What do you think?
Pleasant Bay
Is their love one for the ages, or just for the summer?
It’s the summer of 2002, and Sarah Harris has experienced enough heartache this past year to last a lifetime. In the shadow of 9/11 and the wake of her own personal tragedies, Sarah escapes to the solace of her aunt’s beach cottage on Cape Cod. She only has one plan for the to work as many hours as possible waitressing at a swanky golf resort on Pleasant Bay, saving up enough money to put herself through her final year of college. But then, she finds herself falling head-over-heels for Luke, a baseball player who’s also on the Cape for the summer — definitely not part of her plan. Especially because when the summer is over, they’ll have no choice but to go their separate ways, and she’s not sure her still-shattered heart can handle another break. Nearly two decades later, sixteen-year-old Madelyn is going through some struggles of her own — mainly with her overworked single mom, who doesn’t approve of Madelyn’s older boyfriend and is too overprotective to give her the freedom she so desperately wants. More and more, she finds herself longing for the father she’s never had, the father her mom refuses to tell her anything about. When the friction between the two of them reaches a boiling point, Madelyn’s mom sends her to Cape Cod to spend the summer with her grandmother in her little cottage on Pleasant Bay, where she stumbles upon clues to her absentee father’s identity. But as she begins to consider reaching out to him, she’s faced with an impossible risk breaking her mother’s heart, or her own. As their storylines converge, both Sarah and Madelyn must confront the far-reaching consequences of their choices — not only on themselves, but on the people around them. Is it too late to ask forgiveness from the people they’ve hurt? And more importantly, can they find it in their hearts to forgive themselves? Spanning two summers and nearly two decades, Pleasant Bay is an intimate portrait of the unwavering bonds of family, the beauty of second chances, and the journeys we take to find our way back to ourselves.
It’s the summer of 2002, and Sarah Harris has experienced enough heartache this past year to last a lifetime. In the shadow of 9/11 and the wake of her own personal tragedies, Sarah escapes to the solace of her aunt’s beach cottage on Cape Cod. She only has one plan for the to work as many hours as possible waitressing at a swanky golf resort on Pleasant Bay, saving up enough money to put herself through her final year of college. But then, she finds herself falling head-over-heels for Luke, a baseball player who’s also on the Cape for the summer — definitely not part of her plan. Especially because when the summer is over, they’ll have no choice but to go their separate ways, and she’s not sure her still-shattered heart can handle another break. Nearly two decades later, sixteen-year-old Madelyn is going through some struggles of her own — mainly with her overworked single mom, who doesn’t approve of Madelyn’s older boyfriend and is too overprotective to give her the freedom she so desperately wants. More and more, she finds herself longing for the father she’s never had, the father her mom refuses to tell her anything about. When the friction between the two of them reaches a boiling point, Madelyn’s mom sends her to Cape Cod to spend the summer with her grandmother in her little cottage on Pleasant Bay, where she stumbles upon clues to her absentee father’s identity. But as she begins to consider reaching out to him, she’s faced with an impossible risk breaking her mother’s heart, or her own. As their storylines converge, both Sarah and Madelyn must confront the far-reaching consequences of their choices — not only on themselves, but on the people around them. Is it too late to ask forgiveness from the people they’ve hurt? And more importantly, can they find it in their hearts to forgive themselves? Spanning two summers and nearly two decades, Pleasant Bay is an intimate portrait of the unwavering bonds of family, the beauty of second chances, and the journeys we take to find our way back to ourselves.
- GenresRomanceAdult Fiction
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 3, 2023
If you are looking for a beach read, stop, I've found it. Pleasant Bay is an absolute FANTASTIC summer read and left me with that tough decision...do I fly through the book and finish it or do I savor this and enjoy every second with these characters? Well...I devoured it and am now left with an incredible book hangover.
Pleasant Bay goes back and forth between 2002 and 2019. The unique part to this story is that in 2002 we are reading things from Sarah's perspective. In 2019 we are reading in present day, from her daughter's perspective.
Sarah spends a summer with her aunt in Cape Cod. It's about to be her senior year in college and she's living up life waitressing to save up money. She's had an absolutely crap year with a breakup and her father falling ill. Can a summer in Cape Cod save her sanity?
Madelyn, Sarah's daughter, also spends a summer in Cape Cod with her great aunt to help give her a break from her single mother. It's the summer between her sophomore and junior year of high school and her boyfriend happens to be a senior about to go away to college. The nerve her mother has to send her away!
Can I add in some family drama? Madelyn has no idea who her father is. Her mother has kept this from her, but why. Well...no spoilers here, but she's a teen who won't stop until she figures her life out.
5 stars. SOLID read, perfect for laying by the pool or at the beach. What I appreciated the most with this, was how the writing changed between characters. Sarah in 2002 is written like a college student. Sarah in 2019 is a total typical teen who thinks they know better. I could say so, so much more, but that would ruin what makes this book so special. Just know that I laughed and I cried. I love a good epilogue and this one delivers just that!
Pleasant Bay goes back and forth between 2002 and 2019. The unique part to this story is that in 2002 we are reading things from Sarah's perspective. In 2019 we are reading in present day, from her daughter's perspective.
Sarah spends a summer with her aunt in Cape Cod. It's about to be her senior year in college and she's living up life waitressing to save up money. She's had an absolutely crap year with a breakup and her father falling ill. Can a summer in Cape Cod save her sanity?
Madelyn, Sarah's daughter, also spends a summer in Cape Cod with her great aunt to help give her a break from her single mother. It's the summer between her sophomore and junior year of high school and her boyfriend happens to be a senior about to go away to college. The nerve her mother has to send her away!
Can I add in some family drama? Madelyn has no idea who her father is. Her mother has kept this from her, but why. Well...no spoilers here, but she's a teen who won't stop until she figures her life out.
5 stars. SOLID read, perfect for laying by the pool or at the beach. What I appreciated the most with this, was how the writing changed between characters. Sarah in 2002 is written like a college student. Sarah in 2019 is a total typical teen who thinks they know better. I could say so, so much more, but that would ruin what makes this book so special. Just know that I laughed and I cried. I love a good epilogue and this one delivers just that!
August 4, 2023
I smiled, laughed, cried and was reminded of so many wonderful memories growing up in New England- this book gave me all the feels and was the perfect beach read! The characters are so relatable, I loved being transported in time back to 2002 for some of the book, and everyone deserves to have an Aunt Claire in their corner! Kudos!
September 30, 2023
It took me a while to read this one, not because of the book, I’ve just been in a weird funk lately.. But I finished and this was beautiful! I loved getting to read Sarah’s POV from 2002 alongside her daughter Maddy’s POV in the present. When things came together I realized how nice it was to see both sides.
I loved the growth of each character and the family bonding that took place. Luke was amazing. I absolutely loved his character in both the past and the present. I loved Claire’s advice about “timing” to both Maddy and Sarah and loved seeing the timing work out for each one. The romance aspect was sweet and enjoyable! But I felt like Maddy and her moms relationship, as well as Aunt Claire and Gram’s, was the star of the show. I don’t want to say too much about it because I feel as though it would spoil some of the moments in the book but I would highly recommend this one! 🥹💗
I loved the growth of each character and the family bonding that took place. Luke was amazing. I absolutely loved his character in both the past and the present. I loved Claire’s advice about “timing” to both Maddy and Sarah and loved seeing the timing work out for each one. The romance aspect was sweet and enjoyable! But I felt like Maddy and her moms relationship, as well as Aunt Claire and Gram’s, was the star of the show. I don’t want to say too much about it because I feel as though it would spoil some of the moments in the book but I would highly recommend this one! 🥹💗
November 18, 2023
Seasonally I know my timing is off with this one but remember it for next summer because this is a great beach read. It has the perfect summery setting of Cape Cod, a side of family drama, which honestly makes the best beach reads, and really well written characters. There’s two timelines, 2002 and 2019 and the earlier one was nostalgic for me in some ways. I loved the importance placed on familial relationships, particularly those between the women in this family, it was really special and touching. It had a little something for everyone too, the aforementioned drama, romance, love, loss and second chances making it appealing to many readers. I really enjoyed this one, very emotional and heartfelt but uplifting in the end.
February 5, 2026
Beautifully written and I felt like I learned a few lessons along the way!
August 11, 2023
This book made me feel every single emotion, fully & deeply. The easiest 5 star rating! The storyline and characters are so relatable. I adored all the characters but Luke was my favorite! It’s hard to find a book where you love every part of it including the ending- this ending was perfection!
I could say SO much more but just get yourself a copy! You will not be disappointed! ♥️
I could say SO much more but just get yourself a copy! You will not be disappointed! ♥️
April 18, 2024
4.5 stars!
What a well-rounded romance, coming-of-age story. I’m a sucker for second chance romances and oh boy, did I enjoy this one. Sarah and Luke have the summer love we all dreamed about! I loved their reconnection and Sarah’s growth from a young adult into a mother, and how she navigated her life. Her relationship with Madelyn, her daughter, adds a much loved aspect to the story.
This novel also highlights family dynamics and relationships. What a beautiful environment Emily created for the main characters. She highlights the stresses of loved ones, the grief of losing them, and the closeness in healthy relationships.
Grab some ice cream and get ready to be enveloped in the mystique of Pleasant Bay. I loved that this book can reach so many audiences! If you love second chance romance, this is for you. If you love mother-daughter stories, this is for you. If you enjoy realistic family dynamics, this is for you. If you love a coming-to-age book that takes place over the span of someone’s life (not just childhood), this is for you!
Lastly, I would like to thank Emily Wakeman Cyr for receiving a copy of her debut book via Audible! The performance by Sarah Wadsley was amazing (and kudos to her awesome Australian accent)!
(CW: SA/ death of parent off page/ death of relative on page)
What a well-rounded romance, coming-of-age story. I’m a sucker for second chance romances and oh boy, did I enjoy this one. Sarah and Luke have the summer love we all dreamed about! I loved their reconnection and Sarah’s growth from a young adult into a mother, and how she navigated her life. Her relationship with Madelyn, her daughter, adds a much loved aspect to the story.
This novel also highlights family dynamics and relationships. What a beautiful environment Emily created for the main characters. She highlights the stresses of loved ones, the grief of losing them, and the closeness in healthy relationships.
Grab some ice cream and get ready to be enveloped in the mystique of Pleasant Bay. I loved that this book can reach so many audiences! If you love second chance romance, this is for you. If you love mother-daughter stories, this is for you. If you enjoy realistic family dynamics, this is for you. If you love a coming-to-age book that takes place over the span of someone’s life (not just childhood), this is for you!
Lastly, I would like to thank Emily Wakeman Cyr for receiving a copy of her debut book via Audible! The performance by Sarah Wadsley was amazing (and kudos to her awesome Australian accent)!
(CW: SA/ death of parent off page/ death of relative on page)
April 25, 2024
This is the summer read we all need. It’s heartwarming, fun, sweet and filled with second chance romance we all dream about. Plus add in a little baseball, a dreamy beach location, found family- it’s a perfect combination.
This story is told in dual timeline between the summers spent in Cape Cod during 2002 and 2019. First point of view we meet Sarah. She just turned 21 and facing a lot of change in her life, her dad is sick, her brother is in military overseas and she just experienced a devastating breakup. She goes to live with her aunt Claire for the summer. Then flash forward to 2019 and we meet Madelyn, Sarah’s daughter. She is turning 16 and typical teenager. In love with her high school boyfriend. She has questions about her dad but her mom refuses to give her any information.
The narration by Sarah Wadsley was amazing. She really brought the characters in this story to life. It was such an easy listen.
I think either listen or reading this is a perfect summer beach read.
This story is told in dual timeline between the summers spent in Cape Cod during 2002 and 2019. First point of view we meet Sarah. She just turned 21 and facing a lot of change in her life, her dad is sick, her brother is in military overseas and she just experienced a devastating breakup. She goes to live with her aunt Claire for the summer. Then flash forward to 2019 and we meet Madelyn, Sarah’s daughter. She is turning 16 and typical teenager. In love with her high school boyfriend. She has questions about her dad but her mom refuses to give her any information.
The narration by Sarah Wadsley was amazing. She really brought the characters in this story to life. It was such an easy listen.
I think either listen or reading this is a perfect summer beach read.
September 8, 2023
“They ended the evening at the boathouse, watching the sky over Pleasant Bay turn from cotton candy pink to deep magenta.”
2002: Sam’s dad is sick, her brother enlisted and her boyfriend breaks up with her. Sam decides to stay in Cape Cod with her Aunt Claire for the summer to keep her mind off things. She gets a job and meets some friends. She meets Luke one night at the bar and their relationship takes off.
2019: Madelyn is an only child who lives with her mom. It’s just the two of them. She never knew her father. Everytime she asks about him, her mom Sam won’t even tell her anything! After a fight with her mom, she goes to Cape Cod for the summer with her grandma. She finally has some clues about her dad and reaches out to him.
Does Madelyn meet her father? What would her mother think about this?
I really enjoyed this story and how it all came together. Such a great read!
“Maybe sometimes that’s what people needed most of all: someone who showed up and kept showing up.”
2002: Sam’s dad is sick, her brother enlisted and her boyfriend breaks up with her. Sam decides to stay in Cape Cod with her Aunt Claire for the summer to keep her mind off things. She gets a job and meets some friends. She meets Luke one night at the bar and their relationship takes off.
2019: Madelyn is an only child who lives with her mom. It’s just the two of them. She never knew her father. Everytime she asks about him, her mom Sam won’t even tell her anything! After a fight with her mom, she goes to Cape Cod for the summer with her grandma. She finally has some clues about her dad and reaches out to him.
Does Madelyn meet her father? What would her mother think about this?
I really enjoyed this story and how it all came together. Such a great read!
“Maybe sometimes that’s what people needed most of all: someone who showed up and kept showing up.”
August 23, 2023
Pleasant Bay is the perfect summer read. Uplifting, emotional, and relatable, Emily Wakeman Cyr's debut novel is one of those stories you'll keep thinking about long after you've read the final page.
Pleasant Bay is told in alternating points of view between past and present. In 2002, young adult Sarah Harris seeks solace from heartache at her aunt's Cape Cod beach cottage, planning to work and help her financially hard hit family while saving some money for college. When she meets Luke, 21 year-old-Sarah isn't sure whether this man could be the love of her life, or just a summer love to remember.
Fast forward to Sarah and her 16-year-old daughter Madelyn, who is going through struggles of her own — an overworked and overprotective single mom who doesn’t approve of Madelyn’s older boyfriend and an absentee father her mom refuses divulge anything about.
When the friction between mother and daughter reaches a boiling point, Madelyn’s mom Sarah sends her to Cape Cod against her will to spend the summer with her grandmother, where she comes as close as she’s ever been to figuring out her father’s identity.
The two distinct voices/POV of Sarah and Madelyn are engaging and easy to follow and add an element of intrigue to the story. As their storylines converge, both Sarah and Madelyn must confront the far-reaching consequences of their choices.
Wakeman Cyr gives the reader two well drawn, multifaceted protagonists to root for and equally disarming, relatable secondary characters in Pleasant Bay. I found myself experiencing the characters' heartaches and joyful moments right along with them in the vividly detailed Cape Cod setting.
This book is now my favorite beach read, but it is so much more than that. Exploring the deep rooted bonds of family, the sometimes inevitable heartache of young love, and the ways in which we are able to grow and heal through love, loss, and fleeting second chances, Pleasant Bay is in my top favorite books of 2023.
I'll be watching for more from Emily Wakeman Cyr!
Pleasant Bay is told in alternating points of view between past and present. In 2002, young adult Sarah Harris seeks solace from heartache at her aunt's Cape Cod beach cottage, planning to work and help her financially hard hit family while saving some money for college. When she meets Luke, 21 year-old-Sarah isn't sure whether this man could be the love of her life, or just a summer love to remember.
Fast forward to Sarah and her 16-year-old daughter Madelyn, who is going through struggles of her own — an overworked and overprotective single mom who doesn’t approve of Madelyn’s older boyfriend and an absentee father her mom refuses divulge anything about.
When the friction between mother and daughter reaches a boiling point, Madelyn’s mom Sarah sends her to Cape Cod against her will to spend the summer with her grandmother, where she comes as close as she’s ever been to figuring out her father’s identity.
The two distinct voices/POV of Sarah and Madelyn are engaging and easy to follow and add an element of intrigue to the story. As their storylines converge, both Sarah and Madelyn must confront the far-reaching consequences of their choices.
Wakeman Cyr gives the reader two well drawn, multifaceted protagonists to root for and equally disarming, relatable secondary characters in Pleasant Bay. I found myself experiencing the characters' heartaches and joyful moments right along with them in the vividly detailed Cape Cod setting.
This book is now my favorite beach read, but it is so much more than that. Exploring the deep rooted bonds of family, the sometimes inevitable heartache of young love, and the ways in which we are able to grow and heal through love, loss, and fleeting second chances, Pleasant Bay is in my top favorite books of 2023.
I'll be watching for more from Emily Wakeman Cyr!
August 17, 2023
A light, teen romance, enjoyable summer read. Well written but predictable plot.
August 2, 2025
3.5 stars
Being a New Englander, I loved the setting of this novel. A bit predictable, but a cozy, well written beach read for sure!
Being a New Englander, I loved the setting of this novel. A bit predictable, but a cozy, well written beach read for sure!
December 31, 2023
Loved it, couldn’t put it down! When is the next book coming 😉
August 13, 2023
If you’re looking for a page turner with a great plot and easy to relate to characters, this is it. I appreciate Cyr’s style- witty and intelligent while capturing the essence of what it is to be a woman and a mom in her 30s!
November 22, 2023
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐚𝐲
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐄𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐖𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐲𝐫
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 - 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐰!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 Emily Wakeman Cyr 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚢 #𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢!
I visited Cape Cod for the first time this past summer with a group of amazing friends and it was such a unique and beautiful place. Reading Pleasant Bay transported me back to my time in Cape Cod and allowed me to experience all of its beauty again! Whether you are on the beach or looking for a book with beach vibes, I highly recommend Pleasant Bay!
Pleasant Bay is told in alternating points of view with two different timelines. In 2002, Sarah is a young adult who is staying with her aunt at her beach house in Cape Cod. Not only is Sarah recently heartbroken, but her father has been diagnosed with ALS and she is determined to help her family financially and also save money for college while working over the summer. Baseball is huge in Cape Cod and while at a game, Sarah meets Luke, originally from Australia and playing on a summer league. The two instantly hit it off and spend as much time as they can together between baseball and work. As the summer draws close to an end, will the two be able to continue their relationship?
In 2019, Madelyn is Sarah’s 16 year old daughter is also experiencing relationship trouble, while being raised by a single mother. With friction mounting between Madelyn and Sarah over Sarah not approving of her boyfriend and being too overprotective, Sarah decides to send Madelyn to Cape Cod for the summer to stay with her grandmother. While in Cape Cod, Madelyn is determined to find out the identity of her father. Will trying to uncover the truth of her father and her mothers past life tear Sarah and Madelyn further apart?
Pleasant Bay:
☀️Second Chance Romance
☀️Dual Timelines
☀️Multiple POVs
☀️Set in Cape Cod
☀️Family Drama
☀️Young Love
☀️Heartwarming
Pleasant Bay was seriously such a joy! It was so heartwarming and had me rooting for both Madelyn and Sarah. As someone who recently lost their father to ALS, I felt myself really connecting with Sarah and the changes she experienced as a young adult. This book made me feel so many emotions and really was so well done! If this one isn’t on your radar, it needs to be! After I finished, I couldn’t stop smiling!
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐄𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐖𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐲𝐫
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 - 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐍𝐨𝐰!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 Emily Wakeman Cyr 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚢 #𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢!
I visited Cape Cod for the first time this past summer with a group of amazing friends and it was such a unique and beautiful place. Reading Pleasant Bay transported me back to my time in Cape Cod and allowed me to experience all of its beauty again! Whether you are on the beach or looking for a book with beach vibes, I highly recommend Pleasant Bay!
Pleasant Bay is told in alternating points of view with two different timelines. In 2002, Sarah is a young adult who is staying with her aunt at her beach house in Cape Cod. Not only is Sarah recently heartbroken, but her father has been diagnosed with ALS and she is determined to help her family financially and also save money for college while working over the summer. Baseball is huge in Cape Cod and while at a game, Sarah meets Luke, originally from Australia and playing on a summer league. The two instantly hit it off and spend as much time as they can together between baseball and work. As the summer draws close to an end, will the two be able to continue their relationship?
In 2019, Madelyn is Sarah’s 16 year old daughter is also experiencing relationship trouble, while being raised by a single mother. With friction mounting between Madelyn and Sarah over Sarah not approving of her boyfriend and being too overprotective, Sarah decides to send Madelyn to Cape Cod for the summer to stay with her grandmother. While in Cape Cod, Madelyn is determined to find out the identity of her father. Will trying to uncover the truth of her father and her mothers past life tear Sarah and Madelyn further apart?
Pleasant Bay:
☀️Second Chance Romance
☀️Dual Timelines
☀️Multiple POVs
☀️Set in Cape Cod
☀️Family Drama
☀️Young Love
☀️Heartwarming
Pleasant Bay was seriously such a joy! It was so heartwarming and had me rooting for both Madelyn and Sarah. As someone who recently lost their father to ALS, I felt myself really connecting with Sarah and the changes she experienced as a young adult. This book made me feel so many emotions and really was so well done! If this one isn’t on your radar, it needs to be! After I finished, I couldn’t stop smiling!
April 30, 2024
A mother daughter generational story that explores family ties and giving second chances to those we love and cherish.
Summer 2002, Sarah spends the summer with her Aunt in Cape Cod to get away from the hardships of home, her father being sick, her brother getting deployed and her boyfriend breaking it off. She plans to work to make money for her last year at college but she also meets baseball player Luke and she falls in love. By the end of the summer he gets signed to play in the majors and his departure is abrupt. She tries to contact him but is unable to and then she learns she is pregnant.
Madelyn 2019 is a high school sophomore who is dating senior Connor and struggling to understand her mothers decisions. She wants to find out about her dad but her mom is tightlipped and secretive. As they continue to butt heads, her mom thinks it would be good for Madelyn to spend the summer at the Cape with her Gran. Sarah uncovers some information about her father and must decide if she wants to pursue finding him or if she should respect her mothers wishes.
I think this story will stay with me for a while. It is such a good reminder that nothing is irreparable and the people you love are never far away and will stay with you always. The characters were all going through their own struggles and they had to learn how to overcome them with the help of the people they love. The journey that they all are on was not only relatable but reminds you that everyone has to find their own way sometimes but they don't always have to do it alone. A perfect beach read!
Thank you Emily Wakeman Cyr for the audible book! The narrator, Sarah Wadsley, was perfect and she nailed that Aussie accent.
Notes:
This book was listened to through the Audible app
Author: Emily Wakeman Cyr- first time reader!
Genre: Romance, Family, second chances
Troupe: second chance romance, Pregnancy
Summer 2002, Sarah spends the summer with her Aunt in Cape Cod to get away from the hardships of home, her father being sick, her brother getting deployed and her boyfriend breaking it off. She plans to work to make money for her last year at college but she also meets baseball player Luke and she falls in love. By the end of the summer he gets signed to play in the majors and his departure is abrupt. She tries to contact him but is unable to and then she learns she is pregnant.
Madelyn 2019 is a high school sophomore who is dating senior Connor and struggling to understand her mothers decisions. She wants to find out about her dad but her mom is tightlipped and secretive. As they continue to butt heads, her mom thinks it would be good for Madelyn to spend the summer at the Cape with her Gran. Sarah uncovers some information about her father and must decide if she wants to pursue finding him or if she should respect her mothers wishes.
I think this story will stay with me for a while. It is such a good reminder that nothing is irreparable and the people you love are never far away and will stay with you always. The characters were all going through their own struggles and they had to learn how to overcome them with the help of the people they love. The journey that they all are on was not only relatable but reminds you that everyone has to find their own way sometimes but they don't always have to do it alone. A perfect beach read!
Thank you Emily Wakeman Cyr for the audible book! The narrator, Sarah Wadsley, was perfect and she nailed that Aussie accent.
Notes:
This book was listened to through the Audible app
Author: Emily Wakeman Cyr- first time reader!
Genre: Romance, Family, second chances
Troupe: second chance romance, Pregnancy
May 27, 2024
Dueling timelines that come together for a heartwarming story about lost love, growing up and finding yourself.
We meet Sarah in the summer of 2002 when she is staying at her aunt’s cottage on Pleasant Bay, in the Cape Cod region. Her path crosses with Luke, a baseball player in town for the summer league. They hit it off and spend the summer together falling in love but are too scared to ask each other what will happen when summer is over.
Fast forward to spring of 2019, where we meet Madelyn during her sophomore year of high school. She lives with her single mother and is growing more and more frustrated that her mother has never told her about her father. Madelyn and her mother, Sarah, get into a big fight about the identity of Madelyn’s father and Sarah decides to send Madelyn to Pleasant Bay to give them both space from the hurt they’ve caused one another over the past few months.
At her great aunt’s cottage, where her grandmother now lives as well, Madelyn is shown a scrapbook that reveals major clues to her father’s identity. She does some internet sleuthing and finds him on Facebook. She messages him that she believes he is her long-lost father, and he responds and says he is open to meeting.
Once reconnected, Sarah, Madelyn and Luke learn how to become a family, traversing through old wounds, regret, heartache, misconceptions, and even death.
I read this over two days, reading Part 2 in one afternoon. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and am drawn to stories that feature family secrets, father wounds, and beach vibes. Wakeman Cyr did an excellent job making you feel like you were there with them on Pleasant Bay and what was driving each character forward. The happy ending was nice, the book was clean (albeit for one steamy scene), and I highly recommend it for a pool/beach read or just a lazy afternoon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2024
I will accept ZERO criticisms for this book. I savored every minute of it and was devastated when it ended. "Pleasant Bay" by Emily Wakeman Cyr is so painfully & beautifully human. Five stars, hands down.
My heart was broken and healed at least three different times throughout this book. Love, heartbreak, what ifs, loss, family dynamics, healing, and hope were all topics exquisitely layered, throughout. I love that this book didn't just examine one thing-- it examined them all, because at the end of the day, humans are not linear nor simplistic. We are multifaceted beings with multifaceted choices, needs, emotions, and lives.
It was written so eloquently and I loved the symphony of gorgeous and relatable analogies + metaphors. It was hard to just pick one example, but here's one I related to:
"The events of the past year had left her damaged and broken, had cracked her open like an egg and spilled her vulnerabilities out for the world to see"
Life lessons were beautifully woven into the storyline without being preachy or pushy. Rather, they were laid before you, content to be picked up and held, or to just be a stepping stone in your reading journey.
"[A]s long as you have a solid foundation, the rest can be fixed. When you own a house, you expect to have to do some maintenance, right? You expect that some things are going to go wrong, and you're going to have to fix them. And in the end, you appreciate the house all the more because of the work you've put into it ... And the same goes for relationships."
‼️Bonus tropes include:
🩷 Beach read
🩷 Multigenerational
🩷 Baseball player
🩷 He cooks + takes care of her when she's sick
🩷 Dual timelines & POVs
🩷 Love wins
April 24, 2024
Thank you so much Emily Wakeman Cyr for the audio of this book! In exchange here is my honest review!
With summer approaching, I know y’all are looking for a beach read and look no further. THIS IS IT! Pleasant Bay is the best summer read. You have baseball, love, the beach, and family drama! While listening, I kept thinking this book would be perfect read on the beach or even by the pool!
The story goes back and forth between 2002 and 2019, giving us insight on Sara in 2002 and her daughter, Madelyn’s, insight present day, 2019.
It begins with Sara staying a whole month with her aunt Clara in Cape Cod to get away from the stressors life had caused her the last couple months. Between a break up, her brother leaving for the military and her dad becoming sick, she’s hoping this summer away will help her get back to her normal self.
Flash forward to present day 2019. Madelyn is also spending the summer in Cape Cod with her great aunt and grandmother, to give her mom a break. Madelyn is not happy with this decision and is annoyed that she will be away from her friends and boyfriend.
Now for the family drama, Madelyn has no idea who her father is and doesn’t understand why her mother won’t just tell her. She eventually takes matters into her hands and does what she needs to do to find the answers she’s seeking.
The character development of each character was amazing. The writing styles between the 2002 and 2019 were perfect to the time and characters life. This was my first ever Emily Wakeman Cyr book and it for sure won’t be my last!
Now off to order a physical copy of the book for my bookshelf!!
With summer approaching, I know y’all are looking for a beach read and look no further. THIS IS IT! Pleasant Bay is the best summer read. You have baseball, love, the beach, and family drama! While listening, I kept thinking this book would be perfect read on the beach or even by the pool!
The story goes back and forth between 2002 and 2019, giving us insight on Sara in 2002 and her daughter, Madelyn’s, insight present day, 2019.
It begins with Sara staying a whole month with her aunt Clara in Cape Cod to get away from the stressors life had caused her the last couple months. Between a break up, her brother leaving for the military and her dad becoming sick, she’s hoping this summer away will help her get back to her normal self.
Flash forward to present day 2019. Madelyn is also spending the summer in Cape Cod with her great aunt and grandmother, to give her mom a break. Madelyn is not happy with this decision and is annoyed that she will be away from her friends and boyfriend.
Now for the family drama, Madelyn has no idea who her father is and doesn’t understand why her mother won’t just tell her. She eventually takes matters into her hands and does what she needs to do to find the answers she’s seeking.
The character development of each character was amazing. The writing styles between the 2002 and 2019 were perfect to the time and characters life. This was my first ever Emily Wakeman Cyr book and it for sure won’t be my last!
Now off to order a physical copy of the book for my bookshelf!!
May 21, 2024
I really loved this book, it is THE perfect summer read!
If you love second chance, sports romance, found family, coming of age then this book is definitely for you.
From the first page our FMC Sarah completely drew me in and had me wanting to know what was going to happen in her life. As we started to get to know more about her, I really empathized with her and began routing for her. We watch as she struggles through finding herself, falling in love and completely think she has found "the one" and nothing could draw them apart. They seem like the perfect match and I absolutely loved them together.
Then we switch to present day with Sarah's daughter Madelyn and see life through her POV. I also really connected with Madelyn and enjoyed hearing about her life, I was definitely routing for her too. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect that we got with Madelyn, because she doesn't know who her dad is and her mom won't tell her about him. I think it was fun to try to guess exactly what had happened with that whole situation and how it was all going to turn out.
Then we also have our side character's, being Sarah's loving family and I completely adored them as well. This book was total found family, there wasn't one character I couldn't connect with on some level.
I don't want to give too much of the book away in this review, but I could just go on and on. The writing style was fantastic, it just pulled you in and brought you along so smoothly it didn't even feel like I was reading anymore, but that I was actually there. I would highly recommend this book and really feel like everyone could take something great away from this story!
If you love second chance, sports romance, found family, coming of age then this book is definitely for you.
From the first page our FMC Sarah completely drew me in and had me wanting to know what was going to happen in her life. As we started to get to know more about her, I really empathized with her and began routing for her. We watch as she struggles through finding herself, falling in love and completely think she has found "the one" and nothing could draw them apart. They seem like the perfect match and I absolutely loved them together.
Then we switch to present day with Sarah's daughter Madelyn and see life through her POV. I also really connected with Madelyn and enjoyed hearing about her life, I was definitely routing for her too. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect that we got with Madelyn, because she doesn't know who her dad is and her mom won't tell her about him. I think it was fun to try to guess exactly what had happened with that whole situation and how it was all going to turn out.
Then we also have our side character's, being Sarah's loving family and I completely adored them as well. This book was total found family, there wasn't one character I couldn't connect with on some level.
I don't want to give too much of the book away in this review, but I could just go on and on. The writing style was fantastic, it just pulled you in and brought you along so smoothly it didn't even feel like I was reading anymore, but that I was actually there. I would highly recommend this book and really feel like everyone could take something great away from this story!
March 5, 2026
Pleasant Bay by Emily Wakeman Cyr is a beautifully written novel that captures the emotional complexity of love, loss, and the lasting bonds between parents and children.
Set against the charming coastal backdrop of Cape Cod, the story unfolds across two timelines. In the summer of 2002, Sarah Harris arrives at Pleasant Bay carrying the weight of personal heartbreak and the lingering shadow of a difficult year. What begins as a quiet escape to rebuild her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Luke, a baseball player whose presence challenges her carefully laid plans.
Nearly two decades later, Sarah’s daughter Madelyn begins her own emotional journey as she searches for answers about the father she has never known. As the past and present gradually intertwine, the novel thoughtfully explores how choices made in one moment can echo across generations.
Emily Wakeman Cyr creates a warm and emotionally resonant story filled with authentic characters and meaningful reflections on forgiveness, growth, and the courage it takes to face the past.
Pleasant Bay is a touching and memorable read for those who appreciate character driven fiction, heartfelt romance, and stories about family, healing, and second chances.
Set against the charming coastal backdrop of Cape Cod, the story unfolds across two timelines. In the summer of 2002, Sarah Harris arrives at Pleasant Bay carrying the weight of personal heartbreak and the lingering shadow of a difficult year. What begins as a quiet escape to rebuild her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Luke, a baseball player whose presence challenges her carefully laid plans.
Nearly two decades later, Sarah’s daughter Madelyn begins her own emotional journey as she searches for answers about the father she has never known. As the past and present gradually intertwine, the novel thoughtfully explores how choices made in one moment can echo across generations.
Emily Wakeman Cyr creates a warm and emotionally resonant story filled with authentic characters and meaningful reflections on forgiveness, growth, and the courage it takes to face the past.
Pleasant Bay is a touching and memorable read for those who appreciate character driven fiction, heartfelt romance, and stories about family, healing, and second chances.
May 17, 2024
I enjoyed this story as an audiobook. The narrator was amazing. Not only does she have to do multiple accents but she also keeps up between all the characters. You can easily tell who is talking and the narrator’s peaceful voice truly made this story come to life.
Let me first start out with saying this is NOT a closed door romance. I wanted to make this clear since I normally read closed door romances but I didn’t realize this wasn’t one until it was too late. Now that I have that PSA out of the way…
This story was such an amazing blend. It started with a dual perspective of a daughter (Madeline) and past story from her mom (Sarah). Watching these two timelines and perspective seamlessly blend together was amazing. You got to see how we got to present day and what all shaped Sarah as a young adult. In the second part of the book we got to add in another perspective (Luke). These stories all blended together so nicely and I truly loved this story even though it wasn’t what I normally read. This was a triple pov, open door romance. With that being said the intimate scenes were very mild to moderate compared to most and there was only a few scenes in the whole book.
Let me first start out with saying this is NOT a closed door romance. I wanted to make this clear since I normally read closed door romances but I didn’t realize this wasn’t one until it was too late. Now that I have that PSA out of the way…
This story was such an amazing blend. It started with a dual perspective of a daughter (Madeline) and past story from her mom (Sarah). Watching these two timelines and perspective seamlessly blend together was amazing. You got to see how we got to present day and what all shaped Sarah as a young adult. In the second part of the book we got to add in another perspective (Luke). These stories all blended together so nicely and I truly loved this story even though it wasn’t what I normally read. This was a triple pov, open door romance. With that being said the intimate scenes were very mild to moderate compared to most and there was only a few scenes in the whole book.
January 21, 2024
This book gave all the feels! It brought me back to my relationship in high school that I thought would last forever and then looking back years later am so glad it didn’t. The ups and downs in the mother daughter relationship I could also relate to and I loved how they became closer as Madalyn got to know her dad. I loved how Sarah was encouraged to find herself outside of being a mother because it is so important to be your own person outside of your kids.
It started off a little slow and sad but got progressively better as it went on and had a wonderful ending wrapped up in a bow! And of course I love that the setting is at the beach.
“Because every time we mess it up, we’re going to make a choice to make it right. That’s what a relationship is, I think. Making the choice over and over again to keep loving each other, even when it’s hard.”
It started off a little slow and sad but got progressively better as it went on and had a wonderful ending wrapped up in a bow! And of course I love that the setting is at the beach.
“Because every time we mess it up, we’re going to make a choice to make it right. That’s what a relationship is, I think. Making the choice over and over again to keep loving each other, even when it’s hard.”
October 9, 2023
I loved this debut novel by Emily Wakeman Cyr! I was initially tempted to buy this to support a local Indie author, and I’m pleasantly surprised and look forward to reading more.
Pleasant Bay was told in parallel timelines, in the past we learn about Sarah’s journey and in present we learn about Madeline’s journey until they come crashing together in present day. The realistic/comprehensive family dynamics, Cape Cod setting, and Luke’s swoon-worthy character were icing on the cake for this contemporary romance.
As a reader who was a teenage Mom and now a woman in her thirties, who is beginning to question her path in life and finding true authentic happiness, I truly appreciated Claire’s character and Sarah’s growth.
Pleasant Bay was told in parallel timelines, in the past we learn about Sarah’s journey and in present we learn about Madeline’s journey until they come crashing together in present day. The realistic/comprehensive family dynamics, Cape Cod setting, and Luke’s swoon-worthy character were icing on the cake for this contemporary romance.
As a reader who was a teenage Mom and now a woman in her thirties, who is beginning to question her path in life and finding true authentic happiness, I truly appreciated Claire’s character and Sarah’s growth.
September 23, 2025
Pleasant Bay by Emily Wakeman Cyr is a heartfelt second-chance romance that reminds us to take care of ourselves, follow our dreams, and embrace what makes us truly happy.
Sarah and Luke’s summer romance on Cape Cod ended when he left for baseball. Years later, Sarah’s daughter Madelyn spends a summer with her great-aunt and uncovers the truth about her father through an old scrapbook.
The reunion between Sarah and Luke isn’t easy, but the story is told with warmth and depth. It’s a beautiful reminder that timing matters, choosing yourself is powerful, and sometimes love comes full circle when the moment is right.
Sarah and Luke’s summer romance on Cape Cod ended when he left for baseball. Years later, Sarah’s daughter Madelyn spends a summer with her great-aunt and uncovers the truth about her father through an old scrapbook.
The reunion between Sarah and Luke isn’t easy, but the story is told with warmth and depth. It’s a beautiful reminder that timing matters, choosing yourself is powerful, and sometimes love comes full circle when the moment is right.
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July 25, 2025Zero stars. Not sure which is more disappointing, the fact that every single sentence and every single character and every single page and every single scene is a hackneyed trope, a cliched phrase and an obvious approach. Not sure which is worse, the fact that this writer thought they had enough to say without an editor or that she is teaching young people the skill of writing. It’s obvious she poured her heart into this project, but it should have stayed in that Google doc.
April 22, 2024
I loved Pleasant Bay. It gave me Elin Hilderbrand vibes (think 28 Summers, but sub Cape Cod instead of Nantucket) The story is different, but tone and writing style similar in a way I love. It starts following 2 time lines until the story comes together. Great summer beach read!
I received a copy of this book to review, all opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book to review, all opinions are my own.
July 21, 2025
Such a sweet book! I loved the characters and the storyline. The two separate stories, past and present, wove together how similar Mom and daughter truly are.
Also love that this author is local and I got her book from her bookstore!! If you need a good summer romance to read of the beach, look no further!
Also love that this author is local and I got her book from her bookstore!! If you need a good summer romance to read of the beach, look no further!
September 25, 2023
I started this book and could NOT put it down. I found it to be very well written and I loved the two timelines. Sometimes as parents, it's hard to remember what we went through before becoming parents and you get a front row seat in this novel. I can't wait to read more books from this author.
December 26, 2023
I just finished this book in one sitting. Granted, it occupied half of my time during a 12 hour road trip, but it made the hours fly! I really enjoyed the characters and plot. I recommend it if you’re looking for a light feel good book. It’s refreshing to have a positive ending once in awhile.
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