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The Seaside Photographer

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She needed a new life. He needed to solve a case. What they wound up needing most was each other.

Daniella Martin returned to the small seaside town of Harbor’s Head, Maine, pregnant and broken-hearted. Trying to build a life for her and her son, she takes advantage of the town’s new renovation program and buys an old, damaged building for $1 to start her own business. But being a full-time photographer and a full-time mom, she realizes there’s no way she can meet the town’s deadline to have it fully complete. At least, she can’t do it alone.

Private Investigator Heath Malone is in town to quietly locate an elusive missing person. The last thing he expected was to fall for the town’s sweet, sharp-witted photographer, who makes him want to believe in love again. Offering to help Daniella renovate her building, in return for living in one of the apartments, is just the cover story he needs to stay in town as he solves this case. But the more they work together, the more he discovers how truly perfect they are as a couple. He knows he will eventually have to leave and go back to his old life, but everything in his heart is screaming for him to stay and give their love a chance.

When Heath finally uncovers the missing woman's true identity, he opens a Pandora's Box of secrets he never intended to find. Deceiving the very people who have made this town feel like home, the truth threatens to destroy the lives and relationships of everyone around him, including his and Daniella's. Can the woman who made him believe in love again give him a second chance? Or are some mistakes too big to forgive?

234 pages, Paperback

Published March 10, 2026

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About the author

Brooke Burton

25 books106 followers
Brooke writes closed-door, mildly sweary contemporary romance. A tortured artist who began writing plays in the 3rd grade, she lost her muse as a teen and struggled for years to write again. Finally, after being inspired by some old friends during the pandemic, her writing came to fruition again in what became her first published novel.

Inspired by strong women who have very little tolerance for bull, she enjoys exploring equality in relationships with broken characters who clearly have made past mistakes. Don't we all?

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5 stars
24 (51%)
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19 (40%)
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4 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Momma T's Books.
671 reviews39 followers
March 19, 2026
It was cute. It's a quick read that makes you smile. A small town romance with a mystery mixed in. The MMCs attention towards the child of the FMC was what kept me going. When you step up to be a role model for a child that isn't yours and doesn't have that father figure in his life ... you will always come out on top.
Profile Image for Audi Walbridge.
192 reviews4 followers
March 20, 2026
I thought this was a cute small town romance.
It was a quick read with minimal spice.

I liked the storyline, Heath a PI is sent to find a missing woman and ends up meeting Daniella, a photographer, single mother, and the owner of a new building she was restoring.

Happenstance brought them together and their relationship bloomed slowly but in a good way. Heath finds who he was looking for but it wasn't what he was expecting. How they navigate that news will shape the story.

I've read a few of Brooke's books and they have always kept me engaged.
24 reviews
March 24, 2026
What a wonderfully written love story with all the feels: uncertainty, secrets, hugs and kisses, the other guy, the other woman, a surprise twist, and romance galore. You just have to read this one to see for yourself. You'll love it too!
104 reviews1 follower
March 24, 2026
Danielle and Heath met while she’s focused on getting her building renovated, building her business and being the best mom she can be… and while he’s in town as a PI. In short order they go from strangers, to laughing together as dates, to supporting each other in the daily. Will Daniella open her heart to this man? Will Heath choose her and her son and stay in town? And what in the world has happened to the person Heath has been searching for?

Brooke Burton has done an amazing job creating an entire family in the Martins that you just want to cheer for! I wholeheartedly recommend this book, if you don’t mind a few mild swears. There are some sizzling kisses, but no real bedroom information, which is just perfect in my opinion. These characters felt like people I could be friends with, and I just adored the relationship Daniella had with her father and brothers. I didn’t feel like any of the characters had lied to each other, which meant that I felt like the relationship had a strong footing. I cannot wait for Brooke to finish the rest of the books in the series!

—While this book happened after the novella The Seaside Wedding, it can be read as a standalone. We meet Daniella and Heath after their meet-cute in The Seaside Wedding, but I don’t feel like you should let it stop you from reading this book if you haven’t read that one first. —
Profile Image for Meg Hall.
126 reviews3 followers
March 14, 2026
I thought this was a really cute investigative story with a nice bit of romance mixed in. It is an interconnected standalone. I liked how the POV switched between Daniella and Heath because it let us learn a lot about the characters and see situations from both perspectives, though I think I would’ve loved even more of Heath—especially more details about his actual work as a PI because he was so interesting. I went into it expecting the decorating of the $1 building to be a huge part of the plot, and I was secretly hoping for a classic romantic paint fight!


