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Willow Beach Inn #3
Just South of Sunrise
It’s never too late in life to give love a second chance.
When fate (and a stubborn niece) force fifty-something divorcee Liza Hall to take on a new catering client, the last face she expects to see is Benjamin Boyd.
As in, the very handsome, very familiar Ben who broke her heart many years ago.
That’s bad news indeed. Her quiet life in Willow Beach is just what she’s been searching for. Why give that up and invite the memory of heartbreak back in?
But it’s tough for Liza to resist pressure from her young niece, the pleas of a desperate client, and the man who has always known how to tug on her heartstrings.
And soon, Liza finds herself getting drawn closer and closer to a man she swore off for good.
Can a second shot at love leave her better off than the first?
Fate, family, and food all weave together in this heartwarming second chance romance women’s fiction novel.
Come back to your favorite seaside town, grab a cup of coffee with the Baldwin family at the Willow Beach Inn, and get ready to fall heads over heels for the later-in-life love story you’ve been craving.
When fate (and a stubborn niece) force fifty-something divorcee Liza Hall to take on a new catering client, the last face she expects to see is Benjamin Boyd.
As in, the very handsome, very familiar Ben who broke her heart many years ago.
That’s bad news indeed. Her quiet life in Willow Beach is just what she’s been searching for. Why give that up and invite the memory of heartbreak back in?
But it’s tough for Liza to resist pressure from her young niece, the pleas of a desperate client, and the man who has always known how to tug on her heartstrings.
And soon, Liza finds herself getting drawn closer and closer to a man she swore off for good.
Can a second shot at love leave her better off than the first?
Fate, family, and food all weave together in this heartwarming second chance romance women’s fiction novel.
Come back to your favorite seaside town, grab a cup of coffee with the Baldwin family at the Willow Beach Inn, and get ready to fall heads over heels for the later-in-life love story you’ve been craving.
- GenresContemporary
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2020
290 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Grace Palmer
26 books102 followersGrace Palmer grew up in the Northeast but moved down south to Charleston, South Carolina to escape the brutal winters. Her and her husband run an Airbnb on the beach and have 2 sassy cats, Mickey and Mousy, who boss around a golden retriever named Taco.
She writes feel good romances that are clean, wholesome, and inspirational. Cozy up by your fireplace or lounge out on the beach and settle in because her books are un-putdownable.
Follow her on Amazon and at fb.com/authorgracepalmer
She writes feel good romances that are clean, wholesome, and inspirational. Cozy up by your fireplace or lounge out on the beach and settle in because her books are un-putdownable.
Follow her on Amazon and at fb.com/authorgracepalmer
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 30, 2020
Book three in the series brings Liza and Ben's story. It's a second chance romance with strong characters and an interesting story line. The author pulled me in right from the start and had me glued to the pages right to the end. She paints her scenes in vivid detail and moves the story fluidly. I enjoyed watching them come together and reading their story. Well done.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 30, 2020
Liza Hall stared into the contents of the storage unit. She should get rid of it all, but she couldn’t seem to do that. She had been divorced for three years now and still hadn’t moved on. Even when she and Cliff had married, she hadn’t loved him. But she needed a partner and it made sense to her. Marriage was about convenience and security. Now Angela waited for her, and she would be going to Maine to house-sit for one of the 6 months the owners would be gone, and to cater a wedding while there. Liza’s apartment was rented out, her things in storage, and her bags packed. But she didn’t want to go. Liza had been in a holding pattern for years, content to let life just settle around her without looking toward the future. She and Cliff had not been happy, but it was what she was used to and she wanted it back like it was.
Yet Liza was meeting people, Stella the artist on the beach painting a moonscape at night, Vivienne who made the best lattes and almond croissants, Georgia who owned the inn and invited her to their book club meeting, Katie who baked the best cupcakes in town. Now she is on the way to a restaurant to meet the bride and groom to plan their catering menu. Stacy, the bride, greets her. When she looks up into the eyes of the groom, she is not prepared to see her first love from 30 years ago, Benjamin Boyd. And all of those feelings from long ago came rushing back. She doesn’t think she can do this. She still doesn’t even know why he left her with no explanation!
Finding out that Ben was actually the bride’s brother – after both of them gagged at her misunderstanding – things still remained tense. Ben asked if she would go on one date with him and, if she hated it, he would not bother her again. So she agreed, and it was the most perfect of dates, an evening picnic up in the hills overlooking the ocean, with food that each of her new friends recommended. And since she didn’t hate it, he asked if she would make him pancakes for breakfast the next morning while they talked about having another date. Ben brought out a side of Liza she’d left behind long ago, and she found herself laughing and enjoying life. He helped her see the beauty in ordinary things. He really hadn’t changed in that way over the years. Were they falling in love again? Would she risk her heart if he ever left her again?
I love how the author paints a picture in the reader’s mind with the perfect words to describe a scene that comes to life. I had to check my toes for sand after she described the ocean waves and the beach visible from the porch. Even the sound felt real and present! Sight, sound, color all blended together to keep the reader comfortably in the story. And her character descriptions made them feel like close friends the reader would feel good knowing. The writing was amazing and the emotions were real. This book was pure magic. Grab your copy and fall in love.
Yet Liza was meeting people, Stella the artist on the beach painting a moonscape at night, Vivienne who made the best lattes and almond croissants, Georgia who owned the inn and invited her to their book club meeting, Katie who baked the best cupcakes in town. Now she is on the way to a restaurant to meet the bride and groom to plan their catering menu. Stacy, the bride, greets her. When she looks up into the eyes of the groom, she is not prepared to see her first love from 30 years ago, Benjamin Boyd. And all of those feelings from long ago came rushing back. She doesn’t think she can do this. She still doesn’t even know why he left her with no explanation!
Finding out that Ben was actually the bride’s brother – after both of them gagged at her misunderstanding – things still remained tense. Ben asked if she would go on one date with him and, if she hated it, he would not bother her again. So she agreed, and it was the most perfect of dates, an evening picnic up in the hills overlooking the ocean, with food that each of her new friends recommended. And since she didn’t hate it, he asked if she would make him pancakes for breakfast the next morning while they talked about having another date. Ben brought out a side of Liza she’d left behind long ago, and she found herself laughing and enjoying life. He helped her see the beauty in ordinary things. He really hadn’t changed in that way over the years. Were they falling in love again? Would she risk her heart if he ever left her again?
I love how the author paints a picture in the reader’s mind with the perfect words to describe a scene that comes to life. I had to check my toes for sand after she described the ocean waves and the beach visible from the porch. Even the sound felt real and present! Sight, sound, color all blended together to keep the reader comfortably in the story. And her character descriptions made them feel like close friends the reader would feel good knowing. The writing was amazing and the emotions were real. This book was pure magic. Grab your copy and fall in love.
October 29, 2020
I received an ARC of this book & I am submitting my honest review.
I think this is the best book yet from Ms. Palmer! I loved the story of Liza Hall with her second chance of love & life after a divorce from her husband of 20 years. Liza runs a catering service with her niece in Boston. Upon her niece's suggestion she takes a much needed vacation to Willow Beach & house sits a small quaint beach cottage for one month with the agreement that she will cater a wedding that is planned during that time. Little does she know that the brother of the bride is her former first love who abruptly left her 30 years ago, Benjamin Boyd. Liza realizes the old feelings for him are very much still there. But what exactly are his feelings, does he still have feelings for her? What is going on in his mind? Why did he leave her so suddenly just when Liza thought their relationship was going so well? She is reluctant to talk to him or to spend any time with him, for fear of being hurt once again. The more she fights her feelings, the more they resurface. The memories keep coming back. It doesn't help that Ben plays a song on a jukebox that was so important to them from 30 yrs ago. Oh those memories how they mess with your mind!! She can't help but wonder does Ben still have the same feelings for her or is he just playing a game where she ends up being destroyed all over again?
During the planning of the upcoming wedding, Liza is forced to interact & meet with Ben on several occasions over several different issues regarding the preparation for the big event. The community of Willow Beach are all there to welcome Liza & bring familiarity to continue the saga of the Willow Beach Inn books. Liza feels right at home & is enjoying her stay in Willow Beach & has made several new friends. Could she possibly decide to move to Willow Beach & move her catering business there as well? What about Ben? Does she dare allow herself to dream of a future or is she setting herself up for another heartache?
This story is a absolute joy to read, you will love their heartwarming love story. You will be cheering them on & will be anxious to read how Liza & Ben's second chance at love develops & blossoms into a new exciting future for them.
I think this is the best book yet from Ms. Palmer! I loved the story of Liza Hall with her second chance of love & life after a divorce from her husband of 20 years. Liza runs a catering service with her niece in Boston. Upon her niece's suggestion she takes a much needed vacation to Willow Beach & house sits a small quaint beach cottage for one month with the agreement that she will cater a wedding that is planned during that time. Little does she know that the brother of the bride is her former first love who abruptly left her 30 years ago, Benjamin Boyd. Liza realizes the old feelings for him are very much still there. But what exactly are his feelings, does he still have feelings for her? What is going on in his mind? Why did he leave her so suddenly just when Liza thought their relationship was going so well? She is reluctant to talk to him or to spend any time with him, for fear of being hurt once again. The more she fights her feelings, the more they resurface. The memories keep coming back. It doesn't help that Ben plays a song on a jukebox that was so important to them from 30 yrs ago. Oh those memories how they mess with your mind!! She can't help but wonder does Ben still have the same feelings for her or is he just playing a game where she ends up being destroyed all over again?
During the planning of the upcoming wedding, Liza is forced to interact & meet with Ben on several occasions over several different issues regarding the preparation for the big event. The community of Willow Beach are all there to welcome Liza & bring familiarity to continue the saga of the Willow Beach Inn books. Liza feels right at home & is enjoying her stay in Willow Beach & has made several new friends. Could she possibly decide to move to Willow Beach & move her catering business there as well? What about Ben? Does she dare allow herself to dream of a future or is she setting herself up for another heartache?
This story is a absolute joy to read, you will love their heartwarming love story. You will be cheering them on & will be anxious to read how Liza & Ben's second chance at love develops & blossoms into a new exciting future for them.
October 24, 2020
I received an ARC from Grace Palmer for an honest review. Liza Hall has a catering business and her niece decides she needs a vacation and signed her up to house sit in Willow Beach for a month. The people who live here have such a community spirit and is so welcoming. While she is there her niece has also said she would cater a wedding, knowing her aunt wouldn't take a vacation so she turned it into a working vacation.
When she arrived she met the bride to be and her ex-boyfriend, Ben who left her many years ago. At first, she thought he was the groom but soon learned he was her brother. They are thrown together a lot planning the wedding, taste testing, and find their feelings hadn't changed and were falling in love all over again. But both were fighting their feelings.
Welcome to Willow Beach where the people love their town and once you come, you become part of the town, and part of the Willow Beach family. Like most families, they interfere, bringing the two together whenever possible, and the love they all have for one another just makes you feel like you are one of them. But what happens when Liza discovers that not all is what it seemed? Not to worry, the Willow Beach family will show you. Grab a coffee or some wine, to go along with all the delicious food that you will be having because the story will make you feel like you are right there with them.
When she arrived she met the bride to be and her ex-boyfriend, Ben who left her many years ago. At first, she thought he was the groom but soon learned he was her brother. They are thrown together a lot planning the wedding, taste testing, and find their feelings hadn't changed and were falling in love all over again. But both were fighting their feelings.
Welcome to Willow Beach where the people love their town and once you come, you become part of the town, and part of the Willow Beach family. Like most families, they interfere, bringing the two together whenever possible, and the love they all have for one another just makes you feel like you are one of them. But what happens when Liza discovers that not all is what it seemed? Not to worry, the Willow Beach family will show you. Grab a coffee or some wine, to go along with all the delicious food that you will be having because the story will make you feel like you are right there with them.
November 23, 2020
Second Chance at Love in Willow Beach
I've read the previous books in this series as well as this author's previous series. I absolutely adored all because of her writing style. It is descriptive without being too flowery; she puts you right in the scene with believable, relatable characters. She writes with an emotional honesty that makes the feelings come alive, too. I love how she often writes stories about an older couple, as happens in this particular novel. Not only are the hero and heroine on the far side of middle-aged, but they have a past together as well. There are certainly some misunderstandings—especially at the meet-cute!—and some twists and turns along the way, but this author's smooth writing style makes it a pleasure to come along for the ride. I loved, too, seeing characters from the previous books. I absolutely love Georgia's character; she manages to insinuate herself everywhere! Other fantastic secondary characters make this book feel like the literary equivalent of coming home again. I can hardly wait for the next installment!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I've read the previous books in this series as well as this author's previous series. I absolutely adored all because of her writing style. It is descriptive without being too flowery; she puts you right in the scene with believable, relatable characters. She writes with an emotional honesty that makes the feelings come alive, too. I love how she often writes stories about an older couple, as happens in this particular novel. Not only are the hero and heroine on the far side of middle-aged, but they have a past together as well. There are certainly some misunderstandings—especially at the meet-cute!—and some twists and turns along the way, but this author's smooth writing style makes it a pleasure to come along for the ride. I loved, too, seeing characters from the previous books. I absolutely love Georgia's character; she manages to insinuate herself everywhere! Other fantastic secondary characters make this book feel like the literary equivalent of coming home again. I can hardly wait for the next installment!
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
October 26, 2020
This is book three in A Willow Beach Inn series and it is Liza and Ben's story. Liza is now divorced and she is at a crossroads in her life and the only thing that was really good was her own catering company that was doing so well that now her niece Angela was going to become a co-owner in the business and now Liza was going to Willow Beach Maine to cater a wedding and do some house sitting while she was there but will everything to according to plan. Liza and Ben had history but it ended in heartbreak but now many years later in Willow Beach they meet again. Will Liza and Ben get a second chance of have too many years gone by. Wow I love this book and series so much and it has a great storyline and characters that have you turning the pages to see what would happen next. Grace Palmer is a brilliant author and writer and I definitely recommend you read this book, series and other books by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2020
Another fine novel from Grace Palmer, bringing her characters from her previous Willow Beach books, Stella and Sam, Georgia, and her family into this story. It is like a family reunion; they take Liza, a divorcee who is on a much-needed vacation and is trying to make peace with her 20-year failed marriage with Cliff whom she was never truly loved. It is fate that brings Liza and her one true love, Ben, into the story at Willow Beach. After a chance encounter brings Liza and Ben together, Liza was heartbroken when 30 years prior Ben broke up with her with no explanation. Liza rejects Ben and wants nothing to do with him. Liza's fear of being hurt again and refusal to let Ben into her life take over her every thought. With a few twists and turns, fate is the driving force of this story. As I started reading this story, I again felt like I was one of her new friends, cheering on Liza and Ben in hopes that they live happily ever after. I am looking forward to the next book in this series; keep them coming Grace!
November 5, 2020
This is the third book in Ms. Palmer's wonderful Willow Beach Inn series. The story draws you in from the first page and does not let go until you are done. The book has a strong storyline and wonderful characters with such personality and depth that give them an authentic quality. You can't help but fall in love with them. This is the story of Liza and Ben and their second chance at romance. They were in love years ago, but Ben abruptly left her and they haven't spoken since. When they finally meet again, Liza is afraid to talk with him and open up for fear of being hurt again. This is a truly heartwarming story and it's beautiful to see how Ben and Liza mend fences and allow their relationship to grow. Another brilliant addition to a wonderful series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2020
Having read all if Grace Palmer's wonderful beach side tales I can tell she is getting stronger in her storytelling and putting more confidence in her heroines. Truly a feminist tale, Liza knows she is better off being single than with someone who doesn't love and respect her...right? But enter Benjamin, who needs to hire the caterer Liza and she can't pass up the money even if he has broken her heart before. Then enter the side drama of family that is present in all of Grace Palmer's novels and you have a wonderful stand a lone novel where only Liza knows what is best for her. It is always wonderful to read a novel where the woman can make her own decisions without the influence of a man or needing the man , thus she can be single...or coupled, by choice.
November 2, 2020
Having read all if Grace Palmer's wonderful beach side tales I can tell she is getting stronger in her storytelling and putting more confidence in her heroines. Truly a feminist tale, Liza knows she is better off being single than with someone who doesn't love and respect her...right? But enter Benjamin, who needs to hire the caterer Liza and she can't pass up the money even if he has broken her heart before. Then enter the side drama of family that is present in all of Grace Palmer's novels and you have a wonderful stand a lone novel where only Liza knows what is best for her. It is always wonderful to read a novel where the woman can make her own decisions without the influence of a man or needing the man , thus she can be single...or coupled, by choice.
October 31, 2020
I liked the title of the book and decided to check out the book. The author wrote a very telling story about a woman who found herself divorced, childless, and lonely. Her ex was a man who was selfish and managed to have their marriage their way, until he wanted out. Knowing she had to leave the home for money reasons and relocate was stressful. But, through all this, the childless life was her real regret. Must read this well written story to enjoy the characters and the plot. I recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2020
A beautiful story of second chances in love after being heartbroken the first time and also after being heartbroken after a long marriage that turns out in a divorce. Every divorcee knows how it´s difficult to adapt to a new single status and how to approach family, friends and acquaintances. Willow Beach is a community that helps people to bring themselves together and rebuild their lives. As always a most enjoyable reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2020
Liza had no idea when she came for a visit to Willow Beach that her life was going to completely change for the better. Within days she meets some wonderful women, that could be friends for life, she meets up with her boyfriend from thirty years ago and discovers maybe there is still some feelings there and that starting a new business would be so satisfying. This sweet romance and the interesting experiences that Liza and her friends have is fun and enjoyable.
November 1, 2020
I've read several books written by Grace Palmer; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2020
Such a wonderful story. An enjoyable second chance romance with amazing characters that you can't help but love. The writing pulls you in and holds you as you turn the pages following their journey to HEA. You can't stop yourself from loving everything about this story, yes it's that good. Don't hesitate, grab your copy today, curl up in your favorite reading spot and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2020
I liked this story though I had reservations about her character. Would she be interesting given she had already proven she was willing to settle rather than take a chance at something new? So I read this story wondering if it would reveal her to be able to spread her wings. I won’t give anything away but I enjoyed the journey her character went on in this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2020
Sometimes a sunset holds the promise of a new beginning. I love a book that relates to a second chance at love. Love can be experienced across a wider age spectrum, very relatable characters and pure escapism. Thank you for giving the reader a reason to still believe that love conquers all. Well done!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2020
I enjoyed this charming second chance romance of Liza and Ben. Her niece is sending her on a working vacation to Willow Beach to cater a wedding. There she meets Ben again and as they spend time together all the old feelings start to surface. Will Willow Beach and all its residents work their magic on these two? I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2020
I was a volunteer ARC for this book and loved it. I love her small town stories. The book was well written and I got into the story quickly and couldn’t put it down. Loved the storyline with an interesting twist between the two main characters. Looking forward to reading more books from Grace Palmer!
November 5, 2020
I loved this book. It’s nice to keep up with the people of Willow Beach. Each story is different but he characters from Willow Beach are the same. The story of Lisa and Ben is about second chances.
Looking forward to the next book
Looking forward to the next book
November 10, 2020
Wonderful second-chance romance. This is a feel good story with entertaining characters. Life can throw you a curveball but you just need to work past it. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2023
A great must read series
This book was really good and hard to put down. The love of family, friends, and community really made you feel like part of the group. The scenery of beach and ocean was intense. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
This book was really good and hard to put down. The love of family, friends, and community really made you feel like part of the group. The scenery of beach and ocean was intense. I enjoyed this book from start to finish.
October 30, 2020
This was a super cute story about starting over, second chances, and the importance of friends and family. This was my first book by this author, but I plan to check out her other work. Recommend!
March 30, 2021
Willow Beach Feels like Home
I love the warm, homey community of Willow Beach and the friends I feel like I know. I’m hooked on the town and the people.
I love the warm, homey community of Willow Beach and the friends I feel like I know. I’m hooked on the town and the people.
July 19, 2022
A very enjoyable bok and bood series.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews