Strings Attached: Magnolia Cove Magic 3 Author Noel Bailey

Book Review

4.5 out of 5 stars!



"The music still matters--but somewhere along the way, I lost the part of myself that used to come alive when I played." - Missy


Being on tour for nine months is not for the weak! Missy thought she wanted it but after being under those hot stage lights and non-stop moving from one location to the next she wants a breather! A chance to get away from all her fans, managers, and her violinist who's eager to keep going onto the next thing. A small town in the middle of nowhere with her sister and future brother-in-law seems like the perfect getaway.


Until she finds out that she has to apply for an extended residency permit with the council of the town?! And of course, the one she's supposed to be appealing to is the one with a scowl that could put any of her former Julliard professors to shame! Even still something about this town resonates with her and she may just be rethinking her future plans. Not to mention the little rush she gets when she manages to break through Dean's scowling face. 


"I'm Head Warlock here--part political figure, part magical janitor. Depends on the day." - Dean


I came into this series a book late, need to read Alex's story! Some slight spoilers but nothing major, more like enticing little treats to go back and read the first book of the series. After having met Dean in book two and getting little glimpses of him I wanted to read his story! So, I was excited to find out the next book starred Dean and I ended up reading it in one night.


Everyone knows about burnout or has felt it. And I think for creative people it hits a bit harder. Not discounting anyone's burnout at all because it stinks regardless! But for creative people it feels like a part of your soul is missing and unreachable. I've had comments and praise for my artistic talents, but I always felt like there was a glass wall between me and my work. Yes, I have the talent, but I didn't have the passion. Recently I've found that passion and I'm holding onto it and chasing it with everything I've got. 


All this to say that when burnout hits, set things down for a moment. Try something new and maybe something you would've never believed you'd ever see yourself doing. Like playing a cello in the middle of an intense storm with no electricity in the building. (This book is fiction be mindful of your safety!) Missy is on the search for her passion and that need to play for herself. Not for her violinist, her fans, her managers, etc. She's finding that this town is more than it seems and something in her is synchronizing with it. Creating a harmony that showcases her personality and soul.


Dean has his walls way up and puts duty before anything else. Keeping his distance majority of the time and only stepping forward when necessary. But Missy seems to cause his feet to move into her orbit on their own accord. He finds it harder and harder to remain scowling in some dark corner when she's present. She also doesn't back down or break under his scowl. She seems to be able to see right through his well-kept facade to his core. Only Missy is a non-magic user and a human. One who will also be leaving soon. Another battle begins as he tries to remain focused.


Read through the Author's Notes on what lies within the book. This is a lighthearted read with cozy fall feels and a nice smalltown. There are moments that are heavy but nothing too intense. There's some very mild language but nothing over the top. Healing moments and unconditional love. The author spoils us with a playlist to listen to and a recipe for cookies at the very back! For me, the read does start out a little slow and I felt like some things were repetitive.


"Was that a compliment? Careful, Dean. I think you're warming up to me." - Missy

"You don't make it easy to stay cold." - Dean


We have a slow burn romance with instant attraction and chemistry. Dean's magic may have also become a little odd when Missy was nearby. I enjoyed the banter between the two and the internal struggles. Dual POVs helping to showcase their hesitations and more. Fade to black romance. I also really loved the bets and the innerworkings of the town that were happening in the background. Unbeknownst to the reader/the MCs, unless you grew up in a smalltown and or have siblings.


We get an HEA for the main couple! I loved all the characters and the ones presented later in the story. There's definitely more to come for this town and I'm ready for it! I will also one of these days go back and read Alex's story! I need to become immortal so I can get through my TBR! I also really want to see more of Grammie Rae! I was laughing a lot and thinking that she's practically the spirit guide for the town's residents.


Do enjoy the read with Autumn vibes, secret magic/magical smalltown, a cozy forbidden romance, and beautiful music! Don't forget to give the author some stars!


Amazon.com: Strings Attached: 9798269042251: Bailey, Noel: Books


Magnolia Cove Magic (3 book series) Paperback Edition


Noel Bailey's Instagram


Author Noel Bailey

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