What do you think?
Rate this book
Micklewick Bay #2
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage
Welcome to your happy place…
As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around. Can they help Maggie weather this storm and find her way back to happily ever after? Or is trouble here to stay?
Escape to Micklewick Bay in an uplifting, feel-good page-turner for fans of Heidi Swain, Jenny Colgan and Phillipa Ashley.
As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around. Can they help Maggie weather this storm and find her way back to happily ever after? Or is trouble here to stay?
Escape to Micklewick Bay in an uplifting, feel-good page-turner for fans of Heidi Swain, Jenny Colgan and Phillipa Ashley.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2024
535 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Eliza J. Scott
16 books96 followersEliza writes heartwarming romance stories with happy endings.
She lives in North Yorkshire with her family. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book/glued to her Kindle or working in her garden. Eliza also enjoys bracing walks in the countryside, rounded off by a visit to a teashop where she can indulge in another two of her favourite things: tea and cake.
Eliza is inspired by her beautiful surroundings and loves to write stories that will make you cry tears of joy, laughter and sadness.
You can find out more or get in touch here:
Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/elizajscot...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizajscott/
She lives in North Yorkshire with her family. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book/glued to her Kindle or working in her garden. Eliza also enjoys bracing walks in the countryside, rounded off by a visit to a teashop where she can indulge in another two of her favourite things: tea and cake.
Eliza is inspired by her beautiful surroundings and loves to write stories that will make you cry tears of joy, laughter and sadness.
You can find out more or get in touch here:
Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/elizajscot...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizajscott/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
April 14, 2024
Did we all read the same book?! I am completely infuriated right now.
You would think looking at the cover that this is going to be a lighthearted book with low-stakes drama and a nice summer time feel? Not so much. I have never felt so frustrated at a story. I did not DNF because I wanted to read the conclusion of the story but I did come close. I had an absolute sick feeling in my stomach the entire time once the FMC's cousin entered the picture. The FMC's anxiety about her cousin and her motives was very effective, so I applaud the author for creating that dread. But once the MMC started gaslighting the FMC and not putting boundaries with her cousin, I was so done with him.
The FMC's friends and in-laws were absolutely lovely but nothing can convince me that the FMC and MMC should be together after all the shit he hid and pulled. And that is definitely not something you want to feel when you finish a "romance" book.
I appreciate receiving this ARC in exchange for this VERY honest review.
You would think looking at the cover that this is going to be a lighthearted book with low-stakes drama and a nice summer time feel? Not so much. I have never felt so frustrated at a story. I did not DNF because I wanted to read the conclusion of the story but I did come close. I had an absolute sick feeling in my stomach the entire time once the FMC's cousin entered the picture. The FMC's anxiety about her cousin and her motives was very effective, so I applaud the author for creating that dread. But once the MMC started gaslighting the FMC and not putting boundaries with her cousin, I was so done with him.
The FMC's friends and in-laws were absolutely lovely but nothing can convince me that the FMC and MMC should be together after all the shit he hid and pulled. And that is definitely not something you want to feel when you finish a "romance" book.
I appreciate receiving this ARC in exchange for this VERY honest review.
May 21, 2024
I feel bamboozled by the cover of this book and the amazing cozy vibes of the town because this was anything but.
I’m so happy for Maggie and she deserves all the good things in life but I swear to Bob if she mentioned anything with lemon one more time….
And the whole Robyn situation felt so dumb to me. I would never in my life let anyone stay with me if I haven’t heard from them for 15 years.
And Bear? The entire reason why I won’t rate this higher. How dare he not say anything for so long. Like I just don’t understand. And to act the way he did while Robyn was there? Nope.
The Robyn plot line was so quick to be pushed under the rug at the end that I didn’t get the satisfaction feeling at all.
Thank you Net Galley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
I’m so happy for Maggie and she deserves all the good things in life but I swear to Bob if she mentioned anything with lemon one more time….
And the whole Robyn situation felt so dumb to me. I would never in my life let anyone stay with me if I haven’t heard from them for 15 years.
And Bear? The entire reason why I won’t rate this higher. How dare he not say anything for so long. Like I just don’t understand. And to act the way he did while Robyn was there? Nope.
The Robyn plot line was so quick to be pushed under the rug at the end that I didn’t get the satisfaction feeling at all.
Thank you Net Galley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
May 9, 2024
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage by Eliza J. Scott
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Welcome to your happy place…
As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around. Can they help Maggie weather this storm and find her way back to happily ever after? Or is trouble here to stay?
My Opinion
My second visit to Micklewick Bay was a real page-turner, this could work as a standalone. This was a sweet, light-hearted read although it did touch on some darker topics. I really loved the idea of Maggie sewing her bears, they just sounded lovely. I read this book over a day, each time I put it down I was eager to return. Micklewick Bay sounds like such a lovely place to visit.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Welcome to your happy place…
As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around. Can they help Maggie weather this storm and find her way back to happily ever after? Or is trouble here to stay?
My Opinion
My second visit to Micklewick Bay was a real page-turner, this could work as a standalone. This was a sweet, light-hearted read although it did touch on some darker topics. I really loved the idea of Maggie sewing her bears, they just sounded lovely. I read this book over a day, each time I put it down I was eager to return. Micklewick Bay sounds like such a lovely place to visit.
Rating 4/5
May 11, 2024
Welcome to your happy place…and Micklewick Bay really is now firmly one of my book happy places to retreat to. I have been having a difficult time lately and this series has really helped me escape and remind me of the happiness in life and the good in people, it’s been a little shining light for me.
I love Maggie so much, Bear too but I connected most to Maggie as I’m a crafter (sewing, crochet etc) and now I want to try my hand at teddy bears, but I know how difficult it is, but I could just see Maggie sewing her little bears and not only did I connect but I want one too. Robyn is, well no spoilers, but I dislike her and she was a good vent for my anger as Maggie and her friends,the community were a balm to me.
I very much appreciate the skill Eliza J Scott has in writing these characters and making me able to connect to or even dislike characters, it’s always so fascinating to me that an invented person on a page can mean so much to you when written with talent and care.
This is a lovely, light read, but with some drama and because of the authors wonderful writing is so easy to fall into and get absorbed into the characters lives. I can’t wait to dive into the next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love Maggie so much, Bear too but I connected most to Maggie as I’m a crafter (sewing, crochet etc) and now I want to try my hand at teddy bears, but I know how difficult it is, but I could just see Maggie sewing her little bears and not only did I connect but I want one too. Robyn is, well no spoilers, but I dislike her and she was a good vent for my anger as Maggie and her friends,the community were a balm to me.
I very much appreciate the skill Eliza J Scott has in writing these characters and making me able to connect to or even dislike characters, it’s always so fascinating to me that an invented person on a page can mean so much to you when written with talent and care.
This is a lovely, light read, but with some drama and because of the authors wonderful writing is so easy to fall into and get absorbed into the characters lives. I can’t wait to dive into the next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 2, 2024
I gave this book 3 1/2 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you Net Galley and Storm Publishing for the ARC of Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage.
This was a perfect palette cleanser for me! The story is well laid out and I couldn’t put it down! Although, the cover is deceiving - it looks like a sweet, light hearted read, but it had its darker moments.
I didn’t “love” any of the characters. I was rooting for Maggie and Bear, but they were just “lukewarm likable”. Robyn was atrocious.
The writing was good! It propelled the story forward and made it hard to put down at times.
This was a perfect palette cleanser for me! The story is well laid out and I couldn’t put it down! Although, the cover is deceiving - it looks like a sweet, light hearted read, but it had its darker moments.
I didn’t “love” any of the characters. I was rooting for Maggie and Bear, but they were just “lukewarm likable”. Robyn was atrocious.
The writing was good! It propelled the story forward and made it hard to put down at times.
March 19, 2025
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is the second book in the series, and while it can be enjoyed without reading the first book, I believe it still offers enough emotional depth and context for newcomers to jump right in. This novel takes you on an emotional rollercoaster—combining anxiety, lust, moments of hope, and intense anger, making for a gripping and unpredictable read.
The characters are well-drawn, and there are definitely a few that will leave you frustrated. Robyn, in particular, stands out as a character who seems to be deserving of some serious karmic retribution. Her actions will leave readers questioning why others even tolerate her, adding a layer of tension to the plot.
For fans of Desperate Housewives or tales involving the rich and famous, this book offers the same kind of compelling drama. It's a perfect read for a relaxing day at the beach, though be prepared to feel the urge to shake a few of the characters (or perhaps throw the book across the room in frustration).
Overall, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is a satisfying and emotionally charged novel that keeps you hooked, even if you’re occasionally shaking your head at the characters' decisions.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the DRC!
The characters are well-drawn, and there are definitely a few that will leave you frustrated. Robyn, in particular, stands out as a character who seems to be deserving of some serious karmic retribution. Her actions will leave readers questioning why others even tolerate her, adding a layer of tension to the plot.
For fans of Desperate Housewives or tales involving the rich and famous, this book offers the same kind of compelling drama. It's a perfect read for a relaxing day at the beach, though be prepared to feel the urge to shake a few of the characters (or perhaps throw the book across the room in frustration).
Overall, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is a satisfying and emotionally charged novel that keeps you hooked, even if you’re occasionally shaking your head at the characters' decisions.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the DRC!
May 8, 2024
Maggie is trying to get her business off the ground. She and her husband Bear are finally expecting their first child. The last thing she needs is her cousin showing up.
I liked all the characters with the exception of Robyn. I wanted to reach into the book and pull her out and stomp on her. This is the perfect beach read.
I liked all the characters with the exception of Robyn. I wanted to reach into the book and pull her out and stomp on her. This is the perfect beach read.
July 3, 2025
Not a solid 3, really just barely made it.
When I read the first book in this series, I thought this could be a good Summer read, but I couldn’t stand Maggie accepting yet another bad request from her terrible cousin Robyn and I quickly got tired of this book.
Yes, it is meant to annoy you and have you hoping poor Maggie gets a happy ending, but I ended up disliking all characters in the end due to their lack of consistency.
The only good thing going for it is that it could read on its own, but there isn’t much going for the story otherwise.
When I read the first book in this series, I thought this could be a good Summer read, but I couldn’t stand Maggie accepting yet another bad request from her terrible cousin Robyn and I quickly got tired of this book.
Yes, it is meant to annoy you and have you hoping poor Maggie gets a happy ending, but I ended up disliking all characters in the end due to their lack of consistency.
The only good thing going for it is that it could read on its own, but there isn’t much going for the story otherwise.
June 4, 2024
Sadly, I did not enjoy this one near as much as book 1. I found it a struggle to finish this one. I listened to the audio book and was tempted several times to skip full chapters. I felt like this book could have been cut in half and have been more enjoyable. It felt soooo dragged out to me. The way it ended was very anticlimactic and extremely disappointing. There was setup between the myster man and the cousin, but instead she ran back to her mom and whines. Zero consequences for stealing thousands? Ugh. I expected a much better ending. The only reason I gave this 2 stars is because the couple was already married and we rarely see that in romances. So it was a nice representation.
April 15, 2024
Although this is part of a series of, it still works as a standalone book. Based around a group of friends who live at Micklewick Bay, it focuses on Mags this time. When her nasty cousin reappears in her life, things become difficult. This is a warm hearted book, with lots of lovely characters. Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advance copy to review.
June 1, 2024
Although I did enjoy this one I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one in this series. It was a little bit dull at times and a little predictable. Having said that I would read the next one in this series. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2025
This was one of the most frustrating books I’ve ever read. The antagonist was so annoying I wanted to jump through the book and scream or slap her! Grrr!
April 29, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage by Eliza J. Scott is a single-POV contemporary novel focusing on Maggie, her husband, Bear, and Maggie’s cousin, Robyn, when Robyn randomly shows up at Maggie’s door after years of estrangement and causes havoc in Maggie and Bear’s lives. As Robyn overstays her welcome, Maggie is trying to find a way to tell Bear that she’s pregnant after years of trying.
Robyn is everyone’s worst nightmare when it comes to house guests. Not only does Robyn come over without any warning, she overstays her welcome, uses Maggie’s soap that is quite expensive without asking, and leaves her things everywhere, she also tries to get cozy with Bear right in front of Maggie. It’s infuriating to read Robyn continuing to force herself into bear and Maggie’s lives but you also understand why the couple don’t say anything as both are quieter and less confrontational people. Robyn takes advantage of their personalities to get her way.
Maggie is a sympathetic character that is hard not to root for when she achieves something and when she encounters a roadblock. She makes stuffed bears on commission and gets a contract from a department store to make limited edition bears for their new launch. Maggie’s love of lemon-flavored things is brought up often and is even reflected in the bright yellow cover, a color of happiness and the fruit.
I would recommend this to fans of contemporaries centering a marriage that has external forces causing friction, readers looking for a book that celebrates creative women and discusses pregnancy and fertility, and those looking for small town contemporaries where guests overstay their welcome.
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage by Eliza J. Scott is a single-POV contemporary novel focusing on Maggie, her husband, Bear, and Maggie’s cousin, Robyn, when Robyn randomly shows up at Maggie’s door after years of estrangement and causes havoc in Maggie and Bear’s lives. As Robyn overstays her welcome, Maggie is trying to find a way to tell Bear that she’s pregnant after years of trying.
Robyn is everyone’s worst nightmare when it comes to house guests. Not only does Robyn come over without any warning, she overstays her welcome, uses Maggie’s soap that is quite expensive without asking, and leaves her things everywhere, she also tries to get cozy with Bear right in front of Maggie. It’s infuriating to read Robyn continuing to force herself into bear and Maggie’s lives but you also understand why the couple don’t say anything as both are quieter and less confrontational people. Robyn takes advantage of their personalities to get her way.
Maggie is a sympathetic character that is hard not to root for when she achieves something and when she encounters a roadblock. She makes stuffed bears on commission and gets a contract from a department store to make limited edition bears for their new launch. Maggie’s love of lemon-flavored things is brought up often and is even reflected in the bright yellow cover, a color of happiness and the fruit.
I would recommend this to fans of contemporaries centering a marriage that has external forces causing friction, readers looking for a book that celebrates creative women and discusses pregnancy and fertility, and those looking for small town contemporaries where guests overstay their welcome.
May 11, 2024
I have been looking forward to reading the rest of this series for quite some time, so I dived right into this story and loved every moment. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t enjoy reading about Robyn’s effect on Maggie and Bear, but I knew that they were safe in the author’s hands, or at least I hoped that would be the case.
We first met Maggie and Bear in the first book of this series. Their marriage was solid, and I knew that it would take a mighty force to cause any damage to their relationship. I was right, and we soon had to sit back and witness the impact of Robyn’s meddling.
Maggie and Bear are incredible characters. They share a connection that many couples can only dream about. Despite the challenges that they have faced together, they are still united in their desire to start a family; if only Maggie could carry a pregnancy to term. With the benefit of reading the previous book, I knew that they were a perfect match, but if this is your first trip to Micklewick Bay, you’ll soon understand that they are meant to be together.
I’d love to say that Robyn is a complex character, but that would be being kind. Her brand of manipulation and interference is toxic, and I took an instant dislike to her. It didn’t help that I am all too familiar with her type, and I had no desire to see her triumph. It’s a testament to the author’s skill that I was swiftly able to invest in, hoping for her comeuppance. When Eliza J Scott dreams up a bad penny, she doesn’t hold back!
Once again, this is an ensemble story, and we spend time with Maggie’s friendship group and enjoy their wonderful connections. Whilst enduring the challenges to her happiness, Maggie does get some good news that could shape her future. Despite the serious events in the story, this book is written with hope and a huge heart that kept me invested in hoping for a happy ending.
We first met Maggie and Bear in the first book of this series. Their marriage was solid, and I knew that it would take a mighty force to cause any damage to their relationship. I was right, and we soon had to sit back and witness the impact of Robyn’s meddling.
Maggie and Bear are incredible characters. They share a connection that many couples can only dream about. Despite the challenges that they have faced together, they are still united in their desire to start a family; if only Maggie could carry a pregnancy to term. With the benefit of reading the previous book, I knew that they were a perfect match, but if this is your first trip to Micklewick Bay, you’ll soon understand that they are meant to be together.
I’d love to say that Robyn is a complex character, but that would be being kind. Her brand of manipulation and interference is toxic, and I took an instant dislike to her. It didn’t help that I am all too familiar with her type, and I had no desire to see her triumph. It’s a testament to the author’s skill that I was swiftly able to invest in, hoping for her comeuppance. When Eliza J Scott dreams up a bad penny, she doesn’t hold back!
Once again, this is an ensemble story, and we spend time with Maggie’s friendship group and enjoy their wonderful connections. Whilst enduring the challenges to her happiness, Maggie does get some good news that could shape her future. Despite the serious events in the story, this book is written with hope and a huge heart that kept me invested in hoping for a happy ending.
August 16, 2024
Readers looking for emotional and feel-good women’s fiction will love the latest novel by Eliza J Scott, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage.
Maggie Marsay is on top of the world. She has managed to turn her passion of making teddy bears into a successful and thriving business and after years of trying for a baby with her beloved husband, Bear, her dream of having a family is about to come true. Maggie is on cloud nine – until a face from her past returns suddenly to cast a dark shadow over her happiness.
Maggie hasn’t seen Robyn in over a decade and she cannot help but feel apprehensive about her return. What could have compelled Robyn to come back into her life? And why? Is Robyn repentant and willing to make amends for how she behaved in the past? Or is she about to cause trouble for Maggie and Bear? Maggie might have decided to let bygones be bygones and let Robyn into her home, but when her presence begins to cause a rift between her and Bear, she wonders whether the future she had always wanted is now in jeopardy – or whether her husband will prove to her that she’s the only woman for him!
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is sun-drenched romantic escapism at its most uplifting. Eliza J Scott knows how to pen heartwarming reads that keep readers engrossed and entertained until the end and she does it brilliantly in Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage. A wonderful yarn about healing from the past, second chances and the power of friendship, love and community, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is a terrific romance that is a joy from start to finish!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Maggie Marsay is on top of the world. She has managed to turn her passion of making teddy bears into a successful and thriving business and after years of trying for a baby with her beloved husband, Bear, her dream of having a family is about to come true. Maggie is on cloud nine – until a face from her past returns suddenly to cast a dark shadow over her happiness.
Maggie hasn’t seen Robyn in over a decade and she cannot help but feel apprehensive about her return. What could have compelled Robyn to come back into her life? And why? Is Robyn repentant and willing to make amends for how she behaved in the past? Or is she about to cause trouble for Maggie and Bear? Maggie might have decided to let bygones be bygones and let Robyn into her home, but when her presence begins to cause a rift between her and Bear, she wonders whether the future she had always wanted is now in jeopardy – or whether her husband will prove to her that she’s the only woman for him!
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is sun-drenched romantic escapism at its most uplifting. Eliza J Scott knows how to pen heartwarming reads that keep readers engrossed and entertained until the end and she does it brilliantly in Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage. A wonderful yarn about healing from the past, second chances and the power of friendship, love and community, Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage is a terrific romance that is a joy from start to finish!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2024
I love this Micklewick Bay series! It's such a breath of fresh air.
Each book seems to focus on one of the "lasses", one of the ladies in the friend group. In this book, we follow Maggie- a small business owner in the business of making soft toys out of recycled material. She lives in a cottage in Micklewick Bay with her husband of nine years, Bear, and their dog Daphne. Everything seems to be going great, almost perfect now that Maggie and Bear are pregnant after years of difficulty.. until Maggie receives a letter from her toxic and drama-loving cousin, Robyn. In the letter Robyn expresses how she's heading to Micklewick Bay and would love to reconnect with Maggie. Maggie is unsure of how to respond, being that she has never really had the most positive relationship with Robyn, so she holds off. And of course, Robyn just pops up! Robyn's arrival sends Maggie's anxiety through the roof, and when Robyn pitches a sob story to Maggie, Maggie feels guilty and lets Robyn temporarily stay with her. It's all downhill from there..
This read was a perfect light drama, but also nice and airy given the overall setting. I loved the friend group and how each individual had their own unique personality. I also enjoyed reading about this Robyn rollercoaster and the extra characters like Ando added some fun and banter. Such a great spring/ summer read!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Eliza J Scott for this wonderful book!
Each book seems to focus on one of the "lasses", one of the ladies in the friend group. In this book, we follow Maggie- a small business owner in the business of making soft toys out of recycled material. She lives in a cottage in Micklewick Bay with her husband of nine years, Bear, and their dog Daphne. Everything seems to be going great, almost perfect now that Maggie and Bear are pregnant after years of difficulty.. until Maggie receives a letter from her toxic and drama-loving cousin, Robyn. In the letter Robyn expresses how she's heading to Micklewick Bay and would love to reconnect with Maggie. Maggie is unsure of how to respond, being that she has never really had the most positive relationship with Robyn, so she holds off. And of course, Robyn just pops up! Robyn's arrival sends Maggie's anxiety through the roof, and when Robyn pitches a sob story to Maggie, Maggie feels guilty and lets Robyn temporarily stay with her. It's all downhill from there..
This read was a perfect light drama, but also nice and airy given the overall setting. I loved the friend group and how each individual had their own unique personality. I also enjoyed reading about this Robyn rollercoaster and the extra characters like Ando added some fun and banter. Such a great spring/ summer read!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Eliza J Scott for this wonderful book!
June 18, 2024
In the second book in the Micklewick Bay series, Scott brings her readers back to Yorkshire and Micklewick Bay where Maggie Marsay and her husband Bear are thriving. With a successful teddy bear business and a happy surprise, life here is good for Maggie, Bear, and their friends and family. However, Maggie’s manipulative and cruel cousin Robyn has resurfaced in their town, and Maggie is immediately suspicious because of their last interaction a decade ago. As Robyn’s presence starts to sour Maggie’s successes, it affects Maggie’s relationships with her friends and Bear, so Maggie and her loyal friends must band together to protect each other and Maggie and Bear’s relationship. With kind, complex, and realistic characters, Scott has populated Micklewick Bay with some fantastic personalities. Robyn is an excellent antagonist, and Maggie and Bear’s relationship is particularly fun and heartwarming to follow. Micklewick Bay is a charming Yorkshire town with a beautiful location on the beach. The combination of characters and setting creates a fantastic atmosphere as a backdrop to the high emotional and personal stakes in this novel. With great characters, a detailed setting, and a realistically complex plot, Scott’s latest novel is an excellent continuation of the Micklewick Bay series which readers are sure to enjoy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy.
April 4, 2024
Summer Days at Clifftop Cottage by E.J. Scott, published by Storm Publishing, is book two in the Micklewick Bay Trilogy.
An heartwarming read that gives all the warm and fuzzy feelings. A beautiful story, well written, beautifully thought out and beautifully told. An happy place.
Blurb:As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around.
An heartwarming read that gives all the warm and fuzzy feelings. A beautiful story, well written, beautifully thought out and beautifully told. An happy place.
Blurb:As summer comes to the tranquil shores of Micklewick Bay, Maggie Marsay is on cloud nine. She can barely keep up with orders for her handmade teddy bears, turning her crafting hobby into a thriving business. And after trying for a baby for some time, she has joyful news to share with her devoted husband Bear who she lives with in an idyllic clifftop cottage alongside their cheeky labrador.
But an unexpected visitor casts a shadow over Maggie’s sun-drenched bliss. Robyn, a ghost from the past Maggie hasn't seen in twelve long years, arrives on their doorstep. What could have brought Robyn back into Maggie’s life after so long? Is she truly sorry for her past mistakes, or is she up to her old tricks?
Maggie welcomes Robyn into their home, trying her best to forgive and forget. But when Robyn starts to drive a wedge between her and Bear, Maggie’s close-knit group of friends and neighbours rally around.
May 30, 2024
BOOK: SUMMERTOP AT THE ROOFTOP COTTAGE
AUTHOR: ELIZA J SCOTT
PUB DATE: MAY 2023
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
REVIEW: 3.5stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I read another book in this series, and my feelings towards were similar. Both of them were slow paced, contained too much information and an annoying main character(not the villain)
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I liked the storyline of a marriage on the rocks and the couples working together. But, I'm just annoyed at Mary and Bear, especially Bear. Mary should have trusted her instincts and avoided her villainous cousin and Bear should have never been that nice and naive to Robyn. He got annoying close to the middle of the book. Nevertheless, he was a good, loving husband
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I admired Mary's business acumen and I liked her teddy bears although I didn't see then at all. The author's description was on point.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I also liked the side characters of Bear's parents and Mary's friends.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
This book was nice, I just wanted some things to be excluded. I don't know of I would be reading more books in the series
AUTHOR: ELIZA J SCOTT
PUB DATE: MAY 2023
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
REVIEW: 3.5stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I read another book in this series, and my feelings towards were similar. Both of them were slow paced, contained too much information and an annoying main character(not the villain)
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I liked the storyline of a marriage on the rocks and the couples working together. But, I'm just annoyed at Mary and Bear, especially Bear. Mary should have trusted her instincts and avoided her villainous cousin and Bear should have never been that nice and naive to Robyn. He got annoying close to the middle of the book. Nevertheless, he was a good, loving husband
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I admired Mary's business acumen and I liked her teddy bears although I didn't see then at all. The author's description was on point.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
I also liked the side characters of Bear's parents and Mary's friends.
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼👩🏼❤️💋👨🏼
This book was nice, I just wanted some things to be excluded. I don't know of I would be reading more books in the series
May 1, 2024
Maggie Marsay’s lovely home along the shores of Micklewich Bay is filled with excitement and joy. She and her husband, Bear, are expecting their first baby. Speaking of bears, her small handmade bear crafting business has become very popular after she was featured in a local magazine.
But trouble soon arrives when Maggie's cousin Robyn arrives at her Clifftop Cottage home. Maggie hadn’t seen her in over ten years, and she had hoped never to see her again. After Robyn claims to be down and out with nowhere to go, she asks Maggie for a place to stay for a few days; Maggie reluctantly welcomes her into their home, hoping she may have changed for the better. Soon, Robyn is back to her old tricks. The house is in turmoil, and when she catches Robyn flirting with Bear, she becomes fearful for her marriage and is faced with the task of getting her out of the house.
When Robyn refuses to leave and Bear hesitates to help, Maggie is now faced with the fact that she may never have her happy life back again.
But trouble soon arrives when Maggie's cousin Robyn arrives at her Clifftop Cottage home. Maggie hadn’t seen her in over ten years, and she had hoped never to see her again. After Robyn claims to be down and out with nowhere to go, she asks Maggie for a place to stay for a few days; Maggie reluctantly welcomes her into their home, hoping she may have changed for the better. Soon, Robyn is back to her old tricks. The house is in turmoil, and when she catches Robyn flirting with Bear, she becomes fearful for her marriage and is faced with the task of getting her out of the house.
When Robyn refuses to leave and Bear hesitates to help, Maggie is now faced with the fact that she may never have her happy life back again.
September 4, 2024
This is the second book of the Micklewick Bay series, I read them out of order and got to this one last, however, I think that this could work well as a standalone story as well, so don't skip it if you haven't read the first, it's definitely still worth it!
We meet Maggie, who lives with her husband Bear and whose Teddy Bear creation business is thriving. On top of that, she's finally expecting her first child, after years of trying. Trouble starts brewing when her cousin, Robyn, who she's not seen for over a decade turns up unexpected at her doorstep. Maggie welcomes her, in spite of their past, but will this doom her relationship and future plans? As Robyn's presence starts to create havoc, the close-knit community of Micklewick Bay rallies around the Maggie and Bear, embodying the strong sense of friendship and support that defines Micklewick Bay.
It's important to note that, even though the look of the book may deceive and make you think it's a lighthearted rom com, it does touch on some dark topics as well.
We meet Maggie, who lives with her husband Bear and whose Teddy Bear creation business is thriving. On top of that, she's finally expecting her first child, after years of trying. Trouble starts brewing when her cousin, Robyn, who she's not seen for over a decade turns up unexpected at her doorstep. Maggie welcomes her, in spite of their past, but will this doom her relationship and future plans? As Robyn's presence starts to create havoc, the close-knit community of Micklewick Bay rallies around the Maggie and Bear, embodying the strong sense of friendship and support that defines Micklewick Bay.
It's important to note that, even though the look of the book may deceive and make you think it's a lighthearted rom com, it does touch on some dark topics as well.
April 18, 2024
At Clifftop Cottage in Micklewick Bay, Maggie's life seems almost perfect. She's married to the love of her live who is also her best friend, she's thriving in her career, and surrounded by loving family and friends. However, everything changes when an unexpected guest disrupts her tranquil lifestyle, causing havoc and challenging her patience.
While I was bothered by Maggie's husband's lack of communication skills, which fueled unnecessary conflicts, it also made the book a compelling page-turner. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I devoured this women's fiction novel. I stepped out of my fantasy genre comfort zone with this one and I have no regrets.
I found myself completely invested in the characters, taking breaks to process emotions that were stirring. Overall, a wholesome read that introduced me to a new genre I'm excited to explore further.
While I was bothered by Maggie's husband's lack of communication skills, which fueled unnecessary conflicts, it also made the book a compelling page-turner. Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I devoured this women's fiction novel. I stepped out of my fantasy genre comfort zone with this one and I have no regrets.
I found myself completely invested in the characters, taking breaks to process emotions that were stirring. Overall, a wholesome read that introduced me to a new genre I'm excited to explore further.
May 10, 2024
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in turn for my honest review…
Summer Days At Clifftop Cottage is actually book number 2 from the Micklewick Bay series of books but can very easily be read as a stand alone without any problems.
Right from the very beginning i was pulled in to this story, it pulled me in and wouldn’t let me go until i had finished it!
It was such an easy book to read and with the author’s writing style being so lovely, it left me feeling as though i was actually in the middle of the story, enveloped in all of it’s goodness.
This was a wonderful story with Robyn thrown in to the mix to cause a fair bit of drama…
The characters were very well written and this definitely makes the perfect read for the Summer…..
Summer Days At Clifftop Cottage is actually book number 2 from the Micklewick Bay series of books but can very easily be read as a stand alone without any problems.
Right from the very beginning i was pulled in to this story, it pulled me in and wouldn’t let me go until i had finished it!
It was such an easy book to read and with the author’s writing style being so lovely, it left me feeling as though i was actually in the middle of the story, enveloped in all of it’s goodness.
This was a wonderful story with Robyn thrown in to the mix to cause a fair bit of drama…
The characters were very well written and this definitely makes the perfect read for the Summer…..
May 20, 2024
I was drawn to this book by its lovely cover and thought it would be a nice light hearted read, however, it was more than that.
Maggie and Bear are the perfect couple, Bear happily working and Maggie concentrating on her handmade teddybears. All they hope for is a little addition to their family.
This started out as a nice, lighthearted read then we were introduced to Robyn, Maggie’s cousin who she has not seen for years and it goes downhill from there.
As we delve into the book, more serious topics arise and I felt they were dealt with very well. My heart went out to Maggie with everything she was dealing with.
I loved the author's writing style with her beautiful descriptions of community life as well as the eclectic mix of characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and definitely went through a range of emotions whilst reading it. It had me hooked and I couldn't put it down.
Maggie and Bear are the perfect couple, Bear happily working and Maggie concentrating on her handmade teddybears. All they hope for is a little addition to their family.
This started out as a nice, lighthearted read then we were introduced to Robyn, Maggie’s cousin who she has not seen for years and it goes downhill from there.
As we delve into the book, more serious topics arise and I felt they were dealt with very well. My heart went out to Maggie with everything she was dealing with.
I loved the author's writing style with her beautiful descriptions of community life as well as the eclectic mix of characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and definitely went through a range of emotions whilst reading it. It had me hooked and I couldn't put it down.
August 16, 2024
I enjoyed the return trip to Micklewick Bay. Although there are some familiar characters in the background, this is Maggie and Bear's story and what an uplifting tale it is. Living in the idyllic clifftop setting in their beautiful cottage, they are happily getting on with their lives until the arrival of an unwelcome guest. Maggie is too kind for her own good some times, but even her patience s stretched to the limit.
With Bear's close-knit family nearby and a strong circle of friends, there are plenty to keep a look out for Maggie, although she has a few secrets of her own. She also needs to recognise her own talents and put herself first more often. This is a lovely, uplifting read for those who enjoy a spot of romance set in a beautiful environment.
In short: uplifting reading
thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
With Bear's close-knit family nearby and a strong circle of friends, there are plenty to keep a look out for Maggie, although she has a few secrets of her own. She also needs to recognise her own talents and put herself first more often. This is a lovely, uplifting read for those who enjoy a spot of romance set in a beautiful environment.
In short: uplifting reading
thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
August 10, 2025
Maggie is on cloud nine. Her handmade bears are selling well, and she has some exciting news to share with her husband. But there is a nasty thorn on her bouquet of roses. Her despicable cousin Robyn shows up with a sob story about having no place to go. She says she has left her husband and can’t possibly return to her home. She has lied to Maggie in the past, but, being tender hearted, Maggie can’t turn her away. This turns out to be a monumental mistake. This romance is not your typical one. Robyn is a villain that you don’t often see in a romance story. This tale is intriguing and quite entertaining. Readers will be rooting for Robyn to get all that is coming to her, and then some. Well written with well-developed characters, this second book in the series is even better than the first.
April 17, 2024
Maggie is a crafter who runs a business making “soft toys from recycled luxury wool” in her sewing room at Clifftop Cottage. Maggie has found out she's pregnant after struggling to carry to full term and is excited to share the news with her husband of 9 years, “Bear”. All is well in her world until her cousin Robyn sends a letter about coming to visit, and things start to get interesting.
Robyn’s arrival brings some much needed twists to the book and adds some excitement, but I'll be honest, I did find this book a bit boring. I found myself feeling like I was slogging through informational bits that tended to repeat, and nothing was really happening to move the story along. Overall, I think it just wasn't for me.
Robyn’s arrival brings some much needed twists to the book and adds some excitement, but I'll be honest, I did find this book a bit boring. I found myself feeling like I was slogging through informational bits that tended to repeat, and nothing was really happening to move the story along. Overall, I think it just wasn't for me.
April 30, 2024
This is book #2 of the Micklewick Bay series. Whilst it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone book. We do meet characters from the other books in the series, but in this book the storyline focusses on Maggie Marsay, a resident of the lovely seaside village of Micklewick Bay. Maggie lives with her husband Bear and runs a business from home making handmade teddy bears. Life is good for her and Bear, especially with the secret news of a baby on the way, until one day Maggie's cousin, Robyn turns up on her doorstep with nowhere else to go
I loved this story! Micklewick Bay is such a lovely location and the perfect setting for this series. I love Maggie's character, she so likeable and you can really relate to her and her situation. There is a wonderful array of characters, with all of Maggie's friends adding plenty of fun and laughter to the story. I have to admit I really didn't like Robyn and when I heard about what she had done to Maggie many years ago I disliked her all the more!! I felt so frustrated for Maggie with the situation with Robyn and would have quite happily been the one to tell her to sling her hook!
The story flowed along perfectly and I was very quickly caught into Maggie and Bear's storyline. The location, characters and storyline made for the perfect piece of escapism and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit back to Micklewick Bay! Filled with lots of friends and family, this was a wonderfully heart-warming and light-hearted story which I would definitely recommend!
I loved this story! Micklewick Bay is such a lovely location and the perfect setting for this series. I love Maggie's character, she so likeable and you can really relate to her and her situation. There is a wonderful array of characters, with all of Maggie's friends adding plenty of fun and laughter to the story. I have to admit I really didn't like Robyn and when I heard about what she had done to Maggie many years ago I disliked her all the more!! I felt so frustrated for Maggie with the situation with Robyn and would have quite happily been the one to tell her to sling her hook!
The story flowed along perfectly and I was very quickly caught into Maggie and Bear's storyline. The location, characters and storyline made for the perfect piece of escapism and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit back to Micklewick Bay! Filled with lots of friends and family, this was a wonderfully heart-warming and light-hearted story which I would definitely recommend!
April 29, 2024
A wonderful story. Maggie is living her best life with her loving husband Bear, in the lovely cottage in Micklewick Bay. Her teddy bear business is thriving and all is well, until her bubble is shattered by the appearance of her cousin Robyn, who she hasn't seen or heard from in many years following a fall-out. What follows is 10 days of hell on earth for Maggie and her husband. Fortunately her friends and neighbours have got her back. This is about the love and support of true friends and, also, the impact toxic people have on our lives even if its only for a short while. A great, heartwarming story.
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2024
I was thrilled to catch up with the gang at Micklewick Bay and in this one Maggie is our main focus. Maggie has a cute little business of making bears and if I could sew it's something I could see myself doing. Maggie is also pregnant but has not told her partner Bear yet as they have been through a few miscarriages and this is understandably playing on Maggie's mind. When Maggie's cousin Robyn turns up she causes trouble and outstays her welcome. I loved that I got a glimpse of my favourite dog Gerty and I fell in love with another dog Daphne that belongs to Maggie and Bear. The story is quite long but I enjoyed reading every word as a contemporary romance blends with a mystery. A exciting series and definitely worth the read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews