Magnolia Parks: The Long Way Home (The Magnolia Parks Universe) Paperback – November 7, 2023

This is the most emotional reading experience/ rollercoaster 🎢 I've ever been on with a book series. This book, in particular, had me holding my breath and clinching my hands while hanging on for dear life. I laughed, cried, raged - laughed, and cried some more... all the things. And then some. There is nothing like this series that I've ever read. It's in a class by itself. I found it through countless romance recommendations, but I don't necessarily know that's the proper category for it to fall under. It, somehow, doesn't give it the dignity it deserves. It's just not a good enough classification, imo.I find myself both excited and scared to venture into the next book(s). There's absolutely no way I won't. It's mandatory that I do.The idea that I left these sitting on my TBR shelf for so long is unfathomable, and I feel like I need to beg forgiveness for that sin. Wtf was I doing with my reading life?!I can understand why some people may not be big fans of this series, but not really.I'm an emotional reader and tend to leave reviews reflecting how a book makes me feel upon completion. I prefer to leave the dissection of plot holes, general happenings, and spoilerish-type reviews to others. I will remark upon writing style and character dialog, though. Those are typically the most important aspects of a book for me, on a personal level. The writing style of this author is exactly what I would order up for every book my eyes came in contact with - if such a menu existed. Well done and seared to perfection. The emotions that tag along are the dessert. This book is a full course meal.

"Magnolia Parks: The Long Way Home" by Jessa Hastings is a reflective exploration of love, loss, and the transformative journeys of its beloved characters. Nearly a year has passed since the pivotal events unfolded between Magnolia and BJ, leading them to new lives and fresh beginnings—Magnolia in the vibrant energy of New York City and BJ seemingly moving on. However, fate intervenes when they unexpectedly reunite in London, forcing them to confront unresolved feelings and lingering questions.As they grapple with the complexities of their past and the changes time has wrought, Magnolia and BJ must face the age-old dilemma—how many loves can one truly have in a lifetime? Hastings masterfully captures the emotional tension and nostalgia that permeate their interactions, prompting readers to ponder the depth of connection and the possibility of second chances. “The Long Way Home” offers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever wondered about the paths of true love and whether destiny will ultimately lead them back to where they belong. This novel beautifully weaves themes of reconciliation and self-discovery, making it a must-read for fans of the Magnolia Parks series.

5/5 ⭐️0/5 🌶️“I’ll wear it like a badge of honour forever that he loved me first, that he loved me at all. Have you ever had a love like that?”It’s been 6 days since I’ve finished this book and I’m still processing it. And will probably continue to process it until February when the next book about Magnolia and BJ comes out.“We’re meant to be, me and Parks. Right? That’s what this is about. We’re fated. Woven into the tapestry of the universe, my name right next to hers. We’re in the stars.”Just like all the other books, a lot goes on. The toxicity is there. The betrayal is there. The pain. The love. Everything is present in this story. I cannot put into words just how well Jessa Hastings writes these books. I love how you feel when you’re reading them - like you’re part of the friend group, sitting around the table chatting with them all. It also means every emotion is felt. That, for me, is what makes a book 5 stars.“He laughs and for some reason it sounds like I’m ringing the doorbell of the home I grew up in.”And I have to comment on that ending. THAT ENDING!! Why. Just why. I never in a million years could’ve seen that ending coming. How you gonna do us like that, Jessa?? Hmmm?? Because that was just cruel and I do not forgive you.“How much time do we really have? I don’t think either of us knows anymore.”In case I need to actually say it — READ THE BOOK!!!“How’s the weather, Parks?”

A bit repetitive story line but I love the characters. Fun easy read. I am excited to read the next book.

Bought for my daughter for Christmas.... she loves this writer and this series. She wants to read all of them again. Book came in perfect condition.