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The Inn at Lavender Bay
"It's a house that takes in strays."
Nadine Eberhardt's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when an unexpected visitor arrives on her doorstep, unraveling the threads of her carefully woven existence. As the revelation of her husband's secret love child emerges, Nadine is thrust into a world of emotional turmoil, forcing her to confront the fractures in her seemingly perfect marriage.
In the wake of this revelation, Nadine makes a poignant decision to return to Lavender Bay, seeking solace in the embrace of her family and the familiar faces of lifelong friends.
1932
Lenore Wainwright and her sister, Laura, are like night and day. However, when a devastating tragedy strikes, it puts their bond to the ultimate test. As Lenore grapples with rebuilding her life from the depths of despair, she faces the poignant choice of whether Laura will play a role in her future or if fate will forever keep them apart.
Two distinctly different women navigate parallel challenges in their lives, decades apart in the small town of Lavender Bay.
Nadine Eberhardt's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when an unexpected visitor arrives on her doorstep, unraveling the threads of her carefully woven existence. As the revelation of her husband's secret love child emerges, Nadine is thrust into a world of emotional turmoil, forcing her to confront the fractures in her seemingly perfect marriage.
In the wake of this revelation, Nadine makes a poignant decision to return to Lavender Bay, seeking solace in the embrace of her family and the familiar faces of lifelong friends.
1932
Lenore Wainwright and her sister, Laura, are like night and day. However, when a devastating tragedy strikes, it puts their bond to the ultimate test. As Lenore grapples with rebuilding her life from the depths of despair, she faces the poignant choice of whether Laura will play a role in her future or if fate will forever keep them apart.
Two distinctly different women navigate parallel challenges in their lives, decades apart in the small town of Lavender Bay.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published December 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 15, 2024
The book is a heartwarming, feel-good read set in a charming seaside town. The author weaves a story full of romance, self-discovery, and small-town charm that makes it easy to get lost in the pages. The main character's journey of healing and finding love is beautifully portrayed, with emotional depth and relatable challenges. Brouder’s descriptions of Lavender Bay are vivid and inviting, making you feel as though you are right there, experiencing the cozy and picturesque setting. The supporting characters add warmth and humor, making the community come alive.
The author's engaging writing style and delightful setting make this book a wonderful escape. Perfect for a relaxing weekend read, it’s a story that leaves you with a smile. Four stars for a lovely, comforting journey with an unforgettable seaside backdrop.
The author's engaging writing style and delightful setting make this book a wonderful escape. Perfect for a relaxing weekend read, it’s a story that leaves you with a smile. Four stars for a lovely, comforting journey with an unforgettable seaside backdrop.
September 24, 2025
So I do like stories with drama and angst. Cheating / Infidelity often lends itself as a plot tool in fueling the angst train.
This story is a historical romance embedded within a contemporary chick lit. Don't look for a love story in the modern story as its only a tale of ventral and moving on from a delusional, scumbag ex .
However dont discontinued the love, friendship and determination story embedded in the middle about a woman in the 30s who struggles with life love and loss.
It was well told but I was dissapointed that Nadine's scummy ex didnt get more karma and she didnt find a new love. If someone knows if Nadines story is continued in the other books, let me know.
This story is a historical romance embedded within a contemporary chick lit. Don't look for a love story in the modern story as its only a tale of ventral and moving on from a delusional, scumbag ex .
However dont discontinued the love, friendship and determination story embedded in the middle about a woman in the 30s who struggles with life love and loss.
It was well told but I was dissapointed that Nadine's scummy ex didnt get more karma and she didnt find a new love. If someone knows if Nadines story is continued in the other books, let me know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2025
delighful
I always thought it would be interesting to live in a really old Victorian and learn its history. That is exactly what the author has done in this book. Two women, each searching for a way to live out her life, use an old house, one as a boarding house, one as an inn. The first one grew up during the depression, and her family was generous to anyone in need. Times were better during the next generation owner, so there was more about the community events. The characters are very believable, the plot is interesting, and I really enjoyed reading this book.
I always thought it would be interesting to live in a really old Victorian and learn its history. That is exactly what the author has done in this book. Two women, each searching for a way to live out her life, use an old house, one as a boarding house, one as an inn. The first one grew up during the depression, and her family was generous to anyone in need. Times were better during the next generation owner, so there was more about the community events. The characters are very believable, the plot is interesting, and I really enjoyed reading this book.
July 6, 2025
The inn at lavender bay
I enjoyed this book. it starts out with a woman leaving her cheating husband. She leaves him and goes home to her mother for a visit. When she finds out the building is up for sale she is interested. Then there is a dual timeline with the beginning of how the Inn came t o be. It was originally going to be a home for a married couple and they wanted to fill the house with children. I don't want to say more and spoil the story line. I am looking to read book #2. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I enjoyed this book. it starts out with a woman leaving her cheating husband. She leaves him and goes home to her mother for a visit. When she finds out the building is up for sale she is interested. Then there is a dual timeline with the beginning of how the Inn came t o be. It was originally going to be a home for a married couple and they wanted to fill the house with children. I don't want to say more and spoil the story line. I am looking to read book #2. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
September 30, 2024
I just finished💜The Inn at Lavender Bay💜 and it was such a sweet read! It really tugged at my heartstrings with its mix of family drama, love and forgiveness. The characters go through some tough trials, but their journeys were so inspiring. I found myself nearly in tears a few times! It’s a light read but super touching—perfect for curling up with a cup of tea. I can't wait to check out more from this author! 4.5 stars💜🪻
January 13, 2025
contemporary and historical in one
I enjoyed this story and the story inside it. Nadine makes the best of a terrible situation and overcomes several obstacles along the way. The story of the previous home owner is also one of overcoming adversity. The setting of a small town on the shore of Lake Erie adds to the stories. Family dynamics are part of each story, too. Well done.
Received free for signing up for author news letter.
I enjoyed this story and the story inside it. Nadine makes the best of a terrible situation and overcomes several obstacles along the way. The story of the previous home owner is also one of overcoming adversity. The setting of a small town on the shore of Lake Erie adds to the stories. Family dynamics are part of each story, too. Well done.
Received free for signing up for author news letter.
September 6, 2024
The Inn at Lavender Bay
This book was excellent. I really enjoyed how it began with Nadine and then went back with the background of how the history of how the house was opened to renters. How John was killed and Johnny grew up with his moms family. Nadine came home and purchased the house and renovated it into a B&B. Looking forward to the next book.
This book was excellent. I really enjoyed how it began with Nadine and then went back with the background of how the history of how the house was opened to renters. How John was killed and Johnny grew up with his moms family. Nadine came home and purchased the house and renovated it into a B&B. Looking forward to the next book.
September 30, 2025
Brief synopsis from the book cover:
Nadine Eberhardt's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when an unexpected visitor arrives on her doorstep, unraveling the threads of her carefully woven existence. As the revelation of her husband's secret love child emerges, Nadine is thrust into a world of emotional turmoil, forcing her to confront the fractures in her seemingly perfect marriage.
In the wake of this revelation, Nadine makes a poignant decision to return to Lavender Bay, seeking solace in the embrace of her family and the familiar faces of lifelong friends.
1932
Lenore Wainwright and her sister, Laura, are like night and day. However, when a devastating tragedy strikes, it puts their bond to the ultimate test. As Lenore grapples with rebuilding her life from the depths of despair, she faces the poignant choice of whether Laura will play a role in her future or if fate will forever keep them apart.
Two distinctly different women navigate parallel challenges in their lives, decades apart in the small town of Lavender Bay.
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
General Fiction
Women’s Fiction
Review:
The book tells the story of two women—Nadine Eberhardt in the present day and Lenore Wainwright in 1932—each dealing with major life upheavals in the same small coastal town. The novel uses a dual timeline structure that works well, with both stories unfolding around the inn at Lavender Bay, which acts as a kind of emotional anchor across generations.
Nadine’s life takes a sharp turn when a stranger shows up at her door, revealing that her husband has a secret child. It’s a tough moment, and Nadine’s decision to return to her hometown feels like a natural response—she’s looking for comfort, clarity, and maybe a way to start over. Her relationships with family and old friends add depth to her journey, and her emotional arc is handled with care.
Back in 1932, Lenore is dealing with a tragedy that tests her already complicated relationship with her sister, Laura. Their personalities clash—Lenore is more grounded, Laura more impulsive—and the story explores how grief and loyalty can pull people together or push them apart. The historical setting adds texture without overwhelming the plot, and Lenore’s story feels just as emotionally real as Nadine’s.
The characters are well developed, and the writing gives them space to feel messy, vulnerable, and human. The inn itself is a nice touch—it’s not just a backdrop, but a place with its own history, quietly connecting the two timelines. Themes like betrayal, forgiveness, and family are explored in a way that feels honest and grounded.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful, character-driven story with a strong sense of place and a satisfying emotional payoff. If you like stories about women finding strength in the face of personal challenges, with a bit of historical depth and a beautiful setting, this one’s reading.
Nadine Eberhardt's seemingly idyllic life is shattered when an unexpected visitor arrives on her doorstep, unraveling the threads of her carefully woven existence. As the revelation of her husband's secret love child emerges, Nadine is thrust into a world of emotional turmoil, forcing her to confront the fractures in her seemingly perfect marriage.
In the wake of this revelation, Nadine makes a poignant decision to return to Lavender Bay, seeking solace in the embrace of her family and the familiar faces of lifelong friends.
1932
Lenore Wainwright and her sister, Laura, are like night and day. However, when a devastating tragedy strikes, it puts their bond to the ultimate test. As Lenore grapples with rebuilding her life from the depths of despair, she faces the poignant choice of whether Laura will play a role in her future or if fate will forever keep them apart.
Two distinctly different women navigate parallel challenges in their lives, decades apart in the small town of Lavender Bay.
My rating:
Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Character development: 4 out of 5 stars
Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers of:
General Fiction
Women’s Fiction
Review:
The book tells the story of two women—Nadine Eberhardt in the present day and Lenore Wainwright in 1932—each dealing with major life upheavals in the same small coastal town. The novel uses a dual timeline structure that works well, with both stories unfolding around the inn at Lavender Bay, which acts as a kind of emotional anchor across generations.
Nadine’s life takes a sharp turn when a stranger shows up at her door, revealing that her husband has a secret child. It’s a tough moment, and Nadine’s decision to return to her hometown feels like a natural response—she’s looking for comfort, clarity, and maybe a way to start over. Her relationships with family and old friends add depth to her journey, and her emotional arc is handled with care.
Back in 1932, Lenore is dealing with a tragedy that tests her already complicated relationship with her sister, Laura. Their personalities clash—Lenore is more grounded, Laura more impulsive—and the story explores how grief and loyalty can pull people together or push them apart. The historical setting adds texture without overwhelming the plot, and Lenore’s story feels just as emotionally real as Nadine’s.
The characters are well developed, and the writing gives them space to feel messy, vulnerable, and human. The inn itself is a nice touch—it’s not just a backdrop, but a place with its own history, quietly connecting the two timelines. Themes like betrayal, forgiveness, and family are explored in a way that feels honest and grounded.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful, character-driven story with a strong sense of place and a satisfying emotional payoff. If you like stories about women finding strength in the face of personal challenges, with a bit of historical depth and a beautiful setting, this one’s reading.
