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Thuiskomen in Brightwater Bay
Op papier heeft Merina Wilde het voor een succesvolle carrière als romanschrijver, een bruisend sociaal leven en een man die haar adoreert. Maar Merry heeft een ze is de magie van het schrijven kwijt. Wat ze ook probeert, haar verhalen sprankelen niet meer. En terwijl ze de ene na de andere deadline mist, valt haar privéleven in duigen. Alex laat weten dat hij de toekomst toch anders ziet dan zij en plotseling is Merry single, voor het eerst sinds… nou ja, ooit.
In een poging haar leven weer op de rails te krijgen ruilt Merry London in voor de Orkney eilanden, waar ze zichzelf opsluit in een cottage boven een klif. Hier probeert ze haar hart te helen en haar passie voor het schrijven terug te vinden. Maar kunnen de schoonheid van het eiland en de goedheid van de bewoners Merry overhalen om weer in de liefde te geloven, al is het maar zolang het nodig is om haar boek af te schrijven? Of is het tijd voor iets heel nieuws…?
In een poging haar leven weer op de rails te krijgen ruilt Merry London in voor de Orkney eilanden, waar ze zichzelf opsluit in een cottage boven een klif. Hier probeert ze haar hart te helen en haar passie voor het schrijven terug te vinden. Maar kunnen de schoonheid van het eiland en de goedheid van de bewoners Merry overhalen om weer in de liefde te geloven, al is het maar zolang het nodig is om haar boek af te schrijven? Of is het tijd voor iets heel nieuws…?
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2023
36 people are currently reading
734 people want to read
About the author
Holly Hepburn
97 books400 followersI’ve wanted to write books for adults for as long as I can remember but I was too scared to try. One day I decided to be brave and dipped a toe into the bubble bath of romantic comedy with my first novella, Cupidity, and I’ve never looked back. I often try to be funny to be funny, except for when faced with traffic wardens and border control staff. My favourite thing is making people smile.
I’ve tried many jobs over the years, from barmaid to market researcher and I even had a brief flirtation with modelling. These days I am mostly found writing.
I live near London with my grey tabby cat, Portia. We both have an unhealthy obsession with Marmite.
I’ve tried many jobs over the years, from barmaid to market researcher and I even had a brief flirtation with modelling. These days I am mostly found writing.
I live near London with my grey tabby cat, Portia. We both have an unhealthy obsession with Marmite.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
January 21, 2021
The best thing about reading is that even when we are in lockdown we can discover so many new places we never even knew existed and that is exactly what happened when I got swept away in Holly Hepburn’s new release Coming Home to Brightwater Bay.
What makes this book even better is that our main character Merry is an author and Merry is struggling with writers block along with a breakdown of her relationship. An opportunity to escape everything and to attempt to find her love of writing and some inspiration arises with a Writer in Residence retreat to the Orkney Islands, but will the words flow and will she find more than she hoped in Brightwater Bay?
As much as I love reading I am also interested in the author journey, how they find inspiration for their novels, the research they take to make their stories come to life and the pressures of deadlines and writers block that the majority of authors face at some point and so this book was an absolute dream to read because we follow Merry through each of these points and I found it really insightful.
I was blown away by the animals and places the author introduces us to in this novel and I was completely shocked that I had never even heard of Skara Brae, I instantly found myself Googling the place just to check that it was real and it is now somewhere I am desperate to explore myself after lockdown. The way Holly Hepburn describes each place she visits made them so alluring, they were easy to visualise.
There is a love triangle (at one point a square!) that added to this already wonderful storyline and I never quite knew if Merry’s heart was going to be stolen by the steamy Magnus or the dependable sexy librarian Niall or if indeed romance would truly blossom at all and the suspense of this only added to my enjoyment of the storyline.
There is a wonderful community spirit bringing so many friendly characters together and they all helped Merry in one way or another during her stay. Although the book was released in four parts I am pleased I waited to read the whole book as one as I don’t think I could have waited for each part to be released!
What makes this book even better is that our main character Merry is an author and Merry is struggling with writers block along with a breakdown of her relationship. An opportunity to escape everything and to attempt to find her love of writing and some inspiration arises with a Writer in Residence retreat to the Orkney Islands, but will the words flow and will she find more than she hoped in Brightwater Bay?
As much as I love reading I am also interested in the author journey, how they find inspiration for their novels, the research they take to make their stories come to life and the pressures of deadlines and writers block that the majority of authors face at some point and so this book was an absolute dream to read because we follow Merry through each of these points and I found it really insightful.
I was blown away by the animals and places the author introduces us to in this novel and I was completely shocked that I had never even heard of Skara Brae, I instantly found myself Googling the place just to check that it was real and it is now somewhere I am desperate to explore myself after lockdown. The way Holly Hepburn describes each place she visits made them so alluring, they were easy to visualise.
There is a love triangle (at one point a square!) that added to this already wonderful storyline and I never quite knew if Merry’s heart was going to be stolen by the steamy Magnus or the dependable sexy librarian Niall or if indeed romance would truly blossom at all and the suspense of this only added to my enjoyment of the storyline.
There is a wonderful community spirit bringing so many friendly characters together and they all helped Merry in one way or another during her stay. Although the book was released in four parts I am pleased I waited to read the whole book as one as I don’t think I could have waited for each part to be released!
January 13, 2021
This was originally published in 4 parts and now made into 1 full book which I loved.
We meet Merry a best selling author, who has writer's block, after a break up Merry decides to take the position of Artist in Residence on the Orkney Island for 6 months and leaves Chiswick behind and needs the change to get back her mojo.
While in Orkney she meets two very different men and gets the inspiration she needs, will Merry ever want to go back to London?
A funny read, beautiful settings. Orkney sounds just stunning.
I really enjoyed reading this one and really felt as if I was there.
We meet Merry a best selling author, who has writer's block, after a break up Merry decides to take the position of Artist in Residence on the Orkney Island for 6 months and leaves Chiswick behind and needs the change to get back her mojo.
While in Orkney she meets two very different men and gets the inspiration she needs, will Merry ever want to go back to London?
A funny read, beautiful settings. Orkney sounds just stunning.
I really enjoyed reading this one and really felt as if I was there.
January 1, 2021
What a lovely gentle and charming book this was.
Originally published in 4 novellas, I have read the complete combined version but could easily see how each novella would have worked well by itself. Each part focuses around a particular event from Merry's 6 month writer in residence programme in Orkney.
Merina needed a change of everything after Alex suddenly breaks up with her, and she is deep within the grips of writers block, and she hopes applying for and taking on 6 months in Orkney will inspire her to write again.
I loved seeing the Orkney Islands through Merina and Niall's eyes, their enthusiasm for the area really shines through, and I really got a feel for them and their history.
Oooh and there is a sexy viking too, and even a trip to a distillery! I loved seeing how Merina's confidence grew as the months went past. Her inability to say no to Sheila has her starting to run, and for longer distances than she would have ever imagined. Then there is Gordon who is a surprise neighbour and utterly adorable and hilarious!
There is just such warmth in these pages of the characters for each other. There is a real community on the island and the sunsets sounded gorgeous. Merina even had a chance to see a natural phenomena which lead to me being very jealous of her!
It's such a lovely story, it I couldn't help smiling throughout reading it. Plenty of varying storylines, and each part does indeed work on its own, although I'd recommend reading the whole book in one go, as its far more enjoyable that way!
Thank you to Random Things Tours for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Originally published in 4 novellas, I have read the complete combined version but could easily see how each novella would have worked well by itself. Each part focuses around a particular event from Merry's 6 month writer in residence programme in Orkney.
Merina needed a change of everything after Alex suddenly breaks up with her, and she is deep within the grips of writers block, and she hopes applying for and taking on 6 months in Orkney will inspire her to write again.
I loved seeing the Orkney Islands through Merina and Niall's eyes, their enthusiasm for the area really shines through, and I really got a feel for them and their history.
Oooh and there is a sexy viking too, and even a trip to a distillery! I loved seeing how Merina's confidence grew as the months went past. Her inability to say no to Sheila has her starting to run, and for longer distances than she would have ever imagined. Then there is Gordon who is a surprise neighbour and utterly adorable and hilarious!
There is just such warmth in these pages of the characters for each other. There is a real community on the island and the sunsets sounded gorgeous. Merina even had a chance to see a natural phenomena which lead to me being very jealous of her!
It's such a lovely story, it I couldn't help smiling throughout reading it. Plenty of varying storylines, and each part does indeed work on its own, although I'd recommend reading the whole book in one go, as its far more enjoyable that way!
Thank you to Random Things Tours for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 29, 2021
Merry is a successful writer but is suffering from a lack of inspiration to start writing again. She should look no further than the beautiful Orkney Island and the way she seems to have with men. Split into four parts the second is shortest but brilliant with the whiskey dillestry and the forth my favourite finishing off nicely.
Merry has three men interested in the same way but very different too.
Alex the first love the childhood sweetheart dumps her after fifteen nearly sixteen years. The woman at the table was right it may not have felt like it at the time but it was the best thing to happen. He does turn up again but proves once again if you cannot support someone at one's worst you do not deserve their best.
Magnus is the love that maybe would happen in another lifetime. If life had gone a different way. If life had not hit Magnus with his mum. It was a little too late when he came back. They do did have so much fun together though.
Last but not least Niall I would say the slight underdog the one who kept me guessing how he felt. He may be professional but still cares and loves deeply proving that so very much in the last part.
Special mention to Jess and Clare who supported the leading cast so well. I would hope Jess joined the island.
Perfect fast read with relatable characters. The less said about Alex the better. He does not join my list of book boyfriends named Alex.
5 stars
Merry has three men interested in the same way but very different too.
Alex the first love the childhood sweetheart dumps her after fifteen nearly sixteen years. The woman at the table was right it may not have felt like it at the time but it was the best thing to happen. He does turn up again but proves once again if you cannot support someone at one's worst you do not deserve their best.
Magnus is the love that maybe would happen in another lifetime. If life had gone a different way. If life had not hit Magnus with his mum. It was a little too late when he came back. They do did have so much fun together though.
Last but not least Niall I would say the slight underdog the one who kept me guessing how he felt. He may be professional but still cares and loves deeply proving that so very much in the last part.
Special mention to Jess and Clare who supported the leading cast so well. I would hope Jess joined the island.
Perfect fast read with relatable characters. The less said about Alex the better. He does not join my list of book boyfriends named Alex.
5 stars
February 7, 2021
My word this book was amazingly well written I couldn’t put it down the characters were brilliant and the setting makes you feel you are there and want to go yourself. Full of starting over again and finding the right person to have romance and refunding yourself so you can write again. It’s a warm charming read and will not want the book to end.
Marina has it all she has a boyfriend and due to get married and a brilliant author but she’s struggling to write her next book and can’t find the words then when her boyfriend finishes with her how will it effect her. She sees an advert for a writer to move to the Orkney islands to encourage others to read and she gets the job so moves up. She starts her new adventure and gets to know knew friends and knew talents like running and she finds her writing again and finds herself happy. Will she find the romance she’s after or will she stay single and will she move back to London or stay where she is.
Marina has it all she has a boyfriend and due to get married and a brilliant author but she’s struggling to write her next book and can’t find the words then when her boyfriend finishes with her how will it effect her. She sees an advert for a writer to move to the Orkney islands to encourage others to read and she gets the job so moves up. She starts her new adventure and gets to know knew friends and knew talents like running and she finds her writing again and finds herself happy. Will she find the romance she’s after or will she stay single and will she move back to London or stay where she is.
February 25, 2021
This was originally published as 4 separate stories, which have been published as one book. The editing is seamless, so you can’t tell it was separate stories but it feels quite long.
Very light and fluffy, pleasant, though I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as other reviewers appear to have done.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.
Very light and fluffy, pleasant, though I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as other reviewers appear to have done.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.
February 2, 2021
You know that feeling on a perfect summer’s day when you’re standing with your face turned up towards the sun and you can feel the sunshine seeping into your skin? Where the warmth echoes through your bones to restore your soul?! *nods* Yup, that feeling. Well, that was what Merry’s story was for me, or as she would simply put it, “... a warm hug on a gloomy day.”
To say that writer Merina Wilde’s life has taken a 180 would be a bit of an understatement *snorts*. Could her planned ‘escape’ to the Orkney Isles actually be the answer to all that ails her – writers’ block and all?! This Scottish lass may be a tad biased on that score *smirks*.
*sighs*
Merry’s story was just the burst of happiness I so sorely needed. This was a story with a little bit of everything but very much full of heart where I get to use one of my favourite phrases – I ran the full gamut of emotions reading this book. You can’t beat the feeling as a reader where you connect with a character and their every emotion becomes your own. The ups, the down and all the bits in between. So, it’ll come as no surprise when I tell you I laughed, cried, and smiled my way through this story.
Now, don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t all plain sailing by any means. There was the obligatory rant or two which included a short intermission where tea was very much needed so I could expel my frustrations at certain characters, lol. It is me after all!
CHtBB was an effortless read which I was loathe to put down. Put it this way, I’m not ready to say goodbye. Attachment issues?! Moi?!
Holly Hepburn is a new-to-me author, but I think it’s safe to say she’s gained a new fan.
To say that writer Merina Wilde’s life has taken a 180 would be a bit of an understatement *snorts*. Could her planned ‘escape’ to the Orkney Isles actually be the answer to all that ails her – writers’ block and all?! This Scottish lass may be a tad biased on that score *smirks*.
*sighs*
Merry’s story was just the burst of happiness I so sorely needed. This was a story with a little bit of everything but very much full of heart where I get to use one of my favourite phrases – I ran the full gamut of emotions reading this book. You can’t beat the feeling as a reader where you connect with a character and their every emotion becomes your own. The ups, the down and all the bits in between. So, it’ll come as no surprise when I tell you I laughed, cried, and smiled my way through this story.
Now, don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t all plain sailing by any means. There was the obligatory rant or two which included a short intermission where tea was very much needed so I could expel my frustrations at certain characters, lol. It is me after all!
CHtBB was an effortless read which I was loathe to put down. Put it this way, I’m not ready to say goodbye. Attachment issues?! Moi?!
Holly Hepburn is a new-to-me author, but I think it’s safe to say she’s gained a new fan.
April 19, 2022
Eine wundervolle und romantische Lektüre mit Charakteren, die einem beim Lesen ans Herz wachsen und genau die richtige Lektüre für Buchliebhaberinnen die Lust auf Schottland und die Orkneyinseln haben und auf Liebesromane mit gefühlsturbulenzen stehen. Klare leseempfehlung!
May 16, 2022
Ich hatte mich sehr auf die Geschichte gefreut und eine schöne Liebesgeschichte auf der schottischen kleinen Insel erwartet.
Das Buch an sich ist wirklich toll geschrieben, mit sehr viel Liebe zum Detail. Insbesondere was die Landschaftsbeschreibungen und die Sehenswürdigkeiten angeht. Ich habe mich am Anfang mit der Erzählperspektive etwas schwer getan, da ich ein großer Fan der Ich-Perspektive bin. Ich finde so können Gedanken und Gefühle immer etwas besser vermittelt werden.
Doch auch aus dieser Perspektive ist es der Autorin gelungen, Merrys Gefühle in Bezug auf ihre aktuelle Schreibblockade gut darzustellen. Ihre Gedankengänge, sobald sie von der Landschaft verzaubert wurde und ihre Fantasie zum Schreiben wieder angeregt wurde, sind sehr schön beschrieben worden und waren gut nachvollziehbar.
Leider war es für mich keine schöne Liebesgeschichte, in die man eintauchen konnte. Mir hat es da etwas an Tiefgang gefehlt. Die zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen wurden mir persönlich zu oberflächlich dargestellt und auch die Gefühle was die Charaktere anging, wurden nicht so ganz deutlich.
Insgesamt würde ich 3,5 Sterne geben. Es ist eine schöne Geschichte über die Oarkneys, die die Schönheit der Inseln hervorhebt. In der Handlung plätschert sie eher so dahin und was die Love-Story anging, ist bei mir leider nicht der Funke übergesprungen.
Das Buch an sich ist wirklich toll geschrieben, mit sehr viel Liebe zum Detail. Insbesondere was die Landschaftsbeschreibungen und die Sehenswürdigkeiten angeht. Ich habe mich am Anfang mit der Erzählperspektive etwas schwer getan, da ich ein großer Fan der Ich-Perspektive bin. Ich finde so können Gedanken und Gefühle immer etwas besser vermittelt werden.
Doch auch aus dieser Perspektive ist es der Autorin gelungen, Merrys Gefühle in Bezug auf ihre aktuelle Schreibblockade gut darzustellen. Ihre Gedankengänge, sobald sie von der Landschaft verzaubert wurde und ihre Fantasie zum Schreiben wieder angeregt wurde, sind sehr schön beschrieben worden und waren gut nachvollziehbar.
Leider war es für mich keine schöne Liebesgeschichte, in die man eintauchen konnte. Mir hat es da etwas an Tiefgang gefehlt. Die zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen wurden mir persönlich zu oberflächlich dargestellt und auch die Gefühle was die Charaktere anging, wurden nicht so ganz deutlich.
Insgesamt würde ich 3,5 Sterne geben. Es ist eine schöne Geschichte über die Oarkneys, die die Schönheit der Inseln hervorhebt. In der Handlung plätschert sie eher so dahin und was die Love-Story anging, ist bei mir leider nicht der Funke übergesprungen.
February 3, 2022
Apparently I like to torture myself.
As once in a while I love to read a romantic love story with great chemistry between characters, it happens that sometimes I bump into a novel in which there is no love story or no chemistry.
The only thing I liked about the book was the Orkney Island guide style writing.
I would have been sold to consider this a travel guide, rather than a love story between an obnoxious writer (whom, according to her, can't write, can't run, can't drink or even go up the stairs if they're too many) and a Clark Kent librarian lookalike who showed NO interest in her rather than playing the island guide, in 400 pages, in order to suddenly declare his love on the last page, while another male character with a better potential (whome she actually kissed and spend time with on dates - you know, like normal people in their 30s interested in a relationship do) was written off in a whim for taking some decisions that showed his character (and with which she half heartedly agreed).
And back to HER, not only she acts like a 6th grader around 30 years old men (who act the same, don't worry), but she also handles her relationship with her best friend with the diplomacy of a toddler in the middle of a tantrum.
Just don't.
As once in a while I love to read a romantic love story with great chemistry between characters, it happens that sometimes I bump into a novel in which there is no love story or no chemistry.
The only thing I liked about the book was the Orkney Island guide style writing.
I would have been sold to consider this a travel guide, rather than a love story between an obnoxious writer (whom, according to her, can't write, can't run, can't drink or even go up the stairs if they're too many) and a Clark Kent librarian lookalike who showed NO interest in her rather than playing the island guide, in 400 pages, in order to suddenly declare his love on the last page, while another male character with a better potential (whome she actually kissed and spend time with on dates - you know, like normal people in their 30s interested in a relationship do) was written off in a whim for taking some decisions that showed his character (and with which she half heartedly agreed).
And back to HER, not only she acts like a 6th grader around 30 years old men (who act the same, don't worry), but she also handles her relationship with her best friend with the diplomacy of a toddler in the middle of a tantrum.
Just don't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2021
After Merry has a few problems, she takes a job as a resident author in the Orkney Islands. The locals are very keen to meet her and turn up to the bookish events. There is a real sense of community and you also saw the beauty of the islands, and make you keen to visit. She finds the locals fascinating and chatting to them helps her writing block.
It was so well written that you wanted to live there and go to the book events and just be a part of the community. The perfect book to settle down and lose yourself for a few hours, with your cuppa and a pack of biscuits and your bucket list ready to update, with a new 'must visit'.
It was so well written that you wanted to live there and go to the book events and just be a part of the community. The perfect book to settle down and lose yourself for a few hours, with your cuppa and a pack of biscuits and your bucket list ready to update, with a new 'must visit'.
August 26, 2023
This book was okay, I really loved it at the start and although I still like it I started to get a bit bored after like halfway. I really wish we got to see more of Merry and Niall. The writing I felt was good too but the story was missing something for me. However, I would still recommend, especially if you’re just looking for a fun, small town vibe, where everyone knows everyone and the main character being a writer trying to find love again.
Also, I low key loved Gordon haha.
Also, I low key loved Gordon haha.
January 23, 2021
This is one of those stories which I've kept dipping back into after I finished the book- always a good sign! The setting is fantastic and there are plenty of lovely descriptions of various sites in the Orkneys which really make the place and its history come alive. Merry turned out to be a thoroughly likeable central character who stands on her own feet and sorts out her problems as much as she possible can. There are plenty of colourful characters who she gets to meet and her friend Jess is an entertaining friend. She could certainly carry a story of her own.
Writing and books are intrinsic parts of the story and I enjoyed following Merry's quest to kickstart her own writing. I'd have loved to go to one of her writing sessions! Of course, the two male leads are a great contrast. I always knew which one I hoped she would pick, but it must have been a close-run decision! For a wonderful escapist read, full of warmth and a touch of wit, you need to look no further!
In short: A warm and endearing story full of the romance of the Orkneys.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Writing and books are intrinsic parts of the story and I enjoyed following Merry's quest to kickstart her own writing. I'd have loved to go to one of her writing sessions! Of course, the two male leads are a great contrast. I always knew which one I hoped she would pick, but it must have been a close-run decision! For a wonderful escapist read, full of warmth and a touch of wit, you need to look no further!
In short: A warm and endearing story full of the romance of the Orkneys.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
January 29, 2021
Well I wasn’t expecting a public dumping on page one of the prologue and from the shock Merry had on her face she wasn’t either. Alex her boyfriend of fifteen years and who she had planned her entire future with can’t pretend to love her anymore. So over a restaurant dinner he tells best selling author Merina Wilde that basically her writer’s block has affected their relationship and he’s moving out.
So three months later an advert from The Orkney Literary Society for a six month writer in residence sees Merry on as she puts it a “death-defying flight” to get her writing mojo back.
The islanders soon make Merry feel at home and make up a wonderful cast, alongside best friend Jess and a few animals. Full of strong community spirit I found myself completely immersed in island life alongside her.
I loved Merry’s character and as a book lover having a writer and Clark Kent lookalike librarian called Niall was a dream. To then throw Magnus the sexy Viking in and have two very worthy male leads I was on tenterhooks wondering which she would pick. I had my fingers crossed it would be the one I wanted.
This is the first book that I have read of this author and I’m kicking myself that I’ve not read her before. Not only did I fall in love with her easy writing style and characters, her descriptive sense of place made me fall head over heels with the secluded cottage with its roaring fire and the beautiful Brightwater Bay.
A gentle heartwarming romance with a lot of humorous moments I didn’t want this book to end. So I’m now off to purchase the author’s entire back catalogue. That should tell you how much I adored this beautiful book.
So three months later an advert from The Orkney Literary Society for a six month writer in residence sees Merry on as she puts it a “death-defying flight” to get her writing mojo back.
The islanders soon make Merry feel at home and make up a wonderful cast, alongside best friend Jess and a few animals. Full of strong community spirit I found myself completely immersed in island life alongside her.
I loved Merry’s character and as a book lover having a writer and Clark Kent lookalike librarian called Niall was a dream. To then throw Magnus the sexy Viking in and have two very worthy male leads I was on tenterhooks wondering which she would pick. I had my fingers crossed it would be the one I wanted.
This is the first book that I have read of this author and I’m kicking myself that I’ve not read her before. Not only did I fall in love with her easy writing style and characters, her descriptive sense of place made me fall head over heels with the secluded cottage with its roaring fire and the beautiful Brightwater Bay.
A gentle heartwarming romance with a lot of humorous moments I didn’t want this book to end. So I’m now off to purchase the author’s entire back catalogue. That should tell you how much I adored this beautiful book.
September 27, 2022
The best part about this was the way in which the islands of Orkney were really brought to life; the people, places and especially the history. The rest of it kind of annoyed me? My main issue was the ‘real’ love interest, a hot librarian, with no real role but to be a handsome tour guide until the last twenty pages, then despite no romance they declare their love for each other on the last page… like are you sure? Niall does actually say “I know this is happening too fast… I love you.” Yes thank you for some self awareness but you have literally just had your first kiss! The other male lead, who Merry actually dated, kissed and spent time with was given a convenient reason to exit the plot, by which point Merry was eyeing up the next available suitor, having jealous fits and destroying her longest friendship over. Merry had been a pleasant MC up until this point, her journey to regaining her confidence and sense of self post breakup was well written until dramatic changes of heart and tantrums ruined her character.
January 29, 2021
Was OK bit predictable sadly
January 24, 2021
There's just something about a book based on someone who loves books that just grabs my interest from the start. And this was just the cutest, most heartwarming tale, which brought a tear to my eye at the end.
Merry is an extremely likeable character, an Author, and this book follows her as she moves to a whole new country, and navigates new relationships. I already loved Scotland, but after reading this, I want to move there, and to Brightwater Bay, so bad!
I have to say it though, she chose the wrong man at the end and I am not happy about it!
This was another new Author to me but another whose other books I have added to my wishlist as I loved this so much. The setting was picturesque and there was a brilliant array of characters. Also where this book was initially four books, I love how you're reminded throughout of who each character is; I wish this happened more often in books!
Merry is an extremely likeable character, an Author, and this book follows her as she moves to a whole new country, and navigates new relationships. I already loved Scotland, but after reading this, I want to move there, and to Brightwater Bay, so bad!
I have to say it though, she chose the wrong man at the end and I am not happy about it!
This was another new Author to me but another whose other books I have added to my wishlist as I loved this so much. The setting was picturesque and there was a brilliant array of characters. Also where this book was initially four books, I love how you're reminded throughout of who each character is; I wish this happened more often in books!
January 10, 2021
It was the sunny, tranquil cover that first grabbed my attention. This was quickly followed by the intriguing blurb which hinted at a warm tale of an author’s rollercoaster book writing journey. How could I resist?
A harsh prologue set the scene well for Merry’s escape to Orkney, I could almost feel her shock jumping off the page at me and this meant that I quickly took her character to heart.
I found myself willing Merry to rediscover her writing mojo and hoping every new encounter on Orkney would be the one that sparked her creativeness. The island seemed kind of magical and the residents were more than welcoming so I guess it was more a matter of when than if it would happen. Being an avid reader, following the thought processes of an author as they write a novel is always interesting so I particularly enjoyed this aspect of Merry’s story.
Magnús was an interesting addition to the storyline and threw a spanner in the works of my initial romantic prediction. In fact, Merry’s love life was surprisingly unpredictable and managed to keep me on my toes throughout!
Favourite Moments:
* A rooftop visitor
* Running coercion
* A nervous reading
* Drunken phone calls
* An unwanted romantic hero
This was a warm and welcoming read which beautifully demonstrated that inspiration can sometimes come from the most unexpected of places!
A harsh prologue set the scene well for Merry’s escape to Orkney, I could almost feel her shock jumping off the page at me and this meant that I quickly took her character to heart.
I found myself willing Merry to rediscover her writing mojo and hoping every new encounter on Orkney would be the one that sparked her creativeness. The island seemed kind of magical and the residents were more than welcoming so I guess it was more a matter of when than if it would happen. Being an avid reader, following the thought processes of an author as they write a novel is always interesting so I particularly enjoyed this aspect of Merry’s story.
Magnús was an interesting addition to the storyline and threw a spanner in the works of my initial romantic prediction. In fact, Merry’s love life was surprisingly unpredictable and managed to keep me on my toes throughout!
Favourite Moments:
* A rooftop visitor
* Running coercion
* A nervous reading
* Drunken phone calls
* An unwanted romantic hero
This was a warm and welcoming read which beautifully demonstrated that inspiration can sometimes come from the most unexpected of places!
January 29, 2024
Tandem read Coming Home to Brightwater Bay on paperback and audiobook and THIS! THIS is why author Holly Hepburn is one of my favorites!
—Her characters are human, flawed and beautiful
—the writing is so good you will be transported to where the book takes place in
—the storyline will make you want more more more!!
I love this! I love Merry and Thor's greatest competition, but I love Merry and Superman more!! 🥹🤭 Read this and you'll get the joke hehe. Will post my full review once I finish tabbing on my paperback 🫶🏻
—Her characters are human, flawed and beautiful
—the writing is so good you will be transported to where the book takes place in
—the storyline will make you want more more more!!
I love this! I love Merry and Thor's greatest competition, but I love Merry and Superman more!! 🥹🤭 Read this and you'll get the joke hehe. Will post my full review once I finish tabbing on my paperback 🫶🏻
May 13, 2021
This was my firtst book by Holly Hepburn and I absolutely loved it. I found myself swept away immediately and couldn't help falling in love with the people and island. Can't wsit to read another of her books!
May 20, 2025
Oh my, I couldn't put this book down. I loved Merina (Merry). How she got writers block after her longterm boyfriend called it off. How her journey took her to The Orkneys. I loved it, and it would be great to have a follow up to this book. Sad when it finished.
January 22, 2021
"Someone enjoys my book so much that they forget they're even reading, it means I've done my job properly" is a quote from this book and I think it sums up how I felt about Holly's writing.
It's the first book of Holly's I've read but it wont be the last. I loved it. I felt like I was there on the island. It is definitely a place I would love to visit one day.
The story itself is beautiful. It is a an amazing love story with a couple of twists along the way. There were a few scenes in the book where I hoped and prayed that Merry would choose the other guy and it kept me in suspense the whole way through.
Beautifully idyllic and I cant wait to read more of Holly's work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's the first book of Holly's I've read but it wont be the last. I loved it. I felt like I was there on the island. It is definitely a place I would love to visit one day.
The story itself is beautiful. It is a an amazing love story with a couple of twists along the way. There were a few scenes in the book where I hoped and prayed that Merry would choose the other guy and it kept me in suspense the whole way through.
Beautifully idyllic and I cant wait to read more of Holly's work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 9, 2023
Probably a book that I wouldn't ever have read or bought, if I hadn't gotten it to myself through a mystery box.
I loved the summary at the back of the book and perfectly aligned with my need for a feel-good romance novel.
Add to that, the element of writers and books involved in the story made it an even more tempting read being a writer myself.
I would have to say the first chapter went by like a breeze. The second chapter had its share of boredom and fillers but picked up towards the end.
The third and fourth chapters were both very well written but some of the unnecessary picturization of Orkney's places were too much for me.
The book was originally published in four parts which makes more sense to me as to why so much filler was added in each chapters.
Having said that this was a pageturner and I loved Merina Wilde. Her character hit the mark perfectly in my mind. I completely understood the conundrum in Merry's head. I liked her arc and the side characters as well.
Magnus was a flop for me. I could do without him in the story but it had its reasoning to be included to add to the arc of Merry's character.
As I said, I didn't expect to like this but I did. And now, I have to check the other books by Holly Hepburn because she has an effortless and simple style that suits my reading.
I loved the summary at the back of the book and perfectly aligned with my need for a feel-good romance novel.
Add to that, the element of writers and books involved in the story made it an even more tempting read being a writer myself.
I would have to say the first chapter went by like a breeze. The second chapter had its share of boredom and fillers but picked up towards the end.
The third and fourth chapters were both very well written but some of the unnecessary picturization of Orkney's places were too much for me.
The book was originally published in four parts which makes more sense to me as to why so much filler was added in each chapters.
Having said that this was a pageturner and I loved Merina Wilde. Her character hit the mark perfectly in my mind. I completely understood the conundrum in Merry's head. I liked her arc and the side characters as well.
Magnus was a flop for me. I could do without him in the story but it had its reasoning to be included to add to the arc of Merry's character.
As I said, I didn't expect to like this but I did. And now, I have to check the other books by Holly Hepburn because she has an effortless and simple style that suits my reading.
January 24, 2021
Merry is a bestselling author and everything runs smoothly in her life. Until it isn’t. She’s been experiencing writers’ block for some time and now her boyfriend of 15 years has just dumped her. In a restaurant. So that she doesn’t make a scene. Not really knowing what to do, Merry jumps on a place and flies to Orkney, to spend there the next 6 months as a so – called Writer in Residence. She’s hoping to get her inspiration back; to be able to write again. What she’s not expecting is to become a kind od Orkney celebrity, nor that – perhaps – she’s going to find much more there?
Merry was a lovely character and I immediately warmed to her. It was so interesting and gripping to see how she struggles with her writer’s block – something absolutely new and something I can’t relate to but something that I’ve heard about and it was great to get such an insider peep, to see the world through her eyes – as the places and encounters on Orkney started to spark her creativity. I liked that she was so open, friendly and down – to – earth.
Merry’s love life was as colourful as a rainbow and I think even Merry herself hasn’t expected it to turn out like this. However, mmmm, I think I would have chosen differently I had a feeling there is much better connection with the other candidate, that they simply work together better.
The lovely story is shadowed – yes, I use this word consciously – by the descriptions of the setting. I don’t mean it in a wrong way, because oh my word, Orkney is a wonderful place and the author has done such a brilliant, lovely job with vividly describing it, so seamlessly transporting me to this place, beginning with the tricky journey on a plane and ending with the lighthouse – I truly appreciated it. But I also think that the plot has lost because of it. The story of Merry was great and I enjoyed it so much but I wished for more focus on it.
The problem with books that are published as four – parts series before is that they feel repetitive and slow. I want my plot to go on, to continue, events happening and the rerunning of scenes, introducing to the characters again, simply slows it down. It must be done like this, of course, series need this but it irritated me too much. I am not criticizing the author ort he book here, of course not, I am only honestly writing about my feelings while reading the story, and it hugely affected my reception.
„Coming Home to Brightwater Bay“ is a perfect escapism, a lovely and gentle story about second chances with a right amount of romance, fun, misfortune, friendship and half – marathons. Gordon the goat is absolutely hilarious!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Merry was a lovely character and I immediately warmed to her. It was so interesting and gripping to see how she struggles with her writer’s block – something absolutely new and something I can’t relate to but something that I’ve heard about and it was great to get such an insider peep, to see the world through her eyes – as the places and encounters on Orkney started to spark her creativity. I liked that she was so open, friendly and down – to – earth.
Merry’s love life was as colourful as a rainbow and I think even Merry herself hasn’t expected it to turn out like this. However, mmmm, I think I would have chosen differently I had a feeling there is much better connection with the other candidate, that they simply work together better.
The lovely story is shadowed – yes, I use this word consciously – by the descriptions of the setting. I don’t mean it in a wrong way, because oh my word, Orkney is a wonderful place and the author has done such a brilliant, lovely job with vividly describing it, so seamlessly transporting me to this place, beginning with the tricky journey on a plane and ending with the lighthouse – I truly appreciated it. But I also think that the plot has lost because of it. The story of Merry was great and I enjoyed it so much but I wished for more focus on it.
The problem with books that are published as four – parts series before is that they feel repetitive and slow. I want my plot to go on, to continue, events happening and the rerunning of scenes, introducing to the characters again, simply slows it down. It must be done like this, of course, series need this but it irritated me too much. I am not criticizing the author ort he book here, of course not, I am only honestly writing about my feelings while reading the story, and it hugely affected my reception.
„Coming Home to Brightwater Bay“ is a perfect escapism, a lovely and gentle story about second chances with a right amount of romance, fun, misfortune, friendship and half – marathons. Gordon the goat is absolutely hilarious!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
May 5, 2022
Rezension
Buchname: Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand
Autor: Holly Hepburn
Seiten: 512 (Print)
Fromat: als Print und Ebook erhältlich
Verlag: Penguin Verlag; Deutsche Erstausgabe Edition (11. April 2022)
Sterne: 4
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in hellen bzw blaufarbenen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Man kann ein Cottage und einen Weg und einen kleinen See erkennen. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Ein kleines Cottage in Schottland, ein großer Traum und eine neue Chance auf die Liebe
Schriftstellerin Merry liebt ihr Leben im glitzernden London: Ihre romantischen Liebesgeschichten stehen bei den Leserinnen hoch im Kurs, eine glamouröse Buchparty folgt auf die nächste. Doch als ihr Verlobter sich aus heiterem Himmel von ihr trennt und obendrein eine gemeine Schreibblockade ihren neuen Roman gefährdet, muss ein Neuanfang her. Merry zieht in ein entzückendes kleines Cottage auf den wunderschönen Orkney-Inseln vor der Küste Schottlands, um bei langen Strandspaziergängen wieder zu sich selbst zu finden. Doch die naseweisen Inselbewohner denken gar nicht daran, den Neuzugang in Ruhe zu lassen. Und dann gibt es da noch Niall, den charmanten Leiter der örtlichen Bücherei, und den unverschämt attraktiven Bootsbauer Magnus, dessen Vorfahren von den Wikingern abstammen ...
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Merry
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Niall
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Mir hat „Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand“ von Holly Hepburn recht gut gefallen. Das Buch hatte alles nach meinen Geschmack. Es war eine locker leichte Liebesgeschichte mit tollen Charakteren, einem schönen Setting in London und für mich persönlich war es genau die richtige Menge an Emotionen. Ich fande die Geschichte war stimmig und auch gut geschrieben. Ich habe mich beim Lesen sehr wohl gefühlt. Für mich war das Buch ein Wohlfühlbuch. Die beiden Hauptprotagonisten Merry und Niall möchte ich von Anfang an sehr gerne. Das Buch war zwar sehr vorhersehbar aber nichtsdestotrotz war „Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand“ doch ein gelungenes Buch. Mir hat es gut gefallen. Deshalb bekommt das Buch von mir auch verdiente 4 Sterne und eine klare Leseempfehlung.
Fazit:
Toller Liebesroman, der allerdings auch vorhersehbar ist. Schöner und lockerer Schreibstil und ein Feel-Good-Buch.
Buchname: Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand
Autor: Holly Hepburn
Seiten: 512 (Print)
Fromat: als Print und Ebook erhältlich
Verlag: Penguin Verlag; Deutsche Erstausgabe Edition (11. April 2022)
Sterne: 4
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in hellen bzw blaufarbenen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Man kann ein Cottage und einen Weg und einen kleinen See erkennen. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Ein kleines Cottage in Schottland, ein großer Traum und eine neue Chance auf die Liebe
Schriftstellerin Merry liebt ihr Leben im glitzernden London: Ihre romantischen Liebesgeschichten stehen bei den Leserinnen hoch im Kurs, eine glamouröse Buchparty folgt auf die nächste. Doch als ihr Verlobter sich aus heiterem Himmel von ihr trennt und obendrein eine gemeine Schreibblockade ihren neuen Roman gefährdet, muss ein Neuanfang her. Merry zieht in ein entzückendes kleines Cottage auf den wunderschönen Orkney-Inseln vor der Küste Schottlands, um bei langen Strandspaziergängen wieder zu sich selbst zu finden. Doch die naseweisen Inselbewohner denken gar nicht daran, den Neuzugang in Ruhe zu lassen. Und dann gibt es da noch Niall, den charmanten Leiter der örtlichen Bücherei, und den unverschämt attraktiven Bootsbauer Magnus, dessen Vorfahren von den Wikingern abstammen ...
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Merry
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Niall
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Mir hat „Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand“ von Holly Hepburn recht gut gefallen. Das Buch hatte alles nach meinen Geschmack. Es war eine locker leichte Liebesgeschichte mit tollen Charakteren, einem schönen Setting in London und für mich persönlich war es genau die richtige Menge an Emotionen. Ich fande die Geschichte war stimmig und auch gut geschrieben. Ich habe mich beim Lesen sehr wohl gefühlt. Für mich war das Buch ein Wohlfühlbuch. Die beiden Hauptprotagonisten Merry und Niall möchte ich von Anfang an sehr gerne. Das Buch war zwar sehr vorhersehbar aber nichtsdestotrotz war „Süße Träume im Cottage am Strand“ doch ein gelungenes Buch. Mir hat es gut gefallen. Deshalb bekommt das Buch von mir auch verdiente 4 Sterne und eine klare Leseempfehlung.
Fazit:
Toller Liebesroman, der allerdings auch vorhersehbar ist. Schöner und lockerer Schreibstil und ein Feel-Good-Buch.
January 17, 2021
Well, this is the first book I have read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. I loved my time on Orkney with Merry and the gang.
Merry is a writer, she is experiencing the worst writers block of her career and her boyfriend of 15 years has just dumped her. So, what else could she do than to jump on a plane and go spend 6 months as a Writer in Residence in Orkney.
This is the second book I have read recently set in Orkney and I really enjoyed going back. This was an amusing book with a brilliant sense of community as Merry spends her time split between Niall the Library manager and Magnus the Viking boat builder. I loved all the characters in this book - well except for Alex the ex boyfriend and I enjoyed the who will she end up with romance.
Do I think she ended up with the right guy, hmm possibly not, I felt there was a bigger connection with the other one, but I won't hold that against anyone, I will just quietly sulk in the corner haha.
I would definitely recommend this one for a bit of armchair travelling and just an all round comfort read.
Merry is a writer, she is experiencing the worst writers block of her career and her boyfriend of 15 years has just dumped her. So, what else could she do than to jump on a plane and go spend 6 months as a Writer in Residence in Orkney.
This is the second book I have read recently set in Orkney and I really enjoyed going back. This was an amusing book with a brilliant sense of community as Merry spends her time split between Niall the Library manager and Magnus the Viking boat builder. I loved all the characters in this book - well except for Alex the ex boyfriend and I enjoyed the who will she end up with romance.
Do I think she ended up with the right guy, hmm possibly not, I felt there was a bigger connection with the other one, but I won't hold that against anyone, I will just quietly sulk in the corner haha.
I would definitely recommend this one for a bit of armchair travelling and just an all round comfort read.
October 11, 2022
Das Cover ist sehr ansprechend. Es verleiht einem eine Art Grundstimmung die einen durch die Geschichte zieht. Der Schreibstil ist locker und flüssig. Es wurde alles malerisch beschrieben, sodass man die einzelnen Orte vor Augen hatte. Die Kapitellängen sind insgesamt okay. Die Geschichte ist in vier Abschnitten unterteilt aber meiner Meinung nach hätte es das nicht gebraucht. Die Charaktere sind stimmig. Merry ist einem von Anfang an sympathisch und Niall. Ach Niall ist einfach nur bezaubernd. Auch die anderen Figuren sind interessant mit ihren Eigenarten. Sie fügen sich alle gut zusammen. Eine schöne Geschichte zum abschalten.
January 16, 2021
I am pretty sure this is the first book I've read by this author, but certainly won't be the last - I have already downloaded another 3 to my kindle!!
An absolutely charming story of Merry, a writer struggling with writers block who flees to Orkney on a Writer in Residence secondment to try and find herself again.
An inspiring story with wonderful characters, and the descriptions of the places on Orkney have made me want to visit, I could picture it all.
Fabulous book, looking forward to reading more of her work.
An absolutely charming story of Merry, a writer struggling with writers block who flees to Orkney on a Writer in Residence secondment to try and find herself again.
An inspiring story with wonderful characters, and the descriptions of the places on Orkney have made me want to visit, I could picture it all.
Fabulous book, looking forward to reading more of her work.
March 2, 2021
What a wonderful read, I am not unbiased though as I don’t think I’ve met a Holly Hepburn book I haven’t enjoyed . This book is totally enthralling , you will not want to put this down. As always Holly’s wonderful descriptions make you feel like you are there and now I really want to go to Orkney.
The characters are really well written, overall It’s simply a romantic and happy book that will take you away for a few hours to a place of ease and smiles.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
The characters are really well written, overall It’s simply a romantic and happy book that will take you away for a few hours to a place of ease and smiles.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
February 15, 2021
I absolutely adored books by Holly Hepburn and when I heard Holly talk about her newest book last year (before the Lockdown), I knew I must get my mitts on Coming Home to Brightwater Bay.
The setting of the breathtakingly beautiful Orkney Islands combined with wonderful characters and an intriguing storyline made this book one of my favourite reads so far.
I highly recommend to grab a copy next time you book shop.
The setting of the breathtakingly beautiful Orkney Islands combined with wonderful characters and an intriguing storyline made this book one of my favourite reads so far.
I highly recommend to grab a copy next time you book shop.
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