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Clamshell Bay #1
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay
Where the sea laps the coast at Clamshell Bay in the Pacific Northwest, four women meet in a baking class. They’re as different as salt, flour, yeast and water – yet when they combine, the results are as strong and unbreakable as the best friendships.
Cleo Duvall is a middle-aged baker who runs the Clamshell Bay Bakery and Café in the pretty tourist town on the Washington State coast, and her cinnamon buns are Instagram-famous. The coffee shop is the heart of the village – neighbors gossip over coffee and pastries, and if you want to know anything about anyone, the café is the place to ask.
As a way to share her love for the art and craft of baking, Cleo teaches a weekend class. Her students this time include Brooke Mattson, a former supermodel who dreams of being a mom but is struggling to have a baby; Libby Brown, a proud homemaker whose happy family isn’t as perfect as it seems; and Megan Alexander, the local painter who may be free-spirited – or a commitment-phobe.
Cleo survived her no-good husband running out on her three years ago with a young neighbor. She lived down the humiliation and is satisfied with a life so predictable she knows exactly how many loaves of French bread to bake on Thursdays. Then a man who looks strangely familiar strolls into her café and upsets the balance of her carefully ordered world.
While the four women bond over bread dough, their lives begin to change, too. On the surface, Clamshell Bay is as calm as a sunny day in August, but anyone who’s lived by the ocean knows that one good storm can change everything. There are secrets buried in Clamshell Bay, and they are about to be exposed by a tide no one can stop.
Treat yourself to a cinnamon bun and lose yourself in the utterly charming world of Clamshell Bay – you won’t want to leave. Fans of Firefly Lane, Pamela Kelley and Nancy Thayer will adore the Clamshell Bay series.
Cleo Duvall is a middle-aged baker who runs the Clamshell Bay Bakery and Café in the pretty tourist town on the Washington State coast, and her cinnamon buns are Instagram-famous. The coffee shop is the heart of the village – neighbors gossip over coffee and pastries, and if you want to know anything about anyone, the café is the place to ask.
As a way to share her love for the art and craft of baking, Cleo teaches a weekend class. Her students this time include Brooke Mattson, a former supermodel who dreams of being a mom but is struggling to have a baby; Libby Brown, a proud homemaker whose happy family isn’t as perfect as it seems; and Megan Alexander, the local painter who may be free-spirited – or a commitment-phobe.
Cleo survived her no-good husband running out on her three years ago with a young neighbor. She lived down the humiliation and is satisfied with a life so predictable she knows exactly how many loaves of French bread to bake on Thursdays. Then a man who looks strangely familiar strolls into her café and upsets the balance of her carefully ordered world.
While the four women bond over bread dough, their lives begin to change, too. On the surface, Clamshell Bay is as calm as a sunny day in August, but anyone who’s lived by the ocean knows that one good storm can change everything. There are secrets buried in Clamshell Bay, and they are about to be exposed by a tide no one can stop.
Treat yourself to a cinnamon bun and lose yourself in the utterly charming world of Clamshell Bay – you won’t want to leave. Fans of Firefly Lane, Pamela Kelley and Nancy Thayer will adore the Clamshell Bay series.
242 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2021
515 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 31, 2023
Despite our generation being more connected than ever, we seem to be lonelier and more anxious. Nobody knows that better than the protagonist, Cleo Duvall. She’s a 52-year-old woman who single-handedly runs a cottage on 5 acres, a busy bakery, and evening baking classes. Her days are full, and she’s surrounded by great friends and a wonderful community, but at the end of the day, she’s got nobody to share her day with. A couple of years ago, her husband ran off with one of the married women in town and nobody has seen them since.
When charismatic Ethan Crisp sails into Clamshell Bay on Vagabond, his yacht and home, Cleo’s life is turned upside down. Not only is there instant chemistry, but he proves himself a great friend and protector. The more I read about this man, the more I wanted him in my corner, too. I loved watching him quietly address Cleo’s trust issues and gently support her without pressing for commitment. When Cleo finds herself at rock bottom, the town pulls together and helps one of its own.
In addition to a wonderful, sweet romance, I loved the sense of community in Clamshell Bay. In a world where nobody seems to make eye contact anymore, it’s heartwarming to read of a town in the Pacific Northwest where everyone knows your name and watches out for each other. It was lovely to read about three women who learned to bake with Cleo while they were helping each other through love, loss and life’s challenges.
I love a book that drives me to Google something I don’t understand. I certainly wasn’t expecting to do that with this genre, so it was a pleasant surprise. I was shocked to learn that Washington State is a community property state!
I binge-read this one last night and can’t wait to start book two!
I was gifted this copy by Storm Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
When charismatic Ethan Crisp sails into Clamshell Bay on Vagabond, his yacht and home, Cleo’s life is turned upside down. Not only is there instant chemistry, but he proves himself a great friend and protector. The more I read about this man, the more I wanted him in my corner, too. I loved watching him quietly address Cleo’s trust issues and gently support her without pressing for commitment. When Cleo finds herself at rock bottom, the town pulls together and helps one of its own.
In addition to a wonderful, sweet romance, I loved the sense of community in Clamshell Bay. In a world where nobody seems to make eye contact anymore, it’s heartwarming to read of a town in the Pacific Northwest where everyone knows your name and watches out for each other. It was lovely to read about three women who learned to bake with Cleo while they were helping each other through love, loss and life’s challenges.
I love a book that drives me to Google something I don’t understand. I certainly wasn’t expecting to do that with this genre, so it was a pleasant surprise. I was shocked to learn that Washington State is a community property state!
I binge-read this one last night and can’t wait to start book two!
I was gifted this copy by Storm Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 29, 2023
This was a lovely read. Easy and relaxing. The descriptions of the baking goods made my mouth water especially the Cinnamon buns. Although I guessed the outcome of the story early on it didn't spoil my enjoyment of this book. A perfect summer read. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 6, 2023
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay by Sara Jane Bailey is a page-turning novel. There are strong female characters, a hunky former star actor, a small coastal town, and a bakery that is the hub of the town. When the past comes calling, the town circles around Cleo (the bakery owner) to show her that they have her back. Cleo has to accept that this is the time for her to accept their help when she has always been the supporter for everyone else.
I was provided a copy of the book, but all opinions are my own.
I was provided a copy of the book, but all opinions are my own.
August 9, 2023
The story revolves around 52 year old Cleo Duvall, owner of the Bakery & Cafe, in the small town of Clamshell Bay. Cleo was once married, but her husband ran off with the neighbours wife. When she hosts a baking class for three women, all very different from each other, the four of them form a strong friendship.
Of course, there is also some romance in the form of Ethan Crisp, a former TV heartthrob. Ethan is a drifter who lives on his sailboat named Vagabond. There's an instant spark between Cleo and Ethan. Her friends encourage her to have some fun, but unfortunately, some drama unfolds.
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay is the first story in a new series by Sara Jane Bailey. It is beautifully written, and the author described the scenery so beautiful. It's a heartwarming read about female friendship, love, and life. I loved the sense of community at Clamshell Bay and the support they offered Cleo in her hour of needs.
I can't wait to read more about Clamshell Bay!
Thank you to Sara Jane Bailey, @netgalley and @stormbooks_co for the ARC of this book.
Of course, there is also some romance in the form of Ethan Crisp, a former TV heartthrob. Ethan is a drifter who lives on his sailboat named Vagabond. There's an instant spark between Cleo and Ethan. Her friends encourage her to have some fun, but unfortunately, some drama unfolds.
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay is the first story in a new series by Sara Jane Bailey. It is beautifully written, and the author described the scenery so beautiful. It's a heartwarming read about female friendship, love, and life. I loved the sense of community at Clamshell Bay and the support they offered Cleo in her hour of needs.
I can't wait to read more about Clamshell Bay!
Thank you to Sara Jane Bailey, @netgalley and @stormbooks_co for the ARC of this book.
September 26, 2023
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this heart-warming story!
August 2, 2023
A feel-good romantic comedy for a fun light and cheerful read. Would recommend this series
Thank you to Sara Jane Bailey, NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the arc of this book.
Thank you to Sara Jane Bailey, NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the arc of this book.
August 18, 2023
It is a lovely book. I liked how Cleo is depicted as an admirable, strong female character. There’s something about her that makes her, along with her bakery, part of the heart of the community in Clamshell Bay. I liked how Cleo learns to lean on others despite her reluctance to ask for help when Ethan sweeps into her bakery and friendships bloom during a baking class. It is also depicted in the story how close knit a community can be when one of their own faces problems. The only thing that I didn’t like was the kind of open ending.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
August 1, 2023
What a great story! I adored The Bakery at Clamshell Bay. I found myself immediately drawn into the dual perspective of Cleo and Ethan. Two people in need of a fresh start, coming from bad relationships and difficult situations. Cleo and Ethan are very different in many ways but they share common characteristics of realness, honesty and kindness. Their attraction to each other is undeniable but carries deeper connections than just physical elements. They each like to make items with their hands. Ethan has carpenter skills and enjoys building and repairing. Cleo dreams up recipes and makes breads, cookies, cakes, cinnamon buns and so on. She gets pleasure from creating foods, he from constructing building items. Cleo finds Ethan dependable, caring and courteous. He never pushes himself on her but guides with a gentle hand. He respects Cleo for her strength, independence and focus.
Ethan Crisp was once a star of a popular television series. But that was twenty five years ago. When the show ended, he moved on. Never accepting any further acting roles offered. Instead, he took his sailboat and travelled wherever the winds would take him (including places where he might not be recognised). This time, issues with his boat lead him into Clamshell Bay. But what is meant to be a quick stop for parts and repairs, ends up lasting longer when he becomes friends with the baker and other townspeople. Although being a small place where nothing goes unnoticed, Ethan finds the community spirit quite endearing and hard to leave.
And then there is the pet event on the first day. Ethan has a soft spot for rescuing the disadvantaged. A kitten captures his heart at the local pet shop. A litter of strays are taken to the pet store. The owner must find homes for the kittens who have lost their mother. They all are adopted except one. A female with one ear. Ethan feels sorry for the little one and rescues her once discovering she will be sent to a shelter and likely terminated. But his intention is to find the kitten a new home. He tries to avoid naming her to prevent an attachment but for interesting reasons (you will read) he decides to call her Delilah. No matter how many times he tries to deny his love for this less-than-perfect creature, he cannot. And his attempts to find a new home for the kitten fail at every turn. He even offers her to Cleo but receives a firm no.
Cleo Duvall has a successful business. One that is the heartbeat of the town. She has gained the respect and care of her neighbours. She has created a solid life on her own terms, running the bakery and teaching cooking classes. She is not a keen traveller and never stays away for more than three weeks without returning to her favourite spot in the world. She is content, something her new friend, Ethan, has never been. For as an ex-actor with a lot of money, he drifts from town to town on his sailboat. He may enjoy the travelling but it is his restlessness or lack of fulfilment that keeps him moving. Until now. Meeting Cleo brings some fresh perspective and raises new emotions in him.
Ethan’s desire to protect and aid the less fortunate makes him a desirable partner for Cleo. But she has been tricked by her past ex-husband and her mistakes return to haunt her when the culprit reappears after disappearing two years earlier. Ethan tries to help uncover the man’s past to give her the ammunition she needs to cut all ties. What he (through another friend) discovers is shocking and may be the very thing to save Cleo’s home and business.
This is a heart-warming story about finding your place in the world. It is also about trying to hold on to what you love when something or someone comes along to threaten that security. For Chloe, Clamshell Bay is a place of roots and community connection. Although she has been the one to always help others and give advice, now she must learn to receive the same. When she does, she begins to feel peace in the midst of chaos. Aided by Ethan, his boat and even a kitten, she learns to breathe again. ‘A kiss full of promise and acceptance’ is just what she needs and receives.
I loved everything about this story! Justice is served and this first instalment of the series delivers a lovely conclusion. I am delighted there will be more Clamshell Bay books! Sara Jane Bailey is a new author to me but I am dying to read more of her work now. The Bakery at Clamshell Bay is a winner. Great writing, wonderful characters, intriguing plot and a satisfying climax. What more could you want! 5 Delicious Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
Ethan Crisp was once a star of a popular television series. But that was twenty five years ago. When the show ended, he moved on. Never accepting any further acting roles offered. Instead, he took his sailboat and travelled wherever the winds would take him (including places where he might not be recognised). This time, issues with his boat lead him into Clamshell Bay. But what is meant to be a quick stop for parts and repairs, ends up lasting longer when he becomes friends with the baker and other townspeople. Although being a small place where nothing goes unnoticed, Ethan finds the community spirit quite endearing and hard to leave.
And then there is the pet event on the first day. Ethan has a soft spot for rescuing the disadvantaged. A kitten captures his heart at the local pet shop. A litter of strays are taken to the pet store. The owner must find homes for the kittens who have lost their mother. They all are adopted except one. A female with one ear. Ethan feels sorry for the little one and rescues her once discovering she will be sent to a shelter and likely terminated. But his intention is to find the kitten a new home. He tries to avoid naming her to prevent an attachment but for interesting reasons (you will read) he decides to call her Delilah. No matter how many times he tries to deny his love for this less-than-perfect creature, he cannot. And his attempts to find a new home for the kitten fail at every turn. He even offers her to Cleo but receives a firm no.
Cleo Duvall has a successful business. One that is the heartbeat of the town. She has gained the respect and care of her neighbours. She has created a solid life on her own terms, running the bakery and teaching cooking classes. She is not a keen traveller and never stays away for more than three weeks without returning to her favourite spot in the world. She is content, something her new friend, Ethan, has never been. For as an ex-actor with a lot of money, he drifts from town to town on his sailboat. He may enjoy the travelling but it is his restlessness or lack of fulfilment that keeps him moving. Until now. Meeting Cleo brings some fresh perspective and raises new emotions in him.
Ethan’s desire to protect and aid the less fortunate makes him a desirable partner for Cleo. But she has been tricked by her past ex-husband and her mistakes return to haunt her when the culprit reappears after disappearing two years earlier. Ethan tries to help uncover the man’s past to give her the ammunition she needs to cut all ties. What he (through another friend) discovers is shocking and may be the very thing to save Cleo’s home and business.
This is a heart-warming story about finding your place in the world. It is also about trying to hold on to what you love when something or someone comes along to threaten that security. For Chloe, Clamshell Bay is a place of roots and community connection. Although she has been the one to always help others and give advice, now she must learn to receive the same. When she does, she begins to feel peace in the midst of chaos. Aided by Ethan, his boat and even a kitten, she learns to breathe again. ‘A kiss full of promise and acceptance’ is just what she needs and receives.
I loved everything about this story! Justice is served and this first instalment of the series delivers a lovely conclusion. I am delighted there will be more Clamshell Bay books! Sara Jane Bailey is a new author to me but I am dying to read more of her work now. The Bakery at Clamshell Bay is a winner. Great writing, wonderful characters, intriguing plot and a satisfying climax. What more could you want! 5 Delicious Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
September 3, 2023
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay is the first novel in Sara Jane Bailey’s Clamshell Bay series. Middle aged Cleo Duvall has been a Clamshell Bay, Washington, resident her entire life, leaving only for college and short vacations. She has inherited a beachside cottage and a wonderful bakery from her mother, has people who support and care about her and a dirty, rotten scoundrel of an ex-ish set to wreak havoc. Life is good-ish.
Long days at her bakery and the baking classes Cleo teaches bring her joy and satisfaction, but her social life is solitary. And then a certain gentleman of her age-ish enters the bakery for a coffee and may just change her humdrum life. Cleo has the feeling of recognition but it takes her a bit to realize the man before her is Ethan Crisp. Ethan played a private investigator for three seasons on a very popular tv series, but then disappeared, until appearing here before her. This is only the first of many visits he will make.
In fact, when he asks Cleo out to dinner, the three ladies in her class, builder Megan Alexander, homemaker Libby Brown, and former model Brooke Mattson, make it their business to do a make over of sorts for Cleo. While Cleo doesn’t believe for an instant that such a celebrity as Ethan could be interested in a relationship with her, a 52 year old baker, it seems her newfound friends do!
As the story transpires, the reader learns that Ethan is in port to replace a failed water pump, rescues an innocent animal, and is lured by a lovely lady. The reader is also there when a lying, cheating spouse-ish reappears. But what happens next, when people circle around and support a dear lady who doesn’t know her value to the town, is purely a testament to the better part of humanity!
I very much enjoyed this book and do recommend it!
Long days at her bakery and the baking classes Cleo teaches bring her joy and satisfaction, but her social life is solitary. And then a certain gentleman of her age-ish enters the bakery for a coffee and may just change her humdrum life. Cleo has the feeling of recognition but it takes her a bit to realize the man before her is Ethan Crisp. Ethan played a private investigator for three seasons on a very popular tv series, but then disappeared, until appearing here before her. This is only the first of many visits he will make.
In fact, when he asks Cleo out to dinner, the three ladies in her class, builder Megan Alexander, homemaker Libby Brown, and former model Brooke Mattson, make it their business to do a make over of sorts for Cleo. While Cleo doesn’t believe for an instant that such a celebrity as Ethan could be interested in a relationship with her, a 52 year old baker, it seems her newfound friends do!
As the story transpires, the reader learns that Ethan is in port to replace a failed water pump, rescues an innocent animal, and is lured by a lovely lady. The reader is also there when a lying, cheating spouse-ish reappears. But what happens next, when people circle around and support a dear lady who doesn’t know her value to the town, is purely a testament to the better part of humanity!
I very much enjoyed this book and do recommend it!
August 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing as well as the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #StormPublishing #SaraJaneBailey #TheBakeryatClamshellBay
Title: The Bakery at Clamshell Bay
Author: Sara Jane Bailey
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Publication Date: August 4, 2023
This is the first in a series and it’s the better of the two so far. This one tells the story of Cleo Duvall and her three friends that she meets in her weekend baking class. She runs the Clamshell Bakery, which is famous for its cinnamon buns. Cleo is divorced and is content with her predictable, safe, and comfortable life, until a handsome, maybe not-so-stranger walks into her bakery. You know the rest!
This book was definitely a feel good treat as yummy as a cinnamon bun in the morning. I enjoyed it much more than the second one. It was nice that they came out together so that one could be fresh in my mind as they both involve the same charming setting and characters. I found the writing in this installment to be much better and well established than in the second book. The reader gets a better sense of the community of Clamshell Bay and the characters are much more fleshed out and embraceable. This one gave me Debbie Johnson’s Comfort Food Cafe’ vibes and I loved it for that. The romance was comfortable and predictable and I loved the celebrity twist of it. We’ve all had that dream.
All in all, this story was heart-warming and comforting. The literary equivalent of soup and grilled cheese on a rainy night. I hope that there will be more and that they will be more like this book.
#NetGalley #StormPublishing #SaraJaneBailey #TheBakeryatClamshellBay
Title: The Bakery at Clamshell Bay
Author: Sara Jane Bailey
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Publication Date: August 4, 2023
This is the first in a series and it’s the better of the two so far. This one tells the story of Cleo Duvall and her three friends that she meets in her weekend baking class. She runs the Clamshell Bakery, which is famous for its cinnamon buns. Cleo is divorced and is content with her predictable, safe, and comfortable life, until a handsome, maybe not-so-stranger walks into her bakery. You know the rest!
This book was definitely a feel good treat as yummy as a cinnamon bun in the morning. I enjoyed it much more than the second one. It was nice that they came out together so that one could be fresh in my mind as they both involve the same charming setting and characters. I found the writing in this installment to be much better and well established than in the second book. The reader gets a better sense of the community of Clamshell Bay and the characters are much more fleshed out and embraceable. This one gave me Debbie Johnson’s Comfort Food Cafe’ vibes and I loved it for that. The romance was comfortable and predictable and I loved the celebrity twist of it. We’ve all had that dream.
All in all, this story was heart-warming and comforting. The literary equivalent of soup and grilled cheese on a rainy night. I hope that there will be more and that they will be more like this book.
August 8, 2023
The Bakery at Clamshell Bay by Sara Jane Bailey is a lovely story about the power of friendship. 4 very different women find their lives linked, and are empowered by each other. Clamshell Bay is a beautiful, affluent place, with lovely houses, and a friendly community. Cleo owns the bakery and is famous for her cinnamon buns, bread and her coffee. The bakery is the hub of the bay, a place for catch ups with friends, or just for passing the time with a coffee and a pastry. Brooke is a tall, beautiful ex-model who seems to be living the perfect life. Megan is a rebel, doing her own thing her own way, and Libby is a wife and mother. All four are brought together when Cleo runs a baking class that they all attend, and as they get to know each other, secrets are revealed, as well as past hurts and present troubles, and they rally around each other, providing the love and care that each need. Ethan is an ex-actor who stops at Clamshell Bay to order a part that he needs for his boat. He meets Cleo, and gets to know her and the others. He carries a lot of emotional baggage with him, and hides a lot of his past. With the help of Delilah, a tiny one-eared kitten that he adopts, he finds himself drawn into Clamshell Bay, and the lives of its’ inhabitants. I loved the story, engaged with the characters, and really enjoyed the book.
July 28, 2023
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆
Cleo lives in a small coastal Pacific Northwest town, where she runs the bakery started by her grandmother and passed down by her late mother. She’s content with her life and living in the little cottage on the sea outside of town. But when a handsome stranger walks into the bakery and takes a liking to her, she’s not sure whether she is able to trust a wandering guy again.
𝗠𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
This is my first read of this new to me author and I really enjoyed the small town love story that didn’t just bring a new relationship but also new friends in the form of the three ladies joining Cleo’s baking class. The town is almost an entire character in itself, as is the charming former tv actor who arrives on his sailboat and adopts a kitten and a new love while he is about it. It’s a charming read, although I think one less reference to the MMC being pretty decent looking for his age 🙈 and the FMC being tall and lean would have been fine too 😉
I read an eARC copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.
Cleo lives in a small coastal Pacific Northwest town, where she runs the bakery started by her grandmother and passed down by her late mother. She’s content with her life and living in the little cottage on the sea outside of town. But when a handsome stranger walks into the bakery and takes a liking to her, she’s not sure whether she is able to trust a wandering guy again.
𝗠𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
This is my first read of this new to me author and I really enjoyed the small town love story that didn’t just bring a new relationship but also new friends in the form of the three ladies joining Cleo’s baking class. The town is almost an entire character in itself, as is the charming former tv actor who arrives on his sailboat and adopts a kitten and a new love while he is about it. It’s a charming read, although I think one less reference to the MMC being pretty decent looking for his age 🙈 and the FMC being tall and lean would have been fine too 😉
I read an eARC copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher.
September 11, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Sara Jane Bailey, and Storm Publishing, for an ARC copy of "The Bakery at Clamshell Bay".
"The Bakery at Clamshell Bay" is a delightful and heartwarming novel that will whisk you away to the charming town of Clamshell Bay on the Washington State coast. The main character is Cleo Duvall, a baker with a passion for her craft and a café that serves as the heart of the community.
Cleo teaches a weekend baking class, bringing together a diverse group of women. Each student carries her own unique set of dreams, challenges, and secrets. From Brooke, the former supermodel yearning to become a mother, to Libby, the seemingly perfect homemaker with hidden troubles, and Megan, the free-spirited painter with commitment issues, their lives are as diverse as the flavours in Cleo's bakery. The women bond over the magic of bread dough and the aroma of freshly baked goods.
Sara Jane Bailey's storytelling will leave you craving not only Cleo's famous cinnamon buns but also the warmth and love that permeate the pages of this charming novel.
"The Bakery at Clamshell Bay" is a delightful and heartwarming novel that will whisk you away to the charming town of Clamshell Bay on the Washington State coast. The main character is Cleo Duvall, a baker with a passion for her craft and a café that serves as the heart of the community.
Cleo teaches a weekend baking class, bringing together a diverse group of women. Each student carries her own unique set of dreams, challenges, and secrets. From Brooke, the former supermodel yearning to become a mother, to Libby, the seemingly perfect homemaker with hidden troubles, and Megan, the free-spirited painter with commitment issues, their lives are as diverse as the flavours in Cleo's bakery. The women bond over the magic of bread dough and the aroma of freshly baked goods.
Sara Jane Bailey's storytelling will leave you craving not only Cleo's famous cinnamon buns but also the warmth and love that permeate the pages of this charming novel.
August 14, 2024
As a reader, literature teacher, and writer, I've come to value characters I enjoy, whose lives and personalities interest me.
Bailey's folk in coastal Clamshell Bay are the sort of people one might hang around, Oh, to share in Cleo's baking class and gain the secret to her cinnamon rolls! Better still, to be a member of her circle. I am male and therefore precluded, I know, from her tight knit group of girlfriends willing to help slightly-past-middle-aged Cleo makeover for what might be a very special first date. And, frankly, a man might be envious--I don't know that bonding over beers and football can work the same.
As introduction to what one hopes will be a series, BAKERY fulfills its story reasonably, delineates its characters clearly, and ends with hope for more about this town and this crew.
The question left for this Washington reader is, just which coastal town is the model for Clamshell Bay? I suppose I'll have to start exploring all the bakeries.
Bailey's folk in coastal Clamshell Bay are the sort of people one might hang around, Oh, to share in Cleo's baking class and gain the secret to her cinnamon rolls! Better still, to be a member of her circle. I am male and therefore precluded, I know, from her tight knit group of girlfriends willing to help slightly-past-middle-aged Cleo makeover for what might be a very special first date. And, frankly, a man might be envious--I don't know that bonding over beers and football can work the same.
As introduction to what one hopes will be a series, BAKERY fulfills its story reasonably, delineates its characters clearly, and ends with hope for more about this town and this crew.
The question left for this Washington reader is, just which coastal town is the model for Clamshell Bay? I suppose I'll have to start exploring all the bakeries.
September 9, 2023
As a recent visitor to Washington state, I fell in love with the quaint towns, water views, numerous islands, and countless coves tucked in around the state. Sara Jane Bailey did an extraordinary job capturing these elements in this first novel of her Clamshell Bay series. Bakery owner, Cleo Duvall, was a strong woman with a passion for her craft, a loyal friend willing to pour into others, and a proud business owner and lifetime resident of Clamshell Bay. She was an easy protagonist to root for, so when former actor, Ethan Crisp, begins showing interest in Cleo, I was hooked. As the two began spending more time together, Ethan was often making repairs for Cleo while she was happy to offer frequent coffee and home-cooked meals. When an unfortunate situation blindsides Cleo, Crisp is there to help her navigate through the related hurdles. I appreciated the fact that Bailey did not sugar-coat the hard things some of her characters were working through, making the novel very believable and relatable. I think readers will all hope to find the spirit of friendship and support found in Clamshell Bay in their own communities. Thank you to #NetGalley for an ARC of #TheBakeryAtClamshellBay. I listened to the audio version of this work. All opinions are my own.
March 12, 2024
This was an enjoyable read that was light and wholesome. Book 1 in the Clamshell bay series. Cleo runs the local bakery and it's the town center for good bakery items and local gossip. Set in a tourist area in the Pacific Northwest, Cleo gives baking classes as a way to make money in the off season. This class includes, Brooke Mattson, a former supermodel who dreams of being a mom but is struggling to have a baby; Libby Brown, a proud homemaker whose happy family isn’t as perfect as it seems; and Megan Alexander, the local painter who may be free-spirited – or a commitment-phobe. When an older ex actor stops in town for boat repairs these older women all recognize him. Ethan is fascinated by Cleo and together they adopt a kitten and fight off attempts by her ex to take over her business. A wonderful story and look forward to more.
September 10, 2023
A sweet, easy to read romantic book about life in a small coastal town in Washington state . Cleo has a bakery and is loved by most of the townspeople. When a stranger rocks up in a yacht for coffee, they quickly establish a friendship. The book is told from both Cleo's and Ethan's point of view. Nice to read a book about romance and friendship after the bloom of youth. Both Cleo and Ethan have past relationships and lived a life with ups and downs.
I like the descriptions of the town , the baking and the people. Perhaps the friendships were a bit too rapid ? Nevertheless it was an entertaining read without being too twee
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I like the descriptions of the town , the baking and the people. Perhaps the friendships were a bit too rapid ? Nevertheless it was an entertaining read without being too twee
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and the introduction to Clamshell Bay. Cleo’s story was a fun, easy read, perfect for a beach read. This book had plenty of twist and turns that kept it interesting and unexpected throughout. The setting was cute and quaint. Clamshell Bay is the quintessential storybook town, and the characters were very different from one another but made for interesting storylines.
Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this book and thank you to the author as well.
Cleo’s story and an introduction to Clamshell Bay.
Thank you to NetGalley for letting me read this book and thank you to the author as well.
Cleo’s story and an introduction to Clamshell Bay.
September 19, 2023
I loved this book. A real feelgood story about an older woman running her own bakery and cafe. She lacks self belief, but soon has her life turned around by a visitor to her cafe in Clamshell Bay.. The local community are fully supportive of her, the ladies who attended her bakery classes are delightful. All the characters are well written and very true to life.
I can recommend this book to those who enjoy romance or want an enjoyable holiday read.
I can recommend this book to those who enjoy romance or want an enjoyable holiday read.
September 1, 2023
Everything about this book I love it. I truly enjoy the small-town vibe and there are no characters I didn't like (except the ex-husband). I just find the ending a bit rushed (that's why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5.) But overall, It was a fun read for me. Looking forward to being back in Clamshell Bay with the second book. :) Thank you Net Gallery and Storm Publishing,
September 6, 2023
I listened to the audiobook version of this story. The narrator was a bit monotone.
I found myself drifting during this book. The first 30% of this book was good. The rest felt as if it dragged on and served very little purpose to the actual end of the story. The idea was good but the execution was boring.
I found myself drifting during this book. The first 30% of this book was good. The rest felt as if it dragged on and served very little purpose to the actual end of the story. The idea was good but the execution was boring.
September 26, 2023
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this audio book.
This was a sweet read. A little corny but not too over done. I loved all the characters and will definitely look into reading more in the series! The only complaint for me was, while the narrator was good, the main character felt more like a 70 year old lady than 50 at times!
This was a sweet read. A little corny but not too over done. I loved all the characters and will definitely look into reading more in the series! The only complaint for me was, while the narrator was good, the main character felt more like a 70 year old lady than 50 at times!
September 1, 2023
This was a super cute book and I don't even really like romance! It was romance without being super sticky sweet or graphic sexy. The male MC also really respected women, which I was totally here for! And I really want to go to her bakery, it sounds amazing!
#TheBakeryatClamshellBay
#NetGalley
#TheBakeryatClamshellBay
#NetGalley
September 15, 2023
An absolutely lovely love story with so many delicious cakes and loaves as well!
from the meet cute between Cleo and "the man off the telly" to the reappearance of her ex the book is brimful of stolen glances, amazing characters and great imagery.
I will be returning to Clamshell Bay for sure!
from the meet cute between Cleo and "the man off the telly" to the reappearance of her ex the book is brimful of stolen glances, amazing characters and great imagery.
I will be returning to Clamshell Bay for sure!
September 23, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Really enjoyed this lovely book. Looking forward to reading the next one in the series as well. I also listened to the audiobook format.
Great feel good read.
Really enjoyed this lovely book. Looking forward to reading the next one in the series as well. I also listened to the audiobook format.
Great feel good read.
November 29, 2023
Wonderful aromas waft off the pages from the Clamshell Bakery and Cafe, but lovely owner Cleo is extremely tense.
This is a lovely romance, with many twists and turns.
I enjoyed this book immensely.
This is a lovely romance, with many twists and turns.
I enjoyed this book immensely.
August 2, 2023
As a quick summer evening read it’s great! It did make me want to eat lots of bread though 😂
A nice easy read and I am looking forward to the next one
A nice easy read and I am looking forward to the next one
September 6, 2023
This was a nice read - not challenging, but interesting enough to hold my attention.
The author is also known as Nancy Warren...
The author is also known as Nancy Warren...
September 6, 2023
I loved this feel good book based around friendship and loyalty. the writing style made you feel as if you were there with the lovely characters. I look forward to reading more from this author
September 7, 2023
An incredibly sweet story.
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