.
24k reviews19 followers
December 12, 2018
I enjoyed MaCee & Tyler's story. It was an intriguing book. And a first by this author for me. Great characters. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Jessica Feeney.
369 reviews3 followers
October 2, 2019
Mama knows best was such a sweet you can’t help but fall in love with the book and characters. I will definitely be checking out the others in the series. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Emily Gray.
Author 10 books145 followers
July 13, 2024
Southern charm at its best

When I read the first line of the story in the author's tone and Southern accent, I couldn't help but laugh. I knew the story would be full of true-to-life moments with all the quirks -- gossiping, meddling, and big hearted loving of small town country living that any Southern mama would appreciate. I adored MaCee and Tyler's story and can't wait to read more of the series to see how everyone else will fare against those who can't seem to help themselves from "helping" the ones they love to find love.
559 reviews5 followers
March 30, 2021
The first book in the Twin Oaks series is like an introduction to the small town life and all the characters and camaraderie we expect to see. I enjoyed this book and its blend of romance, gossip, and family dynamics. Macee and Tyler were adorable together and I was rooting for their HEA!
521 reviews2 followers
April 13, 2020
MaCee and Tyler met through a mutual friend and there was instant attraction. She recently came back to her hometown and he moved to town into the house left to him by his late father. It didn't take long for them to decide that their attraction to each other was worth pursuing and was also more than just a fling. This was a delightful story, funny at times with a lot of emotion. I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Mary Brannian.
1,068 reviews19 followers
August 6, 2019
Mama Really DOES Know Best

Good God, I’m only twenty-two and hello, welcome to the twenty-first century, women. A woman does not have to have a man to define her." - MaCee

MaCee returned to her hometown and has moved back in with her mother. Unfortunately, she arrived JUST in time for the annual cotillion. And horror of horrors, she's over twenty one, with no husband or fiancee in sight! The old biddies are already attaching SPINSTER to her name... Desperate to escape the censure of small minded women, MaCee and her friends leave for a local bar....

"I cannot believe how awful I look. My hair is standing on end, I have mascara and eyeliner smeared under my eyes, pillow marks on one side of my face, and what looks like dried drool coming out the side of my mouth. How embarrassing. He looks like a messy-haired sex muffin and I look like two-day-old road kill. I guess it was good while it lasted, or I’m assuming it was, considering I can’t remember any of it." - MaCee

Waking up in bed next to a man she had met less than twelve hours ago leaves MaCee in a panicked state. Oh, what did she do? What WILL she do? Her mother will be disappointed and won't hesitate to tell her so! But Fate smiles on MaCee, as her mother calls to remind her she will be out of town for the day. One crisis averted!

Quickly engulfed in her new responsibilities training to become a nurse practioner, MaCee hasn't forgotten what brought her home: her mother's state of health. She's only forty-nine, far too young for dementia! Determined to find a way to help, MaCee insists on accompanying her mother to her next Dr. appointment... And things get weird... It's almost as if her mother is FLIRTING with her Dr., and he seems to be reciprocating! MaCee soon discovers that her mother's "illness" was a ruse to entice MaCee to move back home.

As the days go by, MaCee and Tyler become much closer. MaCee invites Tyler over to meet her mother, and Tyler attempts to surprise MaCee with an impromptu visit with his family. Raucous laughter and humor abound, with tales told by Tyler's mother. The bond between MaCee and Tyler grow stronger... Until the day it all goes wrong...


A sweet romance with some heat; Tyler and MaCee make you "feel good" as you experience their ups and downs, their joys and disappointments.


“I know how rare true love is, and you can’t let it pass you by.” - Mama Evie
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
October 29, 2017
Mama Knows Best is the first book that I've read by this author, and I can honestly say that I really enjoyed it. MaCee Burkett left home quite a while ago, because she wanted to get away from the town of Twin Oaks & her Mama. Now she has no choice but to come home, and she moves back in with her mother. As she's getting used to her small hometown again, she is learning that she's missed it more than she thought, as she reconnects with old friends. Even the relationship with her mother is getting much better. And the best part is meeting Tyler Dixon, a new guy in town. As they spend more time together, strong feelings are growing quickly, which has MaCee admitting to herself that maybe living in the small town isn't so bad after all. I want to start out by saying that the humor in this story is off the chart HILARIOUS, and I laughed like crazy cover to cover. MaCee was a great heroine, while Tyler was drool worthy, and I fell hard for them instantly. And the very colorful cast of secondaries were amazing, so I couldn't get enough of them either! Reece Taylor has a talented writing style that I instantly saw, as she captivated me from the very beginning, and her very colorful characters with tons of depth. I had one big issue, and remember, this is only MY OPINION, the ending was too abrupt for me. Like I hit a wall suddenly to stop moment. I don't know how else to describe it, and for that I'm sorry, as the rest of the story ticked all my boxes. Anyway, I'm very excited to read the next book in the series, because of questions left unanswered about others, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for PelicanFreak.
2,113 reviews
June 11, 2018
Super cute, highly-addictive read!!

I could not get enough of this - the small town and everyone in it. And it really did have laugh-out-loud moments for me, I lost count of how many times I caught myself laughing or caught strange looks from those around me.

Reece is a young, driven, hard worker who has just returned to her small town. She’s got an amazing sense of humor and it makes everything more fun. The author did an amazing job of making her world a character - I absolutely need more of this small town. Every time I put it down, I realized my head was still there, in Twin Oaks. I’d move there right now if I could.

There are secondary characters that have big personalities and I cannot help but hope some of them get their own books to star in. This whole cast, town included, is beyond lovable. The character development is advanced and consistent.

Production-wise, some aspects of the editing are amazing, while others could use some help. Lack of and improper punctuation are present, along with run-on sentences but—this isn’t anything that creates confusion or takes away from the reading experience too much. I would recommend one more pass by another set of eyes to clean it up a bit.

The rotating point-of-views is fun and all change-ups are clear, leaving no questions.
The book is in present tense and this is consistent throughout - again editing here is on point. Spelling and grammar are fine.

The cover is super cute and the book is aptly titled.

If you’re looking for an escape, or love small towns and likeable characters - I’d strongly recommend picking up this one.
Profile Image for PelicanFreak.
2,113 reviews
April 19, 2018
Super cute, highly-addictive read!!

I could not get enough of this - the small town and everyone in it. And it really did have laugh-out-loud moments for me, I lost count of how many times I caught myself laughing or caught strange looks from those around me.

Reece is a young, driven, hard worker who has just returned to her small town. She’s got an amazing sense of humor and it makes everything more fun. The author did an amazing job of making her world a character - I absolutely need more of this small town. Every time I put it down, I realized my head was still there, in Twin Oaks. I’d move there right now if I could.

There are secondary characters that have big personalities and I cannot help but hope some of them get their own books to star in. This whole cast, town included, is beyond lovable. The character development is advanced and consistent.

Production-wise, some aspects of the editing are amazing, while others could use some help. Lack of and improper punctuation are present, along with run-on sentences but—this isn’t anything that creates confusion or takes away from the reading experience too much. I would recommend one more pass by another set of eyes to clean it up a bit.

The rotating point-of-views is fun and all change-ups are clear, leaving no questions.
The book is in present tense and this is consistent throughout - again editing here is on point. Spelling and grammar are fine.

The cover is super cute and the book is aptly titled.

If you’re looking for an escape, or love small towns and likeable characters - I’d strongly recommend picking up this one.
Profile Image for PelicanFreak.
2,113 reviews
October 6, 2019
Super cute, highly-addictive read!!

I could not get enough of this - the small town and everyone in it. And it really did have laugh-out-loud moments for me, I lost count of how many times I caught myself laughing or caught strange looks from those around me.

Reece is a young, driven, hard worker who has just returned to her small town. She’s got an amazing sense of humor and it makes everything more fun. The author did an amazing job of making her world a character - I absolutely need more of this small town. Every time I put it down, I realized my head was still there, in Twin Oaks. I’d move there right now if I could.

There are secondary characters that have big personalities and I cannot help but hope some of them get their own books to star in. This whole cast, town included, is beyond lovable. The character development is advanced and consistent.

Production-wise, some aspects of the editing are amazing, while others could use some help. Lack of and improper punctuation are present, along with run-on sentences but—this isn’t anything that creates confusion or takes away from the reading experience too much. I would recommend one more pass by another set of eyes to clean it up a bit.

The rotating point-of-views is fun and all change-ups are clear, leaving no questions.
The book is in present tense and this is consistent throughout - again editing here is on point. Spelling and grammar are fine.

The cover is super cute and the book is aptly titled.

If you’re looking for an escape, or love small towns and likeable characters - I’d strongly recommend picking up this one.

4 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Profile Image for Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat.
1,230 reviews10 followers
December 10, 2019
After the death of her father, MaCee's mother becomes very protective towards her. As a result, she feels so limited in leading her life that she soon starts living on her own. Until she notices that her mother is forgetful and she returns home. Her education also brings her back to the village where she grew up. MaCee does not think she can become happy in her mother's house and in a small town. Until she meets Tyler.
In addition to the relationship that flourishes between Tyler and MaCee, you also meet many other characters in this book by people that MaCee has known since she was a young girl. Many old friendships, but also the eternal struggle between her and the girl she has been fighting with since childhood.
The writing style of Reece Taylor makes it an easily readable book where you have the feeling that you are part of the story, that's how close she brings it to you. Humorously described dialogues and the thoughts of MaCee make you often have a smile on your face when reading this book

I received a free copy without obligation from the author. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review
Profile Image for AnneMarie Davee.
1,393 reviews
June 20, 2020
This is a fun, small town romance. It is the beginning of the of a series set in a small, southern town, so you get to meet a cast of characters. It is what small town life should look like; strong family ties, a bit of drama, and a whole lot of love. MaCee and Tyler have a slow burn romance that heats up when they finally get together. Tyler is the kind of sweet guy that every woman would love to be with. MaCee can be a bit quirky, and strong willed, as any southern lady may be, and the antics she and her friends get into are good for some laughs. The endearing loyalties are always present and are heartwarming.
This is a nice beginning to the series and seeing the characters that have been introduced, it will be a fun one! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
283 reviews3 followers
September 3, 2019
MaCee returns home after a few years away. She needed a little separation from her mama, but now her mama is having a few "issues". I really think mama is a genius though😊. MaCee meets Tyler and they hit it off. Very sweet book, low on angst. It shows the fun and excitement of a new relationship and working through family issues that is long overdue. One of my favorite things is when MaCee panics, I really felt Tyler's devastation. My heart completely broke for him. I also liked that none of the characters acted like idiots. MaCee had a moment, but it was over with quickly. There was no excess drama for drama sake. Again, very sweet book to escape into. I really want to read Cam's book!
Profile Image for Jill Badker.
790 reviews7 followers
October 23, 2019
LOVED this story. This is my first book by Reece and I look forward to many more. Macee moves back home to help take care of her mother and finish her schooling. Is she ready to be back in her home town with all her friends and family memories? But getting back together with old friends helps her really feel like she's home for a reason. Then she sees the most handsome man she's ever seen across the room. Tyler is new to town and has made many friends while here, but seeing this beautiful women walking across the room stops his heart.
This story will lighten anyone's day and make you want to come back home and find out what you mama knows!!!
Profile Image for Annette.
3,167 reviews9 followers
November 22, 2019
Perfectly named romance story. This is so heart-warming and hilarious. I love Tyler, I think he falls in love with MaCee instantly but he is not indecisive about it just realizes the importance of his opportunity and takes his time convincing her. I like MaCee too, she's a bit more reserved but she definitely can't fight the feeling either. They have their challenges to work through before their full speed ahead happily ever after. Great series starter, can't wait to read what next for this community of supportive friends and loved ones. I received a free copy and without obligation from the author.
Profile Image for Penny Leidecker.
2,678 reviews26 followers
January 15, 2020
This is a small town romance series set in Twin Oaks, Louisiana and Mama Knows Best is centered around MaCee and Tyler. MaCee returns home when her mama starts having episodes of forgetfulness. Tyler and her meet at the Twin Oaks Annual Cotillion. Of course, Melody Sims, her nemesis, is there. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say this is an entertaining read that will have you laughing out loud in parts. I recommend this new to me author to everyone that enjoys reading about small towns where everyone knows you and friends sometimes make the best family. I enjoyed this book so much, I’ve already purchased the other books in this series.
Profile Image for Terry.
189 reviews4 followers
November 30, 2017
Mama Knows Best (Twin Oaks Series Book 1) is the newest release by Reece Taylor. I was just introduced to this author for the first time through this book and might I say I am hooked on the series. I absolutely loved the sweet style of her writing and the fully developed way that she pulled me into the country mentality of how things go. I will definitely be continue to read this series and pick up her paranormal series as well to read. Thank you Reece for giving me the opportunity to read your book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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