Everything Changes But You

Halfmoon Quay #2

by Sarah Bennett

Is home always where the heart is?

Running a café by the sea in Halfmoon Quay should be a dream job for Issy Kernow, but the view reminds her of everything she’s lost since her parents’ death. She’s relied on no one but herself and her eccentric grandmother, Maud. But as Maud finds unexpected love, Issy begins to feel restless and lonely. Could it be time for a change?

Liam Penrose has always lived up to his family’s expectations, but after a failed relationship and a job he hates, life in London isn’t fulfilling. When a gift from his great-uncle offers the chance to take over a run-down hotel in Halfmoon Quay, Liam is torn. Returning home means a career change—and a chance to reconnect with Issy, his teenage love who slipped away years ago. Is it too late for Liam to risk everything and return to the life he once dreamed of?

In this heart-lifting story of love and second chances, will Issy and Liam discover that, when everything changes around them, some things were always meant to be?

Genres: Romance, Womens Fiction

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 8, 2025

About the author

Sarah Bennett has been reading for as long as she can remember. Raised in a family of bookworms, her love affair with books of all genres has culminated in the ultimate Happy Ever After – getting to write her own stories to share with others.

Born and raised in a military family, she is happily married to her own Officer (who is sometimes even A Gentleman). Home is wherever he lays his hat, and life has taught them both that the best family is the one you create from friends as well as relatives.

When not reading or writing, Sarah is a devotee of afternoon naps and sailing the high seas, but only on vessels large enough to accommodate a casino and a choice of restaurants.

You can connect with her via twitter @Sarahlou_writes or on Facebook www.facebook.com/SarahBennettAuthor

Sarah is the author of the Butterfly Cove, Lavender Bay and Bluebell Castle series for HQ Digital UK.

Reviews

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything Changes But You is another heartwarming gem from Sarah Bennett, and I was so happy to return to the world of Halfmoon Quay. It felt like catching up with old friends—comforting, familiar, and full of charm. I’m so glad I discovered this series; it’s the kind of storytelling that stays with you.

Issy’s life at the café is full of routine and responsibility, but beneath the surface, she’s quietly grieving her parents' deaths, and the rejection of her best friend, and she is craving something more. Her bond with Grandma Maud is a highlight—warm, quirky, and deeply touching—and Maud’s unexpected romance adds a lovely spark. Liam’s return brings tension and tenderness, as old feelings resurface and new possibilities begin to form. I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold slowly and naturally, with all the awkwardness and hope that comes from revisiting the past. The setting of Halfmoon Quay adds a gentle charm, making this a story that feels both comforting and emotionally honest.

This book left me with such a full heart. I loved the gentle pace, the emotional honesty, and the way Sarah Bennett captures the quiet beauty of second chances. Returning to Halfmoon Quay felt like slipping into something familiar and comforting, and Issy and Liam’s story reminded me that healing often comes in unexpected ways. I’m so glad I found this series—it’s one I’ll keep coming back to whenever I need a little hope and a lot of heart.

[Cedy Redcay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Net Galley and Sarah Bennett for allowing me to read and review this book. I was sold once I realized it was a second chance romance.

Issy Kernow runs a small café in Halfmoon Quay, but despite the charm of her seaside town, she feels something is missing in her life. When her free-spirited grandmother unexpectedly finds romance, Issy begins to question her own path. At the same time, Liam Penrose returns home, hoping for a fresh start after a broken relationship and an unfulfilling job. The story follows their journeys as they both search for renewal and possibly love with each other.

This is the second book in the series (you should read the first book in the series. Can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the first one prior). There is a character list in the beginning that I frequently referred back to because I had a hard time remembering characters. While I did enjoy the premise of the book, I found the pacing to be a little slow in the beginning. I really felt as though certain things by were a big dragged out, but it started to pick up in the second half of the book.

This is a good comfort read and I enjoyed Issy and Liam’s relationship but again it was slow to get there.

[Joanne D'Arcy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Issy has always dreamt about running her café by the sea. It is just her and her grandmother, Maud since her parents died. For Maud, life is changing and she has a second chance at love.

Does this mean Issy will as well ?

Maybe, when an old flame returns to Halfmoon Quay. Liam Penrose, dissatisfied with life in London is back and with the opportunity to run the family hotel, it seems he may have found what he was always meant to do in life. However, he has some ghosts to lay to rest and prove his worth to more than just Issy.

Character driven novel, full of community spirit which links this second book in the series (read the first to start your Halfmoon Quay journey). Plenty of warmth and romantic moments which makes this book, this series and anything from the author a pure joy to read.

[Carlina Kinch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to say thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book. I really appreciate it!

I have had the absolute privilege of being able to read Sarah Bennett's work before a couple of times, including the first book in her 'Halfmoon Quay' series, 'Just the Beginning'. I'm very happy to say even if you haven't read the previous books that's perfectly alright! These work flawlessly as interconnected standalones, however you're going to want to read every book in this series! After reading Rick and Anya's story, I'm so excited to have read Issy and Liam's story! I honestly have to say I love this one the most!

Don't let the characters list at the beginning fool you though, it might be a big list but they're super easy to keep track of! If you're looking for the perfect coziest, second chance romance, and or second chance childhood romance stories to read this is it! This was so well done, slightly predictable on the twists but not in a bad way, they're not meant to be shocking I believe they're meant to be very obvious not to make you look silly but to make you think it all through and truly feel everyone's emotions it just works so well! Issy and Liam feel so real, and it was just so enjoyable and relatable. That when you get to those twists your heart is going to go out to them, what they go through is just going to pull you in and make you love them so much more! Thank you so much for giving me more of Maud too! She's Issy's nan and I adored her in the first book and I loved having more of her here! She is the older lady you want to be like when you grow up and the exact woman I wished I had for a grandmother! Watching the second chance occur I know I've already said it but it was flawless! Absolutely zero faults or issues with anything!

This is another series that also pulls me in and makes me feel like I'm pulled along for the ride and made to be one of the family! I really truly felt it in this book and I really loved it and needed it! This was just the coziest warmest feel good happy story, I've missed this feeling lately. This is definitely a snuggle up and binge and fall in love with read when you need to believe in love again to just to bring you some peace and happiness!

Thank you so very much again from the bottom of my heart for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book. I absolutely adored it!

[Mary Lawrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good series, & Sarah Bennett’s latest series, Halfmoon Quay, is turning into a good one. Now we’ve been introduced to the main characters (of whom there are many) it all settles down a bit & in this book we focus on Liam (eldest of the four Penrose brothers) & Issy’s story.

Liam & Issy were childhood sweethearts, but lost touch after Liam went away to boarding school. After school Liam went to university & then to London for a high flying career in financial services, whilst Issy stayed in Halfmoon Quay, living with her grandmother after her parents died in a boating accident & together they started the Cosy Coffee Pot. They reconnect when Liam returns home for a sabbatical from his job, but it’s an uncomfortable reunion as each blames the other for the breakup. The reason for their breakup is a mystery, to be solved in these pages. Can they find their way back together? Is it what they both want?

It’s a great story, well-paced - Issy & Liam need time to get used to being geographically closer, & it takes Liam a while to feel settled & accepted back in the wider village community after being away for ten years - though of course his family were delighted to have him back. I felt Liam’s doubt & uncertainty, especially when his great uncle Davy threw him the curveball about the hotel. You do sense that there is still a strong attraction between them, if not yet acknowledged. I loved that each had their support groups: Liam & his brothers, Issy & “the girls”. I enjoyed the sensitive way in which Liam tried to help Issy overcome her (understandable) fear of the sea. This is Sarah Bennett at her best, gradually introducing the community in Halfmoon Quay across the generations with all the interactions. It’s a lovely story, a good summer read. I can’t wait to read the next in this series.

Thanks to Netgalley & Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Everything Changes But You” is the second book in the Halfmoon Quay series by Sarah Bennett. Once again I was drawn right in very early on, by the strong sense of community and belonging that the story evokes. This book is Liam’s story. The eldest Penrose boy who had so much academic potential his teacher managed to get him a place at an exclusive school and as a result he grew up away from home and ended up living and working in London, a high flying city boy.

In this story Liam returns home to discover his Great Uncle’s hotel has been gifted to him. He has to decide if being by the sea, surrounded by his loving family, in a slower way of life is what he now needs or of he should sell the hotel and continue with his life in London. Any changes to be made are of great interest to all the locals and Liam is the local hot topic. He is subjected to unsolicited advice from people making assumptions about where his priorities lie.
Meanwhile he also needs to work through his feelings for Issy. It’s been 15 years since they have spoken a civil word go each other. She was his first girlfriend, the love of his life. She broke up with him when he first left for school by never replying to any of his letters. Issy herself is also very torn because Liam was the love of her life and he broke up with her!

“Everything Changes but You” is an addictively warm and cosy story of lost love, misunderstandings, family, friendship and fun. I was thoroughly absorbed in the story. Willing Liam to make the right choice placing happiness over financial security.

Each member of the Penrose family has their own story to tell. I really want to be there to hear them all and I look forward to reading more books in this series.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everything Changes But You
by Sarah Bennett

At first, I was a bit apprehensive when I noticed that the Kindle edition began with an extensive six-page character outline for the series. My initial concern was that the lengthy list would complicate my reading experience, making it difficult to keep track of the various personalities and their intricate relationships. As someone who generally prefers stories with a more streamlined cast of characters, I found the character list somewhat daunting, feeling it might overwhelm rather than enhance the story.

However, the enchanting setting of Cornwall quickly drew me in. The author’s vivid and evocative descriptions painted a picturesque backdrop of rugged coastlines, charming villages, and rolling hills, truly bringing the location to life. I could almost hear the crashing waves and feel the salty breeze as I read. Although the pace of the story was slower than I typically enjoy—leaving me longing for a more brisk narrative drive—I can appreciate that readers who revel in rich, intricate character backgrounds may find significant value in this approach.

As the story unfolded, I began to recognise the depth in the character arcs, each one intricately woven into the fabric of the plot. Overall, it was an enjoyable reading experience that offered much to contemplate, and I believe it could resonate more deeply with those who appreciate well-developed characters and the intricate interplay of relationships within a richly realised setting.

[Ashley Cohoon · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 out of 5 stars)

Everything Changes But You is one of those small-town second chance romances that just wraps you up in a blanket of feelings and keeps you there. Sarah Bennett brings us back to Halfmoon Quay with Issy and Liam, two characters whose quiet emotional journeys unfold with warmth, honesty, and just enough chaos to feel real.

Issy runs a cozy little café and is doing her best to keep things together, but she can’t help feeling like she’s stuck in place while the rest of the world moves on. Enter Liam, newly returned to town after a tough breakup and disillusionment with his old job. Their connection feels natural and familiar, the kind of slow-burn rekindling that makes you want to root for them from the very first moment.

Yes, the pacing in the beginning is a bit slow, and it takes time to fully invest, but once it picks up, the emotional payoff is worth the wait. Issy’s nan, Maud, is an absolute scene-stealer (again!), wise, supportive, and just the kind of nudge Issy needs. The whole story is steeped in community, gentle humor, and the kind of second chances that feel earned, not rushed.

It’s cozy, heartfelt, and quietly uplifting, a great read for anyone who wants something romantic and comforting without too much fuss. Definitely a solid addition to the series.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything Changes but You by Sarah Bennett, book two in the Halfmoon Quay series is a wonderful, heartwarming, uplifting story of hope and love and second chance, set in the small Cornish village of Halfmoon Quay. Liam Penrose, eldest of four brothers, and Issy Kernow were childhood sweethearts, but lost touch after Liam went away to boarding school. After school Liam went to university and then to London for a high flying career in financial services, whilst Issy stayed in Halfmoon Quay, living with her grandmother after her parents died in a boating accident; starting the Cosy Coffee Pot.

Liam returns home for a sabbatical from his job, as he is burnt out from his high powered job and parted ways with his girlfriend. His Great Uncle Davy threw him for a loop by turning over the family hotel to him. Not sure what to do, Liam decides to look into the hotel, whether or not he wants to return home permanently, if he can renovate the hotel and make it successful, and reconnect with Issy.

It has been 15 years since they have spoken a civil word go each other. Issy was his first girlfriend, the love of his life. She broke up with him after he first left for school by never replying to any of his letters. Issy herself is also very torn because Liam was the love of her life and he broke up with her, replying to any of her letters. This meant someone meddled into their lives, but were confused as to who or why. One thing for sure, the attraction and connection between Liam and Issy never died out; strong as ever. Spending time together and getting reacquainted, Liam and Issy rebuild the strong attraction and chemistry between them, creating a lifelong, adult relationship.

Ms. Bennett wrote a wonderful, enjoyable, emotional, cozy story of lost love, misunderstandings, family, friendship and fun; introducing the community of Halfmoon Quay, across all the generations with their interactions. I loved that each had thei own support groups: Liam and his brothers, Issy and “the girls”. I enjoyed the sensitive way in which Liam tried to help Issy overcome her fear of the sea. I was captured by this story, hoping Liam would make the right choice placing happiness over financial security. It’s a lovely story, a good summer read. I can’t wait to read the next Penrose brother’s story in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
#NetGalley #Boldwood #EverythingChangesButYou #HalfmoonQuay #SarahBennett

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the latest book in the Halfmoon Quay series, readers follow Issy Kernow, a cafe owner struggling with her grief over her parents’ deaths. With only her grandmother Maud left to support her, Issy starts feeling restless and lonely when Maud finds love, but the arrival of Liam Penrose from London shakes things up in town. Taking over a run-down hotel and changing careers is a big change, so Liam’s new future collides with Issy’s present, and both must figure out if some things are meant to be after all. Charming, cozy, and romantic, Issy and Liam’s changing relationship will pull readers into the story, and the emotional beats are absolutely fantastic and well-written. The setting is cozy and vivid, and Bennett’s details really bring the setting to life for readers. The book’s overall atmosphere is charming, and the tropes and characters really add some great depth to the story. Bennett’s characters are the stars of the story, and their dynamic and character growth get readers invested in their relationship. Brilliantly written, charming, and cozy, readers will love the latest Halfmoon Quay romance novel from Sarah Bennett, the beautiful coastal village setting, and the fantastic relationship between Issy and Liam.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Jade aka MrsTosh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't realise when I requested this book that it was the second book in the Halfmoon Quay series. Set on the beautiful cornish coast. However, once I started reading I realised I had read the first book in the series so it was nice to be back with the quays inhabitants.

Izzy isstill running her aunts cafe by the sea, she should be happy but wonders if she is missing out by still being there now her parents have died and even her aunt has moved on with her life. Starting to feel restless she needs to make a decision on what happens next. Things change quickly when her old childhood sweetheart Liam Penrose returns to Halfmood Quay, needed a change from the rat race in London he takes sometime off to come back when he is offered the chance to run his uncles rundown hotel. It might just be the fresh start he needs.

I did enjoy the book, but just felt everything seemed to be a little dragged out. You don't need to have read the previous book as it doesnt have a relevance really to this story. Just fills in a few gaps.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thgouhts and opinions are my own.
Expected publication date: September 8, 2025

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this the second book of the Halfmoon Quay series Issy is running the cafe by the sea, feeling that there must be more to life. Meanwhile Liam is on a sabbatical from his high flying career in London, returning home to his parent's house in the village. He was unexpectedly given the chance to run the run down hotel in the village by his uncle and has to decide whether to take up the offer or return to his career. Things are complicated when he bumps into Issy again as they had been friends from childhood until they split up when he was away at a private school.
I always enjoy books by this author, she sets them in the small communities that I would love to belong to, although she does give the good and the bad about living in them. It raises the question, what is more important, money or happiness and whether it is possible to change course. There is also the question on what caused the split between Issy and Liam and whether they can rekindle their relationship. I became totally engrossed in the story and hoping for the two to make a go of their relationship, highly recommended for those who enjoy sweet second chance Romances.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Kaveesha Bandara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this author is never going to disappoint me. I truly love her clever storytelling mixed with the cozy small-town vibes that make me feel like I am living among her characters in a quaint British village.

This book is the second installment of the Halfmoon Quay series. The story follows Issy, who has built a life for herself running a café in Halfmoon Quay, and Liam, her childhood sweetheart who returns to town hoping for a break from his busy work life but unexpectedly finds himself having to take over his family’s hotel. Old misunderstandings resurface, but as they reconnect, they must decide if they can leave the past behind and embrace a long-awaited second chance at love.

All the characters are well-developed, with just the right amount of emotional depth to make the story feel realistic. The side characters give the book a wonderful sense of a close-knit community, and I love how family and friends always rally around to support each other. I also enjoyed the chemistry between the two main characters, which begins with playful banter before gradually deepening into something more heartfelt.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves cozy small-town romances with heartwarming second-chance love stories.

[DustyBookSniffers - Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything Changes But You is the second instalment in Sarah Bennett’s Halfmoon Quay series, and it’s another lovely, comforting read full of charm, heart, and just the right amount of emotional depth.

I’ll admit, second-chance romance isn’t always my favourite trope, but when it’s done right? It really works, and this one definitely hit the spot.

Issy and Liam are both carrying emotional baggage. Issy is dealing with the grief of losing her parents and a deep fear of the sea. And Liam, burned out from city life, wondered if maybe the life he left behind was the one he really wanted. Their connection felt genuine, mature, and rooted in shared history without getting overly dramatic.

There’s also a strong focus on family, friendship, and community in this book that makes the world of Halfmoon Quay feel alive. I especially loved Issy’s friendship group and her eccentric gran Maud (who lowkey stole a few scenes).

It’s a quick, feel-good read with some touching moments and satisfying character growth. If you enjoy coastal settings, heartfelt stories, and the comfort of small-town fiction, this one’s for you.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Anjana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not realise that this was the second in the series I had already started. The author is one I usually gravitate towards without much forethought. The last book :Just the Beginning, was not as interesting to me because something felt off about the whole thing. I did not enjoy it as much as almost all her previous works.

This time around, I found the spark again. Given the quick changes in relationships here, I should have not liked it as much but it made sense in the context.

Liam is part of the most dominant family in Half-moon quay ( in a good way) and he has not really played that role until his granduncle decides to make a big change. This pushes Liam out of his comfort zone and into thinking of different avenues for his future. It is also why a significant part of his past becomes clear and Liam can find a way to move forward.

The whole extended family is lovely and feel like a treat to read about. The affection everyone shows is not over the top dramatic but just there in the corner keeping the readers feeling warm.

I look forward to the next few stories in the same town and would definitely recommend this to fans of the genre.

I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[Felicity Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book from Sarah Bennett in the new series from Halfmoon Quay. Reading this is pure comfort which is like a coffee and cake in that cafe! Gorgeous escapism, warm hearted romance and totally sweet.
Issy Kernow runs the cafe in the village of Halfmoon Quay, on her own after her parents were lost at sea out in their boat. She hasn’t been near the sea since.
Liam Penrose is back home after having a successful life in London but is burnt out from the high powered job and parting ways with his girlfriend. He’s been given the hotel by his uncle and now he needs to make the decision to stay and modernise the hotel or go back to the grind of life in London.
Will Izzy and Liam get a second chance together after being pulled apart when Liam went off to boarding school on a scholarship?
The families, friends and relationships are very easy to relate with, being a little complicated and complex as in life. This book flows without fault, and is such a joy, pleasure and such a treat to read
Hugely recommended for a cosy curl up this autumn!
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for the early read!!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series and I was thrilled when I discovered that there was a second book coming, so I jumped at the chance to read an early copy. This book focuses on Issy, an independent coffee shop owner and lifelong resident with an unfortunate fear of the ocean after it took her parents from her. Living and working in such close proximity to the sea is incredibly difficult for Issy, and the return of Liam Penrose adds an extra complication to her life.

I liked that the book started straight after the events at the end of book one, and also that it featured another member of the Penrose family as they were my favourite thing about book one. They're a big family with even bigger hearts, and it was great to feel like I was catching up with them again. I really felt for Liam as he's been presented with a big conundrum; to give up everything he's worked for in London, or to take on a new challenge and return home?

I really enjoyed my return visit to Halfmoon Quay and I'm crossing my fingers for another book in the series; I think Christmas with the Penrose family would be magical so I'd love a Christmas instalment in the series. I hadn't read any Sarah Bennett books before reading this series and I really feel like I'd been missing out now. I'm definitely adding some more of her books to my ever growing TBR pile.

[Bekky Clarke · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I didn’t realise when going in to this that it was part of a series however this didn’t affect the read because I think it worked perfectly as a standalone read too. However I did find it quite daunting seeing just how many characters were listed at the start because it wasn’t sure if wrap my head around everyone - but this wasn’t an issue at all and I found the array of characters added another layer to the story.

I loved the pacing of the story and I loved getting to know Liam and Issy. I think I’d love to go and visit all the location but especially going for cake and coffee at the coffee pot would be perfect right now!

I loved the theming of this and the whole misunderstanding/tense start between Issy and Liam had me tearing my hair out because I just wanted them to resolved everything. I also spent many a moment willing Liam to make the right choice regarding the hotel too!

All in all this was fabulous and I will be going back and reading book 1 in the series and also keeping my eye out for the later books too!

[Erin Sparkes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Two in Sarah Bennett Halfmoon Bay series is set to release October 7, 2025! #everythingchangesbutyou follows Issy as she runs her cafe in the small community she grew up on, situated on the English coast. After losing her parents at seventeen just weeks after her childhood sweetheart Liam stopped writing to her from boarding school Issy has had her share of heartbreak. Liam moved to London after school and rarely came home for visits, so she has been able to avoid him for the most part, until now. Liam’s uncle has left him his hotel, and it seems like Liam is considering moving home. Liam is conflicted about moving home, especially since the former love of his life can’t seem to stand him.
I really love Bennett’s brand of cozy fiction and was so thrilled to get to dive into the next chapter of this delightful series a little early. Thank you so much to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for making it possible.

[Bianca Duthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in a series, but I hadnt read book 1 and still managed with this perfectly. There is a character list at the start of the book which may help you but for me there were so many names I knew the best way for me to learn was just to dive right in.
This is a second chance romance, and those always seem to hit the spot.
There are 4 Penrose brothers so I do wonder if there's another couple of stories to come in this series. I hope so as I believe there is still a lot to be explored, especially with the younger siblings.
There was a couple of bits I had guessed fairly early on would happen, but I still enjoyed the storytelling.
I loved all the characters. Issy and Liam were the main ones here but I enjoyed meeting their friends, family and townspeople. Adam gives me some uncertainty at times so I look forward to seeing if we learn more about him.
This is a lovey story, written with real heart and will do well with those who love a light romantic drama.

[MMJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

A mildly interesting installment in what is meant to become a sprawling universe ripe to be plucked for future Hallmark movies. The Cornish setting will be beautiful on the screen; here it was scarce. The initial character list proved daunting and it was necessary to refer back to it in order to plod through the story; arranging it as a family tree would have helped the reader gain a quicker understanding. Plot points were telegraphed so boldly that there was little intrigue and the MCs jump from estranged to entangled took no time or effort so it was difficult to buy into their passion. All in all, it was a pleasant enough story but felt very much a place-maker as so much effort was involved in setting the foundation for future stories.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for this free ARC. Opinions stated here are wholly my own.

[K Garrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgallery and Boldbooks, for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I had not realised that this was the second book in a series, while I don’t think you need to read the first book, I was a little lost and confused by all the characters. There is a list of the characters and their connections at the start of the book, which is essential for understanding who anyone is.

I did not finish this book because of the slower pace and confusion about who everyone is and their backstory. I’m giving this book three stars due to the fact that I did not read the first book, which I think is the main cause of my confusion and lack of interest in the main characters. The plot is lovely. I love small-town romances where everyone is connected and has funny banter with each other. You don’t need to read the first book, but I would highly recommend doing so.

[Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though it is a series, this book is so perfectly written that you can read it as a stand-alone. I read the first book, and I was happy to see the old characters back again.

This story follows Issy, who owns a cafe in Halfmoon Quay. She and Liam Penrose have history. He seems to have forgotten all about it, but Issy still remembers the past. Liam is home feeling sorry for himself and trying to figure out what to do next with his life and the hotel he inherited.

Issy and Liam's story is all about second chances and healing from the past. These two characters are so loveable, and as you slowly learn about them, you can't help but root for them.

Thank you, Netgalley and Boldwood Books, for this lovely eArc. All opinions are entirely my own.

[Macy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet small town, slow burn, second chance romance that is absolutely adorable. Issy and Liam are both going through some things in their lives and neither is terribly happy. They’re both feeling a little stuck and unsure of what to do next. When circumstances bring them back together, we get to see the evolution of their relationship. It’s a wonderfully smart, emotional, honest, enjoyable read with just the right amount of humor to make it not too heavy. And wait until you meet Maud. She is fantabulous. I didn’t read the first in the series, am going back to check it out, but had no issues reading as a stand alone.


I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Pà · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this one. The seaside setting gave everything a gentle charm. Issy came across strong but still marked by old heartbreak, and I liked how she kept moving forward with her café and her community. Liam, on the other hand, brought some tension at first, but I appreciated how his return forced both of them to face the past. The writing was engaging, and full of warmth. Overall, it was perfect as a comfort read, with just enough drama and tenderness to keep me turning the pages. Thank you so much to the author and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review

[Barb Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Issy runs a cafe in Halfmoon Quay, and her former boyfriend Liam is back from London on a sabbatical from his job. They both believed that the other broke up without ever talking. Issy can hold a grudge, and she did for a long time. Liam is unhappy in London, and his uncle has given him the family inn to run. As he realizes how much work is needed, he second guesses his thought on staying in Halfmoon Quay. As Issy and Liam work out the details of what really happened back when, they realize that they still love one another. I really enjoyed this sweet romance and highly recommend it.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️
Liam and Issy were so in love with each other when they were still “kids”. But years of misunderstanding kept them apart till Liam returned to his hometown to take over his uncle’s seafront hotel.

I enjoyed seeing their gradual reconciliation as they talked things out. I also loved how they supported each other with their respective careers—brainstorming ideas together all the time. When it was time for Issy to try to overcome her trauma, it was amazing to see how Liam helped her through it all.

I truly enjoyed reading this second chance romance and I would love to dwell in the Halfmoon Quay world again. I hope to read the remaining books in the series soon!

[Susanne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved being back in Halfmoon Quay and getting to meet another Penrose brother. Liam this time. He and Issy have a history, one that they discover isn’t all they thought it was, someone else tampered with their choices leading to teenage heartache. Now together they find a new friendship and relationship while unravelling the past secrets.

I loved the whole thing, how their extended family stepped in to support with business and personal issues, seeing Jago’s reaction to Liam when he told him how unhappy he’d been in London was so moving. His thought he’d given his son exactly what he wanted. But now thanks to uncle Davy, Liam can start afresh in Halfmoon Quay and build his life with Issy.

I can’t wait for the next instalment to see everyone again and catch up with the goings on of Halfmoon Quay.

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a pleasure to revisit Halfmoon Quay.
This book focuses on Liam and Izzy, they were childhood sweethearts until Liam went to boarding school. The pair wrote to each other but suddenly the letters stopped and now many years later Liam returns home from his high flying London job, Izzy is still smarting from the rejection.
The Penrose family and the community welcome Liam home so it’s time for him to decide what he wants to do.
Liam and Izzy were meant to be together and I loved their story even though I wasn’t sure if they were destined to be!
Filled with families, drama and romance this book was an absolute treat, I’m already looking forward to the next book.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to be back in Halfmoon Quay. I have missed everyone there since reading Just the Beginning, the first book in the Halfmoon Quay series. Everything Changes But You was just as marvelous as the first book.
The focus of this story is Issy and Liam. The relationship between these two is just the right mixture of everything happening to them alone as well as together. The characters in this book fill in the holes of the story and this makes it a perfect story.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you NetGalley, Sarah Bennett and Boldwood Books for the copy of the book Everything Changes But You. This is my personal review.