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Love at First Sight #3
Steal My Magnolia
Life lesson from Grady Buchanan: If you're going to fall in love with the untouchable girl in town, don't hire her as your only employee.
Even after he bungled the interview with Magnolia MacIntyre, he knew better than to hire her. The list of why it's a bad idea is a long one.
Her father could ruin his fledgling business.
She is completely overqualified.
And he’s attracted to her.
What does Grady do? He offers her the job.
Magnolia knew better than to take it. Normally, she'd make the safe choice, and working for Grady is anything but.
He's new in town--and entirely too charming.
Her dad will be furious.
She hates the outdoors and working for an outdoor adventure company is not exactly the right fit.
What does she do? She says yes on the spot.
Grady and Magnolia will have to prove to everyone in their life that they're not crazy. And prove to each other that the list of why it's a bad idea should be tossed out the window.
For these two opposites, sometimes doing the wrong thing is exactly right.
Even after he bungled the interview with Magnolia MacIntyre, he knew better than to hire her. The list of why it's a bad idea is a long one.
Her father could ruin his fledgling business.
She is completely overqualified.
And he’s attracted to her.
What does Grady do? He offers her the job.
Magnolia knew better than to take it. Normally, she'd make the safe choice, and working for Grady is anything but.
He's new in town--and entirely too charming.
Her dad will be furious.
She hates the outdoors and working for an outdoor adventure company is not exactly the right fit.
What does she do? She says yes on the spot.
Grady and Magnolia will have to prove to everyone in their life that they're not crazy. And prove to each other that the list of why it's a bad idea should be tossed out the window.
For these two opposites, sometimes doing the wrong thing is exactly right.
318 pages, Paperback
First published February 9, 2021
565 people are currently reading
3669 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 288 reviews
February 9, 2021
I had the immense pleasure of being able to sensitivity read Magnolia’s character for the lovely, Karla Sorensen. I love when authors want to write “color” or diverse characters in their books, and especially when they do it responsibly. That being said, let’s talk about Grady & Magnolia.
Magnolia, a biracial black woman that grew up in the south, Green Valley TN to be exact, was such a beautiful character. Not just physically, but had a tenacious strong spirit to match. She was the perfect blend of her father and mother, and I loved how “in love” they still were after so many years. It meant a lot that Karla didn’t shy away from real life issues that occur when your skin is brown, especially if you live in the south.
This is a love story that started out as a woman needing a change, and to be able to spread her wings and fly. To be her own person, and not just her daddy’s daughter that works for him. I love that moment when Grady saw Magnolia coming up the sidewalk and into his office looking for work. Little did he know that his life would change forever. I appreciated getting to watch Grady work through his own hurts and disappointments that he experienced. These characters both had different backgrounds, but really had a mutual understanding of each other that was beautiful.
I loved falling in love right along with Grady & Magnolia. I felt their friendship grow with every chapter into something exquisitely beautiful, unique and so them. This book is so special to me, and I’m thankful to have had a part in it. Thank you for the opportunity, Karla.
Magnolia, a biracial black woman that grew up in the south, Green Valley TN to be exact, was such a beautiful character. Not just physically, but had a tenacious strong spirit to match. She was the perfect blend of her father and mother, and I loved how “in love” they still were after so many years. It meant a lot that Karla didn’t shy away from real life issues that occur when your skin is brown, especially if you live in the south.
This is a love story that started out as a woman needing a change, and to be able to spread her wings and fly. To be her own person, and not just her daddy’s daughter that works for him. I love that moment when Grady saw Magnolia coming up the sidewalk and into his office looking for work. Little did he know that his life would change forever. I appreciated getting to watch Grady work through his own hurts and disappointments that he experienced. These characters both had different backgrounds, but really had a mutual understanding of each other that was beautiful.
I loved falling in love right along with Grady & Magnolia. I felt their friendship grow with every chapter into something exquisitely beautiful, unique and so them. This book is so special to me, and I’m thankful to have had a part in it. Thank you for the opportunity, Karla.
October 26, 2022
When I picked up this book, I know I am going to like it. Just like love at first sight. Now, I never experiencing love at the first sight, but I imagine it will be like what Miss Sorensen describes in Steal My Magnolia. I wish I had my own Grady.
I always a fan of Miss Sorensen. Her story telling is sweet, romantic and tender. All combined with th right pace of the story. The chemistry between Grady and Magnolia build in slowly with so much tender moment in between them.
I can not help smiling while listening to the audiobook.
4 stars
I always a fan of Miss Sorensen. Her story telling is sweet, romantic and tender. All combined with th right pace of the story. The chemistry between Grady and Magnolia build in slowly with so much tender moment in between them.
I can not help smiling while listening to the audiobook.
4 stars
Want to read
February 9, 2021
TIS THE DAY!!! Steal My Magnolia by Karla Sorensen is ALIVE and available for free in Kindle Unlimited! I am so excited for you all to read Grady and Magnolia’s story <3
★ ★ LINKS ★ ★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3jvE6l3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3kzJYec
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3oouvjH
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3owyhrl
Amazon Print: https://amzn.to/3oU0OpN
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/34sBlMZ
★ ★ AUDIOBOOK LINKS ★ ★
Authors Direct: http://bit.ly/3tiOJ0A
Apple Books: http://apple.co/2LawtVV
Nook: http://bit.ly/3jeCnlt
Kobo: http://bit.ly/3iNbNzP
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2Nw8txj
Chirp: http://bit.ly/3avdKwO
Scribd: http://bit.ly/3tjlZom
Audible: Coming Soon!
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Life lesson from Grady Buchanan: If you’re going to fall in love with the untouchable girl in town, don’t hire her as your only employee.Even after he bungled the interview with Magnolia MacIntyre, he knew better than to hire her.
The list of why it’s a bad idea is a long one.
Her father could ruin his fledgling business.She is completely overqualified.
And he’s attracted to her.
What does Grady do? He offers her the job.
Magnolia knew better than to take it.
Normally, she’d make the safe choice, and working for Grady is anything but.
He’s new in town–and entirely too charming.
Her dad will be furious.
She hates the outdoors and working for an outdoor adventure company is not exactly the right fit.
What does she do? She says yes on the spot.
Grady and Magnolia will have to prove to everyone in their life that they’re not crazy. And prove to each other that the list of why it’s a bad idea should be tossed out the window.
For these two opposites, sometimes doing the wrong thing is exactly right.
‘Steal My Magnolia’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #3 in the Love At First Sight series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
February 28, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
In theory, I was doing well. But that theory was flimsy, and I refused to think about what might happen if it crumbled under the weight of reality.
I wiggled my fingers at her daughter, who gave me a pained, uncomfortable smile in return. Yes, your mother was a passive-aggressive busybody, and I'd be embarrassed if I were you too. Only a southern woman could convey all that in a finger wave.
"Good God Almighty, Grady, you're gonna give me a heart attack, and believe me, that is not the way I plan on leaving this earth." Maxine was a welcome distraction, and I smiled. "You've got a plan?" "I will either be sleeping peacefully in my bed, or I will go out while some sixty-year-old silver fox makes me feel young again ... There'll be no other options."
I didn't lose my temper often, but when I did, I was like a beach ball held under the water for too long.
Worry is like trying to win a race while you're sitting on a rocking horse. You'll move, all right, but you sure won't get anywhere good.
My Review:
I don’t usually enjoy a slow-burn romance but this one was wicked funny, smartly paced, ingeniously nuanced, and highly amusing. I have smirked and giggled-snorted my way through each clever installment of Ms. Sorenson’s contributions. Regardless of the series or author, the denizens of Green Valley are a peculiar and curiously enticing sort, but in the hands of a skilled storyteller such as this, there is no end to the appeal and the odd secondary characters hold up the foundations as well as add extra sparkle. I cannot wait to read the next issue and see what she comes up with next.
In theory, I was doing well. But that theory was flimsy, and I refused to think about what might happen if it crumbled under the weight of reality.
I wiggled my fingers at her daughter, who gave me a pained, uncomfortable smile in return. Yes, your mother was a passive-aggressive busybody, and I'd be embarrassed if I were you too. Only a southern woman could convey all that in a finger wave.
"Good God Almighty, Grady, you're gonna give me a heart attack, and believe me, that is not the way I plan on leaving this earth." Maxine was a welcome distraction, and I smiled. "You've got a plan?" "I will either be sleeping peacefully in my bed, or I will go out while some sixty-year-old silver fox makes me feel young again ... There'll be no other options."
I didn't lose my temper often, but when I did, I was like a beach ball held under the water for too long.
Worry is like trying to win a race while you're sitting on a rocking horse. You'll move, all right, but you sure won't get anywhere good.
My Review:
I don’t usually enjoy a slow-burn romance but this one was wicked funny, smartly paced, ingeniously nuanced, and highly amusing. I have smirked and giggled-snorted my way through each clever installment of Ms. Sorenson’s contributions. Regardless of the series or author, the denizens of Green Valley are a peculiar and curiously enticing sort, but in the hands of a skilled storyteller such as this, there is no end to the appeal and the odd secondary characters hold up the foundations as well as add extra sparkle. I cannot wait to read the next issue and see what she comes up with next.
February 6, 2021
Publication date: February 9, 2021
Welcome back to Green Valley in Penny Reid's Book Universe!
This is the third book in the "Love at First Sight" series written by Karla Sorensen.
Once again we revisit the Buchanan family curse, where when a member of the Buchanan family meets their "ONE" (in Green Valley) it's love at first sight and for life.
Let me start by saying that this book can be read as a standalone, but the reader would definitely benefit from reading the previous book in the series Batter of Wits because the main character in this book is the previous books main characters, twin brother Grady.
What makes this story so good and engaging is that Grady's "ONE" is the one person who would make his life complicated, weird, and awkward.
Magnolia MacIntyre, Tucker's ex-fiance, the one he broke up with to be with Grady's twin sister Grace.
I really liked the characters in this story.
Grady and Magnolia circle one another throughout the story, which builds their chemistry and attraction to one another.
That being said, this is a slooooooow burn.
I really love slow-burn romance especially when it's well written and the author builds the couple's relationship until the anticipation of them finally getting together is so worth the wait.
The reason I'm only giving this book a 4-star instead of a 5-star is because I thought the ending was kinda anti-climatic.
Yes, there's a happy ending, but I was kinda expecting more raw passion when Grady and Magnolia are finally...FINALLY on the same page in their relationship.
Good story, and a great addition to the "Love at First Sight" series.
" I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by Smartypants Romance in exchange for an honest review."
Welcome back to Green Valley in Penny Reid's Book Universe!
This is the third book in the "Love at First Sight" series written by Karla Sorensen.
Once again we revisit the Buchanan family curse, where when a member of the Buchanan family meets their "ONE" (in Green Valley) it's love at first sight and for life.
Let me start by saying that this book can be read as a standalone, but the reader would definitely benefit from reading the previous book in the series Batter of Wits because the main character in this book is the previous books main characters, twin brother Grady.
What makes this story so good and engaging is that Grady's "ONE" is the one person who would make his life complicated, weird, and awkward.
Magnolia MacIntyre, Tucker's ex-fiance, the one he broke up with to be with Grady's twin sister Grace.
I really liked the characters in this story.
Grady and Magnolia circle one another throughout the story, which builds their chemistry and attraction to one another.
That being said, this is a slooooooow burn.
I really love slow-burn romance especially when it's well written and the author builds the couple's relationship until the anticipation of them finally getting together is so worth the wait.
The reason I'm only giving this book a 4-star instead of a 5-star is because I thought the ending was kinda anti-climatic.
Yes, there's a happy ending, but I was kinda expecting more raw passion when Grady and Magnolia are finally...FINALLY on the same page in their relationship.
Good story, and a great addition to the "Love at First Sight" series.
" I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by Smartypants Romance in exchange for an honest review."
Want to read
February 9, 2021STEAL MY MAGNOLIA by Karla Sorensen is LIVE in Kindle Unlimited!!! Hooray! We’re so excited for you to read Grady and Magnolia’s story. Small town romance, forbidden love, and all the feels. ❤
★ ★ LINKS ★ ★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3jvE6l3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3kzJYec
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3oouvjH
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3owyhrl
Amazon Print: https://amzn.to/3oU0OpN
Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/34sBlMZ
★ ★ AUDIOBOOK LINKS ★ ★
Authors Direct: http://bit.ly/3tiOJ0A
Apple Books: http://apple.co/2LawtVV
Nook: http://bit.ly/3jeCnlt
Kobo: http://bit.ly/3iNbNzP
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2Nw8txj
Chirp: http://bit.ly/3avdKwO
Scribd: http://bit.ly/3tjlZom
Audible: Coming Soon!
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Life lesson from Grady Buchanan: If you’re going to fall in love with the untouchable girl in town, don’t hire her as your only employee.Even after he bungled the interview with Magnolia MacIntyre, he knew better than to hire her.
The list of why it’s a bad idea is a long one.
Her father could ruin his fledgling business.She is completely overqualified.
And he’s attracted to her.
What does Grady do? He offers her the job.
Magnolia knew better than to take it.
Normally, she’d make the safe choice, and working for Grady is anything but.
He’s new in town–and entirely too charming.
Her dad will be furious.
She hates the outdoors and working for an outdoor adventure company is not exactly the right fit.
What does she do? She says yes on the spot.
Grady and Magnolia will have to prove to everyone in their life that they’re not crazy. And prove to each other that the list of why it’s a bad idea should be tossed out the window.
For these two opposites, sometimes doing the wrong thing is exactly right.
‘Steal My Magnolia’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #3 in the Love At First Sight series, Green Valley Chronicles, Penny Reid Book Universe.
May 19, 2021
one word to describe this book- sweet!!
can be read as standalone but is best read after book two because the characters are literally intertwined.. besides the "minor" fact that the heroine of this book is an ex-girlfriend of the hero's sister current boyfriend( that is the couple from the previous book) this is a truly cute story..
if you want a slow burn romance with a cinnamon roll hero who is absolutely worshiping the heroine - this is a book for you!!
and that second epilogue..I want Hunter's story since book one...I have a feeling it will be a great one..
can be read as standalone but is best read after book two because the characters are literally intertwined.. besides the "minor" fact that the heroine of this book is an ex-girlfriend of the hero's sister current boyfriend( that is the couple from the previous book) this is a truly cute story..
if you want a slow burn romance with a cinnamon roll hero who is absolutely worshiping the heroine - this is a book for you!!
and that second epilogue..I want Hunter's story since book one...I have a feeling it will be a great one..
March 14, 2021
Oh, how I love the Buchanan Love Curse! And I also love Karla Sorensen. So this book was at the top of my TBR the moment it was published.
Magnolia is just the kind of heroine I love. She is super smart, driven, a tiny bit neurotic, knows herself and knows what she wants and the changes she needs to make. She is so strong, but also repeatedly shows her softness. She is kind and fair and loving.
And Grady is a great hero. I am a sucker for a Sunshine Hero who always has a smile on his face. Grady is the ultimate Nice Guy. And when he first meets Magnolia, his clumsiness is so hilarious! I loved all of his embarrassing trips and falls and his total lack of having his $h*t together!
These two have a very slow burn romance, but I absolutely loved the sweet friendship that grew between them during that slow burn.
Karla Sorensen also did a superb job at writing a female POC lead. This book touches on some great topics surrounding race, what accompanies being in a mixed-race couple, and shows Grady learning things about what Magnolia's life is like as a Black female that had simply not occurred to him before. Sorensen handles all of these topics with the perfect balance of shedding light on these character's different experiences, without ever being overly preachy. I loved the tone this book had with this highly sensitive topic.
I am a reader who particularly likes a conflict beyond a couple being afraid to take a leap or worrying about what others might think. That's not to say this book didn't have a very valid and hard-to-overcome conflict, but I wished for just a bit more. Of course, that's a personal reader preference.
STEAL MY MAGNOLIA did have a great steamy scene, even without being highly descriptive. I love me some descriptive sex, but this book did an excellent job of feeling steamy while still remaining fairly PG-13. I was worried it might be too tame for my tastes, but it ended up being darn hot.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated PG-13
TRIGGERS: mention of racism
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5: covered a few deeper topics, but still a light read.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3qCLY7O (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
Magnolia is just the kind of heroine I love. She is super smart, driven, a tiny bit neurotic, knows herself and knows what she wants and the changes she needs to make. She is so strong, but also repeatedly shows her softness. She is kind and fair and loving.
And Grady is a great hero. I am a sucker for a Sunshine Hero who always has a smile on his face. Grady is the ultimate Nice Guy. And when he first meets Magnolia, his clumsiness is so hilarious! I loved all of his embarrassing trips and falls and his total lack of having his $h*t together!
These two have a very slow burn romance, but I absolutely loved the sweet friendship that grew between them during that slow burn.
Karla Sorensen also did a superb job at writing a female POC lead. This book touches on some great topics surrounding race, what accompanies being in a mixed-race couple, and shows Grady learning things about what Magnolia's life is like as a Black female that had simply not occurred to him before. Sorensen handles all of these topics with the perfect balance of shedding light on these character's different experiences, without ever being overly preachy. I loved the tone this book had with this highly sensitive topic.
I am a reader who particularly likes a conflict beyond a couple being afraid to take a leap or worrying about what others might think. That's not to say this book didn't have a very valid and hard-to-overcome conflict, but I wished for just a bit more. Of course, that's a personal reader preference.
STEAL MY MAGNOLIA did have a great steamy scene, even without being highly descriptive. I love me some descriptive sex, but this book did an excellent job of feeling steamy while still remaining fairly PG-13. I was worried it might be too tame for my tastes, but it ended up being darn hot.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated PG-13
TRIGGERS: mention of racism
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5: covered a few deeper topics, but still a light read.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3qCLY7O (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
February 7, 2021
This series has been an interesting take on a love at first sight curse. Twins Grady and Grace Buchanan definitely did not believe in the curse until 'BAM' hit them like lightening.
I'm very glad that Magnolia did not allow her deception of who she really was, go on for too long. Grady and Magnolia's potential for a relationship had so many roadblocks for them to traverse through. Grady's idea to win Magnolia, was ingenious and really showed how much he paid attention to her and the things she loved.
I'm very curious about Hux's story, and I look forward to reading it!
"But when you lay your heart at someone else's feet - the right person's feet - you don't worry about what they might do to it. You trust that the person you give that heart to will protect it."
I'm very glad that Magnolia did not allow her deception of who she really was, go on for too long. Grady and Magnolia's potential for a relationship had so many roadblocks for them to traverse through. Grady's idea to win Magnolia, was ingenious and really showed how much he paid attention to her and the things she loved.
I'm very curious about Hux's story, and I look forward to reading it!
"But when you lay your heart at someone else's feet - the right person's feet - you don't worry about what they might do to it. You trust that the person you give that heart to will protect it."
Read
January 11, 2021Should you read it? Of course you should. Because Karla wrote it and everything the writes turns to gold.
February 26, 2021
We've met Magnolia & Grady in Batter of Wits and even from that book, they were characters I really wanted to get to know more.
Magnolia felt like she's crafting her life within the confines of what people around her consider "acceptable" and that if she continues to do well, no one will notice how unhappy she is. BUT she's determined to make some changes. I always enjoy reading about characters taking charge of their own lives ✨ Magnolia is also hella driven and whip-smart and I love that about her.
Grady is Grace's twin who packed up his life in California and moved to Green Valley. He wanted to start a guided hiking and camping business. Magnolia getting a job at Grady’s business made her feel hopeful, as he had no preconceived notion of magnolia unlike everyone else in the town. She wanted a change and this felt like the first step she took. The process of them getting to know each other is sooo cute. The flirting and the banter really got me!!
I get so amused when I see Grady (and the other Buchanans) absolutely whipped for their love interest. I mean, ofcourse the “Buchanan love curse” plays a role, but the way Karla Sorensen puts their feelings into words makes me swoon. Exhibit A:
This is definitely a slow-burn. They have lots of cute moments but they get together at the end. I also think Grady really could have handled things better. "Great intentions, poor execution" just like he said but still!! This was so cute! <3
A part of me was thinking this would be the last book about the Buchanans but!!! The second epilogue!!!! I’m so giddy, I’ve been hearing about Hunter since the first book. This series is truly one of my faves. I mean... Karla Sorensen’s writing and family dynamics in the Green Valley universe? Yes and I want more please!
— rating: 3.5/5
2/26/21: this book (and the other 2 books in the series) is free to read on kindle unlimited!!
Magnolia felt like she's crafting her life within the confines of what people around her consider "acceptable" and that if she continues to do well, no one will notice how unhappy she is. BUT she's determined to make some changes. I always enjoy reading about characters taking charge of their own lives ✨ Magnolia is also hella driven and whip-smart and I love that about her.
Grady is Grace's twin who packed up his life in California and moved to Green Valley. He wanted to start a guided hiking and camping business. Magnolia getting a job at Grady’s business made her feel hopeful, as he had no preconceived notion of magnolia unlike everyone else in the town. She wanted a change and this felt like the first step she took. The process of them getting to know each other is sooo cute. The flirting and the banter really got me!!
I get so amused when I see Grady (and the other Buchanans) absolutely whipped for their love interest. I mean, ofcourse the “Buchanan love curse” plays a role, but the way Karla Sorensen puts their feelings into words makes me swoon. Exhibit A:
“And the smile she gave me? I almost had to clutch at my chest to make sure I was still breathing. It was like watching a sunrise unfold over the mountains. There was slow disbelief to it, a warmth, and a sheer, bright, blinding happiness that she couldn't hide.”
This is definitely a slow-burn. They have lots of cute moments but they get together at the end. I also think Grady really could have handled things better. "Great intentions, poor execution" just like he said but still!! This was so cute! <3
A part of me was thinking this would be the last book about the Buchanans but!!! The second epilogue!!!! I’m so giddy, I’ve been hearing about Hunter since the first book. This series is truly one of my faves. I mean... Karla Sorensen’s writing and family dynamics in the Green Valley universe? Yes and I want more please!
— rating: 3.5/5
2/26/21: this book (and the other 2 books in the series) is free to read on kindle unlimited!!
October 26, 2022
Slow Burn.
I was very worried heading into this book, due to the inter looping relationships and it wasn’t until the 70% mark that I felt comfortable with the situation. If you have read the previous books, you know about the Buchanan curse, or more apt the blessing - that a Buchanan meets their forever person and falls head over heels in love at first sight but only in Green Valley. Grady is the last Buchanan to experience the effects of the curse. It just so happens to be his sisters new boyfriend, Tucker’s ex girlfriend. Did someone say awkward, now add in that Magnolia is the new administration manager for Grady and Tucker’s Adventure Hiking business. Yep…somewhat tricky. And I will give credit where credit is due, this author didn’t play it down, nor make it like it wasn’t a major concern for all. It was handled with grace and care.
I can’t say that Grady and Magnolia were my favorite couple in this series. I adored them as characters but I felt the connection wasn’t as strong as the previous two couples. This love story is a very long slow burn and as much as I can appreciate they needed the time to adjust to the above mentioned awkwardness, it was still drawn out. There were very sweet moments of them getting to know each other, but most of the novel is the angsty anticipation. For me, I wanted maybe more time of them dating or even double dating so that dilemma was dealt with quicker. Nonetheless it’s a great addition to the series.
And the second epilogue, well that has me revved up again! I desperately want to know Hunter’s story about the girl (Iris) that got away.
I was very worried heading into this book, due to the inter looping relationships and it wasn’t until the 70% mark that I felt comfortable with the situation. If you have read the previous books, you know about the Buchanan curse, or more apt the blessing - that a Buchanan meets their forever person and falls head over heels in love at first sight but only in Green Valley. Grady is the last Buchanan to experience the effects of the curse. It just so happens to be his sisters new boyfriend, Tucker’s ex girlfriend. Did someone say awkward, now add in that Magnolia is the new administration manager for Grady and Tucker’s Adventure Hiking business. Yep…somewhat tricky. And I will give credit where credit is due, this author didn’t play it down, nor make it like it wasn’t a major concern for all. It was handled with grace and care.
I can’t say that Grady and Magnolia were my favorite couple in this series. I adored them as characters but I felt the connection wasn’t as strong as the previous two couples. This love story is a very long slow burn and as much as I can appreciate they needed the time to adjust to the above mentioned awkwardness, it was still drawn out. There were very sweet moments of them getting to know each other, but most of the novel is the angsty anticipation. For me, I wanted maybe more time of them dating or even double dating so that dilemma was dealt with quicker. Nonetheless it’s a great addition to the series.
And the second epilogue, well that has me revved up again! I desperately want to know Hunter’s story about the girl (Iris) that got away.
January 25, 2021
I was lucky enough to receive an arc of Steal My Magnolia and I couldn't wait to see how Karla Sorenson was going to make me love Magnolia, after her portrayal in Batter of Wits. Well, it took all of about a page for me to love Magnolia, who is trying to make a life for herself, without the interference of her father. He means well, but he has never let Magnolia sort out her own problems or figure things out on her own...he has always come to her rescue. Grady Buchanan is a bit of a hot mess. He has ideas and plans for his business but he can't seem to get himself organized enough to get going properly. Magnolia decides to take a leap of faith and ask him for a job. The Buchanan family is afflicted with a love curse that allows them to only fall in love in their hometown of Green Valley, Tenn, and he knows the curse has struck the moment he lays eyes on Magnolia. This is a sweet love story and I love both of these characters. Magnolia is a doer and Grady is a dreamer but they are a perfect match. I loved their flirting and banter. The reason this wasn't a five star read for me is it is a slow burn with only one fairly tame sex scene near the end of the book, and there wasn't much steam or build up overall. That's definitely just a personal preference issue and I still really enjoyed the book and would recommend this book and series!
November 2, 2022
3.5 stars
Another cute installment. I love that each couple and story feel unique. And Magnolia and Grady have great chemistry and a nice build ro their relationship
Another cute installment. I love that each couple and story feel unique. And Magnolia and Grady have great chemistry and a nice build ro their relationship
February 12, 2021
3.75/5
Insta love is usually not my cup of tea, but I enjoyed this installment a lot!! Magnolia and Grady were very cute, and I love the way their relationship slowly evolved. Also, can we talk about the Hunter teaser??? I need his and Iris's second chance romance!!
Insta love is usually not my cup of tea, but I enjoyed this installment a lot!! Magnolia and Grady were very cute, and I love the way their relationship slowly evolved. Also, can we talk about the Hunter teaser??? I need his and Iris's second chance romance!!
February 12, 2021
I could wax poetic about how much I adore Karla Sorensen’s writing style, but I’ll reel it in and stick to the story. “Steal My Magnolia” is Grady Buchanan’s story and the 3rd in the aptly named “Love at First Sight” series.
Maybe the insta-love Buchanan love curse isn’t for everyone, but I freaking love it. I love it! I love that it hits and turns its unsuspecting Buchanan family member into a clumsy, ridiculous, lovesick fool. I love even more that it hit a big swoony hunk of outdoorsy man and he became this gooey marshmallow of gawky fumbling and feelings. It is DELICIOUS.
Grady was such a sweet hero. Honest and open, he wears his heart on his sleeve and I mean, he catalogues her smiles, guys. The imagery the author conveyed of his feelings just routinely floored me.
“She was like a flower, blooming bright and pretty, in the middle of the concrete-colored office space, sitting at a drab desk and chair, on top of drab floors. Almost like I’d picked everything about this boring space simply to highlight how beautiful she was.”
Magnolia was a woman who knows what she wanted and she went for it, and I can appreciate that. (Sidebar- I wished I had spent my youth in cotillion classes and learned to school my expressions like she has.) She is smart and sweet and I was so happy she was able to take off her mask a bit. The fact that she had to hide so much of herself with everyone was hard to witness.
She is a product of her family and oh how my heart ached at the dichotomy of a father who obviously utterly adores her and yet makes her life unintentionally difficult. After reading book 2 “Batter of Wits”, I had no love for that man, and yet, like humans tend to have, there are layers, and reasons behind his... jerky disposition. So, reader, prepare thyself. The scenes where it is just her and her father or her and her mom and dad were so touching, I could feel it in my chest. The palpable tensions of family dynamics are tricky and yet- Sorensen writes it in such a way that you can’t help but yearn for this father who truly thinks he’s doing the right thing by his family. The more I got to know him, the more I fell in love with him too (and that was absolutely unexpected). Her parents love struck such a chord and I think it went a long way in showing how she was able to interpret Grady’s utmost adoration.
Such excitement for how she has set up the next one in the series, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting hearing more about book 4! What a fun way to start off Launch 3 of Smartypants Romance.
Maybe the insta-love Buchanan love curse isn’t for everyone, but I freaking love it. I love it! I love that it hits and turns its unsuspecting Buchanan family member into a clumsy, ridiculous, lovesick fool. I love even more that it hit a big swoony hunk of outdoorsy man and he became this gooey marshmallow of gawky fumbling and feelings. It is DELICIOUS.
Grady was such a sweet hero. Honest and open, he wears his heart on his sleeve and I mean, he catalogues her smiles, guys. The imagery the author conveyed of his feelings just routinely floored me.
“She was like a flower, blooming bright and pretty, in the middle of the concrete-colored office space, sitting at a drab desk and chair, on top of drab floors. Almost like I’d picked everything about this boring space simply to highlight how beautiful she was.”
Magnolia was a woman who knows what she wanted and she went for it, and I can appreciate that. (Sidebar- I wished I had spent my youth in cotillion classes and learned to school my expressions like she has.) She is smart and sweet and I was so happy she was able to take off her mask a bit. The fact that she had to hide so much of herself with everyone was hard to witness.
She is a product of her family and oh how my heart ached at the dichotomy of a father who obviously utterly adores her and yet makes her life unintentionally difficult. After reading book 2 “Batter of Wits”, I had no love for that man, and yet, like humans tend to have, there are layers, and reasons behind his... jerky disposition. So, reader, prepare thyself. The scenes where it is just her and her father or her and her mom and dad were so touching, I could feel it in my chest. The palpable tensions of family dynamics are tricky and yet- Sorensen writes it in such a way that you can’t help but yearn for this father who truly thinks he’s doing the right thing by his family. The more I got to know him, the more I fell in love with him too (and that was absolutely unexpected). Her parents love struck such a chord and I think it went a long way in showing how she was able to interpret Grady’s utmost adoration.
Such excitement for how she has set up the next one in the series, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting hearing more about book 4! What a fun way to start off Launch 3 of Smartypants Romance.
February 9, 2021
❝𝐒𝐡𝐞'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲-𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝-𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭.❞
Even if you haven't read the previous books YOU. NEED. TO. READ. THIS!!!
Grady and Magnolia' story is love at first sight (a trope I usually hate but once you get the Buchanan side of things, you start to love it 😉), an angsty slow burn romance, but with a lot of cute ✨moments🎇, the kind that leave you with a silly smile. Also, these characters have such special personalities, Grady and Magnolia are the complete opposite of each other, but they're just destined to happen, that's what the curse says after all 🙊💘
And that (2nd) epilogue !!! I just know it was a promise to an even more angsty romance and I love that for me 🤧
Even if you haven't read the previous books YOU. NEED. TO. READ. THIS!!!
Grady and Magnolia' story is love at first sight (a trope I usually hate but once you get the Buchanan side of things, you start to love it 😉), an angsty slow burn romance, but with a lot of cute ✨moments🎇, the kind that leave you with a silly smile. Also, these characters have such special personalities, Grady and Magnolia are the complete opposite of each other, but they're just destined to happen, that's what the curse says after all 🙊💘
And that (2nd) epilogue !!! I just know it was a promise to an even more angsty romance and I love that for me 🤧
January 21, 2021
Needing help organizing his new business Grady hires the beautiful woman who enters the shop not knowing exactly who she really is. But when Magnolia's identity is finally revealed, can true love override the baggage she comes with? And what happens when her ex-fiancé happens to be your twin sisters soulmate? Can you really be a match made on heaven? or Hell? You will laugh out loud and sigh with happiness while reading this book. Another great addition to the Love at First Sight Series.
January 16, 2021
4.5 stars
Oh, it’s so good to be back in Green Valley and especially with the Buchanan brothers.
This is the story of Grady and Magnolia. And if you read the first two books, you should already know all about the Buchanan course and what happens when Cupido strikes his arrow when less expecting.
I love their journey of discovering themselves and discover what they actually want from each other, how much that chemistry sparks and how the author has demonstrated that love doesn’t care about anything, no skin colour or judgement, no upbringing or anything at all.
Beautiful interracial romance story that I couldn’t stop reading.
Oh, it’s so good to be back in Green Valley and especially with the Buchanan brothers.
This is the story of Grady and Magnolia. And if you read the first two books, you should already know all about the Buchanan course and what happens when Cupido strikes his arrow when less expecting.
I love their journey of discovering themselves and discover what they actually want from each other, how much that chemistry sparks and how the author has demonstrated that love doesn’t care about anything, no skin colour or judgement, no upbringing or anything at all.
Beautiful interracial romance story that I couldn’t stop reading.
February 25, 2021
Find out more about Steal My Magnolia here ➡ https://wp.me/p7rQ0C-6dS
If you haven’t read the series from the beginning, you should. Not probably should, but certainly. You’ll have to trust me on that one. There’s a curse and a tangled web. That’s all I’m saying. LOL DO with that what you will :)
My heart was super happy with this one. Magnolia and Grady ticked all my *happy sigh* boxes and then some. Their story was this slow sizzle that just buried itself in my heart and made me smile like a lunatic most of the read. Their story was what I sometimes refer to as easy like Sunday morning. Even in conflict the story wasn’t dramatic or angsty, it was real and relatable and just easy! Don’t mistaken easy for slow or boring, because it was neither. Quite the opposite. Magnolia and Grady do find themselves in the midst of quite the challenge, which makes the story quite engaging and interesting!
I am super stoked to find out what Karla has in store for Hunter next!
Download your copy today or read with Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3jvE6l3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3kzJYec
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3oouvjH
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3owyhrl
If you haven’t read the series from the beginning, you should. Not probably should, but certainly. You’ll have to trust me on that one. There’s a curse and a tangled web. That’s all I’m saying. LOL DO with that what you will :)
My heart was super happy with this one. Magnolia and Grady ticked all my *happy sigh* boxes and then some. Their story was this slow sizzle that just buried itself in my heart and made me smile like a lunatic most of the read. Their story was what I sometimes refer to as easy like Sunday morning. Even in conflict the story wasn’t dramatic or angsty, it was real and relatable and just easy! Don’t mistaken easy for slow or boring, because it was neither. Quite the opposite. Magnolia and Grady do find themselves in the midst of quite the challenge, which makes the story quite engaging and interesting!
I am super stoked to find out what Karla has in store for Hunter next!
Download your copy today or read with Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3jvE6l3
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3kzJYec
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3oouvjH
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3owyhrl
February 5, 2021
Karla Sorensen has done it again! Grady and Magnolia blew me away. They had me laughing and crying and swooning so hard. And that second epilogue had me squealing with joy!
January 10, 2021
How to do I sign up for the Karla Sorensen fan club? Is there an opening for me?
Once again, I've fallen in love with a fictional character and I don't mind one bit. Grady Buchanan is the sweetest, kindest, and hands down the swooniest Buchanan to date. I absolutely loved taking the journey with Grady as he maneuvered his way through the family "curse" and fell head over heels for the one woman fate chose for him.
Steal My Magnolia is more than a love story. It's a beautifully crafted journey of life full of obstacles but a journey worth the travel with the right person.
Once again, I've fallen in love with a fictional character and I don't mind one bit. Grady Buchanan is the sweetest, kindest, and hands down the swooniest Buchanan to date. I absolutely loved taking the journey with Grady as he maneuvered his way through the family "curse" and fell head over heels for the one woman fate chose for him.
Steal My Magnolia is more than a love story. It's a beautifully crafted journey of life full of obstacles but a journey worth the travel with the right person.
Read
April 21, 2023rtc
February 14, 2021
One of my favorite worlds is the Smartypants Romance books which are based on the stories by Penny Reid. The Love at First Sight series is set in Green Valley which is the main home base for Penny Reid's series The Winston Brothers. The Buchanan twins Grace and Grady have moved to Green Valley and spend time with their dad. As the pair grew up they were forever told of the Green Valley Buchanan curse where in this town you would meet the "one", your soulmate. For Grace it was Tucker and since she was a female, it was Hate at first sight - the thing too was that Tucker already had a girlfriend whom he ended up dumping for Grace. Book #3 is Grady's story and like his sister, he thought that this story was just that but he is about to discover that the curse is very very real. Grady has started up a hiking/ outdoors business and is contacted by a female named Lia offering herself as his admin girl. Grady meets Lia and it is love at first sight for him as he finds himself turned into a bumbling mess and now understands the curse is very real indeed. As the book goes along though we discover "Lia" is none other than Magnolia - Tucker's ex-girlfriend. Grady is now torn between honoring his sister and business partner and his love for Magnolia. Grady has heard tales and seen first hand what happens if you don't end up marrying the "one" as his dad divorced and his cousin Hunter is about to sign papers. What will happen though when Grady spills his love for Magnolia and it freaks her out? Will she find her way back to him or will Grady fall prey to the feelings of being patient just as his cousin Levi had to as remember Levi had to be friend-zoned for 5 whole years. The other thing that I loved about this book was that we got to see more of Magnolia's family and discovered that her mother was a "Boone" - remember Daisy, Simone, etc. This is Magnolia's mothers' side of the family. Steal My Magnolia by Karla Sorensen was another great book and transports you back into the heart of Green Valley.
February 20, 2021
Slow burn romance that did nothing for me with great family dynamic. I'm so excited to read Hunter's book.
January 14, 2022
So.. we're just never going to address the fact that the heroine's dad is an entitled white man who abuses his authority at every point and how UNACCEPTABLE his behavior is? He gets a pass because he loves his black wife and biracial daughter?
October 6, 2022
This book was much better with the character development of the heroine than the last one. But I have to say that crushing on your sister’s boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend is just weird! That’s going to make family time really awkward.
February 5, 2021
I love a good slow burn, so when I tell you that this was just plain slow... believe it. The last two books I read by this author had magnetic chemistry, an undeniable connection that had me turning the pages. This didn't even feel like it was written by the same author. And I'm sorry to say that, because there were plenty of elements that worked for me, but this was a pretty lackluster read overall. Our couple spends SO MUCH time apart - and when they are together, their interactions usually consist of unrequited longing or work conversation. Add in the awkwardness of the forbidden nature of their relationship, and this just wasn't a win for me.
The story follows Grady, a man who is new to town and starting up his own business. There's a family curse of sorts associated with the town, which Grady thought was nonsense until he saw it happen firsthand with his sister. You see, it seems that Grady has a soulmate in town, and he's destined to fall for her at first sight. And that happens when he meets Magnolia... which is unfortunate, since she's all kinds of forbidden. Not only is Magnolia his new employee, but she's also his sister's boyfriend's first love, a woman who has just gotten out of a long-term relationship with his future brother-in-law, and is looking forward to discovering who she is on her own.
I was really looking forward to reading this, because I love Sorensen's writing style and the devourable quality of her work. And this just didn't live up to my expectations. There's nothing inherently "bad" about the story, but there also wasn't enough to keep me interested, or rooting for Grady and Magnolia when there were SO many obstacles in their path. The relationship (if you could call it that) felt very one-sided, and didn't seem to make any sort of progress until the final act. There wasn't enough time spent together, or enough chemistry to add any tension beyond the forbidden element. So, I can't say that I loved this, unfortunately. The foundation of a good romance is there, but it didn't reach its potential. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this sweet, slow burn romance.
The story follows Grady, a man who is new to town and starting up his own business. There's a family curse of sorts associated with the town, which Grady thought was nonsense until he saw it happen firsthand with his sister. You see, it seems that Grady has a soulmate in town, and he's destined to fall for her at first sight. And that happens when he meets Magnolia... which is unfortunate, since she's all kinds of forbidden. Not only is Magnolia his new employee, but she's also his sister's boyfriend's first love, a woman who has just gotten out of a long-term relationship with his future brother-in-law, and is looking forward to discovering who she is on her own.
I was really looking forward to reading this, because I love Sorensen's writing style and the devourable quality of her work. And this just didn't live up to my expectations. There's nothing inherently "bad" about the story, but there also wasn't enough to keep me interested, or rooting for Grady and Magnolia when there were SO many obstacles in their path. The relationship (if you could call it that) felt very one-sided, and didn't seem to make any sort of progress until the final act. There wasn't enough time spent together, or enough chemistry to add any tension beyond the forbidden element. So, I can't say that I loved this, unfortunately. The foundation of a good romance is there, but it didn't reach its potential. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this sweet, slow burn romance.
March 14, 2021
I loved Magnolia and Grady. They're both well-developed characters, and I found them to be insanely likeable. Grady is another swoon-worthy Sorensen hero who will steal your heart. Magnolia radiates inner-strength and beauty. (And side note: I'm a tad envious of her wardrobe.)
I also enjoyed the overall plot of the story. However, I wish Grady and Magnolia would have spent a bit more time together throughout the duration of this book, so I could feel their chemistry.
Steal My Magnolia is a fascinating combination of insta-love and slow burn. While I liked so many things about this one, I simply found the chemistry to be lacking. Perhaps if the main characters spent more time together, their connection would be more tangible.
Some of the secondary and tertiary characters seemed a bit inconsistent compared to their representation in previous books. Still, despite the difficulties I had with this one, my love for the Buchanan family endures, as does my appreciation for Sorensen's writing style. I'm eager for the next book in the series. It's fascinating to see the different ways the love at first sight "curse" plays out for each of the Buchanans.
3.5 stars
I also enjoyed the overall plot of the story. However, I wish Grady and Magnolia would have spent a bit more time together throughout the duration of this book, so I could feel their chemistry.
Steal My Magnolia is a fascinating combination of insta-love and slow burn. While I liked so many things about this one, I simply found the chemistry to be lacking. Perhaps if the main characters spent more time together, their connection would be more tangible.
Some of the secondary and tertiary characters seemed a bit inconsistent compared to their representation in previous books. Still, despite the difficulties I had with this one, my love for the Buchanan family endures, as does my appreciation for Sorensen's writing style. I'm eager for the next book in the series. It's fascinating to see the different ways the love at first sight "curse" plays out for each of the Buchanans.
3.5 stars
February 9, 2021
I loved this third installment in the “Love at First Sight” series. I read Grace’s book and jumped straight into Grady’s to keep the story lines fresh in my mind.
This book was a terrific slow burn with light angst, but ALL THE LONGING! OMG, my heart hurt for Grady. He was originally so contemptuous of the “Buchanan curse” and when it hits him full force, he did not know what to do with himself. Except wait, because he instinctively did what’s in the best interest of the woman he loves.
And then he finally spilt the beans to Magnolia and that blew up in his face! Seriously, this poor boy could not catch a break. But I loved how they slowly made their way back to each other through cute Valentine’s Day gestures.
The epilogue of the story gave us a preview of who’s next in line to face the impact of the Buchanan curse and I can’t wait to see how things work out for Hunter.
This book was a terrific slow burn with light angst, but ALL THE LONGING! OMG, my heart hurt for Grady. He was originally so contemptuous of the “Buchanan curse” and when it hits him full force, he did not know what to do with himself. Except wait, because he instinctively did what’s in the best interest of the woman he loves.
And then he finally spilt the beans to Magnolia and that blew up in his face! Seriously, this poor boy could not catch a break. But I loved how they slowly made their way back to each other through cute Valentine’s Day gestures.
The epilogue of the story gave us a preview of who’s next in line to face the impact of the Buchanan curse and I can’t wait to see how things work out for Hunter.
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