Anything with books and the beach will catch my attention - this is such an appealing cover. I mean, who would not want to escape with a book to the sea? So if you are after a light, sweet story with romance then reading this book is sure to fit the bill.

Readers must note that this is a ‘Christian’ read and there are references to Church, prayer and God - not overly so - yet it does set the tone. A light romance centring around a second chance at love with themes of hope and fortitude. The read will be predictable, as books of this genre often are.

Whilst I found the read light and easy I did struggle to connect with the leads of Sophie and Aiden. Without enough real background detail of their first time round, I found the great resentment to be overwrought, the anger unwarranted and therefore fell a bit flat in my opinion. I also felt the relationship Sophie had with her father and siblings - whilst highly likely for some people in certain circumstances - was a little too over the top with how far she went to accommodate them. In many ways it proved rather frustrating.

So if you are in the mood for a quick read with a book store set up (about halfway into it) and a love reconnection romance, this might be the one for you.

“I’ve always been an avid reader, and I worked at a library in Raleigh. I love how books can transport you to another place. You get caught up in the characters’ lives, and they become your friends. I guess I want to share my love of reading with others.”


This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Denise Hunter's books always suck me in, and this book was no different. Swoony and tense at just the right moments, I loved the main characters (and saw myself in Sophie). The sudden realizations the characters come to about themselves in the end was just a little too easy; in real life, those habits would be waaaay harder to change and wouldn't just happen overnight. But if you can suspend your disbelief, you will definitely enjoy this story!

Denise Hunter is exactly where you should turn when looking for a romance novel. This story is a second chance romance, which is one of my favorites. These two, Aiden and Sophie, have nothing if not chemistry! They were in a serious relationship until Sophie's mother is bed-ridden and Aiden is offered a partnership away from where they live. Now, seven years later, they have a second chance, but they must work through their past, and each of the obstacles that keep them apart. I really enjoyed the beach setting of this story and what book lover doesn't love a story with a bookshop in it!?! I also love it when authors include characters from previous books. This was a nice surprise in Bookshop by the Sea. If you love sweet romance stories, definitely give this book a try!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Sophie has always been the "rock" and glue that kept her family together. Passing up her own opportunities and putting her life on hold, is it finally time for her to have her dreams come true? When her sister , Jenna gets married, she knows she will have to deal with some past hurt feelings when she sees Aiden. After all, he is the grooms best friend and sure to be there.
Aiden left their cozy hometown when he was 18 to live the life he wanted and to build a future. He knows he hurt Sophie by leaving but still has feelings for her. Will he be able to get her to forgive him?
A sweet second chance romance story. We all remember our first teenage love and sometimes it takes time for them to experience life, grow up and finally realize what was right in front of them is still there.
A perfect blend of family devotion, misunderstandings, heartwarming moments, friendships, beautifully described bookshop setting, unpredictable weather, sweet romance and oh, an adorable doggie, Pippa.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this story that I really enjoyed. I look forward to reading more books by Denise Hunter!

I really enjoyed this Denise Hunter. Bookshop by the Sea is a second chance trope. There is a sweet romance, family relationships with just a bit of spiritual belief thrown in. The characters are everyday people with hopes and dreams and problems that sometimes seem overwhelming.
Sophie and Aiden have a past that ended painfully and have lots to work through in order to be able to step forward with their relationship. Things need to change for both of them and that change isn't going to be easy, but everybody knows they were meant to be. Can they face the challenges in their relationship and finally make it work?
Denise Hunter's writing has an ease about it that leads you to the end like a slow stroll through the park.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

Sophie has been waiting almost all her life for "her turn". She was forced to skip college to stay home with her very-ill mother; she spent most of her time since taking care of her Mom, brother and sister, whom their Dad deserted when he discovered Mom was sick. Her obligations to family drove a wedge between her and her high school love, Aiden, who moved away to start a business after school.

On the heels of organizing her sister's wedding, Sophie is setting up her own business, one that she and her Mom dreamed of for years, a bookshop by the sea. Aiden, who attended the wedding, gets stranded in Piper's Cove with Sophie due to a hurricane, and Sophie injures her ankle at the same time. Aiden, feeling somewhat responsible, decides to stay and help Sophie finish getting the shop ready in time for the big opening and an author visit.

Along the way, between sanding floors, painting walls and cleaning up after a huge tree falls into the shop, Aiden and Sophie start to find their way back to each other's hearts. The question is, will Sophie be able to free herself from her family obligations to focus on Aiden, or will he feel like he's not enough for her and run away?

This book is a stand-alone novel, but you'll find at least two characters from the Bluebell Inn series that make their way into the storyline! It's a sweet, clean romance that moves along fast. I always enjoy books by Denise Hunter and am looking forward to her next release.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

4 stars / This review will be posted at BookwormishMe.com today .

Sophie Lawson is starting over. For years she put her life on hold to care for her ailing mother and siblings. Now she’s moved to Piper’s Cove where she will be opening a bookstore, a dream that she shared with her late mother. Today is the day when her younger sister will marry and then Sophie is on her own.

But first Sophie needs to get through the wedding and seeing her ex for the first time in years. Years since he walked away from their relationship that she thought was solid. Years that she’s tried to move on but hasn’t been so successful. Sophie is still carrying quite a grudge. Hopefully she can get through this without too much trouble. Then a hurricane hits and all Sophie’s plans are thrown to the wind.

From prolific writer Denise Hunter is another Hallmark movie-worthy book. I was so in need of this book to lighten my mood and take me away to a beautiful location. What more could you ask for? A wedding, beachside location, former flame returns, family drama all combined to make for a really enjoyable read. While I’d never read any of Hunter’s work before, I am going to add her to my “to read” list for the future when my life needs a little escapism.

There is something about cozying on a cold bluster weekend with a Denise Hunter book. She brings you home again, even when you have never visited her little town before. Bookshop by the Sea made me want to go out and open my own bookstore. She does remind us how much work it would be even without a hurricane, but the friendships and people you meet is priceless.
Hunter has ability in her writing to make you enjoy your time together with new friends. Making you wish that you could move into the neighborhood and live there forever.

If you are looking for a beach read for the summer, Bookshop by the Sea will be the perfect read! Denise Hunter has worked her magic once again in this novel about two broken up high school sweethearts who are brought together again for a wedding.
Sophie has given up her own dreams to care for a chronically ill mom and to meet her siblings every need. Aiden left their hometown after senior year to start a business in tandem parachuting. Sophie gets her dream of opening a bookshop in a beach town, but many sudden obstacles start happening. Luckily, Aiden is in town to help her succeed in her dream.
I enjoyed Bookshop by the Sea. It's a light romance that is Hunter's trademark, but characters and setting are amazing.
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson through Net Galley, but all opinions are my own.

I loved the book for 2 reasons.
1. Denise Hunter is one of my favourite Christian romance author.
2. The book had a bookshop in it and my God that was a super plus for me.
3. The absolutely gorgeous cover.

Swoony and amazing book. The growth the characters went through was very inspiring and had various lessons to be learnt.
Denise Hunter is a very skilled writer and this books was no exception. The story was simple but yet profound.
Forgiveness, a second chance at love never looked better liked it looked in this book.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.

What a feel good story of second chances! Sophie is an amazing character. For all the sacrifices she has made for her family, she remains strong and hopeful. When Sophie and Aiden's paths cross again, it seems like it was fated. The story has some very strong messages of forgiveness and second chances. I was left feeling hopeful and positive. I enjoyed the book from beginning to end. I hope there are more books coming in this locale as the town was full of interesting characters! I received an advance copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.

With thanks to netgalley,Thomas Nelson Publishing, And Denise Hunter Author for an early copy in return for an honest opinion.
Having just finished quite a heavy going book I was looking for an nice light read and this was just perfect, my first time reading this author and thoroughly enjoyed a summer seaside read with a perfect bookshop in the midst, good characters and a nice storyline made for an enjoyable read.

Bookshop by the Sea was a sweet romance story. Sophie and Aiden were likeablr characters with only small flaws- their fears of abandonment. Sophie’s family was not so likeable but her new family at the bookstore was great. I could read books about some of them. While some deep discussions do occur, this is overall a light read that I really needed right now.

Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter was a sweet read about a second chance at love. Piper’s Cove was where Jenna wanted to get married and Sophie Lawson did everything she could to make that a reality for her sister. Sophie did so much of the planning and just needed to get the wedding over. Then Sophie saw the best man Aiden Maddox, her high school sweetheart and all the hurt came back. He left just when her life fell apart.

Once her sister was married and her brother started his new job, it was her turn! Sophie was opening a book store right in town AND had the timeline all planned out with an opening by a famous novelist. Someone had lent her a place to stay and once the wedding was over - well it was all about the store. Until Aiden showed up - and a hurricane - and a sprained ankle and - well so much all got in the way of the store opening. Sophie knew she was in trouble.

Bookshop by the Sea reminds us of hope, courage and fortitude. As well as the graciousness of people to help others. The novel was a feel good novel with a romantic bent that was sigh worthy. Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter was a good read.

Sweet Christian novel that includes family issues, forgiveness and romance. Characters are believable, likeable, and interesting. Includes several 'Godwink' moments. It is a quick read and flows nicely. Refreshing to read a 'clean' book for a change. Great beach or anytime read. The blurb gives adequate background so no book report from me. Read the cover!
I was provided an advanced reader copy of this book and was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, Thomas Nelson publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book.

Bookshop By The Sea is a sweet second chance romance. Hunter is such a wonderful author. I can always count on a good read from her. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline. The heroine sets up a bookshop by the sea and her ex from high school helps her get it ready. With lots of bumps along the way it made for a delightful and enjoyable read.

Also, it was a fun surprise to get a visit in this book from Molly and Adam (Nathaniel Quinn) from Lake Season in this story.
*I received a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers and this is my honest opinion.

Bookshop by the Sea is the latest tale from Denise Hunter. Following family trauma, which included her mother's health failing and her father walking away, Sophie Lawson must put her dreams on hold in order to help her siblings move forward with their own lives!

Now, it is time for Sophie to focus on her dream of opening a bookstore in a small town by the sea. First, she must take part in her sister Jenna's wedding. Sophie cannot believe it when she comes face-to-face with the best man. It is none other than her former boyfriend, Aiden Maddox. Although they experienced a rough break-up years ago, you sense their old feelings are still close to the surface!

When a hurricane threatens the area, Sophie and Aiden end up riding out the storm together. Soon, after the storm hits, Sophie sprains her ankle and Aiden decides to delay his trip home to help Sophie prepare her bookshop for its grand opening!

Hang on to see if Aiden and Sophie are able to overcome the same issues that initially ended their relationship. Hopefully, they can find a new place to safely land!

I received an e-copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter is focused on romance and a love of books. In my opinion, that makes a great book.

A must read for every summer book list! A story of second chances that leaves you rooting for love and forgiveness. Sophie has a lot to be bitter about, but she isn’t. She just wants to get her book shop up and running. Then Aiden, her true love who shattered her heart, reappears and everything goes topsy turvy. Through circumstances beyond their control, they are forced to return to the past and look at the events that tore them apart. The chemistry and tension are palpable, which makes the healing all the more a soothing balm. I highly recommend this clean, contemporary, beach romance. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC for an honest review.

This book is a bit predictable. But it is a pleasant diversion from murder mysteries. No one dies or is killed. The language is clean and the romance is descriptive enough for you to get the idea without being grossed out. Family dynamics plays a big part of this book. How siblings rely on the strongest one is paramount. You may want to strangle a few, but they come around in the end.

I will look for more books by this author. the book was very well written.