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Magic Man
Trauma. Two broken souls. And a chance at love they didn’t see coming.
Millie is a single mom who doesn’t have the time – or the trust – to date. After experiencing a violent assault as a teen, she’s determined to move on and stay focused on what’s important. But when she meets the mysterious Maxwell, Millie starts to rethink her priorities.
Maxwell is her enigmatic boss who always seems to know exactly what Millie’s thinking. No stranger to trauma himself, he’s spent his entire life alone. Until he meets his new employee, Millie.
With one look, Maxwell knows she and her daughter are his one chance at happiness. Driven and determined, he wants to give Millie everything she ever wanted, along with the love she didn’t know she needed.
Millie will have to choose between the safe world she has created and the chance to build a new life with the man of her dreams. But can she trust Maxwell with her heart or is he running a scam?
Can two individuals overcome their traumatic pasts and find love?
Don’t miss Magic Man by Ashley Hastings. If you like steamy romance with a dash of darkness, then this book will have you staying up late to finish reading Maxwell and Millie’s love story.
Find out what happens when two broken souls discover something they never knew they were looking for…
Millie is a single mom who doesn’t have the time – or the trust – to date. After experiencing a violent assault as a teen, she’s determined to move on and stay focused on what’s important. But when she meets the mysterious Maxwell, Millie starts to rethink her priorities.
Maxwell is her enigmatic boss who always seems to know exactly what Millie’s thinking. No stranger to trauma himself, he’s spent his entire life alone. Until he meets his new employee, Millie.
With one look, Maxwell knows she and her daughter are his one chance at happiness. Driven and determined, he wants to give Millie everything she ever wanted, along with the love she didn’t know she needed.
Millie will have to choose between the safe world she has created and the chance to build a new life with the man of her dreams. But can she trust Maxwell with her heart or is he running a scam?
Can two individuals overcome their traumatic pasts and find love?
Don’t miss Magic Man by Ashley Hastings. If you like steamy romance with a dash of darkness, then this book will have you staying up late to finish reading Maxwell and Millie’s love story.
Find out what happens when two broken souls discover something they never knew they were looking for…
- GenresRomanceContemporary
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2018
35 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Hastings
44 books182 followersAshley Hastings latest book is The Art of Ghosting. She writes new adult, romantic fiction with a dash of suspense and a liberal sprinkling of humor.
A lifelong Southerner, Ashley creates quirky characters in a small-town setting. When she’s not busy plotting her next book, Ashley is collecting cats and planning a future as a crazy cat lady.
Ashley’s favorite quote is "If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door," by Milton Berle. She intends to build all the doors.
Please visit Ashley on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/author100/
Or visit her website:
http://ashleyhastings.com/home/
https://twitter.com/ahastingsauthor
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IG: ashleyhastingsauthor
NL: https://www.subscribepage.com/ashley
A lifelong Southerner, Ashley creates quirky characters in a small-town setting. When she’s not busy plotting her next book, Ashley is collecting cats and planning a future as a crazy cat lady.
Ashley’s favorite quote is "If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door," by Milton Berle. She intends to build all the doors.
Please visit Ashley on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/author100/
Or visit her website:
http://ashleyhastings.com/home/
https://twitter.com/ahastingsauthor
https://www.pinterest.com/ashleyhasti...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/ashleyhas...
https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B078PV944V
IG: ashleyhastingsauthor
NL: https://www.subscribepage.com/ashley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
September 12, 2018
Heroine: 25 year old woman. Inexperienced, never been kissed.
Hero: in his 40s very experienced psychic man.
Safety: Safe. No OW/OM. Unplanned pregnancy.
I wasn’t going to touch this author’s books again after reading that train wreck of His Wife but I was very curious about this book after it was brought to my attention. This was a tad bit better than his wife book.
I admired the heroine because she loved her daughter. A daughter that was a rape product. But she never saw other than her beautiful daughter. And she was a damn good mother. The heroine was also a bit better than the heroine from his wife book.
I don’t know why authors need to have their heroines in embarrassing situations. Why? I don’t know. Really it’s like they need to humiliate their own gender.
1- her panties and bras fell off her suitcase and hero saw her undergarments. Instead of the heroine taking it in stride she was embarrassed. I would have been ok, you saw my panties and bras so? Ok, you have seen women’s underwear before? So yeah I wouldn’t have been embarrassed.
2- So this heroine doesn’t have a vibrator. She doesn’t date at all. She goes to target which by the way I didn’t know that target sells vibrators this is the first time I’ve heard of this, maybe my Target doesn’t.🤔 should I file a complaint with the local store manager?
Anyway while she was reading how to use one guess who shows up? Yep, none other than the hero, he also told her that her partner is the one who’s supposed to use it with the remote control on her. Her daughter also tells her to get one, of course the poor girl didn’t know what was it for but the heroine turned 50 shades of red.
Hero also tell the the girl that he’ll buy one as a hiring present for her mother. 🤨... I was like that’s total inappropriate. Hasn’t he heard of sexual harassment suits? She did not let him, told him that was inappropriate but he still bought it anyway without her knowing.
She has fantasies of being dominated in bed. While “her fantasies” are not hardcore she knows they’re not vanilla. They included, spankings, hitting with the belt, exhibitionism.
I liked hero’s relationship with the heroine’s kid. This hero was a lot better than the hero from his wife book.
He was actually a good hero. He didn’t want to pressure her into anything but right away he told her that he wanted her. He even talk to his friend/boss and told him that he wanted to pursue a relationship with the heroine. There were things that he did that I didn’t like, like her journal, he found it and read it, it was invasion of privacy when he read that journal. I didn’t like that he called her good girl but hey that’s a lot better than to call the women he loves a whore like the hero from book 1 did to his wife while having sex with her.
Anyway this was just ok. Will I read another books from this author? Maybe who knows.
Hero: in his 40s very experienced psychic man.
Safety: Safe. No OW/OM. Unplanned pregnancy.
I wasn’t going to touch this author’s books again after reading that train wreck of His Wife but I was very curious about this book after it was brought to my attention. This was a tad bit better than his wife book.
I admired the heroine because she loved her daughter. A daughter that was a rape product. But she never saw other than her beautiful daughter. And she was a damn good mother. The heroine was also a bit better than the heroine from his wife book.
I don’t know why authors need to have their heroines in embarrassing situations. Why? I don’t know. Really it’s like they need to humiliate their own gender.
1- her panties and bras fell off her suitcase and hero saw her undergarments. Instead of the heroine taking it in stride she was embarrassed. I would have been ok, you saw my panties and bras so? Ok, you have seen women’s underwear before? So yeah I wouldn’t have been embarrassed.
2- So this heroine doesn’t have a vibrator. She doesn’t date at all. She goes to target which by the way I didn’t know that target sells vibrators this is the first time I’ve heard of this, maybe my Target doesn’t.🤔 should I file a complaint with the local store manager?
Anyway while she was reading how to use one guess who shows up? Yep, none other than the hero, he also told her that her partner is the one who’s supposed to use it with the remote control on her. Her daughter also tells her to get one, of course the poor girl didn’t know what was it for but the heroine turned 50 shades of red.
Hero also tell the the girl that he’ll buy one as a hiring present for her mother. 🤨... I was like that’s total inappropriate. Hasn’t he heard of sexual harassment suits? She did not let him, told him that was inappropriate but he still bought it anyway without her knowing.
She has fantasies of being dominated in bed. While “her fantasies” are not hardcore she knows they’re not vanilla. They included, spankings, hitting with the belt, exhibitionism.
I liked hero’s relationship with the heroine’s kid. This hero was a lot better than the hero from his wife book.
He was actually a good hero. He didn’t want to pressure her into anything but right away he told her that he wanted her. He even talk to his friend/boss and told him that he wanted to pursue a relationship with the heroine. There were things that he did that I didn’t like, like her journal, he found it and read it, it was invasion of privacy when he read that journal. I didn’t like that he called her good girl but hey that’s a lot better than to call the women he loves a whore like the hero from book 1 did to his wife while having sex with her.
Anyway this was just ok. Will I read another books from this author? Maybe who knows.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2018
This book drew me in from the prologue and I found myself completely devouring it!
Millie is one of those heroines that I crave in a book. She’s strong, she’s independent, and she isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She also has the added effect of being the mama bear that we NEED to see in stories with child characters. I was rooting for her from the start and let’s just say her hero didn’t disappoint.
Ah, Maxwell. If you’ve read His Wife, you already know a bit about Maxwell and his selfless way of living. That’s no exception in Magic Man except we get to see more. Maxwell is prepared to do whatever he can for Millie and Ivy and he does it in a way that still allows Millie to maintain her independence. He was sweet, he was intuitive, and he had a sense of humor. Swoon!
And sweet Ivy… I love that little girl. She had a great sense of humor and the sweetest disposition. Sometimes child characters can feel forced in a story but Ivy definitely wasn’t like that. She was the best cheerleader and the best ice breaker at times!
This book had everything I wanted in it, including some insanely hot scenes and some scenes that made me grin like a fool. We got to see some characters from previous stories and some new ones that I can’t wait to read about.
Go read Magic Man- you won’t be disappointed!
Millie is one of those heroines that I crave in a book. She’s strong, she’s independent, and she isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She also has the added effect of being the mama bear that we NEED to see in stories with child characters. I was rooting for her from the start and let’s just say her hero didn’t disappoint.
Ah, Maxwell. If you’ve read His Wife, you already know a bit about Maxwell and his selfless way of living. That’s no exception in Magic Man except we get to see more. Maxwell is prepared to do whatever he can for Millie and Ivy and he does it in a way that still allows Millie to maintain her independence. He was sweet, he was intuitive, and he had a sense of humor. Swoon!
And sweet Ivy… I love that little girl. She had a great sense of humor and the sweetest disposition. Sometimes child characters can feel forced in a story but Ivy definitely wasn’t like that. She was the best cheerleader and the best ice breaker at times!
This book had everything I wanted in it, including some insanely hot scenes and some scenes that made me grin like a fool. We got to see some characters from previous stories and some new ones that I can’t wait to read about.
Go read Magic Man- you won’t be disappointed!
September 29, 2018
Millie may be young but she has been through things most would never wish on their enemies; she has done what she can to raise her daughter and that means men have been pushed to the back. Add that in to her lack of trust in the male gender anyway and it’s no wonder she’s single. Then she meets Maxwell – and the attraction is instantaneous. That doesn’t mean she’ll let her guard down though! Maxwell can’t deny that he wants Millie, even if she comes with a daughter. The hard part will be earning Millie’s trust and getting her to believe him.
I am a huge fan of this authors books so when I had a chance to review this – I didn’t even read the synopsis, just saw the author & said ‘Yes Please!’. Her heroines are sweet and lovable while her Heroes are strong and assertive. This book was a fairly quick read – I think I was able to finish it in a day – but the timing/pacing of the story was steady and mostly believable. I was shocked that Millie was willing to let Maxwell into her life as quickly as she did – but when the Hero is as persistent as Maxwell I guess it would be understandable. If you have read His Wife or Ride With Me then you will get a chance to revisit those characters. I really enjoyed the time I spent in the story and I wish there was more to it so of course I can’t wait to see what comes next.
**4 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
I am a huge fan of this authors books so when I had a chance to review this – I didn’t even read the synopsis, just saw the author & said ‘Yes Please!’. Her heroines are sweet and lovable while her Heroes are strong and assertive. This book was a fairly quick read – I think I was able to finish it in a day – but the timing/pacing of the story was steady and mostly believable. I was shocked that Millie was willing to let Maxwell into her life as quickly as she did – but when the Hero is as persistent as Maxwell I guess it would be understandable. If you have read His Wife or Ride With Me then you will get a chance to revisit those characters. I really enjoyed the time I spent in the story and I wish there was more to it so of course I can’t wait to see what comes next.
**4 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
September 10, 2018
This was delightful book that kept me intrigued throughout the entire story. Millie was a mixture of strong and vulnerable. After overcoming a traumatic past she is eager to provide a fresh start for her and her daughter. That fresh start comes in the form of Maxwell. Not only is he her new boss but he also makes her feel like a woman again. The attraction is mutual and soon these two are falling in love but not so fast. There seems to be a little mystery overclouding how perfect Maxwell is and Millie is determined to risk it all to follow the clues. This book was a fun read. There was a mix of drama, laughter and hot sex. A perfect combination. The characters were intense in their own rights but together they were unstoppable. A great story and highly recommended.
September 10, 2018
Ugh this read brought on some nostalgia, reminding me of the sweet fairytale romances of yesteryear. Umm the only exception is the naughty, holy hotness element woven all throughout this story. Yes I am still fanning myself (wink). Maxwell is our somewhat mystical, mature hero who knows how to bring on the heat. I love Millie our heroine. She represents the true definition of strength. Her desire to find her power as a woman brings on some “WOW” moments. I can’t say anymore without blushing. This author had to play the awe card by giving us Millie’s daughter Ivy, a endearing little girl who touches my heart. What a wonderful afternoon I spent delving into this story. Happy Reading!
September 19, 2018
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:
What a delightful enchanting, sexy, and perfectly sweet romance Magic Man turned out to be! I loved how this book was written. I was immediately captivated and curious about this book right from the blurb and honestly, I fell like I got a lot more than I bargained for with this stupendous story.
Magic Man was not only fun but it was so sweet and sigh worthy with cute little surprises along the way. The characters are wonderful and memorable and the storyline I just loved to pieces! I highly recommend this romance to ALL my reader friends!
Magic Man gets a SEXY AND MAGICAL FIVE SHOOTING STARS!
What a delightful enchanting, sexy, and perfectly sweet romance Magic Man turned out to be! I loved how this book was written. I was immediately captivated and curious about this book right from the blurb and honestly, I fell like I got a lot more than I bargained for with this stupendous story.
Magic Man was not only fun but it was so sweet and sigh worthy with cute little surprises along the way. The characters are wonderful and memorable and the storyline I just loved to pieces! I highly recommend this romance to ALL my reader friends!
Magic Man gets a SEXY AND MAGICAL FIVE SHOOTING STARS!
August 24, 2019
I enjoyed this heart aching romance. I liked both these characters and felt for them. I thought there was something really sweet about these two wounded individuals finding love. It was very easy to get swept up into Millie and Maxwell's story. A very special read about overcoming tragedy and daring to risk your heart after it has been broken. This is my candid, elective review.
October 26, 2018
Sometimes things happens but it’s up to you to make a hard decision for something wasn’t planned and try to get through the tough times.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
nope
September 11, 2018The blurb appeals to me but I am not sure I want to read another book from this author as her other book was so very disappointing... Someone must really really encourage me :)))
Read
July 22, 2019i mean `With one look, Maxwell knows she and her daughter are his one chance at happiness. ` seriouslly.....
December 24, 2018
Arc copy was given to me by book author through booksprout.
Magic Man by Ashley Hastings. This is also set in Peacock Alley mansion if you read "His Wife" you will have met Maxwell.
This is the story about Maxwell Millicent and her daughter ivy. I love this book, I liked this one better then the first book itself. This is less intense/mystery than Nathan's story, but who knew that Maxwell had all that hotness/ naughty hidden inside of him?!
Millie is a hard-working single mom of a nine-year-old Ivy who is smart as a whip, she is trying to keep a roof over their heads, and a little food in their tummies. Millie has had tuff times in her life. Now she is moving to peacock Manor because she is coming to work as a horse trainer, but she was not prepared for the intense reaction she would have to Maxwell (her boss) nor him to her. Theirs was a love at first sight and the chemistry was hot in between those two. Even though he is a little older or a lot
older then she is, it didn't really matter in the end, because they all got their happy ever after. Maxwell had a special ability that will shock everyone, it definitely shocked Millie .....LOL
This was a great book, it did talk about a serious subjects, rejection, bad parenting, love, hot sex, friendships, great secondary characters we get to see Nathan and Darby again, acceptance, forgiveness, and HEA.
I can't wait for Casey's story!
Way to go Ashley you hit the ball out of the park with this on!!! ❤️
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Magic Man by Ashley Hastings. This is also set in Peacock Alley mansion if you read "His Wife" you will have met Maxwell.
This is the story about Maxwell Millicent and her daughter ivy. I love this book, I liked this one better then the first book itself. This is less intense/mystery than Nathan's story, but who knew that Maxwell had all that hotness/ naughty hidden inside of him?!
Millie is a hard-working single mom of a nine-year-old Ivy who is smart as a whip, she is trying to keep a roof over their heads, and a little food in their tummies. Millie has had tuff times in her life. Now she is moving to peacock Manor because she is coming to work as a horse trainer, but she was not prepared for the intense reaction she would have to Maxwell (her boss) nor him to her. Theirs was a love at first sight and the chemistry was hot in between those two. Even though he is a little older or a lot
older then she is, it didn't really matter in the end, because they all got their happy ever after. Maxwell had a special ability that will shock everyone, it definitely shocked Millie .....LOL
This was a great book, it did talk about a serious subjects, rejection, bad parenting, love, hot sex, friendships, great secondary characters we get to see Nathan and Darby again, acceptance, forgiveness, and HEA.
I can't wait for Casey's story!
Way to go Ashley you hit the ball out of the park with this on!!! ❤️
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2018
Overcoming Heartache
Millicent is a young mother who hasn’t overcome her heartache from over nine years ago but whois determined to make a life for young daughter and herself in new surroundings. Maxwell has managed the estate that his best friend owns as well as managing his own investments. What he wants is what his friend, Nathen has, a wife and children, but is it too late for his chance? When Millicent is hired to train horses on Nathen’s property, Maxwell finds he’s gong to have to manage his sexual urges as well as his new employee. This is one sweet, unlikely romance between a woman who isn’t even 25 and is so inexperienced, she blushes at every time this 40 something year old man talks to her. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but some editing errors and an abbreviated epilogue keep this book to a 4 star rating.
Millicent is a young mother who hasn’t overcome her heartache from over nine years ago but whois determined to make a life for young daughter and herself in new surroundings. Maxwell has managed the estate that his best friend owns as well as managing his own investments. What he wants is what his friend, Nathen has, a wife and children, but is it too late for his chance? When Millicent is hired to train horses on Nathen’s property, Maxwell finds he’s gong to have to manage his sexual urges as well as his new employee. This is one sweet, unlikely romance between a woman who isn’t even 25 and is so inexperienced, she blushes at every time this 40 something year old man talks to her. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but some editing errors and an abbreviated epilogue keep this book to a 4 star rating.
October 28, 2018
A beautiful story with Millie a single mother who was raped in her teens and has had to learn how to be strong for her Daughter Ivy. Millie meets Maxwell her new boss I enjoyed the interaction between these two. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2024
⛔️(in notes)
September 27, 2019
Yet another terrific book by Ashley Hastings. I have read 3 books now by her and I cant wait to read the 4th. I love getting to know the people of Peacock, Mississippi and how they all intermingle with each other. She is an amazing writer and I can't wait to read more by her. I highly recommend her writing, especially if you like characters you can relate to and sex scenes that crank up the heat in whatever room you happen to be in at the time!
*Spoilers*
Magic Man really is a magic man, although he does have some help in his "predictions". Maxwell has been my favorite through the other books, and still is in this one. He is so attentive to Ivy, it melt my heart. His love for Millicent is clear as well. You can tell early on that he would do anything for both of them and that he would make them very happy. I was excited that Maxwell was right and that Millie was pregnant. She bugged me in that she held on to that pregnancy test as long as she did while still vacillating between I should take it and I don't want to know or have the time. You make time for that and if you don't have 5 minutes to take an important test like that, why are you going beck to school? I understand being a rape victim, so I do know that it messes with your head the rest of your life, but there is a time to fully let it go. Also, I get her privacy was violated with Maxwell reading that journal, but 1. He cared enough to find out what would make you happy and giving you what you said you wanted on those pages, and 2. At least he didn't assume it was a little girls and give it to Ivy instead, talk about really embarrassing. Taking it to get to know her better is exactly what my husband would do and if you really love him the way you say you get over stuff like that quickly. She showed her age on that one by acting very child like. Good for Maxwell for being the adult. I knew when she told him that story about Widow-maker he would go above and beyond, and get Nathan and Darby involved to ensure that horse came to be with Millie. Despite knowing it was coming, it still made me tear up because it was just the sweetest moment ever. I am happy that Maxwell got his happily ever after, he deserves it. The man never stops and for him to get a family of his own is how it should be. I am happy that my favorite character found the one and can live out his life happy. I hope he gets a boy then the family will be complete, if not they will just have to try again and have more kids, hopefully planned this time!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Spoilers*
Magic Man really is a magic man, although he does have some help in his "predictions". Maxwell has been my favorite through the other books, and still is in this one. He is so attentive to Ivy, it melt my heart. His love for Millicent is clear as well. You can tell early on that he would do anything for both of them and that he would make them very happy. I was excited that Maxwell was right and that Millie was pregnant. She bugged me in that she held on to that pregnancy test as long as she did while still vacillating between I should take it and I don't want to know or have the time. You make time for that and if you don't have 5 minutes to take an important test like that, why are you going beck to school? I understand being a rape victim, so I do know that it messes with your head the rest of your life, but there is a time to fully let it go. Also, I get her privacy was violated with Maxwell reading that journal, but 1. He cared enough to find out what would make you happy and giving you what you said you wanted on those pages, and 2. At least he didn't assume it was a little girls and give it to Ivy instead, talk about really embarrassing. Taking it to get to know her better is exactly what my husband would do and if you really love him the way you say you get over stuff like that quickly. She showed her age on that one by acting very child like. Good for Maxwell for being the adult. I knew when she told him that story about Widow-maker he would go above and beyond, and get Nathan and Darby involved to ensure that horse came to be with Millie. Despite knowing it was coming, it still made me tear up because it was just the sweetest moment ever. I am happy that Maxwell got his happily ever after, he deserves it. The man never stops and for him to get a family of his own is how it should be. I am happy that my favorite character found the one and can live out his life happy. I hope he gets a boy then the family will be complete, if not they will just have to try again and have more kids, hopefully planned this time!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2021
Enjoyable
Interesting story for sure. I liked the age gap and it’s definitely steamy for sure. But if instalove that I felt could have been a really good slow burn instead but it was an enjoyable read.
Interesting story for sure. I liked the age gap and it’s definitely steamy for sure. But if instalove that I felt could have been a really good slow burn instead but it was an enjoyable read.
September 21, 2018
Review is also here: https://iloveromanticfiction.com/2018...
Main characters: Millie Carter, single mother and horse whisperer. Maxwell – her new boss, and the man determined to make her his.
Why you should read it: This book is super cute. It’s my first Ashley Hastings read and I enjoyed the narrative – the relationship between mother and daughter was sweet, and touching. Millie is a good mum who is desperate to give her daughter the life she deserves. She’s had a rough start in life, but by sheer force of will, she’s managed to get her life in order, which is quite inspiring. The chemistry between Millie and Maxwell was a slow burner on one hand, insta-love on the other. Maxwell seems to know what he wants, whereas Millie has to try and keep her feet on the ground for her daughter’s sake, if not her own. Overall, the book had very little drama – it was a straightforward, low-angst read. Man meets woman, man gets woman, it looks a bit shaky for a moment when man does something to upset woman, man and woman reconcile.
What you may not like: As I’ve mentioned, it was a truly sweet read. So sweet, that at times I was a little nonplussed by it all. The magical elements in the book didn’t work for me 100% and the grand gesture near the end gave me toothache. It’s not the book, it’s me. I can’t do too much sentiment. I’m a cynical Brit! These reasons notwithstanding, it’s a lighthearted, cute read. If you want a break from your usual, angst-ridden, dark romances, give this short read a try.
Rating: 3/5 – likeable characters, some sexy times that were very hot, and some good ole fashioned romance!
Main characters: Millie Carter, single mother and horse whisperer. Maxwell – her new boss, and the man determined to make her his.
Why you should read it: This book is super cute. It’s my first Ashley Hastings read and I enjoyed the narrative – the relationship between mother and daughter was sweet, and touching. Millie is a good mum who is desperate to give her daughter the life she deserves. She’s had a rough start in life, but by sheer force of will, she’s managed to get her life in order, which is quite inspiring. The chemistry between Millie and Maxwell was a slow burner on one hand, insta-love on the other. Maxwell seems to know what he wants, whereas Millie has to try and keep her feet on the ground for her daughter’s sake, if not her own. Overall, the book had very little drama – it was a straightforward, low-angst read. Man meets woman, man gets woman, it looks a bit shaky for a moment when man does something to upset woman, man and woman reconcile.
What you may not like: As I’ve mentioned, it was a truly sweet read. So sweet, that at times I was a little nonplussed by it all. The magical elements in the book didn’t work for me 100% and the grand gesture near the end gave me toothache. It’s not the book, it’s me. I can’t do too much sentiment. I’m a cynical Brit! These reasons notwithstanding, it’s a lighthearted, cute read. If you want a break from your usual, angst-ridden, dark romances, give this short read a try.
Rating: 3/5 – likeable characters, some sexy times that were very hot, and some good ole fashioned romance!
January 2, 2019
I received and ARC of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
First, I felt angry, then sad, then hopeful and that was all just in reading the Prologue. The rest of the book did not disappoint, nor did it stop pulling at my emotions. Millie and her daughter have not had an easy time and arrive at Peacock Alley (from "His Wife") hoping to find a new and perhaps permanent home there. Millie has learned that she is good with horses and has applied for a job as a horse trainer for Nathan and Darby's new riding stock. Millie's immediate boss and the first person she and her daughter encounter is Maxwell, Nathan's friend and right-hand man. Millie is immediately intrigued by Maxwell, but tries to dismiss the attraction on the grounds of him being too old for her and being her boss. Can she hold out against Maxwell's charm? What about when it seems as though Maxwell is an intuitive and that he not only know things before hand, but he can also help make things happen? You will have to read the book to find out those answers and also to see what happens when a secret comes to light. I smiled, laughed, groaned, growled and cheered. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Hastings.
First, I felt angry, then sad, then hopeful and that was all just in reading the Prologue. The rest of the book did not disappoint, nor did it stop pulling at my emotions. Millie and her daughter have not had an easy time and arrive at Peacock Alley (from "His Wife") hoping to find a new and perhaps permanent home there. Millie has learned that she is good with horses and has applied for a job as a horse trainer for Nathan and Darby's new riding stock. Millie's immediate boss and the first person she and her daughter encounter is Maxwell, Nathan's friend and right-hand man. Millie is immediately intrigued by Maxwell, but tries to dismiss the attraction on the grounds of him being too old for her and being her boss. Can she hold out against Maxwell's charm? What about when it seems as though Maxwell is an intuitive and that he not only know things before hand, but he can also help make things happen? You will have to read the book to find out those answers and also to see what happens when a secret comes to light. I smiled, laughed, groaned, growled and cheered. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Hastings.
September 11, 2018
There's nothing better than finding a story that grabs you from the very first page! Ashley Hastings, where have you been in my reading world?!
Don't let the cover for Magic Man fool you. At first glance, I was intrigued by the cover because who doesn't like a gorgeous man. But let me tell you, there is so much more to this story than this cover lets on. Ashley Hastings, you are a magical story teller and I believed in your story from beginning to end. Seriously, the feels and emotions you stirred in me were unreal.
Millie was a true hero to me. The love she had for her daughter and her genuineness shone throughout her character. She'd not had an easy life, by any means, but her heart was truly in the right place. And then there was Maxwell and the mysteriousness about him. He was so intriguing and sexy. I really loved the way he took to Ivy, too.
Magic Man was a phenomenal read and I'm so glad I discovered Ashley Hastings. Her writing is so fluid and she knows just the right words to keep you engrossed. You better believe I'm checking out her other works because she's a natural storyteller. Five amazing stars.
Don't let the cover for Magic Man fool you. At first glance, I was intrigued by the cover because who doesn't like a gorgeous man. But let me tell you, there is so much more to this story than this cover lets on. Ashley Hastings, you are a magical story teller and I believed in your story from beginning to end. Seriously, the feels and emotions you stirred in me were unreal.
Millie was a true hero to me. The love she had for her daughter and her genuineness shone throughout her character. She'd not had an easy life, by any means, but her heart was truly in the right place. And then there was Maxwell and the mysteriousness about him. He was so intriguing and sexy. I really loved the way he took to Ivy, too.
Magic Man was a phenomenal read and I'm so glad I discovered Ashley Hastings. Her writing is so fluid and she knows just the right words to keep you engrossed. You better believe I'm checking out her other works because she's a natural storyteller. Five amazing stars.
October 19, 2018
Max truly was “Magic man” as he is the perfect solution to Millicent’s problems whether she is willing to admit it or not.
Being brutally assaulted at her high school resulting in a teen pregnancy, Millie has been on her own to deal with her pain. Not wanting the admit the truth to anyone but her mom, she is emotionally betrayed when her mother does nothing to support her with her emotional and physical trauma.
She ends up with her grandmother who is full of wisdom and acceptance.
I love that despite her hardship being a young single mom, her greatest joy is her nine year old daughter.
By the time she meets Max, she is used to dealing with life in her own.
Max knows that Millicent is someone special as soon as he meets her. He does everything in his power to help her and provide for her.
A bit of drama with her not so hidden journal of secret fantasies, but Max’s love never waivers, and there is the quirky fact that he does have some magic that permeates their relationship.
Well written with good pacing and a storyline line that was interesting from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Being brutally assaulted at her high school resulting in a teen pregnancy, Millie has been on her own to deal with her pain. Not wanting the admit the truth to anyone but her mom, she is emotionally betrayed when her mother does nothing to support her with her emotional and physical trauma.
She ends up with her grandmother who is full of wisdom and acceptance.
I love that despite her hardship being a young single mom, her greatest joy is her nine year old daughter.
By the time she meets Max, she is used to dealing with life in her own.
Max knows that Millicent is someone special as soon as he meets her. He does everything in his power to help her and provide for her.
A bit of drama with her not so hidden journal of secret fantasies, but Max’s love never waivers, and there is the quirky fact that he does have some magic that permeates their relationship.
Well written with good pacing and a storyline line that was interesting from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2018
Usually when I read a book, it takes me a few chapters to really settle in and know it is going to be a good read. This book grabbed my attention from the moment I started reading. This writers style and story flow are very well done. The characters in this book were fantastic. Millie has not had an easy life but instead of being a broken person that needs to be fixed she has gained strength from her trials and continues to build on that strength. She is extremely protective of her daughter Ivy, being the mamma bear that I can easily relate to and see myself in. Maxwell was a create leading man. He did everything he could to be there for Millie without being overbearing and stepping all over her independence and strength. Ivy was a fun and endearing child making it very easy to feel mamma bear when it came to her myself. The story left me feeling good. It was very sweet with a side of heat. A very nice afternoon read. Worth your time. I highly recommend that you add this one to your reading list. You won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2018
Maxwell has helped his best friend run the estate of Peacock Alley for years. They grew up together and have remained close. In all that time, not once did he fall in love, casual was it...until Millie arrived.
Millie was a single mom of Ivy- 9. She was a survivor of sexual assault and was making a life for her daughter and herself. Coming to Peacock Alley for work would bring so much more...it would bring her family.
I loved seeing Maxwell again- first introduced in the story His Wife, we get to see Mr. mystery and get a closer look at him.
This story is told from her pov. I'd read his pov if that was ever to come out. Such a hallmark instant love/attraction and something they both needed badly.
I teared up about Ivy and Maxwell's relationship. She wanted him as her dad and he wanted to be her dad- so sweet and beautiful.
I also enjoyed seeing Darby and Nathan again, and seeing the friendships developing. Darby was making friends and helping Millie too.
Is Maxwell physic? Or extra intuitive?
Millie was a single mom of Ivy- 9. She was a survivor of sexual assault and was making a life for her daughter and herself. Coming to Peacock Alley for work would bring so much more...it would bring her family.
I loved seeing Maxwell again- first introduced in the story His Wife, we get to see Mr. mystery and get a closer look at him.
This story is told from her pov. I'd read his pov if that was ever to come out. Such a hallmark instant love/attraction and something they both needed badly.
I teared up about Ivy and Maxwell's relationship. She wanted him as her dad and he wanted to be her dad- so sweet and beautiful.
I also enjoyed seeing Darby and Nathan again, and seeing the friendships developing. Darby was making friends and helping Millie too.
Is Maxwell physic? Or extra intuitive?
September 22, 2018
Millicent went through some terrible trauma as a teenager. With that, she basically was surviving and taking care of her daughter, Ivy. They need a fresh start, and hoping they can have it with this new job where she meets her boss, Maxwell.
Maxwell is a one of a kind. He knows he wants, needs Millicent and Ivy in his life. He will give them anything and everything they need. He knows that they will complete his life. But he has secrets, he knows things, very weird, odd way of knowing things.
I enjoyed this story, it was steamy, heartbreaking, some scenes gave me goosebumps. I havent' read "His Wife" the book before this one featuring the man and woman of the main house, Nathan and Darby, but I loved them in this story. Maxwell is quite the magic man. I am still intrigued on how he knows and predicts things. Interesting story. I enjoyed it. Ivy's character was really sweet and will pull you into this story.
Maxwell is a one of a kind. He knows he wants, needs Millicent and Ivy in his life. He will give them anything and everything they need. He knows that they will complete his life. But he has secrets, he knows things, very weird, odd way of knowing things.
I enjoyed this story, it was steamy, heartbreaking, some scenes gave me goosebumps. I havent' read "His Wife" the book before this one featuring the man and woman of the main house, Nathan and Darby, but I loved them in this story. Maxwell is quite the magic man. I am still intrigued on how he knows and predicts things. Interesting story. I enjoyed it. Ivy's character was really sweet and will pull you into this story.
December 15, 2018
I read this author’s first story in the series, His Wife, and loved it. I also fell a little bit in love with Maxwell in that first story and I was so glad to see his story told. I absolutely loved this book! The author has once again created emotional and engaging characters. I liked that the heroine, Millie, is strong, resourceful and independent and a great mother, and her precocious daughter, Ivy, totally steals the show. And Maxwell is just completely swoon-worthy! The chemistry between Millie and Maxwell is off the charts and the steamy sex scenes had me alternately blushing and drooling! The story flows well and is a complex and compelling blend of heartbreak, romance, humour and hope. I read it in one sitting - I couldn’t put it down. This story was truly magical and romantic. An excellent read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2018
Millie is a since mother raising her nine year old daughter. She was brutally assaulted in high school resulting in a teen pregnancy. Her mother is the only one to know but didn’t support her emotionally. She goes to live with her grandmother who does everything she can to her. From then on she does all she can for her daughter but keeps men at a distance. She moves to a new town and has a job training horses. Maxwell is in his forty’s and watching his friends estate and has to watch Millie. He’s always wanted what his friends have a wife and children but thinks that wish is gone. He sees Millie and wants her but he can see that she’s closed off but wants to help her. He knows his past has affected him but he’s willing to do anything for Millie and Ivy. His wish if for them to be a family, will it happen?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2020
OMG I laughed so much with Ivy’s comments to her Mom, Millicent. Ivy was hilarious for a nine year old. Millicent had a horrible childhood at 15 years old. Millicent and Maxwell’s storyline was great. I loved Nathan and Darby in their story and was glad that they were in Maxwell and Millicent. It was love or lust at first sight for them. I can’t wait to read Ashley’s next book. Lucy and Casey’s acceptance of Millicent and Ivy when they were new to the town of Peacock was a welcome of fresh air to see happen. Since both Maxwell and Millicent didn’t have much of a adult youth they sure made up for when they had alone time. They couldn’t get enough of each other. It was a nice touch that Maxwell included Ivy in asking her Mom to marry him. Ivy walking her Mom down the isle for the wedding was a touching moment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2020
This story tugs at your heartstrings. Millie was raped and became pregnant as a result. Her mother swept the incident under the rug, as the boy's family was wealthy and politically connected, and did not support Millie at all. Millie had a daughter, Ivy, and was a successful horse trainer. As a result of harassment at her old job, Millie and Ivy drive to Mississippi to start a new job with better pay and benefits. On arrival, they meet Maxwell who instantly likes Ivy and Millie (even though he's not sure how to act around her). Peacock is a wonderful town with friendly, colorful characters. The townspeople mention that Maxwell is psychic and at first she scoffs. This was a terrific love story with several twists. I liked it a lot.
Red Robin
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Red Robin
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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December 5, 2018
Maxwell is a mystery but I am so glad that he got a story. I absolutely loved him and Millie. I am in love with everything and everyone in Peacock. There is just something so charming about the town and the people in it.
Millie hasn’t had it easy, but she still manages to work hard for both her and her daughter, Ivy. She is able to get a fresh start in Peacock, but she didn’t expect to meet Maxwell. Maxwell tends to keep to himself, but that man is swoon worthy.
As much as I love Maxwell and Millie, Ivy honestly stole my heart. I love that we got more of the characters from the previous stories as well.
Magic Man is another fantastic story and definitely one that I would highly recommend to anyone.
P.S. I don’t salt my watermelon, but I do use chili powder.
Millie hasn’t had it easy, but she still manages to work hard for both her and her daughter, Ivy. She is able to get a fresh start in Peacock, but she didn’t expect to meet Maxwell. Maxwell tends to keep to himself, but that man is swoon worthy.
As much as I love Maxwell and Millie, Ivy honestly stole my heart. I love that we got more of the characters from the previous stories as well.
Magic Man is another fantastic story and definitely one that I would highly recommend to anyone.
P.S. I don’t salt my watermelon, but I do use chili powder.
October 20, 2018
This book was amazing. So, I planned on just reading the prologue and first few chapters before bed. Nope, I ended up until 3 a.m. having to shut down because my eyes betrayed me and would no longer focus. With the first three paragraphs of the prologue, my hand was over my mouth in shock and I was hooked. This book was gripping, intense, and so captivating. You must read this book!
Milly suffers an unimaginable trauma at a tender age of 15,, a truly horrific event that shaped her. It makes her a strong, beautiful woman. She truly captured my heart. And Maxwell captured it as well with his caring and respect of her. I loved them and all the characters. The steam factor was extremely Hot!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Milly suffers an unimaginable trauma at a tender age of 15,, a truly horrific event that shaped her. It makes her a strong, beautiful woman. She truly captured my heart. And Maxwell captured it as well with his caring and respect of her. I loved them and all the characters. The steam factor was extremely Hot!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2018
This steamy romance had me from page one. I love a good older man/younger woman romance and this is a HOT one! Millie is a horse trainer and single mom who finds herself attracted to her new boss, Maxwell. He has the uncanny ability to know what she is thinking and what she desires. Maxwell is older and more experienced but he's never found the right woman until he meets Millie and falls in love with her and her daughter. Millie, nine-year-old Ivy, and Maxwell are very likable and have great chemistry. The supporting characters are great as well. The love scenes are sensual and erotic. The story captivated me and I stayed up all night to finish it. I tried to put it down - I just couldn't!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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