Fireflies and Magnolias (Dare River #3) by Ava Miles

Fireflies and Magnolias by Ava Miles
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From USA Today Bestselling Author Ava Miles of the #1 National Bestseller NORA ROBERTS LAND comes an emotional, heartwarming romance with a touch of magic and mystery—perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber and Susan Mallery.

"Ava's story is witty and charming." Barbara Freethy #1 NYT bestselling author on Nora Roberts Land

Amelia Ann Hollins might have been raised to be a sweet magnolia, but she’s found her inner fire—the quest for justice. The secrets she carries and a tragedy from her past prompt her to volunteer at a legal clinic in the worst part of town. Here she can serve and protect the one she couldn’t save. Here she will risk everything.

Clayton Chandler’s happy life ended when his daddy died tragically when he was a boy. He lost his belief in magic and signs, but Amelia Ann is stirring the embers of passion and faith inside him again. He doesn’t plan on risking his heart. To make matters worse, he works for her rock star brother and knows better than to date the younger sister of his best friend.
When Amelia Ann volunteers to help with her brother’s charity concert, Clayton has nowhere to run. Soon he can no longer deny his fiery passion for Amelia Ann, and as the danger of her calling and her secrets threaten their newfound love, they’ll learn fireflies are magical and magnolias can burn hotter than steel.

Author's Note: All books can easily be read as stand-alone stories.


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When it comes to storytelling, I'm ranking Ava Miles up there with the best of them. Nicholas Sparks better watch out!

Her characters feel like old friends and each time I get my hands on one of her stories, I'm as excited as a kid on Christmas morning about catching up with them. The Hollins clan has been through some incredible growth since Rye's return but their healing still has a long way to go. The baby of the family, Amelia Ann, knows that the time has come to reveal the secret she's hidden from them... will it help or hinder the progress they've made?

I adored Amelia! She's driven, passionate and has a heart of gold. Clayton was described as being cold and aloof and while he did grow on me, I have to agree with that assessment. Unfortunately, it kept me from connecting with him as much as I have with Ms. Miles' other heroes.

This book addresses the issue of domestic violence with tact and grace so I don't think there's anything here that will upset more sensitive readers too much. If you're looking for a new author or something a few levels above your standard romance, this is a series for you.


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