Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is the second book in the series, and while it can be enjoyed without reading the first book, I believe it still offers enough emotional depth and context for newcomers to jump right in. This novel takes you on an emotional rollercoaster—combining anxiety, lust, moments of hope, and intense anger, making for a gripping and unpredictable read.

The characters are well-drawn, and there are definitely a few that will leave you frustrated. Robyn, in particular, stands out as a character who seems to be deserving of some serious karmic retribution. Her actions will leave readers questioning why others even tolerate her, adding a layer of tension to the plot.

For fans of Desperate Housewives or tales involving the rich and famous, this book offers the same kind of compelling drama. It's a perfect read for a relaxing day at the beach, though be prepared to feel the urge to shake a few of the characters (or perhaps throw the book across the room in frustration).

Overall, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is a satisfying and emotionally charged novel that keeps you hooked, even if you’re occasionally shaking your head at the characters' decisions.

Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the DRC!

I did not read the first book in this series so I'm basing this review solely off what i read and know from this book alone. I do not understand why authors continue to market toxic, abusive relationships as romance novels. this was not a romance novel. this promotes women to think its ok for narcissistic men to treat you poorly as long as they tell you they love you. no thanks.

Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage was the perfect escape, and i did read it after i read the third one. I was drawn to the story right away and i loved the lighthearted moments being combine with the depth of relationships and forgiveness. It was such a lovely read.

Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage was the perfect escape from my recent snowy days, bringing the warmth of Micklewick Bay right into my home. From the very first page, I was drawn into Maggie's world, her handmade teddy bear business, her pregnancy news, and the life she shares with her husband, Bear, at their cottage. But when Robyn (Rolls eyes- lol), an unexpected visitor from her past, shows up, things take an unexpected turn. I loved the blend of lighthearted moments and deeper themes about relationships, forgiveness, and the challenges life throws at you. Maggie’s hobby was such a charming touch, and it made the whole story feel even more special.

This was my first trip to Micklewick Bay, but it’s definitely not my last. The mix of fun and heart gave me a lot to think about, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary stories about marriages facing outside challenges, values inventive women, and loves small-town settings with characters that linger a little too long.

The Beautiful People by Michelle Gable is a captivating novel set against the glamorous backdrop of the 1960s Jet Set, blending historical figures, dazzling social scenes, and a tale of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery. Gable brings the era to vivid life as we follow Margo Hightower, a failed debutante, as she transitions from scandal and financial ruin to a thrilling new job as an assistant to photographer Slim Aarons.

Thrown into a world of high society, Margo’s journey takes her from glittering parties in Acapulco to the refined wealth of Palm Beach. Through her eyes, readers are introduced to the world’s most beautiful and influential people, from Hollywood stars to royalty. But Margo’s life truly changes when she forms a bond with the rising fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer, whose friendship offers both personal growth and dangerous entanglements.

Gable’s storytelling is rich and immersive, capturing the essence of the time and the allure of the privileged world Margo is eager to be part of. The relationships between characters—particularly Margo’s complicated friendship with Lilly—add emotional depth to the otherwise sparkling narrative. Themes of loyalty, identity, and the price of social climbing emerge as Margo navigates the web of secrets and desires that come with the glittering life.

For readers who enjoy tales of the rich and famous, The Beautiful People offers a perfect blend of escapism and substance. Gable’s well-researched, beautifully written novel shines a light on the lives of fascinating, complex characters who live in a world full of both charm and danger. A delightful and insightful read, it’s a perfect choice for fans of historical fiction and stories of friendship against the backdrop of glamour.

The perfect summer read. Whether it's blaring sunshine or tipping it with rain, this story will transport you to the place you want to be

This is the second book of the Micklewick Bay series, I read them out of order and got to this one last, however, I think that this could work well as a standalone story as well, so don't skip it if you haven't read the first, it's definitely still worth it!
We meet Maggie, who lives with her husband Bear and whose Teddy Bear creation business is thriving. On top of that, she's finally expecting her first child, after years of trying. Trouble starts brewing when her cousin, Robyn, who she's not seen for over a decade turns up unexpected at her doorstep. Maggie welcomes her, in spite of their past, but will this doom her relationship and future plans? As Robyn's presence starts to create havoc, the close-knit community of Micklewick Bay rallies around the Maggie and Bear, embodying the strong sense of friendship and support that defines Micklewick Bay.
It's important to note that, even though the look of the book may deceive and make you think it's a lighthearted rom com, it does touch on some dark topics as well.

I enjoyed Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage. I connected well with Maggie.

I loved Maggie and Bear’s relationship and are a strong couple. A distant relative comes into their lives and tries to destroy their relationship!

The story was great and I loved finding out what was going to happen. This author always writes great stories.

I enjoyed the return trip to Micklewick Bay. Although there are some familiar characters in the background, this is Maggie and Bear's story and what an uplifting tale it is. Living in the idyllic clifftop setting in their beautiful cottage, they are happily getting on with their lives until the arrival of an unwelcome guest. Maggie is too kind for her own good some times, but even her patience s stretched to the limit.

With Bear's close-knit family nearby and a strong circle of friends, there are plenty to keep a look out for Maggie, although she has a few secrets of her own. She also needs to recognise her own talents and put herself first more often. This is a lovely, uplifting read for those who enjoy a spot of romance set in a beautiful environment.

In short: uplifting reading

I loved this book so much! It felt like I was in my happy place! I would definitely recommend this book.

A really lovely book. Maggie and Bear have to deal with her cousin who likes to cause trouble and make her life very difficult. I loved their relationship, the characters the village and her job making handmade luxury bears. I want to read the rest of the series

Loved Maggie and her teddy bears but was expecting so much more from the sinister cousin- the way she is introduced has axe murderer coming through as a main personality trait but the reality is much tamer and a bit of a let down given the build up!
That said it is a great read in a picturesque setting full of detail.

What a wonderful uplifting story that kept me gripped until the end. It was full of friendships and hope with plenty of colourful characters thrown in!

I did not realise it was the second book in a series of three but that did not take any enjoyment as it stood alone. It held everything you would want from a summer read and lots of hope too. I was reading into the small hours

In the second book in the Micklewick Bay series, Scott brings her readers back to Yorkshire and Micklewick Bay where Maggie Marsay and her husband Bear are thriving. With a successful teddy bear business and a happy surprise, life here is good for Maggie, Bear, and their friends and family. However, Maggie’s manipulative and cruel cousin Robyn has resurfaced in their town, and Maggie is immediately suspicious because of their last interaction a decade ago. As Robyn’s presence starts to sour Maggie’s successes, it affects Maggie’s relationships with her friends and Bear, so Maggie and her loyal friends must band together to protect each other and Maggie and Bear’s relationship. With kind, complex, and realistic characters, Scott has populated Micklewick Bay with some fantastic personalities. Robyn is an excellent antagonist, and Maggie and Bear’s relationship is particularly fun and heartwarming to follow. Micklewick Bay is a charming Yorkshire town with a beautiful location on the beach. The combination of characters and setting creates a fantastic atmosphere as a backdrop to the high emotional and personal stakes in this novel. With great characters, a detailed setting, and a realistically complex plot, Scott’s latest novel is an excellent continuation of the Micklewick Bay series which readers are sure to enjoy.

This was such a sweet, adorable little read. The author is a master of description and vivid detail of the world she built.

i didnt realise this was the second book in a series but i dont think it made much difference, in fact to be honest I probably wouldnt have read it if I'd known that as I felt it was very slow and far too much descriptive deal all the way through. the main characters despite being a couple didnt seem very convincing at all even with a much wanted pregnancy. unfortunately this one missed the mark for me

BOOK: SUMMERTOP AT THE ROOFTOP COTTAGE
AUTHOR: ELIZA J SCOTT
PUB DATE: MAY 2023
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REVIEW; 3.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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I read another book in this series, and my feelings towards were similar. Both of them were slow paced, contained too much information and an annoying main character(not the villain)
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I liked the storyline of a marriage on the rocks and the couples working together. But, I'm just annoyed at Mary and Bear, especially Bear. Mary should have trusted her instincts and avoided her villainous cousin and Bear should have never been that nice and naive to Robyn. He got annoying close to the middle of the book. Nevertheless, he was a good, loving husband
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I admired Mary's business acumen and I liked her teddy bears although I didn't see then at all. The author's description was on point.
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I also liked the side characters of Bear's parents and Mary's friends.
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This book was nice, I just wanted some things to be excluded. I don't know of I would be reading more books in the series

A perfect summer read which leaves the reader with warm feelings. I loved the idea of a successful teddy bear making business and also the exploits of the cheeky Labrador - two of my favourite things,

This book kept me interested and turning the pages as I wanted to know whether things turned out well in the end for Maggie despite the machinations of Robyn. I won’t spoil the plot for others though.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for a free advanced copy in exchange for an honest review

After finishing the first instalment of the ‘Micklewick Bay’ series I couldn’t wait to read the second which is ‘Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage’ and this story focuses on Maggie who is part of the friend group of Florrie who we meet in book 1. I still feel like these can be read in any order though which is just fab.

Maggie and Bear are settled in their lives in Micklewick Bay with a strong marriage. Robyn, Maggie’s estranged cousin invades their lives with no warning whatsoever.

I feel like flew through this story, especially the second half I just didn’t want to put it down. It did also keep me company when I couldn’t sleep so thanks to Eliza for that 😊 I love this friend group and getting to know the residents of Micklewick Bay a lot better.

I loved Maggie and Bear and their relationship as a whole it’s a relationship I love to have with my own partner and I know we do have that. I obviously didn’t like Robyn very much but you will find out why when you read it for yourself!

I can’t wait to read the third instalment to this series actually sooner rather than later 🥰 Eliza J Scott just gives you the perfect escapism with her stunning settings and characters. It’s a community I’d want to be a part of. I highly recommend you grab this series qnd a cuppa and enjoy 💖

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is a contemporary novel following Maggie, her husband Bear, and Maggie's cousin Robyn. Robyn unexpectedly arrives at Maggie's door after years of estrangement, causing turmoil in Maggie and Bear's lives. Robyn is the nightmare house guest, overstaying her welcome, using expensive items without permission, and even trying to cozy up to Bear. Maggie, a sympathetic character, struggles to tell Bear she’s pregnant after years of trying, while also managing a new contract for her handmade stuffed bears. The story explores themes of marriage strained by external pressures, pregnancy, and creativity. It's ideal for readers who enjoy small-town contemporary romances with elements of family drama and personal growth.