I would’ve loved a bit more of their backstory on the page, specifically more about the wedding where they first met. It felt like they had such a strong connection from the start, and since there were mentions later on about them joking that they met hitchhiking, I think seeing that first meeting would have made those later moments even more special.

Daniella’s family seems so supportive, though it was a bit of a jump for me seeing her call her dad "daddy" while being a mum herself—it made her feel very young at heart! I really felt for her as a single mother, especially the stress of juggling work and childcare. I did wonder why she didn't lean on her family more since they're so close, but I guess she’s just very independent and struggles to ask for help, which is something a lot of people can relate to.
One thing that did make me chuckle was the toddler being named Simon—it’s such a grown-up name for a little one-and-a-half-year-old that it took me a minute to get my head around it! Even so, I really liked Daniella and how hard she works for her son.

The book has all those lovely tropes like "found family" and a really satisfying happy ending. It had a few cliches, but that’s exactly what you want in a cosy romance! I thought I’d guessed the twist with Heath’s client, but there were still some surprises I didn’t see coming. I’m definitely interested in reading the rest of the series to see what happens with her brothers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Stephanie Garcia.
483 reviews4 followers
March 26, 2026
What a cute quick read! Heath is a PI and he’s working a case of a missing woman and that’s where he meet Daniella, Daniella is a single mom, photographer and she’s also restoring a new building. The chemistry between them is so beautiful and I loved how they begin to trust each other and how they work together. This book was beautiful written and definitely a must read. Thank You Brooke and Happily Booked PR for letting me be part of the ARC team.
Profile Image for Jenn Allen.
3,355 reviews48 followers
March 29, 2026
I enjoyed this sweet read from the start. Heath is visiting this cute small town for work and found himself pulled to Daniella. The connection between the two of them is strong and what I love is that they are able to build up a friendship first, growing that bond. They are both lovable, and her little boy adds that extra bit of sweet to the story. I love the bit of mystery in the story, even with the secrets that cause some ups and downs along the way. All in, it's a read that pulled me into their world, connecting with the characters and kept me involved. I'm curious about her brothers and hoping to dig into their stories as well.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Diamanti.
342 reviews9 followers
March 22, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the first book in the series The Old Town Block.
The protagonists of the story are Daniella and Heath, who have the ideal chemistry.
The author manages with exceptional mastery to put the reader inside the story and its entire setting. Literally, I was transported inside, I felt part of it and experienced beautiful emotions.
Her writing is warm, tender, romantic, sweet, enjoyable, moving, emotional and pleasant.
Finally, the book is a breathless read.

Many thanks to the author and Happily Booked PR for the eARC!

This is my honest review!
Profile Image for SubconsciousShelf.
79 reviews12 followers
March 13, 2026
A Heartfelt Small‑Town Romance Full of Healing, Hope, and Second Chances

The Seaside Photographer is the kind of small‑town romance that wraps around you like a warm blanket. Daniella’s journey, returning home pregnant, heartbroken, and determined to rebuild her life is written with so much tenderness and authenticity that it’s impossible not to root for her. Watching her pour her heart into restoring the old building while trying to create stability for her son made her such a relatable, inspiring heroine.

Heath was the perfect balance to her strength. His quiet patience, protective nature, and the way he slowly lets this town (and Daniella’s family) soften him made their connection feel genuine and deeply earned. Their chemistry grows in such a natural, steady way that every shared moment feels meaningful.

The mystery woven through the story adds just the right amount of tension, and the twist near the end hit hard in the best way. What truly makes this book shine is the sense of community, the warmth, the support, and the way Harbor’s Head feels like a place you could step into and instantly belong.

A beautiful story about healing, found family, and choosing love even when it feels risky. I adored every page.

