What do you think?
Rate this book
The Secrets of Maiden's Cove
Once upon a time, a girl called out to the sea, and the sea answered back... Welcome to a magical seaside village in Chesapeake Bay, where the ocean glitters and glows as it calls friends and family home.
Grace Cleary is finally home. When Grace inherits her late father's restaurant in her enchanting childhood hometown of Maiden's Cove - a magical Cove where rumours of mermaids abound - it seems like the perfect escape for her and her daughter from her controlling husband.
Isla was said to be a mermaid. But to Grace, Isla was her best friend, until one summer by the sea fifteen years ago tore them apart. When Grace finally calls out to the sea once more, Isla is drawn back to Maiden's Cove, where forgiveness and peace might just be found.
The Secrets of Maiden's Coveasks us what it means to have a home, as midnight swims, reunited friends, and a reawakened love await Grace as she fights to revive her family restaurant and forge a new life for herself and her daughter.
Grace Cleary is finally home. When Grace inherits her late father's restaurant in her enchanting childhood hometown of Maiden's Cove - a magical Cove where rumours of mermaids abound - it seems like the perfect escape for her and her daughter from her controlling husband.
Isla was said to be a mermaid. But to Grace, Isla was her best friend, until one summer by the sea fifteen years ago tore them apart. When Grace finally calls out to the sea once more, Isla is drawn back to Maiden's Cove, where forgiveness and peace might just be found.
The Secrets of Maiden's Coveasks us what it means to have a home, as midnight swims, reunited friends, and a reawakened love await Grace as she fights to revive her family restaurant and forge a new life for herself and her daughter.
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
16 people are currently reading
5849 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 24, 2025
This isn't my usual cup of tea so this is a difficult one to rate, because I did think it was very sweet for the right reader regardless. I was looking for a cozy fantasy with mermaids and a small, charming coastal town, and it was more of a Hallmark movie and the speculative elements were a very small part of the overall plot.
I also found the writing style tended to tell more than show (especially in terms of romantic tension) and the romantic subplots were predictable and bland. Luckily they weren't the main part of the story. Ultimately this was just a little too corny for my taste.
Where this book really shone was that it really made me feel like I was summering in the Chesepeake Bay with this family. It also celebrated female friendships and was a realistic look at small town restaurants in tourist areas.
Grace moves back home after her father's death to escape an abusive marriage and take over her family's struggling crab shack. Along the way she rekindles a romance with her childhood crush, her brother's best friend, and renews a friendship with her soul sister childhood best friend, who may or may not be a mermaid. The found family elements in this were charming and the best part of the book.
It did offer a palate cleanser after the heavy stuff I had been reading and I felt my expectations were in line with what I got. But I was hoping for cozy fantasy instead of Virgin River. However, the right reader will love this sweet story of small towns, summers at the shore, delicious food and second chances.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also found the writing style tended to tell more than show (especially in terms of romantic tension) and the romantic subplots were predictable and bland. Luckily they weren't the main part of the story. Ultimately this was just a little too corny for my taste.
Where this book really shone was that it really made me feel like I was summering in the Chesepeake Bay with this family. It also celebrated female friendships and was a realistic look at small town restaurants in tourist areas.
Grace moves back home after her father's death to escape an abusive marriage and take over her family's struggling crab shack. Along the way she rekindles a romance with her childhood crush, her brother's best friend, and renews a friendship with her soul sister childhood best friend, who may or may not be a mermaid. The found family elements in this were charming and the best part of the book.
It did offer a palate cleanser after the heavy stuff I had been reading and I felt my expectations were in line with what I got. But I was hoping for cozy fantasy instead of Virgin River. However, the right reader will love this sweet story of small towns, summers at the shore, delicious food and second chances.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2025
I was so pumped to get to read this ARC. After having visited the Chesapeake region growing up, this book made me even more nostalgic for the East Coast. Palmisano has you hooked (some pun intended) from the beginning with wondering if the myth of local mermaid(s) are true, do the main characters finally get a chance at happily ever afters? But more than that it will make you grateful for your best friend, especially if they’ve been in your life since adolescence like Isla and Grace. If you’re wanting to get lost in the magic of what ifs, second chances, and summer on the water pick this book up.
July 14, 2025
Such a fun, magical summer read! I love that there was recipes to experiment with, too!
Read
November 29, 2025This novel sweeps us into a magical Chesapeake Bay village where Grace Cleary returns home to rebuild her life, revive her father’s restaurant, and face the heartbreak that once tore her and her best friend Isla apart. The story explores home, healing, and a touch of seaside magic.
That said, I stopped at page 138. For me, it felt too wishy-washy, and I couldn’t connect with the characters or the pacing. Still, readers who enjoy gentle coastal magic may appreciate it more than I did.
That said, I stopped at page 138. For me, it felt too wishy-washy, and I couldn’t connect with the characters or the pacing. Still, readers who enjoy gentle coastal magic may appreciate it more than I did.
October 14, 2025
I'm sorry but this book seemed like it still needed a very good edit. The author over-explained EVERYTHING, and in not a very well-written way. It was over-explained as if it was complicated storyline or set of characters to understand in the first place.
Which it wasn't in the slightest - it was such a simple storyline, all tell, and no leave it up to our imagination and mystery to unfold, or finding imaginative ways to show characters backstories etc. And on top of that the dialogue was so INCREDIBLY CHEESY!
Flashbacks were just repetitive to the main story. Again, needed edits so it wasn't superfluous to the narrative.
Incredible that I finished it, as I don't normally finish books that I would rate a 2, but that's why gave it a 2 - because I finished it. So I'll give it that. It was easy as to read, and not a particularly long book, so I saw it through. There were sweet bits, and it was nice getting to know that part of Maryland, US, in Chesapeake - sounds like a lovely area! I love the mermaid and holiday feels. It had potential, but perhaps the editors advised the author wrong, or didn't want to give feedback?
I actually really enjoyed her first book - The secrets of the Greek Taverna, for a fun simple read set in Greece. But this one, was so over-explained and so repetitive and cheesy. Sorry, it was a flop (with potential).
Which it wasn't in the slightest - it was such a simple storyline, all tell, and no leave it up to our imagination and mystery to unfold, or finding imaginative ways to show characters backstories etc. And on top of that the dialogue was so INCREDIBLY CHEESY!
Flashbacks were just repetitive to the main story. Again, needed edits so it wasn't superfluous to the narrative.
Incredible that I finished it, as I don't normally finish books that I would rate a 2, but that's why gave it a 2 - because I finished it. So I'll give it that. It was easy as to read, and not a particularly long book, so I saw it through. There were sweet bits, and it was nice getting to know that part of Maryland, US, in Chesapeake - sounds like a lovely area! I love the mermaid and holiday feels. It had potential, but perhaps the editors advised the author wrong, or didn't want to give feedback?
I actually really enjoyed her first book - The secrets of the Greek Taverna, for a fun simple read set in Greece. But this one, was so over-explained and so repetitive and cheesy. Sorry, it was a flop (with potential).
May 13, 2025
You know that feeling when a book feels like a cosy return home and a fresh start at the same time? That’s exactly what The Secrets of Maiden’s Cove gave me. This story is a beautiful blend of second chances, small-town charm, and a touch of mermaid magic ♡︎
We follow Grace Cleary as she comes back to her childhood hometown on Chesapeake Bay, trying to rebuild her life after a difficult marriage. Inheriting her dad’s old restaurant, Grace finds herself not only reviving a business but also reconnecting with old friends and rediscovering pieces of herself she’d lost. There’s heartache, healing, and a sweet romance that slowly and gently unfolds ♡︎
What really stuck with me was the atmosphere, the midnight swims, the salty breeze, and the nostalgic, bittersweet feeling of coming home but realising everything has changed. The Author writes with so much heart, it feels like you’re walking the beach alongside Grace ♡︎
If you love stories about found family, mending friendships, and rediscovering joy (with a sprinkle of mermaid lore for good measure), this one’s for you. It has its own unique and magical vibe ♡︎
I honestly didn’t want to leave Maiden’s Cove, this is the PERFECT summery read ♡︎
We follow Grace Cleary as she comes back to her childhood hometown on Chesapeake Bay, trying to rebuild her life after a difficult marriage. Inheriting her dad’s old restaurant, Grace finds herself not only reviving a business but also reconnecting with old friends and rediscovering pieces of herself she’d lost. There’s heartache, healing, and a sweet romance that slowly and gently unfolds ♡︎
What really stuck with me was the atmosphere, the midnight swims, the salty breeze, and the nostalgic, bittersweet feeling of coming home but realising everything has changed. The Author writes with so much heart, it feels like you’re walking the beach alongside Grace ♡︎
If you love stories about found family, mending friendships, and rediscovering joy (with a sprinkle of mermaid lore for good measure), this one’s for you. It has its own unique and magical vibe ♡︎
I honestly didn’t want to leave Maiden’s Cove, this is the PERFECT summery read ♡︎
October 6, 2025
After reading Little Greek Taverna I was beyond excited to read this book. However I was extremely disappointed. This book felt poorly written, a strange disjointed pace that got me confused at times, with sub plot lines that were irrelevant and some major plot lines also disjointed.
The intentions with this book were there and had potential to be really beautiful and magical but sadly missed the mark for me
The intentions with this book were there and had potential to be really beautiful and magical but sadly missed the mark for me
September 8, 2025
I had high hopes for this read. It started off so sweet and full of promise. I was excited to escape into a small country town and learn about mermaids!
The writing style was not my cup of tea. It really challenged me to visualise I felt like I had to skip over so much.
I also did not expect domestic violence or any of the dark themes and would have really preferred to not read about that.
The writing style was not my cup of tea. It really challenged me to visualise I felt like I had to skip over so much.
I also did not expect domestic violence or any of the dark themes and would have really preferred to not read about that.
July 28, 2025
Cheesy
March 2, 2025
"The Secrets of Maiden's Cove" by Erin Palmisano is a beautifully woven tapestry of resilience, love, and the enduring power of community, all set against the backdrop of a charming coastal town. From the very first pages, you're drawn into the heart of Grace's world, a world deeply rooted in the salty air and the close-knit bonds of Maiden's Cove.
One of the novel's strongest elements is the portrayal of Grace's childhood friendship with Isla, the fisherman's daughter. This isn't just a fleeting childhood bond; it's a deep, unwavering connection that shapes Grace's understanding of loyalty and belonging. Palmisano paints their friendship with a tender authenticity, capturing the carefree joy and unwavering support that only true childhood companions can provide. This foundation of friendship becomes a crucial anchor for Grace as she navigates the complexities of her adult life.
Grace's strength and resilience, particularly as a mother to Bayla, are truly inspiring. Palmisano skillfully portrays the challenges of single motherhood, highlighting Grace's unwavering dedication to her daughter. Bayla, in turn, reflects her mother's strength, creating a powerful dynamic that resonates deeply. You feel their struggles, their triumphs, and the unwavering love that binds them.
The small coastal town setting is more than just a backdrop; it's a character in its own right. Palmisano vividly brings Maiden's Cove to life, capturing the rhythm of its daily life and the warmth of its community. When Grace faces adversity, the town rallies around her, demonstrating the true meaning of solidarity. This sense of community is a breath of fresh air, reminding us of the power of human connection.
The novel also gracefully weaves in elements of romance and regret. Grace's past is filled with choices that have shaped her present, and Palmisano handles these themes with sensitivity and nuance. The exploration of regret is not about dwelling on the past, but about understanding how it influences our present and future. The romantic elements are tender and heartfelt, adding another layer of emotional depth to Grace's journey.
"The Secrets of Maiden's Cove" is a story that stays with you long after you turn the final page. It's a testament to the strength of female bonds, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of love and community. Erin Palmisano has crafted a truly captivating and heartwarming novel that I highly recommend."
Written with the help of AI
M. Roberts
One of the novel's strongest elements is the portrayal of Grace's childhood friendship with Isla, the fisherman's daughter. This isn't just a fleeting childhood bond; it's a deep, unwavering connection that shapes Grace's understanding of loyalty and belonging. Palmisano paints their friendship with a tender authenticity, capturing the carefree joy and unwavering support that only true childhood companions can provide. This foundation of friendship becomes a crucial anchor for Grace as she navigates the complexities of her adult life.
Grace's strength and resilience, particularly as a mother to Bayla, are truly inspiring. Palmisano skillfully portrays the challenges of single motherhood, highlighting Grace's unwavering dedication to her daughter. Bayla, in turn, reflects her mother's strength, creating a powerful dynamic that resonates deeply. You feel their struggles, their triumphs, and the unwavering love that binds them.
The small coastal town setting is more than just a backdrop; it's a character in its own right. Palmisano vividly brings Maiden's Cove to life, capturing the rhythm of its daily life and the warmth of its community. When Grace faces adversity, the town rallies around her, demonstrating the true meaning of solidarity. This sense of community is a breath of fresh air, reminding us of the power of human connection.
The novel also gracefully weaves in elements of romance and regret. Grace's past is filled with choices that have shaped her present, and Palmisano handles these themes with sensitivity and nuance. The exploration of regret is not about dwelling on the past, but about understanding how it influences our present and future. The romantic elements are tender and heartfelt, adding another layer of emotional depth to Grace's journey.
"The Secrets of Maiden's Cove" is a story that stays with you long after you turn the final page. It's a testament to the strength of female bonds, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of love and community. Erin Palmisano has crafted a truly captivating and heartwarming novel that I highly recommend."
Written with the help of AI
M. Roberts
May 10, 2025
The Secrets of Maiden's Cove is a whimsical small-town tale perfect for summer reading.
Grace comes home to Maiden's Cove after her father passes away, taking over the family restaurant and finding a close knit found family for herself and her young daughter. Her best friend from her teen years, Isla, also comes back this summer. Town legend tells the story of the last mermaid, and townsfolk have always believed Isla to be that mermaid.
The notes of magical realism are just a small part of the story, but the entire read is charming and whimsical. Reading about the small town and its summer festivals feels like spending your time in an idyllic summer locale, including the best seafood you've ever had in your life. Palmisano's food descriptions had my mouth watering, and I clearly recall her doing the same thing with Greek food in her prior novel!
Palmisano's writing shines in her descriptions - those of the bay, the bioluminescence at night, the taste of the seafood dishes and the experience of eating crab for the first time.
There are plenty of characters to keep track of, from Grace's abusive ex to her estranged brother to her stepmother and the many people working at the restaurant with her. Some of them get mini romantic sideplots along the way, but the main love story is really the friendship between Grace and Isla, or Gracenisla as they were once known. The beginning of their friendship was magical, and their bond unbreakable even after years apart.
With so many characters to keep track of, some of them do feel surface level or like caricatures rather than in-depth characters. I also found that some of the dialogue didn't feel quite right - I have an 8 year old, and he and his friends definitely don't speak the way the 8 year old in this book did!
"One from the land and one from the sea. Summer soul sisters forever shall we be."
Thanks to GCP for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
Grace comes home to Maiden's Cove after her father passes away, taking over the family restaurant and finding a close knit found family for herself and her young daughter. Her best friend from her teen years, Isla, also comes back this summer. Town legend tells the story of the last mermaid, and townsfolk have always believed Isla to be that mermaid.
The notes of magical realism are just a small part of the story, but the entire read is charming and whimsical. Reading about the small town and its summer festivals feels like spending your time in an idyllic summer locale, including the best seafood you've ever had in your life. Palmisano's food descriptions had my mouth watering, and I clearly recall her doing the same thing with Greek food in her prior novel!
Palmisano's writing shines in her descriptions - those of the bay, the bioluminescence at night, the taste of the seafood dishes and the experience of eating crab for the first time.
There are plenty of characters to keep track of, from Grace's abusive ex to her estranged brother to her stepmother and the many people working at the restaurant with her. Some of them get mini romantic sideplots along the way, but the main love story is really the friendship between Grace and Isla, or Gracenisla as they were once known. The beginning of their friendship was magical, and their bond unbreakable even after years apart.
With so many characters to keep track of, some of them do feel surface level or like caricatures rather than in-depth characters. I also found that some of the dialogue didn't feel quite right - I have an 8 year old, and he and his friends definitely don't speak the way the 8 year old in this book did!
"One from the land and one from the sea. Summer soul sisters forever shall we be."
Thanks to GCP for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
March 5, 2025
‘One from the land, one from the sea, summer soul sisters, forever shall we be’
If you are looking for a beach read full of wonderful characters in a gorgeous setting, then this book is for you.
The Secrets Of Maiden’s Cove is set in a charming seaside village in Chesapeake Bay and I want to go live there now. It sounds like such a magical place where you could spend all day swimming in the ocean or hang in the wonderful restaurants with friends.
This book was about a lady called Grace, who with her daughter Bayla, she made the trip home to escape her controlling husband and also to take over the running of her dad’s restaurant called Cleary’s.
With Grace coming home, we get to meet her childhood friend Isla along with her teenage crush Luke plus a whole lot of her wonderful family and friends. I absolutely loved the community here, they all had each others back and supported each other to the max.
Such an enjoyable storyline, one that takes you off to somewhere beautiful where you can just escape and relax.
A great easy and fun read.
If you are looking for a beach read full of wonderful characters in a gorgeous setting, then this book is for you.
The Secrets Of Maiden’s Cove is set in a charming seaside village in Chesapeake Bay and I want to go live there now. It sounds like such a magical place where you could spend all day swimming in the ocean or hang in the wonderful restaurants with friends.
This book was about a lady called Grace, who with her daughter Bayla, she made the trip home to escape her controlling husband and also to take over the running of her dad’s restaurant called Cleary’s.
With Grace coming home, we get to meet her childhood friend Isla along with her teenage crush Luke plus a whole lot of her wonderful family and friends. I absolutely loved the community here, they all had each others back and supported each other to the max.
Such an enjoyable storyline, one that takes you off to somewhere beautiful where you can just escape and relax.
A great easy and fun read.
May 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Grace grew up on the small coastal town of Maidens Cove. Her family’s history in the town goes way back and her family is rumoured to be able to call mermaids. She left her small town as a twenty year old but with the death of her father and ingratiating the family restaurant she is back for good with her 8 year old daughter in tow.
Isla is rumoured to be a mermaid, she and her fisherman father showed up in Maidens Cover one summer where she met Grace and they instantly became best friends. She and Grace had a falling out 15 years ago but when she hears Grace’s call to come home she answers.
This was the perfect summer read, I had such a good time from start to finish. The author made me desperate to visit Maidens Cove and interact with all the characters. The atmosphere was so rich and all the characters had growth. Things felt a little rushed at the end and were not full fleshed out. But over all this was a good book
Grace grew up on the small coastal town of Maidens Cove. Her family’s history in the town goes way back and her family is rumoured to be able to call mermaids. She left her small town as a twenty year old but with the death of her father and ingratiating the family restaurant she is back for good with her 8 year old daughter in tow.
Isla is rumoured to be a mermaid, she and her fisherman father showed up in Maidens Cover one summer where she met Grace and they instantly became best friends. She and Grace had a falling out 15 years ago but when she hears Grace’s call to come home she answers.
This was the perfect summer read, I had such a good time from start to finish. The author made me desperate to visit Maidens Cove and interact with all the characters. The atmosphere was so rich and all the characters had growth. Things felt a little rushed at the end and were not full fleshed out. But over all this was a good book
April 23, 2025
This fictional story with a whiff of mermaid magic was a joy to relax with. Grace is coming home with her daughter, the right time to escape, take over the family restaurant. Isla her childhood best friend is coming back, to escape, to her summer haunt and her best friend. A summer of looking back and forward, hard work, love, memories, hurt and healing, and maybe mermaids are real, certainly Grace’s daughter thinks so. Thank you to Headline and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
June 6, 2025
Isn't it great when book covers do their jobs? You get the subtle Hallmark movie vibes from the artwork of Maiden's Cove. This is the sort of book for people who like drinking in summertime on the boardwalk--there's a subtle hint of mermaid magic, but most of the plot is potlucks and family time. Hence, the Hallmark reference. It's heavy on East Coast traditionalism, with a reverent nod to people who enjoy working in hospitality and food service--my people. If you don't walk away from this book hungry, you're doing something wrong.
September 18, 2025
The cover of The Secrets of Maiden's Cove is beautiful. The story revolves around friendship and family, and is somewhat predictable. I had hoped to like it more than I did. Thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy of this ebook. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Recommends this product ✘ No
Recommends this product ✘ No
May 26, 2025
The first half of the book was lovely, charming, cozy, and whimsical, and the second half was unexpectedly dark & traumatic, betraying me and giving me whiplash at the same time, rapidly bringing the rating down from four stars to two. I will not be forgiving it anytime soon. 😡
February 27, 2025
A gorgeous meditation on food, love and friendship. Loved it.
February 28, 2025
Thank you to the publisher, author and Netgalley for this quaint and magical tale of friendship and life. An enjoyable read- I love a mermaid book! Thank you
April 18, 2025
Bayla and Mape are the sweetest kids ever and some of these characters had me cracking up. Honestly I loved the vibes it was so whimsical
Made me a bit hungry as well tbh
Made me a bit hungry as well tbh
April 25, 2025
Magical story
May 7, 2025
fun story about solidarity, rebuilding your life, and revitalizing your familyrestaurant. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
May 26, 2025
*ARC Review*
This was the perfect summer read! Grace and Isla are the sweetest soul sisters. I love everything about this book! 🧜♀️🐚
This was the perfect summer read! Grace and Isla are the sweetest soul sisters. I love everything about this book! 🧜♀️🐚
June 11, 2025
good book
June 21, 2025
Long time friends, mystery, hints of mermaids, food, friendship, romance.
June 24, 2025
Loved it, easy reading with a touch of magic
August 3, 2025
Perfect summer read at the beach. I really enjoy Erin Palmisano’s writing style.
August 22, 2025
this book makes me believe in magic
September 10, 2025
Quick, easy read. Plot was a little silly in places and very predictable.
September 11, 2025
Loved this book. A magical life affirming story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews