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Out of the Blue
From the USA Today bestselling author of The Magic of Sea Glass, with over one million copies of her books sold, comes a heartwarming beach read, perfect for fans of Sheila Roberts, Jill Shalvis, and Debbie Macomber.
High school guidance counselor Nora Jenkins has her hands full. Her new student, Ivy Ryman, has been wreaking havoc at Oakland High and has occupied all of Nora’s work hours. With his busy schedule, music producer Blaze Ryman can’t get a handle on his daughter. But Nora has a soft spot for the girl who’s lost her mother and is now living with her mega-famous father.
When summer break finally arrives, Nora packs up and heads for the turquoise Gulf Coast to soak in the sparkling surf and sip on cocktails until she falls asleep, wrapped in sunlight on the warm beach.
She’s just about to get her wish. Until Ivy and her father unexpectedly show up at her beachfront doorstep.
An uplifting summer escape that will have you believing that love can conquer anything. If you enjoyed the TV movies based on Jenny’s books and want more feel-good summer romance, look no further!
High school guidance counselor Nora Jenkins has her hands full. Her new student, Ivy Ryman, has been wreaking havoc at Oakland High and has occupied all of Nora’s work hours. With his busy schedule, music producer Blaze Ryman can’t get a handle on his daughter. But Nora has a soft spot for the girl who’s lost her mother and is now living with her mega-famous father.
When summer break finally arrives, Nora packs up and heads for the turquoise Gulf Coast to soak in the sparkling surf and sip on cocktails until she falls asleep, wrapped in sunlight on the warm beach.
She’s just about to get her wish. Until Ivy and her father unexpectedly show up at her beachfront doorstep.
An uplifting summer escape that will have you believing that love can conquer anything. If you enjoyed the TV movies based on Jenny’s books and want more feel-good summer romance, look no further!
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
693 people are currently reading
2573 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Hale
33 books1,969 followersJenny Hale is a USA Today, Amazon, and international bestselling author of romantic contemporary fiction. Her books have sold worldwide, have been translated into multiple languages, and adapted for television. Her novels Coming Home for Christmas and Movie Guide Epiphany Award winner Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses are Hallmark Channel original movies.
She was included in Oprah Magazine’s “19 Dreamy Summer Romances to Whisk You Away” and Southern Living’s “30 Christmas Novels to Start Reading Now.” Her stories are chock-full of feel-good romance and overflowing with warm settings, great friends, and family.
Jenny is at work on her next novel, delighted to be bringing even more heartwarming stories to her readers. When she isn’t writing, or heading up her romantic fiction imprint Harpeth Road, she can be found running around her hometown of Nashville with her husband, two boys, and their labradoodle, taking pictures—her favorite pastime.
Visit www.itsjennyhale.com to get my latest book! You can also chat with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jennyhaleauthor, Twitter: www.twitter.com/jhaleauthor, and IG: www.instagram.com/jhaleauthor
See all my books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jenny-Hale/e/B...
She was included in Oprah Magazine’s “19 Dreamy Summer Romances to Whisk You Away” and Southern Living’s “30 Christmas Novels to Start Reading Now.” Her stories are chock-full of feel-good romance and overflowing with warm settings, great friends, and family.
Jenny is at work on her next novel, delighted to be bringing even more heartwarming stories to her readers. When she isn’t writing, or heading up her romantic fiction imprint Harpeth Road, she can be found running around her hometown of Nashville with her husband, two boys, and their labradoodle, taking pictures—her favorite pastime.
Visit www.itsjennyhale.com to get my latest book! You can also chat with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jennyhaleauthor, Twitter: www.twitter.com/jhaleauthor, and IG: www.instagram.com/jhaleauthor
See all my books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jenny-Hale/e/B...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
April 23, 2025
Out Of The Blue written by Jenny Hale was a deeply emotional and inspiring beachy read. Jenny has become an auto buy author for me, I have read so many of her Christmas book and absolutely love them all, I have only read a few of her beach reads, but I definitely need to read more of them. Out Of The Blue is the type of book that should be in your beach bag or on your kindle for a day tanning in the sun at the beach or the pool. As always Jenny Hale is the QUEEN of happily ever afters and this one is no exception. If you haven't read a book by this author before, please go do yourself a favor and add every single one of her books to your to be read list, or even better, mark your calendars for April 29th, 2025 because this book better be a part of your summer reading. Jenny's words and writing style are so poetically pleasing. A few tears were shed along the way, but from page to page, I just couldn't stop smiling, I had the biggest smile on my face throughout the entire book, it was just THAT good. If you haven't added this book to your to be read list, please go do so right now, like actually run right now or I will haunt you until I see this book on every single person's lists. My cheeks literally hurt from cheesin' so much, I couldn't help but kick my feet up in the air and smile. When I first saw that beautiful beach cover, I knew I had to get my hands on a copy of this book immediately, and I'm so thankful I had the chance to read it early because I loved every single minute of it.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND BOOKS GO SOCIAL FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
"💗💐I want you to know there are people in your corner. If you focus on those who lift you up, and let everything else fall away, life will get easier💗💐".
"😭💝Having someone to help you work through your emotions can be beneficial in your healing process😭💝".
"💅👯If you want an old woman's opinion, you need to let go of the rules you set for yourself💅👯".
"💪💯In our limited time on this earth, we will have lots of battles, and we will have to choose which ones are worth the fight💪💯".
"💮🍭No life ever changed for the better by taking the easy way out💮🍭".
Nora Jenkins is a high school guidance counselor and she has her hands full with a new student. Nora lost her parents in a car accident when she was in her twenties, so she became a counselor to help other student navigate their own grief. Nora has a master's degree in counseling so she can help other kids live better lives while they try to live their daily lives as they are struggling. Nora holds a dual license for private and school counseling, but she feels like she makes the most impacts working with students. Nora has three weeks until summer vacation until she can spend two weeks along the Golf Coast. Nora has never been to the beach before, but this time she's renting a gorgeous beach bungalow with her Gram. Nora and her Gram are so excited for the white sandy beach, turquoise water, and beautiful palm trees. Blaze Ryman is a famous music producer that works between Nashville, New York, and Los Angeles, so he's hardly ever home and now he's an absent father in his daughter Ivy's life. Blaze always seems so sure of himself like he's better than everyone else because he has money and he's famous, he's almost superior or self important. When Ivy first started at this new school, it was hard for the school to get in contact with Blaze because he never answered his phone, but he was always posting on social media. Blaze is also known as "Nashville Magazine's Most Eligible Bachelor.
Ivy Ryman is a seventeen year old senior at Oakland High School. Ivy isn't your average high school student, she has black lined lips and pink hair which was her mom's favorite color, and of course she gets bullied for it because high school kids are just mean. Ivy's mom, Candace died during a routine knee surgery procedure. Before living with her father, Ivy lived exclusively with her mom in Alabama where she was kicked out of two private schools. Ivy enrolled at Oakland High with only two months before the end of the school year. Ivy is an unruly student, she ran off the premises twice, skipped more classes than anyone could fathom, rumored Ivy had jammed the locks on a bunch of lockers but there's no proof she even did it. Ivy goes home to an empty house everyday because of her famous father. Ivy hadn't fully dealt with the grief of losing her mother before starting a new school. Ivy craves emotional acceptance, and she feels invisible. Throughout the book, Ivy has found a deep connection to Nora and their shared grief of both of them losing their parents. As the book goes on, Ivy makes progress when she works with Nora, she starts going to class and scoring high on her tests. During summer vacation, Ivy and Blaze turn up at Nora and her Gram's beach bungalow, but you will need to read this book to find out those details and fun memories. My heart broke for Ivy, she was just trying to navigate her grief, meanwhile kids bullied her because of her pink hair.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND BOOKS GO SOCIAL FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
"💗💐I want you to know there are people in your corner. If you focus on those who lift you up, and let everything else fall away, life will get easier💗💐".
"😭💝Having someone to help you work through your emotions can be beneficial in your healing process😭💝".
"💅👯If you want an old woman's opinion, you need to let go of the rules you set for yourself💅👯".
"💪💯In our limited time on this earth, we will have lots of battles, and we will have to choose which ones are worth the fight💪💯".
"💮🍭No life ever changed for the better by taking the easy way out💮🍭".
Nora Jenkins is a high school guidance counselor and she has her hands full with a new student. Nora lost her parents in a car accident when she was in her twenties, so she became a counselor to help other student navigate their own grief. Nora has a master's degree in counseling so she can help other kids live better lives while they try to live their daily lives as they are struggling. Nora holds a dual license for private and school counseling, but she feels like she makes the most impacts working with students. Nora has three weeks until summer vacation until she can spend two weeks along the Golf Coast. Nora has never been to the beach before, but this time she's renting a gorgeous beach bungalow with her Gram. Nora and her Gram are so excited for the white sandy beach, turquoise water, and beautiful palm trees. Blaze Ryman is a famous music producer that works between Nashville, New York, and Los Angeles, so he's hardly ever home and now he's an absent father in his daughter Ivy's life. Blaze always seems so sure of himself like he's better than everyone else because he has money and he's famous, he's almost superior or self important. When Ivy first started at this new school, it was hard for the school to get in contact with Blaze because he never answered his phone, but he was always posting on social media. Blaze is also known as "Nashville Magazine's Most Eligible Bachelor.
Ivy Ryman is a seventeen year old senior at Oakland High School. Ivy isn't your average high school student, she has black lined lips and pink hair which was her mom's favorite color, and of course she gets bullied for it because high school kids are just mean. Ivy's mom, Candace died during a routine knee surgery procedure. Before living with her father, Ivy lived exclusively with her mom in Alabama where she was kicked out of two private schools. Ivy enrolled at Oakland High with only two months before the end of the school year. Ivy is an unruly student, she ran off the premises twice, skipped more classes than anyone could fathom, rumored Ivy had jammed the locks on a bunch of lockers but there's no proof she even did it. Ivy goes home to an empty house everyday because of her famous father. Ivy hadn't fully dealt with the grief of losing her mother before starting a new school. Ivy craves emotional acceptance, and she feels invisible. Throughout the book, Ivy has found a deep connection to Nora and their shared grief of both of them losing their parents. As the book goes on, Ivy makes progress when she works with Nora, she starts going to class and scoring high on her tests. During summer vacation, Ivy and Blaze turn up at Nora and her Gram's beach bungalow, but you will need to read this book to find out those details and fun memories. My heart broke for Ivy, she was just trying to navigate her grief, meanwhile kids bullied her because of her pink hair.
April 29, 2025
Beach read season is calling! Pack this gem in your beach bag — you won’t regret it!! Stuck at home this year? No worries! This story will whisk you away to a dreamy seaside escape, no sunscreen required!
⛱️Hale’s books always pack an emotional punch with a story that grabs you from start to finish — and this one is no exception! You won’t be able to put it down!
⛱️The story centers on Nora Jenkins, a devoted high school guidance counselor, as she works to help Ivy Ryman, a grieving teenager, cope with the heartbreaking loss of her mother.
⛱️Nora heads to the Gulf Coast for a much-needed summer escape with her spirited Gram. Not long after they settle in, Ivy shows up at their cottage door, running away from her famous father, Blaze Ryman, who she's now forced to live with after the loss of her mother. Blaze, overwhelmed and buried in work, struggles to connect with Ivy. Nora, who understands the weight of grief all too well, truly sees Ivy for who she is — and soon, Ivy finds comfort and solace in Nora’s presence.
⛱️Hale's vivid and descriptive writing makes the characters, Nora, Blaze, Ivy, and Gram deeply relatable. I felt as if I was part of this heartwarming found family, enjoying their beach vacation while wholeheartedly rooting for a happily-ever-after.
⛱️This is a great book for fans of feel-good romances and stories that explore the complexities of human connections. It's a great reminder of the power of love and new beginnings when you least expect them.
⛱️Hale’s books always pack an emotional punch with a story that grabs you from start to finish — and this one is no exception! You won’t be able to put it down!
⛱️The story centers on Nora Jenkins, a devoted high school guidance counselor, as she works to help Ivy Ryman, a grieving teenager, cope with the heartbreaking loss of her mother.
⛱️Nora heads to the Gulf Coast for a much-needed summer escape with her spirited Gram. Not long after they settle in, Ivy shows up at their cottage door, running away from her famous father, Blaze Ryman, who she's now forced to live with after the loss of her mother. Blaze, overwhelmed and buried in work, struggles to connect with Ivy. Nora, who understands the weight of grief all too well, truly sees Ivy for who she is — and soon, Ivy finds comfort and solace in Nora’s presence.
⛱️Hale's vivid and descriptive writing makes the characters, Nora, Blaze, Ivy, and Gram deeply relatable. I felt as if I was part of this heartwarming found family, enjoying their beach vacation while wholeheartedly rooting for a happily-ever-after.
⛱️This is a great book for fans of feel-good romances and stories that explore the complexities of human connections. It's a great reminder of the power of love and new beginnings when you least expect them.
June 29, 2025
3.5!! Cute quick little read, very sweet
April 28, 2025
Nora Jenkins loves her job as a high school guidance counselor. One student in particular is taking all of Nora’s time and testing her patience. Ivy Ryman is new to Oakland High School. Blaze Ryman, Ivy’s dad, can’t seem to get control of his daughter. And now with the school year coming to an end, Nora is ready for the summer break.
Nora heads out of town and goes directly to the Gulf Coast. It’s her oasis, her happy place, and she is desperate to unplug. As she is basking in the sun, she gets two unexpected visitors. What are Ivy and her dad Blaze doing here, and how in the world did they find her?
Out of the Blue, authored by Jenny Hale, is an amazing and inspirational story full of hope. Nora is a wonderful character that has a heart of gold. I loved that she would do whatever possible to help her students and encourage them. She was such a great influence on them.
I was quickly transported to the toasty sand of the Gulf Coast. This amazing beach read was unputdownable. I was immersed in this book and heard the lapping of the waves on the beach. Hale is an amazing writer that always gives the reader more than expected. This little gem of a story would make a fabulous movie. I highly recommend this phenomenal book.
Nora heads out of town and goes directly to the Gulf Coast. It’s her oasis, her happy place, and she is desperate to unplug. As she is basking in the sun, she gets two unexpected visitors. What are Ivy and her dad Blaze doing here, and how in the world did they find her?
Out of the Blue, authored by Jenny Hale, is an amazing and inspirational story full of hope. Nora is a wonderful character that has a heart of gold. I loved that she would do whatever possible to help her students and encourage them. She was such a great influence on them.
I was quickly transported to the toasty sand of the Gulf Coast. This amazing beach read was unputdownable. I was immersed in this book and heard the lapping of the waves on the beach. Hale is an amazing writer that always gives the reader more than expected. This little gem of a story would make a fabulous movie. I highly recommend this phenomenal book.
April 9, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC for my honest review. I’m so glad I found Jenny Hales books as i absolutely love her books. And WOW Jenny Hale you wrote another winner and I was so excited to be chosen to read this story early. Nora is a school counselor and becomes very attached to a student, Ivy, who is having a hard time dealing with the death of her mother, the only parent she’s ever known and now, she has been forced in to a new life with the father she never knew. That is so much for her to deal with at her age. Being that Nora lost her Mom when she was younger, gives her and Ivy something in common. However Ivy is angry with her Dad as she believes he’s wanted nothing to do with her. So as Nora tries to help them through their journey of acceptance of each other, she starts to have feelings for Blaze. However, being that he’s in the music producing business, she doesn’t feel she can fit in. This is a very heartfelt uplifting story of second chance romance,abandonment issues, and overcoming grief. I highly recommend this beautiful beach read.
March 25, 2025
Talk about a refreshing ARC read! This is the book that shows me why I wanted to get into ARC reads in the first place! There is a deep storyline that is relatable for many people that come from divorce and are trying to navigate the different sides of life. I found it very interesting the way that they brought the romance in and the dynamic that was there between a school counselor and student. This read can be light and fun and a romance that is really just fun or you can really hang on the lessons within. The FMC really struggles to see her purpose and where she finds passion in what she does and to navigate that you have to dive into your inner feelings. If you grasp the lessons you really start to think about what your own purpose and passion is! I really think that anyone who enjoys romance can take away from this book and I will continue to share it moving forward to people looking for their next read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this book. This is the first book I have read by Hale & I enjoyed her writing style and found the story to be a good, uplifting read, ideal for escapism. However, the beginning of the book was slow, and while the pacing picked up, it eventually felt rushed. I was so frustrated with the lack of communication between Nora, Blaze, and Ivy—especially in dealing with their grief. Ivy’s unwillingness to listen to Blaze was frustrating and made the book feel repetitive. The entire book could have been concluded in 50 pages. Some things were unrealistic, such as Ivy’s uninvited presence at the beach house and Jake living alone at 17.
Overall it is an easy beach side read.
Overall it is an easy beach side read.
June 5, 2025
This is the book you grab from a dusty shelf at the beach rental you’re staying at because you realized you forgot to bring something to read and you end up finishing it because you’re looking for any way to fill the time
May 23, 2025
3.5⭐️ this was so wholesome and sweet
May 24, 2025
Great, easy, feel good summer read!
June 18, 2025
Fun book to read!
This book is a great summer beach read that lets you travel through the ups and downs of the characters lives. It took me a minute to get into it, but then it was well worth it and I was anxious to continue reading to find out what came next..
This book is a great summer beach read that lets you travel through the ups and downs of the characters lives. It took me a minute to get into it, but then it was well worth it and I was anxious to continue reading to find out what came next..
July 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5-Star Book Review: Out of the Blue by Jenny Hale
Jenny Hale’s Out of the Blue is a beautifully crafted, heartwarming novel that blends small-town charm, emotional healing, and just the right touch of romance. With her signature feel-good storytelling and vivid, coastal atmosphere, Hale delivers a delightful escape perfect for readers who love stories of second chances and unexpected beginnings.
The novel follows a woman at a turning point in her life who returns to a quaint seaside town to regroup, only to find herself entangled in the lives—and hearts—of the locals, including one irresistible man from her past. What unfolds is a story of rediscovery, both of place and self, filled with tender moments, charming dialogue, and a strong sense of community.
Hale excels at creating characters you want to root for—flawed, relatable, and deeply human. The chemistry between the romantic leads builds slowly and sweetly, making the emotional payoff all the more satisfying. The beachside setting is painted with rich, sensory detail, offering a perfect backdrop for the story’s themes of healing, love, and letting go of the past.
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that a few plot elements follow familiar patterns—but they’re executed so warmly and earnestly that it’s easy to forgive. Out of the Blue is a comforting, uplifting read that reminds us sometimes the most unexpected detours lead us exactly where we’re meant to be.
Perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne and Debbie Macomber, this is a feel-good summer read that leaves your heart a little lighter.
Jenny Hale’s Out of the Blue is a beautifully crafted, heartwarming novel that blends small-town charm, emotional healing, and just the right touch of romance. With her signature feel-good storytelling and vivid, coastal atmosphere, Hale delivers a delightful escape perfect for readers who love stories of second chances and unexpected beginnings.
The novel follows a woman at a turning point in her life who returns to a quaint seaside town to regroup, only to find herself entangled in the lives—and hearts—of the locals, including one irresistible man from her past. What unfolds is a story of rediscovery, both of place and self, filled with tender moments, charming dialogue, and a strong sense of community.
Hale excels at creating characters you want to root for—flawed, relatable, and deeply human. The chemistry between the romantic leads builds slowly and sweetly, making the emotional payoff all the more satisfying. The beachside setting is painted with rich, sensory detail, offering a perfect backdrop for the story’s themes of healing, love, and letting go of the past.
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that a few plot elements follow familiar patterns—but they’re executed so warmly and earnestly that it’s easy to forgive. Out of the Blue is a comforting, uplifting read that reminds us sometimes the most unexpected detours lead us exactly where we’re meant to be.
Perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne and Debbie Macomber, this is a feel-good summer read that leaves your heart a little lighter.
August 5, 2025
Can’t wait till my own beach vacation
April 18, 2025
This was my first Jenny Hale book and I enjoyed it. Nora Jenkins is a high school guidance counselor working with a very troubled new student Ivy Ryman. Ivy's mom passed away and now she's unhappily living with her famous music producer dad Blaze who had been completely cut out of her life up until now. Ivy has been acting out in and out of school and Nora seems to be the only one who can connect with her and reach her on any level. When the school year ends, Nora heads off with her grandmother for a relaxing beach vacation, but shortly after they get there, a distraught Ivy shows up followed quickly by her dad Blaze. Everything that happens from there is totally predictable, but still light and easy to read. This book is perfect for a beach/vacation read. Thanks to #netgalley and #harpethroadpress for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2025
This was a cute read. Nothing to jump out your jeans about but I don’t regret it. Definitely a beach read which kind of made me depressed bc I indeed was not on the beach whilst reading. So .5 star deduction for that. Also 1 full star deduction bc the guys name was Blaze which rlly pmo.
March 27, 2025
I received an ARC from NetGalley
Ivy showing up at Nora's cottage door premeditated. Totally unacceptable. Both Blake and Nora couldn't draw the line with Ivy. Many aspects were a bit unbelievable. Jake was alone in a cottage at 17????? How difficult was it for Gram or Nora to say they had pizza the day before? Ivy is a unwanted guest and she decides what's for supper. I get that she was in mourning but she still needed limits in her life; her mother didn't give them to her - she was not the perfect mother - while she was alive, so now Blake was paying the price. Ivy never, ever, listened to Blake's story and I really felt for him; she didn't even try. I thought it was really cool - if it's true - that you can see the curvature of the earth when parasailing at 300 feet in the air. Too many repeats on how Nora knew how it felt to lose her mother and that Blake was nothing like his public persona. A bit of SPN, talk of God and Heaven. The story is slow at the beginning and then at the end, but it goes really fast in the middle. So much stuff was happening. I really liked Blake and Nora. Gram was a hoot and Jake seemed like a great guy.
Ivy showing up at Nora's cottage door premeditated. Totally unacceptable. Both Blake and Nora couldn't draw the line with Ivy. Many aspects were a bit unbelievable. Jake was alone in a cottage at 17????? How difficult was it for Gram or Nora to say they had pizza the day before? Ivy is a unwanted guest and she decides what's for supper. I get that she was in mourning but she still needed limits in her life; her mother didn't give them to her - she was not the perfect mother - while she was alive, so now Blake was paying the price. Ivy never, ever, listened to Blake's story and I really felt for him; she didn't even try. I thought it was really cool - if it's true - that you can see the curvature of the earth when parasailing at 300 feet in the air. Too many repeats on how Nora knew how it felt to lose her mother and that Blake was nothing like his public persona. A bit of SPN, talk of God and Heaven. The story is slow at the beginning and then at the end, but it goes really fast in the middle. So much stuff was happening. I really liked Blake and Nora. Gram was a hoot and Jake seemed like a great guy.
April 13, 2025
O.M.G. What a book!
The story starts with Nora, who is a school counsellor for high school aged children finds herself with Ivy who is dealing with intense grief after her mother's death and a father who is a famous music producer in Nashville that is always busy (too busy it seems to be with his daughter who until her death had been living with her mum. Ivy is doing everything physically possible to get in trouble so she doesn't have to be in school but she finds herself being with Nora for counselling sessions.
After many previous sessions with other counsellors elsewhere it seems Nora is different as Ivy finds herself turning over a new leaf and is behaving and getting good grades at school. Then when summer break comes Ivy finds herself not wanting to be at home where she will be alone due to her dads work so she leaves in the middle of the night to drive for several hours and turns up on Nora's holiday home doorstep carrying a duffle bag - so much for a relaxing 2week break away from it all to spend some valued time with her Grandmother.
After a phone call to Ivy's father telling him when she is and she is safe can Nora and her Gran begin their holiday or will that all change now they have a guest?
The story starts with Nora, who is a school counsellor for high school aged children finds herself with Ivy who is dealing with intense grief after her mother's death and a father who is a famous music producer in Nashville that is always busy (too busy it seems to be with his daughter who until her death had been living with her mum. Ivy is doing everything physically possible to get in trouble so she doesn't have to be in school but she finds herself being with Nora for counselling sessions.
After many previous sessions with other counsellors elsewhere it seems Nora is different as Ivy finds herself turning over a new leaf and is behaving and getting good grades at school. Then when summer break comes Ivy finds herself not wanting to be at home where she will be alone due to her dads work so she leaves in the middle of the night to drive for several hours and turns up on Nora's holiday home doorstep carrying a duffle bag - so much for a relaxing 2week break away from it all to spend some valued time with her Grandmother.
After a phone call to Ivy's father telling him when she is and she is safe can Nora and her Gran begin their holiday or will that all change now they have a guest?
March 23, 2025
I absolutely love Jenny Hale's books—they're always so sweet and heartwarming. I was thrilled to receive advance access to her upcoming novel, Out of the Blue, set to be released on April 29, 2025! It was fantastic, and I can’t wait to read more of her books soon!
#OutoftheBlue #NetGalley
#OutoftheBlue #NetGalley
April 4, 2025
Out of the Blue is Jenny Hale’s newest novel and has the same feel-good vibes of her past books. Nora is a high school counselor and has one student in particular, Ivy, who has been going through a difficult time after losing her mother. Nora lives with her grandmother and they are going on a beach vacation when troubled Ivy shows up at their door. Ivy’s dad soon follows, and they invite them to vacation with them, but soon realize it’s more than just a trip to the beach - they are inviting them into their hearts. Very sweet read and highly recommend reading at the beach!
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review and opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
Precious, clean story that reads quick and easy with just enough drama to keep you engaged. The characters are all lovable and the end leaves you smiling! Just what I needed.
April 13, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley, Books Go Social and Jenny Hale for the E Arc of this book.
We meet Nora who is a high school counsellor. Recently she has had a new pupil to deal with Ivy. Her father is a very busy and well known music producer and is having a hard time understanding, communicating and really getting to know his daughter. Ivy has taken a liking to Nora and is willing to open up to her, rather than a therapist. As the summer holidays draw closer, the more Nora is looking forward to spending time with her beloved grandmother in a beautiful beach cottage, her Gran has rented for them for 2 weeks, on the gulf coast. The thoughts of warm sun, lazing on the beach reading and wandering the quaint town nearby fill her days.
However, things do not go as planned. One night Ivy turns up at the beach cottage, having driven through many states to get there. She has had enough of living with her father, who is so busy he can’t spend much time with her. Nora phones Ivy’s Dad Blaze, to find out that he is driving to the cottage to get his daughter. Instead of a quiet time with her Gran, they both find themselves hosting Ivy and Blaze. As they all spend time together the more Ivy and Blaze open up to each other. Ivy also makes a friend in the boy, who is there for the summer, living in a cottage just along the beach. The more time Nora and Blaze spend together the more they are attracted to each other. Could this be more that a summer attraction?
I really enjoyed this book. Great characters and plot line, that had me turning the pages. I liked Ivy as a character, she was so guarded, it was lovely to see her come out of herself and really blossom. I thought the author did a great job of writing the struggle between Ivy and Blaze to actually get to know each other. Nora and her Grandmother were great foils for Ivy and Blaze, they were caring ladies who were able to add their knowledge and advice in a compassionate way.
This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last. I really hope you will pick it up.
We meet Nora who is a high school counsellor. Recently she has had a new pupil to deal with Ivy. Her father is a very busy and well known music producer and is having a hard time understanding, communicating and really getting to know his daughter. Ivy has taken a liking to Nora and is willing to open up to her, rather than a therapist. As the summer holidays draw closer, the more Nora is looking forward to spending time with her beloved grandmother in a beautiful beach cottage, her Gran has rented for them for 2 weeks, on the gulf coast. The thoughts of warm sun, lazing on the beach reading and wandering the quaint town nearby fill her days.
However, things do not go as planned. One night Ivy turns up at the beach cottage, having driven through many states to get there. She has had enough of living with her father, who is so busy he can’t spend much time with her. Nora phones Ivy’s Dad Blaze, to find out that he is driving to the cottage to get his daughter. Instead of a quiet time with her Gran, they both find themselves hosting Ivy and Blaze. As they all spend time together the more Ivy and Blaze open up to each other. Ivy also makes a friend in the boy, who is there for the summer, living in a cottage just along the beach. The more time Nora and Blaze spend together the more they are attracted to each other. Could this be more that a summer attraction?
I really enjoyed this book. Great characters and plot line, that had me turning the pages. I liked Ivy as a character, she was so guarded, it was lovely to see her come out of herself and really blossom. I thought the author did a great job of writing the struggle between Ivy and Blaze to actually get to know each other. Nora and her Grandmother were great foils for Ivy and Blaze, they were caring ladies who were able to add their knowledge and advice in a compassionate way.
This was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last. I really hope you will pick it up.
May 13, 2025
Out of the Blue by Jenny Hale is a wonderful book filled with emotion, family, and life choices. Nora Jenkins is a high school counselor who is the only person to bond with a new student, Ivy Ryman. Ivy's mom has passed away and she lived with her alone since she was little. Ivy has now been placed with her very famous, successful music producer father, in Nashville. Ivy hasn't had a relationship with her father since her parents divorced when she was 4. Ivy's mom told her lots of negative things about her father and she wants nothing to do with him. Blaze Ryman hasn't been a father to Ivy in a long time and he's in over his head. He doesn't know how to get through to Ivy without making her angry. Can these 2 find a way to work things out and become family again?
Nora is the key to that as she's the only one Ivy will talk to. She fires all of the therapists that her father hires, but will talk to Nora. The other teachers send Ivy out of class for her behavior and stunts. She put a virus on one teacher's computer, threw test papers out the window in another teacher's classroom, and the list goes on. The principal has decided that Nora will meet with Ivy every day before school and at the end of the day. He knows that Ivy needs help and Nora is the only person she talks to. Nora has tried to get Blaze to come into school, but with his schedule it's hard to reach him. Finally, Blaze meets Nora at school to discuss Ivy's behavior. When Nora finds out how unprepared Blaze is to deal with a teenaged girl, she knows she has to help. She gives Blaze tips on how to talk to Ivy and what she will respond to. He's happy for the help, but knows that Nora is leaving on vacation when school ends in 2 weeks. How is he going to make it through the summer with no help?
Nora and her Gram are going to a beach cottage in Florida for 2 weeks. It's been one of Gram's dreams since her husband passed away as he always wanted to go. Nora and her Gram have lived together since Nora's parents died in a car accident when she was in her 20's. Her grandparents were so good to her and she got through the tragedy because of them. Can Nora find a way to do the same for Ivy? Nora knows the pain Ivy is dealing with and can't imagine going through it at her age. Nora feels close to Ivy and wants to help her through her grief.
Once the school year is over, Nora and Gram head to Florida. They love the cottage they rented and can't believe they get to enjoy it for 2 weeks! Gram was right to rent it and Nora didn't realize how much they both needed a vacation! As they're fixing dinner, they hear a knock at the door. Who could it be? There's no one around. Imagine Nora's surprise when she opens the door and finds Ivy standing there! Will Nora be able to help Ivy now that she's crashed her vacation? Does Blaze know that Ivy drove all night to find her in Florida? How can she help them get closer to each other when they're in different states? This book gives you all the feels and you will be cheering for all of them to find what they need. I rate Out of the Blue 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The book is available now and is a perfect beach/summer read. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Harpeth Road Press for an advanced copy of Out of the Blue in exchange for a fair review. #OutOfTheBlue
Nora is the key to that as she's the only one Ivy will talk to. She fires all of the therapists that her father hires, but will talk to Nora. The other teachers send Ivy out of class for her behavior and stunts. She put a virus on one teacher's computer, threw test papers out the window in another teacher's classroom, and the list goes on. The principal has decided that Nora will meet with Ivy every day before school and at the end of the day. He knows that Ivy needs help and Nora is the only person she talks to. Nora has tried to get Blaze to come into school, but with his schedule it's hard to reach him. Finally, Blaze meets Nora at school to discuss Ivy's behavior. When Nora finds out how unprepared Blaze is to deal with a teenaged girl, she knows she has to help. She gives Blaze tips on how to talk to Ivy and what she will respond to. He's happy for the help, but knows that Nora is leaving on vacation when school ends in 2 weeks. How is he going to make it through the summer with no help?
Nora and her Gram are going to a beach cottage in Florida for 2 weeks. It's been one of Gram's dreams since her husband passed away as he always wanted to go. Nora and her Gram have lived together since Nora's parents died in a car accident when she was in her 20's. Her grandparents were so good to her and she got through the tragedy because of them. Can Nora find a way to do the same for Ivy? Nora knows the pain Ivy is dealing with and can't imagine going through it at her age. Nora feels close to Ivy and wants to help her through her grief.
Once the school year is over, Nora and Gram head to Florida. They love the cottage they rented and can't believe they get to enjoy it for 2 weeks! Gram was right to rent it and Nora didn't realize how much they both needed a vacation! As they're fixing dinner, they hear a knock at the door. Who could it be? There's no one around. Imagine Nora's surprise when she opens the door and finds Ivy standing there! Will Nora be able to help Ivy now that she's crashed her vacation? Does Blaze know that Ivy drove all night to find her in Florida? How can she help them get closer to each other when they're in different states? This book gives you all the feels and you will be cheering for all of them to find what they need. I rate Out of the Blue 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The book is available now and is a perfect beach/summer read. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Harpeth Road Press for an advanced copy of Out of the Blue in exchange for a fair review. #OutOfTheBlue
May 6, 2025
High school counselor Nora likes her job best when she can help the most troubled students and her latest challenge is Ivy, a girl who just lost her mother and is sent to live with her father, Blaze, who is a wealthy and successful music producer. Ivy had been living out-of-state with her mother, who had shielded her from her father. They don’t know each other well, and now Blaze is having to juggle his new role of fatherhood with his demanding work and travel schedule, often leaving Ivy alone with a nanny. The only person Ivy starts to feel comfortable with is Nora.
Nora lost her parents at a young age, and has relied on her grandparents since their death. She now lives with her widowed grandmother and the two of them have planned the vacation of a lifetime, renting a house on the Gulf Shores. This trip to the beach is something their grandfather would have loved to do, so they are splurging on this trip as a treat to themselves and in memory of him.
As the school year is coming to a close and Nora is planning for her much-needed vacation, she is working hard to settle Ivy and find her a counselor for the summer. Because of Ivy’s growing attachment to Nora, she is drawn into the dynamic between Ivy and Blaze, wanting to help them both adjust to this big change in their lives and this new normal. She now finds herself advising an out-of-his-element Blaze as he learns how to lean into this new fatherhood role. The trouble is, Nora finds she has a growing attraction to Blaze, which sets her up for heartache—how could a high-flying music executive fall for a lowly high school guidance counselor?
The school year can’t end fast enough, and, satisfied she has stabilized Ivy and Blaze, Nora and her grandmother leave for their beach trip. They are barely there a day when Ivy shows up at their rental, begging to be able to stay. Of course, Blaze shows up to retrieve his daughter, only they end up staying, sharing in the beach vacation. Ivy meets a boy her own age and this new friendship and budding romance give her an outlet she didn’t have at her high school. It settles her, and though her relationship with Blaze still has a ways to go, things slowly begin to improve. Blaze and Nora also spend more time together, giving the attracting between them some time to grow and flourish outside of their school relationship.
I found this book to be a sweet read, deftly navigating the subject of grief with which all of the characters grappled. Ivy showing up at the beach cottage seemed a little far-fetched, but the this change of setting allowed for healing to take place as well as romance to blossom.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Nora lost her parents at a young age, and has relied on her grandparents since their death. She now lives with her widowed grandmother and the two of them have planned the vacation of a lifetime, renting a house on the Gulf Shores. This trip to the beach is something their grandfather would have loved to do, so they are splurging on this trip as a treat to themselves and in memory of him.
As the school year is coming to a close and Nora is planning for her much-needed vacation, she is working hard to settle Ivy and find her a counselor for the summer. Because of Ivy’s growing attachment to Nora, she is drawn into the dynamic between Ivy and Blaze, wanting to help them both adjust to this big change in their lives and this new normal. She now finds herself advising an out-of-his-element Blaze as he learns how to lean into this new fatherhood role. The trouble is, Nora finds she has a growing attraction to Blaze, which sets her up for heartache—how could a high-flying music executive fall for a lowly high school guidance counselor?
The school year can’t end fast enough, and, satisfied she has stabilized Ivy and Blaze, Nora and her grandmother leave for their beach trip. They are barely there a day when Ivy shows up at their rental, begging to be able to stay. Of course, Blaze shows up to retrieve his daughter, only they end up staying, sharing in the beach vacation. Ivy meets a boy her own age and this new friendship and budding romance give her an outlet she didn’t have at her high school. It settles her, and though her relationship with Blaze still has a ways to go, things slowly begin to improve. Blaze and Nora also spend more time together, giving the attracting between them some time to grow and flourish outside of their school relationship.
I found this book to be a sweet read, deftly navigating the subject of grief with which all of the characters grappled. Ivy showing up at the beach cottage seemed a little far-fetched, but the this change of setting allowed for healing to take place as well as romance to blossom.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2025
Everything is better at the beach. This book was a great escape, especially since a lot of the book was set at the white shores of the Gulf.
Nora Jenkins is a school guidance counselor. A student at the school, Ivy Ryman, keeps ending up in her office because of her different shenanigans. Some see Ivy as a troublemaker, but Nora sees a young woman who is in pain and just needs someone to see her. Ivy lost her mother and is now living with her father, Blaze Ryman. Blaze is a super successful music producer and is away from home a lot. These two need communication instead of avoidance, but it was if neither one knew where to start.
When Blaze and Ivy end up crashing Nora and her grandmother's beach vacation, none of them are prepared for the things that are about to happen to change each of their lives forever.
This book is a perfect beach read. It made me long for the white sandy beaches as the author described their little white cottage on the beach. Each character was special in their own way. Ivy was struggling mightily. I felt so sorry for her, but I also wanted to shake her at times. Being a teenage girl was hard enough for her, but also dealing with unprocessed grief was making her life miserable, and in turn she made everyone around her miserable. Suddenly the salty breeze, sunshine and sand are changing things for everyone in the house. I loved every single minute of this book. I smiled so much in the final 20 pages of this book that my face hurt. This author knows how to write a happily ever after story, but she also knows how to address real world issues with finesse.
Thank you to Harpeth Road, BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nora Jenkins is a school guidance counselor. A student at the school, Ivy Ryman, keeps ending up in her office because of her different shenanigans. Some see Ivy as a troublemaker, but Nora sees a young woman who is in pain and just needs someone to see her. Ivy lost her mother and is now living with her father, Blaze Ryman. Blaze is a super successful music producer and is away from home a lot. These two need communication instead of avoidance, but it was if neither one knew where to start.
When Blaze and Ivy end up crashing Nora and her grandmother's beach vacation, none of them are prepared for the things that are about to happen to change each of their lives forever.
This book is a perfect beach read. It made me long for the white sandy beaches as the author described their little white cottage on the beach. Each character was special in their own way. Ivy was struggling mightily. I felt so sorry for her, but I also wanted to shake her at times. Being a teenage girl was hard enough for her, but also dealing with unprocessed grief was making her life miserable, and in turn she made everyone around her miserable. Suddenly the salty breeze, sunshine and sand are changing things for everyone in the house. I loved every single minute of this book. I smiled so much in the final 20 pages of this book that my face hurt. This author knows how to write a happily ever after story, but she also knows how to address real world issues with finesse.
Thank you to Harpeth Road, BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2025
Originally posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
A warm, beachy setting with themes of healing and discovering love when you least expect it.
🥹 Uplifting | ❤️ (Very) Slow-Burn Romance | 🇺🇸 Nashville / Florida
High school guidance counselor Nora Jenkins has her hands full. Her newest student, Ivy Ryman, has been wreaking havoc at Oakland High and is consuming all of Nora’s work hours. Ivy’s father, the wildly successful music producer Blaze Ryman, is too caught up in his demanding career to manage his daughter’s growing rebellion. Nora, however, has a soft spot for the troubled teen, who’s lost her mother and is now trying to navigate life with a distant, high-profile father.
When summer break finally arrives, Nora dreams of escaping to the Gulf Coast—of turquoise waters, sunny days, and cocktails on the beach. She’s just about to settle into her long-awaited retreat when Ivy and Blaze unexpectedly show up at her beachfront doorstep, bringing all the drama she had hoped to leave behind.
I’ve loved Jenny Hale’s books for years (especially her cozy, heartwarming Christmas ones!), so it pains me a little to say this… but this one just wasn’t for me.
As always, her writing style remains lovely—easy, uplifting, and perfect for escapism—but the story itself struggled to find its footing. The beginning felt slow and drawn out, but once the pacing picked up, it almost moved too quickly, rushing through important emotional beats. The biggest disappointment for me was the romance—or rather, the lack of it. The relationship between Nora and Blaze was barely developed; the focus remained almost entirely on Ivy’s struggles. I wanted to see a deeper, more natural build between Nora and Blaze, but instead, it felt like the story fast-forwarded to a neat, unrealistic ending where everything magically resolved. I needed more sparks!
I found myself frustrated with the lack of meaningful communication between Nora, Blaze, and Ivy, particularly when it came to working through their grief. Ivy’s constant rebellion, paired with Blaze’s inability to reach her, felt repetitive and exhausting. After so much estrangement, their sudden reconciliation felt unearned. A trip of a lifetime after barely speaking? It didn’t sit right with me.
I appreciated the exploration of Nora’s inner struggle—trying to find her purpose and reignite her passion. Also Nora’s Gram, June, was a wonderful addition to the story.
Overall, this was a slower, less satisfying read for me personally. However, I can still see how others might enjoy its warm, beachy setting and themes of healing and find love when you least expect it.
I kindly received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much Netgalley, Harpeth Road Press, BooksGoSocial and Jenny Hale.
A warm, beachy setting with themes of healing and discovering love when you least expect it.
🥹 Uplifting | ❤️ (Very) Slow-Burn Romance | 🇺🇸 Nashville / Florida
High school guidance counselor Nora Jenkins has her hands full. Her newest student, Ivy Ryman, has been wreaking havoc at Oakland High and is consuming all of Nora’s work hours. Ivy’s father, the wildly successful music producer Blaze Ryman, is too caught up in his demanding career to manage his daughter’s growing rebellion. Nora, however, has a soft spot for the troubled teen, who’s lost her mother and is now trying to navigate life with a distant, high-profile father.
When summer break finally arrives, Nora dreams of escaping to the Gulf Coast—of turquoise waters, sunny days, and cocktails on the beach. She’s just about to settle into her long-awaited retreat when Ivy and Blaze unexpectedly show up at her beachfront doorstep, bringing all the drama she had hoped to leave behind.
I’ve loved Jenny Hale’s books for years (especially her cozy, heartwarming Christmas ones!), so it pains me a little to say this… but this one just wasn’t for me.
As always, her writing style remains lovely—easy, uplifting, and perfect for escapism—but the story itself struggled to find its footing. The beginning felt slow and drawn out, but once the pacing picked up, it almost moved too quickly, rushing through important emotional beats. The biggest disappointment for me was the romance—or rather, the lack of it. The relationship between Nora and Blaze was barely developed; the focus remained almost entirely on Ivy’s struggles. I wanted to see a deeper, more natural build between Nora and Blaze, but instead, it felt like the story fast-forwarded to a neat, unrealistic ending where everything magically resolved. I needed more sparks!
I found myself frustrated with the lack of meaningful communication between Nora, Blaze, and Ivy, particularly when it came to working through their grief. Ivy’s constant rebellion, paired with Blaze’s inability to reach her, felt repetitive and exhausting. After so much estrangement, their sudden reconciliation felt unearned. A trip of a lifetime after barely speaking? It didn’t sit right with me.
I appreciated the exploration of Nora’s inner struggle—trying to find her purpose and reignite her passion. Also Nora’s Gram, June, was a wonderful addition to the story.
Overall, this was a slower, less satisfying read for me personally. However, I can still see how others might enjoy its warm, beachy setting and themes of healing and find love when you least expect it.
I kindly received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much Netgalley, Harpeth Road Press, BooksGoSocial and Jenny Hale.
April 29, 2025
Nora Jenkins a school counselor is counting down the days to summer vacation. She has a beachside resort calling her name. She and her grandmother are planning to relax and enjoy the sun. Nora is a little concerned what will happen with one of her students, Ivy Ryman when school is over. Ivy lost her mother and is still grieving. She has been acting out since having to live with her father she barely knows. Nora seems to be the only one that can help Ivy. Ivy’s father turns to Nora as well to help him navigate how to bond with Ivy. Now all Nora has to do is find Ivy a counselor she likes and she can go enjoy the sun and surf.
Vacation finally arrives and Nora and her grandmother head to the coast. Just as they start to relax, they get an unexpected visitor which throws their vacation into a spin. One visitor is enough, but when the next one shows up, it’s hard to resist when he is not only kind but also handsome. Can Nora keep her relationship with the Rymans professional or will she take a chance on love?
Author Jenny Hale has done it again. Another amazing novel filled with friends, family and a blossoming romance. I loved all the characters from the start and my heart broke for Ivy. The plot was so interesting, I couldn’t put the book down. I laughed, I cried and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. My thanks to Harpeth Road Press and the author Jenny Hale for my advanced readers copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. This is the perfect summer read.
Vacation finally arrives and Nora and her grandmother head to the coast. Just as they start to relax, they get an unexpected visitor which throws their vacation into a spin. One visitor is enough, but when the next one shows up, it’s hard to resist when he is not only kind but also handsome. Can Nora keep her relationship with the Rymans professional or will she take a chance on love?
Author Jenny Hale has done it again. Another amazing novel filled with friends, family and a blossoming romance. I loved all the characters from the start and my heart broke for Ivy. The plot was so interesting, I couldn’t put the book down. I laughed, I cried and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. My thanks to Harpeth Road Press and the author Jenny Hale for my advanced readers copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. This is the perfect summer read.
May 8, 2025
Nora Jenkins is a high school guidance counselor at Oakland High School. She deals with a lot of students but there is one in particular that stands out to her and not in a good way. Ivy Ryman is the "trouble maker" and she is the daughter of famous music producer Blaze Ryman. Ivy feels that her father does not pay any attention to her and she is also not acting appropriately at school. Nora steps in to help Ivy behave correctly at school before summer lets out.
Nora can't wait for summer break as she is going to her happy place which is the Gulf Coast with her grandmother (also known as Gram in the book). Gram and Nora have a special relationship as they live together. They have both been through a lot in their lifetimes. They are so excited to relax at both of their happy places. Something unexpected happens as Blaze and Ivy show up unexpected at their beach house. Do they stay with Nora and Gram during their vacation? Does Ivy change her ways? Does Blaze give Ivy the attention she has always wanted from her father?
I absolutely LOVED this beach read! Even though I read this in May it was a great, early start to summer reading in my opinion! This book DEFINITELY NEEDS to be on your summer, beach reads, tbr list! Jenny Hale always hits it out of the park with her Hallmark like novels! They always get me teary-eyed (in a good way)! This novel had me in my feels and I did not want to put it down! Jenny made me feel like I had my toes in the sand and I was actually staying with Nora and Gram!
A HUGE Thank you to Harpeth Road Press and Jenny Hale for this e-ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review!
Nora can't wait for summer break as she is going to her happy place which is the Gulf Coast with her grandmother (also known as Gram in the book). Gram and Nora have a special relationship as they live together. They have both been through a lot in their lifetimes. They are so excited to relax at both of their happy places. Something unexpected happens as Blaze and Ivy show up unexpected at their beach house. Do they stay with Nora and Gram during their vacation? Does Ivy change her ways? Does Blaze give Ivy the attention she has always wanted from her father?
I absolutely LOVED this beach read! Even though I read this in May it was a great, early start to summer reading in my opinion! This book DEFINITELY NEEDS to be on your summer, beach reads, tbr list! Jenny Hale always hits it out of the park with her Hallmark like novels! They always get me teary-eyed (in a good way)! This novel had me in my feels and I did not want to put it down! Jenny made me feel like I had my toes in the sand and I was actually staying with Nora and Gram!
A HUGE Thank you to Harpeth Road Press and Jenny Hale for this e-ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review!
April 28, 2025
In this book Ivy, an emotionally distraught teen, is acting out while she struggles with grief for her deceased mother and adjusts to living with her famous dad, Blaze, whom she believed abandoned them when Ivy was a child. Ivy bonds with Nora, her high school counselor, who lost her own parents at a young age and is able to understand and reach her. Blaze reaches out to Nora for assistance and an unexpected friendship develops between them. At the end of the school year, Ivy and her grandmother (one of my favorite characters) head to the beach to enjoy two weeks of stress-free relaxation and on the first day who shows up at their beachfront cottage? Runaway Ivy followed by Blaze in hot pursuit. This book demonstrates that sometimes the interruptions to our plans can change our lives for the better. In addition to the teenage drama and the appealing development of a new romance, this book posed existential questions—how can we best use the time we have on earth and what happens when our time is up? (no answers given for that second issue—this is a clean book but it is not faith-based). It will make you think. I loved the happy ending that is really just the beginning for all of the characters. Would be a great beach read! Rating 4.5 I received a complimentary copy thanks to Harpeth Road Press and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
April 28, 2025
A totally sweet romance about finding love when it’s least expected. Nora Jenkins moved away after the man she was engaged to cheated on her. She is now a high school guidance counselor and although she loves her job, there is never enough time to help the many students who need her. One student, Ivy Ryman, seems to find her way to Nora’s office almost daily. Ivy is dealing with the death of her mother and living with the father that she doesn’t know. Not only does she not know him, but he is a famous music producer who doesn’t seem to have time for her. Nora is living with her grandmother and is looking forward to their summer trip, to the beach, when she finally meets Ivy’s father, Blaze. She finds herself enjoying time spent with him as she offers ways for him to bond with Ivy. A scare over her grandmother’s health and missing Blaze when he no longer needs her help has her wondering what is next for her. As she begins to move towards the next chapter in her life, will that chapter contain the two people that she has lost her heart to, Ivy and Blaze? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (4.5, paytonpuppy)
July 7, 2025
Nashville Tn to Florida.
Nora a school counselor, has problem student Ivy whose mother died and she moved in with her dad. Had to change school, friends and home. She acts out to get dad’s attention. Nora has to meet with her dad who is a big music producer Blaze. When she meets him he is so down to earth and easy to talk to. But doesn’t know how to be a father. Nora forms relationship with Ivy and the last weeks of school Ivy was good. But she didn’t know what she was going to do for the summer. Nora was going to Florida for 2 wks. They get there and Ivy shows up at their door. She calls Blaze to tell him he come for her. Ivy gets to know a boy Jake in the next cottage. Blaze and Ivy end up staying with them. Nora try’s to help them in their relationship. Nora and Blaze go for ice cream and then parasailing they all hang at the beach and paddle board Ivy and Jake hang out a lot. The last day there Blaze is cold to Nora she doesn’t understand what happened. She’s working on herself.
Then Blaze and Ivy show up at her door, he wanted to get this right he’d gone to counseling he wanted to peruse a relationship with her. After a yr Ivy graduated and Blaze asked Nora to marry him.
Nora a school counselor, has problem student Ivy whose mother died and she moved in with her dad. Had to change school, friends and home. She acts out to get dad’s attention. Nora has to meet with her dad who is a big music producer Blaze. When she meets him he is so down to earth and easy to talk to. But doesn’t know how to be a father. Nora forms relationship with Ivy and the last weeks of school Ivy was good. But she didn’t know what she was going to do for the summer. Nora was going to Florida for 2 wks. They get there and Ivy shows up at their door. She calls Blaze to tell him he come for her. Ivy gets to know a boy Jake in the next cottage. Blaze and Ivy end up staying with them. Nora try’s to help them in their relationship. Nora and Blaze go for ice cream and then parasailing they all hang at the beach and paddle board Ivy and Jake hang out a lot. The last day there Blaze is cold to Nora she doesn’t understand what happened. She’s working on herself.
Then Blaze and Ivy show up at her door, he wanted to get this right he’d gone to counseling he wanted to peruse a relationship with her. After a yr Ivy graduated and Blaze asked Nora to marry him.
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