Erin Bryce, the main character in Cottage by the Sea by Robin Jones Gunn, says it all when she wonders how many women would love to step out of their routines and contemplate life on the Oregon coast. Reading this novel is almost as good as staying at the reclusive, cottage hideaway in the book and listening to the ocean roar from the open kitchen window. But it's not a vacation for Erin. She's there to tend to her father and make some hard decisions about his care, her life, and the new bridal business she started with a friend.

As I read, I found myself settling into the quiet spirit that embodies the novel. I loved the way Robin Jones Gunn wove a simple tale of real-life human experience with loveable characters and a beautiful setting. It's been a while since I visited a bookstore and paid full price for a book. This one was worth every penny.