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Serenity Bay #1
Summer at Serenity Bay
What happens when you send a city girl to a tiny seaside village?
Career girl Chloe Walsh is in need of some TLC. Her boyfriend was unfaithful and her job was at a dead end.
She’s leaving London to get away from it all and visiting her best friend Roisin in Serenity Bay.
But little does she know that her kooky friend has a master plan to breathe some life into the sleepy seaside village through a new wellness retreat. And she needs Chloe’s expertise.
Sparks fly with hunky Andy from the Surf Shack when he offers a helping hand. But Chloe swears not to be distracted by his sparkling eyes and perfect abs . . .
Then she attracts the attention of a major TV company, and before she knows it a clique of celebrities descend on Serenity Bay to film a new reality TV show.
Will the scandalous flings be left to the celebs, or could Chloe find some romance of her own?
Career girl Chloe Walsh is in need of some TLC. Her boyfriend was unfaithful and her job was at a dead end.
She’s leaving London to get away from it all and visiting her best friend Roisin in Serenity Bay.
But little does she know that her kooky friend has a master plan to breathe some life into the sleepy seaside village through a new wellness retreat. And she needs Chloe’s expertise.
Sparks fly with hunky Andy from the Surf Shack when he offers a helping hand. But Chloe swears not to be distracted by his sparkling eyes and perfect abs . . .
Then she attracts the attention of a major TV company, and before she knows it a clique of celebrities descend on Serenity Bay to film a new reality TV show.
Will the scandalous flings be left to the celebs, or could Chloe find some romance of her own?
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2020
201 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Helen Bridgett
14 books25 followersHelen has always loved books and always loved writing. One year she decided her New Year’s resolution would be “Write a novel to give as a Christmas present”. She spent the year writing and The Mercury Travel Club was born.
Helen hails from the North East When not writing, Helen can usually be found walking or drinking wine – not usually at the same time.
Like many people, Helen believes that the music you grow up with as a teenager stays with you for the whole of your life. Being a child of 80’s rock, when she hears the opening riff to Sweet Child of Mine, she cannot be held responsible for her actions!
Helen hails from the North East When not writing, Helen can usually be found walking or drinking wine – not usually at the same time.
Like many people, Helen believes that the music you grow up with as a teenager stays with you for the whole of your life. Being a child of 80’s rock, when she hears the opening riff to Sweet Child of Mine, she cannot be held responsible for her actions!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 26, 2020
When Chloe Walsh lost her job and her boyfriend in the same day, she left London and went to the seaside village of Kyrrby where her best friend Roisin lived with her grandmother at the family farm. Chloe needed some TLC before getting back into the land of living again. When Roisin confided her dream in Chloe, they decided to see if they could make that dream a reality. With their IT expert at their side, they named the farm Serenity Bay and set about turning it into a health retreat where nature would lend a helping hand.
The beauty of the village and its surrounds and the friendliness of the locals soon had the adrenalin flowing and before Roisin knew it, they had their first booking. With Andy teaching surfing, Roisin leading yoga, long walks and bike rides along the headland and the beaches and Roisin’s gran baking her delicious food, the weekend was a huge success. They were on their way – but would the celebrities who were due next make or break the dream? Would Serenity Bay wind its magic through their guests?
Summer at Serenity Bay was my first by author Helen Bridgett and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light, entertaining and lots of fun, I sped through the pages – deciding along the way that I really want to visit Serenity Bay’s health retreat! A great read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The beauty of the village and its surrounds and the friendliness of the locals soon had the adrenalin flowing and before Roisin knew it, they had their first booking. With Andy teaching surfing, Roisin leading yoga, long walks and bike rides along the headland and the beaches and Roisin’s gran baking her delicious food, the weekend was a huge success. They were on their way – but would the celebrities who were due next make or break the dream? Would Serenity Bay wind its magic through their guests?
Summer at Serenity Bay was my first by author Helen Bridgett and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Light, entertaining and lots of fun, I sped through the pages – deciding along the way that I really want to visit Serenity Bay’s health retreat! A great read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to ChocLit Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2020
Dreams were turned reality at Serenity Bay, and it was author Helen Bridgett who could pull this magic off by churning out a tale of friendship.
