What do you think?
Rate this book
The Seaside Book Club
Not yet published
Expected 17 May 26Welcome to a very special book club – where stories are shared, secrets kept, and friendships found.
Howard, newly retired to Dorset, joins because he can’t sleep; the weekly sessions give him an opportunity to connect. Margot logs in only after her husband’s fallen asleep – her life has grown small, and the club is the one place she can still be herself. And on the other side of the world, Faye joins to escape her sister’s latest crisis and feel, for an hour, that she belongs somewhere.
For each of them, the book club is more than a hobby – it’s a lifeline.
So when Howard suddenly disappears from the meetings, everything changes. Determined to be there for their friend, Faye and Margot must step out of their own troubled lives and travel to Dorset – where the truth behind Howard’s silence may turn out to be the most unexpected story of all…
A warm-hearted and gripping story from bestselling author Helen Rolfe that will captivate fans of Lucy Diamond, Cathy Bramley and Jessica Redland.
Howard, newly retired to Dorset, joins because he can’t sleep; the weekly sessions give him an opportunity to connect. Margot logs in only after her husband’s fallen asleep – her life has grown small, and the club is the one place she can still be herself. And on the other side of the world, Faye joins to escape her sister’s latest crisis and feel, for an hour, that she belongs somewhere.
For each of them, the book club is more than a hobby – it’s a lifeline.
So when Howard suddenly disappears from the meetings, everything changes. Determined to be there for their friend, Faye and Margot must step out of their own troubled lives and travel to Dorset – where the truth behind Howard’s silence may turn out to be the most unexpected story of all…
A warm-hearted and gripping story from bestselling author Helen Rolfe that will captivate fans of Lucy Diamond, Cathy Bramley and Jessica Redland.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 17, 2026
3 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Helen Rolfe
61 books135 followersHelen Rolfe also writes as Helen J. Rolfe
Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.
Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.
Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!
To learn more about Helen, find her at:
www.helenjrolfe.com
https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...
https://twitter.com/hjrolfe
https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/
Helen Rolfe writes contemporary women's fiction and enjoys weaving stories about family, friendship, secrets, and relationships. Characters often face challenges and must fight to overcome them, but above all, Helen's stories always have a happy ending.
Location is a big part of the adventure in Helen's books and she enjoys setting stories in different cities and countries around the world. So far, locations have included Melbourne, Sydney, New York, Connecticut, Bath and the Cotswolds. She also loves creating village settings or places with a small-town feel and a big sense of community.
Born and raised in the UK, Helen graduated from University with a business degree and began working in I.T. This job took her over to Australia where she eventually turned her attentions back to the career she'd dreamt of when she was fourteen. She studied writing and journalism and wrote articles for women's health and fitness magazines. Helen began writing fiction in 2011 and hasn't missed the I.T. world one little bit... in fact she may just have found her dream job!
To learn more about Helen, find her at:
www.helenjrolfe.com
https://www.facebook.com/helenjrolfew...
https://twitter.com/hjrolfe
https://www.instagram.com/helen_j_rolfe/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Editor
I'm giving The Seaside Book Club by Helen Rolfe a 3-star review. ⭐⭐⭐
This was a gentle, atmospheric story about the power of friendship and the solace found in books, though the pacing didn't quite catch the wind in its sails for me.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, the author Helen Rolfe, and the publisher Boldwood Books for providing this eARC! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
The Review
The story is set in a picturesque coastal town where a group of individuals find connection through their shared love of reading. The "Seaside Book Club" becomes a sanctuary for characters facing various life transitions, from career changes to personal heartbreaks. It’s a very character-driven narrative that focuses on the everyday magic of community and the ways books can help us navigate our own real-world chapters.
The Good
The strongest element of this book is undoubtedly the setting; the coastal atmosphere is so well-developed that you can almost smell the salt air and hear the waves crashing against the shore. I also loved the "book-within-a-book" feel, as the discussions held by the club members often mirrored the themes of their own lives, which is a treat for any bibliophile. The friendships feel authentic and supportive, providing a warm, "hug in a book" sensation that makes it a very comforting read during the quieter moments.
The Not So Good
On the other hand, the narrative felt quite slow, with long stretches where very little forward momentum occurred in the plot. While I appreciate a character-driven story, some of the internal monologues felt repetitive, and I found myself waiting for a significant turning point that took a bit too long to arrive. Additionally, with several different perspectives to follow, some character arcs felt more fully realized than others, leaving me wanting a bit more depth from a few of the supporting club members. It is a pleasant read, but it lacked the emotional punch I was hoping for
This was a gentle, atmospheric story about the power of friendship and the solace found in books, though the pacing didn't quite catch the wind in its sails for me.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, the author Helen Rolfe, and the publisher Boldwood Books for providing this eARC! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
The Review
The story is set in a picturesque coastal town where a group of individuals find connection through their shared love of reading. The "Seaside Book Club" becomes a sanctuary for characters facing various life transitions, from career changes to personal heartbreaks. It’s a very character-driven narrative that focuses on the everyday magic of community and the ways books can help us navigate our own real-world chapters.
The Good
The strongest element of this book is undoubtedly the setting; the coastal atmosphere is so well-developed that you can almost smell the salt air and hear the waves crashing against the shore. I also loved the "book-within-a-book" feel, as the discussions held by the club members often mirrored the themes of their own lives, which is a treat for any bibliophile. The friendships feel authentic and supportive, providing a warm, "hug in a book" sensation that makes it a very comforting read during the quieter moments.
The Not So Good
On the other hand, the narrative felt quite slow, with long stretches where very little forward momentum occurred in the plot. While I appreciate a character-driven story, some of the internal monologues felt repetitive, and I found myself waiting for a significant turning point that took a bit too long to arrive. Additionally, with several different perspectives to follow, some character arcs felt more fully realized than others, leaving me wanting a bit more depth from a few of the supporting club members. It is a pleasant read, but it lacked the emotional punch I was hoping for
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Helen Rolfe, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
If you are in the mood for a cozy, feel-good, and relaxing read, then The Seaside Book Club should definitely be on your list to pick up. This story follows three characters, each with their own set of problems, who join an online late-night book club. Let’s start with that. I always feel intrigued and interested in books involving a book club. I joined my first one in recent years, and it was a really neat experience. It was also kind of an escape for me, like the characters in this book, so that made them super relatable, and relatability is really important for me in a good book.
I enjoyed reading a story about troubled adults finding new friendships later in life, which can be incredibly hard to do, but it is also so important. This is the first time I have read Helen’s work, and I really enjoyed her writing style and ability to tell a story. As I said, the characters were relatable, and the pacing was right. Although some might find the plot to be predictable, I think that is to be expected for this type of story. This was never meant to be something full of twists and turns, but a story of friendships and growth.
I really enjoyed Faye and Margot’s journey to figure out why Howard stopped showing up to book club, and the events that transpired from there. I am a super emotional person, especially when I am immersed in a story (whether that be a book, movie, whatever), so this book had me in my feels a little bit. I felt for Howard’s wife Bonnie, but the forefront themes of community, love, friendship, and hope were certainly loud and clear, and honestly, the ending was just so warm and perfect like a really good hug. Overall, I really did enjoy this book and would not hesitate to pick up another one from Helen.
If you are in the mood for a cozy, feel-good, and relaxing read, then The Seaside Book Club should definitely be on your list to pick up. This story follows three characters, each with their own set of problems, who join an online late-night book club. Let’s start with that. I always feel intrigued and interested in books involving a book club. I joined my first one in recent years, and it was a really neat experience. It was also kind of an escape for me, like the characters in this book, so that made them super relatable, and relatability is really important for me in a good book.
I enjoyed reading a story about troubled adults finding new friendships later in life, which can be incredibly hard to do, but it is also so important. This is the first time I have read Helen’s work, and I really enjoyed her writing style and ability to tell a story. As I said, the characters were relatable, and the pacing was right. Although some might find the plot to be predictable, I think that is to be expected for this type of story. This was never meant to be something full of twists and turns, but a story of friendships and growth.
I really enjoyed Faye and Margot’s journey to figure out why Howard stopped showing up to book club, and the events that transpired from there. I am a super emotional person, especially when I am immersed in a story (whether that be a book, movie, whatever), so this book had me in my feels a little bit. I felt for Howard’s wife Bonnie, but the forefront themes of community, love, friendship, and hope were certainly loud and clear, and honestly, the ending was just so warm and perfect like a really good hug. Overall, I really did enjoy this book and would not hesitate to pick up another one from Helen.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Seaside Book Club is a tender, uplifting story about connection in all its unexpected forms. Helen Rolfe brings together three people who might never have crossed paths if not for a quiet little book club—one that becomes far more than a weekly distraction.
Howard, newly retired and lonely in ways he can’t quite admit, finds comfort in the familiar rhythm of the meetings. Margot slips in under the cover of night, carving out a sliver of space where she can simply exist as herself. And Faye, half a world away, joins for the hour of peace it gives her, a moment untouched by her sister’s chaos. Each of them arrives carrying their own private ache, and Rolfe captures that beautifully.
When Howard suddenly disappears from the sessions, the story shifts into something deeper. Faye and Margot’s decision to travel to Dorset feels both brave and tender, a reminder of how quickly strangers can become lifelines. Their journey to uncover the truth behind Howard’s silence is filled with warmth, gentle humour, and the kind of emotional honesty that makes you root for every one of them.
This is a feel‑good read in the truest sense—heartfelt without being saccharine, hopeful without ignoring life’s messier edges. A lovely celebration of friendship, second chances, and the quiet magic of finding your people in the most unexpected places.
with thanks to Helen Rolfe, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Howard, newly retired and lonely in ways he can’t quite admit, finds comfort in the familiar rhythm of the meetings. Margot slips in under the cover of night, carving out a sliver of space where she can simply exist as herself. And Faye, half a world away, joins for the hour of peace it gives her, a moment untouched by her sister’s chaos. Each of them arrives carrying their own private ache, and Rolfe captures that beautifully.
When Howard suddenly disappears from the sessions, the story shifts into something deeper. Faye and Margot’s decision to travel to Dorset feels both brave and tender, a reminder of how quickly strangers can become lifelines. Their journey to uncover the truth behind Howard’s silence is filled with warmth, gentle humour, and the kind of emotional honesty that makes you root for every one of them.
This is a feel‑good read in the truest sense—heartfelt without being saccharine, hopeful without ignoring life’s messier edges. A lovely celebration of friendship, second chances, and the quiet magic of finding your people in the most unexpected places.
with thanks to Helen Rolfe, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a cozy, uplifting read with a lovely seaside feel and a strong sense of friendship running through it. It’s the kind of book that’s easy to settle into, especially if you enjoy gentle stories about community and second chances.
I really liked the idea of the book club and the warmth that comes from women finding connection with one another. The setting adds a lot of charm, and overall the book has a comforting, feel good tone that makes it an enjoyable escape.
My only small hesitation is the balance of character time. There are quite a few characters, and while I enjoyed them all, it felt like one character took up a bit more space than necessary. I would have loved to spend a little more time with some of the others, as a few of their stories felt like they had more potential to explore.
That said, this didn’t take away from my enjoyment too much. The plot is fairly predictable, but in a comforting way. It’s more about the journey and the friendships than big surprises.
Overall, this is a warm, pleasant read that delivers exactly what it promises: heart, community, and a charming seaside setting. A solid pick for relaxed reading.
★★★★☆ www.pinkstinx.blogspot.com
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really liked the idea of the book club and the warmth that comes from women finding connection with one another. The setting adds a lot of charm, and overall the book has a comforting, feel good tone that makes it an enjoyable escape.
My only small hesitation is the balance of character time. There are quite a few characters, and while I enjoyed them all, it felt like one character took up a bit more space than necessary. I would have loved to spend a little more time with some of the others, as a few of their stories felt like they had more potential to explore.
That said, this didn’t take away from my enjoyment too much. The plot is fairly predictable, but in a comforting way. It’s more about the journey and the friendships than big surprises.
Overall, this is a warm, pleasant read that delivers exactly what it promises: heart, community, and a charming seaside setting. A solid pick for relaxed reading.
★★★★☆ www.pinkstinx.blogspot.com
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my second book by Helen Rolfe and I quite enjoyed it. It's warm and cozy and leaves you with a happy feeling.
"The Seaside Book Club" meets once a week on-line. Most of the members are from England while the mediator is from Australia. They meet at midnight (England time) and change the name to, "The Midnight Book Club" (a little strange that the book was called this as they changed the name very early on.) Most of the setting however was near Dorset which is a charming area near the seaside. It was beautifully described. The story follows Margot a 50 year old lady with a troubled marriage, Faye who's 29 and dealing with a family public scandal in Australia and Howard who is 70 years old and owns a book shop and lives with his beloved wife Bonnie in a picturesque cottage by the sea. Howard is a much loved member of the book club. When he disappears from book club the friends get together to try to find out what happened to him.
I really enjoyed all the members back stories. Each one is dealing with a problem and they will all help and inspire each other. I really enjoyed the first half but the second half dipped a little bit. It's 3.5 ⭐️ for me.
Publishes on May 17, 2026
Thank-you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the Advance Reader's Copy.
"The Seaside Book Club" meets once a week on-line. Most of the members are from England while the mediator is from Australia. They meet at midnight (England time) and change the name to, "The Midnight Book Club" (a little strange that the book was called this as they changed the name very early on.) Most of the setting however was near Dorset which is a charming area near the seaside. It was beautifully described. The story follows Margot a 50 year old lady with a troubled marriage, Faye who's 29 and dealing with a family public scandal in Australia and Howard who is 70 years old and owns a book shop and lives with his beloved wife Bonnie in a picturesque cottage by the sea. Howard is a much loved member of the book club. When he disappears from book club the friends get together to try to find out what happened to him.
I really enjoyed all the members back stories. Each one is dealing with a problem and they will all help and inspire each other. I really enjoyed the first half but the second half dipped a little bit. It's 3.5 ⭐️ for me.
Publishes on May 17, 2026
Thank-you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the Advance Reader's Copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Midnight book club is a little different as its members are all insomniacs - or in Faye's case in Australia - so midnight suits them as a time to meet in the book club. Faye runs it and Margot is happy to meet at a time when her controlling husband is asleep. When one of their beloved core members suddenly disappears from the club, Faye and Margot are worried. When Faye needs some time away from Australia and Margot summons up the courage to leave her husband, they both use the opportunity to got Driftwick Bay to find out what has happened to Howard. It turns out that their time in the bay will change both of their lives in good ways.
This novel is a must for all book lovers, as it is an ode to the power of reading that transcends the page. The characters span the ages, making it a good read for anyone of any age. The tone is warm and the characters engaging - and I ended up feeling like I had been wrapped in a warm blanket and handed a comforting cup of the very best hot chocolate. Absolutely recommended!
This novel is a must for all book lovers, as it is an ode to the power of reading that transcends the page. The characters span the ages, making it a good read for anyone of any age. The tone is warm and the characters engaging - and I ended up feeling like I had been wrapped in a warm blanket and handed a comforting cup of the very best hot chocolate. Absolutely recommended!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. 4.5 stars. I’ve only discovered this author in the last year and have now listened or read several of her books. This is a standalone book featuring a lovely book club and some of its members. The Midnight Book Club was set up by Faye’s late Aunt and Faye has now taken on the mantle of running it. She is based in Queensland in Australia. The other key book club members are in the UK – their meeting time is midnight. Howard has retired to Dorset with wife Bonnie but comes out of retirement to buy and run book shop. Margot logs on to the meetings when her domineering husband Perry is asleep. For Faye the book club is an escape from her twin sister’s latest drama. Howard suddenly disappears from the meetings and everything changes. Faye and Margot leave their own situations and travel to Dorset to try and uncover what’s happened to Howard.
A lovely warm story with great characters.
A lovely warm story with great characters.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was a delight to read this feel-good story about three women starting over again.
Two things brought them together: a wonderful man named Howard, and the book club he loved.
The story is told in a third-person point of view, from the pov's of these three women. They're at different stages in their lives, from different backgrounds, yet they're all on a new journey.
Grief can happen in many forms, and these women find comfort in their friendship while facing their personal loss and therefore revival. As I'm a middle-aged woman myself, I can appreciate how these friendships can seem to come out of nowhere, yet change someone's world altogether. It gives a sense of hope as it's hard to find friends at this stage in life.
I enjoyed reading it, and I recommend it to my audience.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for granting me this opportunity.
Two things brought them together: a wonderful man named Howard, and the book club he loved.
The story is told in a third-person point of view, from the pov's of these three women. They're at different stages in their lives, from different backgrounds, yet they're all on a new journey.
Grief can happen in many forms, and these women find comfort in their friendship while facing their personal loss and therefore revival. As I'm a middle-aged woman myself, I can appreciate how these friendships can seem to come out of nowhere, yet change someone's world altogether. It gives a sense of hope as it's hard to find friends at this stage in life.
I enjoyed reading it, and I recommend it to my audience.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for granting me this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love books about the love of books, bookstores, and book people. They warm my heart and soul. They are about my life and my people.
This book follows members of a book club - originally named the Seaside Book Club but now called the Midnight Book Club. Bonnie is the widow of a key book club member who owns a bookstore in Driftwick Bay, UK. Faye is the book club moderator who moves from Australia to Driftwick Bay where her dad lives and to escape a situation her twin has gotten her into. And Margot leaves her controlling and manipulative husband and escapes to Driftwick Bay to find a new life.
Together these three ladies (plus a few additional side characters) build a friendship that holds them up when life is hard. *sighs contentedly*
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
This book follows members of a book club - originally named the Seaside Book Club but now called the Midnight Book Club. Bonnie is the widow of a key book club member who owns a bookstore in Driftwick Bay, UK. Faye is the book club moderator who moves from Australia to Driftwick Bay where her dad lives and to escape a situation her twin has gotten her into. And Margot leaves her controlling and manipulative husband and escapes to Driftwick Bay to find a new life.
Together these three ladies (plus a few additional side characters) build a friendship that holds them up when life is hard. *sighs contentedly*
Many thanks to Boldwood Books for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
May 4, 2026
The midnight book club brings together a mixture of people from all over the globe who all have the love of books in common. When Howard a key member of the group disappears from the online meetings two of the group members come together to uncover the truth.
The characters is this book were all just wonderful. Even though they all had their own stories and problems to escape from and were from different generations. They formed a strong friendship and showed how the power of friendship can really help them heal.
I loved Bonnie as a character and how she began to come out of her self and remember the good times as the story progressed. Margot had such a heartbreaking story and I went through so many emotions reading what she had been through.
The setting of the Dorset coastline was stunning and really added to the story. I could just imagine the Beautiful bookshop and the bakery with Midas waiting outside.
Another fantastic, heartwarming 5 star read from Helen Rolfe which I could not put down
Thanks to NetGalley, Helen Rolfe and Boldwood books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The characters is this book were all just wonderful. Even though they all had their own stories and problems to escape from and were from different generations. They formed a strong friendship and showed how the power of friendship can really help them heal.
I loved Bonnie as a character and how she began to come out of her self and remember the good times as the story progressed. Margot had such a heartbreaking story and I went through so many emotions reading what she had been through.
The setting of the Dorset coastline was stunning and really added to the story. I could just imagine the Beautiful bookshop and the bakery with Midas waiting outside.
Another fantastic, heartwarming 5 star read from Helen Rolfe which I could not put down
Thanks to NetGalley, Helen Rolfe and Boldwood books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
April 25, 2026
Advance copy with thanks from Netgalley.
The Seaside Book Club by Helen Rolfe is a cute, charming, feel‑good read that combines loss and difficulties with friendship, community, and second chances. Learning the back story to the main book club members, we realise they are all struggling or not having an easy time, but I liked how they all feel relatable and were all likeable. As they navigate their own personal challenges, they find connection through their shared love of books but also through wanting the best for others. I found so much empathy for all of them, and admired how each faced things, moved forward and worked on finding happiness– only relying on the support of their friends and community. While the plot is gentle, no dramatic ups and downs, there are moments where my heart was both full or breaking. I was invested in their lives and the story.
A comforting, heart‑warming story perfect for those who enjoy cosy, character‑driven fiction and obviously book lovers everywhere!
The Seaside Book Club by Helen Rolfe is a cute, charming, feel‑good read that combines loss and difficulties with friendship, community, and second chances. Learning the back story to the main book club members, we realise they are all struggling or not having an easy time, but I liked how they all feel relatable and were all likeable. As they navigate their own personal challenges, they find connection through their shared love of books but also through wanting the best for others. I found so much empathy for all of them, and admired how each faced things, moved forward and worked on finding happiness– only relying on the support of their friends and community. While the plot is gentle, no dramatic ups and downs, there are moments where my heart was both full or breaking. I was invested in their lives and the story.
A comforting, heart‑warming story perfect for those who enjoy cosy, character‑driven fiction and obviously book lovers everywhere!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cozy, easy read about adults developing a bond later in life that is both encouraging and really emotional I must say!
I think at any age, the creation and foundation of friendships is tough to navigate and often done on the terms of similar interests. I loved that the women found such a beautiful and endearing connection, one that I have found in my own bookclub! I would however not recommend mine be over zoom 🤣
Howard’s inability to sleep and why he joins is so relatable. Also the turn of events that occur around “Howard’s disappearance “ is both sad and softly lovely in the end. Bonnie is a nice addition and grief is often so helped by having a good group.
Lovely read, quick and cozy. I 👏 love 👏 female 👏 friendships 👏
Thanks NetGalley!
I think at any age, the creation and foundation of friendships is tough to navigate and often done on the terms of similar interests. I loved that the women found such a beautiful and endearing connection, one that I have found in my own bookclub! I would however not recommend mine be over zoom 🤣
Howard’s inability to sleep and why he joins is so relatable. Also the turn of events that occur around “Howard’s disappearance “ is both sad and softly lovely in the end. Bonnie is a nice addition and grief is often so helped by having a good group.
Lovely read, quick and cozy. I 👏 love 👏 female 👏 friendships 👏
Thanks NetGalley!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this gentle heartwarming read.
The midnight book club brings Howard, Margot and Faye together - each with their secrets, dilemmas and love of books. It’s a lifeline for each of them - in different ways.
When Howard disappears both women are compelled to find out what has happened - Faye flees Australia: jilted and hounded by the press and Margot leaves her difficult marriage.
On hearing of his death they befriend his wife, Bonnie, and slowly bring her back to life - in the process they save his bookshop.
A feel good story if friendship, community, hope and love.
The midnight book club brings Howard, Margot and Faye together - each with their secrets, dilemmas and love of books. It’s a lifeline for each of them - in different ways.
When Howard disappears both women are compelled to find out what has happened - Faye flees Australia: jilted and hounded by the press and Margot leaves her difficult marriage.
On hearing of his death they befriend his wife, Bonnie, and slowly bring her back to life - in the process they save his bookshop.
A feel good story if friendship, community, hope and love.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Seaside Book Club is a story of friendship and found family. Howard (and Bonnie), Faye, and Margot don't necessarily make sense at first glance but the friendships formed prove otherwise. When each person is faced with their own life-altering situation, they all come together to help each other out.
Everything is centered around books and the Midnight Book Club, aptly renamed from the Seaside Book Club due to the hour the book club gets together. There are so many literary nods to other works throughout the book. I really should have kept track of how many there actually were.
Everything is centered around books and the Midnight Book Club, aptly renamed from the Seaside Book Club due to the hour the book club gets together. There are so many literary nods to other works throughout the book. I really should have kept track of how many there actually were.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Seaside Book Club is a charming and heart warming story about friendship and community. People – who became friends through a bookclub – coming together and helping each other through all kinds of situations. I’ll have to admit that it took me a minute to get into the story, but then I was hooked.
Can’t believe that this was the first book that I’ve read by this author. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a cozy read!
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Helen Rolfe and NetGalley for this ARC!
Can’t believe that this was the first book that I’ve read by this author. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a cozy read!
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Helen Rolfe and NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book and getting to know Bonnie, Margot and Faye as they each started over for their unique reasons. It was set on the beautiful Dorset Coast and I could just imagine the bookshop nestled in one of the local villages.
Helen's writing is emotional, entertaining and incredibly relatable. Because the three women it centres on are from different generations, I'm sure it is a book a wide range of readers will enjoy!
I would highly recommend for Fans of Jaimie Admans and Sarah Hope.
Helen's writing is emotional, entertaining and incredibly relatable. Because the three women it centres on are from different generations, I'm sure it is a book a wide range of readers will enjoy!
I would highly recommend for Fans of Jaimie Admans and Sarah Hope.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three women connected by a Zoom book club are all at crossroads. Faye, who runs the book club, is seeking respite from the scandal her twin sister caused. Margot is finally fed up with her controlling husband and takes initiative. Bonnie is grieving her husband, a book club member. Meeting each other is the exact thing each of them needs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 27, 2026
5 stars.....no question.
This is an uplifting book about not just friendship, but how important multi-generational friendships are. My favorite character in this book is Margot, and I caught myself crying for her and then cheering her on. Whether you've had your heart broken, lost yourself, or are experiencing grief, you can find an important message in this book. Showing up for people matters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
This is an uplifting book about not just friendship, but how important multi-generational friendships are. My favorite character in this book is Margot, and I caught myself crying for her and then cheering her on. Whether you've had your heart broken, lost yourself, or are experiencing grief, you can find an important message in this book. Showing up for people matters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A lovely story about moving through grief and other difficult transitions. It took me a bit to get into the story but once I did, I enjoyed it. The characters are excellent and the story flows beautifully especially in the second half. I'm glad I kept going.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
a lovely, feel-good read full of friendship, fresh starts, and a touch of mystery. The seaside setting adds such a calming, comforting atmosphere, and it was easy to get pulled into the story.
I really enjoyed the focus on relationships and the way the characters’ journeys unfolded. It’s gentle, uplifting, and has that sense of community that makes you want to stay a little longer.
I really enjoyed the focus on relationships and the way the characters’ journeys unfolded. It’s gentle, uplifting, and has that sense of community that makes you want to stay a little longer.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After his passing Howard’s legacy continues to bring people together. A superb read centred around books and friendship. Just lovely for a sunny afternoon or a holiday.
April 25, 2026
I absolutely love this authors books so I couldn’t wait to get started on this one and once I had I couldn’t put it down. This was the perfect uplifting and feel good read to get my teeth into and escape after a busy week.
This was a heartfelt emotional yet uplifting read and I was invested in the characters from the start. The story is told from the point of view of the 3 main characters and how they are navigating grief and changes in their lives and how they form new friendships and beginnings through their love of books. It also had a real community feel and showed the importance of friendship and helping each other out in times of need.
I would love a sequel to this to see how the characters lives continues to unfold.
This was a heartfelt emotional yet uplifting read and I was invested in the characters from the start. The story is told from the point of view of the 3 main characters and how they are navigating grief and changes in their lives and how they form new friendships and beginnings through their love of books. It also had a real community feel and showed the importance of friendship and helping each other out in times of need.
I would love a sequel to this to see how the characters lives continues to unfold.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews