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Hometown Brothers #3
The Beach Reads Bookshop
Running a bookstore on a quaint Chesapeake island is exactly the life Deena Clark would have chosen for herself--but helping billionaire businessman Luis Dominguez figure out fatherhood is part of the package. Can bonding over books and one little girl help them open their hearts to each other?
464 pages, Library Binding
First published April 1, 2023
77 people are currently reading
4299 people want to read
About the author
Lee Tobin McClain
175 books527 followersNew York Times bestselling author of emotional, heartwarming romances. Visit http://www.leetobinmcclain.com to join newsletter, get book release details, and find out more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 21, 2025
4 stars
Deena Clarke has been caring for her best friend’s young child, Willow, since Tammalee died. She plans to speak to Willow’s father, Luis Dominguez, about the situation. Deena is struggling to juggle her job and caring for Willow. The problem is Luis has no idea he is a father. Tammalee had never told him she was pregnant. Their’s had not been a long time relationship just a few nights.
When Luis learns about Willow he wants to step up and be a father to her. But he knows he needs help. On Teaberry Island he has his foster mother Betty and his two foster brothers. It is where he spent many happy days. But more importantly he hopes to convince Deena to stay on as Willow’s nanny. To sweeten the deal, Luis a very wealthy man buys an old bookshop on Teaberry Island when he learns Deena loves books. He hopes to convince Deena to manage it as well as help care for Willow. The idea is tempting and Deena agrees to give it a try. What he does not expect and neither does Deena, is the attraction that springs up between them. And Willow is suffering Freon Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, so that is another aspect that plays into the narrative.
There is another story concerning Carol who has lost her job and her husband wants a divorce so he can marry his latest fling. Carol comes back to Teaberry Island where her sister lives, needing to find a job.. She finds one at the bookshop.
I was looking for something light and uplifting. This book was not exactly that in some ways. It ended up being an emotional read, I did enjoy it though very much. The characters were great and so was the setting. Plus books about books and bookshops often make for interesting reading. A recommended read.
i had not read the earlier books in this series. It didn’t matter. This stands alone fine.
Deena Clarke has been caring for her best friend’s young child, Willow, since Tammalee died. She plans to speak to Willow’s father, Luis Dominguez, about the situation. Deena is struggling to juggle her job and caring for Willow. The problem is Luis has no idea he is a father. Tammalee had never told him she was pregnant. Their’s had not been a long time relationship just a few nights.
When Luis learns about Willow he wants to step up and be a father to her. But he knows he needs help. On Teaberry Island he has his foster mother Betty and his two foster brothers. It is where he spent many happy days. But more importantly he hopes to convince Deena to stay on as Willow’s nanny. To sweeten the deal, Luis a very wealthy man buys an old bookshop on Teaberry Island when he learns Deena loves books. He hopes to convince Deena to manage it as well as help care for Willow. The idea is tempting and Deena agrees to give it a try. What he does not expect and neither does Deena, is the attraction that springs up between them. And Willow is suffering Freon Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, so that is another aspect that plays into the narrative.
There is another story concerning Carol who has lost her job and her husband wants a divorce so he can marry his latest fling. Carol comes back to Teaberry Island where her sister lives, needing to find a job.. She finds one at the bookshop.
I was looking for something light and uplifting. This book was not exactly that in some ways. It ended up being an emotional read, I did enjoy it though very much. The characters were great and so was the setting. Plus books about books and bookshops often make for interesting reading. A recommended read.
i had not read the earlier books in this series. It didn’t matter. This stands alone fine.
April 22, 2023
The two storylines in this book mesh perfectly and create a wholesome and unique story about starting over and building a new life. Deena Clark has the task of caring for her best friend’s toddler daughter when Tammalee dies unexpectedly. She seeks the help of billionaire entrepreneur Luis Dominguez, a self-made man who also happens to be the baby’s father. Luis has the brilliant idea to open a bookshop on Teaberry Island and to put Deena in charge of it. Thus, she becomes the baby’s caregiver and a shop manager at the same time, changing all that is familiar to her for a totally new life. The second story centers around an older woman named Carol who loses her tutoring job and is at a loss as to where to turn for new employment at her age. She goes to the family home on the island and expects to open her grandfather’s old bookstore, only to find that Luis has purchased it already. Thus, the two plot lines intersect beautifully. I must say that at first I didn’t really like Carol because she seemed manipulative and too needy. But as the story progressed and I got to know her better, I did enjoy her flaws as well as her strengths. The romance is a central part of the story, too, and although it is totally predictable, there are a few surprises along the way that made it entertaining and a fun read. With dynamic characters who grow along with the story and a plot that moves along at a good clip, this was an enjoyable and quick read that I can highly recommend. It warmed my heart that each character discovered their place in the world and how they could support each other through their many challenges.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
April 29, 2023
Meh. I feel as if these characters are not very well rounded, and the story left out a lot of details which could have helped the flat feeling of the story. FASD was one of the features in this book that seemed to be what the author wanted us to understand, but even that wasn’t well described. “Willow had features of FASD.”
I have enjoyed books by this author in the past, and I finished this one, but probably won’t finish another if it is like this one.
I have enjoyed books by this author in the past, and I finished this one, but probably won’t finish another if it is like this one.
April 26, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop is the final book in the Hometown Brothers trilogy. I suppose you could read them as standalone stories because each is about a different foster brother, but there would be spoilers if you read this one and wanted to read the previous two. This one is Luis Dominguez’s story. Luis is your typical self-made man. He is excellent at business and is quite wealthy. He has no desire to marry, but enjoys having some dalliances along the way. One of those, Deena Clark's now deceased roommate resulted in a daughter, Willow. After a positive DNA test, Luis is ready to take over and become a dad. Moving Willow and Deena (to be her nanny) out to Teaberry Island, he plans to work all week in DC and come home on the weekends. Meanwhile, there is a secondary story involving, Carol, a woman in her 50s who loses her job at the University because they are putting their tutoring program online and she is no longer needed. As well, she finds out her husband is cheating on her, so she packs up and moves to Teaberry Island to stay in her family's summer home. As she tries to begin a new life on the island with her sister and nephew, her story and Deena's come together.
This is a wonderful story about new beginnings, finding your happiness and place in the world, following your dreams, life balance and family. Luis is a tough businessman with a soft heart. Even though he was skeptical about Willow, he stepped right up to be her father, and she quickly wrapped him around her finger. He didn't know how to be a father though, especially as he didn't have one as a child, so that was a real curveball for him. Deena was such a wonderful character as well. Willow wasn't her child, but she had stepped up when her mother was killed and now she was a mama bear where Willow was concerned. A major plot point in the story is that Willow has suspected FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome) which means she needs special care and interventions. The secondary characters, especially those that befriended Carol were a hoot. They were lifers on Teaberry Island and remembered the bookstore when it was an historical store with classics as well. What they do to bring that back was the comic relief in the story. I don't want to give anymore away, but suffice it to say, there is a happily ever after for all the main characters. I also loved how these two storylines complimented each other and meshed for the complete story. Yes, this is a romance, but it also deals with childhood trauma and how it affects adults, taking care of yourself physically, responsible dating, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, family, friendship, infidelity, starting over and more. I recommend this book to those who enjoy women's fiction, uplit and romance.
This is a wonderful story about new beginnings, finding your happiness and place in the world, following your dreams, life balance and family. Luis is a tough businessman with a soft heart. Even though he was skeptical about Willow, he stepped right up to be her father, and she quickly wrapped him around her finger. He didn't know how to be a father though, especially as he didn't have one as a child, so that was a real curveball for him. Deena was such a wonderful character as well. Willow wasn't her child, but she had stepped up when her mother was killed and now she was a mama bear where Willow was concerned. A major plot point in the story is that Willow has suspected FAS (fetal alcohol syndrome) which means she needs special care and interventions. The secondary characters, especially those that befriended Carol were a hoot. They were lifers on Teaberry Island and remembered the bookstore when it was an historical store with classics as well. What they do to bring that back was the comic relief in the story. I don't want to give anymore away, but suffice it to say, there is a happily ever after for all the main characters. I also loved how these two storylines complimented each other and meshed for the complete story. Yes, this is a romance, but it also deals with childhood trauma and how it affects adults, taking care of yourself physically, responsible dating, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, family, friendship, infidelity, starting over and more. I recommend this book to those who enjoy women's fiction, uplit and romance.
October 26, 2023
This was my least favorite of the 3 books. I didn't really connect to any of the characters. There was just too many issues with this book for me. Deanna being wishy washy about what exactly she wants and expects from Luis. Is it just money? Or does she want him to be a father? But when he has to go to work to make the money she gets mad because he is gone. And nothing makes me dislike a character more than when they assert that if a parent goes to work that makes them a bad parent. How do you pay the bills???? Another big problem I had was the horrible portrayal of librarians. They are not shrews who run around judging their patrons based on what they read like the whole "You don't read classics so you are less than" storyline. I felt sorry for Carol at first, but then when she got to the island and started in on her campaign against the bookstore, I was done with the character, even if she did redeem herself a little later on.
April 7, 2023
What a beautiful beach read! I literally read this on the beach, while on vacation, and it was so fitting! The characters of Deena and Luis were flawed and lovable. Their chemistry was palpable; even when they didn’t understand it, it came off the page. The storyline moved quickly and I really enjoyed the way the wives of Luis’s brothers took Deena in. A good family and community feel!
April 28, 2023
“When one door closes another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” At least according to Alexander Graham Bell. But what if, as occurs in – and at – The Beach Reads Bookstore, it’s not the looking forward and back that does you in, but rather looking next to you at the person who needs to walk through that new door with you – and not trusting them well enough – or at all – when it comes to crossing that next threshold with them at your side.
Two doors have shut behind 50something Carol Fisher. She lost her job and her husband on the same day to the same cause, stupidity. Institutional stupidity on the part of the college where she is suddenly no longer employed in the tutoring center – which is slated to go online. Testosterone-induced middle-age midlife crisis stupidity on the part of her soon-to-be ex-husband, who she caught carrying his nurse through the house on the way to some hanky-panky. A piece of stupidity he’s going to pay for in more ways than one, as he’s currently collecting disability that is going to stop the minute his duplicity is revealed.
An entirely different set of doors has closed for Deena Clark. Her best friend and roommate has died, leaving Deena with custody of her friend’s baby girl, who shows signs of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Deena loves Willow, and wants more than anything to be her mother. But she’s also at the end of her rope. She was barely scraping by financially when she was sharing the apartment, but now that she’s on her own and responsible for a baby who needs extra care, she knows that she doesn’t have the resources to get Willow the help she needs. And that’s just not good enough for little Willow.
Deena sees only one option – to take Willow to her sperm donor and hope that the rich entrepreneur will provide the child support he didn’t know he was responsible for. But Luis Dominguez, once he accepts that Willow is incontrovertibly his, has no plans to pay Deena to make the baby and her caregiver go away.
He intends to be Willow’s father – and he’s willing to cajole or connive in order to make that happen. With all the best intentions – because he’s that kind of Type-A steamroller who believes he always knows best.
His plan is to buy the old, dilapidated bookstore on Teaberry Island, the place where he grew up and where his family still lives, and pay Deena an exorbitant amount of money to manage the bookstore and take care of his daughter – with the able and conveniently nearby assistance of his mother, his two brothers and their wives. His plan keeps Deena with him, gives him something to do on Teaberry Island, and most importantly, gives him time to be a real father to his little girl. All he has to do is tear himself away from his high stakes, high pressure, big time consulting firm in DC.
That his plan to open a door for Willow, Deena and himself runs headlong into Carol’s plan to reopen that same dilapidated bookstore that her family still owns isn’t even on his radar – and he wouldn’t care if it was and doesn’t care when he finds out.
But Teaberry Island is a small town, and everybody pitches in to get the bookstore open again under Luis’ plan for Deena. Except for Carol and her new-found friends, who have plans to take things in an entirely different situation.
Let the games begin!
Escape Rating B: At first it seems as if Carol – along with her friends – is being set up as the villain of this story. Which is entirely unfair, as she’s in every bit as big of a mess when the story begins as Deena is.
But the “A” plot in The Beach Reads Bookshop is Deena’s slow-burn romance with Luis and their pretty inevitable shift from being strangers to becoming a family. It’s cute and it’s sweet and they each have some lessons to learn along the way – but where they’re going to end up is obvious from the beginning so it’s not exactly a surprise when they get there.
Carol’s story, that “B” plot, on the other hand, had a few more twists and turns. (It also went into one nasty corner that I’ll get to in a minute). Carol is the character who is doing a lot of that “regretting the closed door” at least at the beginning, that the quote is talking about. It’s not just that she misses her job and is mourning the end of her marriage, but she’s looking back even further, all the way back to when her grandfather owned the bookstore and the world was just a bit different.
But her sister sold the bookstore out from under her before she even knew Carol wanted it. Which is the point where Carol barged into Deena’s life.
At first it’s that long ago nostalgia that Carol is really trying to recapture – no matter how badly she goes about it. And no matter how much trouble it gets her into. It’s only as she embraces the new life she’s creating on Teaberry Island that her situation really gets interesting – even as it nearly takes a sharp left turn into “grand theft bookstore”.
Once she starts looking forward instead of back she realizes what a fantastic opportunity all of the doors that slammed behind her really were. And while it wasn’t a surprise that her soon-to-be-ex tried – badly – to get her back, it was great that she did not let herself get sucked back into that boring, unfulfilled and unsatisfactory life.
That her journey brings her around to a point where she and Deena are running that bookstore together – and enjoying it and each other’s company – brought everything full circle and tied the story up with a pretty – and somewhat unexpected – bow.
Reviewer’s Note: There was one fly in the sweet-smelling potpourri of this story, at least for this reader, that lies in the way the conflict over the bookstore played out. As ironic as this may sound, in the beginning, both Carol and the local librarian indulged in more than a bit of reader-shaming over the idea that the bookstore would focus on light, fluffy, “beach read” type books. There is a debate, even in library circles, over the question of whether libraries should push people to read “better” books, or if it’s just terrific that people are reading and enjoying it no matter what they choose to read. It’s a debate that was resolved long ago in favor of being happy that people are reading and that it is REALLY bad karma to shame people for what they read. So it left a really bad taste in this reader’s – and librarian’s – to see that debate played out in a rather snide fashion in the earlier parts of this book, especially the way the local librarian was reader-shaming her own patrons. Your reading mileage, of course, may vary. But I hope that whatever you read and love, that we all stop trying to shame other readers for their choices.
Originally published at Reading Reality
Two doors have shut behind 50something Carol Fisher. She lost her job and her husband on the same day to the same cause, stupidity. Institutional stupidity on the part of the college where she is suddenly no longer employed in the tutoring center – which is slated to go online. Testosterone-induced middle-age midlife crisis stupidity on the part of her soon-to-be ex-husband, who she caught carrying his nurse through the house on the way to some hanky-panky. A piece of stupidity he’s going to pay for in more ways than one, as he’s currently collecting disability that is going to stop the minute his duplicity is revealed.
An entirely different set of doors has closed for Deena Clark. Her best friend and roommate has died, leaving Deena with custody of her friend’s baby girl, who shows signs of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Deena loves Willow, and wants more than anything to be her mother. But she’s also at the end of her rope. She was barely scraping by financially when she was sharing the apartment, but now that she’s on her own and responsible for a baby who needs extra care, she knows that she doesn’t have the resources to get Willow the help she needs. And that’s just not good enough for little Willow.
Deena sees only one option – to take Willow to her sperm donor and hope that the rich entrepreneur will provide the child support he didn’t know he was responsible for. But Luis Dominguez, once he accepts that Willow is incontrovertibly his, has no plans to pay Deena to make the baby and her caregiver go away.
He intends to be Willow’s father – and he’s willing to cajole or connive in order to make that happen. With all the best intentions – because he’s that kind of Type-A steamroller who believes he always knows best.
His plan is to buy the old, dilapidated bookstore on Teaberry Island, the place where he grew up and where his family still lives, and pay Deena an exorbitant amount of money to manage the bookstore and take care of his daughter – with the able and conveniently nearby assistance of his mother, his two brothers and their wives. His plan keeps Deena with him, gives him something to do on Teaberry Island, and most importantly, gives him time to be a real father to his little girl. All he has to do is tear himself away from his high stakes, high pressure, big time consulting firm in DC.
That his plan to open a door for Willow, Deena and himself runs headlong into Carol’s plan to reopen that same dilapidated bookstore that her family still owns isn’t even on his radar – and he wouldn’t care if it was and doesn’t care when he finds out.
But Teaberry Island is a small town, and everybody pitches in to get the bookstore open again under Luis’ plan for Deena. Except for Carol and her new-found friends, who have plans to take things in an entirely different situation.
Let the games begin!
Escape Rating B: At first it seems as if Carol – along with her friends – is being set up as the villain of this story. Which is entirely unfair, as she’s in every bit as big of a mess when the story begins as Deena is.
But the “A” plot in The Beach Reads Bookshop is Deena’s slow-burn romance with Luis and their pretty inevitable shift from being strangers to becoming a family. It’s cute and it’s sweet and they each have some lessons to learn along the way – but where they’re going to end up is obvious from the beginning so it’s not exactly a surprise when they get there.
Carol’s story, that “B” plot, on the other hand, had a few more twists and turns. (It also went into one nasty corner that I’ll get to in a minute). Carol is the character who is doing a lot of that “regretting the closed door” at least at the beginning, that the quote is talking about. It’s not just that she misses her job and is mourning the end of her marriage, but she’s looking back even further, all the way back to when her grandfather owned the bookstore and the world was just a bit different.
But her sister sold the bookstore out from under her before she even knew Carol wanted it. Which is the point where Carol barged into Deena’s life.
At first it’s that long ago nostalgia that Carol is really trying to recapture – no matter how badly she goes about it. And no matter how much trouble it gets her into. It’s only as she embraces the new life she’s creating on Teaberry Island that her situation really gets interesting – even as it nearly takes a sharp left turn into “grand theft bookstore”.
Once she starts looking forward instead of back she realizes what a fantastic opportunity all of the doors that slammed behind her really were. And while it wasn’t a surprise that her soon-to-be-ex tried – badly – to get her back, it was great that she did not let herself get sucked back into that boring, unfulfilled and unsatisfactory life.
That her journey brings her around to a point where she and Deena are running that bookstore together – and enjoying it and each other’s company – brought everything full circle and tied the story up with a pretty – and somewhat unexpected – bow.
Reviewer’s Note: There was one fly in the sweet-smelling potpourri of this story, at least for this reader, that lies in the way the conflict over the bookstore played out. As ironic as this may sound, in the beginning, both Carol and the local librarian indulged in more than a bit of reader-shaming over the idea that the bookstore would focus on light, fluffy, “beach read” type books. There is a debate, even in library circles, over the question of whether libraries should push people to read “better” books, or if it’s just terrific that people are reading and enjoying it no matter what they choose to read. It’s a debate that was resolved long ago in favor of being happy that people are reading and that it is REALLY bad karma to shame people for what they read. So it left a really bad taste in this reader’s – and librarian’s – to see that debate played out in a rather snide fashion in the earlier parts of this book, especially the way the local librarian was reader-shaming her own patrons. Your reading mileage, of course, may vary. But I hope that whatever you read and love, that we all stop trying to shame other readers for their choices.
Originally published at Reading Reality
April 8, 2023
As a reader, it's a wonderful thing when I find a fictional world I can return to again and again. This small island on the Chesapeake Bay is a warm inviting world and a small beach community with quirks and charm that I wish I could live in. This talented storyteller has a way of bringing this place alive so that reading is a visceral experience rather than a passive activity.
Billionaire Luis Dominguez is the last of Betty Raines' foster sons to return to Teaberry Island. He's been too busy working and inflating his bank account to give much thought to the place that shaped the man he is today. But when Deena Clark shows up at his office with her deceased best friend's two-year-old who is Luis's daughter, he realizes his life will never be the same.
Deena fully intends to honor her friend's wishes and care for little Willow, but that requires some adjustments like quitting her second job at her favorite bookstore. When financial struggles drive her to reach out to Luis, the next thing she knows, Luis wants Deena and Willow to move to Teaberry Island. To sweeten the deal, he buys the town's old bookstore, sight unseen, offering Deena her dream job of running the bookstore, as well as being Willow's nanny.
This sweet, heartwarming story of trust, healing, and redemption is my favorite kind of romance read. Luis and Deena are authentic, endearing, and complex, and I loved watching them learn, change, grow into their best version of self on their road to forever. Although the trilogy about three foster brothers is complete, I’m hoping we'll get to return to Teaberry Island. There are other endearing characters I’d love to see find their HEA. In the meantime, make sure you don’t miss this wholesome, heartfelt, phenomenal read!
Billionaire Luis Dominguez is the last of Betty Raines' foster sons to return to Teaberry Island. He's been too busy working and inflating his bank account to give much thought to the place that shaped the man he is today. But when Deena Clark shows up at his office with her deceased best friend's two-year-old who is Luis's daughter, he realizes his life will never be the same.
Deena fully intends to honor her friend's wishes and care for little Willow, but that requires some adjustments like quitting her second job at her favorite bookstore. When financial struggles drive her to reach out to Luis, the next thing she knows, Luis wants Deena and Willow to move to Teaberry Island. To sweeten the deal, he buys the town's old bookstore, sight unseen, offering Deena her dream job of running the bookstore, as well as being Willow's nanny.
This sweet, heartwarming story of trust, healing, and redemption is my favorite kind of romance read. Luis and Deena are authentic, endearing, and complex, and I loved watching them learn, change, grow into their best version of self on their road to forever. Although the trilogy about three foster brothers is complete, I’m hoping we'll get to return to Teaberry Island. There are other endearing characters I’d love to see find their HEA. In the meantime, make sure you don’t miss this wholesome, heartfelt, phenomenal read!
August 3, 2023
There were a lot of things about this book that rubbed me the wrong way:
- Carol being childish the first entire half of the book. It was grating, but I am happy that she stood up for herself in the end and told Roger to shove it.
- Everyone excusing Luis and his behavior because he's "important". Ewe. Gross. Ick. Just because someone has money and a high status job doesn't mean they can get away with everything.
- THEM GETTING MARRIED?? WHEN THEY DIDN'T EVEN DATE?? HELLO?? Their relationship should've been developed WAY more than it was. Instead of having Carol and her boring classics club or whatever they were, the author should've focused on giving the two MCs a reason to get together. They suddenly fell in love just because? How lame.
Overall, the book disappointed me, and the previous book was way more gripping.
- Carol being childish the first entire half of the book. It was grating, but I am happy that she stood up for herself in the end and told Roger to shove it.
- Everyone excusing Luis and his behavior because he's "important". Ewe. Gross. Ick. Just because someone has money and a high status job doesn't mean they can get away with everything.
- THEM GETTING MARRIED?? WHEN THEY DIDN'T EVEN DATE?? HELLO?? Their relationship should've been developed WAY more than it was. Instead of having Carol and her boring classics club or whatever they were, the author should've focused on giving the two MCs a reason to get together. They suddenly fell in love just because? How lame.
Overall, the book disappointed me, and the previous book was way more gripping.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2022
The Beach Reads Bookshop is a solid beach read choice for book lovers and romance fans alike. When Deena suddenly becomes responsible for her best friend's FAS impacted daughter, her dream of ever managing a bookstore is pushed aside. Enter the baby's billionaire businessman father. The two bond over books and a little girl, ultimately leading them to open their hearts to each other. The beautiful setting and feel good romance make this book a nice escape from the real world. If you're looking for a sweet love story with a bookish twist, The Beach Reads Bookshop is the perfect choice.
August 21, 2023
i’m so glad it’s over
April 22, 2023
It's a perfect read if you want to relax and escape to a small island and enjoy a sweet romance.
A well plotted story with a cast of interesting characters, second chances and finding what you really want.
I enjoyed Luis and Deena's story and how they evolve.
Deena ia well plotted and strong character, ready to change for love of a child and finding happiness.
Carol is a woman who is being mistreated by life as she lost her job and discovered that her husband wanted to divorce in the same week. I can say she was very lucky to divorce as the husband was an old guy who was faking illness.
The plot is well developed and flows keeping you turning pages.
It's a bit predictable but I loved the island and enjoyed the story.
Recommended.
Many thanks to HQN for this arc, all opinions are mine
A well plotted story with a cast of interesting characters, second chances and finding what you really want.
I enjoyed Luis and Deena's story and how they evolve.
Deena ia well plotted and strong character, ready to change for love of a child and finding happiness.
Carol is a woman who is being mistreated by life as she lost her job and discovered that her husband wanted to divorce in the same week. I can say she was very lucky to divorce as the husband was an old guy who was faking illness.
The plot is well developed and flows keeping you turning pages.
It's a bit predictable but I loved the island and enjoyed the story.
Recommended.
Many thanks to HQN for this arc, all opinions are mine
August 31, 2023
The problems I had with this story are likely based on my own expectations more than what is actually in the book.
Pros:
The concept is great and I love that the concern about what a Beach Read can be is discussed.
Cons:
Picking up this book I was expecting something like Nora Roberts with her Chesapeake Bay series or Three Sisters island. I didn’t find the small island charm with loving characters. Most of the people were awful to someone else in some way and it was very depressing. I was looking forward to seeing the process of bringing the bookstore back to life piece by piece but Luis just threw money at it and it worked.
While I agree with Carol not going back it felt cheap to resolve her hurts and Deena’s in roughly 20 pages so that the other 310 felt purely like unnecessary drama.
Pros:
The concept is great and I love that the concern about what a Beach Read can be is discussed.
Cons:
Picking up this book I was expecting something like Nora Roberts with her Chesapeake Bay series or Three Sisters island. I didn’t find the small island charm with loving characters. Most of the people were awful to someone else in some way and it was very depressing. I was looking forward to seeing the process of bringing the bookstore back to life piece by piece but Luis just threw money at it and it worked.
While I agree with Carol not going back it felt cheap to resolve her hurts and Deena’s in roughly 20 pages so that the other 310 felt purely like unnecessary drama.
July 24, 2023
Borrowed from the library
Cute beginning, and I didn't realize it was a series, but it didn't matter. I liked the background of Luis's character, and Deena being so involved in raising her friend's baby.
But the Carol storyline seemed super unrelated, and I did not like that character. Tbh, I skimmed a lot of the middle and end because I became un-invested in the story.
Cute beginning, and I didn't realize it was a series, but it didn't matter. I liked the background of Luis's character, and Deena being so involved in raising her friend's baby.
But the Carol storyline seemed super unrelated, and I did not like that character. Tbh, I skimmed a lot of the middle and end because I became un-invested in the story.
April 3, 2023
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
The Beach Reads Bookshop is cute beach read. I saved this book to take to take to the beach with me. It turned out to be a great idea. This was a quick and cute book. Deena Clark is raising her best friend's kid after her death but she needs help. She reaches out the girls billionaire dad to help pay the bills except he wants to be dad to the little girl he never knew existed. Deena isn't going to leave her little girl behind so she agrees to work as her nanny and run the bookstore Luis offered her. This was a cute read but the librarian drove me nuts. She was mean and wanted to stop people from buying books? That was the only problem I had with this story otherwise it was a cute little read.
3.5 stars
The Beach Reads Bookshop is cute beach read. I saved this book to take to take to the beach with me. It turned out to be a great idea. This was a quick and cute book. Deena Clark is raising her best friend's kid after her death but she needs help. She reaches out the girls billionaire dad to help pay the bills except he wants to be dad to the little girl he never knew existed. Deena isn't going to leave her little girl behind so she agrees to work as her nanny and run the bookstore Luis offered her. This was a cute read but the librarian drove me nuts. She was mean and wanted to stop people from buying books? That was the only problem I had with this story otherwise it was a cute little read.
July 9, 2023
This was a sweet story. I guess there are two more in the series, but I started reading this as a standalone and I had no problems jumping right in.
This story is about Luis, a self-made millionaire and Deena Clark, the caregiver of his toddler age daughter Willow. Willow is the product of a short lived fling, but when her free-spirited mother passes away in an accident, Deena, her roommate and best friend is left with the care of Willow. Deena seeks Luis out in the hopes he can support Willow financially, and instead he moves both of them to his family home on Teaberry Island.
I enjoyed this book and the characters, but some of the sub -plots were not interesting to me. Also, I felt that the story was slow to come to its conclusion but then in the span of a few pages was over.
I would recommend to someone looking for a lighthearted summer read.
This story is about Luis, a self-made millionaire and Deena Clark, the caregiver of his toddler age daughter Willow. Willow is the product of a short lived fling, but when her free-spirited mother passes away in an accident, Deena, her roommate and best friend is left with the care of Willow. Deena seeks Luis out in the hopes he can support Willow financially, and instead he moves both of them to his family home on Teaberry Island.
I enjoyed this book and the characters, but some of the sub -plots were not interesting to me. Also, I felt that the story was slow to come to its conclusion but then in the span of a few pages was over.
I would recommend to someone looking for a lighthearted summer read.
April 27, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop is the third book in the Hometown Brothers series. Each book in the series focuses on one of the foster brothers, and as such it could certainly be read as a standalone. However, you'll definitely find a few spoilers from previous books if read out of order (and it's a great series so I'd definitely recommend the other books too!)
I loved how this story started out. It focussed on the history and the life of the bookshop, which really made it such an important aspect of the story more than just a setting. It was unique and drew me into the story. This book focuses on Luis... who let's just be honest, made a lot of bad decisions throughout this story. Still, it was through those decisions that we really got to see his growth throughout, which was great. There was a side story with Carol, the granddaughter of the bookstore's previous owner that I wasn't a huge fan of at first, but came to appreciate as the story went on. Overall, this was a cute story with small-town charm and found family. I think I personally preferred the other books in the series over this one, but it was still an enjoyable, heartwarming read.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
I loved how this story started out. It focussed on the history and the life of the bookshop, which really made it such an important aspect of the story more than just a setting. It was unique and drew me into the story. This book focuses on Luis... who let's just be honest, made a lot of bad decisions throughout this story. Still, it was through those decisions that we really got to see his growth throughout, which was great. There was a side story with Carol, the granddaughter of the bookstore's previous owner that I wasn't a huge fan of at first, but came to appreciate as the story went on. Overall, this was a cute story with small-town charm and found family. I think I personally preferred the other books in the series over this one, but it was still an enjoyable, heartwarming read.
**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.
April 15, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain is the final book in the Hometown Brothers trilogy. This is Luis Dominguez’s story.
Luis Dominguez is a former foster child, now a wealthy businessman. Deena Clark is a harried young woman, with a difficult past, caring for her best friend’s child. The two meet precipitously and find it difficult to overcome preconceptions.
Lee Tobin McClain has a unique talent for blending a serious issue into a romantic tale. Here she manages two issues: one women’s, one children’s. Both seamlessly merge into the storyline, adding appropriate depth. She smartly maintains continuity throughout the trilogy and back to her original The Off Season series. All literary aspects are executed with precision for the utmost effect in this uplifting romance. The Beach Reads Bookshop held my attention from start to finish. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of romance.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Luis Dominguez is a former foster child, now a wealthy businessman. Deena Clark is a harried young woman, with a difficult past, caring for her best friend’s child. The two meet precipitously and find it difficult to overcome preconceptions.
Lee Tobin McClain has a unique talent for blending a serious issue into a romantic tale. Here she manages two issues: one women’s, one children’s. Both seamlessly merge into the storyline, adding appropriate depth. She smartly maintains continuity throughout the trilogy and back to her original The Off Season series. All literary aspects are executed with precision for the utmost effect in this uplifting romance. The Beach Reads Bookshop held my attention from start to finish. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of romance.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
September 24, 2023
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
This is the first book I've read by Lee Tobin McClain. Overall, I was impressed. Her characters were written in a way that I felt connected with them- though they were annoying sometimes (like real people!). This is a sweet romance set in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay. It follows the story of Deena and Luis who find themselves connected through Luis' baby daughter Willow- and a bookshop. There is also a secondary story of Carol who is recovering from a divorce and finds herself moving to the same town as Deena and working at her bookshop. This character is a little immature and annoying, but she adds some drama. Overall, this is a story of healing, trust, family, and love. It's a HEA, good beach read! I recommend tossing a copy of The Beach Reads Bookshop in your beach bag!
This is the first book I've read by Lee Tobin McClain. Overall, I was impressed. Her characters were written in a way that I felt connected with them- though they were annoying sometimes (like real people!). This is a sweet romance set in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay. It follows the story of Deena and Luis who find themselves connected through Luis' baby daughter Willow- and a bookshop. There is also a secondary story of Carol who is recovering from a divorce and finds herself moving to the same town as Deena and working at her bookshop. This character is a little immature and annoying, but she adds some drama. Overall, this is a story of healing, trust, family, and love. It's a HEA, good beach read! I recommend tossing a copy of The Beach Reads Bookshop in your beach bag!
May 23, 2023
While I didn’t like this story as much as I liked the other two books in the Hometown Brothers series, it was still a good story. Luis is the workaholic Hometown brother who has made his fortune. One day, Deena walks into his office with a baby, Willow, and tells him he is a father as Willow’s mother has died. Deena would like to see stay in Willow’s life and is hoping to get child support so she can take better care of Willow.
Luis accepts responsibility but he doesn’t really know what to do. Willow has issues which are handled well in the storyline.
The author is becoming one of my favorites too.
Luis accepts responsibility but he doesn’t really know what to do. Willow has issues which are handled well in the storyline.
The author is becoming one of my favorites too.
June 2, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop is a heartfelt romance about found family and learning to open your heart to new possibilities.
Y’all know how much I love a romance book that takes place in or around a bookstore. When I stumbled upon this book on NetGalley, I knew I needed to read it. I hate to admit this, but this wasn’t my most favourite bookish love story to read. It just missed the mark for me. That isn’t to say that this wasn’t a well-written or well-plotted book, but I didn’t connect with the characters, which was disappointing. Let’s start with the positive stuff first. I think fans of the Hometown Brothers series will enjoy its latest installment. But if you are like me and haven’t read the previous books, that is ok. You will still be able to understand what is going on. The author does a great job of bringing readers up to speed with what has happened in the series.
The overall story is interesting and heartfelt. I felt engaged enough with the story and I didn’t find my mind wandering while reading it. A lot that happens in this book would only happen in romance land or for romance reasons, which I was ok with. I don’t read romance books and expect them to be realistic. What I hope for when I read a romance book is to connect with its characters, laugh, swoon, and get that delightful HEA ending. This is a more serious romance book, and while there are a few light and happy moments in this book, the overall tone is more subdued, which I wasn’t expecting. I was anticipating something more fluffy. I was surprised at the depth of the story and loved how the author tackled more serious issues around Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, assault, and infidelity.
My biggest problem with this story was Luis’s character. I usually don’t mind an alpha, bossy male main character because I love watching them come undone by the heroine. But that didn’t happen here. Luis is a hard character to love. His heart is often in the right place, but his actions often come off as insensitive and overbearing. I think what turned me against him was when he threatened to take Willow away from Deena at the beginning of the book. Deena has taken care of Willow since she was born and loved the little girl. I hated the fact that Luis made her feel like she wasn’t doing a good job. I also didn’t love how he bulldozed over Deena when she was trying to run the bookshop. His actions just didn’t sit right with me.
The romance between Deena and Luis has this slight slow-burn feel to it. The physical attraction between these two is there right from the beginning. But they just don’t click for me as a couple. They slowly get to know each other as they take care of Willow and work on opening the bookshop. I wished there were more deeper conversations between them. Maybe that would have helped me see them more as a couple.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
Y’all know how much I love a romance book that takes place in or around a bookstore. When I stumbled upon this book on NetGalley, I knew I needed to read it. I hate to admit this, but this wasn’t my most favourite bookish love story to read. It just missed the mark for me. That isn’t to say that this wasn’t a well-written or well-plotted book, but I didn’t connect with the characters, which was disappointing. Let’s start with the positive stuff first. I think fans of the Hometown Brothers series will enjoy its latest installment. But if you are like me and haven’t read the previous books, that is ok. You will still be able to understand what is going on. The author does a great job of bringing readers up to speed with what has happened in the series.
The overall story is interesting and heartfelt. I felt engaged enough with the story and I didn’t find my mind wandering while reading it. A lot that happens in this book would only happen in romance land or for romance reasons, which I was ok with. I don’t read romance books and expect them to be realistic. What I hope for when I read a romance book is to connect with its characters, laugh, swoon, and get that delightful HEA ending. This is a more serious romance book, and while there are a few light and happy moments in this book, the overall tone is more subdued, which I wasn’t expecting. I was anticipating something more fluffy. I was surprised at the depth of the story and loved how the author tackled more serious issues around Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, assault, and infidelity.
My biggest problem with this story was Luis’s character. I usually don’t mind an alpha, bossy male main character because I love watching them come undone by the heroine. But that didn’t happen here. Luis is a hard character to love. His heart is often in the right place, but his actions often come off as insensitive and overbearing. I think what turned me against him was when he threatened to take Willow away from Deena at the beginning of the book. Deena has taken care of Willow since she was born and loved the little girl. I hated the fact that Luis made her feel like she wasn’t doing a good job. I also didn’t love how he bulldozed over Deena when she was trying to run the bookshop. His actions just didn’t sit right with me.
The romance between Deena and Luis has this slight slow-burn feel to it. The physical attraction between these two is there right from the beginning. But they just don’t click for me as a couple. They slowly get to know each other as they take care of Willow and work on opening the bookshop. I wished there were more deeper conversations between them. Maybe that would have helped me see them more as a couple.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
May 29, 2024
**Review: The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain**
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 out of 5 stars)
Lee Tobin McClain’s *The Beach Reads Bookshop* is a charming, clean meet-cute romance that offers a pleasant escape to a cozy seaside town. With its heartwarming premise and likable characters, it’s a delightful read for fans of light-hearted romantic fiction.
The story follows Lily, a bookshop owner in a quaint beachside community, and Sam, a single dad who moves to town seeking a fresh start. When Sam's daughter becomes enamored with Lily’s bookstore, it sets the stage for a sweet, slow-burn romance between Lily and Sam. Their interactions are filled with endearing moments and gentle humor, capturing the essence of a classic meet-cute.
McClain’s writing is engaging and easy to follow, painting a vivid picture of the beachside setting. The descriptions of the bookshop and the small-town charm create an inviting atmosphere that readers will enjoy immersing themselves in. The clean romance ensures the story is appropriate for all readers, focusing on emotional connection and wholesome interactions.
However, the novel has its limitations. The plot is somewhat predictable, following familiar tropes without offering many surprises. While the predictability isn’t necessarily a drawback for all readers, those looking for a more complex or unconventional storyline might find it lacking.
The characters, though likable, could benefit from deeper development. Lily and Sam’s backstories are touched upon, but not explored in enough depth to fully understand their motivations and growth. Secondary characters add to the charm of the town but are often relegated to stereotypical roles.
Despite these shortcomings, *The Beach Reads Bookshop* succeeds in delivering a feel-good story that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon read. The romance is sweet and sincere, making it an enjoyable book for those who appreciate a clean, heartwarming love story.
In summary, *The Beach Reads Bookshop* by Lee Tobin McClain is a pleasant and cozy romance that offers a gentle escape to a charming seaside town. While it may not break new ground in the genre, it provides a satisfying and wholesome read for fans of clean, meet-cute romances. It earns a neutral three stars for its charming setting and sweet narrative, balanced by its predictable plot and character development.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 out of 5 stars)
Lee Tobin McClain’s *The Beach Reads Bookshop* is a charming, clean meet-cute romance that offers a pleasant escape to a cozy seaside town. With its heartwarming premise and likable characters, it’s a delightful read for fans of light-hearted romantic fiction.
The story follows Lily, a bookshop owner in a quaint beachside community, and Sam, a single dad who moves to town seeking a fresh start. When Sam's daughter becomes enamored with Lily’s bookstore, it sets the stage for a sweet, slow-burn romance between Lily and Sam. Their interactions are filled with endearing moments and gentle humor, capturing the essence of a classic meet-cute.
McClain’s writing is engaging and easy to follow, painting a vivid picture of the beachside setting. The descriptions of the bookshop and the small-town charm create an inviting atmosphere that readers will enjoy immersing themselves in. The clean romance ensures the story is appropriate for all readers, focusing on emotional connection and wholesome interactions.
However, the novel has its limitations. The plot is somewhat predictable, following familiar tropes without offering many surprises. While the predictability isn’t necessarily a drawback for all readers, those looking for a more complex or unconventional storyline might find it lacking.
The characters, though likable, could benefit from deeper development. Lily and Sam’s backstories are touched upon, but not explored in enough depth to fully understand their motivations and growth. Secondary characters add to the charm of the town but are often relegated to stereotypical roles.
Despite these shortcomings, *The Beach Reads Bookshop* succeeds in delivering a feel-good story that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon read. The romance is sweet and sincere, making it an enjoyable book for those who appreciate a clean, heartwarming love story.
In summary, *The Beach Reads Bookshop* by Lee Tobin McClain is a pleasant and cozy romance that offers a gentle escape to a charming seaside town. While it may not break new ground in the genre, it provides a satisfying and wholesome read for fans of clean, meet-cute romances. It earns a neutral three stars for its charming setting and sweet narrative, balanced by its predictable plot and character development.
June 2, 2023
The kind of ‘slice-of-real-life’ mixed with romance that I’ve come to expect from this author. McClain creates enticing settings and intriguing characters and it’s so easy to lose yourself in one of her stories. I’ve really been enjoying the Hometown Brothers series — this is the third book (and the last, I think) but reads well as a standalone. The central theme of the series revolves around foster brothers who find their way back to the Chesapeake island where they bonded together as teens. Edgy back stories and a sense of homecoming feature in each book.
And, egads, this time round it’s also a billionaire romance which is a trope I usually avoid, however, McClain does it justice and for all his misguided ways, Luis was surprisingly relatable. He has a lot of growing to do but then instant fatherhood will do that to a guy. 🙂
Deena has become the guardian of her best friend’s toddler and contacting the wealthy father for child support seems like the best way to provide the special needs resources little Willow is going to need. Trouble is, once Luis discovers he has a daughter, he’s not about to relinquish custody. Deena suddenly finds herself in a whirlwind of activity all instigated by a man who is used to getting what he wants, when he wants it.
And that means a move to Teaberry Island — the best place to raise a child as far as Luis is concerned. Where he’ll have family and friends around for support since his workaholic ways mean he’ll end up being a weekend father. Hence the need to lure Deena to the island as his caregiver.The dangling carrot is her very own bookshop! (Be still my heart, I want a hero who would buy me a bookshop!)
Of course the romance is complicated, and not without angst and there’s a secondary plot involving a woman I really disliked for most of the book. lol Every time we switched to Carol’s POV I had to brace myself. Thankfully she mellowed by the end.
A captivating conclusion to the Hometown Brothers series. I’ll be sad to leave Teaberry Island — it’s definitely a place I’d want to live if it wasn’t fictional!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/06/02/t...
And, egads, this time round it’s also a billionaire romance which is a trope I usually avoid, however, McClain does it justice and for all his misguided ways, Luis was surprisingly relatable. He has a lot of growing to do but then instant fatherhood will do that to a guy. 🙂
Deena has become the guardian of her best friend’s toddler and contacting the wealthy father for child support seems like the best way to provide the special needs resources little Willow is going to need. Trouble is, once Luis discovers he has a daughter, he’s not about to relinquish custody. Deena suddenly finds herself in a whirlwind of activity all instigated by a man who is used to getting what he wants, when he wants it.
And that means a move to Teaberry Island — the best place to raise a child as far as Luis is concerned. Where he’ll have family and friends around for support since his workaholic ways mean he’ll end up being a weekend father. Hence the need to lure Deena to the island as his caregiver.The dangling carrot is her very own bookshop! (Be still my heart, I want a hero who would buy me a bookshop!)
Of course the romance is complicated, and not without angst and there’s a secondary plot involving a woman I really disliked for most of the book. lol Every time we switched to Carol’s POV I had to brace myself. Thankfully she mellowed by the end.
A captivating conclusion to the Hometown Brothers series. I’ll be sad to leave Teaberry Island — it’s definitely a place I’d want to live if it wasn’t fictional!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2023/06/02/t...
April 25, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain
Running a bookstore on a quaint Chesapeake island is exactly the life Deena Clark would have chosen for herself. But helping billionaire businessman Luis Dominguez figure out fatherhood is part of the package. Can bonding over books an one little girl help them open their hearts to each other?
This is Carol Fisher's story.
This is Deena Clark and Willow's story.
This is Luis Dominguez and Willow's story.
CAROL FISHER SMILED reassuringly at the lanky college student now packing up his textbooks. “You did really well today. You’ll handle the class fine as long as you come back to the tutoring center a couple of times a week.”
“I will, Ms. Fisher. Thanks.” He smiled and waved and walked off.
Carol was gratified to see that his shoulders were straight, his walk brisk. A complete contrast to the way he’d come in, slow and slumped and discouraged.
“Excuse me, Mr. Dominguez?” A gorgeous blonde woman came out of the reception area and intercepted him. She was holding a toddler dressed in pink, a bow in her dark curls. Cute. Luis liked babies. He reached out and tickled the little one’s chin, clicking his tongue, and the child giggled.
“Can I speak to you for a moment, sir?” the woman asked.
The offices of Dominguez Enterprises buzzed with energy, people leaning over computers, the elevator pinging, voices speaking rapidly into phones. This was Luis’s hobby. This was his family. He was on track to reach his financial goals by age forty,but his lifestyle didn’t leave room for coaching Little League or cutting the grass.
I recommend reading.
The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lee Tobin McClain.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hometown Brothers
Book 1: The Forever Farmhouse
Book 2: The Bluebird Bakery
Book 3: The Beach Reads Bookshop
Running a bookstore on a quaint Chesapeake island is exactly the life Deena Clark would have chosen for herself. But helping billionaire businessman Luis Dominguez figure out fatherhood is part of the package. Can bonding over books an one little girl help them open their hearts to each other?
This is Carol Fisher's story.
This is Deena Clark and Willow's story.
This is Luis Dominguez and Willow's story.
CAROL FISHER SMILED reassuringly at the lanky college student now packing up his textbooks. “You did really well today. You’ll handle the class fine as long as you come back to the tutoring center a couple of times a week.”
“I will, Ms. Fisher. Thanks.” He smiled and waved and walked off.
Carol was gratified to see that his shoulders were straight, his walk brisk. A complete contrast to the way he’d come in, slow and slumped and discouraged.
“Excuse me, Mr. Dominguez?” A gorgeous blonde woman came out of the reception area and intercepted him. She was holding a toddler dressed in pink, a bow in her dark curls. Cute. Luis liked babies. He reached out and tickled the little one’s chin, clicking his tongue, and the child giggled.
“Can I speak to you for a moment, sir?” the woman asked.
The offices of Dominguez Enterprises buzzed with energy, people leaning over computers, the elevator pinging, voices speaking rapidly into phones. This was Luis’s hobby. This was his family. He was on track to reach his financial goals by age forty,but his lifestyle didn’t leave room for coaching Little League or cutting the grass.
I recommend reading.
The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lee Tobin McClain.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hometown Brothers
Book 1: The Forever Farmhouse
Book 2: The Bluebird Bakery
Book 3: The Beach Reads Bookshop
December 11, 2023
Didn't connect with the characters at all... The author explained how intense their longing for each other was but didn't actually show it. The whole set up with two separate storylines was weird and disjointed in my opinion. I think the book would be improved (and have more time to show the relationship instead of write that they were falling in love) if Carol's storyline was integrated into Deena's or taken out entirely.
Money apparently solves all of the FMC's problems in this book. Open a bookstore in the old failed one? Throw enough money at it and it's a thriving business. Disgruntled and disrespectful employee? Pay them more after a 10 minute conversation and it's fine. The woman you love doesn't like how little time you spend with your toddler? Pay her extra because she's also your babysitter! Trouble communicating with the person you love? Sell your multimillion dollar business without communicating! Simple as that.
The main conflict of the book is that the MMC is too busy and doesn't spend enough time with his daughter. So he quits his job and sells his super successful company. He does this without communicating with the FMC (the caretaker of his child) at all. Then he ends up starting a nonprofit (cool I guess) and doing consulting work (also without communicating with the FMC at all). But how much time would that leave him to spend with his daughter? Hmm...
Skip. There's so much repetition and rehashing of the issues, then everything perfectly wraps up in like 20 pages. It felt cheap and unsatisfying.
Money apparently solves all of the FMC's problems in this book. Open a bookstore in the old failed one? Throw enough money at it and it's a thriving business. Disgruntled and disrespectful employee? Pay them more after a 10 minute conversation and it's fine. The woman you love doesn't like how little time you spend with your toddler? Pay her extra because she's also your babysitter! Trouble communicating with the person you love? Sell your multimillion dollar business without communicating! Simple as that.
The main conflict of the book is that the MMC is too busy and doesn't spend enough time with his daughter. So he quits his job and sells his super successful company. He does this without communicating with the FMC (the caretaker of his child) at all. Then he ends up starting a nonprofit (cool I guess) and doing consulting work (also without communicating with the FMC at all). But how much time would that leave him to spend with his daughter? Hmm...
Skip. There's so much repetition and rehashing of the issues, then everything perfectly wraps up in like 20 pages. It felt cheap and unsatisfying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2023
The Beach Reads Bookshop by Lee Tobin McClain is book #3 in the Hometown Brothers series. This is the third "foster" brother, Luis Dominguez's story. I liked him even though he had some security issues to work through. He's made a fortune but still is kind and caring and a wonderful, supportive brother. The female lead is Deena Clark. She is caring and a go-getter but has her issues to work through too. Luis offers to let her run the bookstore he purchases on Teaberry Island. They find themselves attracted to each other and have the common goal of parenting a two-year-old little girl. I really enjoyed this part of the story. The storyline also includes Carol who loses her job and husband at the same time. She returns to the family home on the island and ends up working at the bookstore, the bookstore her grandfather opened up and which was left neglected after the grandfather's death. Carol and a few of her friends don't like the beach reads theme and want the bookstore to be more about the classics and island history like how Carol's grandfather ran the store. I didn't like this part of the story, but I liked how it was resolved.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
July 27, 2025
Life’s Changes
Deena & Tammalee were friends. Tammalee had a baby, Willow. Tammalee died asking Deena to raise Willow for her; she also told Deena the father’s name. Deena lived in Washington, D.C. & she decided to go & meet with Luis to ask him for money to support Willow. She was surprised that he chose to help raise Willow. He wanted both Deena & Willow to move to Teaberry Island & stay with the foster mom (Betty) who had raised him. He had planned on going to work in Seattle during the week & come home to Betty’s to spend time with Willow. Luis became worried that Deena may choose to leave the island so he offered to build a bookstore on the island & have her run it.
Carol had been tutoring college students on-campus. She was married to Roger who was disabled. Carol got fired from the college because she did not like computer programs for tutoring. She walked into her home to find Roger & his nurse having an affair. Carol’s sister,Mary Beth & her son lived on Teaberry Island & Carol went there.
Deena hired Carol as an employee in the bookstore. The good story continues from there! To find out more, you will have to read “The Beach Reads Bookshop”.
Deena & Tammalee were friends. Tammalee had a baby, Willow. Tammalee died asking Deena to raise Willow for her; she also told Deena the father’s name. Deena lived in Washington, D.C. & she decided to go & meet with Luis to ask him for money to support Willow. She was surprised that he chose to help raise Willow. He wanted both Deena & Willow to move to Teaberry Island & stay with the foster mom (Betty) who had raised him. He had planned on going to work in Seattle during the week & come home to Betty’s to spend time with Willow. Luis became worried that Deena may choose to leave the island so he offered to build a bookstore on the island & have her run it.
Carol had been tutoring college students on-campus. She was married to Roger who was disabled. Carol got fired from the college because she did not like computer programs for tutoring. She walked into her home to find Roger & his nurse having an affair. Carol’s sister,Mary Beth & her son lived on Teaberry Island & Carol went there.
Deena hired Carol as an employee in the bookstore. The good story continues from there! To find out more, you will have to read “The Beach Reads Bookshop”.
April 29, 2023
Deena Clark made a promise to her best friend, Tammalee, that she would always be there for her daughter, Willow. Tammalee died unexpectedly and Deena is struggling trying to keep up. She comes up with a plan to speak to Willow’s father, Luis. The only problem with that is Luis doesn’t know that he is a father and of course, doesn’t believe Deena. Oh yeah, here we go. After a bit of time Luis comes to realize that the best thing he can do for his daughter is to move her to where he was the happiest, Teaberry Island. Now he just needs to convince Deena to move there with Willow and be her nanny. THE BEACH READS BOOKSHOP is the perfect way to spend the afternoon relaxing with caring people who only want to help each other.
THE BEACH READS BOOKSHOP is filled with struggling with the choices we have to make and once you start reading, it will be impossible to put down. The story also deals with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which is something I didn’t know too much about. Keep the tissues close by because this will be one heck of an emotional journey. Will Deena and Luis ever overcome their grief and their differences and be happy once again? Lee Tobin McClain does a wonderful job of teaching the reader what Deena, Luis, and Willow are going through. Ms. McClain really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.
I totally enjoyed THE BEACH READS BOOKSHOP. I just wanted to continue reading about these wonderful people. I’m going to try and squeeze in the second book of this series ASAP. I read the first book but somehow missed the second one. I have to return to Chesapeake very soon. Lee Tobin McClain is such a wonderful author and I love how her stories make it seem as if she is writing just for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin through Netgalley . All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given
THE BEACH READS BOOKSHOP is filled with struggling with the choices we have to make and once you start reading, it will be impossible to put down. The story also deals with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which is something I didn’t know too much about. Keep the tissues close by because this will be one heck of an emotional journey. Will Deena and Luis ever overcome their grief and their differences and be happy once again? Lee Tobin McClain does a wonderful job of teaching the reader what Deena, Luis, and Willow are going through. Ms. McClain really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author.
I totally enjoyed THE BEACH READS BOOKSHOP. I just wanted to continue reading about these wonderful people. I’m going to try and squeeze in the second book of this series ASAP. I read the first book but somehow missed the second one. I have to return to Chesapeake very soon. Lee Tobin McClain is such a wonderful author and I love how her stories make it seem as if she is writing just for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin through Netgalley . All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given
May 30, 2023
This is the third book in the Hometown Brothers series but can easily be read as a stand-alone. Luis is the youngest of the three foster brothers who spent their teenage years in a stable home on Teaberry Island. Luis has long had the gift of making money and is now head of his own company, his life revolving around work with no time for a wife and children. The handsome, driven Luis finds his world shaken up when he is confronted with the fact he is the father of a toddler daughter whose mother recently died. Willow's mother had been a roommate of Deena, so Deena has been involved in Willow's care since birth and loves her dearly. Luis is a take charge kind of guy so of course he has a plan. The description of Teaberry Island makes it sound like an idyllic place. I enjoyed reading The Beach Reads Bookshop.
June 10, 2023
Last of the Hometown Brothers series, in which Luis Dominguez is forced by illness to reevaluate his life and concludes that he needs to move back to the island where his brothers live. Also there is Deena Clark, the caregiver of a baby that Luis never knew he fathered. But Luis needs Deena's help and convinces her to come with him to the island by offering to open a bookstore that she will run, a job she has always wanted.
Trouble is Deena also wants a family, but she can't seem to get over her distrust of men to allow her to consider that Luis, now that he's decided to be the best kind of father to his toddler, might be the man for her.
Luis, too, has issues that his two foster brothers have already overcome. But can he?
Trouble is Deena also wants a family, but she can't seem to get over her distrust of men to allow her to consider that Luis, now that he's decided to be the best kind of father to his toddler, might be the man for her.
Luis, too, has issues that his two foster brothers have already overcome. But can he?
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