I received a free ebook and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Michelle Shamy.
720 reviews8 followers
March 20, 2026
This was such wonderful story about Daniella and Heath. I loved that she went to this small town to start over and was able to acquire a nice little place for $1 through their program. This gave her the opportunity to start over again. But she soon realized she wasn’t going to make the deadline on time with all the with it needed. Enter Heath. He was there in the capacity of being a PI on a scene investigation. He offers her help in exchange for a room. I absolutely loved the way these two blossomed together. It was so sweet and so cute. The romance between them was perfectly done. I enjoyed the twists and turns in this and how it could affect the two of them. That bit of suspense was a perfect addition.
Profile Image for Jocelyn Masson.
314 reviews6 followers
March 24, 2026
Just finished the cutest little read! 🥰 I totally fell for the connection between Heath and Daniella – seriously, their banter was everything. Small-town romance is always a win in my book, and this one did not disappoint! 🏡💕 I loved getting lost in their story and the cozy atmosphere. Highly recommend if you're looking for a sweet escape! ✨
6 reviews
March 24, 2026
This is a good book with well developed, believable characters. The plot is good with humor and flirting, and an unexpected turn. Definitely worth reading, you won’t be disappointed.

I received an arc copy of this book.
Profile Image for Megan.
9 reviews
March 20, 2026
There was something really easy to fall into with The Seaside Photographer—I think a lot of that comes down to how well the characters were written and how natural their relationships felt.

The dynamic between them didn’t feel rushed or overly dramatic, which I appreciated. It built in a way that felt genuine, and that made the emotional moments hit more.

Also, Heath completely stole the show for me. He was hands down my favorite part of the book, and I was always most interested when he was on the page.

Overall, this is a really solid, character-focused romance with a cozy seaside backdrop and a strong focus on connection and growth
Profile Image for T.Albada.
102 reviews2 followers
March 23, 2026
It's a great book.
About a small town and a little mysterie in the head characters live.
I f you don't believe in love at first sight,here's your prove
Everyone who loves romance must read this book

I got a copy to review from the author
Profile Image for Melody Ludholtz .
321 reviews
March 19, 2026
An amazing romance!

This was such a great story! Daniella and Heath were definitely a well matched couple. Daniella being an amazing photographer in her town and Heath, a PI in the area looking for someone. He ends up working at a company doing security to help his search for this woman called Dearest. The scary thing is things start falling into place and the facts reveal themselves. Daniella never sees it coming. Her son also plays a great roll in her story. I cannot wait to read more by this author!
Profile Image for Christy Acc.
84 reviews3 followers
March 19, 2026
This was an enjoyable, quick read. It was refreshing not to have a blatant third act breakup - more like a slight pause, lol. There were some funny aspects but was a cute book that shows how family shows up and sticks together. You can expect a little twist and minimal spice. Thank you for the ARC opportunity.
221 reviews3 followers
March 19, 2026
I love a good romance book and this one did not disappoint. With each page I read it sucked me in more and more i loved reading how the main characters story unfolded
Profile Image for Emily.
249 reviews5 followers
March 13, 2026
This book was really sweet. Heath and Daniella might have met by accident but it was meant to be.

I loved Daniella and of course Simon. Daniella was just trying to get her life together and raise Simon when she met Heath at a wedding he accidentally crashed. She grew so much in this book. She was struggling and was able to find stability.

Heath in town for business never expected to find something else besides the answer to his assignment. I loved seeing his interactions with her family but especially Simon. That kid had his attention from the moment he met him before he found out Simon was her son.

The plot twist towards the end I wasn’t expecting.

Overall I really liked this book. I read this book as an arc.
Profile Image for Nancy Atwell.
50 reviews
March 16, 2026
The Seaside Photographer

What a great story. Heath was hired go to Harbor's Head to find a woman with only a photograph and a partial name. He met Daniella and her son, Simon, and developed a loving relationship with them and her family. When it became known who the woman was, Heath had to tell Daniella. Would what he discovered break up their relationship.
Profile Image for Lindsey Adams.
1,355 reviews25 followers
March 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️

This book surprised me in the best way! I have come to love Brooke Burton as an author and was excited to read her newest release, The Seaside Photographer. What I wasn’t ready for was the emotional depth this story would provide and the inability to put this story down. From the very first page, this book promises romance, struggles, and overcoming hard circumstances. The first in her Harbor's Head: The Old Town Block series, I am excited to see what other stories will come from this series.

Daniella from the very beginning is the FMC that I want to reach through and hug. Her determination and resiliency is inspiring throughout this story. She is returning home heartbroken and pregnant, but is going to build a life that provides for her and her unborn son. While she isn’t afraid to take on challenges, she soon realizes she is going to need help. Thankfully she finds that support in neighbor Heath. Daniella is someone I would like to think would be an actual friend in real life. I loved reading about her and watching her create a life for her and her son.

Heath is in town trying to find a missing person, yet no one knows what he is there for. Keeping his profession as a Private Investigator quiet, he needs to find a way to stay under the radar. Helping Daniella seems like the perfect cover. He slowly begins to fall for this woman though and isn’t sure how he is going to say goodbye. He fits into Daniella’s world with ease and provides a quiet strength that she didn’t even realize she needed.

As the day to day activities bring these two closer and closer, Heath’s real reason for being in town is always looming, threatening to turn everything upside down. When his secret is finally revealed, he is determined to find a way to continue being there for Daniella. That is, if she still wants him around. Brooke has written a beautiful, emotional story that captivated me from start to finish. While not a second chance romance per se, it is definitely second chances for our MCs in regards to their lives, both apart and together. This book was an absolute joy to read!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
📷Photographer FMC
🔎Hidden Secrets
📷Not His Baby
🔎He Falls First
📷PI MMC
🔎Coming Home
📷Small Town Romance
🔎Found Family
📷Private Investigator MMC
🔎Closed Door Romance
Profile Image for Bella.
385 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Seaside Photographer by Brooke Burton is one of those heartfelt small town romances that completely pulls you in and refuses to let go. From the very first chapter I was swept away by the charming coastal setting, the emotional depth of the characters, and the quiet kind of love story that builds in the most beautiful way.

Daniella Martin is a character that is impossible not to root for. She returns to Harbor’s Head trying to rebuild her life while pregnant and carrying a broken heart, determined to create something stable for herself and her son. Watching her take a chance on an old building and pour everything she has into starting over felt incredibly real and inspiring. Her strength, vulnerability, and determination make her such a relatable and lovable heroine.

Heath Malone was the perfect counterpart to Daniella. A private investigator with secrets of his own, he arrives in town focused on solving a missing persons case. What he does not expect is the way this small seaside town and one determined photographer begin to change him. Heath is protective, thoughtful, and quietly swoon worthy, and the way he steps in to help Daniella renovate her building makes their relationship feel natural and heartfelt.

The chemistry between Daniella and Heath grows slowly and beautifully as they work together, share quiet moments, and begin to trust each other. The story balances romance, mystery, and emotional growth so well that every chapter keeps you invested in both the case Heath is trying to solve and the relationship that is blooming between them.

What truly makes this book shine is the sense of community and the cozy seaside atmosphere. Harbor’s Head feels like a place you could step right into, full of warmth, support, and people who care about one another.

The Seaside Photographer is a touching story about second chances, healing, and finding love when you least expect it. If you enjoy small town romance with heart, a little mystery, and characters that feel completely real, this book is an absolute must read.
Profile Image for Mandy Britt.
608 reviews14 followers
March 13, 2026
The Seaside Photographer is a compelling introduction to the Harbor’s Head: The Old Town Block Series, successfully blending small-town charm with a high-stakes mystery. The relationship between Daniella and Heath develops with a natural, slow-burn authenticity, anchored by quiet moments of building trust. What truly elevates this story is the immersive seaside atmosphere; the community feels like a living, breathing place filled with warmth and genuine support.
​Daniella is a resilient protagonist, and her journey toward finding stability for herself and her son, Simon, is deeply moving. Heath, a private investigator who accidentally crashes a wedding, finds much more than the answers he was seeking for his assignment. His bond with Simon is particularly heartwarming, as the child captures his attention well before the connection to Daniella is revealed.
​While the story is primarily a sweet romance, the underlying investigation adds a layer of tension that keeps the reader invested. The revelation of Heath’s true purpose and the subsequent impact on their relationship creates a powerful emotional climax, topped off by an unexpected plot twist. This is a touching story about second chances, healing, and the beauty of finding love when you least expect it.
Profile Image for Cindy Caron.
1,404 reviews5 followers
March 19, 2026
What a beautiful read! From the very beginning, and right up to the end, this story will not only warm your heart, but renew your faith in love at first sight and the strength of the love of family.
The author has truly encaptured what love is, be it from a significant other, or family, in this story. When Daniella and Heath first met, they were drawn together immediately, only the significance of their meeting would not truly be made known until much further into their story. I loved the way Ms. Burton has instilled just the right amount of intrigue as well, and was certainly not expecting the outcome of Heath's efforts with the job he was given. And let's not forget Simon. The heartthrob of the story! He will sweep you off your feet during your first encounter with him, just as he did to Heath.
beautifully written and well timed! Definitely worth the read!
I was gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
71 reviews2 followers
March 31, 2026
This book is small town romance, love at first sight and feeling of belonging. Heath comes to this small town as a PI in search of a woman who once lived there where he accidentally ran into Daniella. From the moment they met a sense of belonging settles over the two of them. This novel explores a romance that begins as accidental meeting and grows as they continue to spend time and work together. As always there is a twist that you don’t see coming but thankfully although it causes a rough spot does not change the characters you have grown to love in a negative light. I did truly enjoy this book and it settles straight into a no spice romance book (only talk about sex in an after type manner or as like a list work, shower, watch tv and then lay together/make love before bed). So if you are looking for a sweet relatively short under 300 pages novel to sink your teeth into Daniella and Heath are a fun read.
2,032 reviews38 followers
March 14, 2026
- Small town romance
- Single mother
- Slow burn
- He falls first

I found myself so drawn into this story! It had such a great premise that kept me interested in the story.

Private Investigator Heath was only supposed to be in town for a few days to find a person from his client's past. Little did he know that the little seaside town would change his life.

Single mother photographer Daniella is doing her best to raise her son and is successful due to the support she gets from her family. They are very close. She and Heath meet at a wedding and Heath can't stop thinking about her. Even though he is only meant to be in town for a few weeks, he isn't ready to go.

This is such a cute story and the parallel subplot was intriguing. Can't wait to read more stories from this town and family!
Profile Image for Vilma .
943 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2026
Heath and Daniela have an interesting road to romance, starting with a meet cute at a wedding they both crash and have instant chemistry. But forget to exchange numbers when her police officer brother interrupts their good night embrace.

But when they meet again shortly after they have cute lunches and enjoy each others company.

There’s a mystery to be solved that Heath can’t share with Danielle, but when it comes out, he wishes he had.

The beginning dragged a bit to me, but it was interesting enough to keep me engaged; and I’m glad because there was definitely a good storyline surrounding Heaths presence in town.
Profile Image for Jordan Fiest.
2,437 reviews37 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 10, 2026
The Seaside Photographer is book one of the Harbor's Head: The Old Town Block Series.

Daniella and Heath have an instant connection and we spend a lot of the story seeing their relationship develop. However, Heath is in town as a private investigation trying to find someone. Neither understand the impact this investigation will have on their relationship until everything comes to light. This was a very sweet story and I loved seeing how loving and caring the family was with each other. It was a great read for a nice peaceful story, seeing two people meet and fall in love.
605 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
This was such a great story about real family; the kind that shows up for you, the kind that loves you unconditionally, and the kind that is unbreakable. I loved her dad and brothers as well as Heath’s part in helping Daniella heal from her past. And I absolutely adored Simon. Heath accidently crashing a wedding was a great start to this book and I love that he was so patient, understanding, and honest. Since he was only in town on assignment, there was always that thing hanging over their heads about when he would leave and how sad it would be for everyone- because even the family loved Heath. And the family was exactly what Heath needed in his life since he never had one.
The plot twist was well done, and heart wrenching, but it had to happen. I’m just glad it ended the way it did.
The parts of the book I loved most were Heath getting to see how it felt to be part of family and his growing love for Simon and Daniella.
177 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 10, 2026
Just enough drama.
Closed door romance. I really liked the communication between various characters. Realistic responses to the plot twists. It was not one of those annoying books where you are constantly thinking, “Just talk to each other!“ For a more detailed account of their meet-cute, read The Seaside Wedding first (recommended but not necessary).
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
2,068 reviews
March 16, 2026
Daniella had returned to Harbor's Head to build a new life for herself and her son after the old life fell apart. She's trying to get her business going, be a mom and renovate the old building they are living in. She finds help from PI Heath who arrived in town to find a missing person. This was a healing second chance at love with a mystery thrown in story. Very good! Received a free copy from the author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews