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Tangerine Street Romance #2
The Boardwalk Antiques Shop
Welcome to Tangerine Street
Tangerine Street is a must-see tourist stop with a colorful mix of one-of-a-kind boutiques, unique restaurants, eclectic museums, quaint bookstores, and renowned bed-and-breakfasts. The Boardwalk Antiques Shop is an exclusive shop where every antique has a story, and each story possesses the gift to match true love. The customer who buys an antique also buys its story and soon discovers that its story unites the past with the present, creating an unexpected romantic future…
“Where Every Antique has a Story”
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE: Jennifer is newest owner of The Boardwalk Antiques Shop, inherited from her aunt. When Jennifer arrives in Seashell Beach, her first priority is to meet with a realtor to sell the place. She laughs out loud when she discovers the realtor’s name is Mr. Studly. But the more Jennifer gets to know Paul Studly, the more she finds reasons to stay and run the antiques shop herself.
SOLVING FOR X: Abbie is only a little bit obsessed with antiques, okay, a lot. So when Holden, an out-of-town business executive, tries to purchase the tin soldiers that Abbie’s had her eye on, Abbie refuses to back down. The antiques shop owner issues a challenge: whoever comes up with the best story for wanting the soldiers, will become the new owner. Abbie isn’t about to let some fancy executive beat her out, no matter how charming he is.
A STITCH IN TIME: When Cate learns that antiques dealer Henry Lancaster has purchased the sewing machine left to her by her grandmother, Cate is determined to get it back. What she isn’t counting on is that Henry has just as much claim as Cate. And it doesn’t help that Henry is good-looking and apparently single. Getting to know Henry becomes an unexpected surprise, sending her life into a sudden detour.
Tangerine Street is a must-see tourist stop with a colorful mix of one-of-a-kind boutiques, unique restaurants, eclectic museums, quaint bookstores, and renowned bed-and-breakfasts. The Boardwalk Antiques Shop is an exclusive shop where every antique has a story, and each story possesses the gift to match true love. The customer who buys an antique also buys its story and soon discovers that its story unites the past with the present, creating an unexpected romantic future…
“Where Every Antique has a Story”
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE: Jennifer is newest owner of The Boardwalk Antiques Shop, inherited from her aunt. When Jennifer arrives in Seashell Beach, her first priority is to meet with a realtor to sell the place. She laughs out loud when she discovers the realtor’s name is Mr. Studly. But the more Jennifer gets to know Paul Studly, the more she finds reasons to stay and run the antiques shop herself.
SOLVING FOR X: Abbie is only a little bit obsessed with antiques, okay, a lot. So when Holden, an out-of-town business executive, tries to purchase the tin soldiers that Abbie’s had her eye on, Abbie refuses to back down. The antiques shop owner issues a challenge: whoever comes up with the best story for wanting the soldiers, will become the new owner. Abbie isn’t about to let some fancy executive beat her out, no matter how charming he is.
A STITCH IN TIME: When Cate learns that antiques dealer Henry Lancaster has purchased the sewing machine left to her by her grandmother, Cate is determined to get it back. What she isn’t counting on is that Henry has just as much claim as Cate. And it doesn’t help that Henry is good-looking and apparently single. Getting to know Henry becomes an unexpected surprise, sending her life into a sudden detour.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
37 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Julie Wright
61 books722 followersJulie Wright wrote her first book when she was fifteen. She's written over twenty novels since then. She is a Whitney Awards winner for best romance with her books Cross My Heart and Lies Jane Austen Told Me, The American Library Association listed “Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me” in their 2020 top ten best romances and "A Captain for Caroline Gray" in their 2021 top ten best romances.
She has one husband, five kids, two grandbabies, one dog, and a varying amount of houseplants (depending on attrition).
She loves writing, reading, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner.
She hates mayonnaise.
She has one husband, five kids, two grandbabies, one dog, and a varying amount of houseplants (depending on attrition).
She loves writing, reading, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner.
She hates mayonnaise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
October 30, 2017
This is second in a very loosely connected series. I don't think order really matters, though you do occasionally see characters from the previous book in this one. Also, like the first, the three authors go to some lengths to obscure who wrote which piece. Which is odd, but at least I was expecting it this time.
This book is better than the first, at least in aggregate. The first two stories are outstanding. The third outright sucked. Let's take them on individually.
The first, Message in a Bottle was predictable, but in that satisfying way you get when you like the characters and the story fits how you'd like it to. I particularly liked how Paul helped Jennifer reconnect with her brother and start patching over his (the brother's) resentment. And it was very satisfying to see Jennifer sink into her role with the store and develop a love for people and place in a way that you could see she hadn't had before. So a solid 4½ stars that I'd round to five without hesitation.
The second story, Solving for X was even better. And let me tell you, that was a huge surprise. Abbie would have been a near-impossible character to pull off, I think. She's smart and insightful and capable, but also deeply scattered but not terribly concerned about it. She has the whole go-with-the-flow vibe going that is so often glamorized in ways you'd almost certainly find annoying in person. Not so here as it becomes clear that her life is structured exactly how she desires it to be and that she has more or less designed her commitments and deadlines with her capabilities and proclivities in mind. Holden sees that and more than just the surface that her previous boyfriends have and it was fascinating to see her adjust to someone who actually got her and wanted the whole package and not just the parts he found useful for a time. Their connection felt true and honest in ways that made my heart melt. This was a solid five-star story and I just loved it.
The third story, A Stitch in Time, was stupid. The "relationship" had practically no foundation, devolved into zingy kissing way too fast, included backtracking and stupid decisions, and ended with no idea how they planned to unify careers on fundamentally different paths. It was headed to two-star territory fast but then Henry put his head so far up his nethers he could fart out his nostrils and I just lost all patience. It was close enough to the end by that time that I finished the story on inertia and maybe a blind hope that something that didn't suck might happen. No such luck.
So I was kind of hoping I'd have a collection of stories that warranted five stars. I'm keeping it at four, but I feel kind of like I'm cheating to do it because that last story was awful. The first two rocked. Skip the third and you have an excellent book. Sigh.
This book is better than the first, at least in aggregate. The first two stories are outstanding. The third outright sucked. Let's take them on individually.
The first, Message in a Bottle was predictable, but in that satisfying way you get when you like the characters and the story fits how you'd like it to. I particularly liked how Paul helped Jennifer reconnect with her brother and start patching over his (the brother's) resentment. And it was very satisfying to see Jennifer sink into her role with the store and develop a love for people and place in a way that you could see she hadn't had before. So a solid 4½ stars that I'd round to five without hesitation.
The second story, Solving for X was even better. And let me tell you, that was a huge surprise. Abbie would have been a near-impossible character to pull off, I think. She's smart and insightful and capable, but also deeply scattered but not terribly concerned about it. She has the whole go-with-the-flow vibe going that is so often glamorized in ways you'd almost certainly find annoying in person. Not so here as it becomes clear that her life is structured exactly how she desires it to be and that she has more or less designed her commitments and deadlines with her capabilities and proclivities in mind. Holden sees that and more than just the surface that her previous boyfriends have and it was fascinating to see her adjust to someone who actually got her and wanted the whole package and not just the parts he found useful for a time. Their connection felt true and honest in ways that made my heart melt. This was a solid five-star story and I just loved it.
The third story, A Stitch in Time, was stupid. The "relationship" had practically no foundation, devolved into zingy kissing way too fast, included backtracking and stupid decisions, and ended with no idea how they planned to unify careers on fundamentally different paths. It was headed to two-star territory fast but then Henry put his head so far up his nethers he could fart out his nostrils and I just lost all patience. It was close enough to the end by that time that I finished the story on inertia and maybe a blind hope that something that didn't suck might happen. No such luck.
So I was kind of hoping I'd have a collection of stories that warranted five stars. I'm keeping it at four, but I feel kind of like I'm cheating to do it because that last story was awful. The first two rocked. Skip the third and you have an excellent book. Sigh.
October 9, 2014
Just finished writing my "part" in this book and just read Julie's part. Loved Julie's! And now tapping my nails, waiting for Melanie to send me her part. Can't wait for everyone to read this in January! We'll be putting it on pre-order soon.
October 2, 2014
Five stars because I wrote it. Or part of it, anyway. Biased? YES.
February 18, 2015
I love this new Tangerine Street series. The first book, The Fortune Café was really cute and I was looking forward to reading this book and I can’t wait to read more about some of the other shops along Tangerine Street. I wish it was a real place to visit.
Message in a Bottle
This was a fun story. I know next to nothing about antiques, but I do love walking through antique shops and watching TV shows about them on occasion. I had an easy time picturing the Boardwalk Antique shop and would love to visit a shop where each item had a story. Jennifer inherited the shop from her aunt, an aunt she had grown estranged from over the years. It was sad that they had grown apart; if they had accepted each other they could have had a beautiful relationship. Anyway, I liked that Jennifer was really able to open her mind and take the time to figure out what she wanted out of life. The romance was sweet, a tiny love-triangle and I’m glad Jennifer made the right choice! I’m anti-pining away on unrequited love. Cute story and a great start to the anthology.
Solving for X
For the most part I really liked this one. It was a cute story about two opposites finding each other. While I liked Abbie, she also drove me a little batty. For someone that is all about people being themselves she was really judgmental and immediately set about trying to change Holden. She acted like her way of living was the only real way to live. The thing is, her way of living would drive me nuts, but I have no problem with people that view life that way and live that way. She was endearing, fun, kind and a great person. However, for someone that was so guarded against people trying to change her she was pretty judgmental about everyone else. Part of being open-minded is truly accepting that people can be happy living life differently than you. She may not be happy in a corporate environment, but some people are. In this case Holden had maybe gotten in some bad habits and Abbie was able to help him loosen up, but that’s because he wanted to. That kind of change has to be natural for it to stick. I think if Abbie accepts Holden for who he is and doesn’t try and change him and vice versa, then they could have a great HEA. Maybe they’d be a good balance for each other. Overall, a cute story.
A Stitch in Time
This was my favorite of the three. I love the relationship and tension between Henry and Cate. I think this would make a fun full-length novel, but it was a fun short story as well. Cate hurries home when she learns her favorite grandmother has passed away. The only thing she wants is an old sewing machine that her grandmother had promised her. Henry got there first though and bought it up as a gift for his mother. I thought they had a fun relationship and it was fun reading their story.
Overall, this was a fun anthology. Each story was fun and unique and I like how they are all brought together through the love of antiques. Cute!
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon Kindle
This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.
Message in a Bottle
This was a fun story. I know next to nothing about antiques, but I do love walking through antique shops and watching TV shows about them on occasion. I had an easy time picturing the Boardwalk Antique shop and would love to visit a shop where each item had a story. Jennifer inherited the shop from her aunt, an aunt she had grown estranged from over the years. It was sad that they had grown apart; if they had accepted each other they could have had a beautiful relationship. Anyway, I liked that Jennifer was really able to open her mind and take the time to figure out what she wanted out of life. The romance was sweet, a tiny love-triangle and I’m glad Jennifer made the right choice! I’m anti-pining away on unrequited love. Cute story and a great start to the anthology.
Solving for X
For the most part I really liked this one. It was a cute story about two opposites finding each other. While I liked Abbie, she also drove me a little batty. For someone that is all about people being themselves she was really judgmental and immediately set about trying to change Holden. She acted like her way of living was the only real way to live. The thing is, her way of living would drive me nuts, but I have no problem with people that view life that way and live that way. She was endearing, fun, kind and a great person. However, for someone that was so guarded against people trying to change her she was pretty judgmental about everyone else. Part of being open-minded is truly accepting that people can be happy living life differently than you. She may not be happy in a corporate environment, but some people are. In this case Holden had maybe gotten in some bad habits and Abbie was able to help him loosen up, but that’s because he wanted to. That kind of change has to be natural for it to stick. I think if Abbie accepts Holden for who he is and doesn’t try and change him and vice versa, then they could have a great HEA. Maybe they’d be a good balance for each other. Overall, a cute story.
A Stitch in Time
This was my favorite of the three. I love the relationship and tension between Henry and Cate. I think this would make a fun full-length novel, but it was a fun short story as well. Cate hurries home when she learns her favorite grandmother has passed away. The only thing she wants is an old sewing machine that her grandmother had promised her. Henry got there first though and bought it up as a gift for his mother. I thought they had a fun relationship and it was fun reading their story.
Overall, this was a fun anthology. Each story was fun and unique and I like how they are all brought together through the love of antiques. Cute!
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon Kindle
This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.
January 17, 2015
I loved this book! The Boardwalk Antiques Store Shop is the second book in The Tangerine Street Romance series, but can be read independently. I still highly recommend reading The Fortune Cafe, because it was wonderful as well. I'm going back to read reread it next. The book contains three stories, all related to the antiques store.
Message in a Bottle
The story takes place in a beach town in California, and in this case focuses on the Boardwalk Antiques Shop. Jennifer Day has just inherited the shop from her aunt. Her relationship with her aunt was somewhat strained so Jennifer comes to town planning to sell the shop and get back to her life. She hires a realtor named Paul Studly because his last name amuses her. Once she meets him, she sees that the name truly fits the man. The more time she spends in Seashell Beach, the more she learns that she and her aunt had more in common than she thought, and that she might have ended up exactly where she needs to be.
Solve for X
Sparks fly when local customer, Abbie, and weekender, Holden, both wish to buy the same set of toy soldiers. Jennifer tells them that whoever can give her the best story for why they want them will be able to buy them. Abbie and Holden might have just found more than a set of soldiers at the Antique Shop. They may have found love as well.
A Stitch in Time
Cate is overseas when her grandmother dies, and when the estate sale takes place. When her cousin asks if there's anything she wants her to save, Cate asks for her grandmother's sewing machine, only to arrive there and find that her cousin has sold it to an antiques dealer. When Cate asks Henry Lancaster to buy it back, she realizes they both might share a claim to it, and an unexpected friendship begins.
Thoughts:
I loved this book. I have never really been into antiques, but I loved the concept in this story that there is a story with every item, quite literally written out on cards. The customers don't just buy an item, but its history as well. The romances were sweet, and I loved how the characters changed. At first meeting, Holden seemed overly serious and entitled, and Abbie seemed flighty, by the end of their story they had both grown on me, and I loved the emails they sent back and forth. I loved the little things, like how Jennifer picked her realtor by his last name, and kept teasing him about being studly.
Overall, it was a fun collection, full of wit and romance. I highly recommend it!
Content: clean
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Message in a Bottle
The story takes place in a beach town in California, and in this case focuses on the Boardwalk Antiques Shop. Jennifer Day has just inherited the shop from her aunt. Her relationship with her aunt was somewhat strained so Jennifer comes to town planning to sell the shop and get back to her life. She hires a realtor named Paul Studly because his last name amuses her. Once she meets him, she sees that the name truly fits the man. The more time she spends in Seashell Beach, the more she learns that she and her aunt had more in common than she thought, and that she might have ended up exactly where she needs to be.
Solve for X
Sparks fly when local customer, Abbie, and weekender, Holden, both wish to buy the same set of toy soldiers. Jennifer tells them that whoever can give her the best story for why they want them will be able to buy them. Abbie and Holden might have just found more than a set of soldiers at the Antique Shop. They may have found love as well.
A Stitch in Time
Cate is overseas when her grandmother dies, and when the estate sale takes place. When her cousin asks if there's anything she wants her to save, Cate asks for her grandmother's sewing machine, only to arrive there and find that her cousin has sold it to an antiques dealer. When Cate asks Henry Lancaster to buy it back, she realizes they both might share a claim to it, and an unexpected friendship begins.
Thoughts:
I loved this book. I have never really been into antiques, but I loved the concept in this story that there is a story with every item, quite literally written out on cards. The customers don't just buy an item, but its history as well. The romances were sweet, and I loved how the characters changed. At first meeting, Holden seemed overly serious and entitled, and Abbie seemed flighty, by the end of their story they had both grown on me, and I loved the emails they sent back and forth. I loved the little things, like how Jennifer picked her realtor by his last name, and kept teasing him about being studly.
Overall, it was a fun collection, full of wit and romance. I highly recommend it!
Content: clean
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2015
Hands down I just love this series!!! I always think that I'm going into it with too high of expectations, but every time I end up loving each of these short stories. I love how the antiques shop plays a role, some more minor than others, in each story and we also get to stop in to some of the other shops on Tangerine Street, including the home of the famous fortune cookies from the first book in the series.
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE: I knew who the author of this one was from page one without looking. The banter, teasing, flirting, humor, romance, sweetness... Yeah. Pretty much my ideal romance all in a nice little tight package that I loved from beginning to end.
SOLVING FOR X: This story cracked me up on so many levels and so many times. I loved Abbie's character! Loved her! Then you play this straight-laced, up-tight businessman... Pure genius. It worked and they balanced each other marvelously. There were some good moments in this one.
A STITCH IN TIME: This one was a little more on the serious side, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the whole back-story behind the sewing machine and how a house plays a role. Cate and Henry were also characters I really liked and I liked together. Another great, quick, and sweet read.
So if you enjoy reading great chick-lit and contemporary romance, then definitely grab this one. For being novellas they're marvelously written and thoroughly entertaining. My only real complaint? That this series isn't offered in paperback so I can't add it to my physical bookshelves.
Content: Some mild language, but otherwise clean.
Source: Received through eBooksforReview.com, which did not affect my review in any way.
MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE: I knew who the author of this one was from page one without looking. The banter, teasing, flirting, humor, romance, sweetness... Yeah. Pretty much my ideal romance all in a nice little tight package that I loved from beginning to end.
SOLVING FOR X: This story cracked me up on so many levels and so many times. I loved Abbie's character! Loved her! Then you play this straight-laced, up-tight businessman... Pure genius. It worked and they balanced each other marvelously. There were some good moments in this one.
A STITCH IN TIME: This one was a little more on the serious side, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the whole back-story behind the sewing machine and how a house plays a role. Cate and Henry were also characters I really liked and I liked together. Another great, quick, and sweet read.
So if you enjoy reading great chick-lit and contemporary romance, then definitely grab this one. For being novellas they're marvelously written and thoroughly entertaining. My only real complaint? That this series isn't offered in paperback so I can't add it to my physical bookshelves.
Content: Some mild language, but otherwise clean.
Source: Received through eBooksforReview.com, which did not affect my review in any way.
July 4, 2015
4.5 Stars
Okay... I am just going to start out by saying I want MORE! Lol. Each of these stories would make an amazing full length novel and I would be the first in line to buy each one of them! ;) The only problem I have with novellas is they just aren't long enough! Just as you start to get invested in the story... BAM! It's over! *sigh* I really try to stay away from them but when you have 3 amazing authors like Julie, Melanie and Heather, you just CAN'T stay away! They provide the perfect little getaway from this thing called LIFE! ;)
Message In A Bottle
Jennifer has spent most of her life trying to avoid her Aunt Daisy. She thinks that Daisy doesn't understand her and that she doesn't like her much. But when Daisy passes away and leaves her Antiques Shop to Jennifer she can't help but wonder why. She plans to go to California, sell it and then be back in Oregon as quickly as she can. She knows there is nothing there that will make her want to stay in California and run her aunt's shop. Que realtor, Paul Studly, a mysterious message in a bottle and the history behind each and every piece in Daisy's shop. Maybe Daisy knew just what Jennifer needed after all.
Solving For X
Abbie is obsessed with antiques and even though she is running out of room in her small home, she is determined to get the little tin soldiers she sees in the window display. Out-of-town Holden sees the same tin soldiers and he is also determined to get them as well. Jennifer decides that the one to come up with the best story would be the new owner of the soldiers. When more than just the tin soldiers bring Abbie and Holden together, will Abbie continue to run from him or will she finally see that not all corporate suits are the same and that it's okay to take a chance on love? Will Holden continue to see only business deal after business deal or will he see that there is more to life and take that same chance on love?
A Stitch In Time
Cate was traveling for work when her grandmother passed away and she ended up missing her funeral. The one and only thing she wanted was her grandma's antique sewing machine. Her snobby cousin ends up selling it to an antiques dealer, Henry, and Cate will do anything to get it back from him. When Cate and Henry finally meet sparks fly and there is an instant connection between them. But that doesn't mean that it's all smooth sailing for these two... outside forces are at play and are trying to keep them apart. But as we know any HEA is worth fighting for... ;)
Okay... I am just going to start out by saying I want MORE! Lol. Each of these stories would make an amazing full length novel and I would be the first in line to buy each one of them! ;) The only problem I have with novellas is they just aren't long enough! Just as you start to get invested in the story... BAM! It's over! *sigh* I really try to stay away from them but when you have 3 amazing authors like Julie, Melanie and Heather, you just CAN'T stay away! They provide the perfect little getaway from this thing called LIFE! ;)
Message In A Bottle
Jennifer has spent most of her life trying to avoid her Aunt Daisy. She thinks that Daisy doesn't understand her and that she doesn't like her much. But when Daisy passes away and leaves her Antiques Shop to Jennifer she can't help but wonder why. She plans to go to California, sell it and then be back in Oregon as quickly as she can. She knows there is nothing there that will make her want to stay in California and run her aunt's shop. Que realtor, Paul Studly, a mysterious message in a bottle and the history behind each and every piece in Daisy's shop. Maybe Daisy knew just what Jennifer needed after all.
Solving For X
Abbie is obsessed with antiques and even though she is running out of room in her small home, she is determined to get the little tin soldiers she sees in the window display. Out-of-town Holden sees the same tin soldiers and he is also determined to get them as well. Jennifer decides that the one to come up with the best story would be the new owner of the soldiers. When more than just the tin soldiers bring Abbie and Holden together, will Abbie continue to run from him or will she finally see that not all corporate suits are the same and that it's okay to take a chance on love? Will Holden continue to see only business deal after business deal or will he see that there is more to life and take that same chance on love?
A Stitch In Time
Cate was traveling for work when her grandmother passed away and she ended up missing her funeral. The one and only thing she wanted was her grandma's antique sewing machine. Her snobby cousin ends up selling it to an antiques dealer, Henry, and Cate will do anything to get it back from him. When Cate and Henry finally meet sparks fly and there is an instant connection between them. But that doesn't mean that it's all smooth sailing for these two... outside forces are at play and are trying to keep them apart. But as we know any HEA is worth fighting for... ;)
April 3, 2015
Seashell Beach is an idyllic setting, and these three short stories show that love is always in the air there. The three stories all tie-in with one shop, The Boardwalk Antiques Shop. Everything there has a story, and every person who comes in seems to have one as well. Jennifer inherited the shop from an aunt she never really liked, but she begins to wonder if maybe she didn't know her aunt all that well. Abbie is a girl who loves to read and write a good story. So one day when she sees something she's dying for in the antiques shop, she's not pleased to see she has competition. Very handsome competition. Cate's beloved grandmother has just passed away, and Cate's cousin has sold the one thing that Cate truly wanted of her grandmother's- an antique sewing machine. Cate tries desperate to get the machine back, but the dealer who bought it is disarming in a number of ways. All three girls will find what they least expected at The Boardwalk Antiques Shop.
I read The Fortune Cafe, so it was fun to revisit the somewhat familiar town of Seashell Beach. The authors do an amazing job of painting a picture of this town. I really felt like I was there on a vacation myself. The three stories are all love stories, but they take very different approaches to love. Some of the characters like to jump right in while others are a bit more hesitant. Past and present seems to collide for all these people. I love the overarching storyline of The Boardwalk Antiques Shop itself. It almost becomes a character in the story.
Often when I read short story collections like this, I have a favorite or perhaps one I didn't like as much as the others. This wasn't the case with this book. They are all very fun and sweet at the same time. They all managed to keep my interest very well and tell a lot of story in just a few pages. I think this would be a perfect beach read. I mean you practically feel like you are there already anyway! These stories were very enjoyable and quick reads. They just made me feel happy, and who can stay away from a book like that? Check out this book if you love sweet romances that make you feel good.
Book provided for review.
I read The Fortune Cafe, so it was fun to revisit the somewhat familiar town of Seashell Beach. The authors do an amazing job of painting a picture of this town. I really felt like I was there on a vacation myself. The three stories are all love stories, but they take very different approaches to love. Some of the characters like to jump right in while others are a bit more hesitant. Past and present seems to collide for all these people. I love the overarching storyline of The Boardwalk Antiques Shop itself. It almost becomes a character in the story.
Often when I read short story collections like this, I have a favorite or perhaps one I didn't like as much as the others. This wasn't the case with this book. They are all very fun and sweet at the same time. They all managed to keep my interest very well and tell a lot of story in just a few pages. I think this would be a perfect beach read. I mean you practically feel like you are there already anyway! These stories were very enjoyable and quick reads. They just made me feel happy, and who can stay away from a book like that? Check out this book if you love sweet romances that make you feel good.
Book provided for review.
April 4, 2015
I love how the author's have teamed up to create a book with three separate stories set in the same location with crossover of characters.
This book is perfect for the times when you have a short period to read a book. The book has three separate stories that make it easy to spend a short time on a story, but where each story has the same setting it makes it easy to feel like the book is not made of short stories.
I really liked all of the characters. The stories and romance didn't feel rushed. I was very happy with the overall feel of the stories and the setting sounds heavenly.
This book is perfect for the times when you have a short period to read a book. The book has three separate stories that make it easy to spend a short time on a story, but where each story has the same setting it makes it easy to feel like the book is not made of short stories.
I really liked all of the characters. The stories and romance didn't feel rushed. I was very happy with the overall feel of the stories and the setting sounds heavenly.
January 29, 2015
Super cute!
Content: Couple mild swear words
Content: Couple mild swear words
February 2, 2015
Another great story collection by a group of great authors!
Part One: Message in a Bottle
Jennifer Day has inherited her Aunt Daisy's antique shop. She is probably the only one of the cousins who didn't want it, and yet Aunt Daisy left it to her. She and her friend Eddie have a simple strategy for her to go to Seashell Beach and: Face it. Conquer it. Come home. But when she meets the realtor she has hired to help her sell the shop, Paul Studly, she starts to see a lot of things in a different light. Paul is always doing things for others and now everyone is cheering him on with Jennifer. Even though her staying means the loss of a sale for him, he wins big if she decides to stay!
Part Two: Solving for X
Holden and Abbie meet in Jennifer's antique store fighting over a group of antique toy soldiers. Holden is in town with his company because his CEO thinks he needs to stop burning his co-workers out and re-catch the vision of his company. It turns out that Abbie is the consultant who is hired to help his company. Abbie has tried dating 3 stuffy corporate types who came to Seashell Beach, but ultimately they wanted to change her so she isn't even willing to give Holden a chance. But Holden is patient - or in his own words, he isn't patient but he is a good listener. And he understands that if he pushes her, she will retreat. And so he forces himself to be patient. I loved Abbie's approach to helping the company with their business strategy.
Part Three: A Stitch in Time
All Cate Pierpont wants to inherit from her grandmother is her old sewing machine - the one she and her grandmother had used together. Her grandmother had promised it to her, but Cate was out of the country when her grandmother passes away and by the time she gets to her grandmother's house her cousin Amber has sold the sewing machine in the estate sale. Amber wasn't supposed to sell it, but when she was offered three times the asking price, her greed won and she sold it. Now Cate has to convince Henry Lancaster III of Lancaster Antiques, Dealer in Fine Antiques, to sell it back to her. But Henry has very personal reasons for wanting to keep the antique. As he gets to know Cate better, his reasons for keeping the sewing machine start to change...
Content: Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
Part One: Message in a Bottle
Jennifer Day has inherited her Aunt Daisy's antique shop. She is probably the only one of the cousins who didn't want it, and yet Aunt Daisy left it to her. She and her friend Eddie have a simple strategy for her to go to Seashell Beach and: Face it. Conquer it. Come home. But when she meets the realtor she has hired to help her sell the shop, Paul Studly, she starts to see a lot of things in a different light. Paul is always doing things for others and now everyone is cheering him on with Jennifer. Even though her staying means the loss of a sale for him, he wins big if she decides to stay!
Part Two: Solving for X
Holden and Abbie meet in Jennifer's antique store fighting over a group of antique toy soldiers. Holden is in town with his company because his CEO thinks he needs to stop burning his co-workers out and re-catch the vision of his company. It turns out that Abbie is the consultant who is hired to help his company. Abbie has tried dating 3 stuffy corporate types who came to Seashell Beach, but ultimately they wanted to change her so she isn't even willing to give Holden a chance. But Holden is patient - or in his own words, he isn't patient but he is a good listener. And he understands that if he pushes her, she will retreat. And so he forces himself to be patient. I loved Abbie's approach to helping the company with their business strategy.
Part Three: A Stitch in Time
All Cate Pierpont wants to inherit from her grandmother is her old sewing machine - the one she and her grandmother had used together. Her grandmother had promised it to her, but Cate was out of the country when her grandmother passes away and by the time she gets to her grandmother's house her cousin Amber has sold the sewing machine in the estate sale. Amber wasn't supposed to sell it, but when she was offered three times the asking price, her greed won and she sold it. Now Cate has to convince Henry Lancaster III of Lancaster Antiques, Dealer in Fine Antiques, to sell it back to her. But Henry has very personal reasons for wanting to keep the antique. As he gets to know Cate better, his reasons for keeping the sewing machine start to change...
Content: Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
February 26, 2015
4.5 stars overall. This was a fun, romantic set of novellas. I have never been interested in antiques but this makes me feel like I am missing out, lol! There are three novellas, and while each novella could be read separate, they do have characters from the previous novellas in some of them.
The first story, "Message in a Bottle," introduces us to the antiques. Each antique tells a story and our main character is looking for her true self. She learns a lot about herself and what true love really is.
The second novella was "Solving for X." Here a workaholic executive and artistic, whimsical girl fall in love and try to make it work with such different perspectives. My favorite was their "penpal" messages.
The last novella was "Stitch in Time." An antique sewing machine helps bring two people together. I really like this one but I thought Cate let Henry off a little too easy, but it was a cute one.
Overall, I had a hard time putting these down. I found myself trying to sneak in some reading during the day, which I don't normally do. There is some passionate kissing, but nothing beyond that. I also highly recommend the first Tangerine Street romance collection!
Content: there are mild swear words and some passionate kisses.
I am thankful to have received this for review, but the opinions are my own.
The first story, "Message in a Bottle," introduces us to the antiques. Each antique tells a story and our main character is looking for her true self. She learns a lot about herself and what true love really is.
The second novella was "Solving for X." Here a workaholic executive and artistic, whimsical girl fall in love and try to make it work with such different perspectives. My favorite was their "penpal" messages.
The last novella was "Stitch in Time." An antique sewing machine helps bring two people together. I really like this one but I thought Cate let Henry off a little too easy, but it was a cute one.
Overall, I had a hard time putting these down. I found myself trying to sneak in some reading during the day, which I don't normally do. There is some passionate kissing, but nothing beyond that. I also highly recommend the first Tangerine Street romance collection!
Content: there are mild swear words and some passionate kisses.
I am thankful to have received this for review, but the opinions are my own.
February 7, 2015
I was super - dee- duper excited to get my hands on this book to review. I knew it was coming out and hoped I would get the chance to pick it up. The first book in the series, The Fortune Cafe, was awesome. I knew this one would be good too- just look at the authors! :) Three of my favorites.
All three of these books are just fun to read. Sweet, clean, witty, light romances. I love how they all revolve around the antique shop and the first book starts at the very beginning of it all. I also love how the Fortune Cafe is still in the books, playing a role in the lives of new characters. It made me feel at home with old friends while getting to know new ones. It's a great idea and a great series and I love it. I got my happily ever after fix three times over in one book! I'm excited to see where on Tangerine Street the stories will take me next. Maybe the cupcake bakery or the candy shop?
There are a couple instances of mild swearing, which were completely unnecessary I thought. It actually surprised me a bit as I wasn't expecting it. But, anyway, there it is. My content head's up if you like to know things like that.
My thanks to Heather Moore for providing a review copy and allowing me to read and review this book. :)
All three of these books are just fun to read. Sweet, clean, witty, light romances. I love how they all revolve around the antique shop and the first book starts at the very beginning of it all. I also love how the Fortune Cafe is still in the books, playing a role in the lives of new characters. It made me feel at home with old friends while getting to know new ones. It's a great idea and a great series and I love it. I got my happily ever after fix three times over in one book! I'm excited to see where on Tangerine Street the stories will take me next. Maybe the cupcake bakery or the candy shop?
There are a couple instances of mild swearing, which were completely unnecessary I thought. It actually surprised me a bit as I wasn't expecting it. But, anyway, there it is. My content head's up if you like to know things like that.
My thanks to Heather Moore for providing a review copy and allowing me to read and review this book. :)
January 16, 2015
A heart warming collection of 3 stories that all have something to do with the Boardwalk Antique store and a specific antique. The first story is actually about the Boardwalk Antique store. Jennifer is gifted the store when her "crazy aunt Daisy" dies. She wants to just sell it and be done. When she goes there and starts to read the stories behind each antique and starts running the store by accident, she discovers she loves it. The realitor Paul Studly is another reason to stick around.
The second story centers around some WW II toy soldiers. Abbie is an artist and author who lives very much in the moment. Holden is very uptight and always planning for the future. Both have good reasons for wanting the toy soldiers. The two are opposites in many ways but together they are perfect for each other.
The last story is centered around an antique sewing machine. They both had a legitimate claim to the sewing machine. While researching the sewing machines history, they discover that they an amazing chemistry between them. Then Henry's x wife enters the picture and complicates everything.
I enjoyed all 3 stories. They had enough character development to them that I was pulled into the stories but not so long that I was up all night reading.
The second story centers around some WW II toy soldiers. Abbie is an artist and author who lives very much in the moment. Holden is very uptight and always planning for the future. Both have good reasons for wanting the toy soldiers. The two are opposites in many ways but together they are perfect for each other.
The last story is centered around an antique sewing machine. They both had a legitimate claim to the sewing machine. While researching the sewing machines history, they discover that they an amazing chemistry between them. Then Henry's x wife enters the picture and complicates everything.
I enjoyed all 3 stories. They had enough character development to them that I was pulled into the stories but not so long that I was up all night reading.
January 22, 2015
Another great, romantic anthology by talented writers. The first story sets the scene with Jennifer inheriting an antiques shop she didn't want but grows to love. She falls for the Studly realtor as well.
The next two stories involve the antique shop and love as well.
Abbie is an impulsive antique buyer and can't help herself when she sees something in the shop window that reminds her of her childhood. The only problem is when the corporate walks in and demands the same items. Abbie isn't one to back down though and words soon fly. Who will end up with the items? And who will fall in love?
The story is about a sewing machine, two grandmas and, what else? Love!
The stories are well-written, the characters are easy to love and root for and the writing is superb.
Want a good, clean romance to read over the weekend? Boardwalk Antiques is your book.
I received an ebook for an honest review. And honestly, I love this anthology!
The next two stories involve the antique shop and love as well.
Abbie is an impulsive antique buyer and can't help herself when she sees something in the shop window that reminds her of her childhood. The only problem is when the corporate walks in and demands the same items. Abbie isn't one to back down though and words soon fly. Who will end up with the items? And who will fall in love?
The story is about a sewing machine, two grandmas and, what else? Love!
The stories are well-written, the characters are easy to love and root for and the writing is superb.
Want a good, clean romance to read over the weekend? Boardwalk Antiques is your book.
I received an ebook for an honest review. And honestly, I love this anthology!
March 3, 2015
Maybe it's my ADD but I love these short stories:} This is a set of three stories that are so cute! They all take place about the same time in and around this Antique shop that is cool and unique itself. Each story is fun and just smile worthy:} I can't even pick a favorite. They are clean with some great kisses and no religion.
January 17, 2015
Of course I loved the Boardwalk Antiques Shop, being involved with it the way I am. But really--even taking out my own part, I loved the stories and the whole idea behind this. So grateful to be working with such talent!
March 18, 2015
I thought this set of books was really cute. I enjoyed the characters and how the stories wove together. I was surprised at a little bit of mild language that was used in the second and third book. I would recommend this to anyone who doesn't mind a little bit of mild language.
January 20, 2015
Each of the stories drew me in and made me fall in love all over again. I would highly recommend this fun anthology. I loved the setting, the characters, and the tie-ins to The Fortune Cafe series.
June 5, 2019
Rounding up from 3.5
I like this series of books overall. The idea of the series all happening in one small area and the lives of the characters intertwining through each book, though not the main focus, is enjoyable. I was happy to visit the Fortune Cafe again. I love the magic of the fortunes.
Message in a Bottle: I liked this story the best of the three. It was about unrequited love but not just romantic love. Yes, Jennifer's love for Eddie was not returned (thankfully because I didn't really like him) but also the Aunt's love of Jennifer isn't returned either. At least not until it is too late to do anything about it. I liked that Jennifer began to see her aunt in a new light and grew from the changes within her. It is a reminder to not wait to repair relationships with people who should be important to us. At some point it will be too late. I liked her relationship with Mr. Studly whose name cracked me up as well. And I loved the idea of everything having a story.
Solving for X: Had a harder time with this one mostly because I couldn't relate to Abbie. I would have a hard time enjoying her in real life if for no other reason than it drives me crazy to have people run on "ish" time. And Holden was so rude and unlikable initially that it took me a while to warm up to him too. I had a hard time seeing their attraction to each other. They are hating on each other one minute and the next he is asking her out. I did enjoy their pen-pal phase. And I liked that Abbie was able to use her creativity, matching it with intelligence to play to her strengths. She was smart. I didn't like that her default for discomfort was to run away. This one also had some mild language and edgier kissing scenes.
A Stitch in Time: It would be fascinating to have two people meet and be able to trace their family connection as these two did. Cate and Henry were likable once past their initial meeting even if he turned stupid for a minute. I thought the cousin was a louse. Also had mild language.
Sex: passionate kisses
Language: some, mild
Violence: no
I like this series of books overall. The idea of the series all happening in one small area and the lives of the characters intertwining through each book, though not the main focus, is enjoyable. I was happy to visit the Fortune Cafe again. I love the magic of the fortunes.
Message in a Bottle: I liked this story the best of the three. It was about unrequited love but not just romantic love. Yes, Jennifer's love for Eddie was not returned (thankfully because I didn't really like him) but also the Aunt's love of Jennifer isn't returned either. At least not until it is too late to do anything about it. I liked that Jennifer began to see her aunt in a new light and grew from the changes within her. It is a reminder to not wait to repair relationships with people who should be important to us. At some point it will be too late. I liked her relationship with Mr. Studly whose name cracked me up as well. And I loved the idea of everything having a story.
Solving for X: Had a harder time with this one mostly because I couldn't relate to Abbie. I would have a hard time enjoying her in real life if for no other reason than it drives me crazy to have people run on "ish" time. And Holden was so rude and unlikable initially that it took me a while to warm up to him too. I had a hard time seeing their attraction to each other. They are hating on each other one minute and the next he is asking her out. I did enjoy their pen-pal phase. And I liked that Abbie was able to use her creativity, matching it with intelligence to play to her strengths. She was smart. I didn't like that her default for discomfort was to run away. This one also had some mild language and edgier kissing scenes.
A Stitch in Time: It would be fascinating to have two people meet and be able to trace their family connection as these two did. Cate and Henry were likable once past their initial meeting even if he turned stupid for a minute. I thought the cousin was a louse. Also had mild language.
Sex: passionate kisses
Language: some, mild
Violence: no
June 6, 2019
A hard act to follow
Book two in the Tangerine Street series, was good but not as good as The Fortune Cafe. I think my favorite story was the last one about the sewing machine even though it had some tightly knitted cliches in it.
Book two in the Tangerine Street series, was good but not as good as The Fortune Cafe. I think my favorite story was the last one about the sewing machine even though it had some tightly knitted cliches in it.
April 17, 2022
It was so much fun coming back to Tangerine street! Stories are, as in the first book, full of love and hope. I just loved it, this much cuteness might have never worked for me on another day but today it made me feel all warm and fuzzy :)
June 22, 2017
I love the three short story format. It makes it light and enjoyable. Sweet love stories and a town I'd love to visit.
January 1, 2018
Cute, easy stories to read. Three novellas in one with a common tie (and sometimes the characters meet).
July 14, 2019
Super cute.
September 12, 2019
These stories were so fun and the romances were butterfly inducing.
January 17, 2020
This book has three different love stories that just made me happy. I liked reading it one story at a time, in between some of the heavier books I've been reading.
September 16, 2020
Not as cute as the first set.
October 8, 2020
Fun romances centered around antiques. 3 Novellas from 3 great writers.
December 16, 2020
Fun book, enjoyed all the stories.
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