Member Reviews
🌊Warm notes in a breezy Yorkshire coastal town🌅
4.5🌟stars
Lovely ensemble of characters and a positive message!
What an enjoyable follow-up to Jessica Redland's Snowflakes Over the Starfish Cafe which first introduced a romance between grieving cafe owner Hollie and Jake. Here the couple again faces challenges and their colleagues and friends, so well-drawn, stand ready to help. The setting is the welcoming small Yorkshire town of Whitsborough Bay, a haven for summer seaside tourists.
I really liked the inclusion of mystery and mayhem involving the cafe, and the evolving relationship between local interior designer Tori and Finley, part of the lifeboat team that rescues Tori and her friends from a scary paddleboard excursion. Great pair to add to Hollie and Jake's circle of good friends, many of whom featured in other Redland novels set in Whitsborough Bay.
If you need a read where romance builds gradually and is sweet, good wins out, persistence pays off and fences can be mended, you've found it.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
What a treat to return to North Yorkshire and revisit past characters and meet new friends. I was completely drawn back into the world of the Starfish Cafe, and Whitsborough Bay and really cared that the characters could find solutions to their problems.
The work of the brave people who man the lifeboats for the RNLI is deftly written and the conservation of the beaches and the wildlife, especially the seals, tell an important message.
I am very much looking forward to the next instalment.
Immersive and engaging, Spring Tides at the Starfish Cafe is an escapist read, drawing you into the springtime adventures of a picturesque seaside town.
This is actually the second book in a series, although it can be read as a standalone, which is what I did. It would have been interesting to understand the backstory behind some of the characters and events mentioned, but this doesn't detract from the continuation of the story that happens in this book.
The plot is split between two main characters, Hollie and Tori. Hollie is the owner of the eponymous Starfish Cafe, looking for a way to keep her business thriving while enjoying her blossoming romance with boyfriend Jake. Tori is down on her luck after another failed relationship and is looking for a new start in life. A chance meeting with Tori brings the two women together and sets a chain of events in motion.
Although this is a fun, light-hearted read on the surface, it also has some important, deeper messages. The characters are learning to cope with grief and loss, and the way they bond over shared experiences is beautifully written.
There is also the theme of the RNLI and volunteer work that Hollie, Jake, and Finley do. This book highlights the bravery and dedication of these volunteers and showcases some of the rescues they complete on a daily basis, in all weathers. The RNLI is a vital, life-saving charity, and it's great to see it getting some well-deserved recognition in the pages of this book.
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.
The 2nd book in the series.
Another trip to starfish cafe, Hollie, Josh and their dog pickle are settling into their life together when the cafe is broke into and vandalised. Meanwhile Tori needs somewhere to stay after past secrets weigh heavily on her mind. She meets Finley and they open up to each other. Hollie and Tori’s paths cross, can they help each other to make a fresh start.
A brilliant read.
Jessica Redland has smashed it again! The second book in the series and it’s wonderful to be back with Hollie, Jack and Pickle (as well as every one else!)
It is a beautiful setting, the Yorkshire Coast and yet again makes me wish I could live by the sea. It’s lovely to see how lives have progressed and how their romance is going strong.
We are introduced to Tori this time and she fits right into the gang we already love. She had a difficult childhood and it really impacted on her and how she sees life. I loved getting to know her.
Spring Tides at the Starfish Café is packed with drama, intrigue, romance and some very cute seals!
Jessica Redland is such a good author, if you haven’t read any of her other series than I highly recommend them.
Another cracker from this author, fabulous to catch up with Hollie, Jane and other characters from previous books. Really likeable characters, if possibly a bit too good to be true. I really like the themes of this author's books which focus on friendship, community spirit and paying it forward, things sometimes lacking in today's world, lovely feel good book
Another delight from Jessica.
I loved this book even more than the first in the Starfish Cafe series - Snowflakes over the Starfish Cafe.. It wasn't as emotional and therefore easier to read. The main characters of Hollie and Jake are developed further and it's uplifting to read how the strength of their relationship inspires courage, confidence and self-belief.
The introduction of two new characters, Tori and Finley was another treat and I can't wait to read how things work out for all these characters in the third and final instalment of the wonderful Starfish Cafe Series. Thank you Jessica for another 'can't put down series' with lovely guest appearances from a few Whitsborough Bay favourites.
How wonderful be back with Hollie, Jack and Pickle and the whole gang at the Starfish Cafe.
This is an excellent second book in what is now appearing to be a trilogy, as it develops the characters from the first book a lot more, introduces new characters, and then sets up what could be a completely fabulous finale for the last book in the series!
And we also get to meet Tori and learn her story. Her childhood was rather unconventional and it really has shaped how she views life today, and it's that side of her story that really intrigued me, as well as hooked me in to loving her!
We have horrible exes to deal with, and let's not mention a slimy villain, that could almost give the Grimes family (from Jessica Redland's Hedgehog Hollow series), a run for their money, in terms of devious and criminal activities.
And there are seals, gotta love a book with a gorgeous animal in it, as well as so many great bits of plot, and action as we get to see more from the RNLI training too. Gotta love a bit of drama as well!
This is just a superb story from Jessica Redland, that I once more loved every second of it. This is an author on the rise to the top, who just keeps writing superb books that I can't get enough of. Bring on the next one - please don't make me wait!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
If you wondered what was going on with Hollie and Jake and their circle of friends from Snowflakes over The Starfish Cafe, this sequel will fill you in. There are also characters from another series that pop in and out.
I liked this book just fine. There was a little mystery that could have been more detailed. There was a new romance developing. Since there will be a final third installment, I'm sure we'll see a wedding or a baby from some (or all!) of these characters soon.
*I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I am required to disclose that in my review in compliance with federal law.*
What a lovely return to The Starfish Cafe, quite emotional at times but with such a warm community feeling, I enjoyed every moment
This is book number two in the Starfish Cafe series and what a treat to return here to catch up with the wonderful characters, old & new. We follow the story of Hollie & Jake and as their journey unfolds, we are introduced to lots of new characters which in turn create a fantastic story. This book has it all for me & I couldn't read it quickly enough. I was disappointed when it came to an end but then overjoyed when I read a third book is to follow.
I absolutely love a Jessica redland book. They are always so uplifting. The storytelling really transports you right to the heart of the book so that you feel that you are right there along with the amazing characters. Its fun and at times funny. Other times heartwarming and is just such a lovely happy book that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. Loved it.
Jessica Redland does it again! I don't know how such a prolific writer manages to turn out such quality books, is she the UK's version of Nora Roberts?
Anyway, as ever I loved this book! I feel that the Starfish Cafe series is that little bit extra special for me as it really resonates with my childhood home town, especially with the inclusion of the RNLI.
Hollie and Jake are such a fantastic couple, I loved getting to know them. Then we have Tori and Finley, from the start you are routing for them. At 20% in I knew what I wanted to happen with them through their relationship and their housing, I wasn't disappointed!
I love how both Hollie and Tori offer such practical advice and literally spell out what a loving, committed relationship should be like. And that you shouldn't settle for anything less.
Thank you NetGalley, Jessica Redland and Boldwood Books for the ARC of Spring Tides at The Starfish Café. This is my personal review.
Opening the pages of this book felt like I was going home. Being with Hollie and Jake and of course adorable Pickles their dog was a perfect way to spend a few hours.
This story carries on and lets us get to know more about their lives together. It also introduces us to Tori and Finley.
The author has the writing skills to make me really care about what was going on in the story. There was a lot going on in the book and yet nothing crowded out anything that was happening it all fit together.
Jessica Redland’s charming seaside town is waiting to welcome you back home! Spring Tides at The Starfish Café has all of your favorite characters from the first novel, along with some new faces.
Hollie is taking new chances in life and love! While beginning her new journey and deciding to join the RNLI crew, she literally pulls Tori and some of her friends out of a storm. With an unsuspected visitor at the café, family secrets, and potential romances in the air, there’s bound to be even more stormy weather on the way!
As a child of the coast, I thought I would be in love with this story! Unfortunately, it leaves a lot to be desired. The plot was slow moving and while there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a Hallmark Movie, the main conflicts were just as predictable. If I had not been asked to review this book, I would have skipped it. At least I had Pickle the dog to entertain me.
If you were a fan of Snowflakes Over The Starfish Café, or if you’re looking for a very casual read, you should still give it a try! Otherwise, I would recommend skipping.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is the sequel to Snowflakes at the Starfish Cafe which I only read last week so I was in the zone.
This is a brilliant sequel. We are at the Starfish Cafe just a few months on and everything seems to be going well for Hollie and Jake until it's not.
Life is throwing up other hurdle in the path of their happiness but with Hollie's determination and Jake's love they will get through it.
There are some new characters one being Tori who we meet just as she is coming to terms with the fact that her relationship with her boyfriend is not the kind she really wants. Tori is also estranged from her parents and sister because of incidents that happened seven years ago.
Her life is about to converge with Hollies during a life threatening situation. When Hollie gives her the same advice her mum gave her Tori is determined to change her life for the better.
I started this book yesterday afternoon and finished in the morning. Once I pick up one of Jessica's books it's very hard to put it down.
Anyone who thinks her books are love stories are completely wrong. She puts her characters in bad situations which they have to have courage and determination to get out of. People do fall in love and out of love but that is all part of life anywhere.
Most of her characters are strong women and if they are not strong at the beginning of the book they are certainly strong by the end. Every type of human emotion is tackled between these pages, many of them touched my heart.
Now that I have finished the book I am delighted to hear there will be a third book in the series.
Jessica Redland is fast becoming my favourite author.
Once again, Jessica Redland has woven a tale full of love, laughter, and just a few tears that gives the reader a sneak peak at the lives of some of our favorite characters. What I like best about this book is how relatable the characters are. I can see a bit of myself in so many of the characters that I find myself rooting for them all. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Just when I didn't think I could love the Starfish Cafe series anymore along comes book 2 and I just fell in love all over again.
I'm obsessed with Whitsborough Bay and have thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the characters (there are some other books set on the Bay and you get to meet the shop owners and learn their story).
I'm so excited to learn that there will be a book 3. The characters are like lifelong friends, Jessica's writing style is beautiful and I can picture everything in the book, it's almost like I'm watching a movie unfold.
Another 5 ⭐ read. I thoroughly enjoyed my break away in Whitsborough Bay.
This was such a charming, delightful slice of escapism. I truly love the way that this continues Hollie and Jake's story, whilst also introducing two new characters with their own challenges to overcome. Getting to read about Hollie and Jake again, and Pickle and the whole Starfish Cafe crew was like catching up with friends after a long break. And Tori and Finley's story was sweet, with enough depth to get me to fall in love with them too. I found some elements of Tori's backstory to be a little frustrating as I read them, her family's communication issues especially, but I enjoyed the resolution of this storyline. And I especially appreciated a female character who doesn't want to have children, and who isn't conflicted about it at all. Nobody in the book calls her selfish or makes a big deal out of it, its her choice and it's made clear without ever being a defining aspect of her character, which I found really refreshing. All in all, I can't wait to get back to Starfish Cafe next time.
I enjoyed reading the first book in the series (although it did make me cry) and I was pleased to discover that we were returning to Starfish Cafe to find out what happened next for Hollie and Jake.
This was a book I didn’t want to put down – lifeboat rescues, new friendships, relationship issues, estranged families, dodgy businessmen and the return of Pickle the dog.
Alongside Hollie and Jake’s story, we meet Tori in this book. I loved how Hollie and Tori helped each other in their time of need, and I think that that is one of the many reasons I enjoy reading Jessica’s books – I love how the local community pull together to help each other.
Another lovely book, great characters (including many familiar faces from Jessica’s other books) and I’m happy to recommend it. I’m also pleased to read that there will be another book in the series.