A great story at the end of the American Civil War. It was a good love story between a woman and her boyfriend soldier after the war. She was a new author for me. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. This review is my feelings towards the book.

I didn't finish this book.
I think the storyline had so much potential, but I didn't like the third person narrative. I found the chapters were very long and drawn out. The chapters seemed to stop midway through and change perspective to another character which I found very confusing, especially in third person.
I put the book down and tried again a few days later hoping I could finish it hut unfortunately I stopped halfway through.
This, I think, was nothing to do with the author I just couldn't connect with the book and the narrative. And because I wasn't enjoying it anyways the chapter lengths made me feel like I was resding forever.

Snow on Magnolias is a post-Civil War story that highlights the problems in the South after the war, especially with conflicting political views. By Betty Bolte this historical romance also shows the issues that soldiers had as they went off to war leaving behind loved ones who had their own set of problems. An entertaining read that did leave me with some unanswered questions.

First, the Merryweather family members were wonderful, generous and loving. Each of the daughters possessed a gift that was hinted to be infused with some magical power. However, that is never clearly explained. Also there is a secret that is difficult to believe had been kept from some of the adult family. As close as the siblings and parents were I found this hard to accept as being possible.

As for the romance it is sweet and straightforward as the issues involved were worked through by the two characters. Overall I enjoyed this story by a new-to-me author.

Snow on Magnolias
by Betty Bolte

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre: Historical fiction, Romance, Womens fiction

I didn't really gel with this book. It wasn't that I disliked anything about it, I just found it a little lightweight and predictable. That's not a criticism, just a personal view, other readers want exactly this type of story, we all enjoy different books.
I did like the characters and the “little house on the prairie” feel, its just for me the actual story-line lacked real depth.

Stars: Three, perfect if you want a light, gentle read, sadly I don't.

ARC supplied by netgalley and publishers

This is a sweet book about falling in love again and starting over. Lia is a lovely character who is very family oriented and loves animals and horses. As she lets Captain Bryce back into her life we see be more bold and brave. A sweet holiday story.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.

Captain Bryce, who fought with the Union, is coming home after the Civil War to Lia. He is apprehensive because he sent a note ending their relationship in case he did not survive the war. He hopes she can forgive him. I really liked this book talking about the Confederate feelings in Alabama against the Union soldiers. Lia’s close-knit family and how they cared for each other was heartwarming. I enjoyed their efforts to provide a nice Christmas when there wasn’t much money to spend. Lia has a big secret to share with her family and Bryce, adding to the enjoyment of the book.

Hey y'all, if you're into historical dramas with a dash of romance, Snow on Magnolias is your next must-read! Picture this: post-Civil War Alabama, where Magnolia Merryweather is juggling her horse breeding business and a big ol' secret that threatens to upend everything. And then there's Bryce Day, back from fighting, trying to patch things up with his gal while dodging his Unionist past. It's like watching a Southern soap opera unfold, with twists, turns, and heart-pounding drama. Grab a mint julep and dive into this tale of love, lies, and redemption—you won't regret it! 🌸

Magnolia Merryweather is a horse breeder; she is eager to celebrate Christmas after the civil war ends. loved the story.

Is it too early to think about snow?? Maybe so, but this will be a great winter read to warn your heart. Don’t skip this one.