Magnolia Road

Granite Harbor #3

by J. Lynn Bailey

On the outside, Bryce Hayes is satisfied with the structure of her life, her demanding career, and series of no-strings-attached relationships, but her brother bounces in and out of rehab, her mother thinks she can beat her son’s addiction, and her father is simply doing what he can to keep a semblance of “normal”. When Bryce’s father, Congressman Hayes, orders her to Granite Harbor, Maine, due to a string of threats to their family coming from an unidentifiable source, she doesn’t expect Ethan Casey, the sexy soldier who slept with her, then walked out, without so much as a goodbye, to be her landlord.

Ethan’s past is riddled with chaos, bullets, and loud noise. After returning to his small town after the war, he’s determined to get back to his roots.

˃˃˃ Peace, quiet, and working as a game warden for the Maine Warden Service sounds right as rain.

But with Bryce in Granite Harbor, staying in his house on Magnolia Road, Ethan can’t stop thinking about his future - and that includes Bryce. But to make things right with the love of his life, he’ll have to open old wounds and risk losing her forever.

˃˃˃ An emotional read with a beautiful ending.

Fans of Devney Perry, Kristen Ashley, Harper Sloan with love the first installment of the The Granite Harbor Series.

Note to readers, each book can be read as a stand alone.

Scroll up and grab a copy of Magnolia Road today.

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2019

About the author

J. Lynn is a bestselling author, mother, and wife. When she isn't running between soccer practices, working on another school fundraiser, or chasing a new puppy, you can probably find her holed up in her writing room feverishly working on her next novel.

Reviews

[Megan✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Regrets are for those who refuse change.”

J. Lynn Bailey has once again masterfully created another brilliant story to add to the powerful and addictive Granite Harbor series. Magnolia Road was a highly anticipated read for me for the simple fact that I know the quality storytelling Bailey showcases and the very real and raw emotion she always conveys, which has the ability to grab hold of me and not let go until the very last word is read. I cannot stress enough the immense talent in each and every word and J. Lynn Bailey is and will always be a one click author for me; I am in awe of everything she creates.

Ethan is a beautiful broken man who constantly has to fight the demons of his military past and he has returned home to Granite Harbor to soak in the solitude that only this town can provide. I was drawn to Ethan instantly and felt his pain through the very vivid depiction of the story he shared. He feels so much pain deep down to his core and unfortunately his past and pain have followed him.

Bryce, like Ethan, has her own personal issues to try to work through. Her family drama and the importance of keeping up appearances have led her to Granite Harbor and the last person she expected to see as her landlord is a former one night stand, Ethan.

“Forgive one another. Give love. Don’t live in fear; it’s a waste of measured breaths that we don’t get too many of.”

It was apparent from the moment Ethan and Bryce came into contact with one another again that there was a definite spark between them. I absolutely loved the push and pull between the two as it added to the anticipation of them both giving in to their true feelings and finally surrendering. The slow burning build up had me waiting with baited breath and the anticipation was thrilling without the necessity of too much drama and angst. It was just the perfect balance for me.

J. Lynn Bailey’s newest release Magnolia Road was just the most perfect suspenseful, steamy read and a beautiful love story. It was such a joy to read two tortured souls get a second chance together, learn to heal one another and let true love shine. I love Granite Harbor, having read all the books in the series, and it has become my home away from home. I cannot recommend this story enough and if you love your small town, suspenseful, second chance love stories then you should definitely one click this gem.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to J. Lynn Bailey for providing an ARC for an honest review.

The last few weeks have been filled with me getting lost in Granite Harbor, Maine as I caught up on J. Lynn Bailey's books Peony Red, Violet Ugly, and now Magnolia Road. It's been a long time since I've voraciously read a series and enjoyed sticking with the books throughout in rapid succession. Though each book in this series has enough similarities to make each book feel comfortable, the characters and their experiences vary with each book, making it as exciting and as unique as the last. I'm always eager to see where the following book will go and what suspense I will attempt to unravel as a reader.

With each book, I'm even more impressed with J. Lynn Bailey's ability to add suspense to a romantic storyline. I'm kept guessing what will happen until the very end, and always rewarded with something I didn't see coming. One of my favorite added elements is the touch of paranormal that occasionally shows up from time to time. This reminds me of a Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks in the way it's sprinkled into the stories. It's never scary but always adds a heartwarming moment and a few goosebumps to boot. I love it!

I especially loved Ethan in this story. I find myself drawn to modern military books or military romance occasionally and found this to be a well-done rendition of this trope. I was able to understand Ethan's issues through his memories and his friendship with Rodney. This is exactly what helped draw Bryce in and conversely kept her at an arms distance. The slow burn between these two characters was perfectly believable and well-written. I couldn't wait for the next moment this pair would be together, simply to witness the tension between them and see how they would react. 

Like all J. Lynn Bailey books, Magnolia Road covered important topics, featured life lessons, and many words of wisdom - all things I've come to adore about this author. Her books never fail to make me feel and I always come away encouraged and ready to take on anything in my own life. Particularly with Magnolia Road, I was able to understand certain issues I haven't had much sympathy for in the past. Through these characters, I was able to let go of a certain hardness I had in my thoughts regarding addiction. I love when a book is able to give me a new perspective as a reader - this is truly how books enable readers to live more than our one simple life. I'm grateful J. Lynn Bailey never fails to tear down my preconceived notions and move me to understand the world around me more clearly.

"Because life is easier lived if it isn't your own. A make-believe world is just that. You can walk away at any time."

As always, it was great to catch up with the characters of the past novels I've grown to love as well. I can't wait to see where this series will continue to go, with Aaron and Lyn's journey to come next. I have no doubt I will tear through their story as I have with each of the prior books in the Granite Harbor Series.

[Missy Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Just make sure you pick up the pieces, so the evidence is gone."

J. Lynn Bailey perfected another small town romance we all wish we could move to. I'd pack my bags today and head up the East Coast to visit Level Grounds or Rick's Pharmacy. Magnolia Road delivers all the feels we love while keeping your mind speculating what's about to happen with each turn. The giddy feeling you get on a first date, first kiss or the excitement of a new relationship is a feeling I kept through this entire book. I miss Granite Harbor already. Please take me back!

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you J. Lynn Bailey!

First of all: look at the cover! I think that all the covers in the Granite Harbor series are so beautiful, I want all the books on my shelf!

Now let’s talk about the book. Magnolia Road is the third book in the Granite Harbor series and tells the story of Bryce and Ethan. Every book in the Granite Harbor series can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading them all because they’re so good!

I kiss her and see today, tomorrow, and the rest of our days together. I kiss her and see how perfect two imperfect people are together. I kiss her and see vivid images of color. The truth is, I am at my best when I’m with Bryce. She is love. My love.

Magnolia Road is so well written and fast paced. I couldn’t get enough of Bryce and Ethan’s story, I wanted to know what happened to them in the past and how their future was going to be.

Magnolia Road is a slow burn Romance book, and that’s just perfect. I don’t always like the instant love stories because they don’t always seem that ‘real’. Besides the romance, J. Lynn Bailey portrays real issues in her books and that’s something I really like. It’s not just a romance, but so much more.

Magnolia Road was an emotional book and just so beautiful. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat, and I cannot wait for the fourth and final book!

[talon smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Maybe,” I whisper, “maybe faith wins.”

I just cannot say enough good things about J. Lynn Bailey. Every time I try, they are never good enough to adequately explain how well she has perfected her craft. So here goes nothing...

The slow burn in this story was just how I like it. Consistent, well put together, and not overly dramatic. Although these two characters have met before- for us it feels like their first time with everything they go through. I really loved the author's approach and delicate care with these both Bryce and Ethan. Taking her time with them and not rushing them into something that I, as a reader, would find unbelievable really made all of this story work for me. Which brings me to the next thing that I really adored about Magnolia Road.

"I kiss her and see today, tomorrow, and the rest of our days together. I kiss her and see how perfect two imperfect people are together. I kiss her and see vivid images of color. The truth is, I am at my best when I’m with Bryce. She is love. My love."

I love that her characters have believable and real issues separating their love from each other. As I state above- it wasn't over dramatic. It was real life, pressing issues that make these people act and do these things that they do. It wasn't added to create this overly-drawn out story and I didn't roll my eyes a single time (I call that win). She was delicate with it, and for that I was thankful. The characters within this story all showed growth and closure. When I am reading a book this is one of the MAIN and most important things that I look for. J Lynn Bailey nailed it.

The mystery and suspense that these books have held has blown me away each time. J Lynn Bailey's balance of romance/suspense cannot be bragged about enough. Magnolia Road didn't lack in that department either. You can tell that J Lynn Bailey took extra special care of her plotting in this story and that pays off tremendously.

"And this makes my heart shatter into a million tiny pieces that fall to the cement walkway like feathers. If I’m responsible for the storm, I’m also the maker of the wind that moves the storm. Until he rights himself, we can’t work, and I’ll just have to accept that."

The more books I read by this author, the better they get. I can't get enough of this small town series that we have so graciously been gifted. Who am I kidding- I can't get enough of J Lynn Bailey period. 

[Tera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think J. Lynn Bailey has her own special place in my heart. It's like she KNOWS I adore fabulous characters because the Granite Harbor series is packed FULL of them. Magnolia Road is no exception. The heroine in this book is Alex's literary agent and best friend, Bryce, and the hero is game warden, Ethan, both of whom we met in Peony Red and saw briefly in Violet Ugly.

Although this could be considered a second chance romance, it doesn't have that same feel to it as some of the other stories I've read with that trope. The love between Ethan and Bryce is patient. It was built up slowly, delicately and like a present tied up in a nice little bow that you didn't want to just rip open. You wanted to save it and unfold each page of the story slowly as to savor getting to the ending.

Where J. Lynn Bailey really got me with this one is how much I could relate to these characters and I truly feel that was due to the amazing secondary characters that were brought into the story as well. They were flawed. They were important. They were lovable. And they all added another layer to the story which I really loved.

Magnolia Road definitely has more of a romantic suspense feel like Peony Red which was exciting because the author is so incredibly good at it. It's not overwhelming. It's not dull. It's just perfectly balanced with the romance built throughout the story.

Granite Harbor is one of my most favorite places to escape to. I look forward to every story and literally devour each book leaving me satisfied, but yet, still always wanting more. Magnolia Road is fabulous. It will standalone, but I feel like reading the books in order would add a little bit more to the series for people to enjoy. Regardless, if you haven't read a J. Lynn Bailey book yet, jump right in with this one.

[Amy Conley · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I received an ARC for my honest review.**

“Regrets are for those who refuse to change.”
“Forgiveness is a tool we do not use enough.”
“Don’t live in fear; it’s a waste of measured breaths that we don’t get too many of.”

Happy New Year, New You to us from J. Lynn Bailey!

Magnolia Road, the third in the Granite Harbor series, continues to deliver sexy, emotional, small-town wish fulfillment, but also real societal issues, philosophy, and broken heroes.

First the wish fulfillment -- who wouldn’t want to be a gorgeous redhead who READS FOR A LIVING?! Bryce’s wit, strength, confidence, and morality make her an easy heroine to love. The chapters taking turns between Bryce and Ethan allow the reader to see into both of their minds, what they want -- each other -- and the real forces that stand in their way.

I love that her characters have real issues that separate their love. I, for one, have read too many stories where characters pull away from each other because of dumb scripts in their head about beauty or pride or some other bulls@*# they’ve invented, and their love has to overcome those stories. That’s real enough; the stories in our heads can keep us from happiness.

But I also don’t know many real people’s lives who aren’t touched by mental health, addiction, PTSD, and familial estrangement. Bailey’s Granite Harbor series doesn’t shy away from these realistic themes, but instead has the characters powering through with love. And not the love of red roses and romance, but the love of getting therapy, accepting that we’re all broken, and telling the truth -- even when it hurts.

Speaking of, one of the delightful strengths of Bailey’s writing is the philosophy that always bleeds through. Magnolia Road carries the philosophies of two strong characters, and their love that settles a veteran’s PTSD.

The new year is the perfect time to be reminded that we’re all broken, but we can love each other anyway. I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for this honest review. My chief beef (see what I did there??) with the book is that, personally, I’m Team Milton’s Chili forever.

[Misty · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Regrets are for those who refuse to change."

I will say I don't regret picking up this author and plowing through this series. I can't get enough of these characters or the small town of Granite Harbor. A charming town and its people that wraps you up in a warm hug and doesn't let you go. And I will tell you I don't ever want it to let me go.

J. Lynn Bailey has perfected the slow burn in this series and Magnolia Road may have been the slowest burn of them all. Nothing ever felt rushed between the two characters which made their love feel real. Made it known to the world it would stand the test of time. The real life issues both faced only added to the story and made it all that more believable. The best thing about this author is she doesn't force or rush her characters into things, she makes them work for it whether together or individually. I will be here forever if this is the style of writing this author keeps. It's the best kind of story.

The author touched on some very deep, dark but very realistic issues in this book that many authors won't touch and I applaud her for that. She did it with grace and a huge understanding of their deep impact. The PTSD and addiction in this book showed just how powerful love can be. Love from the people around and in the end love for yourself. She showed us that even the most broken deserved to be loved.

"I think we all deserve to be the happiness on book covers, calendar pages, postcards."

I think we all deserve the stories that J. Lynn Bailey brings to us. I can't wait to read the next Granite Harbor book and well anything this author brings us after that.

[Mari · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Very strong and emotional story. I have to mention there are possible addiction triggers here before anything else. It's more on how it affects those around those who have it though and how it affects relationships. I love these covers I must say all three are pretty colorful and vivid and they tie in to the plot.

This story like the previous has a second chance feel to it. Bryce and Ethan have their fair share of secrets they hide from the world. More so Ethan who has his walls so high, after his stint in the Marines changed him. PTSD like symptoms that he can't shake and why he thinks he can't get close with people. Bryce is determined to breakthrough that and show him through understanding and being there.

A little suspense in always a part of this series so I expected no different, it played into why Bryce was at Granite Harbor. It also helped move things along in the stalemate Bryce and Ethan came to when his issues became to much. But I appreciated they overcame it all together, nothing easy and worked for. The little touch of whimsy added a little brightness at the end too.

The author knows how to draw people in and create interesting plots. Fleshed out characters full of sadness sometimes but find a way to get around it. I don't know if this is the last of the series but it sort of wrapped things up. I really enjoyed the setting and diversity of the heroes career. Worth checking out.

*** ARC provided for an honest review ***

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a little annoyed with myself for reading these books out of order. No, you don't have to read them in order, but there are appearances by characters from old stories.
First of all, let's talk about the covers of these books. I am a sucker for a pretty cover and this whole series has beautiful covers. Simple, but perfect.
Now, the book. Bryce has been ordered to Granite Harbor, Maine while her father, a congressman, sorts through some threats their family has been getting. She does not expect to have her landlord to be Ethan, who wham bammed and didn't even thank her after their night together. To say she's hurt is an understatement. Ethan knows he's not cut out to be the man Bryce needs him to be so he cut his losses, but one look at her has him thinking and wanting to be that better guy.

This book is real and touches on a number of serious subjects. It hits all the marks keeping you interested throughout and wanting more of this story.

[Libby Charlton · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review
Another great story by J. Lynn Bailey! This is currently my favorite book in the series - I loved how raw and real the love between Bryce and Ethan felt. Both characters struggle with real life issues - Bailey does a great job telling these stories and keeping them real and relatable. This story had it all and drew me right in, this is definitely a must read!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so good! It was a well written story that restored my faith in romance novels. It wasn’t overly anything. It was a great mix of everything I love about reading. J. Lynn Bailey’s writing was refreshing and stood out in an industry that sometimes feels over saturated. Bryce and Ethan’s story was realistic. And their timeline was very well paced. I appreciate the work she put in to make this book as awesome as it was.

[Giselle]

Review copies available for requests!! [closed - other review opportunities found here]

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this steamy and suspenseful book. Phew...I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely love these characters whom I’d met earlier in this small town series. Ethan will break your heart with his good looks and broken, broody demeanor; and Bryce has just enough sass, boldness and beauty to turn his world upside down. This is a rollercoaster ride of emotional suspense as Ethan works through his military demons and Bryce is forced to face her past. My fingers have blisters from turning the pages so fast!

I have loved this series and these small-town characters (HOT Game Wardens!) of Granite Harbor since reading Peony Red. But I have to say that Ethan weaved a special place in my heart. He is beautifully broken. He is cocky and confident, yet hurting so badly on the inside. The demons that have followed him from serving in the Middle East are buried deep, and the pain that he carries is so evident and heavy. He has so much love to give, but is so guarded at the same time and does not feel that he is worthy of love. My heart broke for this man.

The chemistry between Ethan & Bryce was apparent from the moment they were thrust back together. Bryce was so determined not to let Ethan under her skin, and the push and pull of the two of them had me screaming at times. I loved the moments when they both caved, and when they challenged each other. Ethan's protective nature over Bryce was swoon-worthy, and the way his character developed throughout the book had tears running down my cheeks. I loved how much he reminisced about those closest to him in his past and hung on to their advice.

"Regrets are for those who refuse change."

This quote applied to both Ethan & Bryce, and J Lynn Bailey did a beautiful job weaving this life lesson throughout the story. This book is suspenseful, sweet and steamy. You will love the secondary characters, and the story will keep you glued to the pages. If you love small town second chance romances, then I highly recommend this book! Well done once again J. Lynn Bailey!!

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stellar read by J. Lynn Bailey! Magnolia Road is the very emotional story of Bryce Hayes and Ethan Casey. Even though this is part of the Granite Harbor series, this can be read as a standalone.

Bryce temporarily relocates to Granite Harbor when her Congressman father is being sent threatening emails. Granite Harbor is a place familiar to her, her best friend Alex lives there and she had visited her and her family quite a bit so she was actually looking forward to the move and change of pace of Los Angeles. Unfortunately, the only downside was that Ethan Casey was also there. Ethan and Bryce had a one-night stand that broke Bryce’s heart and she was not really ready to see him again, especially when they saw each other again a few months later and he basically ignored her. Unknown to Bryce, Ethan is still suffering from his days in combat. He genuinely feels he has no right to be in any kind of relationship, especially with someone like Bryce. But now that she is in town and he happens to be her new landlord, he can’t seem to stay away from her. She brings him such a sense of peace.

Their journey towards their happily ever after is complex, there were so many times Bryce just wanted to give up on them, but something about Ethan kept pulling her back. And once the danger comes to Granite Harbor and targets Bryce, Ethan no longer had any doubts of his feelings towards her.

I loved everything about this book! So much emotions, strength and a few heart pounding moments. An awesome read. I highly recommend it.

[Brandy Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a good story it drew me in from the start I wanted to see what was going on with the characters and how they would find a happy ending .This would be the first book that I've read by J. Lynn Bailey and I'm excited to see what she has written and what she'll write . From what I've read some of the characters from previous stories by the author are mentioned . Magnolia road can be read as a standalone I wasn't lost there may be some minor spoilers from the previous stories but over all it felt like it can be read as a standlaone . I really enjoyed that characters they were interesting with pasts of their own that would be reveled to one another . Can't wait to feel my kindle with stories by the author .
copy provided for honest review 
****************************************
hero=9 heroine=9 secondary characters=9
Chemistry=10 steam=6 romance=6
humor=3 darkness level=3 action=3 mystery=4
enjoyment=8 angst=3 story line=9 Story ending=9
character development=10 pacing=10
cover=10 Blurb =10 Stars =4
Is this part of a series =yes
Can it be read as a standalone =yes
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book= yes
would I read future books by this author= yes

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnolia Road by J.Lynn Bailey is the third book in the Granite Harbor series. The previous books are Peony Red , Eli and Alex's heartwrenching story and my favorite read in this series;and Violet Ugly, Ryan and Merit's story.
Every book is about another couple and can easily be read as a standalone. There are a few cross-overs, you'll meet characters from previous books and I recommend to read the books in order.

Bryce Hayes is a literary agent, in her thirties, the daughter of a politican and about to move to Granite Harbor, temporary. She's a good woman, caring and doesn't give up easily. Alex, her best friend and client lives here just like her ons Ethan.
Ethan Casey is a complicated man. He's ex-military and suffers deeply. He works as a Game Warden, but his issues don't let him have a relationship. To top it off he's the landlord to the one woman he left behind. He's haunted by his demons and tries everything to keep Bryce away. Easier said than done. Take one battered hero, one determined heroine, mix it up with a captivating story, scorching hot chemeistry and excellent writing and you get a great read that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning till finish. I recommend the book and give 4,5 stars.

[Alana Pucci · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I bought the book in paperback when it went live because I had to have it!
Per my headline, "oh my goodness," this Granite Harbor series addition may be my new fave!! I could feel the attraction between Bryce and Ethan through the pages!! They were raw and real and relatable!! Fabulous job, J. Lynn Bailey!!
She touched on some very real issues in this one, drug abuse and ptsd. There was some really intense moments that reveal some of the hidden issues of drug addiction and ptsd and how they often go hand in hand. "Fear of emotions," is a very scary and very real symptom of ptsd. This hits home for me as my husband suffered from this after the military. Emotions just shut off. All of them. It takes therapy and lots of patience from loved ones. Self medicating is a huge issue and is used often to numb the pain.
Very well done!! This story has everything! Romance, real life issues, suspense, the perfect little town, and some great steamy scenes. I can hardly wait for the 4th book!! It's a must read. Enjoy!

[Jessica Renfro · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY REVIEW: Once I started reading this book I couldn't put it down. My husband came into the room and turned off the lights because it was bed time, not once but TWICE! I even took the book with me to work so I could read it on my lunch break. I enjoyed the small town love story, but inside that love story there were struggles including PTSD and Addition. I felt something for each character and enjoyed the build up of how it ended. I like how I knew something about each character and when a new one was introduced it was not too little information about the person there was just the right amount and how they intertwine with the main characters. My most favorite part of this book is when Ethan is with James and James's says "You can't control life, Ethan. The only things you can control are your attitudes and your actions. Everything else, you're powerless. You can't control how love works. You aren't that powerful" . That part is so real, truthful and powerful to me and hopefully others. Which is why I typed it out in my review. I do recommended reading this book and I know that this is the third book in her series and plan on reading the others soon.

[Gladys Avilés · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The storm that rages in your eyes, is it just for me?” I nervously wait for his answer.
“It’s always just for you, Bryce.”

Every time J Lynn Bailey posts about a new book she is writing, I get excited and happy and count the days until it’s release, because this lady writes GOLD!
Granite Harbor is one of my favorite series EVER!
Every book is brilliant! She’s developed a family, amazing characters, fantastic plots, a funny and sweet town you can’t help but fall in love with.
Magnolia Road is book 4 in the series, it tells us the story of Ethan and Bryce. I’ve loved her since book 1 and couldn’t wait to read about her. Ethan is the perfect book boyfriend, he is sexy, sweet, twin, marine... They connect with each other and the story is very emotional!
Their journey consumed me, I enjoyed every minute and it was impossible to put it down. I felt every word, every tear, every smile.
My favorite quote: “Regrets are for those who refuse to change.”

I can’t recommend it enough. Absolute reading bliss!

[Sharrice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bryce is on the run. Someone is threatening her and her family. Going to visit some friends in a town where she'll be safe. She knows going back to that town will bring her face-to-face with the man she can't forget; Ethan.

Ethan has been struggling since he left the service. He's been stuck and living in his own personal hell since he retired. He doesn't know how to open up to his friends, his family, or the girl who captured his heart one night; Bryce. When she comes back to town to stay in his rental property he knows he should stay far away, but he doesn't want to.

Bryce and Ethan are thrown together time and time again. Bryce wants nothing more than to love Ethan. Ethan wants nothing more than to push Bryce away.

Magnolia Road wasn't my favorite read by far this year. It was a bit slow and dragged in some areas.

Magnolia Road was an interesting and emotional story. I liked that it was about choosing to love and to live. The characters had an interesting story to tell.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received an ARC for an honest review*

4.5 stars for Magnolia Road!! Another great read by J Lynn Bailey! If you haven’t started this series (all standalones) you need to right now! Magnolia Road is the 3rd book and focuses on Bryce and Ethan. Bryce living in California relocates to Maine where Ethan works as a game warden. They have a brief past that nobody is aware of but with both living in the same state leads to them fighting feelings. I love the small town and all the characters this series has as well as the suspense the author throws in there too. Magnolia Road isn’t just about Bryce and Ethan but also their pasts and what they are hiding. There are real life issues they are dealing with that might be triggers for some. Issues that destroy families, issues that destroy a person, issues that destroy relationships but issues affecting so many people today. Even though it had some serious heavy subject matter Magnolia Road is a wonderful book!

[Doni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnolia Road is an excellent book!
I adored the story, & thoroughly enjoyed reading it! It is the first book I've read by
J. Lynn Bailey, & it won't be my last.
It's a touching, steamy, & emotional story.
Bryce, has chosen to stay in Granite Harbor, Maine, till it's safe. Her family
has had threats made against them.
Bryce's best friend, Alex & family live there.
It is also where Ethan is.
Bryce & Ethan, had one beautiful night,
till he disappears the next morning.
Ethan, is now a game warden, in Granite Harbor. His family & friends can see how Ethan has changed. But they don't know how tortured his soul is, from everything
he saw & did as a Marine.
When Bryce & Ethan see each other
again, she's angry. Slowly they become
friends. But, there is no denying Bryce
& Ethan's intense chemistry.
This story really pulled all my heartstrings.
It is a well-written book,
that has beautifully developed characters
& has some incredible & touching scenes.
A MUST READ FOR EVERYONE!!!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Bryce needs to leave California as her Congressman father is worried about the threats he has been receiving, she chooses Granite Harbor to be near her best friend Alex. The last thing she wanted or expected was to be renting a home from Ethan, the man who left without another word after they spent the night together.

Although Ethan has left his military career behind him the memories still haunt him. He now works for the Warden Service and was surprised to find out who his new tenant was. He has feelings for her, but he believes she deserves a much better man than him.

This is an emotional story of healing, love and second chances. I really enjoyed both these characters as Ethan only wants to protect Bryce even if it is from himself however Bryce is strong and is not about to walk away from the man she loves.

[Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review

I loved this story. I loved getting to meet these characters. I loved getting to see the inner workings of Bryce and Ethan. Bryce is dealing the heartache of a one night stand that left her wanting more. But what she doesn't understand is that Ethan has problems. He is dealing with things that he neither wants to take about or deal with. Ethan has PTSD and flashbacks of his time in combat.

This story is deep and relatable. I love these characters. I loved how hard they fought. I love how real this story felt. I wanted to push these two together and make them see how much they needed each other, but in the end, they found their way. I loved this book from start to finish. J. Lynn Bailey is an amazing author and I can't wait to read more from her.

[Alphas Do It Better Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

A beautiful story full of heartache, laughter, love, and a this constant underlying message of destiny. Bryce and Ethan cross paths because she needs a place to lay low, and Granite Harbor is it. He owns the house on Magnolia Road, and once Bryce realizes this their paths cannot be uncrossed. Throughout this story we follow two people who are have been broken in different ways due to their life circumstances, but who find something they need in one another. We have r pleasure of being on their journey of discovery, discovering their own inner strengths as well as the strength they can have when they use one another. There are moments of sadness, moments of joy, and moments of danger, but in the end you get a happily ever after that is so very fulfilling!

Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog

[Siddhi Nigam · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review

Ethan and Bryce were all the feeeelss!
Magnolia Road, the third book in the Granite Harbor series is the story of Game Warden Ethan Casey and Literary Agent Bryce Hayes.
The book is another Second Chance romance by Bailey and I am in love with it! I love second chance romance and this one definitely has all the feels, the character development is strong with a strong heroine and a broken hero is made all the more beautiful by their insane level of chemistry!

A romantic suspense with a strong grip on the realness of the characters makes it for a great book which is easily added to your re-read bundle!

Can't wait for the next one inthe series! Definitely recommend this one!

[A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I would have known that this book was part of a series before starting it. You do not need to read the other books to understand this one. However, after reading this one, I immediately sought out the others and cannot wait to start them!

Magnolia Road is captivating! I will mention that it hits on some heavy topics: PTSD and drug abuse. Some of the parts were very intense but I could not stop reading.

Ethan and Bryce have incredible chemistry and I just loved reading about both of them. I found them both to be incredibly relatable which is sometimes difficult for me to find in books. This is definitely a book (and series) to add to your TBR list!

Reviewed by: Brianne M.

[Brianne Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I would have known that this book was part of a series before starting it. You do not need to read the other books to understand this one. However, after reading this one, I immediately sought out the others and cannot wait to start them!

Magnolia Road is captivating! I will mention that it hits on some heavy topics: PTSD and drug abuse. Some of the parts were very intense but I could not stop reading.

Ethan and Bryce have incredible chemistry and I just loved reading about both of them. I found them both to be incredibly relatable which is sometimes difficult for me to find in books. This is definitely a book (and series) to add to your TBR list!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first time in reading this author with the story catching my eye. I do love a good one that has suspense and hot mixed together as this one did. The suspense and danger gives it a edge with the chemistry that builds when they get together. Bryce and Ethan carry us readers in this one with life giving a curve that gives a jolt. This author was able to capture my attention and keep it giving me characters that I sank into. This one also knew how to pull on the emotional strings taking us with hits. If I was to see more from this author I would read it.