The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories - by Celeste Fletcher McHale (Paperback)

About the Book

Celeste McHale delivers another genuine Southern story in The Sweet Smell of Magnolias and Memories. Jacey never intended to to settle down; but when the man of her dreams resurfaces, she must find out if she has the courage to finally fall in love.

Book Synopsis

A Southern novel full of friendships and finding love.

"There's no time," Colin said. "You have to go. Find me, call me . . ."

Jacey and Colin shared the three most intense days of their lives together, waiting for help as Mississippi floodwaters surrounded them. Jacey knew Colin was the love of her life--until her rescue boat went under water, along with Colin's last name and pieces of Jacey's memory.

The last thing she remembered was being submerged in water. Again.

As Jacey walks down the aisle as the maid of honor in her friend's wedding a year later, the last person she expects to see is Colin. The biggest surprise, though, is that the man of her dreams is not wearing jeans and flip-flops as he did when he held her through those long nights of the flood. He's the preacher.

As Jacey's memories come flooding back, it's almost more than she can take. The fate of the young family trapped with them haunts her. The unwavering honesty--and support--of her best friend Georgia forces her to take a fresh look at herself.

She's spent her life afraid of love. But a flood is opening Jacey's heart in the most unexpected ways.

Review Quotes

'McHale has a way of creating characters who are believably flawed and human. Her wit and hilarity are perfect matches for the heartfelt romance in this winsome book.'--Publishers Weekly

'McHale's (The Secret to Hummingbird Cake) conversational tone, flawed characters, and feel-good ending make for an uplifting read that incorporates themes.'--Library Journal

'The writing is so beautifully done, the prose so delicately chosen, that the book is a treat to savor.'--RT Book Reviews, 4 stars

"This interesting take on a different type of post-traumatic stress and how it may be overcome with faith, love, and friendship would be a good read for fans of Beth K. Vogt."--CBA Market