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Magnolia Sound #3.5
All the Befores: A Magnolia Sound Novella
Susannah Westbrook never thought she'd find love again.
After a failed marriage, focusing on her children instead of her love life was the best thing to do. Now years later, she's content with her life. But when she meets Colton Hale, she decides that she wants to be more than just content—she's ready to take a chance on love once again.
After just a year of being together, Colton is ready to spend forever with Susannah—to give her the happily ever after she deserves. But old insecurities have a way of making a comeback when you least want them to.
Will they be able to get over all their befores for a chance at their happy ever after?
After a failed marriage, focusing on her children instead of her love life was the best thing to do. Now years later, she's content with her life. But when she meets Colton Hale, she decides that she wants to be more than just content—she's ready to take a chance on love once again.
After just a year of being together, Colton is ready to spend forever with Susannah—to give her the happily ever after she deserves. But old insecurities have a way of making a comeback when you least want them to.
Will they be able to get over all their befores for a chance at their happy ever after?
176 pages, Paperback
First published December 10, 2019
126 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Chase
142 books2,357 followersSamantha Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller of contemporary romance that’s hotter than sweet, sweeter than hot. She released her debut novel in 2011 and currently has more than seventy titles under her belt – including THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE which was a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2017! She’s a Disney enthusiast who still happily listens to 80’s rock. When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading romances, playing way too many games of Solitaire on Facebook, wearing a tiara while playing with her sassy pug Maylene…oh, and spending time with her husband of 30 years and their two sons in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
September 12, 2025
All the Befores was such an enjoyable read. Samantha Chase has a way of pulling you into her characters’ emotions and making their journey feel personal. I loved how the story balanced heartfelt moments with the kind of romance that feels both sweet and deeply rooted in real-life challenges. The chemistry was strong, and I appreciated the emotional depth that gave the book more weight than a simple love story.
That said, there were a few places where the pacing felt a little slow, and I found myself wishing certain parts would move along quicker. But overall, it was heartfelt, charming, and left me with a warm feeling at the end.
A solid 4-star read—definitely one I’d recommend to fans of contemporary romance who love stories about love, second chances, and the power of connection.
That said, there were a few places where the pacing felt a little slow, and I found myself wishing certain parts would move along quicker. But overall, it was heartfelt, charming, and left me with a warm feeling at the end.
A solid 4-star read—definitely one I’d recommend to fans of contemporary romance who love stories about love, second chances, and the power of connection.
December 11, 2019
Magnolia Sound makes me happy. Everything about it has always appealed to me. Every story in this series has been a great read. This one was no different. Altho it’s a novella, it was still full of charm and heart, perfectly developed and very satisfying. Susannah and Colton both got a second chance to get love right with this one and it was just
*happy sigh*
If you’re new to Samantha Chase, this is a great story to start with but be prepared, you’ll want to read all about Magnolia Sound from beginning #trust
If you’re new to Samantha Chase, this is a great story to start with but be prepared, you’ll want to read all about Magnolia Sound from beginning #trust
December 8, 2019
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 10, 2019
Susannah Westbrook never thought she'd find love again.
After a failed marriage, focusing on her children instead of her love life was the best thing to do. Now years later, she's content with her life. But when she meets Colton Hale, she decides that she wants to be more than just content—she's ready to take a chance on love once again.
After just a year of being together, Colton is ready to spend forever with Susannah—to give her the happily ever after she deserves. But old insecurities have a way of making a comeback when you least want them to.
Will they be able to get over all their befores for a chance at their happy ever after?
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: ALL THE BEFORES is instalment 3.5 in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook family. This is forty year old contractor Colton Hale, and forty-five year old B&B owner Susannah Westbrook. ALL THE BEFORES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: The late Ezekiel Coleman, one of the original founding members of Magnolia Cove, left each of his heirs something different, a business or business plan, in an effort to bring together his dysfunction family.
Told from several third person perspectives including Susannah and Colton ALL THE BEFORES follows divorcee and single mother of two grown children, Susannah Westbrook, as she struggles moving on with her life. Ezekiel Coleman left the family homestead to Susannah, and our heroine would find purpose in Magnolia Cove turning the homestead into a B&B. Now that her children were falling in love and having babies of their own, Susannah battled memories of the past including the failure of her first marriage, a failure that she continues to blame on herself. Nine months of dating, and having fallen in love, Colton Hale asked Susannah Westbrook for her hand in marriage, but Susannah would panic fearing failing all over again. What ensues is the breakdown of Susannah and Colton’s relationship as Susannah struggles with issues of self-esteem, insecurities, and another possible failure.
The secondary and supporting characters include Susannah’s children Mallory and her fiancé Jake, Sam (and Shelby), as well as their cousin Mason (and Scarlet), and Mason’s mother Georgia Bishop.
ALL THE BEFORES is a quick read; a story of family and friendships, love and happily ever after. Susannah and Colton are a mature couple, having previous relationships that ended in divorce. Colton is hoping to move forward by marrying the woman he loves but Susannah struggles with taking their relationship to the next level and beyond. The premise is heartfelt; the romance is passionate and sweet; the $ex scenes are mostly implied; the characters are energetic and colorful.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 10, 2019
Susannah Westbrook never thought she'd find love again.
After a failed marriage, focusing on her children instead of her love life was the best thing to do. Now years later, she's content with her life. But when she meets Colton Hale, she decides that she wants to be more than just content—she's ready to take a chance on love once again.
After just a year of being together, Colton is ready to spend forever with Susannah—to give her the happily ever after she deserves. But old insecurities have a way of making a comeback when you least want them to.
Will they be able to get over all their befores for a chance at their happy ever after?
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: ALL THE BEFORES is instalment 3.5 in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult MAGNOLIA SOUND romance series focusing on the Westbrook family. This is forty year old contractor Colton Hale, and forty-five year old B&B owner Susannah Westbrook. ALL THE BEFORES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: The late Ezekiel Coleman, one of the original founding members of Magnolia Cove, left each of his heirs something different, a business or business plan, in an effort to bring together his dysfunction family.
Told from several third person perspectives including Susannah and Colton ALL THE BEFORES follows divorcee and single mother of two grown children, Susannah Westbrook, as she struggles moving on with her life. Ezekiel Coleman left the family homestead to Susannah, and our heroine would find purpose in Magnolia Cove turning the homestead into a B&B. Now that her children were falling in love and having babies of their own, Susannah battled memories of the past including the failure of her first marriage, a failure that she continues to blame on herself. Nine months of dating, and having fallen in love, Colton Hale asked Susannah Westbrook for her hand in marriage, but Susannah would panic fearing failing all over again. What ensues is the breakdown of Susannah and Colton’s relationship as Susannah struggles with issues of self-esteem, insecurities, and another possible failure.
The secondary and supporting characters include Susannah’s children Mallory and her fiancé Jake, Sam (and Shelby), as well as their cousin Mason (and Scarlet), and Mason’s mother Georgia Bishop.
ALL THE BEFORES is a quick read; a story of family and friendships, love and happily ever after. Susannah and Colton are a mature couple, having previous relationships that ended in divorce. Colton is hoping to move forward by marrying the woman he loves but Susannah struggles with taking their relationship to the next level and beyond. The premise is heartfelt; the romance is passionate and sweet; the $ex scenes are mostly implied; the characters are energetic and colorful.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
April 11, 2021
Thank you, Samantha Chase!!! I freaking loved this book for oh so many reasons. When I first read the blurb, I could not wait for it to hit my Kindle. As an experienced participant of the older generation, I LOVED seeing a book written about an older couple. In most of the romance novels I read I imagine my younger self, or even my son falling in love. This time I could almost see myself falling in love again. For this, Ms. Chase, I thank you.
OK, on to my review. I have been reading this series from the very beginning and have absolutely loved each and every one so far. But, this one, from what I have said above, has become my favorite in this series.
Susannah Westbrook is a freaking heroine in my book!! She has my utmost respect. Raising two phenomenal children, twins, into adulthood by herself without any help from the deadbeat sperm donor, who I personally think, should have been dropped off in the middle of the ocean without a lifejacket (bitter much). Sorry/not sorry, for that rant. Because of this poor excuse for a man, Susannah has built up many insecurities in herself. So, when Colton Hale comes along and shows some ser-i-ous attention to Susannah and then askes her to marry him, Susannah tells him no. She tells him “no” because she feels that she is not good enough for him. Can I PLEEEEEASE go punch her ex in the mouth? PLEEEEEASE!!!
I loved seeing all of the characters from the previous books. I loved seeing them rally around Susannah and Colton during Susannah’s aversion to marriage. Oh my, Sam’s idea, at least that is the way I took it…. FABULOUS!! Sorry Ladies, if you want to find out what that idea is… You will need to read this phenomenal book.
I was gifted with a copy of this book for my opinion and my love of reading wonderful books such as this one. ANNNND you can bet your/my last dollar, that I will be purchasing the Audible version so I can listen to this fabulous book over and over again.
Thank you for reading my review. I know you will love this book as much as I have, so what are you waiting for, go purchase it from your favorite vendor and start reading.
Good night, and have a great day 😊
OK, on to my review. I have been reading this series from the very beginning and have absolutely loved each and every one so far. But, this one, from what I have said above, has become my favorite in this series.
Susannah Westbrook is a freaking heroine in my book!! She has my utmost respect. Raising two phenomenal children, twins, into adulthood by herself without any help from the deadbeat sperm donor, who I personally think, should have been dropped off in the middle of the ocean without a lifejacket (bitter much). Sorry/not sorry, for that rant. Because of this poor excuse for a man, Susannah has built up many insecurities in herself. So, when Colton Hale comes along and shows some ser-i-ous attention to Susannah and then askes her to marry him, Susannah tells him no. She tells him “no” because she feels that she is not good enough for him. Can I PLEEEEEASE go punch her ex in the mouth? PLEEEEEASE!!!
I loved seeing all of the characters from the previous books. I loved seeing them rally around Susannah and Colton during Susannah’s aversion to marriage. Oh my, Sam’s idea, at least that is the way I took it…. FABULOUS!! Sorry Ladies, if you want to find out what that idea is… You will need to read this phenomenal book.
I was gifted with a copy of this book for my opinion and my love of reading wonderful books such as this one. ANNNND you can bet your/my last dollar, that I will be purchasing the Audible version so I can listen to this fabulous book over and over again.
Thank you for reading my review. I know you will love this book as much as I have, so what are you waiting for, go purchase it from your favorite vendor and start reading.
Good night, and have a great day 😊
December 8, 2019
Colton and Susannah prove that there is no age limit for love. Chase takes a peek inside of a couple of bruised hearts and finds a few life lessons along the way. Susannah is right on the cusp of having it all. After years of regrets and learning what it means to be a mother. Susannah has found the man of her dreams and a life she adores. So why do her past mistakes continue to haunt her after all these years? Chase can make any story into a revelation. All the Befores takes on a couple with a bit more life miles on their emotions, but no less heart. Susannah and Colton remind us that love is not always beautiful, but it's the most rewarding experience of our life. If we're willing to do the work. Magnolia Sound is the perfect destination to fall in love.
December 10, 2019
5 PERFECTION STARS!! Love this book so much!!! Samantha Chase gives us readers perfection again with her writing. Susannah and Colton's story will touch all your emotion buttons and have you flipping pages. I read this book in one sitting and I know you will too.
July 29, 2022
He {Colton} shook his head again. "No, everything you're saying-all of your fears-that was a long time ago. That was before. You can't let the words of a man who walked away from the amazing family he had rule your thoughts, Susannah. He doesn't even deserve consideration of anything you do or say because he was wrong. So very wrong. You are everything that is good and sweet and pure in this world! I am honored that you think so highly of me-that you think I deserve so much. But all I want-all I need-is you. Don't you get that?"
Oh my heart with this novella! I seriously loved Susannah's story and glad Samantha Chase gave her story and a happy ending at that because all she had gone through was just heartbreaking and kinda hit home for me in seeing it in my mom's own marriage where my dad was a narcissist and verbal, emotional, mental, and even sexually abusive to me and another sister of me and my 6 siblings for a couple of months one time now almost eleven years ago, and was a master manipulator and liar and even justified his bad behavior and feelings on others' to have them feel bad as well. I could tell all sorts of stories but with the two of them being divorced since April of 2019 which was the best thing ever to happen, and with him in prison for ten years as of January of 2020, I still feel for my mom and wish she, like Susannah, could see what an incredible mom she is, but also a woman in general and I'm not just saying that because she's my mom, but I saw the insecurities Susannah had about her in this story in my mom here and there and the advice and words from Colton, Sam, and Mallory are things that's hard to tell my own mom from so much abuse (not physical thank goodness happened, just the others mentioned) and yet, one day I pray she can open up and find someone who she could someday remarry and yet my heart leaped with joy in Susannah's story and glad she had found someone who could love her the way she is and see passed her physical flaws and/or insecurities she may have had and saw the real woman she really was. Overall, this was a tender story of trust, finding love again after so many years and of hope and I loved it in many ways possible.
Oh my heart with this novella! I seriously loved Susannah's story and glad Samantha Chase gave her story and a happy ending at that because all she had gone through was just heartbreaking and kinda hit home for me in seeing it in my mom's own marriage where my dad was a narcissist and verbal, emotional, mental, and even sexually abusive to me and another sister of me and my 6 siblings for a couple of months one time now almost eleven years ago, and was a master manipulator and liar and even justified his bad behavior and feelings on others' to have them feel bad as well. I could tell all sorts of stories but with the two of them being divorced since April of 2019 which was the best thing ever to happen, and with him in prison for ten years as of January of 2020, I still feel for my mom and wish she, like Susannah, could see what an incredible mom she is, but also a woman in general and I'm not just saying that because she's my mom, but I saw the insecurities Susannah had about her in this story in my mom here and there and the advice and words from Colton, Sam, and Mallory are things that's hard to tell my own mom from so much abuse (not physical thank goodness happened, just the others mentioned) and yet, one day I pray she can open up and find someone who she could someday remarry and yet my heart leaped with joy in Susannah's story and glad she had found someone who could love her the way she is and see passed her physical flaws and/or insecurities she may have had and saw the real woman she really was. Overall, this was a tender story of trust, finding love again after so many years and of hope and I loved it in many ways possible.
November 27, 2019
Holy partridge in a pear tree, who knew the chemistry and angst between a forty-something couple could be so delightful and delicious? Susannah Westbrook and Colton Hale have been dating for a year, in the midst of both of Susannah's children finding their soul mates, renovating the home her father left her and opening a new B&B in Magnolia Sound. Colton is ready to take the next step, but Susannah surprises him with her hesitancy.
I’ve loved all the stories about Ezekiel Westbrook's grandchildren finding love, but there's something extra special about Susannah and Colt’s story. Maybe it's the finding your soul mate as more mature adults, or the fact that fear and uncertainty can lead to growth and happiness at any age, but this story completely captivated my heart.
Add in holiday decorations and festivities, the first guests in the B&B and the sound of wedding bells, and this story has a little of everything to please any romantic heart. This is a fairly quick read, but Susannah and Colton's story is overflowing with heart and home and holidays. I’ll bet my eggnog this is one you won’t want to miss, so get your copy today.
I’ve loved all the stories about Ezekiel Westbrook's grandchildren finding love, but there's something extra special about Susannah and Colt’s story. Maybe it's the finding your soul mate as more mature adults, or the fact that fear and uncertainty can lead to growth and happiness at any age, but this story completely captivated my heart.
Add in holiday decorations and festivities, the first guests in the B&B and the sound of wedding bells, and this story has a little of everything to please any romantic heart. This is a fairly quick read, but Susannah and Colton's story is overflowing with heart and home and holidays. I’ll bet my eggnog this is one you won’t want to miss, so get your copy today.
December 5, 2019
5 Star Review of All The Befores (Magnolia Sound #3.5) by Samantha Chase
Although only a short story Samantha Chase has certainly packed a lot in to this book. I love this series series and I was excited that Susannah Westbrook and Colton Hale we’re getting their own book.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend that you also one click the other books in the series as they are just as enjoyable.
Susannah has been happily focusing on raising her children after a failed marriage and now that they are grown, she finds herself ready to take another chance on love with Colton.
Can Susannah and Colton make their relationship work, or is it destined to be destroyed by the past and Susannah’s insecurities?
I love Colton’s unfailing love and support of Susannah and how he is always there to build her up and love her; a swoon worthy man whomI fell hard and fast for.
All The Befores is a romantic, love story with mature characters which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was heartwarming and I was so happy to be back in Magnolia Sound.
Although only a short story Samantha Chase has certainly packed a lot in to this book. I love this series series and I was excited that Susannah Westbrook and Colton Hale we’re getting their own book.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend that you also one click the other books in the series as they are just as enjoyable.
Susannah has been happily focusing on raising her children after a failed marriage and now that they are grown, she finds herself ready to take another chance on love with Colton.
Can Susannah and Colton make their relationship work, or is it destined to be destroyed by the past and Susannah’s insecurities?
I love Colton’s unfailing love and support of Susannah and how he is always there to build her up and love her; a swoon worthy man whomI fell hard and fast for.
All The Befores is a romantic, love story with mature characters which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was heartwarming and I was so happy to be back in Magnolia Sound.
December 11, 2019
Ever since her devastating divorce Susannah had no interest in romance or relationships and did everything she could to ensure that her children had all the attention and love that she could give them. She couldn’t be happier that they have found their happy ever afters and are starting the next phase in her life but that didn’t mean she was prepared to have the same thing for herself.
Colton hasn’t had the best experiences when it comes to love but he knows that Susannah is his other half. He is beyond hurt when she refuses his marriage proposal but when help comes from the most unlikely of sources it gives him the strength to prove to Susannah that she is all he will ever want or need and that the reward of what they could have together is worth the risk to their hearts.
After what she has endured Susannah deserves to be happy and Colton is exactly what she needs. This is a heartwarming story about love and family, and it is always fun to catch up with the other characters that we know and love from this series.
Colton hasn’t had the best experiences when it comes to love but he knows that Susannah is his other half. He is beyond hurt when she refuses his marriage proposal but when help comes from the most unlikely of sources it gives him the strength to prove to Susannah that she is all he will ever want or need and that the reward of what they could have together is worth the risk to their hearts.
After what she has endured Susannah deserves to be happy and Colton is exactly what she needs. This is a heartwarming story about love and family, and it is always fun to catch up with the other characters that we know and love from this series.
December 3, 2019
Susannah whole world revolves around her children. She is single mom whose ex did a real number on her. She never really started dating till her kids were in college. It took years for Colton to get up the courage to approach Susannah. After one date he knew she was one for him. All Colton wants and need is Susannah. Susannah cannot get her ex's words out of her head. She is scared to start a new marriage. Her kids are moving on and she is set to open a B and B. Susannah had one failed marriage and she feels she was a terrible wife. Colton is her rock. With his help she comes to realize she is amazing woman. She did a wonderful job with her children and she deserves to have love in her life. I loved how Susannah's sister is softening toward life. This is great series and very much looking forward to Dean and Courtney's story.
December 12, 2019
Oh my! This one has all the feels and then add on some more to send it over the top. Susannah comes home to the Inn and finds Mallory but all she wants is to be alone...Colton has proposed marriage and she turned him down. This is the start of this emotional novella. She had a very bad first marriage and was left emotionally abused by it with many insecurities but once she has time and distance and her family (including Georgia) around her she finally gets some perspective and soon is willing to take that leap. Now, with Jake and Mallory getting married on New Years when do they? That was the special part but I'm not telling that one, read this for yourself, it was special!
**Received this ARC for review**
**Received this ARC for review**
July 31, 2020
Susannah has been there watch her children grow up, she has dealt with the death of grandfather and the rebuilding of the plantation house into a bed and breakfast. But with all of those milestones she has always put the family first, so when Colton pops the question, she ends up walking away as to not rock the boat. Will her children allow her to be second fiddle to their lives? Will she realize that she is entitled to her own HEA? With each and every book in the series, Susannah has kept everything together and it was a joy to watch her finally get her moment in the sunshine and she did it with grace and finesse. Truly another fabulous book in the Magnolia Sound series.
December 10, 2019
All the Befores gives me hope after divorce! I loved finally getting to read Susannah's story, and her reasoning behind the choices she makes. Colton on the other hand, needs to be cloned so I can have one of my own. He's such a kind, patient and loving person, that you can't help but fall for him. This was the perfect tale of finding your happily ever after, no matter what you've been through, and at any age. I loved it!
December 6, 2019
Great story!! I really enjoyed reading Susannah and Colton’s story. Two people in their early 40’s finding love after disappointments from the past gave me hopeful and light hearted feeling. This was a quick read but all the feels are there for a great story. It also has a bit of holiday magic that just adds to the romance of the story.
December 10, 2019
All the Befores
This book has it all. First loves, second chances and happily ever afters. Most importantly it has family and love.
This book has it all. First loves, second chances and happily ever afters. Most importantly it has family and love.
March 9, 2020
Idk if I like this series or not but I’m gonna keep on pushing through this series.
March 4, 2020
All The Befores by Samantha Chase is a novella in the Magnolia Sound series. I really loved this story, it was filled with all the bittersweet and poignant moments I have come to love and expect in this series. That is truly what makes this an incredible story. Once again we get caught up on the lives of Mallory and Jake, Sam and Shelby, and Malcolm and Scarlett, it feels like coming home again. I love how the title in mentioned in the story in the most marvelous way. All The Befores is the story of Susannah Westbrook, mother of Mallory and Sam, and Colton "Colt" Hale, construction worker at Coleman Construction. In his will, Zeke Coleman left Susannah his house, and she had always talked to her grandfather about turning his house into a bed and breakfast. Zeke never wanted to make any changes to his house. The story starts with Colt cleaning up his house after a proposal gone wrong. While making all the necessary adaptations to Zeke's house to turn into Susannah's bed and breakfast, Colt and Susannah began a romance. Now that the work on the house is complete, Colt thought it was the appropriate time to propose. Unfortunately, Susannah still lives with all the scars from the verbal abuse from her ex-husband, Mark. Susannah has always put her children first, and as a single mother never dated. Now that Mallory and Sam are grown, she isn't sure that anyone will love her because of all the demeaning things that Mark had said to her. Susannah's bed and breakfast will not meet the final permit requirements, so Colt decides that he wants to finish what he started and takes on the project himself. Colt has his own skeletons in his closet, with an ex-wife who fell out of love with him. He questions how will he ever know if this won't repeat itself. While making the adjustments, Colt once again falls into bed with Susannah. All the Befores was a wonderful story showing that love conquers all the hurdles placed before it. I loved the bittersweet moments, and the surprise plot twists. I love the advice that Susannah gave to Georgia. Once again with All the Befores, Samantha Chase shows that she is an amazing storyteller. Glad that everyone got their happy endings.
August 19, 2021
It was a quick read in terms of length, but definitely slow in terms of storyline. This couple bored me and I could’ve done without my pit stop into their relationship. And let’s just talk about that dual wedding in which vows were exchanged for daughter and son in law, then for herself. Thumbs down to that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2020
Average.
This was unfortunately an average read for me. It just seemed to go on forever and not much happened. I was about to give up on this author but the preview for the next book looks quite good, so I’m going to give that one a go.
This was unfortunately an average read for me. It just seemed to go on forever and not much happened. I was about to give up on this author but the preview for the next book looks quite good, so I’m going to give that one a go.
October 22, 2020
Great romantic story!
October 28, 2020
Seem like a good book, but it failed to captivate me. I skip and skimmed and decided to give up.
November 25, 2020
A sweet novella at 150ish pages in this series! Excited to get caught up on this series.
December 23, 2022
Happily Ever After
I loved this novella for Susannah and Colton. Goes to show you can get your Happily Ever After no matter your age.
I loved this novella for Susannah and Colton. Goes to show you can get your Happily Ever After no matter your age.
June 2, 2023
Loved having a story about a woman who thinks her love life is long over!
July 23, 2025
Avoid this book they skip the love story of main couple and it's too risque, sexual activity should not be discussed between mother and daughter. Lacked romance .
December 10, 2019
Samantha Chase is the very essence of what a great writer is all about. The stories she writes are beyond amazing. I personally feel as if she knows what every reader is looking for in a book. She creates magic every time she puts pen to paper.
In All the Before we get the story I personally have been waiting for. Susannah and Colton's story. We have had Mallory and Sam's stories and have gotten to know her a little throughout the Magnolia Sound series. Now it is time for her story and what a phenomenal story it is. I really adored this story. This was a story about a woman who sacrificed everything to raise her children as a single mother. Now as her children are grown and embarking on their own journeys she is able to focus on her life. Susannah and Colton come together to work on her bed and breakfast plan. Once working together things really heat up.
I loved their story. I felt like "Wow this is amazing to read." I loved reading Susannah's story. I felt so connected to her. I felt as if I could relate somewhat to some of her struggles. It felt really good to read about the struggles that most middle-aged women have after having kids and raising them. I loved that I could relate to her struggles and felt as if I were there instead of reading a book. All the Befores had all the feels. I felt my heart swoon and felt myself catching my breath and even felt my heart break a bit for Susannah. The connection that Cole and Susannah have is beyond amazing. I love the way he loves her. I love the connection that she has with Sam and Mallory(her children). There is an amazing connection Mallory and Susannah have. Their connection is beyond that of just a mother and daughter. The relationship they have is one that I hope to have with my daughter when she is grown up. I even loved the way Susannah dealt with Georgia(her cousin). I must admit I've gotten to know Georgia through the previous books and I must say she can be hard to handle but Susannah dealt with and did a great job. I read this entire story in one sitting and I must say it is my favorite Magnolia Sound book thus far. I love every aspect of All the Befores. Samantha Chase did a phenomenal job writing this story and I feel it was perfect. I loved getting to see that even middle age couples can have romance and passion. Thank you Samantha Chase for such an amazing story.
In All the Before we get the story I personally have been waiting for. Susannah and Colton's story. We have had Mallory and Sam's stories and have gotten to know her a little throughout the Magnolia Sound series. Now it is time for her story and what a phenomenal story it is. I really adored this story. This was a story about a woman who sacrificed everything to raise her children as a single mother. Now as her children are grown and embarking on their own journeys she is able to focus on her life. Susannah and Colton come together to work on her bed and breakfast plan. Once working together things really heat up.
I loved their story. I felt like "Wow this is amazing to read." I loved reading Susannah's story. I felt so connected to her. I felt as if I could relate somewhat to some of her struggles. It felt really good to read about the struggles that most middle-aged women have after having kids and raising them. I loved that I could relate to her struggles and felt as if I were there instead of reading a book. All the Befores had all the feels. I felt my heart swoon and felt myself catching my breath and even felt my heart break a bit for Susannah. The connection that Cole and Susannah have is beyond amazing. I love the way he loves her. I love the connection that she has with Sam and Mallory(her children). There is an amazing connection Mallory and Susannah have. Their connection is beyond that of just a mother and daughter. The relationship they have is one that I hope to have with my daughter when she is grown up. I even loved the way Susannah dealt with Georgia(her cousin). I must admit I've gotten to know Georgia through the previous books and I must say she can be hard to handle but Susannah dealt with and did a great job. I read this entire story in one sitting and I must say it is my favorite Magnolia Sound book thus far. I love every aspect of All the Befores. Samantha Chase did a phenomenal job writing this story and I feel it was perfect. I loved getting to see that even middle age couples can have romance and passion. Thank you Samantha Chase for such an amazing story.
December 10, 2019
Oh to be Susannah ...
What a fabulous book. My favorite Magnolia Sound to date (and that is saying a lot!)
So great to see Susannah and Colton's story take life ... and what a life it is. They're a bit more mature than most of the author's stories, which is great for for many of us who fit into that age bracket. Both Susannah and Colton are easily relatable. They’ve each had previous marriages and have grown to appreciate the friendship and romantic aspect of their relationship
Against the backdrop of Mallory and Sam getting married, Colton is ready to take things to the next level. He had a marriage that really didn’t work and he is certain that Susannah is it for him. Her Inn is in shape and almost ready to open and she's on top of things. The story pulled me in immediately when Colton's surprise proposal isn't received well and things go about as far south as they could. Susannah’s insecurities, carryovers from her previous marriage to a real jerk, has given her heaps of doubts about being in permanent relationships.
This book kept me engaged from the start ... it's so tightly woven that I forgot it was a novella. Familiar characters Sam, Mallory, Shelby, and Jake join forces to pull them back together. This book has love, family, self-doubts from past heart-break, and a vision of love. The way the author brought out the past colliding with the present for each of the characters had me feeling their pain and hoping for the future. As soon as I finished I started an immediate re-read.
Ms. Chase is among my favorite writers and this book is a perfect example. The characters are realistic and the storyline tugs at your heart. You'll end the book wishing for more news (fingers crossed for bonus chapters or a major part of another book) featuring Susannah and Colton. Here’s hoping that Ms. Chase is hard at work at the next book!
Download this book now! If it's your first Magnolia Sound book, don't worry. The writing is a standalone with characters that will make you smile when you see them in other books! If it’s not your first Magnolia Sound book, you’ll feel right at home with familiar characters and sights. Either way, you’re in for a treat, for sure!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
What a fabulous book. My favorite Magnolia Sound to date (and that is saying a lot!)
So great to see Susannah and Colton's story take life ... and what a life it is. They're a bit more mature than most of the author's stories, which is great for for many of us who fit into that age bracket. Both Susannah and Colton are easily relatable. They’ve each had previous marriages and have grown to appreciate the friendship and romantic aspect of their relationship
Against the backdrop of Mallory and Sam getting married, Colton is ready to take things to the next level. He had a marriage that really didn’t work and he is certain that Susannah is it for him. Her Inn is in shape and almost ready to open and she's on top of things. The story pulled me in immediately when Colton's surprise proposal isn't received well and things go about as far south as they could. Susannah’s insecurities, carryovers from her previous marriage to a real jerk, has given her heaps of doubts about being in permanent relationships.
This book kept me engaged from the start ... it's so tightly woven that I forgot it was a novella. Familiar characters Sam, Mallory, Shelby, and Jake join forces to pull them back together. This book has love, family, self-doubts from past heart-break, and a vision of love. The way the author brought out the past colliding with the present for each of the characters had me feeling their pain and hoping for the future. As soon as I finished I started an immediate re-read.
Ms. Chase is among my favorite writers and this book is a perfect example. The characters are realistic and the storyline tugs at your heart. You'll end the book wishing for more news (fingers crossed for bonus chapters or a major part of another book) featuring Susannah and Colton. Here’s hoping that Ms. Chase is hard at work at the next book!
Download this book now! If it's your first Magnolia Sound book, don't worry. The writing is a standalone with characters that will make you smile when you see them in other books! If it’s not your first Magnolia Sound book, you’ll feel right at home with familiar characters and sights. Either way, you’re in for a treat, for sure!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
November 29, 2019
All The Befores
Magnolia Sound #3.5
Samantha Chase
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is all time favourite Magnolia Sound story. Susannah and Colton have played such large roles throughout the series, I was stoked for them to get not only their own story but happy ever after. As an older couple the story dynamic was perfect, after reading so many books of people in their 20’s and 30’s, Samantha has created a beautiful story, with new perspective and I adored it.
After seeing Mallory and Sam find their happy ever afters it is time for Susannah Westbrook to finally take hers. Watching her twins find the love of their lives, and opening her own inn everything is just about perfect- she just needs hers, and it is right in front of her. But with a failed marriage under her belt, raising twins on her own and moving back to Magnolia Sound to create the inn her grandfather left her, she has reservations, and not the dinner type.
Colton Hale has had his own life failings, but moving to Magnolia Sound was one of his best. He has great friends, a great job and sees the most beautiful woman everyday while rebuilding the inn, Susannah owns. It’s not long before their feelings make themselves known and the attraction grows. But with a choice to ask her to marry him, Colton is thrown when she says no. He knows her issues, Hell he has his own marriage track record but he knows his forever lies with her. Never fear, enter Sam and Mallory to save the day. Instead of the kids turning against him, they help him see what she’s to scared to…. There is life left for Susannah she just needs to take the leap.
While only a novella, this story is jammed packed of all the Magnolia Sound favourites, of course, Sam and Shelby, Mallory and Jake. This was perfect with the spotlight on Susannah and Colton and their flaws and faults, but their will to work for their forever perfection made All The Befores the best story yet.
Magnolia Sound #3.5
Samantha Chase
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is all time favourite Magnolia Sound story. Susannah and Colton have played such large roles throughout the series, I was stoked for them to get not only their own story but happy ever after. As an older couple the story dynamic was perfect, after reading so many books of people in their 20’s and 30’s, Samantha has created a beautiful story, with new perspective and I adored it.
After seeing Mallory and Sam find their happy ever afters it is time for Susannah Westbrook to finally take hers. Watching her twins find the love of their lives, and opening her own inn everything is just about perfect- she just needs hers, and it is right in front of her. But with a failed marriage under her belt, raising twins on her own and moving back to Magnolia Sound to create the inn her grandfather left her, she has reservations, and not the dinner type.
Colton Hale has had his own life failings, but moving to Magnolia Sound was one of his best. He has great friends, a great job and sees the most beautiful woman everyday while rebuilding the inn, Susannah owns. It’s not long before their feelings make themselves known and the attraction grows. But with a choice to ask her to marry him, Colton is thrown when she says no. He knows her issues, Hell he has his own marriage track record but he knows his forever lies with her. Never fear, enter Sam and Mallory to save the day. Instead of the kids turning against him, they help him see what she’s to scared to…. There is life left for Susannah she just needs to take the leap.
While only a novella, this story is jammed packed of all the Magnolia Sound favourites, of course, Sam and Shelby, Mallory and Jake. This was perfect with the spotlight on Susannah and Colton and their flaws and faults, but their will to work for their forever perfection made All The Befores the best story yet.
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