Wendy Wax is back with the ladies of Ten Beach Road and Kyra Singer’s best friend Sydney Ryan. Sydney’s career in Hollywood has been derailed since her character on a long running police drama has been sent to rehab, never to return to the show. She’s back in Treasure Island, Florida taking time off with her grandmother, the delightful Lillian. A suspicious series of break-ins at Lillian’s new townhouse brings her teenage love, now policeman, Luke back into her life. While Luke tries to discover why Lillian is being targeted, Sydney helps her grandmother’s friend Myra open a new bookstore at the beach.

Wendy Wax is the master of the beach read and Just Beach is no exception! New characters join familiar ones, a mystery boils in the background while the ladies toast the sunset with good memories of the day and Cheetos. Put this one in your beach bag although it is so good you may never go into the water! 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and Wendy Wax for this ARC.

This book is a perfect beach read, blending romance with just the right amount of mystery and action. The characters are vibrant and entertaining, and I especially loved Grand—she’s the kind of spunky, inspiring woman I hope to be in my 80s! This was my first book by this author, and while I did sense there might be more backstory to some of the secondary characters, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment. I’m looking forward to exploring more of this author’s work!

This book is a perfect escapist read for anyone craving a feel-good, small-town romance with a splash of mystery. The setting is vibrant and the plot engaging. Sydney’s journey to self-discovery and the blossoming friendships around her feel authentic, making this novel a delightful ride from start to finish.