In this new novel from the author of Ten Beach Road and Ocean Beach, three unlikely friends who were thrown together by disaster get a do-over on life, love, and happiness . . . Maddie, Avery, and Nikki first got to know one another—perhaps all too well—while desperately restoring a beachfront mansion to its former grandeur. Now they’re putting that experience to professional use. But their latest project has presented some challenges they couldn’t have dreamed up in their wildest fantasies—although the house does belong to a man who actually was Maddie’s wildest fantasy once . . .Rock-and-roll legend “William the Wild” Hightower may be past his prime, estranged from his family, and creatively blocked, but he’s still worshiped by fans—which is why he guards his privacy on his own island in the Florida Keys. He’s not thrilled about letting this crew turn his piece of paradise into a bed-and-breakfast for a reality show . . . though he is intrigued by Maddie. Hard as that is for her to believe as a newly single woman who can barely manage a dog paddle in the dating pool.But whether it’s an unexpected flirtation with a bona fide rock star, a strained mother-daughter relationship, or a sudden tragedy, these women are in it together. The only thing that might drive them apart is being trapped on a houseboat with one bathroom . . .
I write novels that explore friendship, self-discovery and the challenges life brings us, leavened with a touch of humor. I'm proud of all my books and perhaps best known for my "Ten Beach Road" titles including the USA Today bestsellers, Ten Beach Road and The House on Mermaid Point, and for While We Were Watching Downton Abbey.
I was born in St.Petersburg, Florida and grew up on St. Pete Beach within spitting distance of the Gulf of Mexico. I went, appropriately enough, to Sunshine Elementary School where recess and art class sometimes took place on the beach, and the highlight of every school year was the annual fish broil.
It’s hard to be a type-A personality when you grow up in such a laid back environment, but I managed. Convinced that you were expected to know how to read BEFORE you showed up for school, I forced a neighbor friend to teach me to read at the age of five. I’ve been reading ever since.
Books, in all forms, are one of my greatest pleasures and best forms of escape. And they’ve had a major impact on my life.
I went to the University of Georgia after reading Gone with the Wind one too many times. For a while I re-read Margaret Mitchell’s classic yearly, saw the movie whenever it played within twenty miles, and could quote large passages from memory. Today I have a growing GWTW collection, and the time I spoke at he Margaret Mitchell House was an incredible thrill.last
After college I worked in radio, television, and film. Like Olivia in 7 DAYS AND SEVEN NIGHTS, I’ve done live talk radio. I hosted a show in the eighties called Desperate & Dateless, and while I was never locked in an apartment for a week with a webcam rolling as she was, I did fall in love. Happily, the man who swept me off my feet consults with financial types and understands the bottom line. Unlike Olivia’s nemesis, Matt Ransom, my husband has never, to my knowledge, advised anyone to ‘love the one they’re with.’ We live in Atlanta with our two sons.
Love the premise. Loved the first book, but my enthusiasm is waning as the series goes on. I was initially drawn to Ten Beach Road by the mix of "he done her wrong" mystery and home renovation diary, all set in a southern Florida setting. Perfect beach read. But as the characters become broader, the situations more absurd and the plot lines and writing increasingly formulaic and repetitive (how many times is Wendy. Wax going to talk about a lover "cupping her buttocks"? I swear it's a phrase used in every single romantic scenario - he couldn't pinch, grab or swat her rear, ass, or butt? Why is it always "cupping" and "buttocks."?), I'm losing patience and my willingness to suspend not just disbelief but reason. Which is a shame, because the story and the characters -- many of whom receive scant attention in this outing - deserve better. That having been said, I would read the next installment of the series hoping for better results or, at the very least, a few different turns of phrase.
Wendy Wax is the Queen of Do Over! As you can see by my reviews—have read every book in this incredible Ten Beach Road series and each, A 5-Star Winner; however, I believe THE HOUSE ON MERMAID POINT is my favorite thus far!
From the stunning front cover (hats off to the designer) to the last page— these characters grab you by the heart and do not let go for a page-turner. A group of kick-ass, talented, and smart women, you will grow to love, for a must read series. Ten Beach Road, Ocean Beach, Christmas at the Beach, and The House on Mermaid Point, (you have to read them all)!
Wendy Wax has found her calling! Humor, wit, interior design, architecture, reality TV, renovations, fun girl time, celebrities, sexy tropical locations, beautiful homes, hot men, good food and drink, and juicy love connections (what is not to love)?
A well written, much-loved series of transformations and peeling back of the layers of not only homes, and mansions, but the personal lives of those involved.
Even though I love all the women, Maddie is a very special woman, at age 51, many readers will relate to her, as I did. The self-confidence and image factor, in an age of dating when compared to younger women, especially when they have given their life to their former husband, now divorced, having spent their life raising a family.
Was super glad THE HOUSE ON MERMAID POINT offered Maddie some limelight, and happiness, as she is the rock of the crew and her relationship with Hot William was dynamite (please let this couple continue), as they are not done—they sizzle!
Wow, William was such an interesting powerful and sexy character (former rock star musician) and loved seeing his transformation. His relationship with his son Tommy was very similar to the parent-child dynamic between Deirdre and Avery. A story of redemption, loss, and love—priceless!
Do Over is the show at the core of the story; however, each of the women’s lives (Kyra, Nichole, Avery, Deirdre, and Maddie) have been on a long journey filled with obstacles, and frustrations, as well as bonding and a great sense of accomplishment.
Each of these women from their twenties to sixties have faced challenges which have led to self-discovery as they have grown in so many ways. And oh, the banter between sweet little Dustin and William melts your heart!
Wendy, please do not let the series end! Rooting for Hot William and Maddie to continue on . . . Islamorada was a perfect setting for this book and the surprise ending, as one of my favorite spots in the Florida Keys!
Possibly the reason I loved this book the most, could be due following these lovable characters from the beginning. Plus having lived and worked in Islamorada, and the Florida Keys selling real estate opening two projects: A waterfront marina club (condos for boats) and a condo hotel, from construction to completion, with much knowledge of all the fishing, reefs, boating, marinas, and all the hot spots and attractions mentioned in the book.
I know the true beauty of the area firsthand, of course, Checca Lodge, Moorings Village and Spa, Cottages, Pierre's and Morada Bay Beach Café are my favorites,as have experienced many sunsets on the Adirondack chairs with my feet in the sand and a glass of wine—it is heaven and could image myself there with the ladies--They love their sunrises and sunsets.
Wendy does an outstanding job with all the local descriptions and would love to see a movie based on this book! Can you imagine the cast?
Even though I visit the west coast of Florida often, the east coast is still my home. It was so much fun revisiting mentions: Lazy Days, Bud n Mary’s, Robbie’s, Theatre of the Sea, Hog Heaven Sports Bar & Grill, Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar... and boy was it hard to get contractors to work on a beautiful day when they call in sick to go fishing! And is heck traveling to Miami on your day off if you want to go shopping, can relate. . .
Readers will love revisiting with Bella Flora, Chase, Joe, and of course the nightly chardonnay and cheese doodles! Yes, it was that good!
Rich descriptive details bring the setting alive, the character development was deeply satisfying, and while every little detail was not tidied up and made into 'happily ever after', each woman was on a satisfying journey and the place they found themselves in was perfect for now.
I do so hope we will have further adventures with this group of women.
All of the ladies are on the set of their newest reality show home makeover and the owner, ex- bad boy Rock and Roll Legend William Hightower, just fresh from rehab is not at all welcoming. "William The Wild" as he was once called, is hiding from life, his fans that still adore him and trying to forget his more than troubled past. Maddie had a huge crush on him when she was a teenager, I love the interaction between these two characters, you can actually feel the heat between them! William Hightower is my all time favorite character created by Wendy Wax, so a big thank-you to Wendy for creating Will, when you read this book you will understand what I mean, I may have a crush on him too!
This is a great book to read by the pool, I actually did that and could not put this book down, take to the beach or just read it wherever you can. This series is by far one of my all time favorites to date, the story line is fresh and the characters have grown even more endearing and interesting with each new book in this series . There is also a surprising twist to the end of this book.This review was originally posted on Fictional Reviewer
The gal pals are back together! This time in Key West and working with rockstar William the Wild. I liked the t his new character and lucky Maddie! Since I just visited the Keys I enjoyed the setting!
This is poorly written, from the very first chapter. I couldn't believe that it actually has mostly positive reviews here. Mildly entertaining as a beach read.
Poor Maddie! 50 and single...again. Divorce sucks. She and her gal pals Avery and Nikki are off to an island in Florida to redo a house as a bed and breakfast. Who do they meet? Yes, a music God just leaving rehab that just wants peace and quiet on his island.
As you may guess opposites attract and Maddie and "Wild Will" can't leave each other alone. They are a bit out of practice so they fumble and stutter and basically make things humorous.
The other women add a bit of spice and keep expected jokes and situations coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Maddie, Nicole and Avery became friends after losing everything they had to a ponzi scheme. In order to build their finances up again, they decide to accept the offer of renewing old homes into something modern for a television show. Their latest assignment is in the Florida Keys; the home of William Hightower, a former rocker known as “William the Wild.” They’re there to turn his house into a bed-and-breakfast. He’s not happy about the idea; in fact, he wants them gone. But having blown all his money and just getting out of rehab, he doesn’t have a choice. What he doesn’t count on, though, is that Maddie’s being there just might help him stay on the straight and narrow, and find himself again.
Now the bad: The book sounded interesting from the blurb; but there are times when it can be misleading. This was one of them. Some things I just didn’t understand: Avery is an architect, but she actually wears a toolbelt and hard hat and does the work herself. I have a friend who’s an architect, and years ago I worked for one. Normally, they don’t do the work (unless it’s actually their own home). So, if Avery is doing the construction part, I would really have liked to know her background. We know that her father owned a construction company, but it doesn’t make her a contractor. (I could be wrong, but personally, I’ve never known an architect that did the construction also).
Here’s the big thing: In my opinion, the book was a little too focused on Dustin, the child of Kyra and married actor Dan Deranian. I don’t read tabloids, but I know enough that they’re not covered in photos of children of celebrities. I can’t even imagine it being so huge the paparazzi would be taking hours upon hours of film of the child just to increase ratings. You might want to see a famous actor/actress, but their children? According to this book, Dustin is a big part of the show. Really? I found it just too hard to believe. The way actors/actresses cheat on their spouses, it’s not a big deal to see the resulting child. And I’ve yet to see paparazzi chasing them down every minute of the day. In fact, I would guess that photographers would stay away from this kind of thing. And what kind of a mother does it make Kyra that she would basically put her child on a television show as if he were some kind of exhibit? The producers says to make sure ‘they get lots of shots of Dustin.’ Who is this actor? Some kind of god that his child is the Favored One? I just didn’t get that storyline at all. Plus the fact that he’s a child who can’t even enunciate his words and they have him on a jobsite. Yeah, that works. It’s also like a daily reminder that Dan cheated on his wife. That’s going to help the marriage (and humiliate his wife constantly). Somehow, I don’t think the press wants to alienate movie stars. Besides, in the real world, if Kyra was exploiting her son for money, Dan would probably file for custody saying she was an unfit mother – and win.
As if that weren’t enough, supposedly when they renovated the house of a former vaudvillian, Max Golden, something happened. The show is being run on network television, and they all sit down to watch. Well, there’s a scene where someone is shooting at Kyra and Dustin, and Max jumps in front of Dustin and he gets shot. And killed, and they show that and the body being taken away. And they show this on TV. On network TV, no less. I’m no expert, but I’m pretty sure they don’t show someone being murdered on television. I’m pretty sure that episode never would have aired. There are people across the country who wouldn’t want to see that, you know. (Can’t you see the TV Guide: Tonight on Do Over: Max Golden gets killed. Tune in at 8). How would you promo that one? They might do a tribute, but…
The last thing is that this book is obviously part of a series. You’re given enough information to know that, but you really need to begin at the first one to get the whole picture, and the ending leaves you hanging, so that you have to read the next in the series (not that it doesn’t resolve some things; it does, but there are new questions that aren’t answered).
So, in my opinion, read this if you’re already into the series. If not, it’s up to you if you want. I just couldn’t buy the whole Dustin-is-the-best-thing-that-ever-happened idea. Or the fact that they show a death on television. No offense to the author, who is usually better than this, but it just didn’t make sense.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
This is pretty consistent with the other books in the series. 3.5 stars. Not my favorite series but its good. In this one, the girls are assigned to a house on Mermaid Point. It's a little island in Florida owned by a former rock star named Will. He has stopped making music and is kind of a recluse and his son wants his property to be turned into a bed and breakfast so they can start making money again. There is the usual antics with the show's producers giving them not enough money and too tight of time constraints for the sake of drama. I thought this book ended with an emotional punch that was good and I'm excited to see whats next for the ladies...
SPOILERS AHEAD: The girls get assigned to Mermaid Point where former rocker Will lives. From the beginning its clear that he and Maddie are going to hook up. Her husband is dating someone else and they're completely separated so its inevitable and it does happen midway through the book. However, then he says its not a big deal, she freaks out, but in the end he realizes how much he loves her and he starts writing music again for her. He doesn't want the property to be a bed and breakfast but instead turns it into a rehab facility of sorts because he is a former drug addict, etc. He and his son work on their relationship through the book and that was nice to see. Nikki and Joe (the FBI agent) are getting more and more serious. He wants marriage but she doesn't. In the end, she warms up to the idea. Avery and Chase are still in a relationship but not much is said about it. He helps a little on the project and they are still just doing their thing. Deirdre is there and she and Avery finally start getting closer. They are the dream team of Avery doing the construction and Deirdre doing the interior design but in the end Deirdre has a massive stroke and dies. Avery is so sad and is given letters her mom wrote while she was MIA growing up. She realizes that her mom was a lot better than she thought. Finally, Kyra is there with Dustin (her son) and not much happens. She sleeps with Daniel (the movie star) again while he's got Dustin on visitation and I was so mad! She's half and half between knowing he's no good and being a swoony girl and I hate it. He and his mean wife bought Bella Flora (the original house that they loved so much) but in the end he gives it to Kyra as a place to raise Dustin so all of the women are heading back. The show's producer leaves so the girls are either done with the show or have to find a different way to get it produced. It looks like they're going to self produce so they can do what they want, but regardless you know its going to continue because there are more books! Excited to read on!
The ladies of Do Over were asking, and waiting for the network to answer this very question. We revisit with some of our favorite characters Maddie, Kyra, Dustin, Nikki, and Deirdre; in Wendy Wax’s book The House at Mermaid Point. Get your tools, some sunscreen, and luggage and head to the Isle of Mermaid Point.
Synopsis:
Maddie, Kyra, Dustin, Avery, Nikki, and Deirdre prepare for their next assignment with Do Over. It is a reality television show they are all under contract to Lifetime network. The head of the network Lisa Hogan enjoys humiliating them in some way during each assignment. The Maddie and the rest of the group thought this would be a home improvement show rather than reality television. William Hightower has just left rehab. His son informs him that changes will be made to his father Wild William Hightower’s life. The plan is for William’s residence to become a bed and breakfast for him to earn more income. They sign on with the idea of participating in this Do Over for a discount on the renovations. Will the network succeed in making it happen? Does William Hightower find more in his future than a bed and breakfast?
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book! Wendy Wax has a way of writing her books that make them such easy reads. I also listened to it, and Amy Rubinate did a fabulous job of bringing all the characters to life. The story is set in Mermaid Point down in the Florida Keys. I loved being back with some of my favorite characters. I felt there was one character that I was most proud of it would be Maddie. Her character really blossomed in this book.
One spoiler I loved how she told off her ex-husband. The next book in the series is Sunshine Beach.
The perfect beach book - or the perfect book to make you feel like you're at the beach.
I loved The House on Mermaid Point. The women find themselves intrigued and challenged by the new project on the private island. They’re all getting along better than ever which helps when it comes to tackling the renovation as well as personal issues. With each renovation project the women have experienced personal growth and become more confident.
In this book, Madeline shines as she overcomes her shyness and reaches out to help the owner of the island, William. But will she be glad she took the chance? Deirdre and Avery (mother and daughter) are getting along better than they’d ever thought possible. Maddy’s grown daughter Kyra and her toddler son, Dustin, continue to try to ignore the paparazzi who hound them in hopes of getting photos. Dustin’s father is a famous film star that Kyra met on a movie project. Nicole is still in love with Joe but, given her two failed marriages, doesn’t want to marry him.
On top of all they’re going through they are expected to reno the buildings on the island in a few short months – the hottest months of the year. I loved how Wendy Wax brought the women back together and through the project. Their television show is titled Do Over - and, to a certain extent, that’s what each of the characters is doing with her life. The House on Mermaid Point is an entertaining novel that packs an emotional punch and left me hoping for another Florida project for the women ASAP.
Back in my happy place with Do Over crew Maddie, Avery, Nikki, Kyra and Deidre ... I keep saying these women could renovate a garbage can and I'd be along for the ride.
I love the reno/rehabbing details, the beautifully described surrounds, sunrises and sunsets. Most of all I love the womens' personal do-overs, their growth individually and in their relationships. Read the books in order and you see that progression, feel their frustration, laugh and cry with them, cheer them on.
Their latest assignment in Florida Keys is the run down estate of former rocker, William Hightower aka William the Wild. I honestly didn't think the whole aging rock star - ego -rehab - recovering alcoholic 'thing' would do it for me but I'm happy to admit I was sooo wrong, and I loved that the spotlight was on Maddie in this installment.
This series is all about transformations ... The House on Mermaid Point takes an unexpected sad turn, an emotionally real one but through laughs and tears, I'm hooked. I love these women and I love their connection ... can't wait to see what they're up to next.
PS Booyah! for the *up yours* to bitch production head Lisa Hogan :)
I enjoyed this book, the same as I enjoyed the first 2 in this trilogy + a novella, although I'm hoping the author writes another in this series as I enjoy the settings and the characters. This is a book about women's friendships, house renovation, reality TV, romance - endings and beginnings of, relationships between Moms and daughters, sisters and brothers, moms and son, paparazzi, celebrity and just life in general at different stages. Enjoyable read!
This is such a good series. There is so much going on in these books and the side stories are as good as the whole story. I think there are so many ways for this series to go at the the conclusion of this book that we could go on for a good long time. I have the rest of the series in my TBR mountain and I'm looking forward to where we are going.
After losing all their money in a Ponzi scheme, Maddie, Nicole, Avery, Kyra and Deirdre stick together to survive.........the 3rd in the "Ten Beach Road Series". Really enjoyed the story and the characters.
I love the books is this wonderful series! The characters are and feel like they’re my friends. The storyline is entertaining and with enough twists and turns to keep my interest. And the series is set in Florida where I live. Love the series and highly recommend it. 😃❤️. And not a murder mystery either, something different to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This novel is the third in a series which are best read in order. I enjoyed the story simply because I like the Florida Keys, which is the main setting. The plot centers around an HGTV type show being filmed there and all of the romantic issues. It was a nice, light summer story.
Great read! Loved the remodel them and all the twists and turns with the women and the famous rockstar of the past. Ending was a surprise and didnt see coming. Wendy Wax does it again!
Wow! It felt so good to be back with these five ladies and watching them redo another south Florida estate. Deidre and Avery (mother and daughter) have finally found their place in each other's lives; Kyra and her toddler son Dustin are cute as ever; Nicole is the grounding one; Madeline shines in this installment! I really loved the private island setting; the "old" rocker trying to find his place post-rehab as well as his relationship with his son. Of course, the side cast of characters are great! This was a good read!
Well, it's finally over. I started it on vacation and now I've finally completed this slogging mess of a beach read. I don't normally have a problem with details as long as they add something to the overall setting or characters but when its2shat they're eating every minute of every day, or what they're wearing? What a waste. I'm a crier. I didn't cry at the end. Didn't shed a tear. I didn't care how awful William acted. I didn't lose a minute's sleep over whether Chase would give up on the blonde, or Joe and Nicole would weather through. There were so many characters and so much crap going on, it was hard to stay focused on the theme. I guess it didn't help that this is part of a series, I could have followed better had I read the (no doubt mottled) previous books, but I can't fathom the thought that I would have gone on to read this one. Thank God I didn't buy it when I first saw it, I waited for it on my Kindle so I know I paid less than $2 for it. But I still lost my time.
Right off I have to say I have two regrets, one is that I regret that this is my first Wendy Wax book and the second is I wish I had read Ten Beach Road first now I have to read that one to see how these four amazing women because friends and what troubles brought them together. I loved The House on Mermaid Point from the very beginning, it is packed with every emotion that a woman can have and these ladies can handle just about anything that comes their way, from a difficult producer of the tv show they are part of called Do Over to a rock-and-roll legend. I have to say tho be prepared to laugh, have a little anger and cry because that's what I did. I'm ending with this short review because you really need to read The House on Mermaid Point to enjoy like I did.. I will be reading more from Wendy Wax, very talented writer!
The won this book in a Goodreads contest from the author and was very excited when I received this. I have read the first two books in this series and again enjoyed these women. The struggles again help the become closer friends all the while they remodel famous homes. Thanks Goodreads!
Mermaid point belongs to rock-and roll legend William the Will. His Son has arranged for a crew of women to turn his home into a bed-and-breakfast for a reality show. All of the people involved have relationship issues which makes the book interesting to read. I won this book on goodreads.
Another enjoyable read in the "Beach" series by Wendy Wax. In this third book in the series, the first season of "Do Over" is about to air but in the meantime, the network has lined up another mystery remodeling project for Maddie, Avery, Nicole, Kira and Deirdre to tackle.
After being told to meet at a rendezvous point in the Florida Keys, the women, toddler Dustin, and the ever present camera crew are whisked to the private island of aging (and fresh out of rehab again) rock star William Hightower. Once on top of the charts, William now finds himself struggling financially and at the mercy of the "Do Over" cast to revitalize his sanctuary into a bed and breakfast, courtesy of his estranged son.
This book didn't have the drama of the first two and was a bit more mundane. Having read part of the preview for the 4th book not knowing it was the 4th book, there was a romance aspect to this one I already knew was going to develop so that wasn't a surprise. And just when I thought this one was going to end without any drama, there was a dramatic (and sad) twist at the very end that has me curious as to how the next book will play out.
Overall, another pretty quick read in this series and a nice "visit" with characters I enjoy. I did find Nicole kind of just fades into the background again in this one so it would be nice to see her get a bit more page time to make her a bit more equal to the other characters. And there were a couple of things that could have been edited better I thought - for example, the people buying the Singer's house in Atlanta want to close quickly to move in before school starts. Understandable, except it's revealed the couple buying the house is still pregnant with their first kid. I can understand wanting to get into a good school district but I think if the kid isn't even born yet, you've got some time!
I do wish this series would be adapted for TV though as it would be fun to see the houses come to life on the screen rather than just inside my head.