A Wedding at the Little Bookshop by the Sea

Micklewick Bay #7

by Eliza J. Scott

Booksellers Florrie Appleton and her fiancé Ed are just three weeks away from their dream wedding. Between hand-selling beloved classics, unveiling Ed’s enchanting window displays and hosting lively book readings with local authors, they’ve managed to plan an intimate ceremony that promises to be everything they’ve ever hoped for – filled with literary delights, lots of laughter and the love of those closest to them.

But when Ed's mother Dawn arrives unannounced on their doorstep, Florrie's world is thrown into chaos like confetti. Dawn claims she's come to help with the wedding preparations, yet she's never shown the slightest interest in her son before. As she starts dismissing their carefully curated shelves and snooping around their cosy cottage, Florrie can't shake the feeling that Dawn’s plans stretch far beyond simply choosing flowers and cake.

With her close-knit group of friends rallying around her and the bookshop's loyal customers offering support, can Florrie protect her relationship and the bookshop that means everything to them both? Or will their happily ever after slip through their fingers like pages torn from one of her treasured books?

An uplifting, emotional feel-good read, perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Jenny Colgan and Phillipa Ashley.

Genres: Chick Lit, Womens Fiction, Romantic

284 pages, Paperback

Published February 13, 2026

About the author

Eliza writes heartwarming romance stories with happy endings.

She lives in North Yorkshire with her family. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book/glued to her Kindle or working in her garden. Eliza also enjoys bracing walks in the countryside, rounded off by a visit to a teashop where she can indulge in another two of her favourite things: tea and cake.

Eliza is inspired by her beautiful surroundings and loves to write stories that will make you cry tears of joy, laughter and sadness.

You can find out more or get in touch here:

Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/elizajscot...

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizajscott/

Reviews

[SJARR ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has come at a perfect time.
I've been looking for some spring reads to get me out of my winter reading slump, and this was great for that.

I think this is my fourth or fifth Eliza J Scott book, and so far I have enjoyed each of them!
She does cozy vibes and cute locations really well, and I love how much each of her stories revolves around such a nice, close- knit group of friends.
It really is quite sweet and comforting. And, if you read multiple of the books in the series, you definitely start to develop an attachment to them. So it is always exciting to get little updates on them and where their lives are headed.

I will say that with all of her books, this one included, there is somewhat of a learning curve involved with the dialogue!
It isn't a bad thing, and you can get used to it pretty quickly, but a lot of the phases/syntax used are pretty unqiue to reflect the Yorkshire setting.
Honestly though, I like that. I find it immerses me in the story really well.

The plot here is (by design), a tad bit frustrating at times.
Toxic mother-in-law, lack of boundary-respecting, and so on... one of those things that can really just burn you up inside honestly.
It's not really a complaint though, because it is clearly written in a way which is condemning her behavior, so yay for that!

Overall, the story is good, and so is the writing,
If you have enjoyed the other books in the series (or one of this authors other, unrelated books) you will probably enjoy this one as well!
I'm always hopeful to read more from her in the future.

Thank you to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and author Eliza J Scott, for providing me with the eARC of "A Wedding at the Little Bookshop by the Sea", in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: March 05, 2026

[Ashleigh Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting cozy romance. It was also my first introduction to Micklewick Bay and the characters of Florrie and Ed. Given that this is book 7, I do feel that I was missing out on some of the back story. But that did not stop me from enjoying this story.

Florrie and Ed are just weeks away from getting married in their small coastal town of Micklewick Bay. They have faced hardships and losses but come out the other side stronger and more in love than ever. They are getting ready for their Hen do and Stag parties. Which has Florrie a bit anxious. And then you add the unexpected arrival of a guest and you begin to wonder if their wedding is going to go off without a hitch.

One of the best parts of this story was the friendships and the community that was established in Micklewick Bay. I loved that the opening scene had Florrie having a girls night with her friends and being able to ask them about the rumor she heard about their plans for her hen do. I also really enjoyed the teasing and bantering that existed between the friends. You could feel the bond and love between them. From there the community that has been built made me want to visit this small town. Everyone knew everyone and they were all willing to help out and be there for each other. This was evident in the support that given to Ed and Florrie when Ed's mother unceremoniously showed up with an ulterior motive. You saw the community rally around Ed and Florrie when their small shop was vandalized. But even more so when Florrie's dad was sick.

This story also highlighted how finding the right person, your person can help make the difficult days easier and the good days even better. I loved that even though I hadn't read the previous six books, you could see the growth in both main characters. I love that the author didn't forget about the beginnings and was resolute in showcasing the growth. Specifically in Ed. But I loved that Florrie recognized some of her own failings and was working to make sure that it didn't affect her relationship with Ed.

Would I go back to Micklewick Bay? Yes, I would. I would love to get to know the beginnings of this story and see where all of the character's journeys take them in the future.

Thank you NetGalley and Storm publishing for an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jnj_turning_pages · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review
A Wedding at the Bookshop by the Sea by Eliza J. Scott
Pub. Date: Match 5, 2026

Florrie and Ed have everything they'll ever need: good friends, their own business (a bookshop), and a perfectly planned wedding. Life is good, until Ed's mother blows into town 3 weeks before the wedding and starts drama. From showing up unannounced, being cruel and abusive to Ed, to even bringing Ed's ex-girlfriend into town; there are no limits to what she will do to try to stop their wedding and steal the bookshop from them. Is Florrie's and Ed's love strong enough to withstand the storm?

What I loved: all of Florrie's friends. Her friend group is built of strong, powerhouse women that love and support each other. Not only are they there emotionally, but they all throw different hen parties for Florrie, since they couldn't decide on one theme. The hen parties were great, fun, and perfect ideas. I really loved how sweet Ed was, and how he finally stood up for himself after years of verbal abuse and neglect.

What I didn't love: had a bit of a slow pace and was very descriptive. Not necessarily a bad thing, but there were a few times I had to go back to see what the characters were saying/asking before a long description/back story was given. There was a little too much information given internally during conversations that it was hard to remember what they were even talking about in the first place.

It has the feel of a 90s/2000s wedding drama movie, but definitely not a comedy. It is part of a series of books with interconnected characters. This is the first book in the series that I read and I didn't have a hard time following. It can be read as a standalone but I'd recommend reading the series if you want to meet each character first and not have the relationships already established.

I recommend it if you like:
📕 Small town & big support
📗 Women supporting women
📘 Family drama
📙 Contemporary romances
📕 Wedding drama
📗 Golden Retriever MMC
📘 Shy but fierce MFC
📙 Love conquering all

Thank you to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wedding at the Little Bookshop by the Sea is a warm, uplifting delight, filled with the gentle charm and emotional sincerity that make small‑town romances so comforting. Florrie Appleton and her fiancé, Ed, are just weeks away from the literary‑themed wedding of their dreams, and the bookshop they run together feels like the beating heart of their life—cozy, bustling, and full of community spirit. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea and stay awhile.

That serenity doesn’t last long. The moment Ed’s estranged mother, Dawn, appears unannounced, the story takes on a wonderfully tense, slightly chaotic energy. Dawn’s sudden interest in wedding planning is suspicious enough, but her habit of critiquing the bookshop, poking around their cottage, and inserting herself into every decision adds a delicious layer of drama. Florrie’s unease is palpable, and the novel captures beautifully how even the happiest moments can wobble when old wounds and complicated family ties resurface.

What keeps the story buoyant is the warmth surrounding Florrie. Her close-knit circle of friends, the loyal customers who treat the bookshop like a second home, and the gentle humour threaded through the narrative all create a sense of community that feels genuinely comforting. The stakes are emotional rather than explosive, but they matter deeply: protecting the shop she loves, safeguarding her relationship, and trusting that love can withstand even the most unexpected disruptions.

It’s a tender, feel‑good read with just enough conflict to keep the pages turning, and plenty of heart to leave you smiling. Perfect for readers who enjoy coastal settings, bookish charm, and romances that celebrate imperfect people finding their way to a happily‑ever‑after.

With thanks to Eliza J Scott, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

My goodness, this is a gorgeous book. Since I first met Florrie and her now fiancé, Ed, I have loved everything about Micklewick Bay. From The Happy Harte Bookshop to the tight-knit circle of friends, there is an outstanding sense of community which just leaps from the pages.

Finally, the long-awaited wedding for Florrie and Ed is just a few weeks away, so it’s all systems go as the final plans are put into place. The fun part, without a doubt, is the selection of Hen Dos the Lasses have planned for Florrie. No spoilers, of course, but I loved reading about them, and particularly enjoyed those that crossed over into Lyttle Stangdale – the village featured in the author’s Life on the Moors series. I do love it when characters cross over. However, don’t worry if this is the first book you have read from either series, as each can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Of course, not everything is plain sailing, and it’s no surprise that the couple find themselves navigating more abysmal behaviour courtesy of Ed’s parents. Thankfully, times like those are when friends and communities come to the fore, and seeing them all rally around to help them overcome their challenges is truly heartwarming.

There are updates about many of the characters as the story moves along, and I must admit, I had a sneaking suspicion that this would prove to be our last visit, but a very welcome note from the author confirmed that book eight is definitely in the pipeline.

Eliza J Scott writes from the heart, and her books are absolutely packed with relatable scenarios, even another Ando probably exists somewhere, and each story leaves the reader feeling utterly contented. If you’re new to her work, I can heartily recommend diving in; you’ll not be sorry.

[Wendy Keenan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not realize until I had already started this book that there are several others in this series. After the fact, I recognize that it probably would have helped for my enjoyment of this book if I had read the others first. While I liked Florrie and Ed, I had moments where I felt like I didn't understand them and the character development was lacking, which I have come to realize may be because I have not read the prior novels. So, if you are picking this book up and haven't read the others, I would recommend putting this one back down until you read those. That all being said, I did enjoy Florrie's relationships with her lasses. This group of women was incredibly heartwarming and clearly love one another. What I didn't like about the book was the way a variety of things in the beginning likely could have been cleared up with better communication. I thought the prank pulled on Florrie and her subsequent stress at the beginning of the book related to her hen party was drawn out for way too long. I also thought a lot of Florrie's stress would have be reduced had she just told Ed what was on her mind. Overall the romance was cute, and I always adore books about books or that take place in a bookshop. I would consider recommending this series to a friend, but would tell them to start at the beginning, not with this particular book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book early!

[Emilie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wedding at the Little Bookshop by the Sea is a lighthearted, heartwarming, and cozy read—the perfect escape for anyone looking for something quick and uplifting.

​The story centers on the relationship between Florrie and Ed, which is a true highlight; their strong bond serves as the emotional core of the book. As the quote says, "love is in the air in Micklewick Bay," and it certainly feels that way throughout. I also really enjoyed the focus on female friendships and the added pinch of drama introduced by Ed’s mother, Dawn, which provided just the right amount of tension. Set against a beautiful seaside backdrop and centered around a charming bookshop, it hits all the right notes for a feel-good story.

​While the plot is quite predictable and lacks any real mystery, it doesn't distract from the experience; it’s meant to be a relaxing, comforting read. I didn't realize this was part of a series until I started, but it works perfectly as a standalone, though it has left me curious enough to want to go back and read the previous books.

​Thank you to Eliza J. Scott, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title.

[Deb McIlroy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved returning to Micklewick Bay for this instalment. The friendships are such a highlight of this series. They are loyal, warm, and full of the kind of support that makes you wish you could pull up a chair in the bookshop and join them.

Of course, no wedding build-up would be complete without a little drama, and Dawn (the future mother-in-law) certainly provides that. Her attempts to interfere and stir the pot add tension and frustration in equal measure, making you root even harder for Florrie to have the day she deserves.

I do think reading the earlier books in the series really enhances the experience, as there’s a lot of shared history that deepens the emotional impact. While it can be enjoyed on its own, knowing the backstory makes the journey even sweeter.

Overall, this is a lovely, cosy, feel-good read filled with friendship, seaside charm, and sweet non-spice romance.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley

A warm hug of a read which showcases strong friend groups, sweet romance & a kick her in the teeth mother-in-law!

This book is part of a series which I didn’t know before going into this. There’s no need to read the previous books before diving into this one however, you will miss some “group lore” that further enriched the characters.

You’ll wish you had friends like Florries who both love & support our MFC who, along with her sweet partner Ed, are finalising preparations for their wedding whilst being interrupt by his insufferable parents! I do wonder why they’re even invited…but I digress.

In short, this is a slightly predictable yet warm, cheerful, and well-written story that’s very cosy albeit a little slow paced for me. The story is perfect for a light, comfy read, especially if you enjoy character-driven romance and small town vibes!

[Karen Mace · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always lovely reconnecting with characters from the previous books, and this time the build up to the wedding of Florrie and Ed is beginning to cause them some headaches, thanks to family interference! So this is a lovely mix of the sweet side of life, alongside that of what should be the happiest day of their lives being turned into the opposite.

Florrie and Ed are just the sweetest couple, happily running the local bookshop that means so much to them and planning their lives together. But when Ed's parents show up, the trouble making begins and it adds enormous strain to the couple.

I found myself so enraged on their behalf on the behaviour of his parents! But you do see the strength of the community around them helping to distract and ease their worries, and to lighten the mood with some lovely warm moments. A lovely read

[Paulette · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s nothing worse than a meddling mother-in-law to be
to heighten Florrie’s pre-wedding nerves, or to wreck havoc on a quiet planned wedding.
Ed’s mother was still fuming that Ed wanted to marry Florrie and still scheming to get the Harte Bookstore out from Ed and Florrie. Family drama, break ins, snooping and relentless pressure makes Florrie wonder if she will ever marry Ed. And then there is the unexpected arrival of Ed’s ex-girlfriend!
A sweet book that is fast paced, with a delightful book store, descriptive places and good friends to help love finally win.
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the eARC. I received a complimentary copy of this book without remuneration and this review is my own opinion.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply awesome! Florrie and Ed's wedding is in three weeks time and they're really looking forward to it. The 'girls' have some great plans for a few hen-dos but there's a bump in the road before Ed and Florrie get their special day. Ed's mum, Dawn, decides to try to derail their plans and makes yet another play at getting her hands on the bookshop. With plenty of support from their friends and Florrie's mum and dad, they're able to put a spanner into Dawn's plans ... again! A wonderful story and I'm delighted that there will be a book 8 in this series. I've really enjoyed all the books so far.
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing, and Eliza J. Scott for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Shannon Kelepolo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have LOVED all of the Micklewick Bay books. One of my favorite things is that all these books are on Kindle Unlimited... but after reading #7, I have finally decided I need to purchase them for myself in paperback! The books are so sweet and so freaking pretty. My shelfs need them. This whole series is giving Hallmark movie feels and if you know me, you know I am all in there. This book in particular takes place in a quaint seaside town- the main characters, book shop owner Florrie and her fiance Ed are just weeks out from their perfect literary themed wedding when an literal storm and many figurative "storms" bring all kinds of drama to the scene. I'm not gonna lie... of course we get a HEA with our little wedding by the sea! What a cute book. Also it goes without saying no spice. 4.5

[Wendi Flint Rank (WendiReviews)]

I adore this series. This is a perfect book for a cold, windy & rainy
week. There was everything from heartbreak and discord to much
love and happiness, culminating in a perfect story that will bring a
happy tear to all of the Momma's in the room. A minute about the
series: One cannot go wrong with this lovely town, and the book
store, with interesting people and, of course, Gerty🐾
I am a huge sucker for puppies in the wedding ceremony.
Ed and Florrie continue to be lovely people, and I bet we are
hoping for another installment very soon. My thanks to
Storm Publishing via NetGalley for the download copy
of the book for review purposes.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Bridget Sadenwater · Rating 4 out of 5]

This latest installment in the Micklewick Bay series was such a cozy, comforting read. It was especially fun to reconnect with familiar characters from the earlier books, though it would still work well as a standalone if you’re new to the series.

This story centers on Florrie and Ed as they prepare for their wedding, bringing all the charm of seaside life along with a touch of drama and heartfelt moments. The romance is sweet and low-spice, focusing more on relationships and community than heat.

Overall, this was a warm, feel-good escape. It’s perfect for readers who love cozy settings, small-town dynamics, and gentle romance.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading the books in the series feels like meeting friends who tell you how life has been treating them. In this book we are told the story of Ed and Florrie the bookshop owners and how they relate to friends and especially family. There's a lot of romance, wedding talks and problems, and hen and stag dos, but also how bad things turn into when people are selfish and unconcerned even with their children. Easy to read, with unexpected events happening to some of the characters in the story, that left me thinking what will happen next.
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Rachel Stansel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This latest in the series goes back to the couple who started it, Flossie and Ed. Still dealing with his horrid parents and planning their upcoming wedding, this installment brings back all of our favorite friends and partners as well as the Happy Hearts bookshop. I enjoyed getting to see the couple at the center again and enjoyed this one very much. It could be read after just book one, but I'd read in order for the most enjoyable experience.

Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Barb Foerst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Florrie and her fiancé Ed are getting married. Together they run the local bookstore. Over the past year, they’ve improved the shop by adding a tea room, taking advantage of local author promotions, and Ed’s windows. But today his mother to showed up to “help” with the wedding. Interesting as Florrie has never been on her friend list. Join the couple as they deal with his parents, join in numerous hen parties with Florrie’s local friends and weather a storm that threatens the wedding. Enjoyable story, wonderful characters, don’t miss it! #NetGalley

[Tasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I so appreciate the advanced copy, however I didn’t realize there were previous novels and felt that without the backstory I just couldn’t continue. It was sweet, but lackluster for me. I really tried to push through, but I’m at 10 days and only 22%. It never takes me 10 days. I just felt it was slow and a little dull. I didn’t feel that pull towards any character.

I’m sure some will love it. Just wasn’t for me and I had to move on.

[Corey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Florrie and Ed are about to get married. The book starts out fun with a cute bachelor/bachelorette party. But unfortunately after that, the feel good story goes the other way because of an unexpected guest: Ed’s mom Dawn.

I found this book hard to read to due to the words and actions of Dawn. The community and other characters are lovely, but I just couldn’t get into the main story line.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book seven in the Micklewick Bay series.
Florrie and Ed are counting down the days to their wedding. Wedding plans and family issues are enough to keep them busy til the big day.
It’s a good addition to this series. Their book store sounds lovely. It’s nice to catch up with everyone else in this series. It’s a nice clean romance with some family drama mixed in.

[Roo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely cute book. Floorie and Ed are booksellers and they are getting married, but his mum is not happy. It’s a story with family issues, love and a great location. It is a series, but I think you can read them as read alones. A fun, happy 4.5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.

[Rebbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book about a couple in the weeks preceding their wedding. Florrie and Ed live in a small village that the author describes beautifully. They own a small bookstore and have wonderful, supportive friends. There is family drama and hints at backstories that made me want to read the previous books in the series to learn more about certain characters.

[Ann Lovell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely read about a fiercely loyal group of friends. Well characterised with subtle inferences that help draw a picture of feelings and group dynamics. A lead up to the wedding is more stressful than normal. Family dynamics push emotions to the limit. All the while underpinned with good friends and a coastal setting.

[Dawn Probert · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled to read this and ended up flicking. I didn’t know any of the backstory or f any details of the other books and I think that would have helped more. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.