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Camden Cove #1
The Inn by the Cove
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here
Previously published as Inn With You.
The handsome investor wants to sell her family’s seacoast inn. So, why can’t she just hate him?
Zoe has dedicated her life to working at the family inn, where she lives with her son, but the business has fallen on hard times. She has ideas about how to turn things around; but, her father owns the place and he’s stuck in his ways.
To make matters worse, Zoe learns that her father has a silent partner, Ethan’s father. Ethan has a trust fund, but Zoe’s not impressed when he comes to town with his own ideas about what’s best for the inn, as well as an ultimatum from his father. If the inn doesn’t start turning a profit, he’ll force a sale.
Tensions rise as the two struggle to agree on anything. But, neither can deny that they’re starting to fall for one another. As Zoe and Ethan struggle with their feelings, and their plans to save the inn, Ethan realizes he can’t carry out his father’s wishes without risking whatever it is he has with Zoe.
Will Ethan help Zoe save the inn or will family obligations get in the way? Enjoy this first in series, enemies to lovers romance!
Previously published as Inn With You.
The handsome investor wants to sell her family’s seacoast inn. So, why can’t she just hate him?
Zoe has dedicated her life to working at the family inn, where she lives with her son, but the business has fallen on hard times. She has ideas about how to turn things around; but, her father owns the place and he’s stuck in his ways.
To make matters worse, Zoe learns that her father has a silent partner, Ethan’s father. Ethan has a trust fund, but Zoe’s not impressed when he comes to town with his own ideas about what’s best for the inn, as well as an ultimatum from his father. If the inn doesn’t start turning a profit, he’ll force a sale.
Tensions rise as the two struggle to agree on anything. But, neither can deny that they’re starting to fall for one another. As Zoe and Ethan struggle with their feelings, and their plans to save the inn, Ethan realizes he can’t carry out his father’s wishes without risking whatever it is he has with Zoe.
Will Ethan help Zoe save the inn or will family obligations get in the way? Enjoy this first in series, enemies to lovers romance!
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2020
1194 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Joy
40 books113 followersEllen lives in a small town in New England, between the Atlantic Ocean and the White Mountains. She lives with her husband, two sons, and one very spoiled puppy princess.
Ellen writes in the early morning hours before her family wakes up. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, gardening with her puppy and chickens, or headed to the beach. She loves summer and flip-flops, running on a dirt country road, and a sweet love song.
All of her stories are clean romances where families are close, neighbors are nosy, and the couples are destined for each other.
Join Ellen Joy's newsletter to connect with Ellen and receive updates!
http://www.ellenjoyauthor.com
Ellen writes in the early morning hours before her family wakes up. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, gardening with her puppy and chickens, or headed to the beach. She loves summer and flip-flops, running on a dirt country road, and a sweet love song.
All of her stories are clean romances where families are close, neighbors are nosy, and the couples are destined for each other.
Join Ellen Joy's newsletter to connect with Ellen and receive updates!
http://www.ellenjoyauthor.com
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
April 24, 2021
Okay, well, that was... something. 😐 Not entirely enthused about continuing on. I bought this for .99c and while it wasn't bad exactly, it...dragged. And I had *opinions* about Ethan's dad. It felt like this whole book was trying to hard to be a hallmark movie. And most hallmark movies? Meh.
Too wishy washy, characters not doing what I want them to (Ethan I get he's your arrogant a**hole of a father but COME ON ALREADY!), Zoe was a moron, Max was cute, the dog annoyed the sh*t out of me, and soccer remains to be utterly boring for me.
So yeah.
Deleting series, wasted .99c and thoroughly annoyed with the series.
Recommend: only if you're a hallmark nut.
Rating: 3 ⭐
Too wishy washy, characters not doing what I want them to (Ethan I get he's your arrogant a**hole of a father but COME ON ALREADY!), Zoe was a moron, Max was cute, the dog annoyed the sh*t out of me, and soccer remains to be utterly boring for me.
So yeah.
Deleting series, wasted .99c and thoroughly annoyed with the series.
Recommend: only if you're a hallmark nut.
Rating: 3 ⭐
June 21, 2023
I started and stopped two different books after finishing my last one. One was too slapstick funny and sarcastic. The other left me thinking about everything but the story I was reading, while I was trying to read it. Then I picked up this book, through an interesting set of circumstances, and fell in love with Zoe, Ethan, and all of Camden Cove. It is the perfect balance of romantic and authentic.
This first volume of the Camden Cove series sets the stage for many more heartwarming and emotional journeys in this idyllic setting. A good story has elements of setting, character, and plot that hold the reader’s attention and carries them along on a wave that helps one understand elements of the human condition. This goes a step further. Alongside Zoe, Ethan, Max, Henry, Amelia, John, and Zeke, I experienced what these characters were truly feeling through Ms. Joy’s ability to capture that elusive emotional element that we so often feel but can’t quite put into words.
The impossible choices that straddle the should haves and could haves place us as the reader in the middle of a narrative that helps to navigate those quandaries in real life because we witness how these characters deal with all aspects of their choices inside the covers of a book. And a lot of stories do that same thing, but this one does it in a way where we not only see the rose but also the thorns that accompany it as well.
The complex relationships and secrets that span generations provide a compelling context for how this story evolves and finishes, even if it feels as though this author has made it clear in the best way possible that every ending is only but an opportunity for a new beginning with endless possibilities.
This first volume of the Camden Cove series sets the stage for many more heartwarming and emotional journeys in this idyllic setting. A good story has elements of setting, character, and plot that hold the reader’s attention and carries them along on a wave that helps one understand elements of the human condition. This goes a step further. Alongside Zoe, Ethan, Max, Henry, Amelia, John, and Zeke, I experienced what these characters were truly feeling through Ms. Joy’s ability to capture that elusive emotional element that we so often feel but can’t quite put into words.
The impossible choices that straddle the should haves and could haves place us as the reader in the middle of a narrative that helps to navigate those quandaries in real life because we witness how these characters deal with all aspects of their choices inside the covers of a book. And a lot of stories do that same thing, but this one does it in a way where we not only see the rose but also the thorns that accompany it as well.
The complex relationships and secrets that span generations provide a compelling context for how this story evolves and finishes, even if it feels as though this author has made it clear in the best way possible that every ending is only but an opportunity for a new beginning with endless possibilities.
August 2, 2020
I am new to both the series and this author, so I was interesting in reading this book.
This is a clean contemporary romance that can be read as a stand alone. Though I might have benefited from reading the previous books.
The story centers around Ethan Wentworth , whose family owns hotels and inns, and Zoe, a young woman whose dream is to run an inn in Camden Cove owned by her family. Or do they?
Ethan has good memories of spending time in the inn his mother loved. Much to his dismay, his father sends him there with the intend of selling the inn. It appears his father owns 51% of the inn. Imagine Zoe’s hurt and surprise when she finds out the secret her dad has kept from her.
Though at first Zoe and Ethan seemed to be in opposite sides, as time goes on , they realize their goal is the same, save the inn. But what happens when an attraction develops? Will the inn be saved or will it just be a thing of the past?
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This is a clean contemporary romance that can be read as a stand alone. Though I might have benefited from reading the previous books.
The story centers around Ethan Wentworth , whose family owns hotels and inns, and Zoe, a young woman whose dream is to run an inn in Camden Cove owned by her family. Or do they?
Ethan has good memories of spending time in the inn his mother loved. Much to his dismay, his father sends him there with the intend of selling the inn. It appears his father owns 51% of the inn. Imagine Zoe’s hurt and surprise when she finds out the secret her dad has kept from her.
Though at first Zoe and Ethan seemed to be in opposite sides, as time goes on , they realize their goal is the same, save the inn. But what happens when an attraction develops? Will the inn be saved or will it just be a thing of the past?
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
July 25, 2020
Inn with You is another wonderful book by Ellen Joy from the Camden Cove series. No two people can have such a different purpose for the same Inn as Ethan and Zoe. Ethan is forced by his Father a no-nonsense businessman to sell the Inn of Zoe her Father. Zoe who helps her father run the inn wants to keep the inn as it is. Ethan and Zoe don't understand each other at first and do not like each other until Zoe finds out that Ethan his family owns 51 percent of the shares from the inn. Zoe her father never told that to Zoe and she's verry hurt by that. Ethan how came whit his mother to the inn as a little boy start to fall in love again with the inn and become more and more attracted to Zoe. The inn with you is a verry nice clean romance with Keep your interest until the end.
August 3, 2020
Inn With You is part of the Camden Cove Series by Ellen Joy. A small Maine town with a close knit group of people and family. An inn that is stuck well in the last is the backdrop of this story.
I love how relatable the characters are and their real life struggles.
A feel good love story that is a joy to read and a must for your library.
*I was given a copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
I love how relatable the characters are and their real life struggles.
A feel good love story that is a joy to read and a must for your library.
*I was given a copy and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
September 12, 2020
What a story! This is a sweet, realistic, clean romance which follows the life of a family that run an inn, and the rich spoiled owners that are looking to sell it off. It's a great page-turner and one that I struggled to put down. Ellen has a gift for storytelling and I am looking forward to discovering more of her books.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free review copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 6, 2020
This book hooked me from the get go I just couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with these characters. Oh mmmm geee. What a story, just perfect. I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2021
Ellen Joy’s writing is a Joy to read
As usual Ellen Joy brings the location to life. I can’t wait to read more of the Camden Cove series. I enjoyed the feistiness of the characters as well as the family’s love, anger, pain and fear. Great job Ellen.
As usual Ellen Joy brings the location to life. I can’t wait to read more of the Camden Cove series. I enjoyed the feistiness of the characters as well as the family’s love, anger, pain and fear. Great job Ellen.
March 14, 2024
I'm officially a superfan of this author. Even her earlier works are brilliantly written. Get ready to be whisked away on a mesmerizing journey of love, loss, and redemption in Ellen Joy's enchanting novel, "The Inn by the Cove". From the first page, you'll find yourself captivated by its vivid imagery, compelling characters, and heartfelt emotions. The story is set in a quaint seaside town and at the heart of it all is the charming inn.
Ellen Joy's storytelling prowess shines through in her masterful characterization. Each character is brought to life with depth and authenticity, making it impossible not to feel a deep connection to their joys and sorrows. Every character adds layers of intrigue and emotion to the narrative. What truly sets "The Inn by the Cove" apart is its exploration of themes such as forgiveness, healing, and the power of second chances. Through her eloquent prose, Joy delves into the complexities of human relationships, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and renewal. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed, bonds are forged, and love blossoms in unexpected places. This book is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. With its irresistible blend of romance, mystery, and heartwarming moments, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they've turned the final page.
Ms. Joy has given her readers a captivating tale that will sweep you off your feet and leave you yearning for more. Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or simply a good old-fashioned story of redemption, this book is a must-read. So, grab a cozy blanket, brew a cup of tea, and lose yourself in the magic of "The Inn by the Cove." You won't be disappointed.
Happy Reading...enjoy!
Ellen Joy's storytelling prowess shines through in her masterful characterization. Each character is brought to life with depth and authenticity, making it impossible not to feel a deep connection to their joys and sorrows. Every character adds layers of intrigue and emotion to the narrative. What truly sets "The Inn by the Cove" apart is its exploration of themes such as forgiveness, healing, and the power of second chances. Through her eloquent prose, Joy delves into the complexities of human relationships, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and renewal. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed, bonds are forged, and love blossoms in unexpected places. This book is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. With its irresistible blend of romance, mystery, and heartwarming moments, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they've turned the final page.
Ms. Joy has given her readers a captivating tale that will sweep you off your feet and leave you yearning for more. Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or simply a good old-fashioned story of redemption, this book is a must-read. So, grab a cozy blanket, brew a cup of tea, and lose yourself in the magic of "The Inn by the Cove." You won't be disappointed.
Happy Reading...enjoy!
August 12, 2023
A very good story about a family who co-owns an inn in Camden Cove and the corporate businessman who wants to sell because it isn't earning money. Zoe is the daughter who is supposed to be managing the inn but her father hasn't retired, makes decisions without consulting her and keeps things from her. Ethan Wentworth is the son of said businessman and he has a personal, sentimental attachment to the inn because it's where he spent his last summer with his mother before she died. When his father proposes to the board to sell it, Ethan asks for 6 months to turn it around. When Zoe discovers he's co-owner and there's a big chance they may lose the inn, she loses it. And so begins the enemies to lovers love story between Zoe and Ethan.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed very much.
This was a sweet story that I enjoyed very much.
April 19, 2021
From Old to New
Zoe & her father & uncles run an inn in Maine. Zoe had grown up believing that her dad owned the inn. The Wentworth family business actually owned the inn. My John Wentworth wants to sell the inn. Ethan Wentworth makes a trip to the inn, requesting his father, John, give him 6 months to turn the inn around. John is very controlling & is not happy where the direction of this inn is going. There are a few other twists & turns to keep you wondering what will happen next!
Zoe & her father & uncles run an inn in Maine. Zoe had grown up believing that her dad owned the inn. The Wentworth family business actually owned the inn. My John Wentworth wants to sell the inn. Ethan Wentworth makes a trip to the inn, requesting his father, John, give him 6 months to turn the inn around. John is very controlling & is not happy where the direction of this inn is going. There are a few other twists & turns to keep you wondering what will happen next!
October 9, 2022
A lovely romance set in Camden Cove, the first of a series set in the small town on the coast.
This book is about thes Inn and its struggle to survive, especially after Zoe, the daughter of the Owner, finds put there's another investor, who wants to pull their investment.
It's a nice story, easy to read and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I've never read books by this author before but I'll be looking for more after the rest of this series.
This book is about thes Inn and its struggle to survive, especially after Zoe, the daughter of the Owner, finds put there's another investor, who wants to pull their investment.
It's a nice story, easy to read and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I've never read books by this author before but I'll be looking for more after the rest of this series.
September 29, 2024
Cute little cozy
I found this story quaint, cozy and comforting. It was exactly what I was expecting (and wanting) it to be. Would definitely be interested in a follow up to Zoe and Ethan’s story, but will not sign up for a newsletter to do so. As the first in a series, it wrapped up well enough. May consider reading another in the series, considering it focuses on different characters from this same story. I would recommend this book. It gave me all the feels.
I found this story quaint, cozy and comforting. It was exactly what I was expecting (and wanting) it to be. Would definitely be interested in a follow up to Zoe and Ethan’s story, but will not sign up for a newsletter to do so. As the first in a series, it wrapped up well enough. May consider reading another in the series, considering it focuses on different characters from this same story. I would recommend this book. It gave me all the feels.
April 5, 2021
Zoe and Ethan
Love can conquer all, even if there are a lot of bumps along the way. Plus the ex boyfriend, a controlling father with control of the money, A puppy, A girlfriend that wants to be more, an old rundown inn and a little boy. Plus insecure issues on both sides. Will there be a happy ending?
Love can conquer all, even if there are a lot of bumps along the way. Plus the ex boyfriend, a controlling father with control of the money, A puppy, A girlfriend that wants to be more, an old rundown inn and a little boy. Plus insecure issues on both sides. Will there be a happy ending?
September 9, 2022
Zoe
New to this author a great small town read but it was all about the Inn and the bakery never saw the rest of the town.It's a slow burn romance. With old interest hanging around, I agreed hated Christopher too it was clear he only wanted her so he was not alone.I was worried they would start to old loved and not get together.
New to this author a great small town read but it was all about the Inn and the bakery never saw the rest of the town.It's a slow burn romance. With old interest hanging around, I agreed hated Christopher too it was clear he only wanted her so he was not alone.I was worried they would start to old loved and not get together.
October 13, 2022
Top praise
This book was amazing and had me hooked right away. The characters were strong supportive and very likable. I can't wait to read the next book. Ellen Joy knows what her reads like and she delivers the best stories. So get your book get cozy and take a trip to the Inn by the cover.
This book was amazing and had me hooked right away. The characters were strong supportive and very likable. I can't wait to read the next book. Ellen Joy knows what her reads like and she delivers the best stories. So get your book get cozy and take a trip to the Inn by the cover.
October 14, 2022
Beautiful Story
This book is the most beautiful story I have read in a long time. This book covers so many emotions, from family loyalty & hard decisions to make. This book makes you laugh, cry & want to hug your family close & be so Thankful for them & the life you have built. Exactly like Zoe, Max & Ethan.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves cozy mysteries!
This book is the most beautiful story I have read in a long time. This book covers so many emotions, from family loyalty & hard decisions to make. This book makes you laugh, cry & want to hug your family close & be so Thankful for them & the life you have built. Exactly like Zoe, Max & Ethan.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves cozy mysteries!
February 23, 2021
A cove to be remembered
This was a wonderful story abut a young boy visiting a inn on a cove. He went back to visit and it was not up to code. He invested in it and feel in love with the inn keeper. A great love story.
This was a wonderful story abut a young boy visiting a inn on a cove. He went back to visit and it was not up to code. He invested in it and feel in love with the inn keeper. A great love story.
April 8, 2021
Liked it
Liked the storyline and most of the characters. Didn't like John much. Its ok to have a grumpy old man. I'm just not sure how long a Board would continue to back and respect someone who was so far behind the times. Then again...
Liked the storyline and most of the characters. Didn't like John much. Its ok to have a grumpy old man. I'm just not sure how long a Board would continue to back and respect someone who was so far behind the times. Then again...
April 10, 2021
The Inn
After reading about the inn, I want to find a place just like it to stay. I hope I learned something about being honest because hiding things for any reason can have bad results
After reading about the inn, I want to find a place just like it to stay. I hope I learned something about being honest because hiding things for any reason can have bad results
April 12, 2021
The Inn by the Cove
Zoe is a single mother, working at her father, Henry's inn. Max, her son, is the love of her life. Henry never told Zoe that he had a partner in the inn, so when Ethan shows up, she loses her cool. But things start to change as romance starts to build.
Zoe is a single mother, working at her father, Henry's inn. Max, her son, is the love of her life. Henry never told Zoe that he had a partner in the inn, so when Ethan shows up, she loses her cool. But things start to change as romance starts to build.
April 20, 2021
Great story!
Wow, loved the ending. It took a little longer than normal for me to get pulled into the story. But I am very glad I stayed with it, it developed into a that great story.
Wow, loved the ending. It took a little longer than normal for me to get pulled into the story. But I am very glad I stayed with it, it developed into a that great story.
July 9, 2021
Wonderful
I love clean inspirational books. This author has met all my expectations of a award winning author. A sweet romance which left me with a smile on my face as I read he last page
I love clean inspirational books. This author has met all my expectations of a award winning author. A sweet romance which left me with a smile on my face as I read he last page
January 9, 2022
Decent
This was a bit trite. The protagonist doesn't always act like the adult she claims to be. She just gets a little annoying. If has a lovely HEA. It was overall a decent read, but I'm not running out to buy the whole series.
This was a bit trite. The protagonist doesn't always act like the adult she claims to be. She just gets a little annoying. If has a lovely HEA. It was overall a decent read, but I'm not running out to buy the whole series.
January 6, 2023
Can 6 months turn a failing Inn around financially? Ethan thinks so. Zoe loves the Inn her family has been running but her Dad has been keeping secrets from her. Zoe has a sweet son, Max. You will laugh, cry and keep turning the pages to see how it will end.
August 13, 2023
A Bit too slow for me
The setting sounded pretty. Interesting storyline. The father..... Just wow. The pacing was slow and I feel the relationship lacked interaction, dialogue and chemistry. It was an ok read.
The setting sounded pretty. Interesting storyline. The father..... Just wow. The pacing was slow and I feel the relationship lacked interaction, dialogue and chemistry. It was an ok read.
November 9, 2023
Zoe and Ethan
Zoe and her father run the the Inn in Camden Cove. Ethan's Mother invested in the Inn a long time ago, so it is controlled by Ethan's Dads corporation. It hasn't made much profit lately and needs updating.
Zoe and her father run the the Inn in Camden Cove. Ethan's Mother invested in the Inn a long time ago, so it is controlled by Ethan's Dads corporation. It hasn't made much profit lately and needs updating.
April 7, 2024
Heartwarming
This story is a reminder that one's childhood always leaves an impression in our hearts. This is a sweet story, which also reminds us that family is important, so is love...
This story is a reminder that one's childhood always leaves an impression in our hearts. This is a sweet story, which also reminds us that family is important, so is love...
May 4, 2025
Loved the characters and setting
Great read ...realistic concept and gritty and lovely story line and characters -really enjoyed it and look forward to novella and then rest in series
Great read ...realistic concept and gritty and lovely story line and characters -really enjoyed it and look forward to novella and then rest in series
July 2, 2025
I listened to the audiobook, which was a AI narration. It was good, but prefer a real narrator. The story on the other hand was amazing. The author lets you into the family dynamics and doesn't leave you asking why.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews