I love this author's stories and this one is true to her style.
Two sisters Willa and Harper share an apartment, have always been there for each other, be each other's haven in a storm. Harper however has gone through so much for being so young and Willa is constantly worrying over her like a mother hen. Their brother Lucas is around but he hasn't been able to be as hands-on in their lives.

After Harper is given a clean bill of health she makes plans however that do not include big sister Willa. So Will takes a bit of time for herself and falls madly for a man who keeps entering her coffee shop. Will he be her light in the upcoming storm? Absolutely heartfelt, gut-wrenching story. I love the journey the story takes us on. It truly could happen to anyone of us.

If you are looking for a feel good book, this is not it. Experiencing a very trying time in my life, I was happy to reach for a Debbie Macomber book. I don't even look at descriptions of her books before I pick them up. I should have this time.
The characters were well developed and the story was interesting. The romance in the book definitely took a backseat to the drama of the illness of one of the sisters in the story and there is tremendous sadness and lots of different forms of grief throughout the story. It's very much the personal journey of Willa.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.

With everything going on in the world, this book is a great reminder to appreciate life and take love when you find it. The characters are all normal, down to earth people trying to deal with the death of a young woman. The emotions are raw. The feelings are complex- not everyone deals with tragedy the same way.- but seemed real. I love the love stories intertwined amongst the grief. A great, quick read.

This story circles around Willa and Harper Lakey, sisters who are opposite. Willa owns a coffeehouse and her sister, a cancer survivor is her biggest supporter but also her biggest stressor! After Harper beat cancer, she has a new lease on life. Willa is worried she is overdoing it but Harper doesn't want to hear it from her sister/roommate.
One day, Harper notices a man coming in to the coffeehouse and decides this man is perfect for her sister. She encourages Willa to give him a chance and Willa and Sean hit it off.
But Sean's career as a photographer is not something Willa can handle. His constant travel puts a damper on their relationship, as does a life-altering change to the lives of the Lakey sisters.
Can Sean and Willa work out their relationship when life and trauma up end it? Will Sean put Willa first?

I read this book in less than 2 days. I couldn't put it down. I HAD to know what happens. My only issue with it is that it jumped right into the story and I had to learn more about the characters later. Oh, and too soon of an ending! Other than that, another wonderful story from Debbie Macomber.

When her mother died, Willa Lakey, barely a teenager, she had to take over keeping house and raising her baby sister, Harper. Their brother, Lucas, enlisted in the army; their father fell apart and started drinking.

Later, when Harper developed leukemia, Lucas came home to be as much help as possible, but their father fell apart even worse.

Willa become the one who did all the worrying and all the caretaking.

When Harper has been recovered from her leukemia, and is three years into being a fitness trainer, the sisters are still living together in a two-bedroom apartment, and Willa has opened and is having some success with her coffee shop, Bean There. Willa is determined to have stability and safety; Harper has starting enjoying her new-found life with a variety of risk-taking adventures, including bungee-jumping and, most recently, a plan to summit Mount Ranier. She also dates frequently, though no guy lasts very long. Willa, in contrast, rarely dates at all. Then Harper tells Willa a new customer in the coffee shop, Sean O'Malley, is the man for Willa.

Willa is sure guys only have eyes for Harper, but Sean surprises her. He has his own reasons to be cautious, and it takes them a while before they manage their first date--a quiet walk on the beach.

But Sean is a freelance photographer, still building his reputation, and that means a lot of travel, sometimes on short notice, sometimes to places that aren't at all safe. That's a real challenge for Willa. Harper isn't wrong when she says Willa is excessively mothering, always trying to keep everyone she cares about safe,

All three are going to face some major new challenges.

For Willa and Sean, that's going to be whether Willa can trust him with her heart, and whether Sean can find the right balance between his ambition and what he wants in his personal life.

This is a warm, loving story, with convincingly real characters who don't get everything they want in their happy endings. Nevertheless, there is a sizable helping of "happy ending" here. That remains true even if you don't count the rescue dog, Bandit, and the cute kitten, Snowball, both of whom do make its safely and happily to the end of the book.

Recommended.

I received a free electronic galley from the publisher via NetGalley, and am reviewing it voluntarily.

Debbie Macomber has done it again! What a great story of life, death, love, friends and family. I couldn't put it down. It made me cry and laugh. For anyone who's dealt with a family member with a chronic illness it hits home. Ms Macomber nails the feelings of pain , frustration, and acceptance of the inevitable.

The love and support for Willa, Harper, Lucas and their father after the death of their mother and wife followed shortly thereafter by Harper's leukemia diagnosis, was heartwarming. It continues as they all learn to deal with their new normal. The town rallies when the unthinkable happens and they learn what true friends offer in this game of life.

It's sad and happy all at the same time. Don't miss this one!

I received a free ARC eBook from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions.

Set in the oceanside town of… well… Oceanside, our heroine Willa runs a coffee shop. Shy and busy with making her coffee shop a success, love has not really come her way. Until one day, Willa’s more outgoing sister, Harper, encourages her to talk to a cute regular customer named Sean. Love blossoms, naturally, but not all is not perfect. Willa’s family has faced past hurdles, such as her mother’s death early on in her life, and more hurdles are yet to come. Willa was the glue and stand-in mother for her siblings in childhood, and it seems like she will have to take up the mantle again. But can Willa balance her business, her family’s needs, and her newfound love?
In one word, this book can be described as wholesome. There aren’t any graphic sex scenes, and the romance seems like a very “classic” courtship. There are no swear words, raunchy bits, or violence. And quite honestly, it was very refreshing. Hence, it seemed like a “break.” But then, Macomber throws in a couple of wrenches – trouble in paradise and family tragedy. I did not see the family tragedy coming. I thought the book was going to continue to be light and fun. Even though it did take a more serious turn that, I will admit, made me tear up a bit, it still felt like a heartwarming read.
My biggest criticism (which is actually small) is the sometimes stilted, overly formal dialogue. There were a few phrases that the characters said that made me think, “Eeh, no one really talks like that.” But I got over those thoughts quickly and would continue with the story. The pacing of the love that grew between the characters felt a little fast in some points, too. On their first date, there was some dialogue that I would have not felt comfortable saying on a first date. Maybe after a month or so of dating, but not the first. Some people are fast like that, but it didn’t feel in line with the characters and their first few conversations – they could barely exchange a few sentences out of nervousness. Suddenly, they’re talking about missing each other. Kind of speedy.
I can overlook these small criticisms, though, and can say that the book was entertaining. It was a quick, easy read, and I could see myself picking up one of her books again on a rainy day. A Walk Along the Beach had a dreamy, sweet quality like a Hallmark movie. And what do you know, when I turned to Macomber’s “About the Author” at the end of the book, several of her stories were turned into Hallmark productions.

A Walk Along The Beach
Debbie Macomber
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Two sisters must learn from each other’s strengths and trust in the redeeming power of love in a touching new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.

The Lakey sisters are perfect opposites. After their mother died and their father was lost in grief, Willa had no choice but to raise her sister, Harper, and their brother, Lucas. Then, as an adult, she put her own life on hold to nurse Harper through a terrifying illness. Now that Harper is better and the sisters are living as roommates, Willa has realized her dream of running her own bakery and coffee shop, bringing her special brand of caretaking to the whole Oceanside community.

Harper, on the other hand, is always on the go. Overcoming a terrible illness has given her a new lease on life, and she does not intend to waste it. When Harper announces her plan to summit Mount Rainier, Willa fears she may be pushing herself too far. Harper, for her part, urges Willa to stop worrying and do something outside of her comfort zone—like taking a chance on love with a handsome new customer.

Sean O’Malley is as charming as he is intriguing—a freelance photographer whose assignments take him to the ends of the earth. Soon Willa’s falling for him in a way that is both exciting and terrifying. But life has taught Willa to hedge her bets, and she wonders whether the potential heartache is worth the risk.

Life has more challenges in store for them all. But both sisters will discover that even in the darkest moments, family is everything. (Goodreads)

Review:

Willa has been a mother to her sister, Harper, ever since their mother died. Her dad fell apart and started drinking, so Willa picked up the responsibility for her sister. She has gotten Harper through cancer, and it seems like things might be working out. But Willa cannot help but being worried about Harper and prays that everything will be good from here on out.

Willa owns her own bakery/coffee shop and it is working out well. She has met Sean, a customer, that seems to be interested in her. She is definitely interested in him and they start hanging out together. But his job takes him away a lot and she has a hard time adjusting to that, and does not know if it will work out.

When tragic and traumatic events start happening, it will take all of Willa’s strength and faith to get through it. It will not only effect
Willa but all of the characters in the book.

This book made me laugh, cry and appreciate all of my loved ones. This book is very emotional and very well written. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written women’s contemporary book. I know when I get a book from this author I am in for a good read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.

Debbie Macomber's name on a book cover makes it an instant pick for me. She writes stories that warm my heart and make me feel good. This story has some of the feel good that I love so much, but also some deep sadness that makes me want to warn the reader to save this read for when you are going to be in a private location. I read it while waiting at a doctor's office, and was hard pressed to keep the tears from running down my face. This is Willa and Sean's story, but it also follows the journey of someone who has been dealing with cancer, and their continued fight. For me, the sadness overshadowed the happiness that finally comes for Willa and Sean. I want to thank Arrow Publishing and Netgalley for an advanced copy, in exchange for an honest review.

Life Is All About Love
This is a very emotional story about love. All types of love; family, friendship, romance, and even pets. There are tons of ways to express your love, but being there when you are needed is truly a gift. As with all of this author's books, This story just sucks the reader in and you can't put the book down. It is an all-encompassing story that I will be turning over in my mind for quite a while. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.

Debbie Macomber wrote A Walk Along the Beach in honor of her dearest friend who died of cancer. It tells the story of two sisters, one diagnosed with cancer, the other fighting alongside her. The book demonstrates appreciation for The American Cancer Society and the physicians who battle this cruel disease. The topic is an emotional one, and the book both difficult and therapeutic. It wasn't written for the reader wishing to escape reality, but for the one who wants to walk hand in hand with those facing the beast.

I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Ballantine Books via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.

A heartfelt, emotional journey that will leave you in tears throughout the book. Willa was forced into the mother role when he mom passed away when she was young and her dad couldn’t get over his heartbreak. She has always taken care if everyone, except herself. Sean is a man who has always been a little selfish, but wants to do better. When he finally works up the courage to ask Willa out, he realizes he is already all in. Unfortunately, even with the best of intentions he hurts Willa in the worst way and has to work to earn her trust again.
Willa’s sister, Harper, is the heart break in this story. She wants independence from her sister, and when she finally expressed that she gets some upsetting news. In a true test of new relationships, family and love, Willa and her family are put through the ringer. As difficult as this book was to read at times, I loved every minute of it. There were times when Willa was a little too stubborn and unforgiving, even if at the beginning it was justified. Sean proved himself to be the man I knew he was, it just took him a little time to get there.
I highly recommend this heart felt, emotional book. You will fall in love with the town and the characters. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.

A Walk Along the Beach is the newest novel written by Debbie Macomber. This beautifully told story about the bond between two sisters will tug at your heartstrings and it will definitely bring tears to your eyes, so have a box of tissue close by.

Willa Lakey has not had an easy life. After her mother died, she had to take over raising her sister, Harper, and her brother, Lucas. Her father was physically still there, but due to his grief, he checked out emotionally. Willa never complained, not even when she put her life on hold to take care of Harper when she was diagnosed with leukemia. They all made it through that difficult time, and life is back to normal. Willa now owns a coffee shop and bakery in their hometown of Oceanside, and life is good for the most part.

Harper has learned to make the most out of every day, especially after she almost died while battling leukemia. She has been taking risks she never did before, and has her sights set on a new goal...climbing Mount Rainier. Of course, her plan does not go over well with Willa, but Harper doe not let that get in the way. She understands why Willa is so protective, but it also has made Harper realize it is time to move out of the apartment she shares with Willa. It is finally time for them to both make lives of their own.

Sean O'Malley is a freelance photographer that travels the world on assignments. Whenever he is at home in Oceanside between assignments, he is a frequent customer at Bean There...and he does not even like coffee. He has his sights set on Willa, and is trying to work up the courage to ask her out. One afternoon while at Bean There, Harper introduces herself and invites him to sit and talk with her and Willa. It is obvious Harper is trying to play matchmaker, and he is perfectly okay with that. This gives him the boost of courage he needed, and shortly after, he asks Willa out on a date...they take "a walk along the beach" for their first date.

This is a review that is difficult to write without revealing too much. The story that unfolds is so beautifully told that it will evoke a wide range of emotions. The love between the Lakey siblings is a beautiful thing to experience, especially the bond between Willa and Harper. Willa is having a hard time letting go and allowing Harper to truly have her independence. Honestly, I understood both sides of that argument...but in the end, Willa's fears were justified. Lucas is the calming force in the family...he never overreacts and tends to look at all sides of a situation. As for Sean, I loved his character. It is so obvious that he cares deeply for Willa, but due to his past, he is also cautious.

Overall, Debbie Macomber perfectly weaves together a beautifully written story about grief, love, and the bonds between family. It is a story about love and loss, and everything in between...including how to overcome whatever obstacles are thrown in the way. I laughed and I cried because this story is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. The author has a personal note at the beginning of the book explaining that this was a book written out of love and from the grief she experienced when she lost her best friend to cancer. She wrote this book in the memory of her dear friend, Roberta Stalberg, and that loves shines through on every page. What a beautiful story and wonderful way to honor their friendship!

I would like to thank Debbie Macomber, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine, and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of A Walk Along the Beach. My views are my own, and are in no way influenced by anyone else.

This charming book chronicles the relationship of two sisters that lost their mother early in life. Explores the roles they took on as a result of their mothers death and subsequent inability of their father to be the man he wanted and needed to be. Willa, the older sister, had to take on the mother role for her younger sister, Harper. If that wasn’t hard enough, Harper having leukemia adds more trauma to their lives. Later on things take a turn for the worst just as Will thinks she finds the man of her dreams. Set by the beach in picturesque Oceanside, this book will make you feel a wide range of emotions!

While this was an excellent book, it was difficult for me to read. It touched on one of the most tragic areas of my own life. A little more than twenty years ago, my son was stricken with an aggressive form of leukemia and passed away eighteen months later.

In this story, we follow the life of Willa Lakey, who is the older sister of Harper. Harper is in remission after struggling, dreadfully, with chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant after being diagnosed with leukemia.

Harper is finding her feet again but Willa can’t help from hovering over her and watching her like a hawk. Willa has devoted her life to Harper and to opening her coffee shop when Sean O’Malley comes into her life.

Sean is a photographer who has reinvented his life after a career changing injury. He meets Willa and is instantly smitten. Willa is a little more hesitant. She doesn’t have the time to devote to a relationship, especially when she is still keeping watch over Harper.

The story is mostly about Willa and how she interacts with the people and events in her life.

As I said, the book meant a lot to me personally. It spoke aloud some of the feelings I have had since my son became ill. I laughed and I cried a whole lot as I read this book. I will certainly read it again.

A Walk Along the Beach is Debbie Macomber at her best. The relationships, the character development the emotional richness and the surprise twist are all in this one story of family, especially sisters. Everyday people and life experiences are written in a way that only a person who has had some real life experiences could do. Be prepared for some laughs, some tears and some “Ahh” moments as you read this book.

Fans of Debbie Macomber will devour the book. New readers are sure to become die-hard fans after reading A Walk Along the Beach.

The publisher through Net Galley provided an ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

I received an ARC copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion of it. I went into this book not really knowing what it was about as I love everything by this author. I didn't know it was going to be so sad. Willa is more like a mother figure to her sister Harper when their mom passes away especially after Harper is diagnosed with leukemia. Willa buys and runs a coffee shop and Harper becomes a matchmaker for Willa. Harper seems to be doing all kinds of crazy things and Willa feels like she is marking things off on her bucket list and she knows something she is not sharing. Without giving too much away, I did enjoy this book. However, I really did not feel any chemistry between Willa and Sean and was surprised and disappointed in the ending.

Debbie Macomber’s latest book is a roller coaster ride of emotions. Willa Lakey had to take on the responsibility of her siblings after their mom died suddenly and her father went into a spiral that basically made him useless. Willa had no problems with Lucas, the brother who took care of himself. But Harper was another story since she ended up with an illness that could kill her. I really enjoyed the family feel of the story. Then the love interest entered the scene, in the form of Sean O’Malley, a travel photographer who falls hard for responsible Willa. Sean begins to teach Willa how to have fun and leave a little of her burdens behind. When the conflict comes, which is inevitable in Macomber’s contemporary romances, I thought that I was ready for it. I began wringing my hands and hoping for the best. The situation was not what I had expected so I was caught off guard with this surprise plot element. The book was an excellent example of contemporary romance and had me crying and cheering in just the right places. The ending, however, seemed just too fast and not satisfactory for me at all. This abrupt ending left me wanting more of the story and for everything to be wrapped up with a bow, which did not happen. Fans of Macomber and contemporary romance will enjoy the book, but keep a box of tissues handy.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

The author’s notes at the beginning of the book should have warned me what I was in for in reading this book. It is not giving away the plot to tell you it deals with cancer and had a very personal connection to Ms Maccomber. It also has a very personal connection for me also and it hit very close to home. I shed quite a few tears reading this book. However, I can always count on this author to give me an in depth story about family and relationships. Willa, And Harper are sisters who are best friends. This story revolves around their relationship. But Sean also plays a big part of the story. It weaves well as the 2 stories intersect. Although a hard story for me, Ms Maccomber put into words many of my feelings no matter how heart wrenching. Loved the story.

This book is typical Debbie Macomber: beautiful setting, relationship and character driven story, and amazing writing. This is one author that I can always count on to provide me with an enjoyable read. The bond between the Lakey sisters was realistic and relatable. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.