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3.82 AVERAGE
3.82 AVERAGE
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I simply adored my first visit to Sandcastle Bay when I read The Holiday Cottage by the Sea back in April so I was glad the wait for book two, The Cottage on Sunshine Beach, in this planned trilogy wasn't that long at all. This was such an enjoyable read packed full of the traits of Holly Martin's writing that I have come to love and also to expect. Holly is a fantastic writer and I know I will always be guaranteed a brilliant storyline packed full of romance, with lots of surprises and laughs along the way. Holly also has this canny knack of creating the most vivid and memorable settings for each of her stories and also comes up with such ingenious place names to go with it. Sandcastle Bay is a special place, packed full of memorable characters and equally as memorable events occur that literally did have me laughing out loud.
I've said it before and probably will say it many more times in the future but with a book from this author you do know more or less from the beginning or even from previous books what the eventual outcome will be for all the characters involved. Some may say - what's the point in that? It takes away the element of surprise and reveal at the end and just gives too much away. Normally, I would have to agree with people who feel this way but not so in the case of this author's books. It really is more about the development of the characters, their indecision and the reasons for the reluctance to just take a leap into the unknown and go for it. The journey is more important than the big climax of acceptance and embracing love and relationships wholeheartedly. It's testament to the brilliant writing that the reader enjoys the storyline and cares more about the journey rather than reaching the final destination.
With it only being two months since my introduction to Sandcastle Bay, I felt the characters we had already met were very much fresh in my mind and I didn't feel the first few chapters were about familiarising myself with everyone and various events and who was connected to etc. Instead, I slipped easily back into the warm writing and was keen to see how the story of Melody Rosewood and Jamie Jackson would develop. I already knew the background to both Melody's family and her friend Tori and also the Jackson brothers. That's not to say new readers won't be able to follow the storyline as plenty of background information is slipped in subtly. I love how we get to see how the couple from book one are now getting on and in the most beautiful way we see a continuation of their story without taking away from Melody and Jamie. Also the couple who will feature in book three start to make themselves more prominent and the reader can take guesses as to how their relationship will develop. It's just all intertwined so well without distracting from the overall plot.
Melody lives close to Sunshine Beach in a snug little cottage and she is more or less happy with her life since she made the big move from London. The reason for her move being the death of her beloved brother Matthew leaving his son Elliott behind. Her sister Isla is now guardian of Elliott and Melody felt she needed support and back up. As Melody is a jewellery designer she can take her business anywhere and it has been reasonably successful since she set up her shop amongst the artisans that occupy Starfish Court. It also helps that the object of her affections Jamie, himself a sculptor, has a shop close by and a lovely friendship walking to work each morning has developed. We know from the beginning that both Melody and Jamie have feelings for each other but are desperately afraid to say it and see where romantic adventures could take them. Yes at times you'll want to bang their heads together but at the same time it's enjoyable to see just what ups and downs and problems await the pair on their path to finding true love if that is at all possible?
Jamie thinks he is crap at relationships as previously he fell head over heels for somebody who didn't return his feelings. He is wary of getting hurt and doesn't want to invest time in a relationship where the same could happen again. I felt Jamie was vulnerable and very much doubted what his heart was telling him. My view is that if you have feelings for someone you should explore them further and see where the path will lead. If you don't try you'll never know if you could succeed. I thought this quote really summed up the indecision both Jamie and Melody were feeling. ' Love is a crazy, wonderful thing, it's not something to run away from, it's something you run towards. Yes, it's painful if it doesn't turn out the way we want to, but you can't shy away from it for the rest of your life because it might hurt'. Very wise words it must be said and that's what I love about Holly's writing. Time and time again, I find myself nodding along in agreement at what is being said. I have to stop and reread passages several times to absorb how honest and true they are. It's almost like she is offering relationship and life advice for the readers, in a good way, as much as she is for her main characters.
Melody, herself, wants more than a friendship with Jamie but she feels she isn't good enough for him that her clumsiness and general awkwardness would turn any man off. But surely a relationship is about embracing all the faults each person has be they major or minor and working through and accepting them. That's my only minor quibble about this book, I felt at times there was too much emphasis on Melody's clumsiness be it spilling a drink or falling into something. I understand this trait was being used as a barrier for Melody and was pivotal to the overall storyline but it did begin to bug me she was so het up over something I would personally view as being minor. Saying that it did provide plenty of laughs along the way and that's what this book was all about. It was packed full of humour and laughter.
Normally when a book is classed as a laugh out loud romantic comedy I mightn’t even break into a smile but here oh my god I was laughing out loud and wanting to share such funny moments with fellow readers. Elliott in all his innocence was just hysterical when he talked about what he found whilst in his Granny's bedroom. The scene at the puppy training classes was just everyone's worst nightmare but all you could do was just laugh and get on with it. Not to mention the supermarket scene and the cave. There was just so much amusement, wit, wisecracks and hilarity throughout that it just made the story so good and a joy to read. Also, what I am calling the spot the puppy angle to the book was brilliant and so sweet a continuation from book one.
As the story continued I thought all viewpoints were presented equally. I felt every bit of the confusion and apprehension that existed for Melody and Jamie and hoped they could work through things. But when they say things like this it did make me wonder would a happy ending be forthcoming.'protecting you and what we have. I don't want to lose you and the very last thing I want is to do anything to hurt you. I want to do this right. I don't want to rush into this and ruin what we have'. Even with those few words the reader can sense the doubt and the reluctance to move from a friendship to a relationship.
The Cottage on Sunshine Beach was an excellent read. Usually, I find myself loving book one in a series and then the next two books don't live up to my expectations or recreate the same feelings I experienced but this was a first for me I adored this book and wanted the story to continue on and on. Holly Martin writes from the heart taking such care with every word poured onto the page to create such wonderful characters you root for from beginning to end. With such a romantic ending and just an overall brilliant, delightful read this book simply has to be on your summer reading list for 2018.
I've said it before and probably will say it many more times in the future but with a book from this author you do know more or less from the beginning or even from previous books what the eventual outcome will be for all the characters involved. Some may say - what's the point in that? It takes away the element of surprise and reveal at the end and just gives too much away. Normally, I would have to agree with people who feel this way but not so in the case of this author's books. It really is more about the development of the characters, their indecision and the reasons for the reluctance to just take a leap into the unknown and go for it. The journey is more important than the big climax of acceptance and embracing love and relationships wholeheartedly. It's testament to the brilliant writing that the reader enjoys the storyline and cares more about the journey rather than reaching the final destination.
With it only being two months since my introduction to Sandcastle Bay, I felt the characters we had already met were very much fresh in my mind and I didn't feel the first few chapters were about familiarising myself with everyone and various events and who was connected to etc. Instead, I slipped easily back into the warm writing and was keen to see how the story of Melody Rosewood and Jamie Jackson would develop. I already knew the background to both Melody's family and her friend Tori and also the Jackson brothers. That's not to say new readers won't be able to follow the storyline as plenty of background information is slipped in subtly. I love how we get to see how the couple from book one are now getting on and in the most beautiful way we see a continuation of their story without taking away from Melody and Jamie. Also the couple who will feature in book three start to make themselves more prominent and the reader can take guesses as to how their relationship will develop. It's just all intertwined so well without distracting from the overall plot.
Melody lives close to Sunshine Beach in a snug little cottage and she is more or less happy with her life since she made the big move from London. The reason for her move being the death of her beloved brother Matthew leaving his son Elliott behind. Her sister Isla is now guardian of Elliott and Melody felt she needed support and back up. As Melody is a jewellery designer she can take her business anywhere and it has been reasonably successful since she set up her shop amongst the artisans that occupy Starfish Court. It also helps that the object of her affections Jamie, himself a sculptor, has a shop close by and a lovely friendship walking to work each morning has developed. We know from the beginning that both Melody and Jamie have feelings for each other but are desperately afraid to say it and see where romantic adventures could take them. Yes at times you'll want to bang their heads together but at the same time it's enjoyable to see just what ups and downs and problems await the pair on their path to finding true love if that is at all possible?
Jamie thinks he is crap at relationships as previously he fell head over heels for somebody who didn't return his feelings. He is wary of getting hurt and doesn't want to invest time in a relationship where the same could happen again. I felt Jamie was vulnerable and very much doubted what his heart was telling him. My view is that if you have feelings for someone you should explore them further and see where the path will lead. If you don't try you'll never know if you could succeed. I thought this quote really summed up the indecision both Jamie and Melody were feeling. ' Love is a crazy, wonderful thing, it's not something to run away from, it's something you run towards. Yes, it's painful if it doesn't turn out the way we want to, but you can't shy away from it for the rest of your life because it might hurt'. Very wise words it must be said and that's what I love about Holly's writing. Time and time again, I find myself nodding along in agreement at what is being said. I have to stop and reread passages several times to absorb how honest and true they are. It's almost like she is offering relationship and life advice for the readers, in a good way, as much as she is for her main characters.
Melody, herself, wants more than a friendship with Jamie but she feels she isn't good enough for him that her clumsiness and general awkwardness would turn any man off. But surely a relationship is about embracing all the faults each person has be they major or minor and working through and accepting them. That's my only minor quibble about this book, I felt at times there was too much emphasis on Melody's clumsiness be it spilling a drink or falling into something. I understand this trait was being used as a barrier for Melody and was pivotal to the overall storyline but it did begin to bug me she was so het up over something I would personally view as being minor. Saying that it did provide plenty of laughs along the way and that's what this book was all about. It was packed full of humour and laughter.
Normally when a book is classed as a laugh out loud romantic comedy I mightn’t even break into a smile but here oh my god I was laughing out loud and wanting to share such funny moments with fellow readers. Elliott in all his innocence was just hysterical when he talked about what he found whilst in his Granny's bedroom. The scene at the puppy training classes was just everyone's worst nightmare but all you could do was just laugh and get on with it. Not to mention the supermarket scene and the cave. There was just so much amusement, wit, wisecracks and hilarity throughout that it just made the story so good and a joy to read. Also, what I am calling the spot the puppy angle to the book was brilliant and so sweet a continuation from book one.
As the story continued I thought all viewpoints were presented equally. I felt every bit of the confusion and apprehension that existed for Melody and Jamie and hoped they could work through things. But when they say things like this it did make me wonder would a happy ending be forthcoming.'protecting you and what we have. I don't want to lose you and the very last thing I want is to do anything to hurt you. I want to do this right. I don't want to rush into this and ruin what we have'. Even with those few words the reader can sense the doubt and the reluctance to move from a friendship to a relationship.
The Cottage on Sunshine Beach was an excellent read. Usually, I find myself loving book one in a series and then the next two books don't live up to my expectations or recreate the same feelings I experienced but this was a first for me I adored this book and wanted the story to continue on and on. Holly Martin writes from the heart taking such care with every word poured onto the page to create such wonderful characters you root for from beginning to end. With such a romantic ending and just an overall brilliant, delightful read this book simply has to be on your summer reading list for 2018.
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Bookouture for letting me be part of this blog tour. I have been a fan of Holly's writing for such a long time and I can't imagine my life without her stories. After we met Melody and Jamie in The Cottage by the Sea I was so excited to get to their book.
Melody is extremely accident prone. The people in her past have been less than patient with her about this. She believes that no one would want to put up with her, her own parents can't even put up with it! I really liked Melody, She is kind, loyal, brave and sees the best in everyone around her. I can be quite accident prone, although not as much as Melody, and I've seen that look of frustration on people's faces. Melody has so many qualities and it was sad that she couldn't see them.
Jamie has had his heart well and truly messed with in the past. Jamie is a good guy. He's caring, he's thoughtful, he's loyal but things just haven't gone well for him in the past. He's picked the wrong girls who don't appreciate him. His past experience has made him scared of committing again. Jamie reminded me of my boyfriend. The things he does for Melody in this book are definitely the sort of things that my boyfriend would do for me. So of course I was swooning at Jamie throughout this book.
One of my favourite things about Holly's writing is the emotions she involuntarily pulls out of me. Holly has me crying in one scene and laughing in the next. I don't even thinking abut it these emotions just tumble out. My absolute favourite scene in this book is the puppy training class it's just SO funny.
I absolutely loved every page of this book and I was sad to finish it so quickly. I feel like I cannot write the words to express how I feel about this book. It was everything I hoped for and so so much more. I can't wait for Holly's next release.
Melody is extremely accident prone. The people in her past have been less than patient with her about this. She believes that no one would want to put up with her, her own parents can't even put up with it! I really liked Melody, She is kind, loyal, brave and sees the best in everyone around her. I can be quite accident prone, although not as much as Melody, and I've seen that look of frustration on people's faces. Melody has so many qualities and it was sad that she couldn't see them.
Jamie has had his heart well and truly messed with in the past. Jamie is a good guy. He's caring, he's thoughtful, he's loyal but things just haven't gone well for him in the past. He's picked the wrong girls who don't appreciate him. His past experience has made him scared of committing again. Jamie reminded me of my boyfriend. The things he does for Melody in this book are definitely the sort of things that my boyfriend would do for me. So of course I was swooning at Jamie throughout this book.
One of my favourite things about Holly's writing is the emotions she involuntarily pulls out of me. Holly has me crying in one scene and laughing in the next. I don't even thinking abut it these emotions just tumble out. My absolute favourite scene in this book is the puppy training class it's just SO funny.
I absolutely loved every page of this book and I was sad to finish it so quickly. I feel like I cannot write the words to express how I feel about this book. It was everything I hoped for and so so much more. I can't wait for Holly's next release.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
hopeful
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
It is only a few months since I was in Sandcastle Bay catching up with Tori who had arrived to see her friends Melody and Isla and nurse a broken heart. Little did she know she would be staying and as we obviously catch up with all that is happening to her this story is very much focused on Melody.
Melody is a jewellery maker with her own little shop. She loves being in Sandcastle Bay near her friend Tori and of course her sister Isla but it also has lovely but sad memories of their brother Matthew who was killed.
Opposite Melody's shop is that of Jamie Jackson, a local artist and sculptor. Everyday he meets Melody and the both walk to their respective shops with their new bouncing puppies in tow.
As their friendship deepens, they start to date - well try. Trouble is Melody is a bit clumsy and accident prone, so knocking drinks over, ruining sand castles and giving your potential new beau food poisoning. Perhaps not the auspicious start that either of them wanted.
Carrying demons from the past means they seem to be treading on eggshells round each other. Whilst the dates are a bit of a disaster when the romance hots up Melody knows she has found the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with. But has Jamie found that in Melody?
Of course being in a small town and a close-knit community means that everyone wants to know what is going on and has an opinion which doesn't always help. After a few misunderstandings.....
Well if you want to know you are going to have to read the book of course!
I loved Melody and her endearing clumsiness and I could relate to that feeling of not being good enough because you were not what everyone expected. Jamie's tenderness was lovely and left you with a warm fuzzy feeling that there is hope.
It was of course lovely to catch up with Isla and Tori and they played in some cases starring roles within the plot! I hope there will be a book three because Isla needs to settle down and realise what she has is not going anywhere. If she doesn't then I am off to pack my bags to Sandcastle Bay and will happily step into her shoes - in fact Melody better watch out too!
Melody is a jewellery maker with her own little shop. She loves being in Sandcastle Bay near her friend Tori and of course her sister Isla but it also has lovely but sad memories of their brother Matthew who was killed.
Opposite Melody's shop is that of Jamie Jackson, a local artist and sculptor. Everyday he meets Melody and the both walk to their respective shops with their new bouncing puppies in tow.
As their friendship deepens, they start to date - well try. Trouble is Melody is a bit clumsy and accident prone, so knocking drinks over, ruining sand castles and giving your potential new beau food poisoning. Perhaps not the auspicious start that either of them wanted.
Carrying demons from the past means they seem to be treading on eggshells round each other. Whilst the dates are a bit of a disaster when the romance hots up Melody knows she has found the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with. But has Jamie found that in Melody?
Of course being in a small town and a close-knit community means that everyone wants to know what is going on and has an opinion which doesn't always help. After a few misunderstandings.....
Well if you want to know you are going to have to read the book of course!
I loved Melody and her endearing clumsiness and I could relate to that feeling of not being good enough because you were not what everyone expected. Jamie's tenderness was lovely and left you with a warm fuzzy feeling that there is hope.
It was of course lovely to catch up with Isla and Tori and they played in some cases starring roles within the plot! I hope there will be a book three because Isla needs to settle down and realise what she has is not going anywhere. If she doesn't then I am off to pack my bags to Sandcastle Bay and will happily step into her shoes - in fact Melody better watch out too!
Nothing happened. This felt like a young adult fanfic type story, which could have worked, but the characters were in their 30s. Do people in their 30s really act like that? All of the characters had the same personality and there was no substance to them, not even a description of what they look like other than the main female character. The setting is cute and it’s an easy read but I kept wanting more from it and I was waiting for something to actually happen.
The characters only seemed to ever gossip about their sex lives and didn’t seem to be capable of having any other conversation. The main characters had no chemistry and they were discussing marriage and kids 2 days into their relationship. The back of the book said ‘a past heartache is holding Jamie back’ but he wasn’t really held back at all...
The main character Melody is also completely self-absorbed. Very strange characterisation for a 31 year old.
The characters only seemed to ever gossip about their sex lives and didn’t seem to be capable of having any other conversation. The main characters had no chemistry and they were discussing marriage and kids 2 days into their relationship. The back of the book said ‘a past heartache is holding Jamie back’ but he wasn’t really held back at all...
The main character Melody is also completely self-absorbed. Very strange characterisation for a 31 year old.
Wow. This is a must read for summer 2018. Utterly perfect! What a great first story to read by this author, I am very impressed. Where do I even start?
I started reading this book after a really stressful morning and it was just what I needed! The cover is lovely and I felt instantly at home and familiar with the town and characters from the start. It made me feel very welcome and calm like I’ve always been part of this town and familiar with the characters. It is a beautiful uplifting story about love and friendships.
Parts had me laughing out loud, my head in my hands at the blips and shouting for joy at all the happy parts. I cannot fault this book, it was just what I needed and I will shout about this book! I’ve found another new favourite author. Brilliantly written. It’s one of those books I didn’t want to finish but also had to finish and devour.
A must read from me. A well deserved five stars… Highly recommend. I cannot wait to read more by this author in the future.
I started reading this book after a really stressful morning and it was just what I needed! The cover is lovely and I felt instantly at home and familiar with the town and characters from the start. It made me feel very welcome and calm like I’ve always been part of this town and familiar with the characters. It is a beautiful uplifting story about love and friendships.
Parts had me laughing out loud, my head in my hands at the blips and shouting for joy at all the happy parts. I cannot fault this book, it was just what I needed and I will shout about this book! I’ve found another new favourite author. Brilliantly written. It’s one of those books I didn’t want to finish but also had to finish and devour.
A must read from me. A well deserved five stars… Highly recommend. I cannot wait to read more by this author in the future.