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Rebecca's Cove
Chicago native B.J. Warren travels to the Florida island of Ana Lia to care for her grandmother's house after her grandmother has an accident and breaks her hip. Nothing and no one on the island is anywhere near what BJ would call normal. The island inhabitants exist in a world that cares little for what folks do on the mainland. The center of activity for their society revolves around a diner called Rebecca's Cove where the self-centered B.J. alienates just about every member of the small community. But, she meets her match in a local woman, Hobie Lynn Allen. This is not a love at first sight story as both women find the other completely annoying and self-righteous. However, the island—and Rebecca's Cove—have an odd way of changing the way folks view their world and the people around them. Sometimes it's not a matter of what you're seeing, but rather, the position from which you see it.
292 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2003
3 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Maas
8 books63 followersLJ Maas was a full time author and artist. She also found time in her busy schedule to teach computer graphics and writing classes at a local college. She is the author of six published novels Tumbleweed Fever, None So Blind, Meridio's Daughter, Prairie Fire, Rebecca's Cove, Journey's End (the first book in the Conqueror Series) and several very popular fan fiction stories. LJ Maas is the Royal Academy of Bards 2005 Hall of Fame Author.
LJ Maas passed away October 29, 2005, leaving behind a legion of fans and friends who were devastated by her untimely loss. Not only a gifted storyteller and author, LJ Maas was a gentle soul who left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
LJ Maas passed away October 29, 2005, leaving behind a legion of fans and friends who were devastated by her untimely loss. Not only a gifted storyteller and author, LJ Maas was a gentle soul who left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 19, 2015
Feb 2014 - Did another reread and, yep, still love it!
I finished my second reading of this book and I'm trying to think of a good reason not to give it 5 stars. I'd probably go with 4.5 because there were a couple typos (one was funny so it didn't bother me at all).
This is a perfect example of a romantic comedy in print. I laughed out loud many times and truly didn't want it to end.
I had already read all of Maas' other work before I discovered this one and it was nothing like what I had expected. The rest of her work is pretty serious in tone but this is light hearted and funny and I wish she would have had so much more time with us. I think she could have been one of the greats in the Lesfic world.
I finished my second reading of this book and I'm trying to think of a good reason not to give it 5 stars. I'd probably go with 4.5 because there were a couple typos (one was funny so it didn't bother me at all).
This is a perfect example of a romantic comedy in print. I laughed out loud many times and truly didn't want it to end.
I had already read all of Maas' other work before I discovered this one and it was nothing like what I had expected. The rest of her work is pretty serious in tone but this is light hearted and funny and I wish she would have had so much more time with us. I think she could have been one of the greats in the Lesfic world.
September 21, 2012
Fantastic summer read. Light, engrossing, hilarious. Exactly what I wanted! I want more of this. More funny characters that are flawed, but in a way that makes them endearing instead of irritating. That is what I am always looking for in a romantic comedy novel. Take note authors, you are on notice! Entertain me! Like this!
September 25, 2014
BJ and Hobie are like fire and ice; they exist in a constant state of irritated attraction which only gets worse as both are trapped on a small island in the Florida Keys.
This book is highly amusing; the witty banter between the protagonists sparkles, and is backed by shown episodes of slapstick and absurdity scattered throughout the novel. Possibly my favourite section of the book has one of the main characters attacked by a nine-foot high mini-putt-putt chicken (and yes - it is as glorious as it sounds). The protagonists are well formed, flawed, and believable (to a point - this is a romantic comedy). Alas, it is clear this is ascended Xena fanfiction - writers really need to alter the descriptions of the two lovers so it's not so obvious - but the personalities of the characters are sufficiently unique to cause this to be a non-issue. The strange sub-plot involving the old ladies on the island quickly spiraled out of hand into the downright stupid, but it was not enough to keep me from enjoying a very well crafted, very fun novel, with a lot of character.
If you're going to read a lesbian romantic comedy novel, then this is the one I'd recommend.
This book is highly amusing; the witty banter between the protagonists sparkles, and is backed by shown episodes of slapstick and absurdity scattered throughout the novel. Possibly my favourite section of the book has one of the main characters attacked by a nine-foot high mini-putt-putt chicken (and yes - it is as glorious as it sounds). The protagonists are well formed, flawed, and believable (to a point - this is a romantic comedy). Alas, it is clear this is ascended Xena fanfiction - writers really need to alter the descriptions of the two lovers so it's not so obvious - but the personalities of the characters are sufficiently unique to cause this to be a non-issue. The strange sub-plot involving the old ladies on the island quickly spiraled out of hand into the downright stupid, but it was not enough to keep me from enjoying a very well crafted, very fun novel, with a lot of character.
If you're going to read a lesbian romantic comedy novel, then this is the one I'd recommend.
January 9, 2015
I like a little magic and witchcraft as long as it is not too much. The dose in this book was just right!
April 11, 2021
I couldn't finish it :(
September 1, 2014
A rom-com story with a fresh storyline that gives lots of funny moments, perhaps more than romantic at least till the end.
The enjoyable situations make these characters very appealing and lovable despite their flaws, allowing you to accept them and even understand some of their eccentricities.
When the romance parts take the lead the author makes sure that those moments are sweet and heartwarming making up a bit for the lack of them during several chapters.
Something to point out is that there are some parts of the story that cover interesting topics about life, love and happiness and that make you mull over them, which was something I liked and kept me interested in the story, however I have to say that it was a bit too much in some way.
In regards to the love/sex scene I think the author did a nice job creating a nice vibe and connection between them that was also erotic and appealing,
To conclude, I think this is a nice book if you're looking for a funny story with a a sweet romance that makes you laugh a lot, however if you’re looking for an intense romance with drama this may not be the right one for you.
Since I had a nice time reading it I'll give it 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
The enjoyable situations make these characters very appealing and lovable despite their flaws, allowing you to accept them and even understand some of their eccentricities.
When the romance parts take the lead the author makes sure that those moments are sweet and heartwarming making up a bit for the lack of them during several chapters.
Something to point out is that there are some parts of the story that cover interesting topics about life, love and happiness and that make you mull over them, which was something I liked and kept me interested in the story, however I have to say that it was a bit too much in some way.
In regards to the love/sex scene I think the author did a nice job creating a nice vibe and connection between them that was also erotic and appealing,
To conclude, I think this is a nice book if you're looking for a funny story with a a sweet romance that makes you laugh a lot, however if you’re looking for an intense romance with drama this may not be the right one for you.
Since I had a nice time reading it I'll give it 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
November 5, 2015
3.5
Rebecca's Cove is overall a very delightful read. It's far from perfect, but it does the work. It's entertaining, very funny, and very sweet. Most importantly, it's different.
In the very beginning, I found BJ's arrogance and sarcastic nature incredibly exhausting. I also thought the story was really slow at first, but it actually enabled me to understand where BJ is coming from, and the more her vulnerability transpired, the harder I fell for her. She's hard work, that's for sure. She's absolutely insane, clumsy, paranoid and insufferable. And damn charming. She's the kind of woman you hate to love. She's actually a pretty amazing and unforgettable character.
Hobie is a real charmer as well. Incredibly kind and sexy. Flawed, of course, that's why she's hard to resist.
When both women meet, there's an instant spark. A strong attraction mixed with irritation which leads to pretty fun moments.
The romance is a slow slow build, but it's quite satisfying to see how irritation turns into friendship and then love.
I was a bit disappointed with the end, though. I am not a big fan of the whole wiccan and destiny thing. But that's my very down-to-earth cynical self talking. I thought it was a bit much, borderline cheesy and really not that necessary. But I guess it fit the overall tone of the story... so I'm not complaining much!
I recommend it to anyone who wants a light read with attractive characters, funny dialogues and situations, and a fictitious universe you get sucked in.
Rebecca's Cove is overall a very delightful read. It's far from perfect, but it does the work. It's entertaining, very funny, and very sweet. Most importantly, it's different.
In the very beginning, I found BJ's arrogance and sarcastic nature incredibly exhausting. I also thought the story was really slow at first, but it actually enabled me to understand where BJ is coming from, and the more her vulnerability transpired, the harder I fell for her. She's hard work, that's for sure. She's absolutely insane, clumsy, paranoid and insufferable. And damn charming. She's the kind of woman you hate to love. She's actually a pretty amazing and unforgettable character.
Hobie is a real charmer as well. Incredibly kind and sexy. Flawed, of course, that's why she's hard to resist.
When both women meet, there's an instant spark. A strong attraction mixed with irritation which leads to pretty fun moments.
The romance is a slow slow build, but it's quite satisfying to see how irritation turns into friendship and then love.
I was a bit disappointed with the end, though. I am not a big fan of the whole wiccan and destiny thing. But that's my very down-to-earth cynical self talking. I thought it was a bit much, borderline cheesy and really not that necessary. But I guess it fit the overall tone of the story... so I'm not complaining much!
I recommend it to anyone who wants a light read with attractive characters, funny dialogues and situations, and a fictitious universe you get sucked in.
May 9, 2018
This book was good at the beginning. Classic enemies to lovers as a slow burn and decent chemistry. The conversations were funny and the chicken scene alone may be worth reading this book for. Then...it just went down hill really quickly. The almost paranormal twist at the end really wasn't necessary and honestly took away from the story. I found myself struggling to finish a book that I was actually enjoying.
3 stars because the ending ruined it.
3 stars because the ending ruined it.
February 26, 2015
This is the funniest novel I know!! Have read it several times and never seem to tire of it. It should be made into a film, with Lucy and Renee, of course! They're just the right age for the roles now. The story is just hilarious, but it's also a sweet lovestory, there's a bit of magic in the works too!
July 11, 2011
a cute and funny read
October 10, 2012
The funny parts in the beginning rate an extra star, but all in all I was dissapointed in this book.
July 13, 2016
I had a hard time caring if the two main characters got together or not. I struggled through the book until the last 3 chapters; they were good. I did like the little boy character. He was sweet.
July 22, 2022
I love LJ Maas' style, and especially the sarcastic humor within her characters' dialogue. I thought Baylor and Hobie were really dynamic women with great chemistry. However, the whole mystical-legends-of-the-island thing forced the relationship to go much faster than felt natural. Hell, they were barely at the point of admitting - finally - that underneath all their banter and sparring and seeming distaste for one another, they were actually attracted to each other. Then BAM, all of a sudden, some weird supernatural lore is forcing them to get married in a matter of days. Um, I've heard of U-hauling, but maybe you can pump the brakes a little???
And okay, it's possible I'm ruined for all other Maas stories thanks to None So Blind, which is my literal favorite book of all time, and features 15 years' worth of angst, which made this story seem lightning-fast by comparison. But I will still, of course, seek out and read all her other works.
And okay, it's possible I'm ruined for all other Maas stories thanks to None So Blind, which is my literal favorite book of all time, and features 15 years' worth of angst, which made this story seem lightning-fast by comparison. But I will still, of course, seek out and read all her other works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2019
Hilarious and heart-warming
May 29, 2013
I just finished reading this book. I am so happy it was recommended to me because I simply loved it! I've been looking for romantic comedies lately and this one sure fit the bill. It was cute, funny, and the characters were a delight. In most books I really can't get into the side characters, but in this one I did. What an interesting mix. The island of Ana Lia is one I wouldn't mind living on myself, lol. If you like a good lesbian romance with some added comedy, this is a must read!
August 3, 2015
3.75 stars
I adore almost every characters here: they are funny, smart, cute and CRAZY as hell. It is perfectly normal to be not normal because really, who can define in exact terms what normality is. Sure the Ana Lia witch thing is quite weird and out of place but it kinda suits the story.
I adore almost every characters here: they are funny, smart, cute and CRAZY as hell. It is perfectly normal to be not normal because really, who can define in exact terms what normality is. Sure the Ana Lia witch thing is quite weird and out of place but it kinda suits the story.
June 26, 2010
All of LJ's Novels are good! :)
April 1, 2012
If I could give this book ten stars I would! I Absolutely LOVED Rebecca's Cove! It is a hilarious read!
April 30, 2013
Fun read with great dialogue and quirky characters that you can help but love, flaws and all.
December 8, 2019
Couldn't finish this story.
November 12, 2023
Hard to find. The Internet Archive has scans and EPUB of the 2003 print edition:
https://archive.org/details/maas_rebe...
https://archive.org/details/maas_rebe...
September 25, 2012
Made me laugh like crazy and enjoyed it very much.
April 28, 2017
I am trying really hard to love this book because I am loving the Author but I just can't. I guess after reading 3 of her books I have increasing expectations or I am getting a hang of her way of writing which in this book showed a number of similarities. For instance the Author really likes tall and often intimidating and cavalier characters. And the last book I read by her "Prairie Fire" used the same quote or concept "Circle of life" as this one.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews