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The Seaside Saga #2
The Denim Blue Sea
New York Times bestselling author Joanne DeMaio returns to seaside Stony Point in this novel filled with beach friends, love, and the enchantment of a sandy boardwalk winding along the shore.
During two August weeks, denim designer Maris Carrington and coastal architect Jason Barlow prepare for their much-anticipated wedding. Guests arrive early, turning keys in charming cottage doors to begin their New England summer escape. The wedding is a reason for old friends to gather again; to meet in their shabby beach hangout and get the jukebox cranking; to walk that weathered boardwalk beneath a starry sky; to breathe the sweet salt air. "Cures what ails you," one of the friends, Neil, always said long before his life was sadly claimed. But his legacy was not.
When Maris discovers Neil's long-lost journal, its passages reveal a heartbreaking secret. Can truths be found within its timeworn pages? Can this leather-bound journal unite the friends as their lives begin to fray? A bittersweet family reunion, a surprising encounter from a devastating accident, a shocking confession leaving one marriage shattered--all will test the once close-knit circle. Suddenly this safe haven on the tranquil Connecticut shoreline churns with emotional turmoil, threatening even the beach wedding just days before it is to happen.
Yet like a silver cap on a breaking wave, love and friendship wash ashore with hope, ever shimmering, in The Denim Blue Sea.
The Seaside Saga Reading Order:
Book 1 - Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans
Book 2 - The Denim Blue Sea
Book 3 - Beach Blues
Book 4 - Beach Breeze
Book 5 - The Beach Inn
Book 6 - Beach Bliss
Book 7 - Castaway Cottage
Book 8 - Night Beach
Book 9 - Little Beach Bungalow
Book 10 - Every Summer
Book 11 - Salt Air Secrets
Book 12 - Stony Point Summer
Book 13 - The Beachgoers
Book 14 - Shore Road
Book 15 - The Wait
Book 16 - The Goodbye
Book 17 - The Barlows
Book 18 - The Visitor
Book 19 - Stairway to the Sea
And more Seaside Saga Books
During two August weeks, denim designer Maris Carrington and coastal architect Jason Barlow prepare for their much-anticipated wedding. Guests arrive early, turning keys in charming cottage doors to begin their New England summer escape. The wedding is a reason for old friends to gather again; to meet in their shabby beach hangout and get the jukebox cranking; to walk that weathered boardwalk beneath a starry sky; to breathe the sweet salt air. "Cures what ails you," one of the friends, Neil, always said long before his life was sadly claimed. But his legacy was not.
When Maris discovers Neil's long-lost journal, its passages reveal a heartbreaking secret. Can truths be found within its timeworn pages? Can this leather-bound journal unite the friends as their lives begin to fray? A bittersweet family reunion, a surprising encounter from a devastating accident, a shocking confession leaving one marriage shattered--all will test the once close-knit circle. Suddenly this safe haven on the tranquil Connecticut shoreline churns with emotional turmoil, threatening even the beach wedding just days before it is to happen.
Yet like a silver cap on a breaking wave, love and friendship wash ashore with hope, ever shimmering, in The Denim Blue Sea.
The Seaside Saga Reading Order:
Book 1 - Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans
Book 2 - The Denim Blue Sea
Book 3 - Beach Blues
Book 4 - Beach Breeze
Book 5 - The Beach Inn
Book 6 - Beach Bliss
Book 7 - Castaway Cottage
Book 8 - Night Beach
Book 9 - Little Beach Bungalow
Book 10 - Every Summer
Book 11 - Salt Air Secrets
Book 12 - Stony Point Summer
Book 13 - The Beachgoers
Book 14 - Shore Road
Book 15 - The Wait
Book 16 - The Goodbye
Book 17 - The Barlows
Book 18 - The Visitor
Book 19 - Stairway to the Sea
And more Seaside Saga Books
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2015
316 people are currently reading
1627 people want to read
About the author
Joanne DeMaio
39 books947 followersJoanne DeMaio is the prolific New York Times bestselling author of The Seaside Saga and other novels. She lives with her family in Connecticut and is currently at work on upcoming books.
Joanne enjoys hearing from readers at Facebook.com/JoanneDeMaioAuthor.
Joanne enjoys hearing from readers at Facebook.com/JoanneDeMaioAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
February 5, 2017
Love, memories, friendship
The Denim Blue Sea is that rare beach read; a book that entertains, but that also has a heart and soul. The story takes place in Stony Point, just weeks before the wedding of Jason and Maris. Along with the jitters that usually appear before a wedding, the couple are also haunted by the past, missing loved ones that they always dreamed would share this day with them. The relationships in this book are so genuine, no easy love stories, as Jason and Maris, as well as other couples in the story, struggle with the wounds and memories that could tear them apart. The setting of this book, Stony Point, is as important to this book as the story and characters. The author's images of the beach are exquisitely written, putting the reader on the beach, on the boardwalk, and in the cottages that line the shore.
The Denim Blue Sea is that rare beach read; a book that entertains, but that also has a heart and soul. The story takes place in Stony Point, just weeks before the wedding of Jason and Maris. Along with the jitters that usually appear before a wedding, the couple are also haunted by the past, missing loved ones that they always dreamed would share this day with them. The relationships in this book are so genuine, no easy love stories, as Jason and Maris, as well as other couples in the story, struggle with the wounds and memories that could tear them apart. The setting of this book, Stony Point, is as important to this book as the story and characters. The author's images of the beach are exquisitely written, putting the reader on the beach, on the boardwalk, and in the cottages that line the shore.
March 12, 2015
It's been a year since we first met this group of friends in Joanne's story Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans. One year later, they are all gathering in Stony Point to celebrate the marriage of Maris and Jason. The friends went through a lot a year ago but this is a happy time now. But it's also a time of reflection and for missing those loved ones who are gone.
I love the character of Maris, the bride in this story. She is such a kind, loving woman. She is also a blue jeans designer and finds her inspiration in the water and waves.
I have never been to the ocean but because of the beautiful way that Joanne writes the scenes, I feel like I am there. I experience the sounds, I can see the waves, and I can almost smell and taste the salt air. I am there and I am totally experiencing the ocean. It is so relaxing and beautiful. I know that the author spends a lot of time around the water and beaches and her love of those things come through in her stories.
And a wonderful thing that Joannes does in her books is to take characters and places from her other novels and weave them into her new stories. As I was reading this one, I recognized a few characters from Snowflakes and Coffee Cakes. What a nice surprise! Her stories are connected in a way that makes everything feel so familiar, like a group of friends showing up when you weren't expecting to see them.
I am so thankful that I was asked to read Joanne's first book, Whole Latte Life, way back when. I have read every single one of her books since and I love them all so much. Her stories are always so touching and emotional. When I start one of her books, I know I will get wrapped up in the wonderful world she has created. Thank you, Joanne, for another amazing story!
I love the character of Maris, the bride in this story. She is such a kind, loving woman. She is also a blue jeans designer and finds her inspiration in the water and waves.
I have never been to the ocean but because of the beautiful way that Joanne writes the scenes, I feel like I am there. I experience the sounds, I can see the waves, and I can almost smell and taste the salt air. I am there and I am totally experiencing the ocean. It is so relaxing and beautiful. I know that the author spends a lot of time around the water and beaches and her love of those things come through in her stories.
And a wonderful thing that Joannes does in her books is to take characters and places from her other novels and weave them into her new stories. As I was reading this one, I recognized a few characters from Snowflakes and Coffee Cakes. What a nice surprise! Her stories are connected in a way that makes everything feel so familiar, like a group of friends showing up when you weren't expecting to see them.
I am so thankful that I was asked to read Joanne's first book, Whole Latte Life, way back when. I have read every single one of her books since and I love them all so much. Her stories are always so touching and emotional. When I start one of her books, I know I will get wrapped up in the wonderful world she has created. Thank you, Joanne, for another amazing story!
March 15, 2018
An enjoyable listen to this next book in the friendship saga of a group of friends who live near a beautiful beach.
April 9, 2015
The Denim Blue Sea by Joanne DeMaio gave me a wonderful chance to catch up with all my old friends from Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans.
First of all I must say that cover makes me want to go visit some water. Isn't it pretty? It looks so calm and peaceful. Just looking at the cover makes me feel salt air and mist from the water on my face.
Maris Carrington and Jason Barlow are preparing for the arrival of their long time friends and family members to attend their beach wedding. Everyone is busy with work, planning the wedding, and life. When everyone starts to arrive things get even more complicated and busy. My goodness there is a lot going on in Stony Point.
One of my favorite things about this book is the storyline of the great friendship between this group of friends that has lasted through the years. They grew up together and now some are raising families of their own, other's are getting married, and everyone is busy. However they still take the time out to get together and enjoy this treasured friendship.
Maris and Jason have a few stressful moments before the wedding. There are some things that are trying to pull them apart and a big surprise client that may or may not have a huge effect on Jason's life. I enjoyed watching this loving couple grow, and change as they plan ahead for their wedding and their married life together. They do have a few things to over come and there are challenges thrown in their path.
Maris is busy with her new line of Denim designs. I can just imagine some of the fabulous designs she creates with Ms. DeMaio's wonderful descriptions. I'd love to wear some of the things Maris designs.
Kyle and Lauren face a major trauma to their marriage. It seems like this poor couple has been through so much. Just when they think they have their relationship back on even ground something else happens to try to rip them apart. These two have so much to deal with. My heart broke for them when a huge secret is reveled that just about ends their marriage. I won't tell you what it is but I will tell you it's a biggie.
The thing I love about this deep friendship in this group is that they are there for each other. When one is in need of a friend to lean on, they can count on the group to be there to help them deal with what ever the problem is or just talk.
Maris and Eva also receive a HUGE surprise guest. I don't want to tell you who it is but I will tell you I really enjoyed getting to know their guest.
There is so much happening in Stony Point with all of these wonderful people I have come to consider friends. I was so afraid that their lives were going to be tore apart and lost at sea. I cried for each trauma and obstacle they faced and cheered for each victory they discovered. Just when things were really bad and their lives were falling apart , the tide changed and the sea came in to close the gaps and wounds in everyone and mend their hearts just in the nick of time.
JoAnne DeMaio has once again written a fabulous story with those great charismatic charters that I have grown so fond of. I delighted to see everyone again and to visit Foley's. I certainly enjoyed my return visit to Stony Point. I always enjoy the fascinating journeys that Ms. DeMaio takes me on with descriptive tales.
I will be anxious to see where she takes me with her next book and what fabulous characters I'm going to get to meet or visit with again. I always love to hear that Joanne DeMaio has a new book coming soon. I get really excited and I can not wait to get my hands on the book. She does such a great job of dealing with such heart whelming, sometimes heartbreaking, but always wonderful storylines with great characters that touch your heart. Her books are always an awesome read!
I was given the opportunity to read this great book so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on The Denim Blue Sea.
First of all I must say that cover makes me want to go visit some water. Isn't it pretty? It looks so calm and peaceful. Just looking at the cover makes me feel salt air and mist from the water on my face.
Maris Carrington and Jason Barlow are preparing for the arrival of their long time friends and family members to attend their beach wedding. Everyone is busy with work, planning the wedding, and life. When everyone starts to arrive things get even more complicated and busy. My goodness there is a lot going on in Stony Point.
One of my favorite things about this book is the storyline of the great friendship between this group of friends that has lasted through the years. They grew up together and now some are raising families of their own, other's are getting married, and everyone is busy. However they still take the time out to get together and enjoy this treasured friendship.
Maris and Jason have a few stressful moments before the wedding. There are some things that are trying to pull them apart and a big surprise client that may or may not have a huge effect on Jason's life. I enjoyed watching this loving couple grow, and change as they plan ahead for their wedding and their married life together. They do have a few things to over come and there are challenges thrown in their path.
Maris is busy with her new line of Denim designs. I can just imagine some of the fabulous designs she creates with Ms. DeMaio's wonderful descriptions. I'd love to wear some of the things Maris designs.
Kyle and Lauren face a major trauma to their marriage. It seems like this poor couple has been through so much. Just when they think they have their relationship back on even ground something else happens to try to rip them apart. These two have so much to deal with. My heart broke for them when a huge secret is reveled that just about ends their marriage. I won't tell you what it is but I will tell you it's a biggie.
The thing I love about this deep friendship in this group is that they are there for each other. When one is in need of a friend to lean on, they can count on the group to be there to help them deal with what ever the problem is or just talk.
Maris and Eva also receive a HUGE surprise guest. I don't want to tell you who it is but I will tell you I really enjoyed getting to know their guest.
There is so much happening in Stony Point with all of these wonderful people I have come to consider friends. I was so afraid that their lives were going to be tore apart and lost at sea. I cried for each trauma and obstacle they faced and cheered for each victory they discovered. Just when things were really bad and their lives were falling apart , the tide changed and the sea came in to close the gaps and wounds in everyone and mend their hearts just in the nick of time.
JoAnne DeMaio has once again written a fabulous story with those great charismatic charters that I have grown so fond of. I delighted to see everyone again and to visit Foley's. I certainly enjoyed my return visit to Stony Point. I always enjoy the fascinating journeys that Ms. DeMaio takes me on with descriptive tales.
I will be anxious to see where she takes me with her next book and what fabulous characters I'm going to get to meet or visit with again. I always love to hear that Joanne DeMaio has a new book coming soon. I get really excited and I can not wait to get my hands on the book. She does such a great job of dealing with such heart whelming, sometimes heartbreaking, but always wonderful storylines with great characters that touch your heart. Her books are always an awesome read!
I was given the opportunity to read this great book so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on The Denim Blue Sea.
April 1, 2016
I feel like I read a different book than everyone else since there are so many 5 star reviews.
I did read Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans first since it was the first in this series and while a few things sort of irritated me in that book, I enjoyed it enough to purchase The Denim Blue Sea.
The characters were done well, but some of the descriptions were constantly repeated, which made me crazy. Almost every scene in which Kyle played a part had a sentence or two where we were told how heavily he was perspiring and in fact, in numerous scenes he opened a new package of undershirts and would throw the sweaty one in the trash. Really? Why did this crop up all. the. time.? I really thought he was going to have a heart attack or something because of the big point made of this, but nothing ever came of it.
Neill, the sainted Neill also bothered me. Every person has guilt or some memory of Neill that will NEVER be as good again because he's dead. Every person.
I think this book could have done with a better editor and maybe they would have cleared up some of the very often repeated sentences which would have made this a better read. This is the last book by this author I'll be purchasing.
I did read Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans first since it was the first in this series and while a few things sort of irritated me in that book, I enjoyed it enough to purchase The Denim Blue Sea.
The characters were done well, but some of the descriptions were constantly repeated, which made me crazy. Almost every scene in which Kyle played a part had a sentence or two where we were told how heavily he was perspiring and in fact, in numerous scenes he opened a new package of undershirts and would throw the sweaty one in the trash. Really? Why did this crop up all. the. time.? I really thought he was going to have a heart attack or something because of the big point made of this, but nothing ever came of it.
Neill, the sainted Neill also bothered me. Every person has guilt or some memory of Neill that will NEVER be as good again because he's dead. Every person.
I think this book could have done with a better editor and maybe they would have cleared up some of the very often repeated sentences which would have made this a better read. This is the last book by this author I'll be purchasing.
January 23, 2016
I won this book and I am so glad I got a chance to read this! I was glued to the pages and couldn't put it down! I know most people consider this a beach read but I enjoyed it so much more with a chill in the air as I imagined myself walking the beaches looking for driftwood and sea stars! I loved how this book made my laugh, cry, and cheer at the same time. This book reminded me that no one is really gone that they will always live forever in your heart and memories! I highly recommend this book and I have already told my family and friends that this is a must read! I will definitely be reading more from Joanne DeMaio!
January 19, 2017
Another awesome book by Joanne DeMaio. I was given an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review. I loved revisiting Maris and Eva and the gang again. Jason is still trying to get over losing his brother Neil so violently. Maris is reconnected with her sister and her Aunt.
The way Ms. DeMaio writes her stories you feel all the emotional ups and downs that each character is going through. When I finished the book I was a little disappointed because I had to say goodbye to the characters.
This is definitely a book that I would pick up and read again and again. A must read for all romance lovers.
The way Ms. DeMaio writes her stories you feel all the emotional ups and downs that each character is going through. When I finished the book I was a little disappointed because I had to say goodbye to the characters.
This is definitely a book that I would pick up and read again and again. A must read for all romance lovers.
March 22, 2015
A special thank you to the publisher for a complimentary reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Joanne DeMaio returns to the idyllic coast, with sun-bleached shells, driftwood, and all the treasures of the sea, to catch up with familiar friends from her previous books, with her latest contemporary, THE DENIM BLUE SEA, a magical poetic book of life’s lessons, inspiration, and wisdom --- "something lovely can come from destruction."
Loss, love, pain, happiness, tears, laughter, and memories bring wisdom . . . connecting all these special friends amid the mysterious sounds of the sea.
A group of friends gather in charming Stony Point of Long Island South to celebrate the marriage of Maris and Jason, a highly creative couple; both workaholics, with challenging careers they love. However, before they get to the altar, they both have to face some major obstacles and tough choices, as well as some of the others in the wedding party. “Do you know what happens if you leave the past alone? It’ll chase you down.“
From Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans we met Maris, trading her Chicago studio for a New England shingled cottage with her successful denim design career, when she uncovered some family secrets when settling her father’s estate.
We also met Jason, guilt ridden after his brother’s death-a successful architect who returns home to this same beach town to deal with his demons, and the loss of his leg. And Eva, Maris’ oldest friend, now her sister, and other friends, Lauren and Kyle; all struggling to overcome their past, in order to move on with their futures.
As the novel opens, it is only two weeks before the big wedding of Jason and Maris. As weddings go, emotions are high, wedding guests, showers, rehearsal dinner, speeches, and much preparation. Eva and Maris have been best friends growing up together in a New England shoreline town, finding later they were sisters and now her matron of honor.
With all the excitement, Maris is busy trying to create a new denim line; struggling to find inspiration, having to spend time in New York with her company. However, when she finds Neil’s journal, she may just find her answers, to more than one problem. One secret causes even more stress for this couple, , and may jeopardize their upcoming nuptials.
Jason is stressed to the nines, as he has to face one of his biggest challenges. He has to decide if he wants to take on the renovation of the home of his worst enemy, the person who killed his brother and left him without a leg, which causes him pain every day.
Nothing will bring back Neil, his brother from an enemy he never saw coming, a car who drove straight into them one fateful day on his motorcycle. So now he is choosing a best man in Neil’s place. He still continues to talk to his brother and seeks answers to life’s stresses. Could he now be meeting this enemy face- to- face? His nightmare has returned. What would his dad or his brother say? They were the wise ones. He is left without either of them. Could it be that the destruction that came to his life eight years ago, will lead to good? It may not be easy getting there and sometimes pride and hurt have to take a back seat, in order to experience the joy and the lesson. He is feeling the loss all over again.
Lauren and Kyle are back, having worked out some of their issues in the past; however, secrets will arise which may tear them apart, once again. Kyle always feels Neil is haunting his marriage, floating in and out of their lives like a fog, wisps of him always hovering close by. Can they move past the ghost between them?
Wow, I bookmarked so many pages, packed with stunning poetic words, phrases, and takeaways. Each time after reading one of Joanne’s books, am left pondering, “How can the next be better than the previous?” . . . Am always amazed. Each has its own special voice, gift, and unique memorable inspiring message.
Some many loved ones have passed, and each character has their own memories from fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, past loves, friends . . . I particularly loved Neil’s journal and what he left behind through his breathtaking journal and poetic words; his lovely view of the sea as related to life, offering inspiration to Maris and Jason and comfort for others. His soul lives on through his words.
The wise words, and dog tags from Jason's father about the enemy- priceless! He recalls his dad talking about Vietnam. “No, he did not like being in the jungle waiting for the enemy, but being there taught him more about life than anything before, or after.” His words ring true when thinking of Ted, “Just because you don’t like something, doesn’t mean you don’t do it.”
Life works in mysterious ways, rich with meaning, but poignant at the same time. A journal left behind full of inspiration of the sea, almost spiritual--as it relates to life, creating something beautiful and memorable to live on.
As always, love escaping to Stony Point, where you walk along the water's edge with storybook cottages, the driftline, and sea breezes, catching up with old friends, who have felt tragedy and loss for a novel of sea, sky, denim, love, longing, and every shade of blue.
The DENIM BLUE SEA, is not a just a feel-good fluff beach book, romance, or family drama----a literary contemporary of suspense, intrigue, and hidden secrets which come to light, lessons to be learned from experience, with stunning metaphors as life works in mysterious ways, rich with meaning, but poignant at the same time. Look forward to the next book, with Elsa’s surprise . . .
Joanne writes with passion, creativity, in an almost magical lyrical poetic prose, making the words dance, and come alive on the page. If you have not had the opportunity of reading her previous books, would highly recommend, as have read them all.
Her writing is unique, a piece of art, through her characters, a denim fashion designer, an architect, an artist, a baker, a craftsman, and others are inspired by God’s nature and beauty. A master storyteller, connecting her books, her characters, and their lives. Each can be read as a standalone; however, to get the full experience, you will want to read them all.
My Reviews-Joanne's previous books:
True Blend
Snowflakes & Coffee Cakes
Blue Jeans & Coffee Beans
Whole Latte Life
Judith D. Collins Must Read Books
Joanne DeMaio returns to the idyllic coast, with sun-bleached shells, driftwood, and all the treasures of the sea, to catch up with familiar friends from her previous books, with her latest contemporary, THE DENIM BLUE SEA, a magical poetic book of life’s lessons, inspiration, and wisdom --- "something lovely can come from destruction."
Loss, love, pain, happiness, tears, laughter, and memories bring wisdom . . . connecting all these special friends amid the mysterious sounds of the sea.
A group of friends gather in charming Stony Point of Long Island South to celebrate the marriage of Maris and Jason, a highly creative couple; both workaholics, with challenging careers they love. However, before they get to the altar, they both have to face some major obstacles and tough choices, as well as some of the others in the wedding party. “Do you know what happens if you leave the past alone? It’ll chase you down.“
From Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans we met Maris, trading her Chicago studio for a New England shingled cottage with her successful denim design career, when she uncovered some family secrets when settling her father’s estate.
We also met Jason, guilt ridden after his brother’s death-a successful architect who returns home to this same beach town to deal with his demons, and the loss of his leg. And Eva, Maris’ oldest friend, now her sister, and other friends, Lauren and Kyle; all struggling to overcome their past, in order to move on with their futures.
As the novel opens, it is only two weeks before the big wedding of Jason and Maris. As weddings go, emotions are high, wedding guests, showers, rehearsal dinner, speeches, and much preparation. Eva and Maris have been best friends growing up together in a New England shoreline town, finding later they were sisters and now her matron of honor.
With all the excitement, Maris is busy trying to create a new denim line; struggling to find inspiration, having to spend time in New York with her company. However, when she finds Neil’s journal, she may just find her answers, to more than one problem. One secret causes even more stress for this couple, , and may jeopardize their upcoming nuptials.
Jason is stressed to the nines, as he has to face one of his biggest challenges. He has to decide if he wants to take on the renovation of the home of his worst enemy, the person who killed his brother and left him without a leg, which causes him pain every day.
Nothing will bring back Neil, his brother from an enemy he never saw coming, a car who drove straight into them one fateful day on his motorcycle. So now he is choosing a best man in Neil’s place. He still continues to talk to his brother and seeks answers to life’s stresses. Could he now be meeting this enemy face- to- face? His nightmare has returned. What would his dad or his brother say? They were the wise ones. He is left without either of them. Could it be that the destruction that came to his life eight years ago, will lead to good? It may not be easy getting there and sometimes pride and hurt have to take a back seat, in order to experience the joy and the lesson. He is feeling the loss all over again.
Lauren and Kyle are back, having worked out some of their issues in the past; however, secrets will arise which may tear them apart, once again. Kyle always feels Neil is haunting his marriage, floating in and out of their lives like a fog, wisps of him always hovering close by. Can they move past the ghost between them?
Each character has suffered tragedy and loss, and like a pair of jeans— “Life’s been lived fully in them, with distressed marks suggesting days of walking the high tide line, of wading, of each living and breathing; leaving behind only seaside abrasion on blue denim.” However each have been given something beautiful almost as a gift, after the loss and suffering.
Wow, I bookmarked so many pages, packed with stunning poetic words, phrases, and takeaways. Each time after reading one of Joanne’s books, am left pondering, “How can the next be better than the previous?” . . . Am always amazed. Each has its own special voice, gift, and unique memorable inspiring message.
Some many loved ones have passed, and each character has their own memories from fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, past loves, friends . . . I particularly loved Neil’s journal and what he left behind through his breathtaking journal and poetic words; his lovely view of the sea as related to life, offering inspiration to Maris and Jason and comfort for others. His soul lives on through his words.
The wise words, and dog tags from Jason's father about the enemy- priceless! He recalls his dad talking about Vietnam. “No, he did not like being in the jungle waiting for the enemy, but being there taught him more about life than anything before, or after.” His words ring true when thinking of Ted, “Just because you don’t like something, doesn’t mean you don’t do it.”
Life works in mysterious ways, rich with meaning, but poignant at the same time. A journal left behind full of inspiration of the sea, almost spiritual--as it relates to life, creating something beautiful and memorable to live on.
As always, love escaping to Stony Point, where you walk along the water's edge with storybook cottages, the driftline, and sea breezes, catching up with old friends, who have felt tragedy and loss for a novel of sea, sky, denim, love, longing, and every shade of blue.
The DENIM BLUE SEA, is not a just a feel-good fluff beach book, romance, or family drama----a literary contemporary of suspense, intrigue, and hidden secrets which come to light, lessons to be learned from experience, with stunning metaphors as life works in mysterious ways, rich with meaning, but poignant at the same time. Look forward to the next book, with Elsa’s surprise . . .
“Always, no matter where life takes us, no matter how far we journey, those waves forever break on the beach. Always.”
Joanne writes with passion, creativity, in an almost magical lyrical poetic prose, making the words dance, and come alive on the page. If you have not had the opportunity of reading her previous books, would highly recommend, as have read them all.
Her writing is unique, a piece of art, through her characters, a denim fashion designer, an architect, an artist, a baker, a craftsman, and others are inspired by God’s nature and beauty. A master storyteller, connecting her books, her characters, and their lives. Each can be read as a standalone; however, to get the full experience, you will want to read them all.
My Reviews-Joanne's previous books:
True Blend
Snowflakes & Coffee Cakes
Blue Jeans & Coffee Beans
Whole Latte Life
Judith D. Collins Must Read Books
March 15, 2017
The Denim Blue Sea continues where Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans left off in beautiful Stony Point where Maris Carrington and Jason Barlow are preparing for their August beach wedding with the help of their long-time friends. Not only do Maris and Jason have wedding stress but friends and married couple Kyle and Lauren are also still going through rough patches in their marriage. While I liked all of the characters in the book, I was not happy with Kyle's behavior for a bit and wondered if things were really going to work out in their marriage because of his way of thinking, but I could understand why he acted as he did. I've enjoyed reading about this group of friends and like how they've been there for each other for many years, through good and bad times. It was wonderful being transported to this small beach town again. Joanne's DeMaio's descriptions of the settings indeed makes it feel like you're there sitting on that dock or porch drinking a glass of wine with these wonderful characters.
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 3, 2018
This is the 2nd in the Stony Point Series by Joanne DeMaio. This was a fantastic read. It continues the story of the beach town of Stony Point and the group of friends who live there. It tells the tale of family, love, marriage, life issues, and especially dealing with grief. Joanne's descriptions of everything made me feel like I was there, experiencing everything her characters were along with her descriptions of the beach and stars. I laughed and shed a few tears along the way. I've now completed the first three books and now I can't wait to read the rest of them. Love, love, love Stony Point. Beach Breeze, you're next. Keep writing about Stony Point Joanne.
May 4, 2020
Maris and Jason are about to be married. Kyle once more is haunted by doubts. Jason is still recovering from his brother's death, Neil is like a ghost for him and Kyle. The Denim Blue Sea is filled with descriptions of the sea of the beach. The smell of the salt air, the difference in the ocean itself, the bright sun of a beach community, the cool of evenings at the water's edge, the way waves come into shore (wild and fast tumbling and rough or the slow rolls) Having grown up by the ocean it made me long for the beach. Joanne DeMaio's story and descriptions are wonderful.
April 10, 2015
I need to remind myself that I don't like her books. I'm always drawn to them by the titles, especially because I love books set on the coast, but the storyline and writing are usually so cheesy. I kept reading simply for the descriptions of the beach and water, but overall would not recommend it.
May 3, 2021
If a book makes me cry happy or sad tears, I give it 5 stars. This book caused happy tears!!
It’s the second book in a series. It can be read as a stand alone, but the characters are developed in the first book, Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans.
Easy fun beach read!!
It’s the second book in a series. It can be read as a stand alone, but the characters are developed in the first book, Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans.
Easy fun beach read!!
February 23, 2017
I am loving this series. It has twists to keep your interest and full of emotions where you laugh but also cry. True believable characters. You can read as a stand alone but the series gives you the full impact of everyone's lifes and how everyone becomes connected. Strong characters with real life problems and how they struggle but come out good in the end. Couldn’t put it down.
November 21, 2019
Love these books and how you almost feel as if you are in the story and have a picture painted in your mind of the beach and the little houses. The only reason I am giving it 4 stars is because the women "tucked their hair behind their ear" way too often. Anxious to read the next book!
September 14, 2022
beautiful depiction of life
Ups and downs and back again, this book isn’t only pie in the sky, it’s like real life! Things happen, there are never ending challenges and changes…lots of joy and laughter…some sadness too. I love it! Love it! Can’t wait to read book 3 next!!!
Ups and downs and back again, this book isn’t only pie in the sky, it’s like real life! Things happen, there are never ending challenges and changes…lots of joy and laughter…some sadness too. I love it! Love it! Can’t wait to read book 3 next!!!
October 15, 2025
Still love the storyline going on but too much scenery explanation. Also, some of the story drags out too much. Taking a break from the series but will definitely return.
April 21, 2015
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Maris and Jason are getting married and they and all their friends are still mourning the loss of Jason’s brother Neil. Neil is the one that should be standing next to Jason as his best man and there beside him as plans are made.
There is much more to this extremely moving story but Neil does play a crucial part in several of the subplots. The real key to the whole story is friendship and these characters are written so well they become real to the reader incredibly fast. The Sea becomes a character all its own and effects each character in a profound way from its smell making things better and bringing back memories to its color painting pictures and giving Maris ideas for her designs to the waves mimicking life in its calmness or turbulent sides. I also loved all the hydrangeas blooming at the time the story was set. I could almost smell their scent and that of the sea from the pages of the book.
As always Joanne DeMaio has written an extraordinary story that will stay with you long after your turn the last page.
Maris and Jason are getting married and they and all their friends are still mourning the loss of Jason’s brother Neil. Neil is the one that should be standing next to Jason as his best man and there beside him as plans are made.
There is much more to this extremely moving story but Neil does play a crucial part in several of the subplots. The real key to the whole story is friendship and these characters are written so well they become real to the reader incredibly fast. The Sea becomes a character all its own and effects each character in a profound way from its smell making things better and bringing back memories to its color painting pictures and giving Maris ideas for her designs to the waves mimicking life in its calmness or turbulent sides. I also loved all the hydrangeas blooming at the time the story was set. I could almost smell their scent and that of the sea from the pages of the book.
As always Joanne DeMaio has written an extraordinary story that will stay with you long after your turn the last page.
May 1, 2015
Such a wonderful story that tugged on my heart strings and created a bond with the wonderful characters that lived within the pages of the book. Such a wonderful setting with dialogue that rings true to real life and a story that is as compelling as it is intriguing. Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans is a story that is perfect for the beach, or a group of best friends, a book club...you name it. There is something for everyone in this novel. It is truly a blessing that DeMaio wrote another book, The Denim Blue Sea, that allows us to revisit these wonderful characters and picturesque location. Make sure after you read Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans to pick up The Denim Blue Sea. 4.5 stars
November 19, 2019
This is the 2nd book in the Seaside Saga series and really enjoyed it. I love seeing the characters that I have already met and how their lives are changing. Plus new characters being introduced into the story line. Can't wait to read the next book. I can hear the waves on the beach and the the smell of the salty air as I am reading.
April 9, 2015
I enjoyed this book, it was nice to see the characters of Stony Point, a beach town in Connecticut. The book has love, family, friends, and relationships. If you have never read Joanne Demaio before, I encourage you to read one of her books, I have enjoyed them all!
December 30, 2018
The Denim Blue Sea is the second book in Joanne Demaio's beach saga. It picks up right where Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans leaves off. It can be read as a stand alone due to the way she subtly brings you up to speed, but I don't know why you would want to. It's a wonderful story that takes place on Stony Point, and consists of a group of about 8 beach friends. This books main storyline is about Maris and Jason's upcoming marriage. It depicts all the work, stress and emotions that take place while preparing for the big day. What I really enjoyed is that the author includes another character, so to speak, the spirit (or memory) of Jason's deceased brother, Neil. It makes for a very interesting read. Joanne writes in such a way that you can almost feel the sand beneath your feet, smell the salt air, and hear the waves crashing on the beach. I was so immersed in this story, it was as if I was right there along side them all. I can not wait to see what might come next for these friends in Stony Point. I feel like I've been on a beach vacation without ever leaving home!
September 1, 2025
Book 2 in the series .. wasn’t enthralled with book 1 but so many gave the series such great reviews I felt the need to give it another chance and try to love it as so many before me had done. Yeah, but no. The writing is flat, the characters are unappealing and therefore I found myself to really not care if Kyle screwed around, if Maris walked away or stayed and on and on. The scenes were forced the author tries to interject tidbits specific to the area of the shore that serves as the backdrop to the stories but again she misses the mark. Because these books had such praise from others I’m going to say this is a me thing - being this area of the country is where I grew up and many of the locales mentioned are very clear to me but she did not capture them as they are or as she could have on her writing maybe I’m just too close to the backdrop and her version is a miss for me. That was distracting which took away from the overall storyline. Maybe a good beach read if you don’t want to care about anything 🤷🏼♀️
May 22, 2018
I just finished Denim Blue Sea by Joanne Demaio, every time I finish one of the books in the beach series, I feel grateful. This author has a magical way of writing about what is most important in life, family, friends, and love above all else, all the while writing about a beach side town that you will fall in love with wishing it was a town in "real" life that you could pack up your car and disappear when life become too stressful or when you begin to question life, to cure what ails you. This is the beach version of the books by Jan Karon that highlight the Mitford town and their residents. You will fall in love with each character in this beach side series, each resident with their own magical place to make these books memorable and ones that you will hold in your hearts for a long time to come! I have two books left in this series, one that I was just notified is ready to pick up at the library, and one I put in a request for the library to order, I do not want this series to end, and I know when I close the last page of the last book I will feel an emptiness in my heart and wonder how the residents move on with their lives.
May 31, 2025
“More often than not, what you think is an enemy, isn’t.”
I really enjoyed this book! It is The Seaside Saga book 2 but can be read as a stand alone as I didn’t feel at any point that I was missing something not having the read the first book.
This is a raw and emotional peek into some complicated relationships dealing with trauma, past hurts, love, friendship, and the prospect of losing yourself in someone else. The characters felt so real and are dealing with very relatable problems. And they’re near the beach, which is practically a character in and of itself.
Also, the cover is stunning! I am here for the beachy reads right now. Bring on the summer! ☀️ 🏖️ 👙
“Just because you don’t like something, doesn’t mean you don’t do it.”
I really enjoyed this book! It is The Seaside Saga book 2 but can be read as a stand alone as I didn’t feel at any point that I was missing something not having the read the first book.
This is a raw and emotional peek into some complicated relationships dealing with trauma, past hurts, love, friendship, and the prospect of losing yourself in someone else. The characters felt so real and are dealing with very relatable problems. And they’re near the beach, which is practically a character in and of itself.
Also, the cover is stunning! I am here for the beachy reads right now. Bring on the summer! ☀️ 🏖️ 👙
“Just because you don’t like something, doesn’t mean you don’t do it.”
July 7, 2019
2nd in the Beach series and loved it. Jason and Maris plan their beach side wedding. Having discovered her sister is Eva, in last book, she now gets the added surprise of her Mom’s Sister Elsa arriving for wedding. Their reunion is so wonderful. I was relieved to have this reunion sweet and not filled with drama as you sometimes find in these stories. Neil, Jason’s deceased Brother, looms large throughout the book but, has a lot of wisdom and lessons to add to the story. Lauren and Kyle’s story continues with a happy ending also. I had goosebumps through the last 50 pages of the book and will look forward to continuing this series though the summer.
May 19, 2020
I had to stop reading this book at chapter 13 so that I could re-read the first in this series that I had finished 6 years ago. I normally don't have that much of an issue reading a sequel and not recognizing any of the characters or anything else. But with this I just couldn't get beyond the feeling that a whole lot of the story was missing. However, after reading the first book, I was able to continue and found I enjoyed this book more. However, as with the first book, I still had trouble connecting with the characters, especially the women. I just feel that I had started reading in the middle of the book and a whole lot of the story wasn't there. Still, I enjoyed the book.
August 15, 2020
I truly enjoy Joanne DeMaio's descriptions of the Connecticut shoreline. She draws her characters seemingly from the sea itself. And when it came to the long-awaited wedding of Maris and Jason, the events leading up to the big day were truly magical. However, I found the story to be overly drawn out. The secondary story of Kyle and Lauren revealed some secrets and having both Maris and Jason almost not go through with the wedding were solid events that anchored the story. But I think there were too many characters in the mix.
Overall I felt the story dragged a bit. And at its conclusion I felt there was something missing.
Overall I felt the story dragged a bit. And at its conclusion I felt there was something missing.
July 15, 2022
The Denim Blue Sea by Joanne DeMaio is the 2nd book in the Seaside Saga series.
What could be more perfect than a summer wedding by the sea? What could be less perfect? What could be better than old friends getting together, catching up? What could go wrong? As old hurts resurface, as old secrets come to light, as old rivalries resurface, and old relatives reappear, all may not be as it seems, all is not perfect. But the late Neil always said that the "sweet salt air cures what ails you". Will the sweet salt air and the sweet summer season be just the thing that that the wedding guests need to cure what ails them? Find out in the 2nd book of this addictive series!
What could be more perfect than a summer wedding by the sea? What could be less perfect? What could be better than old friends getting together, catching up? What could go wrong? As old hurts resurface, as old secrets come to light, as old rivalries resurface, and old relatives reappear, all may not be as it seems, all is not perfect. But the late Neil always said that the "sweet salt air cures what ails you". Will the sweet salt air and the sweet summer season be just the thing that that the wedding guests need to cure what ails them? Find out in the 2nd book of this addictive series!
July 31, 2017
This book continues the story that began in the book,Blue Jeans and Coffee Beans. It continues the love story of Maris and Jason as they get ready for their wedding. It is also the story of life-long friends and how as a group they get through the ups and downs of life. What I really liked about the story was how the author used the waves, sand,stars and the sky as characters to explain how we are all connected in life. If you have a love for the ocean and all things beach you will enjoy this story.
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