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Simplicity by the Sea
Not yet published
Expected 26 Jan 26What if the perfect pairing isn't found in a bottle, but in each other?
High-powered marketing executive Delaney Huger thrives in Virginia's wine scene until a quick trip home to Gull Island for a wedding forces her to slow down. Suddenly, she's questioning the life she's built and what comes next. Can she uncork a new beginning or keep pouring into a dream that no longer fits?
Charter captain Luke Sullivan has built a quiet, predictable life on Gull Island, perfect for raising his daughter and growing his business. But when a captivating wedding guest stirs something he thought he'd buried, he wonders if it's time to change. Will he chart a new course toward love or stay safely ashore?
High-powered marketing executive Delaney Huger thrives in Virginia's wine scene until a quick trip home to Gull Island for a wedding forces her to slow down. Suddenly, she's questioning the life she's built and what comes next. Can she uncork a new beginning or keep pouring into a dream that no longer fits?
Charter captain Luke Sullivan has built a quiet, predictable life on Gull Island, perfect for raising his daughter and growing his business. But when a captivating wedding guest stirs something he thought he'd buried, he wonders if it's time to change. Will he chart a new course toward love or stay safely ashore?
- GenresRomance
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 26, 2026
3 people are currently reading
912 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Vido
8 books211 followersJennifer Vido is the author of the Gull Island series, sweet Lowcountry romances inspired by her love of coastal living and small-town charm. Serendipity by the Sea won Best First Book from the New Jersey Romance Writers Golden Leaf Contest, and Baltimore Magazine readers named her Best Local Author in 2024 and 2025. A Vanderbilt graduate, Jennifer traded in teaching French to follow her dream of becoming an author. She loves discovering and sharing literary gems through her Jen's Jewels column, celebrating the books that make her heart happy. Jennifer lives in Maryland with her husband and is mom to two grown sons. Her rescue dog, Fripp, is her constant companion, though he's better at napping than editing. When she's not writing, you'll find her at the beach with her toes in the sand, dreaming about her next romance.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
January 6, 2026
Simplicity by the Sea — Jennifer Vido
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
This book is calm, emotional, and quietly beautiful — the kind of story that unfolds gently and lets you breathe along with it.
Set against a peaceful coastal backdrop, this is a romance rooted in slowing down, healing, and rediscovering what truly matters. The FMC is searching for balance and clarity, while the MMC brings a steady, grounding presence that contrasts perfectly with the emotional weight she’s carrying. Their connection grows naturally, built on honesty, comfort, and shared moments rather than grand gestures.
The vibes:
🌊 Coastal, small-town setting
🫶 Slow-burn romance
💔 Healing from past hurts
🌅 Quiet reflection and emotional growth
💞 Soft, mature chemistry
What really stood out was the atmosphere. The seaside setting feels intentional — almost like a character itself — and mirrors the internal journey of the characters. The pacing is slower, but it works for the story, allowing emotions to settle and relationships to feel real.
If you enjoy heartfelt romances with peaceful settings, meaningful conversations, and a focus on personal growth, Simplicity by the Sea is a comforting, satisfying read that I enjoyed and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
This book is calm, emotional, and quietly beautiful — the kind of story that unfolds gently and lets you breathe along with it.
Set against a peaceful coastal backdrop, this is a romance rooted in slowing down, healing, and rediscovering what truly matters. The FMC is searching for balance and clarity, while the MMC brings a steady, grounding presence that contrasts perfectly with the emotional weight she’s carrying. Their connection grows naturally, built on honesty, comfort, and shared moments rather than grand gestures.
The vibes:
🌊 Coastal, small-town setting
🫶 Slow-burn romance
💔 Healing from past hurts
🌅 Quiet reflection and emotional growth
💞 Soft, mature chemistry
What really stood out was the atmosphere. The seaside setting feels intentional — almost like a character itself — and mirrors the internal journey of the characters. The pacing is slower, but it works for the story, allowing emotions to settle and relationships to feel real.
If you enjoy heartfelt romances with peaceful settings, meaningful conversations, and a focus on personal growth, Simplicity by the Sea is a comforting, satisfying read that I enjoyed and would recommend.
Review of advance copy
This was a bit of a slow burn but I feel that that's the way of this island. Life moves a bit slowly and that's okay.
Delaney comes here for a wedding and only is going to stay a few days. Then she starts helping her sister Haven with her struggling business that she has been a silent partner on. Delaney also meets Luke and his precious daughter Larkin and begins to look at her on and off relationship with Nate to see if she really wants him to be her future.
I love the way the people on the island help each other and there are a lot of people that dive in to help Haven. There's a little tiny bit of pulse action at the end, but Delaney saves the day because of the attention she has to details.
Delaney comes here for a wedding and only is going to stay a few days. Then she starts helping her sister Haven with her struggling business that she has been a silent partner on. Delaney also meets Luke and his precious daughter Larkin and begins to look at her on and off relationship with Nate to see if she really wants him to be her future.
I love the way the people on the island help each other and there are a lot of people that dive in to help Haven. There's a little tiny bit of pulse action at the end, but Delaney saves the day because of the attention she has to details.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a welcome break from my fantasy novels. its a comfortable yet cozy romance novel that was set in this spectacular coastal setting.
The relationship between the two main characters was very authentic and real, and I appreciated that so much. i love when I can read a romance novel and the characters just feel like people I would see on the street every day.
This was a very quick read but I literally cherished every moment. These are the kind of romance novels that I want to read over and over again.
The relationship between the two main characters was very authentic and real, and I appreciated that so much. i love when I can read a romance novel and the characters just feel like people I would see on the street every day.
This was a very quick read but I literally cherished every moment. These are the kind of romance novels that I want to read over and over again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is my second Jennifer Vido book, and, once again, she hits all the important feelings for me. The main character is relatable and true-to-life. Delaney Huger, neck-deep in a high-pressure wine business in Virginia, returns home to Gull Island for a wedding...or so she thinks. Once on island time, she begins to question her life, the cost of the hectic pace, and especially her future.
Handsome Charter captain Luke Sullivan appears to cloudy her poor brain even more. You know where this is going, right? Romance happens—slowly—like everything does at the shore. This book is a session of therapy, only much cheaper. It’s a calming and quietly beautiful kind of story that every reader can appreciate. The narrative is artfully composed and so clear that I can almost smell the ocean. And all the discussions of charcuterie boards have me craving salami with cheese, or fig jam on a baguette. The only way this book could be better is if I were reading it from the bow of Luke’s boat.
The author indicated that this is perhaps the final book in the series. That’s fine, but she must bring back Ol’ Man Henry in another book. He danced in the opening scene, then hovered in the background and reappeared, taking center stage, whenever sage advice was needed.
Handsome Charter captain Luke Sullivan appears to cloudy her poor brain even more. You know where this is going, right? Romance happens—slowly—like everything does at the shore. This book is a session of therapy, only much cheaper. It’s a calming and quietly beautiful kind of story that every reader can appreciate. The narrative is artfully composed and so clear that I can almost smell the ocean. And all the discussions of charcuterie boards have me craving salami with cheese, or fig jam on a baguette. The only way this book could be better is if I were reading it from the bow of Luke’s boat.
The author indicated that this is perhaps the final book in the series. That’s fine, but she must bring back Ol’ Man Henry in another book. He danced in the opening scene, then hovered in the background and reappeared, taking center stage, whenever sage advice was needed.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to the @jenvido @thewildrosepress and @getredprbooks for the #gifted book.
Prepare to be swept away in the enchanting world of Gull Island with the thrilling third installment of this series which can be read as a standalone.
Delaney returns to her picturesque hometown for a wedding, only to discover a deep longing for her family and the bonds she cherishes. As she steps in to help her spirited sister, Haven, rescue her struggling store, Delaney unexpectedly finds herself amidst new friendships and the spark of romance. Luke, an irresistible single dad can’t help but be captivated by her charm. Their chemistry ignites, leading to a heartwarming tale of love!
This delightful romance is packed with charm and warmth! The small-town atmosphere is captivating, and I adored how the community rallied together to support Haven and Luke as they embark on an exciting new business venture. The writing pulls you in, making you feel like you’re living their journey alongside the characters.
If you crave a sweet romance brimming with small-town magic, then mark your calendar, this book hits the shelves on January 26, 2026! Don't miss out on this heartwarming adventure!
Prepare to be swept away in the enchanting world of Gull Island with the thrilling third installment of this series which can be read as a standalone.
Delaney returns to her picturesque hometown for a wedding, only to discover a deep longing for her family and the bonds she cherishes. As she steps in to help her spirited sister, Haven, rescue her struggling store, Delaney unexpectedly finds herself amidst new friendships and the spark of romance. Luke, an irresistible single dad can’t help but be captivated by her charm. Their chemistry ignites, leading to a heartwarming tale of love!
This delightful romance is packed with charm and warmth! The small-town atmosphere is captivating, and I adored how the community rallied together to support Haven and Luke as they embark on an exciting new business venture. The writing pulls you in, making you feel like you’re living their journey alongside the characters.
If you crave a sweet romance brimming with small-town magic, then mark your calendar, this book hits the shelves on January 26, 2026! Don't miss out on this heartwarming adventure!
Review of advance copy
What an absolute delight! Even though this is book three in the Gull Island Series, I had no trouble jumping right in, Jennifer Vido gives just enough context to make new readers feel instantly at home without missing a beat.The story is heartwarming, funny, and filled with just the right amount of twists to keep it engaging from start to finish. It reminded me of a perfect blend between a Hallmark movie, Gilmore Girls, and Dawson’s Creek; comforting, charming, and full of small-town character. Delaney and Luke’s relationship gave me total Lorelai and Luke vibes, and the angle with Nate brought back memories of Joey, Dawson, and Pacey.Jennifer Vido has a remarkable gift for weaving romance, humor, and heartfelt emotion into every scene. The ending left me smiling, feeling cozy, and wishing I could linger just a little longer on Gull Island. This is a beautifully written book that leaves you with that warm, contented feeling only a truly good story can deliver.Simplicity by the Sea is a wonderful, endearing read that stands strong on its own, and it’s made me want to immediately pick up the first two books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a cute romance story that is the 3rd book in the Gull Usland series. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed the storyline and characters. Delaney is a marketing executive in a winery and comes back to her hometown of Gull Island to attend the wedding of her two friends. She realized that the liquor store that she started with her sister who runs the business now is struggling and she decides to stay and help her sister fix their business. She meets Luke who is a single father who is getting over the death of his wife. Delaney and her sister approach Luke to partner with him and romance ensues! This is a sweet Lowcountry romance that will be very enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews