Escape to Starshine Cove

Starshine Cove #1

by Debbie Johnson

Ella steps through the gate, and within seconds is standing at the edge of the most perfect beach she’s ever seen – a small horseshoe of sand fringing a rolling blanket of sparkling turquoise sea. Breathing in the fresh, salty air, she wipes the tears from her cheeks. Surely, in a place as beautiful as this, she can finally be happy? Ella Farrell has reached breaking point. Shattered by her job and her boyfriend’s recent betrayal, she grabs her stuff and flees down the coast. When her car breaks down a few miles short of Cornwall, she’s astonished by where she’s ended up. Not on any map, the tiny seaside village of Starshine Cove is almost too perfect for words. A cobbled lane lined with pretty, thatched cottages slopes towards a pristine white beach… has she finally lost it, or is this place for real? Spotting a little café on the edge of the cove, Ella settles in. It’s not long before – with a wedge of homemade raspberry cheesecake in front of her – Ella finds herself promising Connie, the café’s Dolly Parton-lookalike owner, that she might just stick around. As days turn into weeks, Ella warms to the quirky little village and the people who live there. Particularly Jake, the broad-shouldered, dark-haired landlord of the Starshine Inn. As they sip cocktails together at sundown, Ella feels they’ve been friends for years… except that her heart does a little flip-flop whenever their eyes meet. Jake also came to Starshine Cove by chance – was he too trying to run away from something? Just as Ella begins to feel the tension she’s carried for so long beginning to ease, the past comes knocking on her rustic, driftwood door. Will Ella find the strength to embrace this place and forge a new path, or is Starshine Cove – and her growing connection with Jake – simply too good a dream to last? From the million-copy bestselling author of the Comfort Food Café series, this is a heart-warming tale of second chances, self-discovery, and the extraordinary healing power of a community that finds you when you need it most.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Fiction, Audiobook, Summer, Womens Fiction

276 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 19, 2023

About the author

Debbie Johnson is an award-winning author who lives and works in Liverpool, where she divides her time between writing, caring for a small tribe of children and animals, and not doing the housework.

She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.

Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.

She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Sophie Stein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this book felt like a warm hug. It was soooo cute and cozy and heartfelt. It was also surprisingly hilarious! I was smiling the whole way through. I fell in love with every single character and will absolutely be reading the next book(s) in the series. I love all the cozy UK vibes so much. I just need Starshine Cove to be a real place 🥲

4.5 stars rounded up 💫

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Escape to Starshine Cove
3✨

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this entertaining read. It was warm and sweet and the characters made it even more enjoyable. I could imagine myself at Sunshine Cove easily. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Bookworman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this new story from Debbie Johnson. I'm a big fan of her "Comfort Food Cafe" series and the style of this story (hopefully, the start of a new series) was very similar. There are quirky, loveable characters, some wonderful snarky dialogue, romance, a heartwarming story, and a very cute dog. Johnson also handled some difficult issues in her usual classy and graceful way.

Some profanity and PG-13 (mostly offstage) love scene.

[Lenkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt like I was reading this book forever .. but in a good way! Like I saw so much of their lives but in less than 300 pages is crazy! Debbie’s writing is beautiful and handled some difficult times in such considerate ways that was heart wrenching to read but made me love all of the stories ❤️

Cannot wait to read the next in the series!

[Sarah Kingsnorth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Johnson - Escape To Starshine Cove.

When Ella finds her boyfriend up to no good with his much younger PA, she does what any self respecting woman would do. She takes his swanky car and heads off on a road trip of self discovery.
On her way to Cornwall, the car proves as useless as her cheating boyfriend, and breaks down leaving Ella stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Looking for a garage, Ella stumbles across the picture perfect village of Starshine.

This scenic village is not just beautiful to look at, but it also has a community with a big heart.
They take Ella in and show her nothing but care and kindness. Add in a blossoming friendship with a local hottie and why would Ella ever want to leave this magical little place?

#EscapeToStarshineCove is classic Debbie Johnson. It’s warm hearted, funny, sweet, romantic and charming. It has a gorgeous setting that will enchant you and a colourful, loveable mix of characters.

#EscapeToStarshineCove is a feel good read, that will top up your happiness levels and leave a smile on your face.
Quite simply, a gorgeous read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

With thanks to Netgalley and Storm publishing for a digital arc of this title.

[Nicola Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Johnson is an author who never fails me. I am a diehard and lifelong fan of her Comfort Food Cafe series and regularly find myself going back to them in want of much needed cosy Cornwall comfort and sunshine. So when Escape to Starshine Cove popped up on my radar, it was a no brainier. Ah, I loved it! A whole new series? Sign me up!

I want to go and play Mystery Cricket at Starshine cove, be welcomed into the bosom of Connie at the Cove Cafe and be enveloped into the cosy community life of the village. It’s written so vividly that you feel that you could almost be there! And the addition of the charming little Larry the Weresheep totally had my heart and soul so I think I was a goner for this book the moment I started the first page.

The book was a wonderful escape and escaping with Ella to this charming place and getting to know it through her eyes was lovely. I quickly grew to love her character and couldn’t wait to see her story unfold. A doctor, running from events in her life and seems to follow fate to Starshine cove. Could she find more than she bargained for?

A cosier and more heartwarming tale could not be found! I loved it and think it will become another addition to my ‘want to constantly reread’ shelf. And to hear that there are more to come makes me incredibly happy and I can’t wait for more.

Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.

[Caroline O'Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a absolutely beautiful heartwarming read, this book was the perfect escapist read after reading thrillers with a fantasy thrown in.

This books starts off with Ella walking in on her long term partner Mark getting it on with his PA, talk about a cliche Mark. To be honest though, this happening gave Ella the push to actually stop living a lie and sort her life out.

On the way to sorting her life out Ella’s car broke down and found her having to walk to the nearest town and what a place that turned out to be. Starship Cove is an absolutely incredible little town, it is filled with cafes and a pub and a lovely bunch of townsfolk. Ella really quickly found her place in amongst all the friendly people here and it was a struggle to leave. Being here really made Ella think about who she was and who she wanted to be as a person, it really pushed her to her limits but that actually wasn’t a bad thing as she needed that to help her choose what she wanted.

I thought this book was great, such a good fun easy read filled with so much laughter and friendship and feel good moments. I really enjoyed all of the characters we met too, they all played great roles in Ella’s journey.

We can’t forget adorable sweet Larry, what a gorgeous little dog.

Definitely recommend this book

Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.

[TF · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable read, set mostly along the south western coast of England. The characters are very interesting, realistic and totally believable. It's a perfect summer read but with hidden depths encompassing bereavement loss and stress. If you enjoyed the 'Comfort Café ' series you will definitely like this book.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Debbie Johnson's books, and this one is another delight!! Ella Farrell has reached her breaking point. Personal tragedy, discovering her boyfriend with another woman in their home, and having been a doctor during the pandemic have all taken their toll. One day, instead of reporting to work, she simply packs it all in and leaves London. Along the way to nowhere, her car breaks down and she finds the charming village of Starshine Cove, which reflects her own private "Happy Place", full of joyous people. But as Ella settles in, she begins to see that happy is surface deep and and that everyone has troubles. As things whirl out of control, will Ella settle in, or run again?
Ms. Johnson has a wonderful way of making you "see" the places her characters live in, and experience what they are feeling. I loved this book, these characters and this place. I'm really hoping that there are more to come!!

[thewoollygeek (tea, cake, crochet & books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might be a biased Debbie Johnson fan, but this book was fantastic, I just couldn’t put it down. It’s magical, I can only describe it as comfort reading, the go to read to make you feel good about everything, that’s not to say she doesn’t shy away from tough issues and real life, she does, but in a sensitive and careful way that shows her research and caring into her subjects, overall, I thoroughly recommend this heartwarming,read, the first in a new series. Can’t wait to read the next

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Erika · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ella, a woman in her late 30's, has had it. As a doctor at the drop in clinic, she works down to the bone in dreary, dirty London. Now, she's walked in on her boyfriend of several years cheating on her - in her house that hasn't felt like home in years. Cue a self-discovery road trip that ultimately leads her to the beauty of Starshine Cove.

Based on other reviews, I imagined a cozy story akin to a Hallmark movie. The place seemed magical and its people kind and welcoming, but the plot unfolded a bit awkwardly for me. The angsty "Should I Go or Should I Stay?" bit happened several more times than it felt to be naturally developing from such a cozy tale.

[jensbooknookclub · Rating 4 out of 5]

First thought: I enjoyed it! I love books with good messages and this one was: that even on the darkest days there is always light and hope.

Met Ella, her life is falling apart. She feels nothing anymore and just needs to escape her life. Ella has had an exceptionally hard few years working as a doctor during the epidemic in London, suffering a miscarriage and then walking in on her partner of over 10yrs having an affair. She is mentally numb to it all! She packs her suitcase and walks away from her life, she gets in a car with no destination in mind.

To Ella’s luck or dismay her car breaks down miles away from a hidden gem of a community on the English shore called Starshine Cove. She transported to another world that seems to good to be true, where cell phones don’t work, people care about each other and for the first time in a long time she can just rest and tune out the noise of life.

Meet Jack he happened upon Starshine Cove a few years back escaping his own dark past. He is now the local inn/bar owner and when Ella rolls into town he happily takes her in. There is an instant connection between the two that forms a new friendship and maybe eventually the 3Ls: Like, Lust, and Love.

This is a slow burn romance that addresses themes of loss, mental health, self discovery all in a small town setting. It is a classic romance is told in a single perspective and allows you to connect Ella with as she navigates if all. It was a good book!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone else described this book as a warm hug and those were the words I was looking for. Love this new series of Debbie Johnson.

[Alyson Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished reading this absolutely loved it - I’m now on my 2nd book so refreshing !

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three and a half stars.

When Ella Farrell finds her boyfriend in bed (at least it was their spare bedroom) with his twenty-year old PA she realises she feels nothing but relief. She packs a few belongings, takes a leave of absence from her job as a locum and takes her boyfriend's car on a trip to rediscover her youth.

Unfortunately, in peak Summer her four partners in crime are either on holiday or have moved away, leaving Ella to drift aimlessly along the south coast of England until her boyfriend's swanky German car breaks down in the middle of nowhere.

Searching for a garage, or at least a phone signal, Ella stumbles across a stray dog and then a village so picturesque that she thinks it must be a hallucination. The kind but eccentric villagers organise for a garage to tow her car, feed her, and give her a room in the local pub/hotel for the night. The village of Starshine Cove has somehow escaped being on any maps, adding to its Brigadoon qualities.

At first Ella is keen to leave Starshine Cove as soon as possible, but when she realises she is choosing sleeping in her car in the car park of a motorway services hotel over a beautiful room in a charming village she sees the error of her ways. But can Ella stop running from herself long enough to find a home?

This is typical Debbie Johnson, small village, quirky characters, beautiful scenery and a charming romance.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Available on my Kindle Unlimited subscription.

Bumped for release.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a refreshing, honest, well-rounded story that portrays the power of community in how it can heal and direct lost or wounded souls. A community that shines like the stars in its ability to love, care and nurture all those who stumble into its borders. A place without harsh judgement and preconceived notions. A group of people available to support and assist each other through thick and thin. It is here at Starshine Cove we see the true spirit of giving and loving your neighbour.

I got a clear picture from the author’s descriptions that Starshine Cove is a pristine, breathtaking location: a perfect spot to escape, reset and revitalise. Its natural beauty just wraps around each wanderer or resident like a warm hug and causes them to relax when needed. It is a place where some want to put down roots or find a home for their belongings and heart. For most who accidentally land here, they find it hard to leave. Of course, realistically, this gorgeous haven by the sea is not perfect but close enough.

I had never read books by Debbie Johnson so did not know her writing style. But I am really glad I chose to embark on a journey with her endearing characters to Starshine Cove! This is a stunning modern novel that delves into mental health: a vivid example of how the pressures of life can affect the mind and mood of the most solid of persons. Ella Farrell is a doctor and has handled many emergencies in her job but when she loses her own pregnancy, her life begins to come undone. She blames herself (we all do when this happens) but the novel clearly shows that even when we do our best, a pregnancy can fail. She is not only deeply affected by this loss but also her partner is, too. They end up responding in different ways. She withdraws emotionally, unable to process her grief and he acts out his sadness by taking up with a younger woman. When Ella walks in on them, she is initially shocked and hurt. But when she thinks about it, she realises the cause. They had been drifting apart, lost in their own disappointment, driving to different destinations. And although this event has shone a light on the potholes that had developed, it has exposed a shakey ground underneath. Their issues were not sudden and she knows no matter what she does, she cannot reclaim the past or fix their broken relationship. Damage repair is not going to work. Her feelings have changed and she immediately wishes to escape the whole sordid mess. Although the betrayal pushes her to make an abrupt decision, she knows it is the right thing to do. Treating the symptoms will never be enough. When there’s no cure, it is best to move on.

So she takes off, not knowing where she will end up. Whether because of fate or something else, she finds herself having car trouble in the middle of nowhere. No phone connection and no houses in view so she steps out of the vehicle and begins walking in a direction hoping to find help. But just before she does, a scraggly furry creature appears. A small dog who looks starved and lost. This part of the story moved me to tears, as the descriptions are both heartbreaking and uplifting. Beautiful humour is inserted here which provides great comic relief surrounding this little fellow. He is a wonderful character and ultimately plays a generous part in her restoration. As one article by Four Paws International states, ‘Animals are our soulmates, helpers and friends.’ This story demonstrates this beautifully, that pets ‘have a positive effect on physical and mental health, they give us emotional support…and can be a calm anchor in stressful situations.’ Ella learns this very quickly. Although she initially rescues him, takes a thorn from his foot, feeds and baths him, he also rescues her and is one of many community members who helps her get back in touch with her positive emotions. This little dog and the people of Starshine Cove, allow her to feel alive again. Yet there are bumps along the way, when she tries to be brave and move forward.

I loved how Debbie delves into psychology to offer explanations of why people do what they do in response to life’s curveballs. This offers depth and insight. There are many lines of wisdom and good advice provided through various characters, including solid analysis and direction from her Psychiatrist friend. In fact, all the characters surrounding Ella are likeable. Especially Jake, who is extra special. His patience, kindness, friendship, understanding and love provide the ingredients she needs to conquer many hurdles.

This is a beautiful, full, satisfying story that lifted my spirits, inspired my heart and made me very glad I read it. The emotions are real, raw, tender and triumphant. I also loved the name Starshine Cove which was obviously taken from the caves in the area that contained glittering stones that are highlighted when the moon hits the walls just right. There are some tender moments of romance and gentle passion in the cave. This precious story made my heart sigh, sing and cheer. I also enjoyed the beautiful symbolism scattered across its canvas. Now I am dying to read the next instalment and to also delve into Debbie’s previous stories. I highly recommend Escape to Starshine Cove without hesitation. 5 Glittering Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.

[lise · Rating 2 out of 5]

just pure bad

[Sarah (blissbubbley) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Debbie Johnson’s “Escape to Starshine Cove” is a heartwarming and enchanting novel that takes readers on a delightful journey to the picturesque coastal town of Starshine Cove. With its engaging characters, charming setting, this book is a perfect escape that earns its well-deserved four-star rating.

The story follows Ella. a woman seeking a fresh start after a difficult period in her life. As she arrives in Starshine Cove, she discovers a close-knit community and forms endearing friendships that redefine the meaning of home and family. Debbie Johnson’s writing style is both evocative and immersive, capturing the allure of the coastal setting and infusing the narrative with warmth and humor.

One of the highlights of “Escape to Starshine Cove” is the well-developed characters that readers have come to love from the Comfort Food Cafe series. Ella is a relatable and resilient protagonist, and her personal journey of healing and self-discovery is both heartrending and uplifting. The supporting characters add depth to the story.

The coastal setting of Starshine Cove is brought to life with vivid descriptions, making it feel like a character in itself. The charming community and idyllic surroundings provide a comforting backdrop to the narrative, further enhancing the feel-good atmosphere of the book.

Debbie Johnson’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotions shines through in “Escape to Starshine Cove.” The book delves into themes of love, loss, and the importance of second chances, resonating with readers and eliciting a range of emotions throughout the story.

“Escape to Starshine Cove” delivers the heartwarming and uplifting storytelling that fans have come to adore.
In conclusion, “Escape to Starshine Cove” is a heartwarming and enchanting novel that celebrates the power of love, friendship, and the healing qualities of a close-knit community. Debbie Johnson’s evocative writing, beloved characters, and the idyllic coastal setting make this book a delightful addition. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and feel-good read that will transport you to the beauty of Starshine Cove, this book is the perfect choice for fans and newcomers alike. Prepare to be charmed by the magic of Debbie Johnson’s storytelling and the allure of this captivating coastal retreat.

[Lindsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Escape to Starshine Cove is a delightful romantic novel, offering a charming escape with its quaint village setting and heartwarming community. As an occasional reader of the romance genre, I found this book to be a refreshing palate cleanser, a gentle tide amidst the often tumultuous sea of heavier reads.

The protagonist, Ella, is relatable, though at times her reaction to crises felt overly self-centered. Her response to Dan's illness, for example, was self-inflicted pressure, despite the community's reassurances. This aspect of her character could have been handled with more nuance, allowing for growth that goes beyond self-imposed guilt.

On the other hand, the character of Jake added a soothing balm to the narrative with his kindness, patience, and unwavering support for Ella. Their relationship offered sweet moments of connection that effectively underscored the romantic core of the story.

One of the standout elements of the book was the vibrant portrayal of village life. From the cozy cafe with its delectable baked goods to the communal events that bring everyone together, the author deftly paints a picture of a warm and welcoming community. The addition of a dog further enhanced the homey atmosphere of Starshine Cove, striking a chord with my love for animals.

In conclusion, Escape to Starshine Cove is an enjoyable, light-hearted read. While it occasionally dips into moments of frustration due to the protagonist's tendency toward self-involvement, it more than makes up for it with its captivating setting and charming supporting characters. Recommended for anyone seeking a quick and pleasant reading escape.

[Yani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read if you enjoy:
🐚 Small Beach Town Vibes
🐚 Closed Door Romance
🐚 Self Discovery
🐚 Slow Burn
🐚 Mental Health Awareness
🐚 One POV

Rating: 4.5⭐️

Escape to Sunshine Cove will transport you to the charming, beachy small town of Starshine Cove where this story takes place. Debbie Johnson has such a beautiful way with words which describe you the perfect happy place pulled straight from a Hallmark movie. This book is filled with lovable characters and self discovery.

Ella is a doctor and her life has fallen apart after tragic circumstances. Moreover, she walks in on her partner of over 10 years having an affair. This was the last drop that pushed her on a self-discovery journey. She begins a roadtrip in which there is no timeline. As her car breaks down in the “middle of nowhere” she begins taking steps towards what would become her new happy place. She discovery a hidden gem in Starshine Cove and this is where her new story begins as she meets Jack and the people from the town.

I wouldn’t consider this a full on romance book. There are parts that complement the story as a slow burn and closed door romance. This did not deter me from enjoying Ella’s self-discovery and healing journey. It is a sweet, warm-hearted story that will make you feel happy once you close that book.

This story addressed multiple topics that you should be aware of before reading as it may be triggers for some readers. It explores loss (pandemic and miscarriage) and mental health.

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.

[Pinki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escape to Starshine Cove is a feel-good book about Ella and her journey of self-discovery at Starshine Cove.

Ella was not happy about how things were going, and she broke up with her boyfriend after catching him cheating on her. She flees from the house, spending one month on the road. She stumbled upon a stray dog when her car broke down in the middle of nowhere and they both later ended up in Starshine Cove.

One can empathise with Ella’s character. She has been through a lot, which has affected her mental health. She needed a break to discover herself again, and Starshine Cove was the perfect place for her. There She met Jake, who understood her, and they developed feelings for each other. The only thing I didn’t like about Ella was her dilemma about whether she wanted to go or stay here. Larry the sheep, Ella’s dog, was the cutest addition.

I loved the premises of Starshine Cove; this place had a happy, positive, and magical vibe. All the characters were welcoming and wanted the best for Ella.

I loved the plot, the settings, and the pacing. It was a quick and lighthearted read. Sensitive topics in the book were very well handled by the author.

I would recommend it if you are looking for lighthearted and feel-good books.

TW: Anxiety, Cancer, Miscarriage, Death

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter, this book was giving me the same warm and fuzzy feeling that Debbie Johnson's previous Comfort Food Cafe series, gave me. It's a book I felt completely at home at within pages, and I couldn't read it quick enough.

It's not all warm and fuzzy though, as it definitely also touches on themes such as the affect of the pandemic on healthcare professional's especially their mental health.

While set in the most amazing of settings, Starshine Cove. I loved every single description of Starshine Cove. It is such a special setting, and all of the locals at a mix of bonkers, and totally loveable.

And for Ella, it may be the place she can finally stop running and start sorting out her life. If she can bring herself to connect with people again.

Between naked karaoke, mystery cricket, a Dolly Parton lookalike, a doctor who is unsure if she wishes to continue working in the field, and a gorgeous "pub daddy, along with a village that communicates by walkie talkies - this is quirky, it's fun and I couldn't get enough of this book.

It is such a heartwarming story, and it's the most perfect first book of a brand new series. I'm already keen to read the next one, I'm missing my friends in Starshine Cove already.

Thank you to Storm and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming story that will tug at your heart and pull you in from the beginning.
What a gorgeous setting as well.
I feel like this should have been made into a Hallmark movie it was so good!
Wonderful characters like Ella, George and Connie.
I found myself smiling the whole way through because of the light banter displayed in this book. Other places I simply laughed out loud.
For example, George talking to Ella;
“Well, you were a blessing today, Ella,” he says, patting me on the shoulder. “It would all have been very different without you. I wouldn’t have known what to do, and Connie here would probably have just wafted a croissant under his nose and hoped it brought him round. You have a gift, and it was a privilege to see you use it.”
This was one of the scenes that made me giggle.
A very well written novel with realistic challenges and characters with flaws that I enjoyed very much!
I really enjoyed getting to know Ella. I felt like she was a friend from the get go.
I also loved the small town feel as I grew up in small town myself.
5 stars for keeping me engaged throughout this funny, cute and fun read. I highly recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Fictionatnight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deflated Ella decides not to go to work and insteads heads back home. Here, she finds her boyfriend of 13 years in bed with another woman, and Ella realises that her relationship has come to an end. She packs a few belongings and leaves her home behind her.

Her car breaks down while on her way to Cornwall. Looking for help, Ella stumbles across an abandoned dog and the magical-looking Starshine Cove. She finds the most welcoming community, though Ella is in turmoil whether to leave or stay.

Debbie Johnson is yet another new-to me-author, and this book won't be the last one I will be reading from this author.

This was such an uplifting story, yet takling serious subjects like burnout. I was drawn quickly into and was looking forward to how the story would unfold. I adore the characters of the Starshine Cove community, and Debbie Johnson described the scenery so beautiful.

A perfect summer romance! Plus, there will be another book added to this series.

Puplication Date 19.07.2023

Thank you @stormbooks_co, @netgalley, and Debbie Johnson for the opportunity to read this advanced copy of the book

[Margie Bunting · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escape to Starshine Cove is comfort food for the soul. It's a life-affirming, undemanding fairy tale about a doctor who is exhausted mentally and physically from her work during the Covid pandemic and disillusioned after finding her longtime partner in bed with a younger woman. Realizing that what she needs is a complete change of pace and venue, Ella packs up her belongings and hits the the road in a car she appropriates from said ex-lover. She doesn't really know where she is going until she catches a glimpse of an alluring seaside village near Cornwall that seems like it just might be too good to be true. Quaint, charming, magically beautiful, and populated by a host of quirky but welcoming characters, Starshine Cove beckons Ella and begins to soothe her soul. In the process she forms a bond with an errant dog and the gorgeous man who owns the town pub.

There are deeper issues here, including mental health and loss of loved ones, and they are dealt with seriously, but the delightfully drawn, complex characters and the captivating village itself are what makes this an enchanting read and a wonderful respite from heavier stories. I loved every minute of it.

[Henriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story really was as wonderful as the cover suggests! I was familiar with Debbie's writing style especially from having read the Comfort Food Café series and I knew the story was likely to be full of wonderful characters and a strong community feeling and I was not wrong! This story had all those things and then some. This story definitely gave me all the feels.
I had the pleasure of listening to the audible version and Colleen did a fabulous job, as always. I was immediately drawn in to Ella's story. I felt everything she was going through, first when discovering what her boyfriend was up to and then when she went on the run and finally when she finds all those lovely people in Starshine Cove. There were many times where I found myself smiling or giggling and above all several times where I was really moved, but that may also be due to personal medical experiences of loved ones recently that it all became a bit much for me. At one point Ella said she should not be crying, and then I thought why ever not? Even I am crying now!
This is seriously a must read for readers of this genre!

[Cozy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite summer read of 2023. I loved the journey the author took the reader through of discovering life anew . Thank you to the publisher, the author and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own.

Ella is on a journey after finding her boyfriend cheating in their house. She leaves her dead end job in health care, takes his car and drives towards the English Coast. After a car breakdown she has a encounter with a stray dog she befriends and a new friend she is interested in in a beautiful quirky seaside village. Her journey is to find herself, reclaim who she truly is and rebuild a life of joy that she did not find in her past.

I love the authors writing, the humor and realness of this book. This is the perfect summertime read with all the summer elements of a beautful beach town, rediscovery of joy and starting over. I highly recommend this wonderful book for your reading enjoyment. Ella is a rich charcter, honest and a great example to us all that through starting over and taking a leap of faith you can change your life.

[Pippa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read almost all of Debbie Johnson’s stories so obviously I like her work, but I will admit I had a moment of anxiety over this one. The title would normally have me reject the book without even reading the synopsis, in my experience any book called “The cosy cottage cupcake café in Daisy Lane” or other sickly-sweet words is almost certainly a nauseatingly saccharine filled fest of juvenile drivel, and “Starshine” had me wondering if DJ had ventured into this territory. In addition, it was published less than two months after “Falling for You” and there are a few authors I had enjoyed, authors who used to publish a quality book about once a year but started churning out mediocre offerings three or four times a year. Fear not, this is everything I wanted it to be.

Admittedly there is a touch of idealism about the place and its community but not so much so that it is absurd, more of a wouldn’t it be lovely if it was real. If you feel in the need of some escapism, something warm and comforting, then you should enjoy this which I believe is just book #1.

[Angie F · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only word that does justice to this book is magical. When her car breaks down in the middle of nowhere it's the last straw for Ella so when she stumbles into Starshine Cove she thinks she might be hallucinating. From Dolly Parton lookalike Connie and charming octogenarian George to the two Betties and green haired teenager Dan everything and everyone feels a bit surreal. But when she meets hunky pub owner Jake she's quite happy to be there hallucination or not. This is type of story that Debbie Johnson does so well, she doesn't just focus on the good looking young people and their will they won't they romance.. All the other, dare I say more interesting, characters get equal billing. The bereaved fathers, the single mothers and the not really rebellious teenagers are what makes her stories so real. I don't think I've read one of her books that I didn't have a little cry at and this one is no different so keep your tissues at hand and don't worry you'll be laughing more than you are crying.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.