What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sweet Magnolias #10
Where Azaleas Bloom
New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Sherryl Woods explores the healing power of a love strong enough to join two wounded families.
Single mom Lynn Morrow is determined to put food on the table for her son and daughter. Her soon-to-be-ex-husband has failed to meet his obligations time and again—but it turns out that Ed is struggling with his own demons. Enter contractor Mitch Franklin, an unlikely knight in shining armor.
A widower with two grieving sons, Mitch once admired Lynn from afar. Now he sees in her not only the sweet girl who got away, but a woman desperately in need of support. While rushing to the rescue of Lynn and her children comes naturally, he's also wise enough to encourage Lynn to find her own way...hopefully straight into his arms.
“Once again, Woods proves her expertise in matters of the heart.”—RT BookReviews
339 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2012
832 people are currently reading
7636 people want to read
About the author
Sherryl Woods
556 books4,519 followersWith two other careers to her credit before becoming a novelist and four states in which she's lived for extended periods of time, Sherryl Woods has collected friends and memories, along with way too much unnecessary junk.
"The friends are the only things I've brought with me through the years that really matter," she says. "I could probably live without one more chintz teacup, another tin-litho sandpail or another snowglobe, but I need those friends."
The theme of enduring friendships and families is always central to Sherryl's books, including her latest Chesapeake Shores series — THE INN AT EAGLE POINT, FLOWERS ON MAIN and HARBOR LIGHTS.
Author of more than 100 romance and mystery novels, Sherryl Woods grew up in Virginia. Over the years she had lived in Ohio and Florida, as well as California. Currently she divides her time between Key Biscayne, Florida and Colonial Beach, Virginia, the small, river-front town where she spent her childhood summers.
A graduate of Ohio State University School of Journalism, Sherryl spent more than ten years as a journalist, most of them as a television critic for newspapers in Ohio and Florida. For several years she also coordinated a motivational program for the more than 8,000 employees at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
Her first book, RESTORING LOVE, was published in 1982 by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy under the pseudonym of Suzanne Sherrill. Her second book, SAND CASTLES, under the pseudonym of Alexandra Kirk, was published later that same year by Bantam. She began using her own name when she moved to the Second Chance at Love line at Berkley Publishing. In 1986, she began writing full-time and also began her long career at Silhouette Books with the Desire title NOT AT EIGHT, DARLING, set in the world of television which she covered for so many years.
In addition to her more than 75 romances for Silhouette Desire and Special Edition, she has written thirteen mysteries — nine in the Amanda Roberts series and four in the Molly DeWitt series.
When she's not writing or reading, Sherryl loves to garden, though she's not at her best on a riding lawn mower. She also loves tennis, theater, and ballet, even though her top spin has long since vanished, she's never set foot on a stage, and she's way too uncoordinated to dance. She also loves baseball and claims anyone who's ever seen Kevin Costner in "Bull Durham" can understand why.
"The friends are the only things I've brought with me through the years that really matter," she says. "I could probably live without one more chintz teacup, another tin-litho sandpail or another snowglobe, but I need those friends."
The theme of enduring friendships and families is always central to Sherryl's books, including her latest Chesapeake Shores series — THE INN AT EAGLE POINT, FLOWERS ON MAIN and HARBOR LIGHTS.
Author of more than 100 romance and mystery novels, Sherryl Woods grew up in Virginia. Over the years she had lived in Ohio and Florida, as well as California. Currently she divides her time between Key Biscayne, Florida and Colonial Beach, Virginia, the small, river-front town where she spent her childhood summers.
A graduate of Ohio State University School of Journalism, Sherryl spent more than ten years as a journalist, most of them as a television critic for newspapers in Ohio and Florida. For several years she also coordinated a motivational program for the more than 8,000 employees at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
Her first book, RESTORING LOVE, was published in 1982 by Dell Candlelight Ecstasy under the pseudonym of Suzanne Sherrill. Her second book, SAND CASTLES, under the pseudonym of Alexandra Kirk, was published later that same year by Bantam. She began using her own name when she moved to the Second Chance at Love line at Berkley Publishing. In 1986, she began writing full-time and also began her long career at Silhouette Books with the Desire title NOT AT EIGHT, DARLING, set in the world of television which she covered for so many years.
In addition to her more than 75 romances for Silhouette Desire and Special Edition, she has written thirteen mysteries — nine in the Amanda Roberts series and four in the Molly DeWitt series.
When she's not writing or reading, Sherryl loves to garden, though she's not at her best on a riding lawn mower. She also loves tennis, theater, and ballet, even though her top spin has long since vanished, she's never set foot on a stage, and she's way too uncoordinated to dance. She also loves baseball and claims anyone who's ever seen Kevin Costner in "Bull Durham" can understand why.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
August 12, 2023
5/5⭐
Este libro pertenece a la saga “Dulce Magnolias” es el número 10; Sin embargo hace más de cinco años que quería leerlo. Es lo primero que leo de Sheryl Woods y escogí este libro por el título ya que aquí en mi ciudad si hay una planta que la destaca en primavera son las azaleas. La sinopsis es hermosa pero aún más lo es la historia. Una bonita historia de amor en la que nos enseña que NO es necesario llenarse de erotismo para poder disfrutar de una preciosa historia.
Lynn está desesperada, sólo le quedan 24,35 en su cuenta corriente para sobrevivir y comprar comida para sus hijos. Jeremy tiene 10 años y Lexie 14 y cuando él pide un bocadillo después de la escuela, ella entra en pánico, ya que no tiene nada en la casa. Gracias a algunos amigos maravillosos como su vecina de al lado, Raylene y Carter, se dan cuenta que ella está en problemas económicos y los ayudarán.
Lynn ha estado enamorada toda su vida de Ed, su ex marido pero ahora tras muchos años de matrimonio todo ha acabado, el divorcio se aproxima pero eso no le preocupa,sino que le preocupa no poder darle de comer a sus hijos porque Ed no le pasa la pensión y a pesar de haber buscado trabajo la cosa se complica, se siente sola y aterrorizada pero es posible que con la ayuda de sus amigas y de Mitch pueda mantener la fortaleza y luchar para que nada les falte.
Mitch (cómo amé a éste hombre) es un contratista y trabaja para Raylene y Carter, de repente entra en escena y se recuerdan de la escuela secundaria. Mitch estaba enamorado de Lynn en ese entonces, pero ella parecía tener solo ojos para Ed. Mitch es viudo, tiene dos hijos que estudian en la universidad, perdió a su mujer hace un año, un terrible accidente de tráfico que acabó con su matrimonio y con la mujer a la que amó y compartió tantos años de su vida; Luego de unos primeros meses duros ahora por fin ha conseguido asumir su desgracia y comprender que debe seguir adelante, que su vida no acabó en ese triste día y que es el momento de afrontar el futuro y si es con Lynn, la mujer a la que amó en su niñez mucho mejor.
Pero también tenemos a Flo que por lo visto es una de las integrantes del Club de las dulces Magnolias, y es un personaje en ésta historia pero yo AME a ésta viejita porque nos enseña que a cualquier edad la vida puede ser maravillosa y el amor no tiene edad.
En fin, es una novela sencillita pero muy conmovedora que RECOMIENDO pero si, reconozco que es necesario empezar por el número 1 de la saga porque aparecen algunos personajes de libros anteriores. Igual, disfruté de esta conmovedora historia sobre la amistad y el amor.
Este libro pertenece a la saga “Dulce Magnolias” es el número 10; Sin embargo hace más de cinco años que quería leerlo. Es lo primero que leo de Sheryl Woods y escogí este libro por el título ya que aquí en mi ciudad si hay una planta que la destaca en primavera son las azaleas. La sinopsis es hermosa pero aún más lo es la historia. Una bonita historia de amor en la que nos enseña que NO es necesario llenarse de erotismo para poder disfrutar de una preciosa historia.
Lynn está desesperada, sólo le quedan 24,35 en su cuenta corriente para sobrevivir y comprar comida para sus hijos. Jeremy tiene 10 años y Lexie 14 y cuando él pide un bocadillo después de la escuela, ella entra en pánico, ya que no tiene nada en la casa. Gracias a algunos amigos maravillosos como su vecina de al lado, Raylene y Carter, se dan cuenta que ella está en problemas económicos y los ayudarán.
Lynn ha estado enamorada toda su vida de Ed, su ex marido pero ahora tras muchos años de matrimonio todo ha acabado, el divorcio se aproxima pero eso no le preocupa,sino que le preocupa no poder darle de comer a sus hijos porque Ed no le pasa la pensión y a pesar de haber buscado trabajo la cosa se complica, se siente sola y aterrorizada pero es posible que con la ayuda de sus amigas y de Mitch pueda mantener la fortaleza y luchar para que nada les falte.
Mitch (cómo amé a éste hombre) es un contratista y trabaja para Raylene y Carter, de repente entra en escena y se recuerdan de la escuela secundaria. Mitch estaba enamorado de Lynn en ese entonces, pero ella parecía tener solo ojos para Ed. Mitch es viudo, tiene dos hijos que estudian en la universidad, perdió a su mujer hace un año, un terrible accidente de tráfico que acabó con su matrimonio y con la mujer a la que amó y compartió tantos años de su vida; Luego de unos primeros meses duros ahora por fin ha conseguido asumir su desgracia y comprender que debe seguir adelante, que su vida no acabó en ese triste día y que es el momento de afrontar el futuro y si es con Lynn, la mujer a la que amó en su niñez mucho mejor.
Pero también tenemos a Flo que por lo visto es una de las integrantes del Club de las dulces Magnolias, y es un personaje en ésta historia pero yo AME a ésta viejita porque nos enseña que a cualquier edad la vida puede ser maravillosa y el amor no tiene edad.
En fin, es una novela sencillita pero muy conmovedora que RECOMIENDO pero si, reconozco que es necesario empezar por el número 1 de la saga porque aparecen algunos personajes de libros anteriores. Igual, disfruté de esta conmovedora historia sobre la amistad y el amor.
June 24, 2017
Good book. Lynn is in the midst of a crisis. Her soon to be ex-husband has missed child support payments and hasn't been paying the mortgage on the house. She's down to her last few dollars with little food in the house and no way to pay the bills. She is justifiably angry at Ed, but determined to protect his relationship with their children. This is especially difficult with their fourteen year old daughter, who is old enough to understand what is happening. She has one part-time job with friend and neighbor Raylene, but needs something else. While looking for a job in a bad part of town, she is spotted by Mitch, who offers her a job with him instead.
Mitch is a widower who lost his wife to a drunk driver a year earlier. He is slowly working himself out of the overwhelming grief he had felt at the beginning. Mitch and Lynn have known each other since they were kids. Mitch had had quite the crush on her when they were thirteen, but she was already fixated on Ed, so he never did anything about it. Now he can't help but want to make things better for her.
I loved Mitch. He is sweet and protective and he understands Lynn very well. I really liked the way that he didn't stomp on her pride in his eagerness to help, but instead made it possible for her to help herself. I really liked how they began with friendship that slowly grew into more. Mitch is careful to ensure that he is truly ready to move on after his wife's death before he tries to advance things with Lynn. I also enjoyed his interactions with her kids, especially taking Jeremy under his wing.
I liked Lynn's determination to take care of her family. There were times when her pride refused to allow her to seek the help she needed, but her children's welfare was always at the top of her priorities. I liked watching her stand up to Ed when she needed to.
The development of their relationship was slow and sweet, with a hint of fire lurking under the surface. I liked the way that Mitch made his interest clear without pushing Lynn to move faster than she was ready for. Lynn was surprised by her attraction to Mitch, and a bit wary of her feelings at the beginning. There was one stumbling block that had to be dealt with, but I thought that Mitch handled it very well. When Ed decided to use Lynn's relationship with Mitch during the divorce proceedings, I ached for Mitch and what he decided to do. There was also a little bit of drama with Mitch's sons, but again, maturity and communication went a long way toward resolving that issue. I loved the ending and seeing Mitch and Lynn get the future they wanted.
The drama of the divorce was well portrayed. The problems faced by Lynn are all too common. I loved seeing Helen's reactions to Ed's antics and her determination to protect Lynn and the kids. The mystery of what Ed and his lawyer were up to was interesting, and had me considering several possibilities. What it turned out to be never crossed my mind. There were times I detested Ed and others when I felt sorry for him. In the end, I felt that Lynn handled everything quite well, including her dealings with Ed's mother. I also ached for the two kids, most especially for Lexie. Her feelings for her father were affected by his actions and she was torn in how she wanted to treat him. I liked the way that Lynn helped her to accept her feelings, but also to look at things from other perspectives.
Also running through the book was a continuation of what is happening with the three senior Magnolias. In the previous two books we had seen that Frances is having health problems that have begun to escalate. I hurt for her and her fears and frustration, and ached for Liz and Flo as they helped her deal with them. Their problems were lightened somewhat by Flo's revelation of what she has been up to. Helen's reactions are just what is expected, and seeing the two of them resolve the strain between them was both funny and heartwarming.
As always, the deep friendship among the Magnolias and their support of each other through thick and thin is a force to be reckoned with. I loved Lynn's acceptance into the group and how each of them helps her in their own way. I hope that there will be more books in the future, when the younger generation, who have already shown Magnolia values, are ready for stories of their own.
Mitch is a widower who lost his wife to a drunk driver a year earlier. He is slowly working himself out of the overwhelming grief he had felt at the beginning. Mitch and Lynn have known each other since they were kids. Mitch had had quite the crush on her when they were thirteen, but she was already fixated on Ed, so he never did anything about it. Now he can't help but want to make things better for her.
I loved Mitch. He is sweet and protective and he understands Lynn very well. I really liked the way that he didn't stomp on her pride in his eagerness to help, but instead made it possible for her to help herself. I really liked how they began with friendship that slowly grew into more. Mitch is careful to ensure that he is truly ready to move on after his wife's death before he tries to advance things with Lynn. I also enjoyed his interactions with her kids, especially taking Jeremy under his wing.
I liked Lynn's determination to take care of her family. There were times when her pride refused to allow her to seek the help she needed, but her children's welfare was always at the top of her priorities. I liked watching her stand up to Ed when she needed to.
The development of their relationship was slow and sweet, with a hint of fire lurking under the surface. I liked the way that Mitch made his interest clear without pushing Lynn to move faster than she was ready for. Lynn was surprised by her attraction to Mitch, and a bit wary of her feelings at the beginning. There was one stumbling block that had to be dealt with, but I thought that Mitch handled it very well. When Ed decided to use Lynn's relationship with Mitch during the divorce proceedings, I ached for Mitch and what he decided to do. There was also a little bit of drama with Mitch's sons, but again, maturity and communication went a long way toward resolving that issue. I loved the ending and seeing Mitch and Lynn get the future they wanted.
The drama of the divorce was well portrayed. The problems faced by Lynn are all too common. I loved seeing Helen's reactions to Ed's antics and her determination to protect Lynn and the kids. The mystery of what Ed and his lawyer were up to was interesting, and had me considering several possibilities. What it turned out to be never crossed my mind. There were times I detested Ed and others when I felt sorry for him. In the end, I felt that Lynn handled everything quite well, including her dealings with Ed's mother. I also ached for the two kids, most especially for Lexie. Her feelings for her father were affected by his actions and she was torn in how she wanted to treat him. I liked the way that Lynn helped her to accept her feelings, but also to look at things from other perspectives.
Also running through the book was a continuation of what is happening with the three senior Magnolias. In the previous two books we had seen that Frances is having health problems that have begun to escalate. I hurt for her and her fears and frustration, and ached for Liz and Flo as they helped her deal with them. Their problems were lightened somewhat by Flo's revelation of what she has been up to. Helen's reactions are just what is expected, and seeing the two of them resolve the strain between them was both funny and heartwarming.
As always, the deep friendship among the Magnolias and their support of each other through thick and thin is a force to be reckoned with. I loved Lynn's acceptance into the group and how each of them helps her in their own way. I hope that there will be more books in the future, when the younger generation, who have already shown Magnolia values, are ready for stories of their own.
September 30, 2012
My Review:
I really enjoyed the parts of this book that featured Lynn and Mitch. I liked them together and like that they have a bit of history...i.e. Mitch had a crush on her when they were kids, but it was unrequited because Lynn only had eyes for her soon-to-be-ex-husband Ed. I also liked that there was a bit of suspense/mystery to the story line because no one knows what is truly going on with Ed. All they know is that he's suddenly acting and doing things that are completely out of character for him.
The problem is that most of those things are adversely affecting Lynn's life and she's about to the point of breaking with the stress of it all. She's looking at losing her house and not being able to feed her kids, but she's still trying to take care of everything herself rather than going to her friends for help.
Mitch's wife Amy died a year before as the result of a drunk driver hitting her. He has two grown boys but they are away at college. He's a construction contractor and is re-doing Raylene's house. She just happens to live next door to Lynn and Lynn has caught his eye once again...mainly because he realizes that she's in trouble. You have to love a guy with a protective streak and a white-in-shining-armor complex. Mitch definitely fits that description, but Lynn won't let him save her. She's determined to do it on her own.
Overall, I enjoyed her story. Lynn has two kids...a ten yo boy and a fourteen yo girl. I like the perspective they added to the story and especially like the bond that Jeremy and Mitch form. I also really liked Mitch's boys when they came into the story.
I had NO IDEA what was going on with the soon-to-be-ex until right before it was revealed...definite shocker! I liked how Lynn handled him throughout the book. It would be so easy to make her bitter against him, but the mental health of her kids takes priority for her (as it should be) throughout the entire thing...no matter how angry she is. I liked that she kept a good mothers perspective to their conflict.
Part of these books is the Sweet Magnolias and the Senior Magnolias side stories. Before this book, I've enjoyed them. But in this one, I think the Senior Magnolia story line and the romance between Francis and Donnie took too much page space....to the point where I started skipping those sections. I didn't mind the story, but I just think it ran too heavily within this book when it truly had nothing to do with Mitch and Lynn.
Overall, I have loved getting to read these three books out of this series. Sherryl Woods has a great contemporary, small-town voice and her books are just a pleasure to read. I know there's a few of the previous books from this series that I want to pick up to add to my TBR pile.
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the parts of this book that featured Lynn and Mitch. I liked them together and like that they have a bit of history...i.e. Mitch had a crush on her when they were kids, but it was unrequited because Lynn only had eyes for her soon-to-be-ex-husband Ed. I also liked that there was a bit of suspense/mystery to the story line because no one knows what is truly going on with Ed. All they know is that he's suddenly acting and doing things that are completely out of character for him.
The problem is that most of those things are adversely affecting Lynn's life and she's about to the point of breaking with the stress of it all. She's looking at losing her house and not being able to feed her kids, but she's still trying to take care of everything herself rather than going to her friends for help.
Mitch's wife Amy died a year before as the result of a drunk driver hitting her. He has two grown boys but they are away at college. He's a construction contractor and is re-doing Raylene's house. She just happens to live next door to Lynn and Lynn has caught his eye once again...mainly because he realizes that she's in trouble. You have to love a guy with a protective streak and a white-in-shining-armor complex. Mitch definitely fits that description, but Lynn won't let him save her. She's determined to do it on her own.
Overall, I enjoyed her story. Lynn has two kids...a ten yo boy and a fourteen yo girl. I like the perspective they added to the story and especially like the bond that Jeremy and Mitch form. I also really liked Mitch's boys when they came into the story.
I had NO IDEA what was going on with the soon-to-be-ex until right before it was revealed...definite shocker! I liked how Lynn handled him throughout the book. It would be so easy to make her bitter against him, but the mental health of her kids takes priority for her (as it should be) throughout the entire thing...no matter how angry she is. I liked that she kept a good mothers perspective to their conflict.
Part of these books is the Sweet Magnolias and the Senior Magnolias side stories. Before this book, I've enjoyed them. But in this one, I think the Senior Magnolia story line and the romance between Francis and Donnie took too much page space....to the point where I started skipping those sections. I didn't mind the story, but I just think it ran too heavily within this book when it truly had nothing to do with Mitch and Lynn.
Overall, I have loved getting to read these three books out of this series. Sherryl Woods has a great contemporary, small-town voice and her books are just a pleasure to read. I know there's a few of the previous books from this series that I want to pick up to add to my TBR pile.
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2021
I hate to see this series end
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2021
I gave this book 4/5 stars because of how easy and pleasant it was to read it. Yea, predictable story. Only one big twist that I wasn’t expecting but other than that I always knew where the story was going. It was a nice change from my typical reads, I needed something light given the current climate.
Also, I know this is book number ten of the series. This is the first book I’ve read of the series. You don’t really need to read the other ones to understand this one.
I’ll most likely pick up the other books of the series and give those a try as well!
Also, I know this is book number ten of the series. This is the first book I’ve read of the series. You don’t really need to read the other ones to understand this one.
I’ll most likely pick up the other books of the series and give those a try as well!
October 21, 2017
At first I just thought this book was okay to boring, but the deeper I got into it the more Lynn annoyed me along with the same plot repeated. Unfortunately this series should have ended after the first 4 books; the rest have been yawn worthy to highly irritating. In this installment, we have ....yet another woman/doormat who can't take care of her life or her children's as a deadbeat man walks out. And then Lynn turned very judgmental on Mitch, the man who is nothing but supportive of her. The man had one brief period in his adult life when he drank more than usual right after his wife was killed - that does not make an alcoholic. Yet she accuses him of it multiple times and treats him pretty poorly throughout the story.
And the author did a terrible job with the Ed reveal - after dragging it out for the entire book, he comes out to Lynn.....then we're just left hanging except a mention that it did come out in Serenity. No word on how his snotty parents took the news, how it affected the insurance agency; how he explained it to his children & how they adjusted. And who was blackmailing him?
And the author did a terrible job with the Ed reveal - after dragging it out for the entire book, he comes out to Lynn.....then we're just left hanging except a mention that it did come out in Serenity. No word on how his snotty parents took the news, how it affected the insurance agency; how he explained it to his children & how they adjusted. And who was blackmailing him?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2022
Once again predictable, but a sweet story. I enjoyed this series very much.
August 7, 2012
I don't often "fall in love" with the heroes of romance novels, but if anything happened to my wonderful husband, I hope there is a Mitch in my life. Actually, being the independent cuss I am I'd probably reject him and his help, but it made for a good read. Mitch is just getting life on a good and even keel after losing his wife. Lynn is in the process of being divorced (her husband's idea, not hers) and besides feeling the sting of rejection, she's a woman who has always stayed home with kids who is now in deep financial trouble because her ex isn't meeting his financial obligations. She doesn't want to impose on Mitch or her friends (the gang from earlier Sweet Magnolias books) but they rally to her support despite that.
If it's important to you; Mitch and Lynn end up in bed before they are married and Mitch allows his son's fiancee and son to share a bed; however, in neither case do we get to watch the action.
I've read quite a few of the Sweet Magnolias books but this one has been my favorite. Grade B+
If it's important to you; Mitch and Lynn end up in bed before they are married and Mitch allows his son's fiancee and son to share a bed; however, in neither case do we get to watch the action.
I've read quite a few of the Sweet Magnolias books but this one has been my favorite. Grade B+
September 11, 2012
Great book. I really enjoyed another adventure of the Sweet Magnolias. Never a dull moment with them.I loved being a part of their lives again. It was so sad the way Lynn's husband treated her after asking for a divorce. Leaving her with less than $25 in their checking account and she had 2 kids to feed and put a roof over their heads. She was one amazing woman. Glad she had such wonderful people helping her out. She also gets back in touch with Mitch who had a crush on her in high school.The senior magnolias are so funny. Glad things worked out between Flo and her daughter Helen. I loved the ending. Hoping there will be more Sweet Magnolia books in the future.
January 23, 2013
I had a hard time liking the main character, Lynn. She was too judgemental for me. People tried to help her but she pushed them away. I know lots of authors make their characters independent but this one went further than I would like to see. I had a very hard time getting into this book and it took me a very long time to read it. When I find a book I like I won't put it down but this one spent more time down than being read. Sorry, maybe it's just me.
June 16, 2021
This one dragged for me, but when I felt like it was getting interesting, it wrapped up so quickly! Excited to read the last book
March 21, 2022
I’m not ready for this series to end! I’ve enjoyed every book so far! This one did not disappoint! I love a happy ending and how we get to follow the stories of other ppl throughout the town as the stories continue.
July 3, 2023
Two-haiku review:
She's getting divorced
Her husband's not paying bills
So she works three jobs
Nice senior subplot
Fairly surprising ending
Tho I had guessed it
She's getting divorced
Her husband's not paying bills
So she works three jobs
Nice senior subplot
Fairly surprising ending
Tho I had guessed it
January 25, 2024
This was a cute book from the series. I like how there is only a little drama in this book and how prominent the side characters are. I’m always really invested in their storylines as well.
August 17, 2024
I have definitely enjoyed reading all of the sweet magnolias books this one was also very well written and I always love seeing where the original sweet magnolias are. This had some good updates on the senior magnolias which I always love reading about!
February 23, 2025
The main characters story was very sweet!
August 8, 2012
4 Blue Ribbon Review courtesy of Romance Junkies. After the loss of his wife, contractor Mitch Franklin is just trying to stay busy until his sons come home from college. When his high school crush experiences financial disaster due to her soon-to-be ex-husband, Mitch can't leave a damsel in distress, especially when she has two young children to support. Will his high school crush be reciprocated, or is love too late for this empty nester and a struggling single mom?When Lynn Morrow's husband, Ed, walked away from their marriage, Lynn had no clue it was coming, or what he'd leave her to deal with, nor the reasons for such an upheaval in their lives. She never expected him to leave her with no money for food, plus a house near foreclosure, forced to fend for herself and their two children alone. Their marriage had never been passionate, but Lynn felt it had been comfortable. How she moves on depends completely on putting her two children first, but will there be enough room for her to heal as well?
Mitch Franklin tries to stay busy with his contracting business so he spends less time thinking about the loss of his wife, who was killed by a drunk driver a year ago. With his sons off to college, being an empty nester alone has caused more than one change in his lifestyle. Luckily, his good friends and current clients, Raylene and Carter, invite him frequently for dinner after he's spent the day working on their addition. He loves the camaraderie but can he survive Raylene's penchant for match-making? Can Raylene help it if Lynn and her kids live right next door and are naturally invited for dinner too?
Mitch and Lynn knew each other as teens but Mitch's crush on Lynn was never reciprocated because she only had eyes for Ed. It doesn't take Raylene long to recognize a boy's crush being rekindled now as a man. Will Lynn be able to resist the man who looks way too fine in a pair of jeans and who seems to be right there whenever she needs him most? Or will Lynn's soon-to-be ex-husband douse the flames with one obstacle after another?
Mitch and Lynn have so much to overcome to get even close to a happy-ever-after that their story often feels like waves ebbing, flowing and then crashing against a rocky shore. Keep some tissues handy because they're not the only ones in emotional upheaval in the small town of Serenity, North Carolina. I especially enjoyed catching up with the Senior Magnolias ‒ Liz, Flo and Francis. Problems hinted at in book eight and book nine are wrapped up in an often emotional, yet satisfactory, way for these three good friends. Readers will also enjoy a catch-up with Karen and Elliott from book eight in the SWEET MAGNOLIAS series, MIDNIGHT PROMISES.
WHERE AZALEAS BLOOM completes this latest trilogy in the SWEET MAGNOLIAS series with a nostalgic feeling for good friends and how they make life's best moments that much sweeter. If you haven't tried this series yet, this summer's trilogy that includes MIDNIGHT PROMISES, CATCHING FIREFLIES and WHERE AZALEAS BLOOM is a great place to start. Each story is unique, but revisiting with favorite characters is a big part of the fun. Author Sherryl Woods excels at touching on sensitive subjects with realism, shaking rather than stirring, then resolving with love.
July 7, 2012
This is the tenth book in the Sweet Magnolias series and the third book in the newest trilogy that has been released. This one was all about Lynn (a struggling mom of two) and Mitch. Unless I'm mistaken, I don't recall meeting these characters in any of the previous books but many of the recurring characters turned up in this one.
A brief synopsis first. Lynn is just reeling from the understanding that she will not be reconciling with her husband (Ed) and is now in an embittered divorce battle with him. To top it off, he hasn't been paying child support and this is forcing Lynn to take extra jobs to feed her family (she has two children). Mitch has known Lynn since high school and while he's doing work on her next door neighbors house (Raylene) he sees that she is struggling with something in life. Being the sweet charming man that he is, he wiggles his way into Lynn's life to try and help her out. He offers her a job helping do his paperwork for him and he also begins to notice that his high school crush on her is still firmly in place. Mitch is a widower and is balancing his grief over his wife with his new found desire to move on with a new woman. The two of them try to work out their feelings with each other while battling exes, family concerns, money problems and good old fashion town gossip. It almost seems like it's impossible for either to be happy!
I think this book might actually be my favorite out of the recent trio of books released. I had this soft spot for Lynn and all she was being forced to go through. I couldn't believe what Ed was doing to her and I just wanted to beat him over the head with an umbrella. And Mitch was such a sweetheart. He was not only trying to help out Lynn but he really did an old fashioned courting and that was so awesome. I have to say the "big moment" came much later in the book than I think happened in the others but that just went along with the characters. They had so much respect for eachother and it was nice to have a slow build of attraction and sexual heat between the two. I kept saying to myself "it will happen!" and it most certainly did!
The side plot of Helen battling for Lynn in court was interesting but more interesting was Helen's mom's plot! So funny. I can't even go into detail because I don't want to ruin it. But I was definitely happy with how things turned out there.
Ed's story really surprised me. I'm actually curious if we'll get any details about how he is handling his new life and whether he's been up front with people. Maybe a little mini ebook?
Now it's my unhappy duty to wait for the next trio to come out. What a bummer. I'll have to content myself with re-reading until a new release is coming.
A brief synopsis first. Lynn is just reeling from the understanding that she will not be reconciling with her husband (Ed) and is now in an embittered divorce battle with him. To top it off, he hasn't been paying child support and this is forcing Lynn to take extra jobs to feed her family (she has two children). Mitch has known Lynn since high school and while he's doing work on her next door neighbors house (Raylene) he sees that she is struggling with something in life. Being the sweet charming man that he is, he wiggles his way into Lynn's life to try and help her out. He offers her a job helping do his paperwork for him and he also begins to notice that his high school crush on her is still firmly in place. Mitch is a widower and is balancing his grief over his wife with his new found desire to move on with a new woman. The two of them try to work out their feelings with each other while battling exes, family concerns, money problems and good old fashion town gossip. It almost seems like it's impossible for either to be happy!
I think this book might actually be my favorite out of the recent trio of books released. I had this soft spot for Lynn and all she was being forced to go through. I couldn't believe what Ed was doing to her and I just wanted to beat him over the head with an umbrella. And Mitch was such a sweetheart. He was not only trying to help out Lynn but he really did an old fashioned courting and that was so awesome. I have to say the "big moment" came much later in the book than I think happened in the others but that just went along with the characters. They had so much respect for eachother and it was nice to have a slow build of attraction and sexual heat between the two. I kept saying to myself "it will happen!" and it most certainly did!
The side plot of Helen battling for Lynn in court was interesting but more interesting was Helen's mom's plot! So funny. I can't even go into detail because I don't want to ruin it. But I was definitely happy with how things turned out there.
Ed's story really surprised me. I'm actually curious if we'll get any details about how he is handling his new life and whether he's been up front with people. Maybe a little mini ebook?
Now it's my unhappy duty to wait for the next trio to come out. What a bummer. I'll have to content myself with re-reading until a new release is coming.
May 28, 2017
This is book #10 in the Sweet Magnolias series by Sherryl Woods. I loved this book so much. It's the story of Lynn Morrow and Mitch Franklin who knew each other in their childhood. Mitch had a crush on Lynn back then but Lynn only had eyes for her soon to be ex-husband, Ed.
Lynn is Raylene and Carter Rollins' next door neighbor and Mitch is the contractor who is working on her family room edition. He lost his wife in an accident involving a drunk driver. His two sons are away at college and so he often has supper with Raylene and Carter. Lynn and her children are at supper one night and he walks them home afterward. His interest is ignited again.
Lynn's husband has asked for a divorce and is not taking care of supporting she and their two children. Mitch begins to stop by often and gives her a job so she can buy groceries. He knows her pride has interfered with her accepting help. Raylene gets wind of his interest in her and meddles a bit. Another of the Sweet Magnolias, Helen is Lynn's attorney.
This is another love story with all the magic Sherryl Woods brings. One of the most romantic scenes is the Azalea garden Mitch plants in Lynn's yard as a surprise. I really loved this book.
Lynn is Raylene and Carter Rollins' next door neighbor and Mitch is the contractor who is working on her family room edition. He lost his wife in an accident involving a drunk driver. His two sons are away at college and so he often has supper with Raylene and Carter. Lynn and her children are at supper one night and he walks them home afterward. His interest is ignited again.
Lynn's husband has asked for a divorce and is not taking care of supporting she and their two children. Mitch begins to stop by often and gives her a job so she can buy groceries. He knows her pride has interfered with her accepting help. Raylene gets wind of his interest in her and meddles a bit. Another of the Sweet Magnolias, Helen is Lynn's attorney.
This is another love story with all the magic Sherryl Woods brings. One of the most romantic scenes is the Azalea garden Mitch plants in Lynn's yard as a surprise. I really loved this book.
February 16, 2014
Reviewed by Aubrey
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
A great return to Serenity where everyone loves each other and not many secrets are kept. Lynn Morrow, the heroine, finds herself in a bind when her ex-husband is not holding up his end of the bargain. Mitch Franklin, is an unlikely hero in that his wife recently passed away and just doesn’t physically fit a typical here with his red hair.
I was totally shocked at why Lynn’s ex was being such a jerk. Definitely something I never would have guessed. I love how Woods can keep you guessing and where you want to read the whole book in one sitting. I finished the novel and was quite sad because I want more Sweet Magnolias.
Mitch has a long way to win Lynn over. She doesn’t think she is ready for a relationship or that she deserves someone like Mitch. Mitch is the type of guy we all wish existed. He is thoughtful, caring and honest.
You get to find out what’s going on with the other Sweet Magnolias but mainly you find out a lot about Raylene and how she is doing. Her husband Carter befriends Mitch which makes it easier for Lynn.
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
A great return to Serenity where everyone loves each other and not many secrets are kept. Lynn Morrow, the heroine, finds herself in a bind when her ex-husband is not holding up his end of the bargain. Mitch Franklin, is an unlikely hero in that his wife recently passed away and just doesn’t physically fit a typical here with his red hair.
I was totally shocked at why Lynn’s ex was being such a jerk. Definitely something I never would have guessed. I love how Woods can keep you guessing and where you want to read the whole book in one sitting. I finished the novel and was quite sad because I want more Sweet Magnolias.
Mitch has a long way to win Lynn over. She doesn’t think she is ready for a relationship or that she deserves someone like Mitch. Mitch is the type of guy we all wish existed. He is thoughtful, caring and honest.
You get to find out what’s going on with the other Sweet Magnolias but mainly you find out a lot about Raylene and how she is doing. Her husband Carter befriends Mitch which makes it easier for Lynn.
June 6, 2023
A Hallmark type book about second love. A mom in the midst of divorce befriends a guy who had a crush on her in high school. Another storyline is about 3 elderly friends and the point when one of them needs to go into assisted living. It was another book from this author about the importance of true friends.
March 2, 2016
Good surprise twist!
March 2, 2025
Sherryl Woods never fails to write a beautiful story. 🌹
June 14, 2023
Where Azaleas Bloom: by Sherryl Woods
(The Sweet Magnolias Book 10 of 11 )
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book certainly keeps the standards up on the series. Sherryl hasn’t let her readers down. This book deals with divorce and the many ugly details that can be attached to it.
Lynn Morrow has reached the end of her money. Her estranged husband, Ed, is suppose to pay the mortgage and support for her and the kids; but he hasn’t been. The bank is threatening foreclosure since he hasn’t paid the mortgage for months and she is down to $24.00 for groceries and the bills. She has gone to work at Raylene’s boutique; but she would need more hours or more commissions to make a difference. She would just have to find another job. Where is Ed and why is he acting like this? She has known him since grade school and he has never acted like this.
Raylene has Lynn and her family over to dinner and has asked Mitch Franklin, the contractor and friend who is adding to their house, to stay. She knows they have known each other since seventh grade and thinks they might make a good match. Besides, it gives her a chance to help Lynn with meals. Something has to be done to help her during this divorce; but she has to be careful as Lynn won’t take charity.
Mitch had a crush on Lynn when they were in seventh grade; but Lynn had eyes for no one but Ed Morrow. He had gotten married and had two almost grown boys; but his Amy had died in an accident. He had grieved but now was getting on with his life. He feels protective towards Lynn and wants to see where this leads. But will she give him a chance?
(The Sweet Magnolias Book 10 of 11 )
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book certainly keeps the standards up on the series. Sherryl hasn’t let her readers down. This book deals with divorce and the many ugly details that can be attached to it.
Lynn Morrow has reached the end of her money. Her estranged husband, Ed, is suppose to pay the mortgage and support for her and the kids; but he hasn’t been. The bank is threatening foreclosure since he hasn’t paid the mortgage for months and she is down to $24.00 for groceries and the bills. She has gone to work at Raylene’s boutique; but she would need more hours or more commissions to make a difference. She would just have to find another job. Where is Ed and why is he acting like this? She has known him since grade school and he has never acted like this.
Raylene has Lynn and her family over to dinner and has asked Mitch Franklin, the contractor and friend who is adding to their house, to stay. She knows they have known each other since seventh grade and thinks they might make a good match. Besides, it gives her a chance to help Lynn with meals. Something has to be done to help her during this divorce; but she has to be careful as Lynn won’t take charity.
Mitch had a crush on Lynn when they were in seventh grade; but Lynn had eyes for no one but Ed Morrow. He had gotten married and had two almost grown boys; but his Amy had died in an accident. He had grieved but now was getting on with his life. He feels protective towards Lynn and wants to see where this leads. But will she give him a chance?
August 1, 2023
To put it simply, Woods cannot help but force two characters to be together, even when every red flag is waving in their faces.
Lynn and Mitch had no business being together. Lynn is in the middle of a tumultuous divorce, can barely put food on her table, and is struggling to find her courage to stand up to those that talk down to her. Mitch just lost his wife, A YEAR AGO. Why in the world is anyone forcing these two together?
Mitch was such a sweetheart and probably one of my favorite characters from the whole "Sweet Magnolias" series. He cares so much about others and does whatever he can to help. He takes much pride in his work and just seems like a good guy. For Ed to drag him into his divorce and for Lynn to allow it, is just unfair. And for Lynn to throw his "drinking problem" in his face, over and over again, just didn't make sense. Mitch began to drink excessively because his WIFE DIED, but he stopped himself. He recognized it was becoming an issue and put a stop to it. So why does everyone bring this up and make it an issue? In my opinion, Mitch deserves much more than he was given.
Also, Woods never said who was the person blackmailing Ed. And the build-up to his "big secret," dragged on. But, it did take me by surprise. I just wish Woods have included how his parents/town/kids reacted, instead of making it an after thought.
Lynn and Mitch had no business being together. Lynn is in the middle of a tumultuous divorce, can barely put food on her table, and is struggling to find her courage to stand up to those that talk down to her. Mitch just lost his wife, A YEAR AGO. Why in the world is anyone forcing these two together?
Mitch was such a sweetheart and probably one of my favorite characters from the whole "Sweet Magnolias" series. He cares so much about others and does whatever he can to help. He takes much pride in his work and just seems like a good guy. For Ed to drag him into his divorce and for Lynn to allow it, is just unfair. And for Lynn to throw his "drinking problem" in his face, over and over again, just didn't make sense. Mitch began to drink excessively because his WIFE DIED, but he stopped himself. He recognized it was becoming an issue and put a stop to it. So why does everyone bring this up and make it an issue? In my opinion, Mitch deserves much more than he was given.
Also, Woods never said who was the person blackmailing Ed. And the build-up to his "big secret," dragged on. But, it did take me by surprise. I just wish Woods have included how his parents/town/kids reacted, instead of making it an after thought.
December 14, 2022
Ini buku kesepuluh dari seri Magnolia. Saya sudah agak lama membaca buku satu sampai sembilan jadi agak lupa dengan tokoh - tokoh sebelumnya padahal banyak dari mereka yang muncul di sini dan pastinya punya kaitan dengan tokoh utama, karena mereka di kota kecil yang sama, Serenity. Sayangnya lagi tokoh - tokoh itu banyak mengambil peran di novel ini sehingga cerita utamanya jadi terpinggirkan. Please deh, fokuslah dengan Mitch dan Lynn, banyakinlah konflik antar mereka apalagi mereka punya masing - masing dua anak dari pernikahan terdahulu. Btw, yang menjadi the villain adalah Ed, mantan suami Lynn. Pokoknya lengkaplah kejahatan dia, dari mengosongkan rekening bersama, tidak membayar tunjangan anak, cicilan rumah sehingga membuat Lynn bekerja di tiga tempat padahal mereka belum resmi bercerai. Di akhir - akhir novel terungkap mengapa Ed mengajukan perceraian karena dia melakukan affair dengan pengacaranya sendiri - cowok ya alias mereka pasangan gay. Mereka berhubungan sudah lama mungkin dari awal pernikahan. Bukan ayah yang baik dan suami yang baik pula. Btw lagi, hubungan antara Lynn dan Mitch dimulai ketika Lynn masih dalam proses perceraian, belum final walau sudah pisah rumah.
2,5⭐
2,5⭐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2023
I've never wanted to punch a character I'm the jaw more then I did Ed! Okay, well maybe when I read new moon and Edward left Bella, but in all honesty that was a book slamming against a wall moment. This book definitely pulled my feelings out and had me talking out loud! Definitely one of my favorites from this series.
This book got straight to it! Boy do I ever want to punch Ed right in his Weasley face! Ugh, whatever he has done with the slime ball lawyer Jim is ridiculous. Thank goodness Lynn has raylene next door and mitch! I'm rooting for those 2. My heart breaks for Frances and everyone who cares about her. It's such a hard thing to watch your loved ones memory slowly drift away.
Sneaky Ed and Jimmy. How dare Ed do that when his egos hurt! Ypu don't want your ex wife to find someone else or for them to be there when your clearly not then don't get the divorce you wanted. little rat bastard. Thank goodness Lynn is mad enough to get Helen to go for him and pull out all the stops. I hope he sinks! Slithered little worm.
Talk about a shock factor in the ending! I was beginning to wonder if that was the case but I quickly decided no it wasn't! I was wrong.
This book got straight to it! Boy do I ever want to punch Ed right in his Weasley face! Ugh, whatever he has done with the slime ball lawyer Jim is ridiculous. Thank goodness Lynn has raylene next door and mitch! I'm rooting for those 2. My heart breaks for Frances and everyone who cares about her. It's such a hard thing to watch your loved ones memory slowly drift away.
Sneaky Ed and Jimmy. How dare Ed do that when his egos hurt! Ypu don't want your ex wife to find someone else or for them to be there when your clearly not then don't get the divorce you wanted. little rat bastard. Thank goodness Lynn is mad enough to get Helen to go for him and pull out all the stops. I hope he sinks! Slithered little worm.
Talk about a shock factor in the ending! I was beginning to wonder if that was the case but I quickly decided no it wasn't! I was wrong.
August 27, 2021
Not really so much of a review as it is a comment on the books as a whole. In a lot of these books characters are pregnant and married, and then in the next book there's no mention of babies or anything. And names are regularly goofed/changed. You'd think if you're writing a series of books there'd be an editor or assistant looking at your work and saying "Oh, they're pregnant two books ago we should have a baby name and say things like 'Karen and Elliot brought over their new baby' but there's no mention of how long there was between each book."
And in the first book it's Mrs. Reid and she teaches history. But in 'Catching Fireflies' she's single and teaching English. And ages/ body descriptions never match. Mitch is overweight and older in 'Stealing Home' but in 'Where Azaleas Bloom' he is in his 40s and looks good in jeans? Maybe it's bothering me because I'm reading them all back to back, but I think a good editor would have caught most of these mistakes if not all of them.
And in the first book it's Mrs. Reid and she teaches history. But in 'Catching Fireflies' she's single and teaching English. And ages/ body descriptions never match. Mitch is overweight and older in 'Stealing Home' but in 'Where Azaleas Bloom' he is in his 40s and looks good in jeans? Maybe it's bothering me because I'm reading them all back to back, but I think a good editor would have caught most of these mistakes if not all of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2022
Lynn is a single mom trying to deal with the fallout of the divorce she is going through. Her ex has left her with very little money to get buy and pay bills. Of her two kids her daughter understands it more and is distraught and wants to help her mom.
Mitch is someone she went to school with. He had a thing for her when they were in school together but all Lynn saw was Ed. He is working next door at Raylene's so they see each other quite a bit. He wants to help her but she is to proud for that.
While the divorce proceedings are contentious Mitch is there to listen. They are liking each other but taking things extremely slow.
All the Sweet Magnolias are around. I am glad as I love visiting with them. They take in Lynn and make her a part of them
We read more about Frances too! It is so fun for the characters to keep showing up!
This is another must read. You will have to read to see how things turn out for Lynn, Mitch and the rest of the Magnolias.
Mitch is someone she went to school with. He had a thing for her when they were in school together but all Lynn saw was Ed. He is working next door at Raylene's so they see each other quite a bit. He wants to help her but she is to proud for that.
While the divorce proceedings are contentious Mitch is there to listen. They are liking each other but taking things extremely slow.
All the Sweet Magnolias are around. I am glad as I love visiting with them. They take in Lynn and make her a part of them
We read more about Frances too! It is so fun for the characters to keep showing up!
This is another must read. You will have to read to see how things turn out for Lynn, Mitch and the rest of the Magnolias.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews