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Comes in Waves
For some, first love is never forgotten—even when left behind. A story of queer love that never ends, new beginnings, and the town that steals two hearts from award-winning author Ana Hartnett.
Tanya Brees enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the small coastal tourist town of Coral Bay, skimboarding, racing ATVs through sandy trails, and getting into mischief with her small band of friends. Things are stick with the locals and hope the high-rises don’t take over their small fishing community.
When Tanya is thirteen, Juliette Peralta walks into the restaurant at the Coral Bay Inn with her parents and catches the eye of all the teens in town, especially Tanya. Every summer Juliette spends in Coral Bay brings them closer until first love blooms. But Juliette always leaves, her parents keep acquiring property to develop in town, and Tanya can’t take it anymore. No matter how much she loves Juliette, their family values are too different, and they lose touch as adults. That is, until a hurricane forces Juliette to return to Coral Bay indefinitely.
What’s worse than still being attracted to your first crush? Realizing the storm that tore you apart has gotten a lot more complicated.
Tanya Brees enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the small coastal tourist town of Coral Bay, skimboarding, racing ATVs through sandy trails, and getting into mischief with her small band of friends. Things are stick with the locals and hope the high-rises don’t take over their small fishing community.
When Tanya is thirteen, Juliette Peralta walks into the restaurant at the Coral Bay Inn with her parents and catches the eye of all the teens in town, especially Tanya. Every summer Juliette spends in Coral Bay brings them closer until first love blooms. But Juliette always leaves, her parents keep acquiring property to develop in town, and Tanya can’t take it anymore. No matter how much she loves Juliette, their family values are too different, and they lose touch as adults. That is, until a hurricane forces Juliette to return to Coral Bay indefinitely.
What’s worse than still being attracted to your first crush? Realizing the storm that tore you apart has gotten a lot more complicated.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 30, 2024
I loved this story! It's got everything I want in a book, and I really liked the two main characters.
As teenagers, they forged a bond that transcended the societal divides that would later seem so stark. At first, they weren't aware of why they were attracted to each other; they were too young. That's why their initial actions were so sweet and innocent. "As they grew older, the realities of society forced them apart, despite their belief that they could overcome family expectations and achieve their dreams. But it wasn't to be. They drifted apart irrevocably.
Fate would bring them together again, years later, as mature women with defined sexualities and a clear understanding of their feelings for each other. But one woman's self-serving interests clashed with the other's desire to preserve the peaceful, rural atmosphere of her coastal hometown.
I appreciated how both characters, especially Breezy, showed remarkable growth. Breezy's ability to forgive Juliette, even after everything she's been through, is truly admirable. And while Juliette's choices were understandable given her circumstances, a more honest conversation would have been beneficial.
I highly recommend this book. I couldn't put it down.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
As teenagers, they forged a bond that transcended the societal divides that would later seem so stark. At first, they weren't aware of why they were attracted to each other; they were too young. That's why their initial actions were so sweet and innocent. "As they grew older, the realities of society forced them apart, despite their belief that they could overcome family expectations and achieve their dreams. But it wasn't to be. They drifted apart irrevocably.
Fate would bring them together again, years later, as mature women with defined sexualities and a clear understanding of their feelings for each other. But one woman's self-serving interests clashed with the other's desire to preserve the peaceful, rural atmosphere of her coastal hometown.
I appreciated how both characters, especially Breezy, showed remarkable growth. Breezy's ability to forgive Juliette, even after everything she's been through, is truly admirable. And while Juliette's choices were understandable given her circumstances, a more honest conversation would have been beneficial.
I highly recommend this book. I couldn't put it down.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
August 8, 2024
I thought this was fine romance for the most part. Because of the way it’s written we miss a lot of the actual romance. So it lacks depth on that front for me.
Otherwise, it was fine and I was enjoying it for what it was.
The reason for the low rating is because Breezy’s best friend, Oscar, and her love interest, Jules, intentionally get her to sign a contract under false pretenses. This deception is excused because she “never would’ve agreed otherwise” and is basically laughed off and ignored for the rest of the book. And it was even worse with how easily she did agree once they explained things. I just couldn’t get past that and stopped rooting for the romance after that.
Otherwise, it was fine and I was enjoying it for what it was.
The reason for the low rating is because Breezy’s best friend, Oscar, and her love interest, Jules, intentionally get her to sign a contract under false pretenses. This deception is excused because she “never would’ve agreed otherwise” and is basically laughed off and ignored for the rest of the book. And it was even worse with how easily she did agree once they explained things. I just couldn’t get past that and stopped rooting for the romance after that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2024
After a promising beginning, things took a weird turn. I was puzzled by Jules's abrupt departure, and then suddenly sixteen years had flown by. And just like that, they were back together!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2024
I was really excited about this: BFFs-to-lovers and second-chance romances are two of my favorite tropes. And I’ve liked every Ana Hartnett book I’ve read to date. But I was really disappointed in this.
I have two major issues with this story:
1. The narrative is shallow. I felt like I was reading the outline of a story rather than a fully fleshed out novel. There’s no depth here. Things happen way too quickly. Resolution happens way too easily. Tension is forecasted in very obvious ways but Hartnett doesn’t really let us sit with the tension. All of this made it kind of boring, if I’m honest.
2. Oscar and Juliette are trash. Especially Oscar. But we’re supposed to like these characters? Breezy is rightfully upset with both characters. I was indignant with her. Until she just lets them off the hook? Over and over again?
Read any other Ana Hartnett book. Skip this one.
One last thing: I feel the need to point out that this is another BSB book that ends at exactly 230 pages. I’m not sure what is is about that particular page-count threshold for BSB books, but I can’t help but think it’s stifling their authors. Hartnett is better than this.
I have two major issues with this story:
1. The narrative is shallow. I felt like I was reading the outline of a story rather than a fully fleshed out novel. There’s no depth here. Things happen way too quickly. Resolution happens way too easily. Tension is forecasted in very obvious ways but Hartnett doesn’t really let us sit with the tension. All of this made it kind of boring, if I’m honest.
2. Oscar and Juliette are trash. Especially Oscar. But we’re supposed to like these characters? Breezy is rightfully upset with both characters. I was indignant with her. Until she just lets them off the hook? Over and over again?
Read any other Ana Hartnett book. Skip this one.
One last thing: I feel the need to point out that this is another BSB book that ends at exactly 230 pages. I’m not sure what is is about that particular page-count threshold for BSB books, but I can’t help but think it’s stifling their authors. Hartnett is better than this.
June 11, 2024
‘Comes in Waves’ in the latest novel of Ana Hartnett and the perfect summer, sapphic read.
I have been a fan since the beginning of her YA/ new adult ‘Alder’ series and this book is the perfect balance of her steady move into adult romance as it is a second chance love story. She manages to weave between the hazy days of first love to the tainted beauty of adulthood.
‘Waves’ begins with Tanya Brees, Breezy to her friends, who lives and breathes the ocean. She is born and raised in the town of Coral Bay and is quite content until she meets out of towner, Juliette Peralta.
Shared letters and endless summers pass and feelings change and blossom. Tears are washed away in salt water and the sun rises and sets on Coral Bay. Breezy stays where she thrives and thinks that she will never see Juliette again, until a hurricane brings everything back to the shore.
‘Waves’ is such a gem in Hartnett’s catalogue of works and for me there is just a natural ease and joy that comes in the way she writes. It feels effortless to fall into her words and be pulled towards her characters. But Hartnett has developed confidence in how she writes with emotion and brings in the setting as an additional character in its own right. I feel like she began to do this in ‘Chasing Cypress’ but you can see how far she has come in her own style as a brilliant romance writer. Although for me, the ending felt a tiny bit rushed. I think I just wanted more of Juliette and Breezy’s sparks.
I loved the chemistry between Breezy and Juliette, it is sweet and tender when they are young and it is fiery and damaged and hot as adults. Hartnett has an ability to really write characters who feel real- they are fractured and flawed but there is always hope and family at the core of who they are. ‘Waves’ is a gorgeous summer read but it is always a novel that goes beyond a season: It is a book we can all find ourselves within the pages because with every first love comes every first heartbreak.
I cannot wait for everyone to read this simmering second chance romance!
Disclaimer: I read this novel as an impartial ARC reader, although I am in a relationship with the writer this is an honest review.
I have been a fan since the beginning of her YA/ new adult ‘Alder’ series and this book is the perfect balance of her steady move into adult romance as it is a second chance love story. She manages to weave between the hazy days of first love to the tainted beauty of adulthood.
‘Waves’ begins with Tanya Brees, Breezy to her friends, who lives and breathes the ocean. She is born and raised in the town of Coral Bay and is quite content until she meets out of towner, Juliette Peralta.
Shared letters and endless summers pass and feelings change and blossom. Tears are washed away in salt water and the sun rises and sets on Coral Bay. Breezy stays where she thrives and thinks that she will never see Juliette again, until a hurricane brings everything back to the shore.
‘Waves’ is such a gem in Hartnett’s catalogue of works and for me there is just a natural ease and joy that comes in the way she writes. It feels effortless to fall into her words and be pulled towards her characters. But Hartnett has developed confidence in how she writes with emotion and brings in the setting as an additional character in its own right. I feel like she began to do this in ‘Chasing Cypress’ but you can see how far she has come in her own style as a brilliant romance writer. Although for me, the ending felt a tiny bit rushed. I think I just wanted more of Juliette and Breezy’s sparks.
I loved the chemistry between Breezy and Juliette, it is sweet and tender when they are young and it is fiery and damaged and hot as adults. Hartnett has an ability to really write characters who feel real- they are fractured and flawed but there is always hope and family at the core of who they are. ‘Waves’ is a gorgeous summer read but it is always a novel that goes beyond a season: It is a book we can all find ourselves within the pages because with every first love comes every first heartbreak.
I cannot wait for everyone to read this simmering second chance romance!
Disclaimer: I read this novel as an impartial ARC reader, although I am in a relationship with the writer this is an honest review.
August 29, 2024
Second chance novels that start in the teenage/childhood years are even better than regular ones. The first part of the book really builds the foundation of Breezy/Tanya and Jules's relationship. I really like that because in most second chance novels, the first relationship happens behind the scenes. We could really understand how strong the bond was and how deep the pain was as a consequence.
Hartnett's writing is really immersive: I really felt like I was in a summer vacation bubble. We get to follow the MCs on a handful of days during different summers of their teenage years. As a result, you really see them grow and the relationship evolve. The characters really act and talk like teenagers. I loved the first part. The second part was the second chance part.The initial tension when they meet again is delightful. The book is written in Breezy's POV, so I carried with her the anger and the hurt. I don't know how much time passes, but the grudge and tension part were a bit short for my taste. I wanted to suffer more and make Juliette suffer more. (Yes, I am cruel, but the timeline wasn't clear to me.) The same goes for the third act breakup. Even if Breezy was too stubborn about her vision for the town and had to open her eyes to some things, this woman is a saint for being so forgiving!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It has good secondary characters and a good pace.
Hartnett's writing is really immersive: I really felt like I was in a summer vacation bubble. We get to follow the MCs on a handful of days during different summers of their teenage years. As a result, you really see them grow and the relationship evolve. The characters really act and talk like teenagers. I loved the first part. The second part was the second chance part.The initial tension when they meet again is delightful. The book is written in Breezy's POV, so I carried with her the anger and the hurt. I don't know how much time passes, but the grudge and tension part were a bit short for my taste. I wanted to suffer more and make Juliette suffer more. (Yes, I am cruel, but the timeline wasn't clear to me.) The same goes for the third act breakup. Even if Breezy was too stubborn about her vision for the town and had to open her eyes to some things, this woman is a saint for being so forgiving!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It has good secondary characters and a good pace.
September 29, 2024
Comes in Waves is a fast-paced romance set in a picturesque beach town that I found utterly charming. While I enjoyed the quick and easy read, it felt almost too rushed at times. The instant connection between Breezy and Jules seemed like love at first sight, but I wished for more development in their relationships with each other and their friends.
The side characters, like Marge, Aunt Pat, and Uncle Trevor, added depth to the story, but Breezy's subplot regarding her mother felt excessive and didn’t contribute much to the narrative. Breezy’s humourous nature sometimes clashed with her childish reactions, making it hard to reconcile her age with her behavior.
Overall, I enjoyed the first third of the book, but the pacing faltered in the later sections, leading to a rushed resolution of conflicts. The spice added a layer of excitement, though I felt some moments were resolved too quickly, leaving me wanting more depth. A longer format might have allowed for a richer exploration of Breezy and her friends' coming-of-age experiences.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
The side characters, like Marge, Aunt Pat, and Uncle Trevor, added depth to the story, but Breezy's subplot regarding her mother felt excessive and didn’t contribute much to the narrative. Breezy’s humourous nature sometimes clashed with her childish reactions, making it hard to reconcile her age with her behavior.
Overall, I enjoyed the first third of the book, but the pacing faltered in the later sections, leading to a rushed resolution of conflicts. The spice added a layer of excitement, though I felt some moments were resolved too quickly, leaving me wanting more depth. A longer format might have allowed for a richer exploration of Breezy and her friends' coming-of-age experiences.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2025
Really good story that kept me engaged. Loved the back characters, though the blurb on the book almost told the whole story! The love of reading is in the detail.
July 22, 2024
It comes in waves is a second chance, friends to lovers sapphic romance that starts when the main characters Breezy (Tanya) and Juliette are 13 years old. Breezy is a townie she has lived in Coral Bay her whole life and Juliette is a tourist her and her parents visit Coral Bay on vacation during the summer. When the two first meet there is an immediate connection between them and they become friends. Every summer they are together brings them closer and closer together until their feelings for each other start to change into something more. But Juliette is under a lot of pressure from her parents and she leaves Coral Bay suddenly and they lose contact. This story takes place over many years, the first half when they are teenagers and the second half is when they are adults and Juliette returns to Coral Bay. I really enjoyed this book the characters were likeable, the story was good and there’s a little bit of spice. It was a nice summer read. 😊
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC.
August 12, 2024
A charming beach town in dire need of some modernization is the backdrop of this addictive best friends to rivals to lovers tale. Dive in and ride the waves!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Tanya ‘Breezy’ Brees has lived in the quaint tourist town Coral Bay since birth and she never wants to leave. She has a three guys for best friends and they hang out like all kids do in a small town. Doing all sorts of odd jobs in the tourist industry while growing up, she meets Juliette Peralta for the first time at 13. Sitting at a table of the restaurant between her business minded parents, Juliette is stunning and Breezy is hooked immediately. Of course she agrees to becoming Juliette’s penpal for a schoolproject. Every summer Juliette and her parents come back to Coral Bay, the Peralta development business is slowly buying more property in town to turn into tourist businesses. Breezy hates seeing her beloved hometown change, but she knows it’s not Juliette’s fault.
Juliette. The girl that spikes all sorts of confusing feelings over the years. At 17, Juliette is on the brink of starting college and knows her life will change forever. Breezy is thrilled that Juliette admits that she is in love with Breezy. But after one night of sharing their love, Juliette leaves Coral Bay, never to return. Cut to sixteen years later. Breezy is the owner of the Inn and restaurant where she worked as a teen. A hurricane has damaged a lot of businesses in Coral Bay, including the Peralta’s hotel. That’s when Juliette strolls right back in to town. But she will not capture Breezy’s heart again. Nope, she will not.
It is hard not to love Breezy and Coral Bay from the very first page. She is fierce and soft all at once. Her instant connection to Juliette is thrilling. Her figuring out her feelings for a girl is not a big deal in the story and I love that. Being gay is not an issue, how refreshing! Breezy loves her town and she’ll do anything to stop the Peraltas from turning it into a commercial tourist town.
Breezy held onto her anger towards Juliette for sixteen years. When she rolls back into town Breezy is not about to forgive her at all. She is such a strong woman, protecting what she loves and of course her own heart. The quarreling between the two women is witty and hilarious, but Breezy can’t deny the magnetic pull that is Juliette for long. Especially when Juliette explains why she left that last time.
It is very hard not to want them to get together at last. And it wouldn’t be a sapphic romance if there wasn’t an HEA. The way Hartnett gets to it is very enticing and it is extremely hard to put down this book once you’ve started. I’ve read most of Hartnett’s other books and let me just say, her work gets better and better. It would be a shame if you didn’t give this one a try!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Tanya ‘Breezy’ Brees has lived in the quaint tourist town Coral Bay since birth and she never wants to leave. She has a three guys for best friends and they hang out like all kids do in a small town. Doing all sorts of odd jobs in the tourist industry while growing up, she meets Juliette Peralta for the first time at 13. Sitting at a table of the restaurant between her business minded parents, Juliette is stunning and Breezy is hooked immediately. Of course she agrees to becoming Juliette’s penpal for a schoolproject. Every summer Juliette and her parents come back to Coral Bay, the Peralta development business is slowly buying more property in town to turn into tourist businesses. Breezy hates seeing her beloved hometown change, but she knows it’s not Juliette’s fault.
Juliette. The girl that spikes all sorts of confusing feelings over the years. At 17, Juliette is on the brink of starting college and knows her life will change forever. Breezy is thrilled that Juliette admits that she is in love with Breezy. But after one night of sharing their love, Juliette leaves Coral Bay, never to return. Cut to sixteen years later. Breezy is the owner of the Inn and restaurant where she worked as a teen. A hurricane has damaged a lot of businesses in Coral Bay, including the Peralta’s hotel. That’s when Juliette strolls right back in to town. But she will not capture Breezy’s heart again. Nope, she will not.
It is hard not to love Breezy and Coral Bay from the very first page. She is fierce and soft all at once. Her instant connection to Juliette is thrilling. Her figuring out her feelings for a girl is not a big deal in the story and I love that. Being gay is not an issue, how refreshing! Breezy loves her town and she’ll do anything to stop the Peraltas from turning it into a commercial tourist town.
Breezy held onto her anger towards Juliette for sixteen years. When she rolls back into town Breezy is not about to forgive her at all. She is such a strong woman, protecting what she loves and of course her own heart. The quarreling between the two women is witty and hilarious, but Breezy can’t deny the magnetic pull that is Juliette for long. Especially when Juliette explains why she left that last time.
It is very hard not to want them to get together at last. And it wouldn’t be a sapphic romance if there wasn’t an HEA. The way Hartnett gets to it is very enticing and it is extremely hard to put down this book once you’ve started. I’ve read most of Hartnett’s other books and let me just say, her work gets better and better. It would be a shame if you didn’t give this one a try!
August 13, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review
Breezy aka Tanya and Juliette meet when they were teens and form an instant connection and every summer when Juliette visit with her family that connection is still strong but it’s becomes more but Juliette have obligations that her parents have set and leaves Coral Bay. Years later Tanya runs a restaurant she inherited that she work at as teen and Juliette is returning to run her parents hotels that been developed in town as they get thrown together thoses feelings they had return or never really gone in the first place. It was cute read a second chance at a love that never got to start.
Breezy aka Tanya and Juliette meet when they were teens and form an instant connection and every summer when Juliette visit with her family that connection is still strong but it’s becomes more but Juliette have obligations that her parents have set and leaves Coral Bay. Years later Tanya runs a restaurant she inherited that she work at as teen and Juliette is returning to run her parents hotels that been developed in town as they get thrown together thoses feelings they had return or never really gone in the first place. It was cute read a second chance at a love that never got to start.
July 16, 2024
This was for sure a binge read. I loved the 2nd chance romance between the townie Breezy (Tanya) and the tourist Jules (Juliette). Really interesting to get the vibes from a southern coastal town and a great love story throughout the years of their interactions. The book is fantastic and I so enjoyed reading it.
I was lucky to receive a free ARC via NetGalley.
I was lucky to receive a free ARC via NetGalley.
August 24, 2024
First of all, very thankful to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Short summary of the plot:
Comes in Waves presents us the story of two girls from very different worlds over the span of about 20 years. We meet Breezy, local of Coral Bay, who is working at the town's restaurant when she meets Juliette and her parent, a rich family from Atlanta. Although these type of rich turists spend money in town, which helps better locals living wages, they can also be a great danger of creating wishes to monopolize this beautiful coastal town. However, this does not stop Breezy from absolutely falling for Juliette from the first moment. They start being pen pals, spend time together when Juliette comes during summer, and then... they have something else. And Juliette completely disappears for many years. The reason why this happens and if these two girls end up being together or even keeping a friendship after all these years and betrayals is for you to find out.
Review:
This book surprised me in the best way it could have done. I did not know a thing about the author, the writing style or anything, and I still loved every bit. The writing is very light, very easy to follow and pages and pages go by without you even being aware of reading so much. There were some plot choices which I did not completely agree with, mostly in two cases when I thought they were there only for the sake of creating a conflict. However, one action happens when they are teenagers, and we all know how many bad decisions we've made at that age; and the other was just the very long skip in time we encounter in the middle of the book almost. Sixteen years sound like way too many, even though Juliette needed to go to uni and take more active part in the family's business. Ten or even less were more than enough, in two years she finishes high school, in other four years you've finished business school, and you do not need other ten for... nothing really? I don't know this was my biggest pet peeve in this book, I really do feel like sixteen years was an excessive number to use.
Talking about the characters, I love how the bond between all of the townie's is very beatifully portrayed. Breezy's and Oscar's friendship is so well constructed, MILD SPOILERS!!! they've tried dating because they match perfectly together... just not in that way; and that dailed dating stage did not try their friendship not even a bit because they kept being present and understanding each other the best. It is very noticeable, very cute and very well build. Not only with Oscar but also with Breezy and her aunt and uncle, and Austin and Benny.
I feel lilke Juliette could have been so much more developed as a character, she is not flat at all because we get to know her and her struggles, how she feels about certain topics and how much it affects her mentally. But it is something she says, not something we see in her. This is mainly because we only have Breezy's point of view, and we meet Juliette through her eyes, so whenever they aren't spending time together, we get the reported version of the matters in their conversations.
However, Breezy is represented as such a relatable character, mostly now that we are at the peak of tourism and the loss and destruction of many gorgeous towns is happening everyday. Locals being relocated because their homes are being turned into tourist apartments, nature and wildlife ruined because hotels need to be constructed... That is Breezy's biggest fear and it shows. And it is so. fucking. real. Her fear is shown in every decision she has to make, she is a momma bear to Coral Bay and she may have gone into the overprotective zone; something which ends up being understandable as you suffer alongside her through the book.
Overall, I would completely recommend this book as a summer read, it is a perfect book to read while being at the beach while reflecting on topics like discovering your own queerness, tourism destroying towns and the foundation friendships need to still be going strong after a lifetime. It also contains some sexual scenes, so take that into account too, just in case you would want to gift it to minors. Very great read, I am excited of finding out more works from this author.
Short summary of the plot:
Comes in Waves presents us the story of two girls from very different worlds over the span of about 20 years. We meet Breezy, local of Coral Bay, who is working at the town's restaurant when she meets Juliette and her parent, a rich family from Atlanta. Although these type of rich turists spend money in town, which helps better locals living wages, they can also be a great danger of creating wishes to monopolize this beautiful coastal town. However, this does not stop Breezy from absolutely falling for Juliette from the first moment. They start being pen pals, spend time together when Juliette comes during summer, and then... they have something else. And Juliette completely disappears for many years. The reason why this happens and if these two girls end up being together or even keeping a friendship after all these years and betrayals is for you to find out.
Review:
This book surprised me in the best way it could have done. I did not know a thing about the author, the writing style or anything, and I still loved every bit. The writing is very light, very easy to follow and pages and pages go by without you even being aware of reading so much. There were some plot choices which I did not completely agree with, mostly in two cases when I thought they were there only for the sake of creating a conflict. However, one action happens when they are teenagers, and we all know how many bad decisions we've made at that age; and the other was just the very long skip in time we encounter in the middle of the book almost. Sixteen years sound like way too many, even though Juliette needed to go to uni and take more active part in the family's business. Ten or even less were more than enough, in two years she finishes high school, in other four years you've finished business school, and you do not need other ten for... nothing really? I don't know this was my biggest pet peeve in this book, I really do feel like sixteen years was an excessive number to use.
Talking about the characters, I love how the bond between all of the townie's is very beatifully portrayed. Breezy's and Oscar's friendship is so well constructed, MILD SPOILERS!!! they've tried dating because they match perfectly together... just not in that way; and that dailed dating stage did not try their friendship not even a bit because they kept being present and understanding each other the best. It is very noticeable, very cute and very well build. Not only with Oscar but also with Breezy and her aunt and uncle, and Austin and Benny.
I feel lilke Juliette could have been so much more developed as a character, she is not flat at all because we get to know her and her struggles, how she feels about certain topics and how much it affects her mentally. But it is something she says, not something we see in her. This is mainly because we only have Breezy's point of view, and we meet Juliette through her eyes, so whenever they aren't spending time together, we get the reported version of the matters in their conversations.
However, Breezy is represented as such a relatable character, mostly now that we are at the peak of tourism and the loss and destruction of many gorgeous towns is happening everyday. Locals being relocated because their homes are being turned into tourist apartments, nature and wildlife ruined because hotels need to be constructed... That is Breezy's biggest fear and it shows. And it is so. fucking. real. Her fear is shown in every decision she has to make, she is a momma bear to Coral Bay and she may have gone into the overprotective zone; something which ends up being understandable as you suffer alongside her through the book.
Overall, I would completely recommend this book as a summer read, it is a perfect book to read while being at the beach while reflecting on topics like discovering your own queerness, tourism destroying towns and the foundation friendships need to still be going strong after a lifetime. It also contains some sexual scenes, so take that into account too, just in case you would want to gift it to minors. Very great read, I am excited of finding out more works from this author.
July 20, 2024
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Oh my god, I love this book. This is by far my favorite sapphic romance I’ve read so far. This book is the kind that you stay up all night devouring because you can’t put it down.
This is a second chance at love, friends to lovers story that starts with Breezy and Juliette as teenagers. One a townie of a small beach town and one a tourist who are drawn to each other immediately. They have to navigate the ups and downs of a friendship from a distance and of Juliette’s expectations and control from her rich real estate mogul parents who have started to buy up pieces of property in the small town moving it toward commercialization. Years later, Juliette returns to the town and finds this quiet town and all the people she loved is still everything she loved it for, the only problem is that Breezy is still recovering from the heartbreak years earlier.
This book has so much special about it. From the author paints a picture so easy to imagine, to the special friendships found in it, to the way you fall in love with this little town and root for it, and most importantly the way that you fall for Juliette and Breezy’s relationship, get your heart broken and then it gets mended back together. It really isn’t often that I find a book I can stay up all night devouring, but this is definitely it. 5 stars.
Oh my god, I love this book. This is by far my favorite sapphic romance I’ve read so far. This book is the kind that you stay up all night devouring because you can’t put it down.
This is a second chance at love, friends to lovers story that starts with Breezy and Juliette as teenagers. One a townie of a small beach town and one a tourist who are drawn to each other immediately. They have to navigate the ups and downs of a friendship from a distance and of Juliette’s expectations and control from her rich real estate mogul parents who have started to buy up pieces of property in the small town moving it toward commercialization. Years later, Juliette returns to the town and finds this quiet town and all the people she loved is still everything she loved it for, the only problem is that Breezy is still recovering from the heartbreak years earlier.
This book has so much special about it. From the author paints a picture so easy to imagine, to the special friendships found in it, to the way you fall in love with this little town and root for it, and most importantly the way that you fall for Juliette and Breezy’s relationship, get your heart broken and then it gets mended back together. It really isn’t often that I find a book I can stay up all night devouring, but this is definitely it. 5 stars.
August 3, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
coral bay a small coastal town
a gentle way of life for teenagers to enjoy before work overtakes them.
tanya breeze never really had that luxury being abandoned by her mom but she was taken in by her aunt and uncle and had a good life... she worked part time in a bar
it was where she first met Juliette Peralta aka jules with her very rich parents.... they came every year after that always some business and when they were there jules joined in with tanya and her mates
but as they grew up life got in the way .....
16 years later jules is back but is it a good sign or not....or will jules betray them all again ....
wow what a read.... enjoyed every minute of it...cant wait for the next book by this author
coral bay a small coastal town
a gentle way of life for teenagers to enjoy before work overtakes them.
tanya breeze never really had that luxury being abandoned by her mom but she was taken in by her aunt and uncle and had a good life... she worked part time in a bar
it was where she first met Juliette Peralta aka jules with her very rich parents.... they came every year after that always some business and when they were there jules joined in with tanya and her mates
but as they grew up life got in the way .....
16 years later jules is back but is it a good sign or not....or will jules betray them all again ....
wow what a read.... enjoyed every minute of it...cant wait for the next book by this author
August 12, 2024
*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for review, all opinions are my own*
2.5 stars
I thought I would like this book more, but unfortunately that wasn't the case.
The romance didn't captivate me, and since it's a romance book...
I don't think the author managed to develop the romance in a way that made me root for the characters to get together. In fact, I only didn't give the story a lower score because I thought the author did a good job building the world and the conflicts around it. For me, she only failed in building the main characters and their romance, unfortunately.
2.5 stars
I thought I would like this book more, but unfortunately that wasn't the case.
The romance didn't captivate me, and since it's a romance book...
I don't think the author managed to develop the romance in a way that made me root for the characters to get together. In fact, I only didn't give the story a lower score because I thought the author did a good job building the world and the conflicts around it. For me, she only failed in building the main characters and their romance, unfortunately.
July 21, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was a very quick read for me (wasn’t THAT short though) that I tore through, and it went down easy. The emotions were on point and there were a lot of them, which is exactly what I was going for. Second-chance novels like this are always sweet; I love the whole process of setting up the pieces, tearing the whole thing down, and then pulling it back together from the wreckage. There were some great small-tourist-town vibes and values, clashing with arrogant rich land developer greed. This novel wasn’t perfect (few are), but it was very well done and thoroughly enjoyable. I would recommend to all!
I have to say, this novel really reminded me how much I can hate capitalism. It was a solid example of rich elitist people making the world a worse place in order to make themselves richer, all the while treating non-rich folks poorly. In some ways I disliked this element of the novel, but at the same time it worked really well. This paragraph is just a little ramble.
Highlights:
-This novel was emotional, and I felt it! Solid endorsement that doesn’t need a lot of elaboration. The characters had their highs, and lows, and this aspect of the novel was very well done.
-I like it when a romance takes place over such a long timeline. It gives the opportunity for the characters to develop a real and strong relationship with a lot of history behind it. This always makes for stronger emotions!
-The romance! They had great chemistry, and watching the relationship develop over the course of their lives was interesting and satisfying.
-The characters were excellent. They felt real, were well developed, and clearly distinct. The side characters in particular were great and added a lot to the novel.
Nitpicks:
-Ok! Where did the note from the prologue happen in the novel????? I spent the entire novel waiting for it to come back around, and it never did. OR, if it did, then it wasn’t very clear and I somehow missed it. This obviously isn't a big deal, but it really got to me for some reason.
-This novel was rushed in some places. Some of the time periods were relatively brief with only a scene or two, and I think it would have benefitted from spending more time on the characters when they were younger. In stories like this, time spent at the beginning usually pays off later on after the time jump!
-Also rushed: some of the conflicts in this novel go away much easier and quicker than I think they could have. The drama was satisfying, and I could have absolutely enjoyed more of it!
-I had issues following the time jumps throughout the novel, particularly the beginning. The novel kept jumping forward between chapters but never identified where it happened or told the reader how much time had elapsed (“two years later” isn’t really hard to write!). It always became clear enough that I was never actually lost, but it was jarring and temporarily confusing while waiting for the details to be revealed. I don’t think the ambiguity helped in any way.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say, this novel really reminded me how much I can hate capitalism. It was a solid example of rich elitist people making the world a worse place in order to make themselves richer, all the while treating non-rich folks poorly. In some ways I disliked this element of the novel, but at the same time it worked really well. This paragraph is just a little ramble.
Highlights:
-This novel was emotional, and I felt it! Solid endorsement that doesn’t need a lot of elaboration. The characters had their highs, and lows, and this aspect of the novel was very well done.
-I like it when a romance takes place over such a long timeline. It gives the opportunity for the characters to develop a real and strong relationship with a lot of history behind it. This always makes for stronger emotions!
-The romance! They had great chemistry, and watching the relationship develop over the course of their lives was interesting and satisfying.
-The characters were excellent. They felt real, were well developed, and clearly distinct. The side characters in particular were great and added a lot to the novel.
Nitpicks:
-Ok! Where did the note from the prologue happen in the novel????? I spent the entire novel waiting for it to come back around, and it never did. OR, if it did, then it wasn’t very clear and I somehow missed it. This obviously isn't a big deal, but it really got to me for some reason.
-This novel was rushed in some places. Some of the time periods were relatively brief with only a scene or two, and I think it would have benefitted from spending more time on the characters when they were younger. In stories like this, time spent at the beginning usually pays off later on after the time jump!
-Also rushed: some of the conflicts in this novel go away much easier and quicker than I think they could have. The drama was satisfying, and I could have absolutely enjoyed more of it!
-I had issues following the time jumps throughout the novel, particularly the beginning. The novel kept jumping forward between chapters but never identified where it happened or told the reader how much time had elapsed (“two years later” isn’t really hard to write!). It always became clear enough that I was never actually lost, but it was jarring and temporarily confusing while waiting for the details to be revealed. I don’t think the ambiguity helped in any way.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2024
Warning, Spoilers ahead!
This story captures the joy and difficulties associated with small towns and childhood love. Told from the point of view of Breezy as she recounts her experiences overcoming grief, betrayal, and her ultimate journey towards love and happiness. When Juliette Peralta visits Coral Bay with her family for the first time, she and Breezy immediately hit it off and agree to be pen pals. Juliette lives in Atlanta but her family comes to Coral Bay every year during the summer to check on their investment. Every time Juliette visits, Breezy’s feelings for her get stronger and stronger, until one summer they finally share a heated kiss and everything seems to shift. When Juliette is 17 she visits one last time before vowing never to return.
Breezy was such a great character because I could feel everything she was feeling in the moment, whether that was excitement, nervousness, betrayal, sadness, pure bliss, etc. She is in love with her town and the people who live in it so she is determined to keep things from changing. Unfortunately when Juliette arrives 10 years later with plans to add new infrastructure to the town, Breezy is left hurt and confused all over again. Unable to truly banish her feelings for Juliette they basically pick up right where they left off as kids. Even though I think Breezy was a bit passive at times, especially when it came to Juliette, her passion and perseverance made up for it in the end. Breezy’s relationship with her Aunt and Uncle was so precious, and even her friendship with “the buys” was fun and cute. I loved the whole group dynamic actually, they all seemed to compliment each other in a special found family kind of way.
As for Juliette, I felt very hot and cold for her. One minute I loved her and adored her banter and loving nature towards Breezy, and the next I hated her because she totally broke Breezy’s heart multiple times. Once you learned her full story and had a better reasoning as to why she did the things that she did, you start to develop more of an understanding of her character and complexity. Her chemistry and relationship with Breezy was hot and emotional and had a good amount of spice. Even with all the back and forth, I couldn’t help but root for them in the end. All the characters to me were well written and distinguished and developed enough that you remember them, which I think many novels these days have trouble accomplishing.
Something also refreshing that I appreciated was that the story took place over a long period of time rather than the typical year or two and trying to believe a romance that happens within a month. I thought the book was well balanced between childhood and adulthood and helped me understand the characters better. The only problem was that the amount of time elapsed was not indicated at the start of the chapters so several times I had to guess how old the characters were or how many years had gone by. This also made for some chapters to feel incredibly rushed as opposed to others, especially the ending.
As opposed to other novels, I felt the conflict was well done and purposeful that it felt real. It wasn’t just something that could be solved with a conversation, there actually needed to be work done and compromises to be made. I know this is a very real issue for small towns, especially beach communities, with big businesses and corporations taking over, so I appreciated that the author portrayed it from both perspectives. Yes there was some conflict/conversation avoidance covered up by rushed intimacy, but I think overall the characters did a good job of working through it.
Ultimately I really enjoyed the fun yet emotional storyline and characters, small town summer vibes, the aspect of friendship and found family, and felt the chemistry and romance between Breezy and Juliette to be well developed and believable.
Funny side note: based on the title, I just knew the author was going to reference one of the characters “coming” like waves lol.
This story captures the joy and difficulties associated with small towns and childhood love. Told from the point of view of Breezy as she recounts her experiences overcoming grief, betrayal, and her ultimate journey towards love and happiness. When Juliette Peralta visits Coral Bay with her family for the first time, she and Breezy immediately hit it off and agree to be pen pals. Juliette lives in Atlanta but her family comes to Coral Bay every year during the summer to check on their investment. Every time Juliette visits, Breezy’s feelings for her get stronger and stronger, until one summer they finally share a heated kiss and everything seems to shift. When Juliette is 17 she visits one last time before vowing never to return.
Breezy was such a great character because I could feel everything she was feeling in the moment, whether that was excitement, nervousness, betrayal, sadness, pure bliss, etc. She is in love with her town and the people who live in it so she is determined to keep things from changing. Unfortunately when Juliette arrives 10 years later with plans to add new infrastructure to the town, Breezy is left hurt and confused all over again. Unable to truly banish her feelings for Juliette they basically pick up right where they left off as kids. Even though I think Breezy was a bit passive at times, especially when it came to Juliette, her passion and perseverance made up for it in the end. Breezy’s relationship with her Aunt and Uncle was so precious, and even her friendship with “the buys” was fun and cute. I loved the whole group dynamic actually, they all seemed to compliment each other in a special found family kind of way.
As for Juliette, I felt very hot and cold for her. One minute I loved her and adored her banter and loving nature towards Breezy, and the next I hated her because she totally broke Breezy’s heart multiple times. Once you learned her full story and had a better reasoning as to why she did the things that she did, you start to develop more of an understanding of her character and complexity. Her chemistry and relationship with Breezy was hot and emotional and had a good amount of spice. Even with all the back and forth, I couldn’t help but root for them in the end. All the characters to me were well written and distinguished and developed enough that you remember them, which I think many novels these days have trouble accomplishing.
Something also refreshing that I appreciated was that the story took place over a long period of time rather than the typical year or two and trying to believe a romance that happens within a month. I thought the book was well balanced between childhood and adulthood and helped me understand the characters better. The only problem was that the amount of time elapsed was not indicated at the start of the chapters so several times I had to guess how old the characters were or how many years had gone by. This also made for some chapters to feel incredibly rushed as opposed to others, especially the ending.
As opposed to other novels, I felt the conflict was well done and purposeful that it felt real. It wasn’t just something that could be solved with a conversation, there actually needed to be work done and compromises to be made. I know this is a very real issue for small towns, especially beach communities, with big businesses and corporations taking over, so I appreciated that the author portrayed it from both perspectives. Yes there was some conflict/conversation avoidance covered up by rushed intimacy, but I think overall the characters did a good job of working through it.
Ultimately I really enjoyed the fun yet emotional storyline and characters, small town summer vibes, the aspect of friendship and found family, and felt the chemistry and romance between Breezy and Juliette to be well developed and believable.
Funny side note: based on the title, I just knew the author was going to reference one of the characters “coming” like waves lol.
August 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This was a very fast paced romance! It was set in a beach town, so I loved the atmosphere. I could relate to Breezy and loving the ocean as much as she did. I wouldn’t want to leave either if I lived there!
I love reading about women in their 30s. It is always refreshing to see characters around that age as I get older.
I liked that it was a quick and easy read, but it was almost a little too quick. Things happened so fast. Jules met Breezy and it was basically love at first sight. We were told that the two of them got really close and became close with Benny, Austin and Oscar, but we didn’t really see that happen. I would have liked to see the relationships develop, then just telling us they were super close.
I liked the side characters like Marge, Aunt Pat and Uncle Trevor. I thought the side plot with Breezy’s mom wasn’t needed. It could have been mentioned she wasn’t in her life once so we knew why she lived with her aunt and uncle, but it was repeated a lot with no real payoff. Maybe it helped to explain why Breezy was the way she was, but I still feel like it could have been left out.
Breezy was funny, but she did act kind of childish even when she was 33 years old. Which is fine, I’m not saying she had to be a stick in the mud just because she was in her 30s, but sometimes how she reacted to the things that was happening to her seemed like she was still 17.
The relationship was a bit cheesy, but I liked them together so it was cute.
This had quite a bit of spice, so if you’re looking for that in a novel, it definitely has it! It was a little much for my personal taste, but I didn’t think it was badly written.
She forgave Jules a little too quickly in my opinion, which goes back to this book was too fast paced. When there was conflict it happened super abruptly, but it also was resolved pretty quickly. I like short books, but I wouldn’t have minded if this was longer to get a more fleshed out plot.
The beginning of this book really reminded me of the songs “No Time To Die” and “Wildflower” by Billie Eilish so I listened to those a lot while reading!
Overall, this was cute. I could have used more, but it is a really quick summer read. So, if you’re looking for something with light angst, a beachy setting and a fluffy romance, this would be the book for you!
This was a very fast paced romance! It was set in a beach town, so I loved the atmosphere. I could relate to Breezy and loving the ocean as much as she did. I wouldn’t want to leave either if I lived there!
I love reading about women in their 30s. It is always refreshing to see characters around that age as I get older.
I liked that it was a quick and easy read, but it was almost a little too quick. Things happened so fast. Jules met Breezy and it was basically love at first sight. We were told that the two of them got really close and became close with Benny, Austin and Oscar, but we didn’t really see that happen. I would have liked to see the relationships develop, then just telling us they were super close.
I liked the side characters like Marge, Aunt Pat and Uncle Trevor. I thought the side plot with Breezy’s mom wasn’t needed. It could have been mentioned she wasn’t in her life once so we knew why she lived with her aunt and uncle, but it was repeated a lot with no real payoff. Maybe it helped to explain why Breezy was the way she was, but I still feel like it could have been left out.
Breezy was funny, but she did act kind of childish even when she was 33 years old. Which is fine, I’m not saying she had to be a stick in the mud just because she was in her 30s, but sometimes how she reacted to the things that was happening to her seemed like she was still 17.
The relationship was a bit cheesy, but I liked them together so it was cute.
This had quite a bit of spice, so if you’re looking for that in a novel, it definitely has it! It was a little much for my personal taste, but I didn’t think it was badly written.
She forgave Jules a little too quickly in my opinion, which goes back to this book was too fast paced. When there was conflict it happened super abruptly, but it also was resolved pretty quickly. I like short books, but I wouldn’t have minded if this was longer to get a more fleshed out plot.
The beginning of this book really reminded me of the songs “No Time To Die” and “Wildflower” by Billie Eilish so I listened to those a lot while reading!
Overall, this was cute. I could have used more, but it is a really quick summer read. So, if you’re looking for something with light angst, a beachy setting and a fluffy romance, this would be the book for you!
August 15, 2024
In life, change is inevitable. But when do we know when to fight it, and when to let the tide take us where it may lead? In Comes in Waves, a novel by Ana Hartnett, we get to explore this question as it pertains to family, love, and home. Thank you to Ana and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC copy of this compelling novel.
Tanya Brees - “Breezy” to her friends - has lived her whole life in Coral Bay, a coastal tourist town that she loves about as much as her aunt and uncle who have raised her there. When Juliette Peralta and her lock eyes, though, she can’t help but want to get to know the non-townie in a way she’s still trying to understand. Through years of exchanged letters and brief visits they become closer until they’re torn apart by life. Over ten years later they reconnect, but Tanya doesn’t know how to let go of the pain - especially when their reunion is marred with the knowledge that Juliette will change Coral Bay forever.
Telling its story over two decades, I loved watching the characters both grow and stay stagnant in ways indicative of reality. The supporting cast of friends and family brought a lot of depth to Comes in Waves, and I loved seeing Tanya constantly of two minds about herself, struggling with whether to hold grudges or let herself be swept up in Juliette once again.
At times I found character choices frustrating, though I can’t say they’re far from a realistic set of decisions. I can see people making those same choices, and always appreciate an honest novel. I will say that I feel Juliette’s major life decision towards the end was a bit hard for me to believe, but I’m glad she did it all the same.
If you’re looking for a fun summer read that will take you on a journey, Comes in Waves is a fantastic choice. Thank you again to Ana and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC, and make sure to pick up a copy!
Tanya Brees - “Breezy” to her friends - has lived her whole life in Coral Bay, a coastal tourist town that she loves about as much as her aunt and uncle who have raised her there. When Juliette Peralta and her lock eyes, though, she can’t help but want to get to know the non-townie in a way she’s still trying to understand. Through years of exchanged letters and brief visits they become closer until they’re torn apart by life. Over ten years later they reconnect, but Tanya doesn’t know how to let go of the pain - especially when their reunion is marred with the knowledge that Juliette will change Coral Bay forever.
Telling its story over two decades, I loved watching the characters both grow and stay stagnant in ways indicative of reality. The supporting cast of friends and family brought a lot of depth to Comes in Waves, and I loved seeing Tanya constantly of two minds about herself, struggling with whether to hold grudges or let herself be swept up in Juliette once again.
At times I found character choices frustrating, though I can’t say they’re far from a realistic set of decisions. I can see people making those same choices, and always appreciate an honest novel. I will say that I feel Juliette’s major life decision towards the end was a bit hard for me to believe, but I’m glad she did it all the same.
If you’re looking for a fun summer read that will take you on a journey, Comes in Waves is a fantastic choice. Thank you again to Ana and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC, and make sure to pick up a copy!
August 3, 2024
A love story of the townie and the tourist. Tanya Brees is a townie in the small coastal town of Coral Bay, Florida. She is only 13 when she first meets Juliette Peralta. Jules suggests they become pen pals and then they catch up every summer. Jules' family are wealthy real estate developers who live in Atlanta. Told from Brees POV, the first half covers their meeting and time together until they are seniors in high school. The second half contains a time jump of fifteen years when Jules returns to Coral Bay to oversee development of her family's latest building.
Harnett is great at getting to the emotions of the characters. Brees is connected to her town as they are her family. Jules represents change. But the pair are always drawn together. Side characters add some depth but the women are the stars. There are some time jumps that I wished were more explicit. The big one is evident but others of weeks, months or years were unclear. I felt a few things were left out like did Brees ever attend college so she could better run her business? Did she have past relationships or only Jules. They never talk about their fluidity. And it is a small thing but I didn’t feel that Jules was really free yet to start up again with Brees.
I think I wanted more information because I really liked the characters and wanted to know more about them. The story is easy to read and I zipped through it almost in one sitting. I enjoyed this book and the author's Alder series and will look for what she writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Harnett is great at getting to the emotions of the characters. Brees is connected to her town as they are her family. Jules represents change. But the pair are always drawn together. Side characters add some depth but the women are the stars. There are some time jumps that I wished were more explicit. The big one is evident but others of weeks, months or years were unclear. I felt a few things were left out like did Brees ever attend college so she could better run her business? Did she have past relationships or only Jules. They never talk about their fluidity. And it is a small thing but I didn’t feel that Jules was really free yet to start up again with Brees.
I think I wanted more information because I really liked the characters and wanted to know more about them. The story is easy to read and I zipped through it almost in one sitting. I enjoyed this book and the author's Alder series and will look for what she writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
July 15, 2024
When I have the choice of which book to read next, I almost always go for a second-chance love story!
I love the uncertainty, the heartache, the longing, the deeply buried love that finally comes to light again.
All of this makes it an enormous reading pleasure for me and when the characters are all as wonderful and lovable as in this book, there is nothing better.
Well, hot scenes are always the icing on the cake and there are a quiet few of them in this wonderfully written love story of Jules and Breezy!
It's small town and big emotions from a teenage age onwards.
They get to know each other very early in life and are repeatedly separated.
Jules doesn't live in Coral Bay like Breezy.
Her family is wealthy and in the construction industry and just tourists, or so it seems when they first meet in Coral Bay at Crabby's, the restaurant/bar where Breezy works. Even though they are best friends from then on and feel more for each other, it takes a while to admit it.
And teenagers' lives are determined by their parents. That's why this story is one that is associated with a lot of pain.
You feel for Breezy, who lost her heart to Juliette Peralta from the very first moment and never gets it back.
Time, decisions - the right and the wrong ones make life difficult for everyone.
The path to a dreamed-of happy ending and life together is made extremely difficult for them, but nonetheless they get my beloved happy ending.
Thank you to the author for this wonderful love story and also for the ARC!
My thanks also to Bold Stroke Books and Netgalley!
I love the uncertainty, the heartache, the longing, the deeply buried love that finally comes to light again.
All of this makes it an enormous reading pleasure for me and when the characters are all as wonderful and lovable as in this book, there is nothing better.
Well, hot scenes are always the icing on the cake and there are a quiet few of them in this wonderfully written love story of Jules and Breezy!
It's small town and big emotions from a teenage age onwards.
They get to know each other very early in life and are repeatedly separated.
Jules doesn't live in Coral Bay like Breezy.
Her family is wealthy and in the construction industry and just tourists, or so it seems when they first meet in Coral Bay at Crabby's, the restaurant/bar where Breezy works. Even though they are best friends from then on and feel more for each other, it takes a while to admit it.
And teenagers' lives are determined by their parents. That's why this story is one that is associated with a lot of pain.
You feel for Breezy, who lost her heart to Juliette Peralta from the very first moment and never gets it back.
Time, decisions - the right and the wrong ones make life difficult for everyone.
The path to a dreamed-of happy ending and life together is made extremely difficult for them, but nonetheless they get my beloved happy ending.
Thank you to the author for this wonderful love story and also for the ARC!
My thanks also to Bold Stroke Books and Netgalley!
August 28, 2024
This was a short read and cute enough. I liked the small-town setting and the city and townie pairing. My main issue was that I didn't get super invested in the pairing, the time jump was pretty abrupt and Breezy let Jules back in wayy too easily.
I don't think Jules should be crucified for a decision she made at seventeen. Still, she was not apologetic enough when she came back, particularly considering her later actions. She knows how protective Breezy is of the town yet she pursues a relationship with her again without being fully honest on what she's doing back in town. She knows Breezy will react poorly to the news she wants to build right next to her property so she keeps this from her while continuing to sleep with her.
And then there's Oscar, while his heart was in the right place when it comes to saving the town the fact that he scammed his best friend into signing a contract by lying to her about the actual plans was just so gross. Again he didn't seem that apologetic about it and Breezy forgives him straight away.
She was just too much a pushover and everyone around her took advantage of that instead of just, having an actual conversation with her? Considering she was always pretty easy to talk around anyway.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I don't think Jules should be crucified for a decision she made at seventeen. Still, she was not apologetic enough when she came back, particularly considering her later actions. She knows how protective Breezy is of the town yet she pursues a relationship with her again without being fully honest on what she's doing back in town. She knows Breezy will react poorly to the news she wants to build right next to her property so she keeps this from her while continuing to sleep with her.
And then there's Oscar, while his heart was in the right place when it comes to saving the town the fact that he scammed his best friend into signing a contract by lying to her about the actual plans was just so gross. Again he didn't seem that apologetic about it and Breezy forgives him straight away.
She was just too much a pushover and everyone around her took advantage of that instead of just, having an actual conversation with her? Considering she was always pretty easy to talk around anyway.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2025
Comes in Waves is a second chance romance between local Tanya Brees and annual summer tourist Juliette Peralta. The opening chapters detail the early years as the couple gradually become more than friends. The second act begins sixteen years after Juliette terminates the relationship via napkin note and disappears completely.
Much of the remaining story arc covers the couple reconnecting with the possibility of something continuing as they move forward. There is a decent supporting cast, most of whom provide greater insights into what drives Tanya. The reader learns little about Juliette beyond what Tanya discovers during their interactions.
. Up until this incident, Comes in Waves had been a good read. Unfortunately, these actions left a very sour taste, and this reader did not particularly enjoy the rest of the story
Much of the remaining story arc covers the couple reconnecting with the possibility of something continuing as they move forward. There is a decent supporting cast, most of whom provide greater insights into what drives Tanya. The reader learns little about Juliette beyond what Tanya discovers during their interactions.
. Up until this incident, Comes in Waves had been a good read. Unfortunately, these actions left a very sour taste, and this reader did not particularly enjoy the rest of the story
July 29, 2024
Apparently second chances books are what I'm reading today. This was like Romeo and Juliet and true love that ends not well.
Tanya (Breezy) Brees is a townie of Coastal bay, Florida and has had a great childhood so far when she meets Juliette Peralta at thirteen. For the next few years, they communicate with letters and a couple of visits during the summer when her family has business in town. They share their first kiss at seventeen and confess their love for one another when Juliette disappears without a trace except for a note.
Sixteen years later, they meet again when Juliette is there to get the family resort up and running. They dance around each other for awhile, but it was inevitable they'd hook up again. There was the classic miscommunication/not telling everything, but it was resolved fairly quickly. I wish we'd gotten Juliette's POV to flesh the story out a little more.
I enjoyed the side characters of Oscar, Austin and Benny as well.
This was a great summer read though and I do recommend it. I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Tanya (Breezy) Brees is a townie of Coastal bay, Florida and has had a great childhood so far when she meets Juliette Peralta at thirteen. For the next few years, they communicate with letters and a couple of visits during the summer when her family has business in town. They share their first kiss at seventeen and confess their love for one another when Juliette disappears without a trace except for a note.
Sixteen years later, they meet again when Juliette is there to get the family resort up and running. They dance around each other for awhile, but it was inevitable they'd hook up again. There was the classic miscommunication/not telling everything, but it was resolved fairly quickly. I wish we'd gotten Juliette's POV to flesh the story out a little more.
I enjoyed the side characters of Oscar, Austin and Benny as well.
This was a great summer read though and I do recommend it. I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2024
I was a little hesitant at first with this book when it started when they were teenagers. However I was soon into it and I loved it.
It combined life in a small, sleepy, seaside town with the journey from teenagers to successful business women. It moves through time without mentioning it, so don't expect a chapter to be headed 5 years later or anything like that. You have to work out for yourself that time has passed and they have aged accordingly.
There is also the push and pull in their friendship and relationship. As adults there is also conflict about their various life and business choices.
Whilst there is little doubt what the ending between the 2 of them will be, there are some surprises thrown into the mix.
There is of course an epilogue - providing an update on their lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It is the 1st of her books that I have read - I shall no doubt now want to read more.
It combined life in a small, sleepy, seaside town with the journey from teenagers to successful business women. It moves through time without mentioning it, so don't expect a chapter to be headed 5 years later or anything like that. You have to work out for yourself that time has passed and they have aged accordingly.
There is also the push and pull in their friendship and relationship. As adults there is also conflict about their various life and business choices.
Whilst there is little doubt what the ending between the 2 of them will be, there are some surprises thrown into the mix.
There is of course an epilogue - providing an update on their lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It is the 1st of her books that I have read - I shall no doubt now want to read more.
August 31, 2024
3.5 stars
"Comes in Waves" is a delightful read that draws you in from the very first page. The opening is strong and sets a captivating tone for the story ahead.
One of the highlights of this book is the development of the two main characters. Their connection is beautifully portrayed, bridging social and geographical divides in a way that feels genuine and relatable. Reichardt does a fantastic job of exploring the nuances of their relationship, making it easy to fall for them throughout their journey.
While the second conflict might feel a bit contrived at times, it ultimately serves to emphasize the strength of their bond. The ending is sweet and satisfying, though it leaves you wishing for a bit more depth to fully explore their story.
Overall, "Comes in Waves" is a charming read that combines emotion and warmth, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a heartfelt sapphic romance.
ARC received for an honest review
"Comes in Waves" is a delightful read that draws you in from the very first page. The opening is strong and sets a captivating tone for the story ahead.
One of the highlights of this book is the development of the two main characters. Their connection is beautifully portrayed, bridging social and geographical divides in a way that feels genuine and relatable. Reichardt does a fantastic job of exploring the nuances of their relationship, making it easy to fall for them throughout their journey.
While the second conflict might feel a bit contrived at times, it ultimately serves to emphasize the strength of their bond. The ending is sweet and satisfying, though it leaves you wishing for a bit more depth to fully explore their story.
Overall, "Comes in Waves" is a charming read that combines emotion and warmth, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a heartfelt sapphic romance.
ARC received for an honest review
August 18, 2025
Well, the first half of this was brilliant, right up until that very last note. Which was a giant WTF (as it was meant to be, of course). I could have happily read a whole book about just this part! Killer YA beach story.
The second half was the second chance, and I love a good second chance. I thought it played out really well as Breezy started justifiably standoffish but then her walls slowly crumbled.
Then we got to Oscar. I am still kind of trying to figure out how I feel, but I think the bottom line is, I’m not ready to forgive him.
Anyway, it ended in a way it likely wouldn’t have if *I’d* been the character at the center of it… but that doesn’t make it wrong. I still loved it, both the first chance and the second.
All in all, an excellent beach read!
Discussion with Maria: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNiNqp3upCw/
The second half was the second chance, and I love a good second chance. I thought it played out really well as Breezy started justifiably standoffish but then her walls slowly crumbled.
Then we got to Oscar. I am still kind of trying to figure out how I feel, but I think the bottom line is, I’m not ready to forgive him.
Anyway, it ended in a way it likely wouldn’t have if *I’d* been the character at the center of it… but that doesn’t make it wrong. I still loved it, both the first chance and the second.
All in all, an excellent beach read!
Discussion with Maria: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNiNqp3upCw/
July 26, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Oh I enjoyed this one so much!😭 I loved the beach vibes and the whole setting of this novel. It’s a perfect sapphic summer read that had me saying “awwww” way to many times which I loved❤️ I loved the characters in this book so much. Not one to me was unlikeable. Jules and Breezy aka (Tanya) were just the sweetest. Although they definitely had ups and downs throughout the years that passed from when they were 14, they found each other again and finally worked it all out and got back together🫶🏻 it was just such a sweet story that was pretty fast paced, and always got to the point that I was understanding exactly what was happening. Extremely enjoyable🫶🏻
Oh I enjoyed this one so much!😭 I loved the beach vibes and the whole setting of this novel. It’s a perfect sapphic summer read that had me saying “awwww” way to many times which I loved❤️ I loved the characters in this book so much. Not one to me was unlikeable. Jules and Breezy aka (Tanya) were just the sweetest. Although they definitely had ups and downs throughout the years that passed from when they were 14, they found each other again and finally worked it all out and got back together🫶🏻 it was just such a sweet story that was pretty fast paced, and always got to the point that I was understanding exactly what was happening. Extremely enjoyable🫶🏻
June 26, 2025
I love a summer romance! This book had multiple summers, starting with the one where Tanya Brees meets Juliette Peralta when they were 14 years old and instantly became friends. However, a tourist and a townie relationship does not come without issues. So, over the years, best friends turn to lovers and then to nothing. Now, as adults, they have to navigate their past in order to have a future.
I liked this easy read. I do wish it was longer to allow the storytlines to develop more, but it was still enjoyable. Still recommend it if you're looking for a fun, quick summer read!
I liked this easy read. I do wish it was longer to allow the storytlines to develop more, but it was still enjoyable. Still recommend it if you're looking for a fun, quick summer read!
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