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Southern Seasons #1
Magnolia Summer
Truett’s hometown needed a doctor, so after finishing medical school, he returned to Bethel Springs. Fighting a secret war with a corrupt lawman wasn’t in his plans, but Sheriff Suggs thinks he’s above the law and can lynch anyone who crosses him. When Suggs threatens his childhood friend, Truett dons a cape and hood and rescues him—placing “the Hooded Horseman” in Sheriff Suggs’s crosshairs.
Celia Wilcox arrives in Bethel Springs, Alabama, in June of 1880. She’s come from Nashville to help her sister care for their younger siblings. She hopes only to be on the small farm for the summer, just until her mother recovers from the shock of Celia’s father’s death. She must return to Nashville to fulfill her dream of opening her own dress shop, especially now, to provide for her family.
The lovely Celia catches Truett’s eye, and he finds himself wanting to impress her. But she flatly refuses to flirt with him or to fall for his—if he does say so himself—considerable charm.
Celia’s growing attraction to the young Dr. Beverly terrifies her, and even if she could marry him, which she cannot, what will happen when Sheriff Suggs discovers Truett is the Hooded Horseman? Will Celia be able to prevent the sheriff from carrying out one last lynching?
Celia Wilcox arrives in Bethel Springs, Alabama, in June of 1880. She’s come from Nashville to help her sister care for their younger siblings. She hopes only to be on the small farm for the summer, just until her mother recovers from the shock of Celia’s father’s death. She must return to Nashville to fulfill her dream of opening her own dress shop, especially now, to provide for her family.
The lovely Celia catches Truett’s eye, and he finds himself wanting to impress her. But she flatly refuses to flirt with him or to fall for his—if he does say so himself—considerable charm.
Celia’s growing attraction to the young Dr. Beverly terrifies her, and even if she could marry him, which she cannot, what will happen when Sheriff Suggs discovers Truett is the Hooded Horseman? Will Celia be able to prevent the sheriff from carrying out one last lynching?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2018
140 people are currently reading
1394 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Dickerson
41 books6,557 followersMelanie Dickerson is the New York Times bestselling author of happily-ever-after romance. She believes in love, laughter, afternoon tea, and the power of story.
With a million books sold and numerous awards, including two Christy Awards, two Golden Quills, a National Readers Choice Award, Christian Retailing’s Best, and Book Buyers’ Best Awards, her books have hit #1 in her category on the New York Times bestseller list.
When she’s not writing, Melanie can be found watching Pride and Prejudice for the hundredth time, cozying up to her handsome hero husband, or shaking her head at her slightly unhinged Jack Russell terrier. She lives in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachians near Huntsville, Alabama.
With a million books sold and numerous awards, including two Christy Awards, two Golden Quills, a National Readers Choice Award, Christian Retailing’s Best, and Book Buyers’ Best Awards, her books have hit #1 in her category on the New York Times bestseller list.
When she’s not writing, Melanie can be found watching Pride and Prejudice for the hundredth time, cozying up to her handsome hero husband, or shaking her head at her slightly unhinged Jack Russell terrier. She lives in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachians near Huntsville, Alabama.
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July 17, 2018Wait........Melanie Dickerson has a new book and I didn’t see it until she posted something on her Instagram today?!?! HOW DID I NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS BEFORE?!?!? I AM SO STICKEN EXCITED AND LOOK AT THE GORGEOUS COVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
July 15, 2018
Let's have a talk..me and you. Yes, you reading this right now, I am talking to you. Let's be honest with each other, you are here for the same reason I was. I wanted an AMAZING romantic historical read and Melanie Dickerson is one of the best. Yes, one of the BEST! She weaves a story that pulls you in and makes you forget that you are not truly living and breathing the story..no..you are at home, cup of coffee in hand(hopefully) sitting in your favorite reading spot and the butterflies start fluttering because you get to walk into this world Mrs. Dickerson created.
Swoon worthy hero - check
feisty heroine- check
life on hold till finish book- check
Swoon worthy hero - check
feisty heroine- check
life on hold till finish book- check
August 12, 2018
"You just need to trust me. And trust God."
Truett Beverly comes back home to Bethel Springs, Alabama after finishing medical school because he's needed there. He didn't expect to have to fight a corrupt sheriff, but Sheriff Suggs threatens his childhood friend, so Truett dons a black cape and hood and becomes the Hooded Horseman. This act places him in a very dangerous position, for if he's caught, he will most certainly be hung. Just as Sheriff Suggs loves to do to the folks that rile him. Some just because they exist.
Celia Wilcox comes to Bethel Springs in response to her younger sister's pleas to come help them. Their father has died and their mother is in shock and can't function. Celia has 4 siblings and none are old enough to head a household. But her heart is set on returning to Nashville and continuing to save to open her own sewing shop.
Truett is taken with Celia at first glance and desires to impress her, but she is having none of it. What will Truett do if the sheriff finds out his other activities?
Melanie Dickerson is well known for her unique ability to take a beloved fairy tale and rework it with an inspirational bent. I love those! She has delved into the Regency era with several books and done it very well indeed. Now she has proven that she can do Southern fiction with the best of them. I loved this book from the very first. She has written a cast of characters that grow on a reader's heart and a story that really impacts deeply. A story that bears witness to the fact that things were not always well in the south in the 1800s. Well done!
*My thanks to the author for a preview copy of this book. I was not expected to leave a review. All opinions stated here are entirely my own.
Truett Beverly comes back home to Bethel Springs, Alabama after finishing medical school because he's needed there. He didn't expect to have to fight a corrupt sheriff, but Sheriff Suggs threatens his childhood friend, so Truett dons a black cape and hood and becomes the Hooded Horseman. This act places him in a very dangerous position, for if he's caught, he will most certainly be hung. Just as Sheriff Suggs loves to do to the folks that rile him. Some just because they exist.
Celia Wilcox comes to Bethel Springs in response to her younger sister's pleas to come help them. Their father has died and their mother is in shock and can't function. Celia has 4 siblings and none are old enough to head a household. But her heart is set on returning to Nashville and continuing to save to open her own sewing shop.
Truett is taken with Celia at first glance and desires to impress her, but she is having none of it. What will Truett do if the sheriff finds out his other activities?
Melanie Dickerson is well known for her unique ability to take a beloved fairy tale and rework it with an inspirational bent. I love those! She has delved into the Regency era with several books and done it very well indeed. Now she has proven that she can do Southern fiction with the best of them. I loved this book from the very first. She has written a cast of characters that grow on a reader's heart and a story that really impacts deeply. A story that bears witness to the fact that things were not always well in the south in the 1800s. Well done!
*My thanks to the author for a preview copy of this book. I was not expected to leave a review. All opinions stated here are entirely my own.
December 26, 2022
One of Melanie Dickerson's best romances ever!!! Seriously, this is one of those books that the public library hopes I will just buy instead of checking it out every few weeks.
In the post-Civil War South, Celia Wilcox returns home after her father dies to help her family. While navigating her new role in Bethel Springs, Celia begins to fall for the town doctor, Truett. Celia also hears rumors of a mysterious "Hooded Horseman" who opposes the corrupt town sheriff.
Celia's flaws make her easy to relate to. I can definitely understand the whole getting super irritated with your siblings thing... And the caring too much about looking nice thing...
Truett is one of the sweetest love interests in all of fiction. He does so much to help Celia and her family!!! He obviously loves his brother, despite the brother's disability. Truett is great with kids, which is just so ADORABLE!!!!!
I really enjoyed the subplot with the woman who got pregnant out of wedlock. I felt like it was handled really well (and gave a nice chance for a beautiful pro-life message).
I would highly recommend this sweet Christian romance!
In the post-Civil War South, Celia Wilcox returns home after her father dies to help her family. While navigating her new role in Bethel Springs, Celia begins to fall for the town doctor, Truett. Celia also hears rumors of a mysterious "Hooded Horseman" who opposes the corrupt town sheriff.
Celia's flaws make her easy to relate to. I can definitely understand the whole getting super irritated with your siblings thing... And the caring too much about looking nice thing...
Truett is one of the sweetest love interests in all of fiction. He does so much to help Celia and her family!!! He obviously loves his brother, despite the brother's disability. Truett is great with kids, which is just so ADORABLE!!!!!
I really enjoyed the subplot with the woman who got pregnant out of wedlock. I felt like it was handled really well (and gave a nice chance for a beautiful pro-life message).
I would highly recommend this sweet Christian romance!
July 18, 2018
my rating is 4.5
Historical fiction is not my preferred genre, but when it comes to Dickerson books, I can’t help but be engaged from the very beginning. This book was no exception, Truett (don’t you just love that name?) interferes with a wrongful lynching, saving his best friend’s life regardless of the risk it means for him being the town doctor. Sheriff Suggs is definitely corrupt and needs to be stopped, but what can one man do against the local authority?
Celia gets an urgent letter from her sister regarding their mom’s health, stops what she is doing and rushes back to this small town to help out. She has EVERY intention of getting back to Nashville to start her own clothing business one day, how long does her family REALLY need her to stay?
When Truett meets Celia, it feels A LOT like how Elizabeth and Darcy meeting for the first time, except Celia is determined to keep her distance with the handsome doctor while Truett is determined to charm her and show her that small town people are not as backwoods as she thinks they are. He will do whatever it takes to get her attention and charm her even while they both learn there’s a bounty on the “hooded horseman” and how long can his identity be kept a secret.
Truett is a true hero in this book; he is brave, kind, romantic, and trusts God no matter how hopeless things seem. Loved how he helps Celia’s siblings while her mom is ill and they have no one else to turn to! There is a STRONG message of racism and injustice that is so well written and on point, it’s respectfully yet powerfully described here.
There are many kissing scenes in this book and even though it’s not appropriate since the couple is not engaged, they are sweet, clean, moments and really enhance the story.
Celia annoys me through half the book with her indecisiveness regarding Truett. She just can’t figure out her feelings for him. Some of it is comical but she arrives in town with her hair in a bun, determined, and uptight. Truett changes all of that for her with his heart and helpfulness. At the same time, I understood her fears and even related to some of them. Couldn’t believe how many times she faints in the story, but it is a doozy of a summer! At one point she kills a rattlesnake and it was fun how proud she was of that moment after the scary part is over. Hilarious when she faints in church because she sees Sheriff Suggs and panics!
“…was this what was best for her? Had she ever cared what God wanted? Was she too focused on what she wanted to even wonder?” Really love that revelation for Celia and completely agreed.
Also HAVE to mention that yes, the cover is so very pretty…BUT the way the couple appear to me isn’t entirely accurate. They almost look like Romeo & Juliet in their appearance and how they’re looking at one another. The characters in the book don’t match this “look” for me, it even looks like there could be hanky panky going on. NOT at all! It’s also fun to see them going from distanced to friendship to more, but despite the romance in the plot, there’s so much more going on so don’t be misled by this Gone With the Wind setting going on here. The cover is great but the story has much more depth than shown here :) :)
I strongly considered this the Southern version of Pride & Prejudice and highly recommend it whether you have enjoyed Dickerson’s books before or this is the first you’ve heard of her work. You won’t be disappointed!
I received an early copy of this. I volunteered to review it, all comments and opinions are my own.
Historical fiction is not my preferred genre, but when it comes to Dickerson books, I can’t help but be engaged from the very beginning. This book was no exception, Truett (don’t you just love that name?) interferes with a wrongful lynching, saving his best friend’s life regardless of the risk it means for him being the town doctor. Sheriff Suggs is definitely corrupt and needs to be stopped, but what can one man do against the local authority?
Celia gets an urgent letter from her sister regarding their mom’s health, stops what she is doing and rushes back to this small town to help out. She has EVERY intention of getting back to Nashville to start her own clothing business one day, how long does her family REALLY need her to stay?
When Truett meets Celia, it feels A LOT like how Elizabeth and Darcy meeting for the first time, except Celia is determined to keep her distance with the handsome doctor while Truett is determined to charm her and show her that small town people are not as backwoods as she thinks they are. He will do whatever it takes to get her attention and charm her even while they both learn there’s a bounty on the “hooded horseman” and how long can his identity be kept a secret.
Truett is a true hero in this book; he is brave, kind, romantic, and trusts God no matter how hopeless things seem. Loved how he helps Celia’s siblings while her mom is ill and they have no one else to turn to! There is a STRONG message of racism and injustice that is so well written and on point, it’s respectfully yet powerfully described here.
There are many kissing scenes in this book and even though it’s not appropriate since the couple is not engaged, they are sweet, clean, moments and really enhance the story.
Celia annoys me through half the book with her indecisiveness regarding Truett. She just can’t figure out her feelings for him. Some of it is comical but she arrives in town with her hair in a bun, determined, and uptight. Truett changes all of that for her with his heart and helpfulness. At the same time, I understood her fears and even related to some of them. Couldn’t believe how many times she faints in the story, but it is a doozy of a summer! At one point she kills a rattlesnake and it was fun how proud she was of that moment after the scary part is over. Hilarious when she faints in church because she sees Sheriff Suggs and panics!
“…was this what was best for her? Had she ever cared what God wanted? Was she too focused on what she wanted to even wonder?” Really love that revelation for Celia and completely agreed.
Also HAVE to mention that yes, the cover is so very pretty…BUT the way the couple appear to me isn’t entirely accurate. They almost look like Romeo & Juliet in their appearance and how they’re looking at one another. The characters in the book don’t match this “look” for me, it even looks like there could be hanky panky going on. NOT at all! It’s also fun to see them going from distanced to friendship to more, but despite the romance in the plot, there’s so much more going on so don’t be misled by this Gone With the Wind setting going on here. The cover is great but the story has much more depth than shown here :) :)
I strongly considered this the Southern version of Pride & Prejudice and highly recommend it whether you have enjoyed Dickerson’s books before or this is the first you’ve heard of her work. You won’t be disappointed!
I received an early copy of this. I volunteered to review it, all comments and opinions are my own.
August 24, 2018
What's that? Another Melanie Dickerson book?! Why, yes, yes it is! Magnolia Summer is the first book in Melanie Dickerson’s brand new Southern Seasons series. Ms. Dickerson changes things up from her usual fare by taking us to the 1880s in the Deep South of the United States. Instead of a fairy tale retelling, Ms. Dickerson writes a dashing and heroic story filled with romance set in the South!
Magnolia Summer grabs you right from the start with a gallant and heroic action scene! Parts of the story remind me of Zorro and Robin Hood. Ms. Dickerson does a great job describing the South. I especially love reading about how people in the South all take care of each other.
Readers will fall in love with our independent and sometimes high strung heroine, Celia. And the hero, Truett? I have a feeling many girls will love him! He is dashing, heroic, a little cocky and super sweet. I like seeing the characters praying and talking to God.
Ms. Dickerson writes a great story and her characters are complex and multidimensional. What are you waiting for? Grab yourself a copy of Magnolia Summer, sit on your front porch with some sweet tea and enjoy this wonderful story!
Content: This is a clean read overall. I would rate it PG for some minor content. Some examples of the content are: a mention of rape; a woman is pregnant out of wedlock; reference to tobacco; a woman deals with depression; a man smokes a cigar; mention that a man is drunk and looks at a woman’s figure; a trollop is referred to.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance
I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and GraceFaith Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
Magnolia Summer grabs you right from the start with a gallant and heroic action scene! Parts of the story remind me of Zorro and Robin Hood. Ms. Dickerson does a great job describing the South. I especially love reading about how people in the South all take care of each other.
Readers will fall in love with our independent and sometimes high strung heroine, Celia. And the hero, Truett? I have a feeling many girls will love him! He is dashing, heroic, a little cocky and super sweet. I like seeing the characters praying and talking to God.
Ms. Dickerson writes a great story and her characters are complex and multidimensional. What are you waiting for? Grab yourself a copy of Magnolia Summer, sit on your front porch with some sweet tea and enjoy this wonderful story!
Content: This is a clean read overall. I would rate it PG for some minor content. Some examples of the content are: a mention of rape; a woman is pregnant out of wedlock; reference to tobacco; a woman deals with depression; a man smokes a cigar; mention that a man is drunk and looks at a woman’s figure; a trollop is referred to.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical fiction; Romance
I want to thank Melanie Dickerson and GraceFaith Press for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
December 30, 2018
This book is set in Alabama, my home state. Magnolia Summer interested me when I first heard about it. Dickerson’s books always have great ratings and reviews and this storyline interested me more than those set during the regency period so I knew I wanted to read it. The history is pretty well known. The racial injustice that has gone on throughout history is so sad. I’m not sure how realistic the relationships between the different love interest were for the time period but I can always use my imagination. I feel like this reads as YA fiction. Fans of Regina Jennings and Mary Connealy will enjoy this one! I am interested to see where book 2 in this series leads. 3 1/5 Stars
September 6, 2018
With this new book, Melanie Dickerson has taken a different direction from her popular “fairytale” books. In doing so, she has proven that she can also write Southern historical fiction with flair. This is not a typical romance novel. In this storyline that is set during a difficult time in our country’s history, Melanie Dickerson’s characters confront the difficult subject of racism with compassion and bravery. It’s a story of family loyalty, faith, and sacrificing your own wishes to help others.
The leading man is Dr. Truett Beverly, who becomes the “Hooded Horseman” to rescue his childhood friend, and in doing so, places himself in danger. Celia Wilcox has given up her own career to take care of her younger sisters. Following their love story is at times both humorous and suspenseful. This story kept my complete attention all the way through to the end.
This is a clean, sweet romance with no foul language or embarrassing scenes.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
The leading man is Dr. Truett Beverly, who becomes the “Hooded Horseman” to rescue his childhood friend, and in doing so, places himself in danger. Celia Wilcox has given up her own career to take care of her younger sisters. Following their love story is at times both humorous and suspenseful. This story kept my complete attention all the way through to the end.
This is a clean, sweet romance with no foul language or embarrassing scenes.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
July 20, 2018
This has got the be the most incredible book Melanie Dickerson has ever written. It was just amazing. It has such a powerful message. “Magnolia Summer” takes place in Northern Alabama, not long after the Civil War. I was excited to read this because racism is obviously a huge issue, and has been for many, many years, no matter what you believe, and I was interested in how she incorporated the issue, and because the time period in America (around the Civil War) is one of my favorite time periods. (Please forgive me for that shameful run-on sentence.) She made the book historically correct (which if very rare in my experience) and handled the racial issues so so well. She projected the fact that everyone is equal and racism is wrong while keeping the book true to the time period. I’m just so incredibly impressed with this book. It honestly is a book that everyone should read. It has such a good message and it teaches the correct history well, while all at the same time, Melanie included swoon-worthy romance, well developed characters, and non-stop action and adventure. I was sucked into this book from the very beginning. I honestly have nothing negative to say about this book. It’s just a downright beautifully written book that everyone needs to read. Kudos to you, Melanie. It takes a talented author to write a book like this one. All I have is praise for “Magnolia Summer”.
October 9, 2023
4 Stars ✨
Clean Historical Romance
Alabama 1880
Celia Wilcox returns home to Bethel Springs Alabama from Nashville to help her mother and siblings. Her mother is struggling since the death of her husband and seems to be losing all touch with reality. Celia only plans to stay the summer since she has dreams of opening her own dress shop in Nashville and she won’t let anyone or anything get in the way of her dreams even if it means, selling the family’s homestead and moving them back to the city with her. That is, until she meets Truett, the young doctor who has been helping her siblings hold everything together since their fathers passing. She wants nothing to do with him and refuses every advance that he makes- she fights to stay the course until she discovers the mystery Truett has been hiding and her feelings she’s be denying are put to the test.
Magnolia Summer has to be one of my favorite Melanie Dickerson books I’ve read so far, and I’ve read a lot. Maybe it’s because I’m a southerner, not sure but this was such a sweet read. The plot was one of my favorite tropes , an independent woman who thinks she wants to do it all alone - but God intervenes with his own plan and changes their heart and tests their character. Would recommend!
Clean Historical Romance
Alabama 1880
Celia Wilcox returns home to Bethel Springs Alabama from Nashville to help her mother and siblings. Her mother is struggling since the death of her husband and seems to be losing all touch with reality. Celia only plans to stay the summer since she has dreams of opening her own dress shop in Nashville and she won’t let anyone or anything get in the way of her dreams even if it means, selling the family’s homestead and moving them back to the city with her. That is, until she meets Truett, the young doctor who has been helping her siblings hold everything together since their fathers passing. She wants nothing to do with him and refuses every advance that he makes- she fights to stay the course until she discovers the mystery Truett has been hiding and her feelings she’s be denying are put to the test.
Magnolia Summer has to be one of my favorite Melanie Dickerson books I’ve read so far, and I’ve read a lot. Maybe it’s because I’m a southerner, not sure but this was such a sweet read. The plot was one of my favorite tropes , an independent woman who thinks she wants to do it all alone - but God intervenes with his own plan and changes their heart and tests their character. Would recommend!
July 16, 2018
This story takes place in the late 1800’s. A wonderful cast of characters, including Celia, Lizzie, Will, Truett, Griff, Almira, James, Sheriff Suggs and plenty more, round out this trip to the south about 5 years after the end of the war. Celia returns to her family to help care for them after her mother sinks into despair after losing her husband. She is attracted to Dr Beverly but fights it as she has plans to go back to Tennessee and continue saving to open her own dress shop. The story weaves around these two, with other subplots intertwined that draw the reader into the times and community.
August 2, 2018
This book is so good! I haven't read a book this fast in a long time. About 4 hours total between two nights!
I am still laughing and shaking my head over the witty banter between the main characters.
I love how it's like watching a movie unfold and you can see the characters in your mind.
This one is going on my to be read again pile!
I am still laughing and shaking my head over the witty banter between the main characters.
I love how it's like watching a movie unfold and you can see the characters in your mind.
This one is going on my to be read again pile!
September 30, 2018
I like all of Melanie Dickerson's books, but this one was a new flavor and I loved it.
While a sweet tale of two young people with very, very mild romance, it is more a story of fighting for justice and survival in a hard time for all.
I felt Ms. Dickerson did an excellent job of giving us an amazing story, with powerful life lessons that everyone should learn from.
While a sweet tale of two young people with very, very mild romance, it is more a story of fighting for justice and survival in a hard time for all.
I felt Ms. Dickerson did an excellent job of giving us an amazing story, with powerful life lessons that everyone should learn from.
July 20, 2018
In Magnolia Summer, Dr. Truett Beverly returns to Bethel Springs, Alabama, his hometown, and finds himself in the middle of racial tensions, corruption, and secrets. When an African-American childhood friend is threatened, Truett becomes the Hooded Horseman to save him from Sheriff Sugg’s nefarious plans. Sugg and his vigilantes have taken the law into their own hands, executing their own brand of justice.
Celia Wilcox comes to Bethel Springs to help her sister care for their grieving mother and her younger siblings. Hoping to be there only for a few months, she longs to be back in Nashville to fulfill her dream of opening a dress shop. But Celia’s mother is worse than she thought and her father left behind no assets to support the family after his death. Should she give up her dream of a dress shop in Nashville?
Despite their mutual attraction and determined to hang onto her dream, Celia wants no part of Truett, especially when she discovers he may be the Hooded Horseman. Could she prevent him from being hunted down by the sheriff and his vigilantes? Will she find happiness at the end of the summer?
Dickerson’s tales feature wholesome relationships, making this book a good choice for teen readers. Dickerson excels as a storyteller with a carefully crafted plot, creating characters who learn the meaning of sacrifice as they adjust to life’s difficult situations. Magnolia Summer features an interracial relationship between secondary characters, acceptance despite racial differences, and a light but present faith element.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
Celia Wilcox comes to Bethel Springs to help her sister care for their grieving mother and her younger siblings. Hoping to be there only for a few months, she longs to be back in Nashville to fulfill her dream of opening a dress shop. But Celia’s mother is worse than she thought and her father left behind no assets to support the family after his death. Should she give up her dream of a dress shop in Nashville?
Despite their mutual attraction and determined to hang onto her dream, Celia wants no part of Truett, especially when she discovers he may be the Hooded Horseman. Could she prevent him from being hunted down by the sheriff and his vigilantes? Will she find happiness at the end of the summer?
Dickerson’s tales feature wholesome relationships, making this book a good choice for teen readers. Dickerson excels as a storyteller with a carefully crafted plot, creating characters who learn the meaning of sacrifice as they adjust to life’s difficult situations. Magnolia Summer features an interracial relationship between secondary characters, acceptance despite racial differences, and a light but present faith element.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
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June 7, 2025
This wasn’t Melanie Dickerson’s best work and I didn’t love it. The cover is pretty though. I found Celia to be annoying and whiny at times. I just couldn’t seem to relate or connect with her. Truett was interesting. I’m not sure exactly what I think of him. I did like that he was a doctor and all the aspects of that. I did like the mystery part and the suspense of that. There was a lot of kissing in this one and I didn’t like that Celia would lead him on and then change her mind. Her siblings were sweet and I really enjoyed them! Overall, it was an okay read and I don’t think it was the book for me.
September 5, 2018
Melanie Dickerson has created a unique cast of characters and set them in a country trying to rebuild after it was torn apart by war. To say I enjoyed this story would be an understatement. Once I started reading it, I felt like I had fallen into the world created by Ms. Dickerson. Fully immersed in this story and eagerly turning pages to see what would happen next.
An angry sheriff who can't seem to let go of the past, taking the law into his own hands and unjustly judging the innocent, as guilty and swiftly enacting his own form of judgment.
A mysterious, masked hero fighting for fair treatment of those who the majority of society sees as unworthy. He is willing to risk his own safety to see that the innocent aren't harmed.
Celia is an independent woman, ahead of her time. She longs to make a name for herself, to own her own business and stand on her own feet. She sees how being married has affected her mother, and doesn't want to set aside her dreams, to have a family.
Lessons can be learned from any one of the dynamic characters in this story. There is something for everyone in the pages of this wonderful story. A reminder that we should stand up for others, that we aren't to pass judgment and that by giving of ourselves, new dreams can be discovered.
If you enjoy reading southern historical novels, with lots of heart, a splash of adventure, and characters that will linger long after you've closed the book, then I encourage you to find a copy of this wonderful story to enjoy! I give this story 4.5 stars and I eagerly look forward to reading more stories with southern flair from Melanie Dickerson!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
An angry sheriff who can't seem to let go of the past, taking the law into his own hands and unjustly judging the innocent, as guilty and swiftly enacting his own form of judgment.
A mysterious, masked hero fighting for fair treatment of those who the majority of society sees as unworthy. He is willing to risk his own safety to see that the innocent aren't harmed.
Celia is an independent woman, ahead of her time. She longs to make a name for herself, to own her own business and stand on her own feet. She sees how being married has affected her mother, and doesn't want to set aside her dreams, to have a family.
Lessons can be learned from any one of the dynamic characters in this story. There is something for everyone in the pages of this wonderful story. A reminder that we should stand up for others, that we aren't to pass judgment and that by giving of ourselves, new dreams can be discovered.
If you enjoy reading southern historical novels, with lots of heart, a splash of adventure, and characters that will linger long after you've closed the book, then I encourage you to find a copy of this wonderful story to enjoy! I give this story 4.5 stars and I eagerly look forward to reading more stories with southern flair from Melanie Dickerson!
(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
July 19, 2018
A sweet, dangerous, and exciting story of life in the deep south fifteen years after the Civil War.
Celia strives to leave her stamp on a male-dominated world. She’s ambitious and hard-working, eager to open her own dress shop in bustling Nashville, but duty drags her to her family’s farm in Bethel Springs, Alabama where her teenage sister has been struggling to keep their family together in the wake of their father’s death. Celia, a city girl at heart, has one goal: to sell the farm that cost her father’s life so she can bring her grief-blinded mother and young siblings back to Nashville with her. However, countless roadblocks fall in her path, and she fears she’ll be stuck in Bethel Springs forever, or worse, marry a man and become as lost as her mother.
Truett is a doctor who takes on risk without a second thought. He recognizes the terrible wrongs carried out in Bethel Springs by people like Sheriff Suggs, and he takes action. Disguised as “the Hooded Horseman”, he sets out to right wrongs and free victims of tyranny. However, problems exist in his own family, and his actions begin catching up with him. Though instantly attracted to Celia, he wonders what he can he truly offer a fine, goal-driven lady like her, knowing he is a hunted man.
Both main characters overcome trials and grow from their experiences. Furthermore, the minor characters experience their own mistakes, regrets, joys, and opportunities to shine.
Though action-packed and thrilling, this story is also sweet with a powerful historical message, making it well-worth a reader’s time.
Celia strives to leave her stamp on a male-dominated world. She’s ambitious and hard-working, eager to open her own dress shop in bustling Nashville, but duty drags her to her family’s farm in Bethel Springs, Alabama where her teenage sister has been struggling to keep their family together in the wake of their father’s death. Celia, a city girl at heart, has one goal: to sell the farm that cost her father’s life so she can bring her grief-blinded mother and young siblings back to Nashville with her. However, countless roadblocks fall in her path, and she fears she’ll be stuck in Bethel Springs forever, or worse, marry a man and become as lost as her mother.
Truett is a doctor who takes on risk without a second thought. He recognizes the terrible wrongs carried out in Bethel Springs by people like Sheriff Suggs, and he takes action. Disguised as “the Hooded Horseman”, he sets out to right wrongs and free victims of tyranny. However, problems exist in his own family, and his actions begin catching up with him. Though instantly attracted to Celia, he wonders what he can he truly offer a fine, goal-driven lady like her, knowing he is a hunted man.
Both main characters overcome trials and grow from their experiences. Furthermore, the minor characters experience their own mistakes, regrets, joys, and opportunities to shine.
Though action-packed and thrilling, this story is also sweet with a powerful historical message, making it well-worth a reader’s time.
September 13, 2018
Awesome!
I loved Truett's mysterious other identity as the Hooded Horseman but I loved why he went to such lengths to save lives even more.
Cecila's fear was believable though at times I really wanted to her to just get over it. Truett loves her, why be so indecisive? But it did help with the progression of the story greatly.
I loved the ending and I will most likely read Magnolia Summer again.
I loved Truett's mysterious other identity as the Hooded Horseman but I loved why he went to such lengths to save lives even more.
Cecila's fear was believable though at times I really wanted to her to just get over it. Truett loves her, why be so indecisive? But it did help with the progression of the story greatly.
I loved the ending and I will most likely read Magnolia Summer again.
December 15, 2025
2.5 stars. Not her best work. The main male character should have dumped the female lead after she displayed her selfishness, feminism, and wishywashy indecisiveness. She does change, but, in general it’s not believable and rather silly. Too much kissing, too.
September 13, 2018
Honestly, I’ve enjoyed every Melanie Dickerson book that I have read so far. This one is American historical fiction set in 1880’s Alabama with a corrupt county sheriff and a handsome and earnest doctor for a hero. Our heroine Celia has come back to town to help her family after her father’s death. But she has plans of her own and they don’t include staying for a charming medical man. This is a quick page turner with lots of action and a great message.
September 29, 2018
3.5 Stars. Overall, it was an interesting story with a good mix of action and romance. I really liked Truett because he seemed to have such a big heart, but I didn’t connect as much with Celia’s character.
September 6, 2018
Dear Melanie Dickerson,
I’ll follow you to any genre/time period you want to write in! Another winner! I’m crossing my fingers for more books in this series.
Love, Rachel
I’ll follow you to any genre/time period you want to write in! Another winner! I’m crossing my fingers for more books in this series.
Love, Rachel
March 22, 2023
I love Melanie Dickerson's books! while this one is not my favorite; it was still an enjoyable read. It reminded me of a southern pride and prejudice. I loved Celia's sister Lizzie! She was so mature for her age, taking care of her siblings and mother after her father died. I can't imagine having that much responsibility, but Lizzie never complained. I also liked Truett, (even though his occasional "you know you like me" attitude annoyed me at times.) He stood up for what he knew was right even though he knew it could get him killed. He also put up with Celia constantly changing her mind about how she felt about him. I had kind of a hard time liking Celia because she constantly changes how she acts toward Truett. One moment she is flirting with him then she is avoiding him. I did like that she wanted to have a career. In a lot of romance books set in the past, the female just wants to get married and have a family. I liked that Celia wasn't against either of those things, but she still had a passion to open a dress shop. I also like that she doesn't change who she is to make herself more appealing to men. she has a strong personality and her own opinions, and she isn't afraid to be who she is.
sensitive content: A young woman is pregnant, and her father believes that it was by rape (it wasn't, they were both in love and get married in the end of the book. Her father wants Truett to abort the baby because the baby's father is black. (Truett obviously refuses). Celia comments that women are good for more than just servants and bed partners. She has a conversation with Almira (the woman who is pregnant) and asks if kissing is "how it starts" Almira admits that it started that way for her and James. Racism is a prevalent issue in this book and while the author is careful not to go into excruciating detail it is still disturbing. the sheriff attempts to lynch several black people (who are saved by the hooded horseman) and terrorizes many others, setting fire to one family's store. some racial slurs are used.
while this is not my favorite book by this author, I still found it to be an interesting read. due to the sensitive content, I would recommend this book for more mature readers. 3 1/2-star rating.
sensitive content: A young woman is pregnant, and her father believes that it was by rape (it wasn't, they were both in love and get married in the end of the book. Her father wants Truett to abort the baby because the baby's father is black. (Truett obviously refuses). Celia comments that women are good for more than just servants and bed partners. She has a conversation with Almira (the woman who is pregnant) and asks if kissing is "how it starts" Almira admits that it started that way for her and James. Racism is a prevalent issue in this book and while the author is careful not to go into excruciating detail it is still disturbing. the sheriff attempts to lynch several black people (who are saved by the hooded horseman) and terrorizes many others, setting fire to one family's store. some racial slurs are used.
while this is not my favorite book by this author, I still found it to be an interesting read. due to the sensitive content, I would recommend this book for more mature readers. 3 1/2-star rating.
May 1, 2019
First. I love Melanie Dickerson's writing. Although, this one was just okay. I felt in a few places frustrated with Celia as a character. She seemed very selfish in the beginning but did have a change of heart. The ending was a little abrupt as well. This one just didn't work for me.
September 5, 2018
In her novel Magnolia Summer, book on of the Southern Seasons series, author Melanie Dickerson brings to life her wonderful southern characters and setting. Taking on the challenge of writing outside her regular genre of young adult fairytales, Dickerson writes a splendid and enthralling adult sweet and clean southern historical romance novel that readers will thoroughly enjoy! As always, from cover to cover, Dickerson’s story is an absolute delight to read. Focusing on friendship, family, and love, this story is one that readers will pick up and be enthralled with the variety of characters from the tight knit family to the handsome doctor that lives next door. This is a sweet romance that readers of Dickerson’s previous work will thoroughly enjoy!
Series: Southern Seasons
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: GraceFaith Press
Publication date: September 5, 2018
Number of pages: 313
A review copy of this book was provided by the author via her street team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: Southern Seasons
Genre: historical, romance, Christian
Publisher: GraceFaith Press
Publication date: September 5, 2018
Number of pages: 313
A review copy of this book was provided by the author via her street team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2018
This is the first book of Melanie Dickerson's new series and if this first book is any indication then fans are surely in for a treat.
Celia can't believe she had to leave all her dreams behind in Nashville to come home too take care of her family. But once she gets back home, things are worse than they seem. Her family is in poverty. And the entire household is run by Celia's younger sister because their mother had gone into a depressed state since the death of their father. Running the farm seems impossible to tackle on their own and if it wasn't for the help of the community's doctor, Truett, they probably wouldn't survive.
Truett Beverly may seem like a charming doctor by day, but when the town's sheriff starts killing innocents in the name of justice, Truett transforms himself into a hooded savior. Rescuing lives is what he does both as a doctor and as his hooded alter ego. But things turn complicated when Celia returns home. He can't help but fall for her spunky attitude but his secret could cost her everything. And he's not willing to put her life at risk.
This is a thrilling novel that I highly recommend. It is clean and appropriate for ages 13+ for mild (non-graphic) violence. Absolutely no foul language or sexually explicit content.
Celia can't believe she had to leave all her dreams behind in Nashville to come home too take care of her family. But once she gets back home, things are worse than they seem. Her family is in poverty. And the entire household is run by Celia's younger sister because their mother had gone into a depressed state since the death of their father. Running the farm seems impossible to tackle on their own and if it wasn't for the help of the community's doctor, Truett, they probably wouldn't survive.
Truett Beverly may seem like a charming doctor by day, but when the town's sheriff starts killing innocents in the name of justice, Truett transforms himself into a hooded savior. Rescuing lives is what he does both as a doctor and as his hooded alter ego. But things turn complicated when Celia returns home. He can't help but fall for her spunky attitude but his secret could cost her everything. And he's not willing to put her life at risk.
This is a thrilling novel that I highly recommend. It is clean and appropriate for ages 13+ for mild (non-graphic) violence. Absolutely no foul language or sexually explicit content.
November 18, 2018
❤❤❤ Truett ❤❤❤
June 18, 2020
I read this book because of the author and not due to the content. However, the content is very relevant for right now, today. As we see tons of mobs and rioting in the streets over racial injustice, it hurts my heart and I know it hurts the heart of G-d to see people treated so poorly over the color of one's skin. When will it end?! It is sickening.
Being from the South, I understand some of the racial problems people face. I don't pretend to understand it all nor have I walked in someone else's shoes. I heard of lynching mobs when I was in high school (1995-1999). They were still practicing it during that time frame! I hated telling people where I lived for fear they would think I was racist too. This book, although not solely focused on the woman & man in love with skin color differences, was a story that I hope to be able to live out in my daily life of being a friend to all. Laying my life and comforts down for those being oppressed. Loving those who aren't being loved. Standing up for those who can't stand up for themselves. I refuse to be a mouth piece for a sect of people I only partially understand but I will preach and demonstrate the love of Yeshua our savior everywhere I go and to everyone I meet. And I will continue to learn and push for equality. It is the LEAST we can do.
The story was great. I loved Tru and his heart for mankind, not just black, not just white. Celia had a lot of my younger self built right into her. I never wanted to be "locked at home" cooking and cleaning for a man who didn't value my worth. Fortunately for Celia, she found a godly man. Unfortunately for me, I'm still waiting!!
I loved that the white woman in the relationship, Almira, with the black man, James, took responsibility for her involvement with their relationship. Growing up, pregnancies out of wedlock were everywhere. But there were times where the man was accused of rape and the woman refused to admit to her involvement out of fear from her family. This was a beautiful story of love. They did get married (hurray!!!!) and their love story would not have been allowed in my hometown today! So sad. While we can't be colorblind, we need to acknowledge our differences and praise each other for those and others strengths. If everyone in the world were like me, it'd be a DULL world!
Let's love each other's differences. That's what makes our world so BEAUTIFUL!!
Being from the South, I understand some of the racial problems people face. I don't pretend to understand it all nor have I walked in someone else's shoes. I heard of lynching mobs when I was in high school (1995-1999). They were still practicing it during that time frame! I hated telling people where I lived for fear they would think I was racist too. This book, although not solely focused on the woman & man in love with skin color differences, was a story that I hope to be able to live out in my daily life of being a friend to all. Laying my life and comforts down for those being oppressed. Loving those who aren't being loved. Standing up for those who can't stand up for themselves. I refuse to be a mouth piece for a sect of people I only partially understand but I will preach and demonstrate the love of Yeshua our savior everywhere I go and to everyone I meet. And I will continue to learn and push for equality. It is the LEAST we can do.
The story was great. I loved Tru and his heart for mankind, not just black, not just white. Celia had a lot of my younger self built right into her. I never wanted to be "locked at home" cooking and cleaning for a man who didn't value my worth. Fortunately for Celia, she found a godly man. Unfortunately for me, I'm still waiting!!
I loved that the white woman in the relationship, Almira, with the black man, James, took responsibility for her involvement with their relationship. Growing up, pregnancies out of wedlock were everywhere. But there were times where the man was accused of rape and the woman refused to admit to her involvement out of fear from her family. This was a beautiful story of love. They did get married (hurray!!!!) and their love story would not have been allowed in my hometown today! So sad. While we can't be colorblind, we need to acknowledge our differences and praise each other for those and others strengths. If everyone in the world were like me, it'd be a DULL world!
Let's love each other's differences. That's what makes our world so BEAUTIFUL!!
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