On Magnolia Lane is the third book in the Blue Ridge series. This is Jack and Daisy's story. For the most part, I enjoyed the story. The romance was the best part of it. Jack is more of an understated beta-male and Daisy is just kind of clueless and can't see who is right in front of her. I was rooting for them and loved their HEA.

The book also deals with forgiveness. There are a couple of side stories. One of which helps Daisy learn a lesson that we are all human and what can happen when we put someone up on a pedestal. I did find that the book dragged in a few places. However, it ended up being an enjoyable clean read.

The third in a series and this is one of those series where each book centers around a different character but the common denominator is it taking place in the same location. These books are Christian fiction, but with the sweetest of romances.

This story revolves around Pastor Jack and a woman who has become a friend but is she more than just a member of his church. His friends notice that Jack could be interested and know that she is on a dating app so they sign him up in hopes of them connecting and something growing. As in all romance books, you know the ending almost from the beginning, but the joy of reading is the journey to get there.

The thing I love most about Denise Hunter and her books are they are the best parts of romance books that I love. There is a story and characters, but as it being Christian fiction you are missing out on the sexy times. They are pure and sweet and I just love curling up with them.

I think the way Denise Hunter reads it is just so easy to get swept up in the story and you look up and you are half way or done! I hope there are more to come in this series.

I loved being back with the friendly people who populate of this small town. This book focuses on Pastor jack and Daisy. Jack has had feeling for Daisy for a couple of years but is so shy that he can't even ask her for a date. When his male friends encourage him to set up an account on a dating site and click on Daisy's page, this begins a deception that Pastor Jack feels is against his moral beliefs. Thus follows a "You've Got Mail" story that winds its way through a turmoil of troubles and a gamut of emotions.

Hunter once again pens an enjoyable contemporary romance full of sweetness, realistic characters dealing with everyday life, and clean romance. If this is the end of the Blue Ridge series, I am going to miss these delightful characters and the small town flavor.

** received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Romances that involve an element of deception between the main characters always make me a little anxious, but in spite of my deception-related anxiety, I quite enjoyed this story. Jack was an endearing hero—confident in his role as pastor yet tentative and unsure of himself when it came to his friendship with Daisy. It was also refreshing to have a heroine who showed no signs of attraction to the hero for the first part of the story. (Not even those annoying little clichéd ‘clues’ that are so obvious to the reader but somehow utterly perplexing to the character!) The development of Daisy’s feelings were a gradual progression, and I liked how naturally that occurred.

Even though I didn’t like that there was a deception in play between the hero and heroine, the way it came about and the reason it persisted were believable. Not only that, but it worked in tandem with Daisy’s discovery of a family secret to bring home a message about not putting people on pedestals. We are all fallible, capable of disappointing those we love most, and we all need to learn to extend grace to others, “not because they deserve it—but because we don’t deserve it either.”

As for the family secret, it was an engaging addition to the plot, gradually revealing the hidden truth across the first part of the novel and following Daisy’s struggle to come to terms with it and adjust her life accordingly throughout the rest of the story.

A good choice for those looking for a gentle but satisfying contemporary romance.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of this review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Denise Hunter is a new author to me. I read the first and second of the Blue Ridge series and was thrilled to read #3, On Magnolia Lane. I'd become familiar with the characters, their family and friends while reading the series. Meeting Daisy Pendleton was fun. She is a twenty plus beautiful girl who suffered from low self esteem and dyslexia. She, her mother and grandmother own a flourishing flower shop in Copper Creek. Pastor Jack, local minister is theologian who is thirty-something, athletic, and good looking. Many women in his congregation would jump at the chance for a date with him but he has pined for Daisy since he met her. The story flows well with secrets in her past that were kept from her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series, it was hard to put it down. It was filled with familiar family concerns yet ever so pleasant to revisit while continuing on in Copper Creek's small town vibes. Denise Hunter holds true with adding her Christian values. Her writing style reminds me of another great author, Colleen Coble. I look forward to perhaps a #4 in this series.
I would like to thank her publisher Thomas Nelson of Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read this novel in advance of the November publishing.

This series by Denise Hunter is so charming. I love how the books interconnect but they are also written in s way that they can be read as stand alone books. If I hadn’t had been waiting for this book after I read book 2 in the series, I would have been interested in the book anyways just based on the cover art. The book is beautiful. When you dive into the book you’re captivated from the get go. The storyline is interesting and well thought out. There are quite a few different things going on through the book and to be honest sometimes I questioned the cohesiveness of all of it. It had moments of feeling like hodgepodge. I felt like the connection points could have been written and developed a little better. But that didn’t bother me too much and I enjoyed the story nonetheless. I loved the theme of grave and forgiveness. It was well thought out and tasteful.
I received a digital copy of this book from netgalley and the publisher. This has in no way influenced my review. All thoughts are my own.

From the very first page, I fell for Pastor Jack.  I love that Hunter made sure to emphasize that, while he is the spiritual leader of his church, he's also a man.  He's developed feelings for a friend but unfortunately she seems oblivious, which is very frustrating for him.  And in a moment of weakness he connects to her through a dating site ... while hiding his identity.  You know it isn't going to end well, yet you easily understand how he found himself caught up in the deception.  It lets you seen the more human side of him right along with Daisy.  

Daisy is a sweet and caring person but she is a little stuck on how some things from her past affect how she feels about herself.  And she's definitely a little clueless when it comes to Jack :)  She has a habit of putting people up on a pedestal and unfortunately that's what she's done to him.  But life tends to knock them down and things are quickly going to get complicated for her.  When the dust settles, she's definitely done some growing up and has a few things to come to terms with, including her feelings for Jack.  

Packed full of emotions, On Magnolia Lane wonderfully explores the idea of identity and perception, secrets and forgiveness.  All while delivering a tender love story that, more than once, made me give a little happy sigh.

This is a sweet, humorous, and heartwarming Christian contemporary romance set in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains of northern Georgia. It's the third book in Hunter's Blue Ridge Romance trilogy but, while characters from previous books make appearances and I'm guessing Daisy and Pastor Jack have evolved over the course of the series, I had no difficulty reading - and enjoying - this third book on its own.

One of the things that brought this story to life for me is Hunter's depiction of Daisy and Jack. Both are fully dimensional characters, rooted in their faith, but oh, so human, with all the insecurities, challenges, frustrations, and errors of judgment that encompasses. Jack, in particular, is such an endearing character. I liked him so much that I found myself giving him encouragement and advice as I traveled his journey with him, especially during those scenes where his shyness with women - Daisy, in particular - is on display. It took me a little longer to embrace Daisy. In the beginning, I wondered if she and Jack really could be a good match but the growth she exhibits during her journey, especially as it relates to an unexpected obstacle life throws her way, brought me into her cheering section as well. In the end, I happily embraced them both, individually and as a couple, with the confidence that their HEA will be filled with laughter and love - of each other, of their families, of their small community, and of their Lord.

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.

Funny, Sweet, Contemporary Christian Romance. I haven't read the series but this was fine as a standalone novel. . However, now I want to read the rest of the series.

On Magnolia Lane by Denise Hunter
Book #3: Blue Ridge Series
Source: NetGalley
My Rating: 3/5 stars

**MINI-REVIEW**

The Bottom Line: By way of full disclosure, I didn’t dive into this series with book three, but did listen to the first two books on audio before reading On Magnolia Lane. Based on the first two books, I was rather excited to read On Magnolia Lane, but I discovered as I got started, this series really is better for me on audio. While I very much liked the characters in this story, the plot, and the inclusion of characters from the first two books, I found it difficult to really focus on the physical reading. It took me such a long time to get through this book, and that wasn’t the case with the audio books.

At the end of the day, as audio books, I really enjoyed this series, and wish I had waited for the audio version of On Magnolia Lane. This is a truly sweet, Christian- based, very low heat series with real people working through real life issues that result in HEAs. I absolutely know I would have enjoyed the last book more had I listened to rather than physically read the book. While this certainly isn’t the authors fault, and there are no technical issues at all with this book, it is something I now know to look out for as a reader. So, do I recommend this trilogy? Yes, my issues are mine alone and I truly believe this is a trilogy that will appeal to a great number of readers.

On Magnolia Lane was a smooth, enjoyable read! Pastor Jack McReady's timidity around his secret love Daisy is endearing. And despite her obliviousness, Daisy, who suffers from a similar lack of confidence, is quite likable too!

When his friends take it upon themselves to set Jack up with an account on a dating app in order to get closer to Daisy, poor Jack is thrust in an awkward position. Denise Hunter does a great job in capitalizing on Jack's human foibles while retaining (most of) his integrity as a man of God.

What follows is a story about dashed expectations, trust lost, and, ultimately, forgiveness. The themes are echoed in Daisy's family relationships and all set amidst a giant community fundraiser that'll bring Jack and Daisy to a turning point.

Another enjoyable visit with the characters of Copper Creek, GA.

This is a sweet and tender story of two people, a pastor and his parishioner who are also friends. Pastor Jack has cared for Daisy for two years. She respects Jack but sees him as her pastor and counselor. They are part of group of friends in Copper Creek, Georgia, in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Daisy, her mom and grandmother own a florist named Oopsy Daisy and Daisy is also very active in the community, helping out different charities. All of their friends know that Jack cares for Daisy and that they are perfect for each other-everyone but the two of them. Jack thinks he is too old for her-almost a decade older and Jack is her pastor, not someone that she could see herself dating. She is not minister wife material. When Daisy joins a online dating site, Jack is afraid that she will find someone. The guys in the group of friends sign him up for the site without letting him know. They even send a note to her from TJ, Thomas Jackson aka Jack. Using vague snapshots for his profile, Daisy never realized it was Jack. Intending to delete his profile when he finds out what they did, Jack was drawn in to her sweet response to TJ's note. The two get to be friends online as the two get closer to each other in person. What will happen when it gets to a point where Daisy wants to meet TJ? Will he let the ruse keep on? On Magnolia Lane is a great addition to the Blue Ridge Romance series and one that I have anticipated. The ride is bumpy with other side issues going on for Daisy but a sweet story.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.

Denise Hunter is an international best-selling and award-winning author with more than 30 books. In "On magnolia Lane" the reader encounters Daisy, the content owner of a flower shop who struggles with dyslexia, and Jack, pastor of Daisy's church. They have been good friends for a long time. Daisy knows that she can come to Jack with the challenges of her life, e.g., when a strange woman shows up in town. She has a really big heart to help others as much as possible and be their friend. Jack likes to turn their friendship into a more serious relationship than just being Daisy's counselor but he has problems to accomplish this. Will the "help" of his friends, setting him up as "TJ" on a dating site be a help or an hindrance to deepen his relationship?
When I started to read the book I was actually not aware that it is the third volume in the "Blue Ridge Romance Series". Nevertheless, the book can be also read as a stand-alone. One does not have to read the first two books in order to enjoy the characters and to understand the story. For this reason and because I appreciated the book I highly recommend it to readers who look for an enjoyable romance for relaxation.

The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#OnMagnoliaLane #NetGalley

I have read the other books in this series, really liking Pastor Jack as a supporting character. Now he gets his own story in On Magnolia Lane by Denise Hunter. This is a serious story of a darling couple who deserved to be together. There is more to this story than just the romance but it all about relationships in one’s life.

I found Pastor Jack’s secret crush for Daisy to be adorable. Others “help” him to go to unusual lengths to win her heart. This could all back fire. That really shows that a person in the public eye could still be lacking confidence. On the other hand, Daisy is a bit clueless to be so smart in other ways.

This is quite the story where relationships could be ruined or restored but would never be the same as before. All is not as it seems so the working it all out makes for interesting reading. I was rooting for Jack from the very beginning. I had to ask, “What took you so long, Daisy?”

The publisher through Net Galley provided an ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

Reading this book inspired another post that will be coming soon about how I review books. To summarize, I like to compare books within the same genre rather than putting different types of books up against one another. I have lots of reasons for this, but it’s basically about fairness. Although I love books, I don’t love all books the same. I can enjoy a Sci-fi book, but I’m not going to like it initially as well as, say, historical fiction. For that reason, I try not to compare books from different genres. On Magnolia Lane is the perfect example of why I rate books the way I do.

This book is an easy and solid 4.5/5. Some of my favorite Christian fiction, by Francine Rivers and Karen Kingsbury, are 5/5 for me, because of an intangible feeling I get from reading them. Hunter comes ridiculously close to that feeling while having her own voice and story.

You can definitely read this as a stand-alone novel, as all of the necessary information was provided for the story. Occasionally, I got the vague sense that there was more some of the characters than I was seeing. Which is just one of the reasons I love participating in review tours. I read a book that I might not have otherwise, only to discover a whole series that I NEED to read.

I really loved the characters and the heart in this book. The romance was enjoyable and real. Even in a plot that might seem unrealistic, Denise Hunter shows just how easily a person can stumble into a mistake. This truth is more real and accurately displayed than most nonfiction books.

I cannot wait to read the first two books and then reread this one!!!

Romance, clean; Christian faith elements; Series, but stand alone read
Daisy and Jack's story was a heartfelt, fun, romantic read. Lots of interesting plot twists, sweet heartfelt moments, and fun back story and setting. The internet dating back-story, Jack's career, and Daisy's faith journey, with all of the other side characters in this small town made this a lovely read. The back story with Daisy's family secrets, and the fund raiser made for a great additional back story. Of course, seeing some of the other people/characters from previous novels was a plus if you have read them. More of a 3.5 for me as a reader, but still a wonderful read. My favorite story, two honest hurting hearts that help each other heal and find happiness.

I was dying to read this book. If you have read any of the other books in the Blue Ridge series, I know you are right there with me. I couldn’t wait to hear Jack’s story, and learn more about Daisy too. Hunter has a way of causing me to be emotionally invested right along with the characters. I love every minute of it. On Magnolia Lane drew me in from page one and I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I was taken by surprise on several occasions, and had no way of guessing what was coming. It was unique seeing things from a pastors eyes, and seeing his imperfections as well. I think we can all make the mistake of putting someone on a pedestal, and it isn’t good for anyone. Unrealistic expectations only cause hurt. Luckily that’s where grace and forgiveness can come in. Daisy and Jack are far from perfect, but that only makes their relationship that much better. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Fiction. This book would be a great stand alone. That being said I also enjoyed the entire series, and am sure you will too. I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

On Magnolia Lane by Denise Hunter is the third book in the Blue Ridge Romance series, published by Thomas Nelson.

This third installment in the series follows the story of Pastor Jack and Daisy Pendleton, owner of a local flower shop. We’ve been introduced to both of them throughout the first two novels in this series, but if you haven’t read them, this still works as a stand alone.

Honestly, I think the second book in this series has been the best one so far–closely followed by the first. This third addition was slow-moving and not my favorite plot-wise. The characters were sweet but their insecurities were glaring and I just wanted them to hurry up and be confident in themselves already–but I suppose that’s an imitation of real life. This has a sort of “You’ve Got Mail” vibe to it, which meant there was some deception included when one character knew the identity of the other but continued on with the online conversations charade, but it all worked itself out. Anyway, this is a sweet read but not my favorite by Denise Hunter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

On Magnolia Lane was different from most books I've read, as the MC was a pastor. I found myself not really liking him in the beginning, because I felt like some of his actions were a bit deceptive, but in the end I actually liked him and the romance.



I really enjoyed the subplot of Daisy and the new person in town. Surprising revelations were revealed and that definitely made me eager to read more to see how everything turned out.



All in all, On Magnolia Lane was a very good third book in this series and, if there are more stories coming, I definitely plan on reading them. I recommend this one if you like contemporary romance.



*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*