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Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club
Julia Wild was thrilled to trade her legal briefcase for stiletto heels and a glam wardrobe when she accepted the position as a high society fundraiser at a prestigious performing arts center. The Addison Center is supported by mega-donations from the ultra-rich in Royal Coconut Beach, but the gala lifestyle is a minefield.
As if the punishing schedule isn't enough, Julia's boss is having an affair with an important donor ( is this what it takes to get big donations? ) and someone is trying to sabotage her job. Even as she begins to doubt her new career choice, she weakens to the seduction of elite social circles and the allure of becoming a fundraising rainmaker.
But what really matters are the fascinating and strong-willed women who become her confidantes. They meet regularly for lunch, gossip, subtle lessons, and cocktails - while they dissect the wealth-fueled dynamics of the rich and powerful.
The deeper Julia is drawn into this world, the more reality and fantasy blur, and fault lines in her marriage surface. When she meets a debonair Argentinian billionaire, moral ambiguities and temptations are stirred. Will this fascinating man push her to her limit? Will she listen to her new companions who offer their smarts and feminist sensibilities?
It is only when a suspicion caused by an untimely death blows up the carefully constructed glittering mask of the moneyed set that Julia realizes she must decide whose side to take- and how willing she is to risk everything ?
As if the punishing schedule isn't enough, Julia's boss is having an affair with an important donor ( is this what it takes to get big donations? ) and someone is trying to sabotage her job. Even as she begins to doubt her new career choice, she weakens to the seduction of elite social circles and the allure of becoming a fundraising rainmaker.
But what really matters are the fascinating and strong-willed women who become her confidantes. They meet regularly for lunch, gossip, subtle lessons, and cocktails - while they dissect the wealth-fueled dynamics of the rich and powerful.
The deeper Julia is drawn into this world, the more reality and fantasy blur, and fault lines in her marriage surface. When she meets a debonair Argentinian billionaire, moral ambiguities and temptations are stirred. Will this fascinating man push her to her limit? Will she listen to her new companions who offer their smarts and feminist sensibilities?
It is only when a suspicion caused by an untimely death blows up the carefully constructed glittering mask of the moneyed set that Julia realizes she must decide whose side to take- and how willing she is to risk everything ?
382 pages, Paperback
Published March 7, 2023
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 29, 2025
OVERVIEW:
Royal Coconut Beach is obviously Palm Beach, Florida.
Julia for some unexplained reason leaves the law practice where she works to go into “development” at a fancy smancy “performing arts center”, soliciting donations from the richy rich.
She doubts herself, doubts her choices, fears her boss, and is wary of her coworkers. Then, feeling a strain at home, she begins a friendship with a smooth-talking, older, married man.
But, oh! Never fear! Her boss quits, Julia gets a promotion, her backstabbing coworker is revealed, she leaves the older man friend, and Julia and her hubby profess their undying love for each other. All is saved!
OF NOTE:
The opening scene is rather nauseating as Julia describes to her husband Mark how she found her boss Chrissy having sex with a powerful arts donor while at work the other day.
Other than that, this is clean fiction with no sex scenes or vulgarity.
CONCLUSION:
Uninspired. And quite possibly a memoir disguised as a tedious novel.
- Desiree Reads
The Bookish Birder
March 28, 2025
See more book recs @ https://bookshop.org/shop/TheBookishB...
Royal Coconut Beach is obviously Palm Beach, Florida.
Julia for some unexplained reason leaves the law practice where she works to go into “development” at a fancy smancy “performing arts center”, soliciting donations from the richy rich.
She doubts herself, doubts her choices, fears her boss, and is wary of her coworkers. Then, feeling a strain at home, she begins a friendship with a smooth-talking, older, married man.
But, oh! Never fear! Her boss quits, Julia gets a promotion, her backstabbing coworker is revealed, she leaves the older man friend, and Julia and her hubby profess their undying love for each other. All is saved!
OF NOTE:
The opening scene is rather nauseating as Julia describes to her husband Mark how she found her boss Chrissy having sex with a powerful arts donor while at work the other day.
Other than that, this is clean fiction with no sex scenes or vulgarity.
CONCLUSION:
Uninspired. And quite possibly a memoir disguised as a tedious novel.
- Desiree Reads
The Bookish Birder
March 28, 2025
See more book recs @ https://bookshop.org/shop/TheBookishB...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2023
A debut novel by Diane Bergner about Julia Wild, who changes careers from working in a law firm to the cut-throat world of non-profits when she accepts the position of Fundraising Coordinator for the Addison Performing Arts Center in Royal Coconut Beach, Florida. Julia enters a world very different from her own, now being expected to entertain, wine & dine the elites at exclusive clubs, to raise funds. The book follows Julia on her journey into this new world and all the trappings that come with it.
It was a good read, very well written and would class it as a beach read. It's not my usual genre of book, so at times I did struggle with the pacing of the book, looking for a little more to happen, but overall a good read. I'd give it 3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley, Meryl Moss Media Group and Diane Bergner for this ARC.
It was a good read, very well written and would class it as a beach read. It's not my usual genre of book, so at times I did struggle with the pacing of the book, looking for a little more to happen, but overall a good read. I'd give it 3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley, Meryl Moss Media Group and Diane Bergner for this ARC.
January 24, 2024
I liked the main character, Julia Wild. She was smart, resourceful and she stayed true to herself in the face of temptation. I liked the way she handles her marriage problems at the end. I also liked her husband, and I loved that Julia relied and confided on the supportive group of friends that made up the Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club. The story could’ve been a bit shorter, and the drama with Chrissy and Maya could’ve been resolved better, but I liked the book overall and would very likely read more by this author.
April 3, 2023
This book was interesting enough, but I wanted more. The premise and characters were so interesting, but it felt like the story never got deep enough to really engage me. It had elements of romance, thriller, and suspense, but none of these plot lines took the lead.
April 21, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
This book is definitely a light and fun read that is perfect for the beach or pool. Filled with drama, gossip, romance and even murder mystery. I do wish the Lunch Club was in the story more.
This book is definitely a light and fun read that is perfect for the beach or pool. Filled with drama, gossip, romance and even murder mystery. I do wish the Lunch Club was in the story more.
April 14, 2023
Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club is Diane Bergner’s debut novel. Julia Wild quits her reputable job at a law firm to work at The Addison Center, schmoozing as a high society fundraiser.
Julia’s new coworkers, however, are the quintessential mean girls; enter Chrissy, Poppy, and Maya. There is no shortage of secrets with this catty bunch! While working at The Addison Center, Julia forms The Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club with ex coworker and friend Nina. What’s better than Prosecco and gossip with a good friend? 🥂
Y’all I wanted to love this book! The synopsis was right up my alley, but unfortunately I just couldn’t get into this one. It had short chapters which I love, but read like a YA. Now I love a good YA, however, I found this one to have a clunky writing style, very repetitive, and lacking essential details at times.
I would have liked to see more points of view: the coworkers at The Addison Center or the lunch club friends could have been a fun take.
Thank you to @katieandbreypa and @meryl_moss for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
All opinions are my own.
Julia’s new coworkers, however, are the quintessential mean girls; enter Chrissy, Poppy, and Maya. There is no shortage of secrets with this catty bunch! While working at The Addison Center, Julia forms The Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club with ex coworker and friend Nina. What’s better than Prosecco and gossip with a good friend? 🥂
Y’all I wanted to love this book! The synopsis was right up my alley, but unfortunately I just couldn’t get into this one. It had short chapters which I love, but read like a YA. Now I love a good YA, however, I found this one to have a clunky writing style, very repetitive, and lacking essential details at times.
I would have liked to see more points of view: the coworkers at The Addison Center or the lunch club friends could have been a fun take.
Thank you to @katieandbreypa and @meryl_moss for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
All opinions are my own.
May 10, 2023
Let me start off by saying, this isn’t my usual type of read but I still enjoyed it very much.
Also coming from a smallish city in Michigan I have never really meet any billionaire or famous person! So getting to read about Julia’s career change and seeing how she navigated a new “Rich” world was pretty interesting.
Of course starting a new job is stressful in its self but learning how to work with people who have never heard a “no” would definitely cause a little panic.
Julia also unfortunately has to deal with bump in her marriage and a possible infidelity. Had me impatiently waiting to see if it was happening or not! It was interesting seeing her thought process through out the situation.
But of course she had her amazing friends of the lunch club helping her through everything!
I enjoyed the book very much,
Also coming from a smallish city in Michigan I have never really meet any billionaire or famous person! So getting to read about Julia’s career change and seeing how she navigated a new “Rich” world was pretty interesting.
Of course starting a new job is stressful in its self but learning how to work with people who have never heard a “no” would definitely cause a little panic.
Julia also unfortunately has to deal with bump in her marriage and a possible infidelity. Had me impatiently waiting to see if it was happening or not! It was interesting seeing her thought process through out the situation.
But of course she had her amazing friends of the lunch club helping her through everything!
I enjoyed the book very much,
July 14, 2023
The Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club synopsis and premise of “Scandal meets Real Housewives of Palm Beach” really held a lot of promise for me. I was super intrigued and then found myself wondering where the Scandal part of it came up. It definitely featured the housewife drama, though I wish there was a bit more focus on the Lunch Club aspect of the story. Julia’s life became a bit repetitive through the middle of the story. The last 25% of the book was where all of the drama and intrigue was.
The story was a clever one, with lots of characters’ lives intertwining in a rich neighborhood in Florida. I can see that this one would be a hit for a lot of people but unfortunately it fell a bit flat for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Meryl Moss Media for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story was a clever one, with lots of characters’ lives intertwining in a rich neighborhood in Florida. I can see that this one would be a hit for a lot of people but unfortunately it fell a bit flat for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Meryl Moss Media for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 6, 2024
My mother always reminded me that it didn’t make a lick of a difference whether you were raised in a barn or an impeccably decorated estate. It’s what goes on inside those walls that’s important.
Dressed to the nines, Christ was even mod attractive than I recalled. Rich chestnut brown hair cascades down her slim waist. Her busy hugging oatmeal cashmere sweater accentuated her curves. Long legs and beige Manolo Blahnik heels made her even taller. Perfect posture and matching diction added yo to the idea fundraising package. It was hard to believe she was a mother of two teenage children.
When Thad and I accumulated enough money, we gave back. We wrote checks to causes we believed in. It wasn’t just check-writing that mattered, either. It’s great to volunteer. I spent countless hours at the veterans administration hospital talking to vets. Her eyes sparkled and she beamed with pride.
Our commitment to philanthropy stemmed from our deep Christian father. We’re all one in spirit. One god. No matter what we have been given, it’s not really ours. We’re here simply to be good stewards of our fortune. That’s what we do — serve, either with money or by doing. How lucky for me that j get to do both.
Compared to all of marks angst and stress, JJ seemed light and airy, despite the fact that he was an extremely sophisticated, complex man. Just the thought of him was intoxicating.
A new hours later marks arms em eloped me. K felt his warmth through my silk nightgown, which he slipped over my head. He kissed me on the mouth, and then all over. Our lovemaking lasted a long time. Make-up sex without talking was a good way to end the disconnect of our non-conversation. I knew it wouldn’t make any of our real issues disappear, but it was a welcome reprieve.
He’s afraid he’s not being a good provider. Many men feel a sense of responsibility to protect and provide for those they love. This would include taking care of their wives financially regardless of whether she earns plenty.
Yes. I always thought he would take care of me. I know I’m perfectly capable of supporting myself but that’s not the point. Part of my attraction to mark was how driven and ambitious he was. He always made me feel safe. I lived that about him. Am I less of a modern woman?
Absolutely not. Wanting the comfort of knowing you’re taken care of is perfectly reasonable.
I don’t want you to think you’re alone. It’s not easy stuff like this goes on all the time your feelings are totally normal to have captured the heart of such a charismatic man is a beautiful thing in spite of it all I’m not saying you should act on it you know how I feel about Mark. He’s rare he loves and adores you Marriage isn’t perfect. You know that from what I know yours is a special one and he’s a keeper. You need to look closer at what you do have and then figure out what you want. Do what’s right for you. That’s what matters. It’s your decision but make sure you’re being sensible either way you should be flattered. Just don’t do anything rash promise me you’ll stay calm and do not tell any of this to Mark.
Elise was right how wonderful and thrilling to have the intentions of a passionate man like JJ and perhaps that should be enough. an exciting memory to hold onto.
It’s plain and simple you were looking for something that’s missing these things. Don’t just happen. It doesn’t work that way. See this as a sign post. Maybe you’re feeling lonely. After all Mark does travel a fair amount and has an extraordinary amount of pressure from his big firm practice, he’s constantly being pulled by work . You’ve also thrown yourself into your work like nobody’s business. Your career often serves as an escape in the independence it affords makes it worth it. Let’s face it. Money is power but that doesn’t mean you get the luxury of ignoring the other parts of your life. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Just don’t expect this guy to feel the empty space you may feel unless that’s what you want if you’re looking for love or to feel valued like most women whether they admitted or not you can find that start at home. I’m not casting judgment, but you need to seriously think this throw is it really right for you? What about you and Mark? You crave stability. Your heads in the sand. Mark’s head is up his ass too or you wouldn’t be feeling this way. Focus on the two of you. You’re in your marriage completely by choice not because of your history, family or money and image. You could easily support yourself if you wanted to.
Very profound speech, Mark said I hadn’t expected a compliment from him. I’d finally stopped spreading over what he didn’t say because he showed his love through what he did for me not by what he said my sense of feeling emotionally disconnected misunderstood, or resenting his lack of attention had vanished Mark‘s willingness to listen to me chatter away about anything was priceless and when he didn’t speak, he must have a good reason or when he didn’t indulge me with flattery the way JJ did. I was perfectly fine a silent rule evolved between us one that guaranteed I wouldn’t push him to be more effusive. I knew that he went above and beyond for me every day and I was grateful he was mine, and I was his the cement that found us was true love.
I was afraid that seeing JJ might stir up old feelings as I rehashed our lunch dates and walks together. I reminded myself that those were the fun times, but in an effort not to feel vulnerable I also remembered that this wasn’t the full scope of what a relationship really was.
I knew it was fine to hold a special place in my heart for JJ. He was a spectacular man on so many levels. I would always be grateful for the role. He played in my life and most of all how he opened my eyes to what was truly important to me and what I valued most. I finally understood what a lease meant when she said that it was a beautiful thing that a very special man had loved me. I wanted Mark to love me that way and I discovered that he did Mark and I had managed to find our way back to each other. the craving for a connection with JJ along with all the ambiguity and emotional turbulence was gone that was because I treasured Mark in our marriage. Never again would I take for granted the incredible life that we had built together.
Dressed to the nines, Christ was even mod attractive than I recalled. Rich chestnut brown hair cascades down her slim waist. Her busy hugging oatmeal cashmere sweater accentuated her curves. Long legs and beige Manolo Blahnik heels made her even taller. Perfect posture and matching diction added yo to the idea fundraising package. It was hard to believe she was a mother of two teenage children.
When Thad and I accumulated enough money, we gave back. We wrote checks to causes we believed in. It wasn’t just check-writing that mattered, either. It’s great to volunteer. I spent countless hours at the veterans administration hospital talking to vets. Her eyes sparkled and she beamed with pride.
Our commitment to philanthropy stemmed from our deep Christian father. We’re all one in spirit. One god. No matter what we have been given, it’s not really ours. We’re here simply to be good stewards of our fortune. That’s what we do — serve, either with money or by doing. How lucky for me that j get to do both.
Compared to all of marks angst and stress, JJ seemed light and airy, despite the fact that he was an extremely sophisticated, complex man. Just the thought of him was intoxicating.
A new hours later marks arms em eloped me. K felt his warmth through my silk nightgown, which he slipped over my head. He kissed me on the mouth, and then all over. Our lovemaking lasted a long time. Make-up sex without talking was a good way to end the disconnect of our non-conversation. I knew it wouldn’t make any of our real issues disappear, but it was a welcome reprieve.
He’s afraid he’s not being a good provider. Many men feel a sense of responsibility to protect and provide for those they love. This would include taking care of their wives financially regardless of whether she earns plenty.
Yes. I always thought he would take care of me. I know I’m perfectly capable of supporting myself but that’s not the point. Part of my attraction to mark was how driven and ambitious he was. He always made me feel safe. I lived that about him. Am I less of a modern woman?
Absolutely not. Wanting the comfort of knowing you’re taken care of is perfectly reasonable.
I don’t want you to think you’re alone. It’s not easy stuff like this goes on all the time your feelings are totally normal to have captured the heart of such a charismatic man is a beautiful thing in spite of it all I’m not saying you should act on it you know how I feel about Mark. He’s rare he loves and adores you Marriage isn’t perfect. You know that from what I know yours is a special one and he’s a keeper. You need to look closer at what you do have and then figure out what you want. Do what’s right for you. That’s what matters. It’s your decision but make sure you’re being sensible either way you should be flattered. Just don’t do anything rash promise me you’ll stay calm and do not tell any of this to Mark.
Elise was right how wonderful and thrilling to have the intentions of a passionate man like JJ and perhaps that should be enough. an exciting memory to hold onto.
It’s plain and simple you were looking for something that’s missing these things. Don’t just happen. It doesn’t work that way. See this as a sign post. Maybe you’re feeling lonely. After all Mark does travel a fair amount and has an extraordinary amount of pressure from his big firm practice, he’s constantly being pulled by work . You’ve also thrown yourself into your work like nobody’s business. Your career often serves as an escape in the independence it affords makes it worth it. Let’s face it. Money is power but that doesn’t mean you get the luxury of ignoring the other parts of your life. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Just don’t expect this guy to feel the empty space you may feel unless that’s what you want if you’re looking for love or to feel valued like most women whether they admitted or not you can find that start at home. I’m not casting judgment, but you need to seriously think this throw is it really right for you? What about you and Mark? You crave stability. Your heads in the sand. Mark’s head is up his ass too or you wouldn’t be feeling this way. Focus on the two of you. You’re in your marriage completely by choice not because of your history, family or money and image. You could easily support yourself if you wanted to.
Very profound speech, Mark said I hadn’t expected a compliment from him. I’d finally stopped spreading over what he didn’t say because he showed his love through what he did for me not by what he said my sense of feeling emotionally disconnected misunderstood, or resenting his lack of attention had vanished Mark‘s willingness to listen to me chatter away about anything was priceless and when he didn’t speak, he must have a good reason or when he didn’t indulge me with flattery the way JJ did. I was perfectly fine a silent rule evolved between us one that guaranteed I wouldn’t push him to be more effusive. I knew that he went above and beyond for me every day and I was grateful he was mine, and I was his the cement that found us was true love.
I was afraid that seeing JJ might stir up old feelings as I rehashed our lunch dates and walks together. I reminded myself that those were the fun times, but in an effort not to feel vulnerable I also remembered that this wasn’t the full scope of what a relationship really was.
I knew it was fine to hold a special place in my heart for JJ. He was a spectacular man on so many levels. I would always be grateful for the role. He played in my life and most of all how he opened my eyes to what was truly important to me and what I valued most. I finally understood what a lease meant when she said that it was a beautiful thing that a very special man had loved me. I wanted Mark to love me that way and I discovered that he did Mark and I had managed to find our way back to each other. the craving for a connection with JJ along with all the ambiguity and emotional turbulence was gone that was because I treasured Mark in our marriage. Never again would I take for granted the incredible life that we had built together.
January 2, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
After struggling to get through this book for months, I decided to finally push through and give it a go. I must say, if it wasn't a Netgalley copy it would have been a dnf for me.
Having read the author's accomplishments, I expected a lot more substance from her. She is a very well educated, successful woman, but her debut novel seems to be written by someone else. I'm not sure what she was going for, but it wasn't a mystery nor a literary fiction novel.
It contained lots of fluff, and the characters lacked depth. For intelligent, independent, career-oriented women, their dialogue was very superficial. I guess if you're looking to lose yourself in a book without getting too involved, give it a go. But otherwise, you can probably skip this one.
You can read my other reviews from this month here:
https://booksformind.com/november-202...
After struggling to get through this book for months, I decided to finally push through and give it a go. I must say, if it wasn't a Netgalley copy it would have been a dnf for me.
Having read the author's accomplishments, I expected a lot more substance from her. She is a very well educated, successful woman, but her debut novel seems to be written by someone else. I'm not sure what she was going for, but it wasn't a mystery nor a literary fiction novel.
It contained lots of fluff, and the characters lacked depth. For intelligent, independent, career-oriented women, their dialogue was very superficial. I guess if you're looking to lose yourself in a book without getting too involved, give it a go. But otherwise, you can probably skip this one.
You can read my other reviews from this month here:
https://booksformind.com/november-202...
April 21, 2023
"Money is power."
With a mix of the Real Housewives series, the soap opera Dynasty and the old TV show Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous debut author Diane Bergner takes us into the politics and "affairs" of fundraising with the ultra rich in the often hysterical, mysterious and even murderous Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club.
Julia never enjoyed being a lawyer and makes a major career change taking a position at the prestigious performing arts center The Addison Center in the fundraising department. She ditches her courtroom suits for high heels and gowns setting up galas for the rich to donate to the arts and pay for a position on their board of directors. What she didn't expect was the backstabbing, stealing, illicit affairs and a murder!
Fortunately to get through it all she has her ladies who meet for lunch, okay it's more drinks, Prosecco is practically a character, and get each other through the drama.
This book is the perfect beach read with enticing characters. There's Julia's boss having an affair with a married donor, Julia's husband spending nights at the office with the new beautiful younger lawyer and then there's the two office girls; at least one of them seems to be sabotaging Julia's work. Let's not forget the older married Argentinian billionaire who has his eyes, and other body parts, on Julia. She is definitely enjoying the attention as she says, "...I wanted to be wanted."
So make a cocktail, put your feet up and read how rich couples are,"...too rich to get divorced," how the more they donate the more they demand, and how fierce smart women who lunch together can outlast them all.
I received a free copy of this book from #katieandbreypa via #NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
With a mix of the Real Housewives series, the soap opera Dynasty and the old TV show Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous debut author Diane Bergner takes us into the politics and "affairs" of fundraising with the ultra rich in the often hysterical, mysterious and even murderous Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club.
Julia never enjoyed being a lawyer and makes a major career change taking a position at the prestigious performing arts center The Addison Center in the fundraising department. She ditches her courtroom suits for high heels and gowns setting up galas for the rich to donate to the arts and pay for a position on their board of directors. What she didn't expect was the backstabbing, stealing, illicit affairs and a murder!
Fortunately to get through it all she has her ladies who meet for lunch, okay it's more drinks, Prosecco is practically a character, and get each other through the drama.
This book is the perfect beach read with enticing characters. There's Julia's boss having an affair with a married donor, Julia's husband spending nights at the office with the new beautiful younger lawyer and then there's the two office girls; at least one of them seems to be sabotaging Julia's work. Let's not forget the older married Argentinian billionaire who has his eyes, and other body parts, on Julia. She is definitely enjoying the attention as she says, "...I wanted to be wanted."
So make a cocktail, put your feet up and read how rich couples are,"...too rich to get divorced," how the more they donate the more they demand, and how fierce smart women who lunch together can outlast them all.
I received a free copy of this book from #katieandbreypa via #NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 13, 2023
🥂Summary🥂
Julia left the world of law to take in fundraising for the Addison Center, the performing arts center in Royal Coconut Beach. As she is thrust into the lives of Florida’s upper class, Julia navigates someone seemingly sabotaging her at work, a rich, attractive man’s advances, catching her boss sleeping with a donor, and her husband pulling away. Fortunately, Julia has some girl friends to meet with for lunch to help her find her way.
🥂Review🥂
A mix of mystery and women’s lit, Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club has the makings of a perfect summer beach read. It’s light and fun.
The premise was good, and definitely hooked me. I do feel like it was written in a very matter of fact tone. The story was layed out but didn’t have any strong emotion. The book felt like an example from writing classes of telling when they should have shown. It was factual with no feelings behind it. The mystery felt a bit anticlimactic. It was pretty straightforward while also being totally crazy. I wish the Lunch Club had a bigger role. I would have loved more of the female friendships on a deeper level.
Overall, a fun, easy breezy read, perfect for a day at the beach or poolside. I would have given it 2.5 stars, so I rounded up for this review.
Julia left the world of law to take in fundraising for the Addison Center, the performing arts center in Royal Coconut Beach. As she is thrust into the lives of Florida’s upper class, Julia navigates someone seemingly sabotaging her at work, a rich, attractive man’s advances, catching her boss sleeping with a donor, and her husband pulling away. Fortunately, Julia has some girl friends to meet with for lunch to help her find her way.
🥂Review🥂
A mix of mystery and women’s lit, Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club has the makings of a perfect summer beach read. It’s light and fun.
The premise was good, and definitely hooked me. I do feel like it was written in a very matter of fact tone. The story was layed out but didn’t have any strong emotion. The book felt like an example from writing classes of telling when they should have shown. It was factual with no feelings behind it. The mystery felt a bit anticlimactic. It was pretty straightforward while also being totally crazy. I wish the Lunch Club had a bigger role. I would have loved more of the female friendships on a deeper level.
Overall, a fun, easy breezy read, perfect for a day at the beach or poolside. I would have given it 2.5 stars, so I rounded up for this review.
June 3, 2023
Julia Wild trades in her legal career for a job as a high society fundraiser at the Addison Performing Arts Center in glitzy Royal Coconut Beach. The deeper Julia dives into her job, the more she can’t resist the glamorous pull of the high society life style. But Julia had to be careful—her marriage is on shaky grounds, and someone at work seems to be sabotaging her. Good thing she has a close-knit group of friends to keep her grounded.
Thank you so much @netgalley for the advance copy! The premise of this book was exciting, but I really wasn’t all that impressed by it. It felt like nothing happened, and the one exciting plot point lasted about five minutes and was resolved way too quickly. Julia’s character was super difficult to sympathize with for me; she spent so much time complaining about her husband’s lack of attention to her while not ever trying to truly talk to him about anything or stop working for five seconds to realize that she was also part of the problem. The women’s friendships were a nice touch, but overall this one just wasn’t it for me.
Thank you so much @netgalley for the advance copy! The premise of this book was exciting, but I really wasn’t all that impressed by it. It felt like nothing happened, and the one exciting plot point lasted about five minutes and was resolved way too quickly. Julia’s character was super difficult to sympathize with for me; she spent so much time complaining about her husband’s lack of attention to her while not ever trying to truly talk to him about anything or stop working for five seconds to realize that she was also part of the problem. The women’s friendships were a nice touch, but overall this one just wasn’t it for me.
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April 18, 2023I was lucky enough to get an ARC for this book which I really enjoyed. The story (which ironically seems to mirror the author's professional life but just cannot be her story, has it all...A little bit of the Devil Wears Prada, some suspense, romance, real-life challenges between husband and wife, and along the way, a good amount of humor. The main character, Julia, is a super competent, attorney-turned-high society fundraiser who changes careers and while she is navigating it really well, her inner voice resonated with me - confident on the outside but very human on the inside, not always confident and sometimes snarky - capturing the sometimes not so nice instincts that make us who we are. I also valued the friendship among women who in some ways we can let down our guard in ways we can't do with our partners. That was very real.
This was just a fun read - really enjoyable.
This was just a fun read - really enjoyable.
April 23, 2023
Thank you Netgalley, Meryl Moss Media Group, and Diane Bergner for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This book was not exactly what I expected but in a good way. Julia is a successful attorney when she decides to work in development for a prestigious organization. I loved the women Julia meets along the way & their prosecco lunch club where they talk about everything from love to careers.
I do think the title of this book could be shorter. I’m having trouble remembering it! I also think there could have been more detail about what was going on with Julia’s husband, Mark, but this did keep me guessing!
Overall, I would recommend this book for a nice, easy read, although there are a couple of suspenseful parts, but not too intense!
I gave this 3.5 stars!
This book was not exactly what I expected but in a good way. Julia is a successful attorney when she decides to work in development for a prestigious organization. I loved the women Julia meets along the way & their prosecco lunch club where they talk about everything from love to careers.
I do think the title of this book could be shorter. I’m having trouble remembering it! I also think there could have been more detail about what was going on with Julia’s husband, Mark, but this did keep me guessing!
Overall, I would recommend this book for a nice, easy read, although there are a couple of suspenseful parts, but not too intense!
I gave this 3.5 stars!
April 22, 2023
Julia Wild and her husband Mark end up moving to Florida from New York for Marks job. Julia is a lawyer and decides that she needs a change and starts working in the fundraising department at the Addison Center. Mark is busy with his job and it seems like it’s not going great at work for him. During this time Julia has formed a relationship with a donor JJ. Julia shares her thoughts about her job and her marriage with a group of women that she lunches with who are successful in their own ways.
I wanted to really like this book but there were some triggers for me. Julia seemed a bit whiny about what was going on in her marriage instead of discussing it with her husband.
Thank you #NetGalley for the advanced copy
I wanted to really like this book but there were some triggers for me. Julia seemed a bit whiny about what was going on in her marriage instead of discussing it with her husband.
Thank you #NetGalley for the advanced copy
February 28, 2024
After reading a succession of mysteries and psychological thrillers, I was ready for a “lighter” read.
Julia Wilde is a happily married former lawyer who now works as a fundraiser for a performing arts center. High society at its highest level and the money to prove it are Julia’s donors and all the gossip that goes with it.
With “The Rich and Famous” and a little bit of “Peyton Place,” Julia is drawn into their world, especially when her workaholic husband fails to give her the attention she needs.
A lighthearted novel and a good debut book by Diane Berger with a little mystery, the power of strong relationships between women friends and a second chance at love was enjoyable. Thank you Netgalley and Meryl Moss Media Group for an early copy. This review is my own opinion.
Julia Wilde is a happily married former lawyer who now works as a fundraiser for a performing arts center. High society at its highest level and the money to prove it are Julia’s donors and all the gossip that goes with it.
With “The Rich and Famous” and a little bit of “Peyton Place,” Julia is drawn into their world, especially when her workaholic husband fails to give her the attention she needs.
A lighthearted novel and a good debut book by Diane Berger with a little mystery, the power of strong relationships between women friends and a second chance at love was enjoyable. Thank you Netgalley and Meryl Moss Media Group for an early copy. This review is my own opinion.
March 14, 2024
I began reading this book with an open mind and you could say even a kind of positive bias, however the more I delved into the plot and world of our protagonist; the more I found myself disappointed and frustrated with her actions. Both love interests were extremely unlikeable and the whole plot of her marriage was ended quite badly, with the problem and issues between the characters not being discussed, this lack of communication was a blemish in the supposedly better pairing. As for JJ, our other love interest; while I appreciated that he was Latino and U think we should have more characters like that, I couldn’t help but feel creeped out by his actions and age gap. As a summary this was a book that had the characteristics and the chance to be a great one but it was poorly executed
October 7, 2025
I began reading this book with an open mind and you could say even a kind of positive bias, however the more I delved into the plot and world of our protagonist; the more I found myself disappointed and frustrated with her actions. Both love interests were extremely unlikeable and the whole plot of her marriage was ended quite badly, with the problem and issues between the characters not being discussed, this lack of communication was a blemish in the supposedly better pairing. As for JJ, our other love interest; while I appreciated that he was Latino and U think we should have more characters like that, I couldn’t help but feel creeped out by his actions and age gap. As a summary this was a book that had the characteristics and the chance to be a great one but it was poorly executed
April 19, 2023
This was a light and fluffy beachy type read about an ex-lawyer turned fundraising guru who finds herself immersed in the lives of the filthy rich. The lines of reality are blurred, the cocktails are flowing, the large donations are pouring in, and with it all the drama and gossip of high society. The drama is real, the gossip is fast to spread, and there is even a little murder mystery thrown in. Not my usual pace of a book but it was a nice break from the dark and twisted that is my usual go to. Perfect timing for the summer season coming up. If you are looking for that pool side or beach read, I recommend picking this one up!
May 12, 2023
I loved this book!!! I went into it half heartedly but went ahead on the recommendation of my sister in law who raved about it. She was right! I thought the book would be banal and stereotypical. Instead, the characters were exceedingly well developed and the story line moved at a very good pace and was interesting, creative and full of suspense. The world of raising money and wealth in Palm Beach was spot on and the struggles endured by the main character, Julia Wild, were so well written that you could really feel what was happening! I thought this was an excellent debut novel and I hope Ms. Bergner writes something else for us to read soon!! Really well done and worth the read!!!
September 24, 2023
I absolutely could not put this book down. I read it while on vacation and just loved sitting outside and catching up with Julia Wild!! Her life was so full of fun, fashion (which I love) and romance that I had to keep going. I too can relate to her profession as I am a philanthropy professional is South Florida and could identify with Julia's stories! I love the Addison Center which in So Fla is known as The Kravis Center. It was the perfect read to smile with and to romance with all at the same time! Thank you for introducing me to Ms. Bergner's book and I am sure there will be a sequel to this one (I can't wait)!
November 7, 2023
I've never seen the rarefied, well-to-do world in Diane Bergner's ROYAL COCONUT BEACH LUNCH CLUB, but I feel like I've had a seat at the table. The twists and turns and strange turnabouts are familiar to anyone in fundraising and to chasing the big donors -- or paid attention to the savage, tricky, occasionally happy surprises in the torrent of that world. It took me awhile to get into it, but when I did, it read fast -- well done, Ms. Berger! For me, I deeply enjoy reading about women in business -- whatever the business -- and how they cope with the inevitable disasters. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.
April 14, 2023
Thank you NetGalley, Diane Bergner and Meryl Moss Media Group for the copy of Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club. This is my personal review.
This book was a fun ride in the life of Julia Wild. She gave up the job with a law firm to begin working for a non-profit as their Fundraising Coordinator.
She now leads a life of entertaining many to raise funds and has her mixing with some mega rich people living in high society.
The characters and their stories were so well woven together that the story just flowed off the pages. This is a perfect beach read that you will enjoy from cover to cover.
This book was a fun ride in the life of Julia Wild. She gave up the job with a law firm to begin working for a non-profit as their Fundraising Coordinator.
She now leads a life of entertaining many to raise funds and has her mixing with some mega rich people living in high society.
The characters and their stories were so well woven together that the story just flowed off the pages. This is a perfect beach read that you will enjoy from cover to cover.
August 21, 2023
This book took me forever to read! I don't know what it was about but I really didn't like it. 2 stars is generous for me. I think the number one thing I had a hard time with was how much jumping around there was with things. One minute we are hearing about some lost check and the next the main character is sleeping with her husband. It just felt like too much rambling. I was excited in the beginning when we got to hear some juicy work place drama but then it just fizzled out for me. Not sure this is one I would recommend to others. I received this book for my honest review.
April 22, 2023
I thought the premise for this book was super fun and it would have been a perfect beach read. I just couldn't connect with the story or the characters. For me, the writing was just too surface level. There wasn't much emotion or development throughout. It was however pretty fast paced.
Can't say I would recommend but I wouldn't warn anyone against it. It just wasn't for me.
Thanks for Netgalley for this ARC
Can't say I would recommend but I wouldn't warn anyone against it. It just wasn't for me.
Thanks for Netgalley for this ARC
April 29, 2023
I picked this book because the name and cover are so appealing. Then I read the description… This was such a cute book with a well paced plot and strong characters. I really enjoyed it. I found that it was fast paced and had me from beginning to end. This debut book from Diane Bergner is a must read. Highly recommend.
Thank you NetGalley and Meryl Moss Media Group, Meridian Editions for allowing me to read this Arc for my honest opinion.
Thank you NetGalley and Meryl Moss Media Group, Meridian Editions for allowing me to read this Arc for my honest opinion.
June 16, 2023
This is a very easy summer reading book. So much so, I read this sat out in the garden in the sun drinking a bottle of cider. This is the first book I have read by this author, after reading this. I will absolutely be checking more of her work out.
This is an entertaining beach read mystery type of story. The characters where very well adapted and thought about. Not to deep but it was easy to understand and follow.
I was entertained. I will be recommending this book to others!
This is an entertaining beach read mystery type of story. The characters where very well adapted and thought about. Not to deep but it was easy to understand and follow.
I was entertained. I will be recommending this book to others!
February 17, 2024
I really loved this book! I found myself identifying with the main character. Some intrigue, some romance, some decisions to be made. Several very charismatic characters. This compelling story pushes you to discover what each character is going to do next. The stories are expertly intertwined. This storyline takes you behind closed doors into the world of the rich and philanthropic in the fascinating setting of what goes on in one of the largest performing arts centers in the country.
September 11, 2023
Thank you Net Galley for allowing me to receive this book for an honest review.
I looked foward to this books o much because it felt like the scandals in Palm Beach.
I wanted to be a fly on the wall.
It was a very slow read until the end it picked up.
If your willing to invest the time in reading this book then give it a try.
ortunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
I looked foward to this books o much because it felt like the scandals in Palm Beach.
I wanted to be a fly on the wall.
It was a very slow read until the end it picked up.
If your willing to invest the time in reading this book then give it a try.
ortunity to read this in exchange for my honest opinion.
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