Chloe was all done in by life. She decided to move in with her best friend Roisin to Serenity Bay. When she got to know her friend’s dream, it took all their energy to convert it to reality. The girls wanted to turn the farm into a nature’s retreat. But then a group of celebrities descended on them to shoot their reality series. It was absolute chaos.
My first book by this author, I was soothed by the idea of the wellness retreat. I needed some virtual TLC. The idea of celebrities with their demands tickled me pink. I needed that humor. The writing had great atmosphere, landscapes were described beautifully. I needed to escape in it. The people of the village were friendly and kicked in to help, after a few skirmishes. I needed to be surrounded by them.
This was an easy beach read with warm eclectic characters set in a small village where the magic of peace and calm slowly permeated into all. The celebrities did turn the story with their demands, but that just added a spice to the flavor.
I loved how the author could make her characters come alive. Chloe was fun to know. Friendship was highlighted beautifully in this delightful, feel good tale.
Time sped by and the afternoon turned as I moved through the pages, savoring the scenes until the end. A captivating beach read
Chloe was all done in by life. She decided to move in with her best friend Roisin to Serenity Bay. When she got to know her friend’s dream, it took all their energy to convert it to reality. The girls wanted to turn the farm into a nature’s retreat. But then a group of celebrities descended on them to shoot their reality series. It was absolute chaos.
My first book by this author, I was soothed by the idea of the wellness retreat. I needed some virtual TLC. The idea of celebrities with their demands tickled me pink. I needed that humor. The writing had great atmosphere, landscapes were described beautifully. I needed to escape in it. The people of the village were friendly and kicked in to help, after a few skirmishes. I needed to be surrounded by them.
This was an easy beach read with warm eclectic characters set in a small village where the magic of peace and calm slowly permeated into all. The celebrities did turn the story with their demands, but that just added a spice to the flavor.
I loved how the author could make her characters come alive. Chloe was fun to know. Friendship was highlighted beautifully in this delightful, feel good tale.
Time sped by and the afternoon turned as I moved through the pages, savoring the scenes until the end. A captivating beach read
July 14, 2020
Sign me up for the Serenity Bay Wellness Retreat!! I adored my time with these characters and in such a wonderful setting - and hands off Andy the surfer! He's mine!!
Chloe is the central character in this book and she's looking for a new outlook on life. She's fled London after problems with her job and her ex, and she finds herself back with her bestie, Roisin, in Northumberland. Far away from the hustle and bustle of city life that had been central to her working and personal life, so taking to a quieter way of life is a bit of a battle!
But she feels at home with Roisin and her nan and soon finds herself helping them out in setting up a Wellness retreat to try and revive the area they live in and earn some well needed money. It gives Chloe that creative buzz again and she finds herself jumping right in with all aspects of it and even using her London contacts to find willing customers!
This was such a relaxing and inspiring read! The community, even despite a little resistance from some, were a great support throughout the process as they could see how it could improve their lives and incomes. Things never run smoothly, even more so when a bunch of celebs show up to film a reality show! I would totally watch a series that featured wellness retreats like this!! Seeing how getting out in nature, being creative, living more simply can help your mind, body and soul is a lesson to us all! But with celebrities comes ego's and diva behaviour so things do take a dark turn with the police getting involved!
I loved the friendship between Chloe and Roisin and loved every single minute of my time in Serenity Bay! I hope we get to go back and visit again soon!!
Chloe is the central character in this book and she's looking for a new outlook on life. She's fled London after problems with her job and her ex, and she finds herself back with her bestie, Roisin, in Northumberland. Far away from the hustle and bustle of city life that had been central to her working and personal life, so taking to a quieter way of life is a bit of a battle!
But she feels at home with Roisin and her nan and soon finds herself helping them out in setting up a Wellness retreat to try and revive the area they live in and earn some well needed money. It gives Chloe that creative buzz again and she finds herself jumping right in with all aspects of it and even using her London contacts to find willing customers!
This was such a relaxing and inspiring read! The community, even despite a little resistance from some, were a great support throughout the process as they could see how it could improve their lives and incomes. Things never run smoothly, even more so when a bunch of celebs show up to film a reality show! I would totally watch a series that featured wellness retreats like this!! Seeing how getting out in nature, being creative, living more simply can help your mind, body and soul is a lesson to us all! But with celebrities comes ego's and diva behaviour so things do take a dark turn with the police getting involved!
I loved the friendship between Chloe and Roisin and loved every single minute of my time in Serenity Bay! I hope we get to go back and visit again soon!!
July 14, 2020
Make sure you have time once you start this book, because I for sure wanted to keep on reading like there was no tomorrow.
Grab yourself a cup of tea (or coffee) or a glass of wine (or soda), disconnect the doorbell and shut down your computer and phone and chillax.
Chloe and her friends will take you on a journey to Serenity Bay, show you how you can turn a old farm into a retreat with some TLC and bring new life to the little, cozy seaside village. Or at least that’s the plan, but there are always some people who have different ideas and throw a spanner in the works.
Will Chloe succeed anyway or does she have to throw in the towel?
A great and fluently written story that entertained me a lot. 5 stars
Thank you, Helen Bridgett and Ruby Fiction
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Grab yourself a cup of tea (or coffee) or a glass of wine (or soda), disconnect the doorbell and shut down your computer and phone and chillax.
Chloe and her friends will take you on a journey to Serenity Bay, show you how you can turn a old farm into a retreat with some TLC and bring new life to the little, cozy seaside village. Or at least that’s the plan, but there are always some people who have different ideas and throw a spanner in the works.
Will Chloe succeed anyway or does she have to throw in the towel?
A great and fluently written story that entertained me a lot. 5 stars
Thank you, Helen Bridgett and Ruby Fiction
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
October 6, 2023
A sweet story in a lovely setting.
January 22, 2021
This is a perfect summer read, set in the kind of beautiful place that makes you wish you could visit it for real. The best part is when a TV show is filmed there, as the celebrities taking part in it bring fun, trouble and twists, but before that I also enjoyed following Chloe the "city girl" as she helped her friend launching her wellness retreat (where the TV show is set later) and met everyone in the village (including Andy the "handsome local").
In addition to the entertainment of reading this story, you might even find ideas of things you'd like to do to improve your wellness while having fun, just like the characters.
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day.
In addition to the entertainment of reading this story, you might even find ideas of things you'd like to do to improve your wellness while having fun, just like the characters.
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day.
July 16, 2020
How on earth have Helen Bridgett’s books passed me by for so long? This is definetly another time where I have been walking around with my eyes shut, now I have discovered this amazing authors book I fully intend to read as many as possible.
After fleeing London in heartbreak, Chloe heads to Northumberland to stay with her good friend; Roisin, where she fully intends to have a breather, take a break as she evaluates what she is to do next, and what better place to do this then in a quiet little village by the sea? But, what she doesn’t know – yet, is that her eccentric friend has been working hard to turn her grandmother little farm into a wellness retreat, which is where her savvy advertising executive friend comes in if there is one person who can make their new retreat a success and put them on the map then it is Chloe. Ah, well Chloe you will have to take your breather from the fast life another time and things are going to become very busy.
But this is exactly what Chloe needs and she throws herself into this new and exciting venture, after gaining full support of the local’s which include some interesting personalities and with that it’s all go as Chloe secures secures a contact with a TV company who want to make reality show and Serenity bay could be just the location they are looking for. But what Chloe and the residents don’t expect is just how topsy-turvy life turns out to be once the celebrities have landed.
I love this book, it’s the perfect sunny, summery feel-good read, its cheerful, and inspiring with a wonderful message of how important true friendships are as well as if you want something, work your socks off and your dreams will come true.
I would absolutely love to take a trip to Serenity Bay and relax in the wellness retreat, this place is just so happy, relaxing and full of friendship and laughs with it wide range of outdoor activities and exclusive arts and craft workshops there is something for everyone in the bay.
I loved each and every one of the character’s, they are a quirky, eclectic, eccentric, friendly, down-to-earth bunch who can be a little stuck in their ways at times but they are a good bunch who are very welcoming and open to new idea’s, I would love to be apart of their little community.
Roisin is one of the best friends that any woman can have, and I would be chuffed to bits to have her in my corner. True, she is a little kooky and she goes through life like a bull in a china shop but she has a heart of pure gold, she cares for those she loves and wants everyone to be happy, she is definitely my favourite caracter…as well as delicious Andy…ouh, la, la!!
Overall, I cannot say a single bad thing about this, I loved the simplistic yet originally delightful plot, the characters a great bunch of personalities who are great fun to get to know, and i am hoping there will be more stories coming out of the Bay featuring these wonderful characters. To me the real star of the entire boom is the place its self; Serenity bay is a beautiful, tranquil, welcoming and charming little village,
After fleeing London in heartbreak, Chloe heads to Northumberland to stay with her good friend; Roisin, where she fully intends to have a breather, take a break as she evaluates what she is to do next, and what better place to do this then in a quiet little village by the sea? But, what she doesn’t know – yet, is that her eccentric friend has been working hard to turn her grandmother little farm into a wellness retreat, which is where her savvy advertising executive friend comes in if there is one person who can make their new retreat a success and put them on the map then it is Chloe. Ah, well Chloe you will have to take your breather from the fast life another time and things are going to become very busy.
But this is exactly what Chloe needs and she throws herself into this new and exciting venture, after gaining full support of the local’s which include some interesting personalities and with that it’s all go as Chloe secures secures a contact with a TV company who want to make reality show and Serenity bay could be just the location they are looking for. But what Chloe and the residents don’t expect is just how topsy-turvy life turns out to be once the celebrities have landed.
I love this book, it’s the perfect sunny, summery feel-good read, its cheerful, and inspiring with a wonderful message of how important true friendships are as well as if you want something, work your socks off and your dreams will come true.
I would absolutely love to take a trip to Serenity Bay and relax in the wellness retreat, this place is just so happy, relaxing and full of friendship and laughs with it wide range of outdoor activities and exclusive arts and craft workshops there is something for everyone in the bay.
I loved each and every one of the character’s, they are a quirky, eclectic, eccentric, friendly, down-to-earth bunch who can be a little stuck in their ways at times but they are a good bunch who are very welcoming and open to new idea’s, I would love to be apart of their little community.
Roisin is one of the best friends that any woman can have, and I would be chuffed to bits to have her in my corner. True, she is a little kooky and she goes through life like a bull in a china shop but she has a heart of pure gold, she cares for those she loves and wants everyone to be happy, she is definitely my favourite caracter…as well as delicious Andy…ouh, la, la!!
Overall, I cannot say a single bad thing about this, I loved the simplistic yet originally delightful plot, the characters a great bunch of personalities who are great fun to get to know, and i am hoping there will be more stories coming out of the Bay featuring these wonderful characters. To me the real star of the entire boom is the place its self; Serenity bay is a beautiful, tranquil, welcoming and charming little village,
July 14, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
At a time, for many of us, when that Summer getaway vacation just isn’t a possibility right now – here’s a delightful escape that won’t endanger anything beyond your schedule as you get lost in the pages of ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘.
Since her life wasn’t working quite as she expected, Chloe had no trouble at all in leaving the bright city lights behind to come to the aid of her friend in a quiet, seaside village where life certainly must be less hectic than she’s been experiencing lately. Well, that might normally be true except when Roisin is turning her family farmhouse into a wellness center and wants Chloe’s help to turn Serenity Bay into a sought after resort atmosphere small village where people come for the calm, the fun, the sea breezes, and the wellness center. Everyone in the village is behind the idea — but they might not have expected the reality of their sleepy village becoming overrun by celebrities or the reality show that is now filming at Roisin’s wellness center and the village. The end result is full of the unexpected, unseen twists, and not everyone is exactly as they first appeared to be.
I had such fun with ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘. In fact, if it weren’t fictional and ‘across the pond’ for me I’d be quite tempted to spend a few weeks in this charming village full of interesting and quirky residents. As it is, I spent an evening (and maybe past my bedtime) simply enjoying Chloe, Roisin, and all the people who either live in or have descended upon Serenity Bay with far different goals in mind beyond a few restful days or a competition that not everyone involved is taking seriously. There are some surprises and twists that I won’t get into for I will not spoil your enjoyment (or discovery) – but I did enjoy every moment spent in this village and would love to make a return visit one day.
If you need an escape, love the craziness of reality shows, enjoy a small town/village feel, and perhaps a touch of unexpected romance then you should be picking up ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘ right now. I definitely laughed out loud, got annoyed at people, loved the wellness tips, and was captured by the feel of this delightful location. I had a blast, and I’m betting you would, too. Go on, check it out for yourself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher ChocLit/Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
At a time, for many of us, when that Summer getaway vacation just isn’t a possibility right now – here’s a delightful escape that won’t endanger anything beyond your schedule as you get lost in the pages of ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘.
Since her life wasn’t working quite as she expected, Chloe had no trouble at all in leaving the bright city lights behind to come to the aid of her friend in a quiet, seaside village where life certainly must be less hectic than she’s been experiencing lately. Well, that might normally be true except when Roisin is turning her family farmhouse into a wellness center and wants Chloe’s help to turn Serenity Bay into a sought after resort atmosphere small village where people come for the calm, the fun, the sea breezes, and the wellness center. Everyone in the village is behind the idea — but they might not have expected the reality of their sleepy village becoming overrun by celebrities or the reality show that is now filming at Roisin’s wellness center and the village. The end result is full of the unexpected, unseen twists, and not everyone is exactly as they first appeared to be.
I had such fun with ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘. In fact, if it weren’t fictional and ‘across the pond’ for me I’d be quite tempted to spend a few weeks in this charming village full of interesting and quirky residents. As it is, I spent an evening (and maybe past my bedtime) simply enjoying Chloe, Roisin, and all the people who either live in or have descended upon Serenity Bay with far different goals in mind beyond a few restful days or a competition that not everyone involved is taking seriously. There are some surprises and twists that I won’t get into for I will not spoil your enjoyment (or discovery) – but I did enjoy every moment spent in this village and would love to make a return visit one day.
If you need an escape, love the craziness of reality shows, enjoy a small town/village feel, and perhaps a touch of unexpected romance then you should be picking up ‘Summer at Serenity Bay‘ right now. I definitely laughed out loud, got annoyed at people, loved the wellness tips, and was captured by the feel of this delightful location. I had a blast, and I’m betting you would, too. Go on, check it out for yourself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher ChocLit/Ruby Fiction. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
July 12, 2020
Summer at Serenity Bay – doesn’t it just sound wonderful? Well, having read the book, I can tell you that if Serenity Bay was real, I’d be there like a shot! Today, It’s publication day for the book and I’m sharing my review as well as a Q&A with the author.
Serenity Bay Wellness Spa is the Roisin’s dream business which she is just starting to make reality. In an attempt to boost awareness of the retreat, her advertising executive friend Chloe manages to get a television company to sign up to record a reality TV show there. Six celebrities will come to Serenity Bay while six celebrities will go to Switzerland. The show will try to prove whether natural or scientific methods make the most difference to your overall health and well-being. Chloe and Roisin hope that the celebrities will love with Serenity Bay and all it has to offer as much as they do.
I really want to go to the wellness retreat or spa or whatever you want to call Serenity Bay. It sounds just idyllic. I loved the whole ethos of good home cooking, enjoying the outdoors, appreciating nature and getting involved with activities like making your own scented candles, chocolate making workshops, nature courses, yoga and watersports .
The characters were just fabulous too and not just the main quartet of Roisin, Chloe, Heather and Andy. They were a real mixed bag of quirky characters who I became very fond of. Maggie, the pub landlord, was someone who I really liked, a real character.
As you might imagine, it doesn’t all go smoothly especially with the grumpy celebrities not really embracing the concept initially. There were lots of funny parts here as their competing egos took over. Sometimes though it seemed that just one thing after another went wrong and it seemed like Serenity Bay might not work its magic on them too.
I loved my visit to Serenity Bay and, as I said, wish it was a real place I could visit. Helen Bridgett has created some great characters and written a warmly funny and really engaging book, with a rather lovely love story too. I highly recommend this for a bit of escapist fun this summer.
Serenity Bay Wellness Spa is the Roisin’s dream business which she is just starting to make reality. In an attempt to boost awareness of the retreat, her advertising executive friend Chloe manages to get a television company to sign up to record a reality TV show there. Six celebrities will come to Serenity Bay while six celebrities will go to Switzerland. The show will try to prove whether natural or scientific methods make the most difference to your overall health and well-being. Chloe and Roisin hope that the celebrities will love with Serenity Bay and all it has to offer as much as they do.
I really want to go to the wellness retreat or spa or whatever you want to call Serenity Bay. It sounds just idyllic. I loved the whole ethos of good home cooking, enjoying the outdoors, appreciating nature and getting involved with activities like making your own scented candles, chocolate making workshops, nature courses, yoga and watersports .
The characters were just fabulous too and not just the main quartet of Roisin, Chloe, Heather and Andy. They were a real mixed bag of quirky characters who I became very fond of. Maggie, the pub landlord, was someone who I really liked, a real character.
As you might imagine, it doesn’t all go smoothly especially with the grumpy celebrities not really embracing the concept initially. There were lots of funny parts here as their competing egos took over. Sometimes though it seemed that just one thing after another went wrong and it seemed like Serenity Bay might not work its magic on them too.
I loved my visit to Serenity Bay and, as I said, wish it was a real place I could visit. Helen Bridgett has created some great characters and written a warmly funny and really engaging book, with a rather lovely love story too. I highly recommend this for a bit of escapist fun this summer.
July 10, 2020
After losing her job for refusing to represent a client with his dubious plans, Chloe discovers her long term boyfriend has replaced her. Chloe flees London to stay with her old friend Roisin in a small seaside village in Northumberland, there she finds calmness in her surroundings and enjoys life life at a slower pace.
Roisin is struggling to establish a wellness retreat at her grandmother's farmhouse and Chloe, with her advertising expertise and contacts, jumps at the opportunity to promote the new business.
Chloe arranges a meeting with the village community to explain how Roisin’s new venture will bring prosperity to the village. With everyone's support and enthusiasm, shops open full time and new business projects are planned.
Chloe is so successful with her promotion of Roisin’s wellness retreat that after a few bookings she secures a contract with a TV film company for the retreat to be a location for a reality show. The show will compare Roisin’s retreat to another in Switzerland. Life is turned upside down for the locals when celebrity contestants arrive to take part in the filming. Not everyone is serious about winning, but Roisin's retreat must win or she and her grandmother will be forced to sell the farmhouse.
An easy intriguing read with a delightful plot and believable characters, all set in a location you'd either want to move to or visit.
ARC generously supplied by Choc-Lit/Ruby Fiction, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
Roisin is struggling to establish a wellness retreat at her grandmother's farmhouse and Chloe, with her advertising expertise and contacts, jumps at the opportunity to promote the new business.
Chloe arranges a meeting with the village community to explain how Roisin’s new venture will bring prosperity to the village. With everyone's support and enthusiasm, shops open full time and new business projects are planned.
Chloe is so successful with her promotion of Roisin’s wellness retreat that after a few bookings she secures a contract with a TV film company for the retreat to be a location for a reality show. The show will compare Roisin’s retreat to another in Switzerland. Life is turned upside down for the locals when celebrity contestants arrive to take part in the filming. Not everyone is serious about winning, but Roisin's retreat must win or she and her grandmother will be forced to sell the farmhouse.
An easy intriguing read with a delightful plot and believable characters, all set in a location you'd either want to move to or visit.
ARC generously supplied by Choc-Lit/Ruby Fiction, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
July 15, 2020
Advertising executive Chloe goes to stay with best friend Roisin & grandmother Heather after losing her job & boyfriend on the same day.
Roisin wants to turn part of the farmhouse into a Wellness Retreat & needs Chloe’s help to promote it.
Heather owns the farmhouse but her other grandchildren who live in Australia want to sell the house so that puts pressure on Roisin to make the wellness retreat a success.
Chloe meets Andy who runs the nearby surf shack. They clash at first but become good friends & he helps her and Roisin with the new business.
The first clients are going to be a well known production company who then bring a group of celebrities to Serenity Bay to film a reality show. This puts more pressure on the girls to make the venture successful. Will they save the farmhouse?
The book is very well written. It feels like you’re part of the village. Plus its not predictable & the story kept me hooked until the end.
Roisin wants to turn part of the farmhouse into a Wellness Retreat & needs Chloe’s help to promote it.
Heather owns the farmhouse but her other grandchildren who live in Australia want to sell the house so that puts pressure on Roisin to make the wellness retreat a success.
Chloe meets Andy who runs the nearby surf shack. They clash at first but become good friends & he helps her and Roisin with the new business.
The first clients are going to be a well known production company who then bring a group of celebrities to Serenity Bay to film a reality show. This puts more pressure on the girls to make the venture successful. Will they save the farmhouse?
The book is very well written. It feels like you’re part of the village. Plus its not predictable & the story kept me hooked until the end.
July 15, 2023
I loved everything about this book, from its gorgeous setting on the Northumberland Coast to the wonderfully quirky cast of characters. Chloe disastrously loses her job and her boyfriend on the same day so is in desperate need of a break from her life. She goes back to Kyrrby to stay with her old friend Roisin. Next thing she’s drawn into helping Roisin turn her grandmother’s neglected farmhouse into a health retreat. But after they rebrand the village as Serenity Bay and even snag a spot in an upcoming reality TV show, the celebrities start to descend and everyone’s lives are turned upside down. Chloe’s confidence soars, especially when hot surfer, Andy is smitten by her, but will the dream crumble when things start to go wrong? I loved finding out and definitely want to pay another visit to Serenity Bay very soon!
July 14, 2020
You won’t want to leave Serenity Bay - fabulous novel! Wonderful story set amidst the apparently gorgeous coast of Northumberland. Chloe appeared to have it all in the big city - great job and boyfriend. But when everything fell apart she went to stay with her best friend, Roisin. What was supposed to be a short holiday turned into hard work to start up her friend’s wellness retreat. Throw in a sexy surf teacher who is not what he seems, a bunch of celebrities (who are definitely not what they seem), a great setting and you have the perfect summer read (regardless of the weather outside). Could not put it down! One of my new favourite novels! Highly recommend
July 14, 2020
Life is always a rollercoaster and often deals disappointments when you are on an up. Some people will buckle under the pressure and others will push on through, I believe the world needs more people who will do what is necessary to obtain their dreams and hold out to the very last gasp.
I love that this book chartered the ups and downs of the retreat, it’s clients, and the people running it as they run headlong into following their dreams. New friendships, new love, and health are all embedded in the pages alongside beautiful scenery and fresh air.
I love that this book chartered the ups and downs of the retreat, it’s clients, and the people running it as they run headlong into following their dreams. New friendships, new love, and health are all embedded in the pages alongside beautiful scenery and fresh air.
July 15, 2020
Loved this book. Right from the start it had me hooked. Chloe was the star from the opening pages. I really enjoyed her progress in getting her life back together after losing job and fella. De-camping to her friend Roisin's home proves both her escape and subsequent salvation. Reading how she helps Rousin and her grandmother get their Health Retreat up and running intrigued and entertained me. Her romance along the way added spice to the mix. A fun story with ups and downs, a light romance but plenty of content. A generally good read.
September 21, 2020
Fun reading. The main local characters remain little vague but the celebrities come alive and believable. The solution to securing the future of the new resort is somewhat too expected. Writing and dialogue is good.
I would give 4.5 stars if it would be possible. Nice to have books where the theme is not “returning to you old hometown, meeting the one who broke your heart or discovering startling old family secrets”.
A note to everybody who write reviews : a review is NOT a summary what happens in the book. It is your opinion of the book.
I would give 4.5 stars if it would be possible. Nice to have books where the theme is not “returning to you old hometown, meeting the one who broke your heart or discovering startling old family secrets”.
A note to everybody who write reviews : a review is NOT a summary what happens in the book. It is your opinion of the book.
September 21, 2024
Life sometimes shakes us up. And it moves to do something not thought of before. Reconnecting best friends brings them closer together after one finds her boyfriend cheating and then losing her high end job. When the friends unite, they are all at making life decisions. They unite, using each persons strongest abilities and carve out a goal for each person. Love, trust, giving and taking. New friends and strengthsome out too. It leads to life changing styles that each can love. It’s a great journey.
Read
July 14, 2020I was immediately attracted by the cover for this book, carefree cycling along the coast looked idyllic. However a lot of hard work is done before the characters in the story reach this point. Hard work is not enough, however to overcome all the difficulties. Roisin's family issues threaten the whole enterprise and then there are the celebrities-who bring their own problems. Reading this certainly sold the Northumberland coast to me, perhaps it will sell it to you too!
July 14, 2020
Starting from her absolute lowest point, Chloe is a bright and spunky heroine, picking herself up and getting on with life. It covers all the currently popular bases – health retreats, celebrity ‘reality’ shows, social media divas etc, and the story is cleverly woven, in a professional style. I would quite like a visit here myself – the homemade bread is calling me! I can recommend it as a very pleasant reading interlude for anyone.
September 3, 2024
This was a really good book with delightful characters in an idyllic location. I rushed to read the second book as soon as this one was finished!
Amazon synopsis:
Career girl Chloe Walsh is in need of some TLC. Her boyfriend was unfaithful and her job was at a dead end.
She’s leaving London to get away from it all and visiting her best friend Roisin in Serenity Bay.
But little does she know that her kooky friend has a master plan to breathe some life into the sleepy seaside village through a new wellness retreat. And she needs Chloe’s expertise.
Sparks fly with hunky Andy from the Surf Shack when he offers a helping hand. But Chloe swears not to be distracted by his sparkling eyes and perfect abs . . .
Then she attracts the attention of a major TV company, and before she knows it a clique of celebrities descend on Serenity Bay to film a new reality TV show.
Will the scandalous flings be left to the celebs, or could Chloe find some romance of her own?
Amazon synopsis:
Career girl Chloe Walsh is in need of some TLC. Her boyfriend was unfaithful and her job was at a dead end.
She’s leaving London to get away from it all and visiting her best friend Roisin in Serenity Bay.
But little does she know that her kooky friend has a master plan to breathe some life into the sleepy seaside village through a new wellness retreat. And she needs Chloe’s expertise.
Sparks fly with hunky Andy from the Surf Shack when he offers a helping hand. But Chloe swears not to be distracted by his sparkling eyes and perfect abs . . .
Then she attracts the attention of a major TV company, and before she knows it a clique of celebrities descend on Serenity Bay to film a new reality TV show.
Will the scandalous flings be left to the celebs, or could Chloe find some romance of her own?
November 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this light feel good easy read. Fabulous location on the beautiful coast of Northumberland, I would love to visit Serenity Bay. I liked all of the characters and empathised with them. A story of fun, celebrity, friendship, community, health, new beginnings, finding yourself and love.
A perfect book for a rainy day on the sofa with cake and hot chocolate.
A perfect book for a rainy day on the sofa with cake and hot chocolate.
August 29, 2024
Summer at Serenity Bay
I enjoyed this book from the beginning with Chloe losing her job and going to see her old friend. With all of the drama of getting the retreat up and the film people coming. Andy helping out and grandma Heather talking about selling the house. Glad how everything worked out.
I enjoyed this book from the beginning with Chloe losing her job and going to see her old friend. With all of the drama of getting the retreat up and the film people coming. Andy helping out and grandma Heather talking about selling the house. Glad how everything worked out.
November 14, 2020
Fabulous book that's hard to put down
I loved this book from the start lovely scenery to imagine great characters good ones to love and the obligatory bad ones to hate. The storyline is great too, definitely want to read more books by Helen.
I loved this book from the start lovely scenery to imagine great characters good ones to love and the obligatory bad ones to hate. The storyline is great too, definitely want to read more books by Helen.
September 20, 2021
First book I have read by this author. It was ok but a little too perfect for me. Its a nice read when you dont really want a complicated plot.
Will try more from the author but wouldnt say one of my favourite books so far.
Will try more from the author but wouldnt say one of my favourite books so far.
September 3, 2024
Charming and just that little bit different
It starts out as a very typical romantic novel, but there are some really quite unusual twists and turns along the way that make it special. Lost one star due to some poor proofreading, but still a lovely read.
It starts out as a very typical romantic novel, but there are some really quite unusual twists and turns along the way that make it special. Lost one star due to some poor proofreading, but still a lovely read.
September 9, 2024
Summer at Serenity Bay
This was compelling reading. Each person involved had something special about them. They each eventually had a problem needing to be sorted out. Everything was eventually resolved and there were many happy endings. A very pleasant and captivating story.
This was compelling reading. Each person involved had something special about them. They each eventually had a problem needing to be sorted out. Everything was eventually resolved and there were many happy endings. A very pleasant and captivating story.
October 5, 2024
Sweet romance in a small English town by the sea.
Little weird mixing that up with marketing and recording a tv reality show there.
Female character is Chloe and male Andy, former geography teacher current surf and kayak instructor.
Little weird mixing that up with marketing and recording a tv reality show there.
Female character is Chloe and male Andy, former geography teacher current surf and kayak instructor.
March 5, 2022
I liked this story it was enjoyable some of the characters I didn't like but generally, it was good.
dnf
June 2, 2023DNF at pg 46 (15%). Too many errors/issues that would have been caught by a good editor.
June 15, 2024
Nice concept, though a lot of events were a bit far fetched. And struggled with the writing at points.
Overall fine, easy read.
Overall fine, easy read.
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