Falling in love with Daisy was easy for Jack. But finding the courage to tell her becomes problematic when his secret feelings lead to even bigger complications. From the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom and A December Bride (now beloved Hallmark Original movies) comes the final book in the Blue Ridge Romance series. After two years of counseling sessions with Daisy Pendleton, Pastor … Pendleton, Pastor Jack McReady has earned a permanent spot in her life as a spiritual leader–and nothing more. Jack would never risk losing her trust by exposing the depths of his heart, but he’s hopelessly in love with her.
Daisy loves her southern small-town life and her job at her family-run flower shop, but she doesn’t have the thing she longs for most: someone to share it with. Her recent foray into online dating has been a disaster–until she meets TJ.
Jack could kill his friend Noah for using his initials and some indistinct photos to set up a profile on the dating app Daisy is using. But when he’s finally afforded the opportunity to show her a different side of himself, he’s sucked into the plan before he has time for second thoughts.
Online, Daisy shares some of her greatest fears with TJ, but in person, Jack and Daisy are spending more time together. When a devastating family secret surfaces, Daisy knows that only her trusted friend and counselor can bring her comfort. Jack wants nothing more than to be both men for Daisy, but revealing his secret will prove to be the ultimate test of Daisy’s grace.
“I have never read a romance by Denise Hunter that didn’t sweep me away into a happily ever after. Treat yourself!” –Robin Lee Hatcher, bestselling author of Who I Am with You
“Move over You’ve Got Mail because in Denise Hunter’s On Magnolia Lane you’ve got an e-romance with enough RAM (romance and magic) not only to sputter your software, but to tug at your heart while touching your soul. Easily one of the top romance writers in the CBA, Hunter is a master at inspirational love stories that linger in one’s memory–and hard drive–long after the last page.” –Julie Lessman, award-winning author
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On Magnolia Lane is a wonderful ending to Denise Hunter’s Blue Ridge Romance series. In this story two characters that have appeared in the previous two books take center stage. Daisy Pendleton, the local florist has been receiving counseling from her pastor, Jack McReady. Problem is, he’s fallen in love with her and she’s never seen him as anything more than her friend and pastor. Jack can’t seem to figure out how to make her see him as just a man, so when his friends find out that Daisy is on a dating website they make Jack a profile, using his initials (TJ) and a photo that hides his true identity. Although Jack struggles with this idea at first, he ends up giving in to the idea when another man shows interest in Daisy.
Daisy is looking for a partner in life, so when TJ nudges her, she shows interest and they begin a friendship. Little does she know that this new man in her life is actually her dear friend and pastor! Throughout the story Daisy opens up about her life in different ways to each man, growing close to both…which is actually one and the same. When a woman she’s never met shows up at her flower shop, she discovers that, before she was born, her deceased father was unfaithful to her mother and a sister she knew nothing about was the result. Daisy confides in Pastor Jack about her dad and thus she begins to see Jack in a new light.
At the same time, the local girls shelter is hit by a storm that causes series damage to their home. They have no insurance, so they seek help from Pastor Jack. Daisy has a reputation of being able to organize fundraisers, so Jack asks her to take over and plan one, which she gladly does. This gives the two of them ample time to work together and begin a new relationship. As Daisy grows closer to Jack and TJ at the same time, her feelings are confusing, but the thought of being a pastor’s wife is too daunting to her, so she decides to meet TJ in person. When they make plans to meet, Jack knows that he must tell her the truth, but the night of the fundraiser she accidentally discovers that they are the same person. She is crushed that Jack would deceive her and she runs away. During this time, she realizes that she must forgive her mom and dad for not telling her about her sister. She must show grace to others in the same way that Christ has shown it to her. But will she be able to extend that same grace and forgiveness to Jack?
My favorite part of this story was Jack’s love and devotion to his God. I loved how all throughout the story he prays for those in need and when he believes that he’s lost Daisy, his main concern is for her and to pray for her. It’s a beautiful thing when a man prays for the woman that he loves…even if he can’t have her.
Well done Ms. Hunter…well done! This is a wonderful read that will grab your attention from the very beginning and hold it until the very end!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This contemporary small town romance is filled with interesting characters and a main plot that leaves u turning the pages way into the night.
On Magnolia Lane is the third book in Denise Hunter’s Blue Ridge Romance series. Or maybe the fourth—Sweetbriar Cottage isn’t officially part of the series, but is set in the same small town and features several of the same characters. Yes, the novels can be read as standalone stories, but this is definitely Daisy and Jack’s story and you don’t have to read the earlier books to enjoy it. But I know readers who prefer to read a series in order will want to start with Sweetbriar Cottage (which is still my favourite).
I found the beginning of On Magnolia Lane was somewhat slow.
It took me a while to get into On Magnolia Lane. This could be because I had high expectations (thanks, Sweetbriar Cottage). But I didn’t need to worry, despite the could-be-predictable set-up. This story was as strong as any in the series even though a couple of plot points ran the risk of being cliché.
Daisy runs the family florist business and helps out at Hope House, a home for teenage girls. When Hope House loses its roof in a storm, Daisy is given the task of organising a fundraiser for the house. She can’t do it alone … but help comes from unexpected places.
Pastor Jack has been secretly in love with Daisy for two years.
He thought it was a secret, but his friends know and they sign him up for the online dating app Daisy is using. The two begin a friendship, except she doesn’t know TJ is Jack. So when will Jack tell her the truth?
There were a couple of areas I was less certain about. Jack was a pastor and Daisy a member of his congregation. She’s apparently been going to Jack for counselling for a couple of years (although I never was exactly clear what she was being counselled about, and whether it was appropriate for a single male pastor to be counselling a single female congregation member without supervision, even if the office door was always open).
But the novel wasn’t really a “Christian” novel in the way, say, Sweetbriar Cottage was. Several scenes took place in the church, but the focus seemed to be more on the outward appearance of faith than inward belief.
That contrast was actually a feature of the book, as it came through in the subplot about Daisy’s father—the town mayor who insisted his daughter always act the part. Daisy finds something that challenges her perception of her father, and has to reconcile her memories of him with the lies. Because she doesn’t like lies. Jack helps her work through her issues, which is kind of ironic … And, of course, we’re always waiting for the big reveal, where Daisy finds out what we’ve known all along. How will she react?
Overall, this was a contemporary romance with solid characters, plenty of layers, and unexpected depths. Recommended for contemporary Christian romance fans.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Typically I’ve like Denise Hunter’s book’s in the past that she has written, but this particular book has taken me a very long time to finish. I put it down and have no real interest in finishing the book. Finally, it’s done after weeks of attempts.
The story is about Daisy Pendleton, a co-owner of the local flower shop. Her father died years ago and her mother is in the process of selling the home that Daisy grew up in. If that’s not enough, a figure from her dad’s past comes into her life.
Then we have the pastor, Jack McReady who has a secret interest in Daisy. For two long years he has admired her from afar and is frustrated that he thinks that he may never have a chance with him. But, his friend’s set him up on a dating profile and guess who he is matched with? Daisy! Of course, Jack is using his middle name so Daisy has no idea that the person she is communicating with is her very own pastor.
The story itself has a nice concept and storyline. However, the characters I’m just struggling to like or fall in love with. Daisy seems almost too much of a goody-two shoe character. Then, there is so much dialogue in areas where it could be just shortened and the point is still put across. The rock-climbing event is one that comes to mind.
If the only book of Denise Hunter’s was this book, I probably would not have ever read another book she has written. So if this is your first foray into her books, give her another chance. This one just felt like a book that needed to fill a space on the publisher’s time line and she threw one together.
I received this book from BookLook Bloggers and was happy that the publisher gave me the opportunity to read it.
Wow! This is such a sweet and captivating story!
It did, in fact, reminded me a little of You’ve got mail. And that is one of my all time favorite movies! I love when people fall in love online and don’t have a real idea of who the other person really is…
This is the story of Jack, a community pastor, and Daisy, one of his parishioners. They have been good friends for two years, and Jack has fallen completely in love with her. But the problem is, Daisy only sees Jack for what he is, her counselor, spiritual leader, and unconditional friend. Jack is very afraid of showing his feelings and risking their friendship. Every one else is their community know they are perfect for each other except for them!
So thinks get a bit complicated when their friends set Jack with a hidden identity profile on a dating app that Daisy is using.
Jack wants none of it, and when he wants to delete his profile, he can’t help himself in responding to Daisy’s sweet message, and a new and unique relationship starts growing between them… Daisy is a bit torn between his good friend and this new sweet guy with whom she can trust everything!
I won’t spoil the story. I’ll just say that it was a delightful read full of tender and sweet moments. Even some funny ones too!
The plot has twists that will keep you reading and wanting to know how it will all end!
I loved the characters! Denise Hunter has a way of letting you inside their minds and feelings. My heart rooted for this couple!
And Jack was a swoon worthy hero!
I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Denise Hunter consistently writes swoon-worthy heroes who are human. While readers were introduced to Jack McReady in the first to books of the Blue Ridge Sunrise series, this rock-climbing pastor gets the spotlight in On Magnolia Lane.
I love that Pastor Jack is a listener and that he’s held a torch for a certain florist for a couple years. Hunter explores the difficulties (and challenges) of a single man in a ministry role well. I think there’s a reason God pairs most pastors up while they’re in college.
Daisy is a great complement to Jack. She’s got a servant’s heart, she’s a little shy and unsure of herself, but she finds comfort in talking to Pastor Jack (although she doesn’t see him as more than Pastor Jack). But Daisy’s life is about to get complicated with a visitor to town, a revelation about her father, and an online relationship that has potential.
On Magnolia Lane is a romance that cautions readers against placing anyone on a pedestal. That fall is a hard one for both the person sitting on top and the person looking up to them.
Hunter has a natural knack for bringing certain issues into her stories organically. This book is no different with discussions about learning disabilities as well as infidelity. It’s another must-read for fans of a good romance with plenty of sigh-worthy moments.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This is third book in the Blue Ridge series. On Magnolia Lane provides the reader with another glimpse of characters from this community. This book focuses on Daisy and Pastor Jack. The book begins with Daisy discovering a revelation of something that occurred in her family that she didn’t know. Pastor Jack has liked Daisy for the longest, but is extremely shy. Will they be able to work through their feelings? Ms. Hunter’s books are refreshing and seem real. She addresses several different situations. I really enjoyed reading this book and had been looking forward to it! Ms. Hunter writes extremely believable, romantic tales! This book also provides glimpses of the characters from the previous books. I highly recommend this book and the other books in the series! You will not be disappointed in the book!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.
As beautiful as the cover, this story brings together two people who share a love of God & community. This desire to serve others is not something that every person has. We’ve met both of these characters previously in this series from Denise Hunter, set in Georgia. They are the final 2 in a group of longtime friends. Jack, is the Pastor of Daisy’s church, and someone she has looked up to and considered a good friend for many years. However, she has never seen him as anything more than that. He has been harboring a love for her the last 2 years. Being the shy and reserved individual he is, he has never shown any of that to her. Fearful of loosing her respect and friendship he’d rather endure the status quo of watching her dancing and entertaining the attentions of other admirers. As this story began I thought to myself, just how is Denise going to bring these two together?! What follows was a story so sweet & tender, unhurried in its pace, that mirrors the personalities of both Jack & Daisy. With a few surprises in store that will turn Daisy’s world on its end, she may find that what she usually needed from Jack, may have just stepped up a level. My heart flip flopped in all the right moments. Completely loved this story.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson & Netgalley for the complimentary eARC. This is my honest review.
Sometimes I love Denise Hunter’s books, and sometimes they are just so so for me. This one was just so so. I enjoyed the setting, but felt like the main characters were a little oblivious at times. The story seemed to drag on at the beginning but picked up later in the book. The issues that the heroine encountered with her not being “good enough” really resonated with me and I enjoyed seeing how she overcame that. I did not feel much chemistry between the main characters until the very end.
Thanks NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
ON MAGNOLIA LANE. by Denise Hunter. Blue Ridge Romance 3.
Paster Jack she still calls him after two years of appointments. For him.love
happened during those time. Was an on line dating service the answer for her, she meets a TJ, looks forward to their talks. A dance with her, when out
with friends, could that finally bring them together. Interesting story, of her, wanting to find the Mr.Right and for Jack how to take that first step. They both ministered to others, always ready to help. An unexpected visitor, taught her, to be forgiving. All of the authors books have an insite of Christian values, and enjoyable to read. Given ARC by Thomas Nelson for my voluntary review and my honest opinion. EllenOceanside
What a sweet read. Jack & Daisy make a cute couple. Jack is a young pastor lacking self confidence when he’s talking to Daisy. His feelings come out in the awkward way he converses with Daisy when they are talking personally. It’s the reason why his friends manage to draw him into the deception with the dating app.
Daisy lacks self confidence due to her dyslexia & how she perceives that as not being smart enough. It takes working with another young girl to get her diagnosed to make Daisy realize that it’s a disability, not ignorance. Daisy also has a problem with putting people up on a pedestal & not seeing them as human beings with faults. Her faith gets a work out when a secret from her parents past becomes known & Daisy struggles with forgiveness. She has the same problem with Jack. Can they find a way to their future together?
These characters are real with faults that everyone has. I love that this story shows a pastor as a typical young man with his own faults & not perfect. Too many people expect them to be above temptations & godlike instead of typical humans capable of making mistakes. There are so many supporting characters that aid in telling this story & they all have vital parts. This was an enjoyable read for a dreary weekend day.
I’ve been wanting to read a Denise Hunter book for a while now. I didn’t realize that her books are faith based or Christian romance. It didn’t bother me, I just wasn’t expecting it. When Pastor Jack was introduced as one of the main characters, I was just a little surprised.
Pastor Jack’s relationship with Daisy was also a surprise to me. He was in love with her, but she had no idea. They even spent quite a bit of time alone as her counseled her. The saving grace for me was that her friends and his all knew, otherwise I would have found it hard to buy.
Their coming together was sort of reminiscent of the movie You’ve Got Mail–the friendship that they established in person, the betrayal of him as someone else on the internet and her slow realization that he was actually the one she loved. Since that is one of my favorite movies, I loved it! This book had a lot to do with being brave and going after what you want. It also had a lot to do with grace and forgiveness. It’s a lesson we all could use. On Magnolia Lane is a good, sweet, clean,faith based novel.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
Award winning author Denise Hunter’s latest novel, On Magnolia Lane, provides a satisfying conclusion to her Blue Ridge Romance series. It can also be read as a stand alone novel since the author provides background information on the minor characters in the story. Denise Hunter thoroughly captivates her readers with a heartwarming story that demonstrates the healing power of forgiveness through faith and love. Hunter tells the story of Daisy Pendleton who works at her family owned flower shop and Pastor Jack McReady, who has served a friend and confidant to Daisy through his work at the church. Daisy’s time together with Jack helps her to face family secrets from the past and possibly a chance at finding true love.
What an incredible story from Denise Hunter! She is a master storyteller, and readers will thoroughly enjoy this final book of the Blue Ridge series. Fans of the movie “You Got Mail” with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan will enjoy this 2018 variation of online dating and the obstacles that occur when one of the parties involved does not realize that they know each other in real life as well as online. I thoroughly enjoyed the tidbits of information and updates about characters from her previous books in the series. The story had a very rewarding ending, but I was enjoying it so much that I hated to see it end! This is Denise Hunter at her best!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine.
Pastor Jack McReady has secretly carried a torch for Daisy for two long years. She’s a member of his congregation, after all, and she’ll never see him as more than a trusted counselor. Jack’s best friend Noah has taken every opportunity to encourage his lovesick friend, but when Noah catches wind that Daisy has joined an online dating site, he takes matters into his own hands and orchestrates a meet-cute of the most unconventional kind.
Owner of the local flower shop, Daisy Pendleton is content with her small-town life, but she’d sure like someone to share it with. After several disastrous first dates, she’s about to give up—and then she finds a seemingly wonderful man online. Daisy gets to know TJ through a series of messages but finds herself spending more time with Pastor Jack outside of the church at the same time. What she doesn’t know is that her online prospect and Jack are one and the same.
Just as Daisy’s love life starts to look promising, a mysterious woman appears in town. Daisy is faced with a revelation about her family that turns her world upside down, and she looks to both TJ and Jack for help.
Jack must find a way to reveal himself as her online suitor without breaking her heart and losing her trust. As Daisy faces Jack’s betrayal, she’ll have to learn to extend grace to herself, her family, and the man she’s grown to love.
Jack and Daisy are both looking for love. Jack knows who he loves Daisy. But doesn’t know how to express himself. He thinks he’s too old for her and besides he’s her pastor. What would people think? Daisy wants to find love. But where to look? An interesting read about Jack and Daisy as they come to find love.
On a side note. I am a pastor’s wife and I could relate to how Jack felt about living in a fish bowl. Pastor’s are human beings and have feelings just like everyone else.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.