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Summer at Blue Sands Cove
The first book in the sparkling Glorious Summer series from CP Ward, author of Christmas at the Marshmallow Cafe and Autumn in Sycamore Park.Tired of the city, Grace Clelland returns to Blue Sands, the quiet Cornish seaside village where she grew up. There she will meet old flames and old friends, rekindle old loves and ignite new ones in a novel that will have you dreaming of the soft crash of the waves on the shore, the feel of sand between your toes, overloaded ice-creams and smoky beach barbeques.Not to be missed - the debut summer novel from CP Ward - the author whose Delightful Christmas and Warm Days of Autumn series have captivated thousands of readers worldwide with their warmth, humour, and just a little hint of romance...
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2021
994 people are currently reading
1582 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
July 15, 2023
I got this book on stuff your kindle day for free. It appeared to be one of the more popular romance novels that day and I thought it sounded like a light read. I didn't look too deeply into the author but saw there was multiple publications. I figured multiple publications meant it was more likely to be a decent book.
However, if I'm honest I almost DNF'd this so many times. I was bored at 30%. By the end I felt like I was skimming the words and I just wanted to be done with the book.
The main reason I disliked this book was the fat phobia. It felt like we couldn't go a few pages without them commenting on someone's body or how they "filled out". The main character even said this about her supposed best friend who she didn't know was in a wheelchair and had battled cancer... MULTIPLE TIMES. Gives me the ick.
The main character was also very judgmental with many of thr characters in the beginning. But then all those things go out the window when she finds a guy she likes. The whole drama (but really just anticlimactic nondrama) with running into her ex with his perfect wife and kids was unnecessary.
There was also sooo much going on at the end - massive influencers, saving the cafe (its new name was not good by the way), saving a dog, competitions...
The plot, characters, pacing, writing, etc just didn't do it for me. I wouldn't recommend this book snd honestly based on the body comments I likely will not read any of this authors backlog/publications.
However, if I'm honest I almost DNF'd this so many times. I was bored at 30%. By the end I felt like I was skimming the words and I just wanted to be done with the book.
The main reason I disliked this book was the fat phobia. It felt like we couldn't go a few pages without them commenting on someone's body or how they "filled out". The main character even said this about her supposed best friend who she didn't know was in a wheelchair and had battled cancer... MULTIPLE TIMES. Gives me the ick.
The main character was also very judgmental with many of thr characters in the beginning. But then all those things go out the window when she finds a guy she likes. The whole drama (but really just anticlimactic nondrama) with running into her ex with his perfect wife and kids was unnecessary.
There was also sooo much going on at the end - massive influencers, saving the cafe (its new name was not good by the way), saving a dog, competitions...
The plot, characters, pacing, writing, etc just didn't do it for me. I wouldn't recommend this book snd honestly based on the body comments I likely will not read any of this authors backlog/publications.
July 6, 2023
This book is so fatphobic I couldn’t finish it. The main character, who I assume is a vessel for the opinions of the author, makes nearly one remark or thought per page about her best friend’s weight. I am so serious. She sees her lifelong best friend in person for the first time in years, finds out she is now wheelchair-bound (which she didn’t know), and her FIRST THOUGHT is that she “filled out”. I can’t. I tried to push through and hoped it would get better and it honestly just kept getting worse. Don’t even get me started on the way the friend in the wheelchair is depicted, as if being in a wheelchair is some sort of failure. Very much do NOT recommend this one!
Full disclosure: I stopped reading at the 30% mark.
Full disclosure: I stopped reading at the 30% mark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2023
Good, quick read. I enjoyed the book, but not anything memorable about it. It’s a nice beach read.
Spoilers: Grace goes back to Blue Sands after not making it in the “big city” of Bristol to work with her bestie Joan at her mom’s ice cream shop. Grace runs into her ex Daniel who now owns the tavern and is happily married to model Isabella with two daughters. Grace eventually finds a way to save the cafe that Joan’s mum is trying to sell, participates in the surfing competition but gets disqualified because she’s wearing a wetsuit from Jason’s surf shop, and doesn’t get to participate in the bike race because she’s looking for old lady Ethel’s dog. The bright spot is the few scenes with Paul- loved those- but didn’t love that Grace hit on the Masked Surfer aka Paul’s dad- super weird. Also didn’t love how much it was mentioned that Joan had gained some weight since being in a wheelchair (from cancer). Thought those details were fat shaming and didn’t like it.
Overall 3 stars. Solid book- not terrible, but not enough that I wanted to finish the “series”. Mostly enjoyed that I got it free on stuff your Kindle day.
Spoilers: Grace goes back to Blue Sands after not making it in the “big city” of Bristol to work with her bestie Joan at her mom’s ice cream shop. Grace runs into her ex Daniel who now owns the tavern and is happily married to model Isabella with two daughters. Grace eventually finds a way to save the cafe that Joan’s mum is trying to sell, participates in the surfing competition but gets disqualified because she’s wearing a wetsuit from Jason’s surf shop, and doesn’t get to participate in the bike race because she’s looking for old lady Ethel’s dog. The bright spot is the few scenes with Paul- loved those- but didn’t love that Grace hit on the Masked Surfer aka Paul’s dad- super weird. Also didn’t love how much it was mentioned that Joan had gained some weight since being in a wheelchair (from cancer). Thought those details were fat shaming and didn’t like it.
Overall 3 stars. Solid book- not terrible, but not enough that I wanted to finish the “series”. Mostly enjoyed that I got it free on stuff your Kindle day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2021
Thank you for my copy of this fun book
Here’s my honest review, please take a look!
This is a delightful, contemporary romance
In which Grace gives her childhood village a second chance.
Her home village is Blue Sand Cove, by the sea
Reconnecting with friends, how great will it be?
Returning there now, she’s hoping for fun,
Escaping the city, deciding what’s to be done.
Re-learning some things she loved as a child
Like going surfing and cycling, running wild.
Meeting up with old friends is full of surprises
With many shocks at changes as she realises
That life goes on despite her fears
And discovers how folks changed, too, through the years.
Meeting an old flame has her feeling strange
Is she over him now? How have they changed?
There’s a job to be done and challenges to face
Including training to take part in a race!
As life goes on in this delightful community
She needs to make the most of every opportunity
Can she help her friend promote her café so
Neither of them will have to leave it and go?
With friendships old and new
And lots of things to do
This is also a lovely, moving romance -
I hope you’ll give it a chance!
Here’s my honest review, please take a look!
This is a delightful, contemporary romance
In which Grace gives her childhood village a second chance.
Her home village is Blue Sand Cove, by the sea
Reconnecting with friends, how great will it be?
Returning there now, she’s hoping for fun,
Escaping the city, deciding what’s to be done.
Re-learning some things she loved as a child
Like going surfing and cycling, running wild.
Meeting up with old friends is full of surprises
With many shocks at changes as she realises
That life goes on despite her fears
And discovers how folks changed, too, through the years.
Meeting an old flame has her feeling strange
Is she over him now? How have they changed?
There’s a job to be done and challenges to face
Including training to take part in a race!
As life goes on in this delightful community
She needs to make the most of every opportunity
Can she help her friend promote her café so
Neither of them will have to leave it and go?
With friendships old and new
And lots of things to do
This is also a lovely, moving romance -
I hope you’ll give it a chance!
July 23, 2024
Last year, I've read two other books by C.P. Ward (Autumn in Sycamore Park + I'm Glad I Found You This Christmas). Both were sweet romance novels about people getting a second chance, that I really enjoyed. Safe to say, I was looking forward to yet another book by the same author.
I don't know what happened with this one, but it was a big hit and miss. It was all over the place, included many short scenes that didn't add anything to the story, and was just downright painful to read at times, because of the shallow nature of the main character(s).
I'm hoping this was a one-off, but I know I'll be hesitant to pick up another book by this author from now on...
I don't know what happened with this one, but it was a big hit and miss. It was all over the place, included many short scenes that didn't add anything to the story, and was just downright painful to read at times, because of the shallow nature of the main character(s).
I'm hoping this was a one-off, but I know I'll be hesitant to pick up another book by this author from now on...
June 30, 2024
You know those books that you only force yourself to finish because you're competitive and Goodreads says "hey set a goal" and so you do but your favorite thing is to beat your own goals and you're also in a few book clubs that have you doing challenges? No? So just me?
Anyways, this is one of those books. I picked it up so I have to finish it but already on page 42 or 19% I don't like it. Her best friend of many many many years gets cancer and ends up in a wheelchair and she doesn't tell her only for her to find out when she decides that her life is a wreck enough for her to go back home. On top of that, she mentions the fact that she has "filled out" more than once so far....Newsflash....she's in a wheelchair. You know, maybe she's adjusting to beating cancer only for it to take the use of her legs... I do not like this book.
There are a few other times where the mention of food and wheelchair come into play. "Losing her mobility hadn't affected Joan's appetite." Okay, why would it? and then later "Even though Joan's wheelchair was one specially designed for outdoors with thick tires and an adjustable suspension, it was Joan herself who was more of a problem, having gained a fair amount of weight since becoming chairbound." Yea, you're a good friend to push your FAT FRIEND UP A HILL. I don't even understand the number of times, weight was mentioned at all. There are so many other instances where the main character harps on such petty identifiers. "filled out" not a "nerd anymore" it was so weird.
Check out a podcast that I host with my boyfriend where we talk books and book related things:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6Xjyht7...
and our Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/talkbooky/
Anyways, this is one of those books. I picked it up so I have to finish it but already on page 42 or 19% I don't like it. Her best friend of many many many years gets cancer and ends up in a wheelchair and she doesn't tell her only for her to find out when she decides that her life is a wreck enough for her to go back home. On top of that, she mentions the fact that she has "filled out" more than once so far....Newsflash....she's in a wheelchair. You know, maybe she's adjusting to beating cancer only for it to take the use of her legs... I do not like this book.
There are a few other times where the mention of food and wheelchair come into play. "Losing her mobility hadn't affected Joan's appetite." Okay, why would it? and then later "Even though Joan's wheelchair was one specially designed for outdoors with thick tires and an adjustable suspension, it was Joan herself who was more of a problem, having gained a fair amount of weight since becoming chairbound." Yea, you're a good friend to push your FAT FRIEND UP A HILL. I don't even understand the number of times, weight was mentioned at all. There are so many other instances where the main character harps on such petty identifiers. "filled out" not a "nerd anymore" it was so weird.
Check out a podcast that I host with my boyfriend where we talk books and book related things:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6Xjyht7...
and our Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/talkbooky/
September 1, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is nice and I like the atmosphere there. I like that it is set by the sea. I like Grace and her friends in Blue Sands Cove. It is perfect summer romance book. It is worth reading. I will continue to read C.P.Ward's books.
July 10, 2024
This book reads as though it's written by a high schooler, no offense to high schoolers. The writing starts out so juvenile that I almost DNF'd this book by the third (very short) chapter.
• Interactions at the beginning of the book with the (soon-to-be ex-) boyfriend and his brother criticizing her for snoring which traumatized him and "ruined his life," causing him to go into an assisted living facility? WHAT THE ACTUAL...?!
• The fitness instructor knew within "minutes" of his injury that he'd be out for months, causing class members to start crying? And he miraculously had a replacement instructor on site and ready immediately?
• The way the new fitness instructor yelled at the spin class and punished them like it was boot camp. And they just stayed and took it instead of leaving?
• The lack of formatting of text messages and context about who is sending them. At one point in the first chapter or two, Grace is texting with her best friend Joan and her then-boyfriend simultaneously, and none of it makes sense.
• Joan doesn't respond to a text *right away* several times, therefore "there was definitely something up." The author was not subtle at all when alluding to the change in Joan's life that Grace had no idea about.
• The nickname Graceful is annoying. Nitpicky, sorry, but it just is.
• The fatphobia. The thing that Grace noticed first about Joan was the weight gain, not the other change in her health/life status. At least once a chapter from there on out, she refers to Joan "filling out." In the first conversation with her high school boyfriend after a decade, she tells him "you've not got fat." After learning Paul's penchant for cooking, she was surprised that he "hadn't ballooned into some beach ball." The author clearly has opinions about anyone or anything that doesn't result in a size 00, as Grace describes an item at the local café as "a full fat, full sugar monstrosity."
• Nothing really happens in this book, other than the main character lamenting her love life and pining after a relationship she ended a decade prior, not because she misses the relationship itself, but because she's incapable of seeing other people happy while she refuses to do anything to change her own status. By the time she gets out of her own way, the book is almost over.
I'm glad I got this book for free because it is pointless drivel that is not worth spending money on. Do not recommend, will not be reading more from this author.
• Interactions at the beginning of the book with the (soon-to-be ex-) boyfriend and his brother criticizing her for snoring which traumatized him and "ruined his life," causing him to go into an assisted living facility? WHAT THE ACTUAL...?!
• The fitness instructor knew within "minutes" of his injury that he'd be out for months, causing class members to start crying? And he miraculously had a replacement instructor on site and ready immediately?
• The way the new fitness instructor yelled at the spin class and punished them like it was boot camp. And they just stayed and took it instead of leaving?
• The lack of formatting of text messages and context about who is sending them. At one point in the first chapter or two, Grace is texting with her best friend Joan and her then-boyfriend simultaneously, and none of it makes sense.
• Joan doesn't respond to a text *right away* several times, therefore "there was definitely something up." The author was not subtle at all when alluding to the change in Joan's life that Grace had no idea about.
• The nickname Graceful is annoying. Nitpicky, sorry, but it just is.
• The fatphobia. The thing that Grace noticed first about Joan was the weight gain, not the other change in her health/life status. At least once a chapter from there on out, she refers to Joan "filling out." In the first conversation with her high school boyfriend after a decade, she tells him "you've not got fat." After learning Paul's penchant for cooking, she was surprised that he "hadn't ballooned into some beach ball." The author clearly has opinions about anyone or anything that doesn't result in a size 00, as Grace describes an item at the local café as "a full fat, full sugar monstrosity."
• Nothing really happens in this book, other than the main character lamenting her love life and pining after a relationship she ended a decade prior, not because she misses the relationship itself, but because she's incapable of seeing other people happy while she refuses to do anything to change her own status. By the time she gets out of her own way, the book is almost over.
I'm glad I got this book for free because it is pointless drivel that is not worth spending money on. Do not recommend, will not be reading more from this author.
August 9, 2021
Looking for a light fun read? Then here it is ! This is the first book in the Glorious Summer series , it is a wonderful , fun, light book to read then perfect read while you're sat in the sun with your favourite drink .
In this book we meet Grace , she returns from a big bustling city to Blue Sands , a quiet village and just what she is in need of after being in the city , back to her home town, you can practically see the waves , hear the seagulls, feel the breeze on your face as you read the book. The bad thing (occasionally can be good) about going back to where you lived is seeing old flames and old friends . She returns to help an old friend with her cafe
Grace is a lovely character to read about , it does start the book with a fair few down points to start the book off with , but bear with it as it does start to get uplifting! It is a quick light read. I really liked reading this book and can't wait to see more from this author
In this book we meet Grace , she returns from a big bustling city to Blue Sands , a quiet village and just what she is in need of after being in the city , back to her home town, you can practically see the waves , hear the seagulls, feel the breeze on your face as you read the book. The bad thing (occasionally can be good) about going back to where you lived is seeing old flames and old friends . She returns to help an old friend with her cafe
Grace is a lovely character to read about , it does start the book with a fair few down points to start the book off with , but bear with it as it does start to get uplifting! It is a quick light read. I really liked reading this book and can't wait to see more from this author
August 10, 2021
I must admit that prior to being invited to take part in the blog tour for ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove, I hadn’t actually come across C. P. Ward or their work before. Having enjoyed reading ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ as much as I did, then I am rather cross at myself for discovering how flipping great this author is. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely loved the character of Grace Clelland and I warmed to her from the very start. She is a kind young lady, who is going through a bit of a bad patch. Her relationship with somebody called Gavin breaks down after he basically blames her for exacerbating his anxiety. To be perfectly honest I think that she is well shot of him and she had a lucky escape. If that wasn’t enough then she also gets the sack from her job as a waitress after she tipped a hot drink over somebody, who had definitely crossed the ‘inappropriate behaviour’ line. Grace was brought up in a place called ‘Blue Sands Cove’ and after her sacking, Grace’s friend Joan invites her back to Blue Sands Cove to help out in her café. Grace starts to think that a break would do her the power of good and so she goes back to Blue Sands Cove to renew old friendships, have a catch up with her best mate and try to heal. What happens? Well for the answers to those questions and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
As soon as I started to read ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’, I knew that I was going to become addicted to reading this delightful sounding book. In fact once I picked the book up that was it- I didn’t put the book down again until I read the very last word on the very last page. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I began to consider Grace as being a friend of mine and of course I had to keep reading to see if things worked out for her in the end and if she found the happiness that she so deserved. I found ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ to be a light hearted, fun and feel good story.
‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ is really well written. CP Ward has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends than an actual story. I know that might sound a bit odd to some. In Grace, CP Ward has created a truly likeable character, who is your ‘girl next door’ type and who you take to your heart. I love the way in which CP Ward makes the reader feel part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. The author described Blue Sands Cove so realistically and vividly that I was all set to pack a suitcase and go for a holiday!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I absolutely loved the character of Grace Clelland and I warmed to her from the very start. She is a kind young lady, who is going through a bit of a bad patch. Her relationship with somebody called Gavin breaks down after he basically blames her for exacerbating his anxiety. To be perfectly honest I think that she is well shot of him and she had a lucky escape. If that wasn’t enough then she also gets the sack from her job as a waitress after she tipped a hot drink over somebody, who had definitely crossed the ‘inappropriate behaviour’ line. Grace was brought up in a place called ‘Blue Sands Cove’ and after her sacking, Grace’s friend Joan invites her back to Blue Sands Cove to help out in her café. Grace starts to think that a break would do her the power of good and so she goes back to Blue Sands Cove to renew old friendships, have a catch up with her best mate and try to heal. What happens? Well for the answers to those questions and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
As soon as I started to read ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’, I knew that I was going to become addicted to reading this delightful sounding book. In fact once I picked the book up that was it- I didn’t put the book down again until I read the very last word on the very last page. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I began to consider Grace as being a friend of mine and of course I had to keep reading to see if things worked out for her in the end and if she found the happiness that she so deserved. I found ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ to be a light hearted, fun and feel good story.
‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ is really well written. CP Ward has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading this book felt more like a chat between friends than an actual story. I know that might sound a bit odd to some. In Grace, CP Ward has created a truly likeable character, who is your ‘girl next door’ type and who you take to your heart. I love the way in which CP Ward makes the reader feel part of the story themselves and at the heart of the action. The author described Blue Sands Cove so realistically and vividly that I was all set to pack a suitcase and go for a holiday!
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer At Blue Sands Cove’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
January 6, 2026
It was somewhat ok until it wasn't.
Why is the main character so... like that. There is a lot of fat-phobia in this book, and it comments directly from the main character to her so-called "best friend". Loads of self-pity (gets old at some point). Everything magically fixed by a guy (that she was weirdly judgemental of at the beginning(?)). At some point there's so much going on, there is nothing substantial really happening. It weird, but it's true.
Personal reminder not to read again. At some point I felt I was just skimming through it to get it over with.
Why is the main character so... like that. There is a lot of fat-phobia in this book, and it comments directly from the main character to her so-called "best friend". Loads of self-pity (gets old at some point). Everything magically fixed by a guy (that she was weirdly judgemental of at the beginning(?)). At some point there's so much going on, there is nothing substantial really happening. It weird, but it's true.
Personal reminder not to read again. At some point I felt I was just skimming through it to get it over with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Cute and quick summery beach read! This book took me a few chapters before it pulled my interest which is one of the reasons why I took off some stars. I did like the overall story and the happy ending.
Main character could be a bit “whiny” at times.. she was heartbroken about a guy she dated a decade ago for two months being married ? A bit dramatic..
Over cute story that I enjoyed.
Haven’t decided if I’ll read the next book in the series however.
Cute and quick summery beach read! This book took me a few chapters before it pulled my interest which is one of the reasons why I took off some stars. I did like the overall story and the happy ending.
Main character could be a bit “whiny” at times.. she was heartbroken about a guy she dated a decade ago for two months being married ? A bit dramatic..
Over cute story that I enjoyed.
Haven’t decided if I’ll read the next book in the series however.
December 18, 2024
Overall, this was a cute and cozy story (a tad boring), but it got deducted serious points for the author, including major unnecessary fat phobic comments, that literally added nothing to the plot.
I fear some of the authors' personal beliefs bled into the story regarding anyone not at an uber fitness level body shape, appeared to have to be described as such.
I fear some of the authors' personal beliefs bled into the story regarding anyone not at an uber fitness level body shape, appeared to have to be described as such.
June 28, 2023
perfect read for a day of adventure!
This was such a fun read! The perfect hint of summer and beach vibes with all the small town feels- forever friendships, young love, and all the perfect amount of hometown competitions!!
This was such a fun read! The perfect hint of summer and beach vibes with all the small town feels- forever friendships, young love, and all the perfect amount of hometown competitions!!
August 14, 2025
not enouf going on
December 7, 2023
picked up this book at its set in my home county and came recommended to me, however..
I didn’t like grace AT ALL- pick me energy. and all the fatphobic comments made to her best friend (?!) that were so unnecessary- she finds out her friend is in a wheelchair and her first thought is that she’s ’filled out’.
and when she wasn’t being fatphobic, she was always critiquing other characters appearances and personality for no reason, it didn’t add literally anything to the story so why?? just why?!
Only redeeming characters were Joan, Jason and Paul, and i didn’t even like Joan that much.
I didn’t like grace AT ALL- pick me energy. and all the fatphobic comments made to her best friend (?!) that were so unnecessary- she finds out her friend is in a wheelchair and her first thought is that she’s ’filled out’.
and when she wasn’t being fatphobic, she was always critiquing other characters appearances and personality for no reason, it didn’t add literally anything to the story so why?? just why?!
Only redeeming characters were Joan, Jason and Paul, and i didn’t even like Joan that much.
August 6, 2021
This is book one of the Glorious Summer series and the main character is Grace Clelland, who has been working and living in Bristol and had been dating Gavin for some three months. When he arranges to meet her one evening, he basically wants to complain about her and what he doesn’t like about her! When he tries to compare her snoring to causing him night terrors and having ruined his life. It is clearly time to break up! She’s fed up with dealing with entitled idiots in her job at a café, which she has now left in a cloud of a legal case against her. She calls her best friend Joan and arranges t come and work with her at her café in Blue Sands Cove for the summer, at least. She may have kept in touch with Joan whilst in the city, but it seems Joan hasn’t told her everything that has happened to her in return, so she has a bit of a shock awaiting her! Another problem she will have to face, is the ex-boyfriend she broke up with, to pursue her wishes in the big city, breaking his heart ad even her own. He stayed in the village and now owns and runs the local pub, along with a beautiful wife and two kids in tow. She tries to avoid him as much as possible.
Joan is running the café and shop, as her parents are hoping to retire, but her mother is also wanting to sell the house and café/shop, to fund their retirement. The café and shop are now one open space, whilst they used to be two separate shops when Grace was last there, but haven’t been making ends meet. Grace starts to try and think up ways to draw more custom into the shop and café, whilst in competition with a posh and over-priced restaurant nearby. The figure of the Masked Surfer brings back childhood adoration and leaves her wanting to get back into the surf again. She also aims to ride her old BMX bike up the local hill, which leaves locals and tourists out of gas, before even getting to its peak. A local bike race to its summit is to be held shortly, and a famous outsider is likely to win, whereas Grace wants to keep it local! She may want to get to know the identity of the Masked Surfer, putting her in some embarrassing situations as she goes through a list of possible locals it could be. These lead to a bit of romance when Joan dares her into a certain action, against her wishes or it being someone she even fancies, but first impressions are often wrong! A lost child will lead to Grace’s best chance to boost business, especially with the ice-creams that are everyone’s favourites. An enforced date soon turns into something more, as the relaxing life in the seaside village brings back feelings of belonging and satisfaction with life, ex and all. An easy to read seaside tale, with an old flame who has clearly moved on, an old friend who kept a lot of secrets from her, and a romance out of left field. All the ingredients for a summer read. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Joan is running the café and shop, as her parents are hoping to retire, but her mother is also wanting to sell the house and café/shop, to fund their retirement. The café and shop are now one open space, whilst they used to be two separate shops when Grace was last there, but haven’t been making ends meet. Grace starts to try and think up ways to draw more custom into the shop and café, whilst in competition with a posh and over-priced restaurant nearby. The figure of the Masked Surfer brings back childhood adoration and leaves her wanting to get back into the surf again. She also aims to ride her old BMX bike up the local hill, which leaves locals and tourists out of gas, before even getting to its peak. A local bike race to its summit is to be held shortly, and a famous outsider is likely to win, whereas Grace wants to keep it local! She may want to get to know the identity of the Masked Surfer, putting her in some embarrassing situations as she goes through a list of possible locals it could be. These lead to a bit of romance when Joan dares her into a certain action, against her wishes or it being someone she even fancies, but first impressions are often wrong! A lost child will lead to Grace’s best chance to boost business, especially with the ice-creams that are everyone’s favourites. An enforced date soon turns into something more, as the relaxing life in the seaside village brings back feelings of belonging and satisfaction with life, ex and all. An easy to read seaside tale, with an old flame who has clearly moved on, an old friend who kept a lot of secrets from her, and a romance out of left field. All the ingredients for a summer read. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
August 10, 2021
Grace is having a rough time in her waitressing job in Bristol, England. After having to put up with abuse from customers, she agrees to come home to help her best friend Joan with the Blue Sands Cove café that she runs with her mother. When Grace arrives she finds that many things are the same but there are also noticeable changes. There is a lot of comedy in this book as Grace finds that it’s not always easy to go home.
She and Joan revisit their past, but Grace must start over in many ways. Many of her expectations aren’t accurate, but she creates goals for her summer visit. There are lots of fun characters in the book, such as: Ethel-the grumpy old neighbor, Jason – ex-nerd/surfer dude, and the Masked Surfer. The book held my interest and moved fast with all the adventures. Will Joan find the identity of the masked surfer, win the surfing competition, or hurry back to Bristol?
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I would give it a PG rating, because of references to a wild, partying past. The romance in the book is clean.
She and Joan revisit their past, but Grace must start over in many ways. Many of her expectations aren’t accurate, but she creates goals for her summer visit. There are lots of fun characters in the book, such as: Ethel-the grumpy old neighbor, Jason – ex-nerd/surfer dude, and the Masked Surfer. The book held my interest and moved fast with all the adventures. Will Joan find the identity of the masked surfer, win the surfing competition, or hurry back to Bristol?
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I would give it a PG rating, because of references to a wild, partying past. The romance in the book is clean.
August 9, 2021
– Starting over and taking a second chance runs through this contemporary romance. Grace has returned to the seaside village where she lived as a young girl and takes the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and familiar haunts. Grace had ambitions to spread her wings beyond the life she knew but has found that the grass is not necessarily greener.
This is a light and enjoyable story with romance in the background. Grace's friendship with Joan is believable and central to the story. Grace finds that for some, there have been lifechanging changes and this is dealt with in a matter of fact way but with sensitivity. I enjoyed the humorous episodes, especially when Grace came into contact with her next= door neighbour. This is a book to take on holiday, with a warm uplifting tone and plenty of subplots to keep your interest.
In short: A light romance full of summer sun.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
This is a light and enjoyable story with romance in the background. Grace's friendship with Joan is believable and central to the story. Grace finds that for some, there have been lifechanging changes and this is dealt with in a matter of fact way but with sensitivity. I enjoyed the humorous episodes, especially when Grace came into contact with her next= door neighbour. This is a book to take on holiday, with a warm uplifting tone and plenty of subplots to keep your interest.
In short: A light romance full of summer sun.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
August 13, 2021
Summer at Blue Sands Cove is the first book I have read from CP Ward. I enjoyed it immensely and immediately bought book 1 of his Christmas series.
The characters are real and very relatable. Grace seemed like a friend by the end of the book. I hope she pops up in the next book. I liked most of the people that live in the sleepy beach town. A few characters are written to dislike, which certainly adds interest to the story.
The themes of coming to grips with life, disability, letting go of dreams while reaching for new were authentic and poignant.
Humor plays a significant role in this tale. Just like in real life, if you can find humor in situations, you are on your way to happiness.
I recommend Summer at Blue Sands Cove to readers searching for an entertaining beach read, as well as lovers of RomCom, British humor, and fun romantic fiction.
I received a digital copy of the book form a blog tour. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
The characters are real and very relatable. Grace seemed like a friend by the end of the book. I hope she pops up in the next book. I liked most of the people that live in the sleepy beach town. A few characters are written to dislike, which certainly adds interest to the story.
The themes of coming to grips with life, disability, letting go of dreams while reaching for new were authentic and poignant.
Humor plays a significant role in this tale. Just like in real life, if you can find humor in situations, you are on your way to happiness.
I recommend Summer at Blue Sands Cove to readers searching for an entertaining beach read, as well as lovers of RomCom, British humor, and fun romantic fiction.
I received a digital copy of the book form a blog tour. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.
November 5, 2024
I picked up this book as part of a Kindle freebie day, and I’m grateful I didn’t spend money on it. I got through about 17% of the book (around page 37) before deciding to set it aside – which is unusual for me, as I’m generally willing to give books a fair chance. Unfortunately, this one didn’t manage to pull me in.
The storyline feels flat, lacking the engaging or heartwarming charm that you’d expect from a summer romance set by the sea. While I hoped for some picturesque descriptions and well-developed characters, I found myself reading a rather bland narrative with little to hold my interest. The main character didn’t come across as relatable or particularly likable, and the setting wasn’t as enchanting as I’d hoped for a summer escape.
Overall, Summer at Blue Sands Cove didn’t live up to its cozy seaside promise, and I wouldn’t recommend spending money on it. If you’re looking for a light-hearted beach read, you may want to look elsewhere.
The storyline feels flat, lacking the engaging or heartwarming charm that you’d expect from a summer romance set by the sea. While I hoped for some picturesque descriptions and well-developed characters, I found myself reading a rather bland narrative with little to hold my interest. The main character didn’t come across as relatable or particularly likable, and the setting wasn’t as enchanting as I’d hoped for a summer escape.
Overall, Summer at Blue Sands Cove didn’t live up to its cozy seaside promise, and I wouldn’t recommend spending money on it. If you’re looking for a light-hearted beach read, you may want to look elsewhere.
June 25, 2021
4.5 stars out of five
I really liked taking a trip to Blue Sands with Grace. It was the perfect summer holiday. Grace's childhood village is great. I loved the way the author wrote the area. Its a unique landscape full of local characters and tourists. I loved Grace and her best friend Joan. Their relationship is something special. I liked how Grace was able to reconnect so easily with Joan. The writer gave them an easy family feel.
Another aspect I loved was that there was nice representation of a person in a wheelchair. Joan was not a stereotype. She was not an afterthought. Joan was a part of the action.
I loved the way the author described the scenes. The village really came alive with the author's words.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased this book on Amazon because I needed it in my library.
I really liked taking a trip to Blue Sands with Grace. It was the perfect summer holiday. Grace's childhood village is great. I loved the way the author wrote the area. Its a unique landscape full of local characters and tourists. I loved Grace and her best friend Joan. Their relationship is something special. I liked how Grace was able to reconnect so easily with Joan. The writer gave them an easy family feel.
Another aspect I loved was that there was nice representation of a person in a wheelchair. Joan was not a stereotype. She was not an afterthought. Joan was a part of the action.
I loved the way the author described the scenes. The village really came alive with the author's words.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased this book on Amazon because I needed it in my library.
July 17, 2021
Couldn’t Get Past Multiple Downers
While a novel or novella doesn't have to be all sweetness and light, this one started with a series of downers the heroine had to face, including being verbally and sexually harassed at work, her terrible boyfriend breaking up with her (and really going to town on all the issues he had with her), and being verbally abused in a spin class. Frankly, I just don't like books that start so negatively. Hopefully, life is not just a series of bad things happening to decent (?) people. Perhaps some would find this amusing, but I just did not. I'll admit that during the global crisis, my reading tastes have changed, and I have little tolerance for stories with a lot of negative stuff happening, especially the beginning. Unlike the heroine, I never did get to Cornwall.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
While a novel or novella doesn't have to be all sweetness and light, this one started with a series of downers the heroine had to face, including being verbally and sexually harassed at work, her terrible boyfriend breaking up with her (and really going to town on all the issues he had with her), and being verbally abused in a spin class. Frankly, I just don't like books that start so negatively. Hopefully, life is not just a series of bad things happening to decent (?) people. Perhaps some would find this amusing, but I just did not. I'll admit that during the global crisis, my reading tastes have changed, and I have little tolerance for stories with a lot of negative stuff happening, especially the beginning. Unlike the heroine, I never did get to Cornwall.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
July 21, 2021
Grace returns to her hometown, called by her best friend to spend the summer working for her mother in a small cafe/shop.
Returning after a few years, she finds that many things have changed, including her best friend. Trying to cope , but also finding old and new friends, and meeting her old flame again. Suddenly there are many options, but she is not sure if she wants to return to her hometown permanently.
A typical small-town-story, with some romance and a small mystery involved. In itself there is nothing special to the story, but it is well-written and quite entertaining, as the characters are believable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Returning after a few years, she finds that many things have changed, including her best friend. Trying to cope , but also finding old and new friends, and meeting her old flame again. Suddenly there are many options, but she is not sure if she wants to return to her hometown permanently.
A typical small-town-story, with some romance and a small mystery involved. In itself there is nothing special to the story, but it is well-written and quite entertaining, as the characters are believable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2024
Dnf @ 67%
I know, at this point I could have sucked it up and finish it but I couldn't get past the whining of the FMC (why is "Graceful" even a nickname??). She dumps her boyfriend 10 years ago and is surprised when he.... Gets over her and make a life with someone else? And her supposedly best friend does not tell her that she gets cancer and is permanently disabled a few... Months ago, I guess. And her excuse was that the best friend wanted the FMC to come to her if SHE needed her? What the fuck? And I'm not even talking about the long winded descriptions of the town that make absolutely no sense
Life is short and I'm not putting myself to the end of that book. I'm happy I got it for free
I know, at this point I could have sucked it up and finish it but I couldn't get past the whining of the FMC (why is "Graceful" even a nickname??). She dumps her boyfriend 10 years ago and is surprised when he.... Gets over her and make a life with someone else? And her supposedly best friend does not tell her that she gets cancer and is permanently disabled a few... Months ago, I guess. And her excuse was that the best friend wanted the FMC to come to her if SHE needed her? What the fuck? And I'm not even talking about the long winded descriptions of the town that make absolutely no sense
Life is short and I'm not putting myself to the end of that book. I'm happy I got it for free
June 27, 2021
Solid 3.5 star
This took me a bit to get into just as I found it a bit hard to believe Grace will drop everything to come back home and help her childhood best friend run her families café when she has a mortgage and a job already, I was also a bit surprised that her supposed best friend kept something so big from her. But once you get over all of the it was a good read with characters you enjoy and a story that has you wondering where things will end up not just for Grace but also Joan and her family and the new along with old friends Grace connects with.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This took me a bit to get into just as I found it a bit hard to believe Grace will drop everything to come back home and help her childhood best friend run her families café when she has a mortgage and a job already, I was also a bit surprised that her supposed best friend kept something so big from her. But once you get over all of the it was a good read with characters you enjoy and a story that has you wondering where things will end up not just for Grace but also Joan and her family and the new along with old friends Grace connects with.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2024
I generally enjoy books in this category—light, summery reads, but this one was a little hard to find my footing with. I don’t mind happy, predictable endings but this one was a little anticlimactic for my taste.
I also felt like there were a few references to the weight of the characters that would’ve been better left unsaid. Both when the MC was talking about the weight her best friend had gained after being wheelchair bound from cancer and when she was talking about herself and how fit she was (she’s “always been small enough to not feel like a whale in a bikini”? I can’t remember the exact quote but that was the gist).
Not a bad story overall, but it didnt work for me.
I also felt like there were a few references to the weight of the characters that would’ve been better left unsaid. Both when the MC was talking about the weight her best friend had gained after being wheelchair bound from cancer and when she was talking about herself and how fit she was (she’s “always been small enough to not feel like a whale in a bikini”? I can’t remember the exact quote but that was the gist).
Not a bad story overall, but it didnt work for me.
June 11, 2021
Great Summer Beach Read
This is more Women's Fiction than anything else. Of course, there is a touch of romance, but there is so much more. While the story centers around a 28-year-old woman who has returned to her small hometown for the summer, trying to find herself. But it is also about her classmates who never left, their parents who are approaching retirement, and the entire town. It is a good story with lots of fun characters and the neat happenings of a small summer town on the beach. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is more Women's Fiction than anything else. Of course, there is a touch of romance, but there is so much more. While the story centers around a 28-year-old woman who has returned to her small hometown for the summer, trying to find herself. But it is also about her classmates who never left, their parents who are approaching retirement, and the entire town. It is a good story with lots of fun characters and the neat happenings of a small summer town on the beach. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2021
A great summer beach read that has you dreaming of ocean waves crashing on the shore and gorgeous ocean sunsets. It's beautifully written and described so well you feel like you're right there in the story. The setting feels so realistic as you turn each page and you can imagine being on the beach with the sand between your toes, the sun on your face and the breeze blowing through your hair. A perfect summer time read you'll be glad you added to your reading list.
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.
July 6, 2021
Grace returns to her hometown, to find herself and reconnect. Problem is there are good and bad people and memories still there. Ease into life there and see how the people have changed over the years she has been gone.
The characters were terrific, with great backstories and sometimes fun banter. The storyline is a roller coaster of good and bad feelings and memories. Surprises at how some have changed and grown up. A feel good story that gets you thinking about your own old memories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters were terrific, with great backstories and sometimes fun banter. The storyline is a roller coaster of good and bad feelings and memories. Surprises at how some have changed and grown up. A feel good story that gets you thinking about your own old memories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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