October 7, 2026
I love stories set in beachside towns and this one is a winner1. Nadine needs a start over, and finds it in her hometown of Lavender Bay. She finds an old Victorian house with a beautiful view of the lake, and purchases it with the intent of opening a B & B. Just as you become totally involved with NadiNe's struggles to renovate, the author suddenly starts a story set years earlier with totally different characters. The main character is Lenore. At first I was confused by this, but as Lender's story unfolded, her ties to the old Victorian become apparent. The story switches back to Nadine shortly before the book ends, and here is why I gave the book four stars instead of five. The story abruptly comes to an end, without the development of the new characters added in the last few chapters, and without tying up any of the loose ends of Nadine's story. I find this a cheap ploy publishers use to get you to buy the next in the series. Always find these endings to be disappointing!
June 20, 2026
Audio. (Libby). It was fine. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it. Easy read. Two different periods of time. One family story. The past was about a woman who owned a bed-and-breakfast. The current story is about a lady generations later who owns the same bed-and-breakfast. The story goes back-and-forth between the two generations. The older generation the lady loses her husband to the war. It’s about her life growing up and owning the bed-and-breakfast and restarting her life. The current generation is about the lady who is going through a divorce and starts her life over with the same bed-and-breakfast.
March 24, 2024
Betrayed by her husband and at a loss as to what to do next, Nadine Eberhardt returns home to Lavender Bay. Surrounded by family and friends, Nadine concludes that she wants to live in Lavender Bay permanently. She’s decided on a plan of action to support herself and gets to work to make her dream come true. I don’t want to say more and give spoilers.
A story of betrayal, heartache, healing, making one’s dreams come true, new beginnings, and more.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A story of betrayal, heartache, healing, making one’s dreams come true, new beginnings, and more.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2026
Fin start på serien om Lavender Bay.
Vi møder Nadine, der har opdaget at hendes mand igennem en længere årrække, har haft en elskerinde og et barn udenfor ægteskabet. Hendes liv falder sammen og hun forlanger skilsmisse.
Nadine rejser hjem til sin mor og bliver gen-forelsket i barndomsbyen Lavender Bay. Inden længe, har hun fundet det hus, hun gerne vil bo i. Og købsaftalen falder hurtigt på plads. Nu mangler hun så bare at istandsætte huset......
En rolig og tilbagelænet læsning.
Vi møder Nadine, der har opdaget at hendes mand igennem en længere årrække, har haft en elskerinde og et barn udenfor ægteskabet. Hendes liv falder sammen og hun forlanger skilsmisse.
Nadine rejser hjem til sin mor og bliver gen-forelsket i barndomsbyen Lavender Bay. Inden længe, har hun fundet det hus, hun gerne vil bo i. Og købsaftalen falder hurtigt på plads. Nu mangler hun så bare at istandsætte huset......
En rolig og tilbagelænet læsning.
March 25, 2024
Nadine's return to Lavender Bay is to give herself a chance to heal and recharge after her recent discovery. Reopening the Inn is a new beginning for her even when things don't go as simply as she had hoped. Learning the history of the Inn is a heartwarming story full of tragedy, joy and friendships that last a life time.
May 4, 2024
The Inn at Lavender Bay
This was an unusual story. It travels through several generations about this very large house which was turned into an Inn. It was a matter of survival during the depression years. It tells about the fmilies and their lives up to modern times. Very enjoyable to read.
This was an unusual story. It travels through several generations about this very large house which was turned into an Inn. It was a matter of survival during the depression years. It tells about the fmilies and their lives up to modern times. Very enjoyable to read.
January 15, 2025
Very Enjoyable Read!
One house, two different women, and the "boarders" who filled their lives. This reminds me a little of books by Pamela Kelley, that are set in Nantucket. Both owners of this home on Pearl Street, learned to work hard and keep their heads above water during hard times!
One house, two different women, and the "boarders" who filled their lives. This reminds me a little of books by Pamela Kelley, that are set in Nantucket. Both owners of this home on Pearl Street, learned to work hard and keep their heads above water during hard times!
June 26, 2025
Lavender Bay book 1
Wonderful dual time story. Loved the author's description of the characters. Made me feel close to them. I was born in Buffalo so this was an endearing story for me. Every year my family went to a beach and rented a cottage on Lake Erie. I also liked how the siblings in both times played a big part in the story.
Wonderful dual time story. Loved the author's description of the characters. Made me feel close to them. I was born in Buffalo so this was an endearing story for me. Every year my family went to a beach and rented a cottage on Lake Erie. I also liked how the siblings in both times played a big part in the story.
June 28, 2025
loved it
Generally I do not like books that skip from one generational setting to another. But this book was done just right. Start out as present time go to the beginning of last generation and walk it all the way back to present time. Very good. Thank you for posting it free on book bub June
Generally I do not like books that skip from one generational setting to another. But this book was done just right. Start out as present time go to the beginning of last generation and walk it all the way back to present time. Very good. Thank you for posting it free on book bub June
June 12, 2026
This ended up being surprisingly charming and sweet read. This was a random buy, probably because the cover was beautiful (I know we shouldn’t judge books by their covers!) and I didn’t really know what I was getting into because I enjoy going in blind. While somewhat predictable along the way, I really enjoy this story coming together and loved the flashbacks.
August 3, 2026
I grew attached to all the characters. Loved their growth. Liked the two stories on different timelines and how they came together. The Inn became another character in the story. I thought that the ending was a bit abrupt but it is a series so on with the rest of the story. First time reading this author and thought the book was really well written. This would make a good tv series.
April 8, 2024
The first few chapters are somewhat devastating. As are some later chapters in the "flash back" portion. Only a great author can evoke those kinds of emotions with mere words. This book does however manage to leave the reader with a sense of peace and hope. No cussing and an HEA of sorts.
June 23, 2025
Disappointing.
Nicely written but no plot and ends with no closure or conclusion.
Clearly the author plans a follow up book, sit o this is like a chapter to a longer story. It doesn't stand alone and leaves me with no desire to read "part two".
Sorry I bothered.
Nicely written but no plot and ends with no closure or conclusion.
Clearly the author plans a follow up book, sit o this is like a chapter to a longer story. It doesn't stand alone and leaves me with no desire to read "part two".
Sorry I bothered.
June 24, 2025
Fascinating story
I enjoyed reading about Nadine and how she purchased a property.
The history of that house and it's previous owners was fascinating, and I loved the characters. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
I enjoyed reading about Nadine and how she purchased a property.
The history of that house and it's previous owners was fascinating, and I loved the characters. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
June 24, 2025
Great book
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have bought more in the series and I’m looking forward to reading them. It was well written and held my interest. That’s all I can ask of any book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have bought more in the series and I’m looking forward to reading them. It was well written and held my interest. That’s all I can ask of any book.
October 7, 2025
Great story
I enjoyed this story though I can't imagine Ricjard 's idea of love for his wife and daughter. He was such a jerk, I hope that in the series he gets his rewards for his actions.
I enjoyed this story though I can't imagine Ricjard 's idea of love for his wife and daughter. He was such a jerk, I hope that in the series he gets his rewards for his actions.
October 25, 2025
I enjoyed this book - it was a nice easy read. However the ending was very strange and the book finished abruptly almost as if the author had run out of steam and didn’t know how to bring the story to a conclusion. This ending spoilt the book for me.
October 26, 2025
An unusual book for me to read but I did enjoy it very much and look forward to reading the rest in the series.
I usually read more historical books so this made a relaxing change. I look forward to more episodes of life at Lavender Bay.
I usually read more historical books so this made a relaxing change. I look forward to more episodes of life at Lavender Bay.
November 19, 2025
historical novel
I loved the back and forth in time. The character development was done I was disappointed in the ending. It didn’t imply future novels and fell flat leaving me with an unsatisfied feeling
I loved the back and forth in time. The character development was done I was disappointed in the ending. It didn’t imply future novels and fell flat leaving me with an unsatisfied feeling
March 27, 2024
Great new series!
November 29, 2024
Good story with dual timelines to keep it interesting.
December 15, 2024
Pure nonsense. The author can’t even keep her facts straight for two chapters. Does Herman like water or not? Poor writing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews