The Broken Hearts Beach Club

by Jenny Hale, Kelli Tager (Narrator)

8 hours, 26 minutes

From the USA Today bestselling author of The Summer House , with over one million copies of her books sold, comes a touching beach listen, perfect for fans of Sheila Roberts, Jill Shalvis, and Debbie Macomber.

After heartbreak hits in three very different ways, Emily Jacobs and her friends Sienna and Blair take up Sienna’s offer to escape to her client’s luxurious beach house for sun, sand, and girl talk. But paradise comes with a twist: in his absence, the owner of the house forgot to reschedule his staff, leaving his brooding and impossibly tight-lipped personal chef, Patrick Owens, in charge of dinner for them. Every. Single. Night.

Emily can’t help but be intrigued by the chef with his guarded eyes and irresistible culinary skills. Certainly, they should know something about the person serving them food every night. As she tries to break through his tough exterior, his limited small talk creates deeper questions, just as a massive storm blows in, threatening their peaceful getaway.

Between laughter, late-night conversations, and undeniable chemistry, Emily realizes life’s storms reveal more than the weather’s.

An uplifting and dreamy audiobook about friendship, fresh starts, and the kind of love that sneaks up when you least expect it. If you enjoyed the TV movies based on Jenny’s books and are looking for more feel-good romance, look no further!

Genres: Audiobook, Contemporary, Friendship, Romance

Audiobook

Published May 12, 2026

About the author

Jenny is an established illustrator and author of children’s picture books, with 20 titles and a million copies in print. Before publishing, she spent 18 years as an advertising illustrator and copywriter. She lives with her husband and writes from a long marble table overlooking Sydney’s bushland.

Reviews

[exploraDora · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Broken Hearts Beach Club follows three friends during a transformative summer trip. Each of them is dealing with personal struggles and heartbreak in different ways, but through friendship, support, and new beginnings, they slowly start rebuilding their lives.

This was a lovely summer read centered around friendship and healing. I really enjoyed following all three women and their individual journeys, while also seeing how much strength they found in supporting one another.

The story touches on breakups, loss, fresh starts, and new love, but overall it still feels warm and hopeful. Everything wrapped up nicely in the end, making this an easy, comforting, and enjoyable read overall.

Special thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, if you’re like me, you’re gonna go into this one thinking it’s a kind of beach-y, friendship-y kind of read…where they’ll spend some time catching up, and, having fun!
You. Would. Be. Totally. Wrong!

This is a… we’ve been friends forever, and now, well…we’ve all hit rock-bottom for one reason or another… and in order to survive, we must make a plan!

And so, the Broken Hearts Beach Club is born…

Three friends, who’ve all taken very different paths in life, but who are THERE FOR EACH OTHER…. ALWAYS… find themselves falling apart.

One of them is a well known real estate agent for the elite…
One is a school teacher…
One is a social influencer…

The real estate agent realizes that one of her clients is away for the summer… last minute change… and their home in Florida (or should I say MANSION?) is open, and maybe available?? She reaches out to him and he says… it’s all yours. Use it for as long as you’d like. 😮😳

So they head from Tennessee to Florida…
The home is AMAZING!!
And… right on the water!

As they are settling in, someone arrives with food…
And he kind of looks familiar?!?

He’s a celebrity chef! And the owners hired him for the summer! So he’s shocked when he finds the women there instead!

They talk him into staying… (after checking with the owner, of course…) and he prepares a five star meal!
But, he doesn’t talk. At. All.

Emily, the teacher, tries her best to get him to open up. But, he’s a rock.
But… the more time he spends with them, the more she’s determined to break down his walls!
And, when he overhears them talking about her very recent, very difficult split with her fiancé, well… he softens, just a bit.

Next thing you know there’s a HUGE storm heading their way. And they are ON THE WATER! He stops by to check on the house and is surprised to find them all still there!

And then, things completely change… as they are thrown into the unknown with the storm and all that happens.

This was such a beautiful story. One that I can so well relate to as I have several Ride-Or-Die-Friends myself… and this one hits home, and very close to the heart! Sometimes what you really need is just a hug, or an ear to listen. although that won’t FIX things, it surely helps… and the love you feel throughout this one… well, you can certainly identify with it! And their problems are not just small, little, insignificant things… they are heart-heavy, fall to your knees, pray to God problems that I certainly understand. And you can FEEL the pain and heartbreak in each of them.

And that my friends, is what it’s all about. When you read something that hits you so hard right where you FEEL… well, that’s just… everything!

All the stars for me for this beautiful book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨✨✨✨🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟💫💫💫💫💫

#TheBrokenHeartsBeachClub by @JennyHale and narrated phenomenally by @KelliTager! ( I didn’t realize it was just one narrator! She’s that good! )

*** This one has not been released yet, but please keep your eyes 👀 open for it on 5/12/26! ***

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @DreamScapeAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!

And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[Marian Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

An uplifting story about the bonds of friendship between three best friends who suffer heartbreak in three very different ways. This book is one of strong friendships, fresh starts, and finding your way through the storm of heartbreak with help from your friends.

After enduring heartbreak, three friends decide to escape to the beach for the summer, forming the Broken Hearts Beach Club. Hoping for some sun, sand, and girl talk the women’s time in paradise is interrupted by an unexpected broody chef and a massive incoming storm threatening their peaceful getaway. But Emily can’t help but be intrigued by the chef with his guarded eyes and irresistible culinary skills. His limited small talk creates deeper questions as she tries to break through his tough exterior. For each of the women, the Broken Hearts Beach Club is more than where stories are told and secrets shared, it’s a lifeline.

Jenny Hale delivers an uplifting tale with plenty of emotional moments and celebrates those friendships we hold dear that helps us weather the storms of life. A must read for your summer TBR!

Thank you Netgalley, Harpeth Road Press and Jenny Hale for the advanced readers copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kim McFall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It’s cozy & heartwarming, following a trio of close friends on a getaway that feels like the perfect cozy escape after each experiences a heartbreaking event.

At its core, this story beautifully explores friendship, healing after heartbreak, and the possibility of unexpected new love. It’s uplifting, cozy, and unputdownable.

I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline. The narration brought everything to life so well.

Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to this advanced reader copy!

[Beckie Keenan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. I have two best friends and we do a girls trip every year to connect and support each other by phone and text throughout the year as we don’t live near each other. This book reminded me of the importance of those relationships and those trips - I think I’ll buy this for them when it comes out, and one for myself. The story had me in my feels, had me smiling, and even guessing at points. I haven’t read anything by this author before so am now going to review other works as I really enjoy the writing style. Very good book.

Book obtained through NetGalley for an early read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mamawattto4 Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC

I gave The Broken Hearts Beach Club by Jenny Hale 3 stars. Overall, it was a sweet and easy summer listen that leans into themes of healing and rediscovering yourself after heartbreak.

The narrator did a really great job bringing the characters to life, which made the audiobook especially enjoyable. Her performance added emotion and personality that kept me engaged throughout.

I really liked Emily as a main character her journey felt relatable, and I appreciated watching her grow as she worked through everything life had thrown at her. The beachy setting and focus on starting over gave it that comforting, summery vibe.

While it didn’t completely wow me, it was still a cute, feel-good story that’s perfect if you’re in the mood for something light with a bit of heart.

[Lana · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

The Broken Hearts Beach Club is a fun, summery beach read that’s easy to get lost in. The story shines through its warm coastal setting and a cast of characters who feel real and relatable, making it easy to connect with their journeys. At its heart, the novel is a feel good celebration of friendship, healing, and second chances, perfect for anyone looking for an uplifting escape by the water.

[Tabitha Hale · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

Thank you Jenny and NetGalley for this eARC!

Welcome to the Broken Hearts Beach Club…where three friends find a way to surpass struggles together and bond over their hardships. We meet Emily, Sienna, and Blair for this healing journey each with their own pains they won’t have to face alone.

This was such a quick perfect beach read! I loved it so much. The bonds between these girls and their unwavering love for each other was so touching. The healing in this was heartwarming and I think so many women could relate to this! With a HEA, everyone finds their path and the healing they need a long the way. I couldn’t recommend it enough! Not to mention some tension between two certain love interests…💛

Definitely making me wish for a beach trip soon!

[Julie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story of three friends each with their own heart breaking stories. Emily , Blair and Sienna jump at the opportunity to stay in a beautiful mansion in a perfect beach location. Here they hope to heal and come out the other side with a fresh new look on life.
The bond between them is strong, just how good friendship should be and only gets stronger through the holiday. My thanks to Net Galley and publisher for this delightful advanced copy.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny Hale’s The Broken Hearts Beach Club emotionally dragged me into the ocean, handed me a glass of wine, surrounded me with emotionally exhausted women trying to survive heartbreak, and then casually introduced a broody private chef who apparently believes feelings should only be communicated through gourmet dinners and intense eye contact. Honestly? This book felt like therapy disguised as a beach read. Published by Dreamscape Media, thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted audiobook ARC because this story completely surprised me in the best possible way.

Going into this, I expected a lighter romance with beach vibes and maybe a little emotional drama sprinkled in between sunsets and cocktails. What I got instead was a surprisingly emotional women’s fiction story centered around grief, healing, female friendship, identity, second chances, and figuring out who you are after life completely knocks the wind out of you.

Emily, Blair, and Sienna are each carrying their own heartbreak into this beach getaway, but what made this story work so well for me is that none of their pain felt manufactured for drama. One woman is dealing with betrayal and the collapse of the future she thought she was building. One is carrying devastating grief after loss that permanently altered her marriage and sense of self. One is quietly panicking over a life change she isn’t emotionally prepared for. These weren’t “cute little problems” wrapped in beach towels and romance tropes. These were real, messy, heavy emotional situations that felt grounded and believable.

And somehow Jenny Hale balances all of that emotional weight with warmth, comfort, humor, and hope.

The friendship between these women absolutely carried this story for me. It felt authentic in a way that reminded me how rare it is to see female friendships written without unnecessary competition or manufactured conflict. These women show up for each other. They listen, support, call each other out when necessary, and hold space for each other’s grief without trying to “fix” it immediately. It honestly felt less like reading fictional characters and more like eavesdropping on real conversations between lifelong friends trying to survive adulthood together.

The beach house setting was basically its own character. The late-night talks, ocean air, storms rolling in, emotional unloading over wine and comfort food… it all created this cozy but emotionally charged atmosphere that made the story incredibly immersive. I could practically hear waves crashing in the background while everyone unpacked years of heartbreak and emotional baggage.

And then there’s Patrick Owens.

This man is emotionally reserved, painfully observant, quietly protective, and somehow manages to make preparing dinner feel more intimate than half the romance books I’ve read lately. The slow-burn connection between him and Emily worked for me because it never overshadowed the larger emotional story. Their relationship develops gently through trust, comfort, and vulnerability instead of instant fireworks, which honestly fit the tone of this book perfectly.

“You can’t heal in the same storm that broke you.”

That line absolutely lodged itself into my brain while listening because it captures the entire emotional heartbeat of this story. The women in this book aren’t magically fixed by the beach, romance, or friendship. But they begin to breathe again there. And sometimes that’s the first step.

The audiobook narration by added so much warmth to the experience for me. Her voice has this calm, soothing quality that genuinely made the emotional scenes land harder. She handled the grief-heavy moments carefully without making them feel melodramatic, and I especially loved the way she differentiated the emotional tones between the three women. Emily’s uncertainty, Blair’s heartbreak, and Sienna’s quiet fear all felt distinct. Listening to this honestly felt like sitting on a covered beach porch during a storm while friends shared the pieces of themselves they usually keep hidden.

I also loved that the audiobook pacing matched the emotional rhythm of the story. It never rushed the heavier moments, but it also didn’t let the sadness drown the hopeful parts either. It balanced beautifully.

This isn’t a spicy romance or a super plot-heavy drama. It’s softer than that. More reflective. More emotional. It’s the kind of book you read when you need reassurance that heartbreak doesn’t have to permanently define your life. That healing can happen slowly. Quietly. Imperfectly. Sometimes through friendship more than romance.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

If you love women’s fiction with strong female friendships, emotional healing journeys, beach house settings, comforting summer atmosphere, slow-burn romance, grief and recovery themes, and stories that feel like emotional exhaling after a hard season of life, this one absolutely belongs in your beach bag this summer.

And honestly… would you join a Broken Hearts Beach Club if it came with ocean views, emotional support besties, wine, and a suspiciously attractive chef making pasta every night? Because I absolutely would.

#TheBrokenHeartsBeachClub #JennyHale #DreamscapeMedia #NetGalley #AudiobookReview #WomensFiction #BeachReads #SummerReads #Bookstagram #BooksCoffeeBrews #FriendshipFiction #HealingJourney #SlowBurnRomance #BeachHouseBooks #FeelGoodFiction #EmotionalReads #ALCReview #KelliTager #CozyReads #ContemporaryFiction #SummerBookRecommendations #WomenSupportingWomen #BookReview #AudiobookLo

[Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book looked me dead in the eyes and said, what if your worst life moment happened all at once… but you processed it in a beach mansion with unlimited carbs and a man who cooks like he’s trying to fix your childhood? And I said, I’m listening.

The Broken Hearts Beach Club is basically three women hitting absolute emotional rock bottom at the same time and deciding, you know what would help? A spontaneous coastal reset and a soft-launch of their shared breakdown as a branded experience. The Broken Hearts Beach Club is born, and honestly, I would join immediately. No questions asked. I’ll bring wine and unresolved issues.

Emily is coming in hot with a canceled wedding and a cheating ex who deserves to be launched directly into the ocean. Blair is carrying grief that is so heavy it just sits in your chest while you’re listening. And Sienna is holding onto a life bomb that she’s not quite ready to drop yet. These are not cute, quirky problems. These are “stare at the ceiling at 2 a.m.” problems. And yet the book somehow balances that weight with this warmth that feels like being wrapped in a beach towel and aggressively supported by your friends.

And the friendship? Oh, it’s that ride-or-die, call-you-out-but-also-hold-you-while-you-cry energy. They’re not perfect. They deflect, they avoid, they joke when things get too real, but they show up. It’s the kind of dynamic that makes you want to text your best friend something unhinged like, “If I ever try to get back with a terrible man, I need you to legally intervene.”

Now. Patrick Owens. This man is out here being emotionally unavailable but culinarily generous, which is a dangerous combination. He’s broody. He’s quiet. He communicates like a Victorian ghost but then serves five-star meals every night like that’s not the most intimate thing you can do for someone. You cannot heal properly when a man is plating your dinner like he respects you. It’s destabilizing.

Emily tries to play it cool, tries to focus on herself, and then immediately gets pulled into this soft, slow-burn connection that feels less like fireworks and more like… oh no, I accidentally trust you. Their dynamic has this awkward, hesitant rhythm at first, which actually works because both of them are carrying their own baggage like overpacked emotional suitcases. But once it clicks, it’s very “we didn’t mean for this to happen but now we’re in it.”

Also, there is a storm. A literal storm. Because subtlety packed its bags and left early. And honestly? It eats. The emotional chaos finally gets a matching backdrop, and suddenly everything feels heightened in that dramatic, slightly cinematic way where you’re like, yes, process your trauma while the sky is falling, that feels correct.

Let’s talk audiobook, because Kelli Tager is doing some heavy lifting here in the best way. Her voice has this calm, steady warmth that makes you feel like you’re sitting right there with them, eavesdropping on late-night conversations you were not invited to but are absolutely invested in. She handles the emotional scenes with a lot of care, especially Blair’s grief, which could have easily tipped into overwhelming but instead feels grounded and real.

There are moments early on where distinguishing between the three voices takes a second to settle into, but once you’re in, you’re in. It becomes less about “who is speaking” and more about “why am I suddenly crying in my car over fictional women making life choices.”

What surprised me most is that this is not actually a romance wearing a beach hat. The romance is there, it’s sweet, it matters, but the real story is about these women figuring out how to exist after life completely derails them. It’s about friendship as a lifeline, not a side plot. And I love that it doesn’t pretend healing is clean. It’s messy. Sometimes it’s rushed. Sometimes it’s like, we’ll deal with that later, pass the wine. Which, honestly, same.

Do some things wrap up a little too neatly? Yes. Does emotional trauma occasionally get the “we’re on vacation, let’s circle back” treatment? Also yes. But the core of it, that feeling of being held up by people who love you when you’re barely holding yourself together, that lands.

By the end, I was fully attached, mildly dehydrated from feelings, and weirdly convinced that all major life decisions should be made near the ocean with a supportive friend group and a suspiciously attractive chef.

Four stars. This is the kind of audiobook you put on thinking it’ll be light and then suddenly you’re reevaluating your entire emotional support system while someone fictional grills fish.

Whodunity Award: For Convincing Me That Emotional Recovery Requires At Least One Broody Chef and a Weather Event

And thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ALC, I will be thinking about this beach house and these women for an embarrassing amount of time.

[Karen Brooks - TheTxLitChic · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Broken Hearts Beach Club
~Jenny Hale

If you're searching for your perfect summer novel – something with emotional depth, a strong thread of friendship, and the easy warmth of ocean breezes – The Broken Hearts Beach Club by Jenny Hale… is.that.book. It's a beautifully balanced, sand-between-your-toes story that blends lifelong friendships, second chances, forgiveness, and a reminder that the things which break us often reshape us in all the right ways.

When three best friends from college – Emily, Sienna, and Blair – find themselves unraveling with their own unique forms of heartbreak, they need each other more than ever. When a sign arrives in the form of free use of a lavish beach house for the summer, the women know this is their time. The Broken Hearts Beach Club is formed. A 10-hour road trip delivers them to paradise – sea breezes, blue skies, multiple shades of blue ocean waters and a beach house… no, a mansion, that they have to themselves.

But an unexpected knock on the door changes the dynamic in the house. Sienna's client, the owner of the house, forgot to cancel their personal chef. Reluctantly, the broody local celebrity chef Patrick Owens agrees to cook for the women since he's already been paid.

Beneath the quiet exterior, guarded stance, and gorgeous eyes lies a man marked by traum, yet loyalty. When a tropical storm turns into the Gulf Coast, Patrick doesn't hesitate to rescue the women and provide shelter for them at his sister, Julia's house. Between tropical winds, the innocence of a child, and emotional bonding, complications arrive the next day as the skies calm.

Hale excels at character development. Every person, main or supporting, feels genuine and fully drawn. Emily anchors our story. She's empathetic, curious, yet quietly courageous as she finds herself. Sienna personifies control when meeting the unknown, struggling to accept what life chose for her. Blair embodies grief and recovery with poignancy and grace, her journey provides an emotional center for the story. And Patrick, written subtlety, is a man with few words but rich in depth. His every act reveals kindness without drama. Even side characters like Julia and Winston breathe life into the story with humor and heart. While their situations may vary, each character is real, vulnerable, and able to bond over the aspect of shared trauma.

Sea glass. That is the first thing that comes to mind when trying to find a sea themed comparison considering Hale's prose. It's smooth, warm, gentle, and full of small moments that glimmer. Hale balances each woman's story, allowing them to breathe before prompting resolution. Each chapter unfolds like a breath of fresh air after moments of turmoil engaging readers in moments of humor and romantic tension – all anchored by a consistent message of resilience and hope. Add in the hiss of ocean spray, thunder overhead, and glow of candlelight during the storm, the pages just naturally push forward.

Despite grief and uncertainty, The Broken Hearts Beach Club is exactly what its title promises. A gentle balm for aching souls with moments that spark laughter and tears. Hale delivers a story of friendship that feels as genuine as the sea air on your skin and a romance that pulls you under like the ocean waves during a strong surf.
If you are looking for a summer read that brings the sunshine after the storm then The Broken Hearts Beach Club by Jenny Hale should be added to your TBR for release on May 11, 2026.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Jenny Hale for the opportunity to Alpha/Beta/ARC for The Broken Hearts Beach Club. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author or publisher for a fair and honest review.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trigger warning - this book will make you ravenously hungry. It will also make you yearn for fresh seafood and cause you to have the urge to bury your toes in the sand.

I love, love a good beach read, and this one is perfect. Although I was not at the beach when I read it, the author does a fabulous job of transporting you to the beach through her words. I could almost hear the pounding surf.

Three best friends are at different stages in their lives, but all have one thing in common and that is a little heartbreak. Some of the heartbreak is a little more serious for some than others, but heartbreak is personal to the person that is going through the situation. This story shows how important good friendships are to the psyche of an individual, and also how uplifting a little girl time can be. These three ladies decide there is no better place for them to bond and maybe heal a little than a luxurious beachside mansion.

Once they arrive, they are surprised when a professional chef shows up to fix their evening meal. The homeowner forgot to cancel the plans, but this is good for Emily, Sienna and Blair. They talk the broody, moody chef, Patrick Owens, into cooking for them all week.

Emily is more than a little intrigued by this mysterious man. I loved how she forced this mute man to talk to her. He has a story to tell, but it will be like pulling teeth to get it out of him.

This heartwarming story filled my heart to the brim with the sisterhood bonding. I also enjoyed learning more about Patrick. He was an exercise in proving that you should never judge a book by its cover because there is lot packed in the inside that you cannot see on the cover.

I oohed so many times with the descriptions of the scrumptious food, the delectable ice cream choices at a local ice cream parlor and the glorious descriptions of the beautiful home they were visiting. This author has a particular talent for writing women's fiction that all women can relate to in a very personal way.

This is a perfect summer read, whether you are at the beach or enjoying a nice cool drink during the heat of the long summer days. This was a warm delight wrapped in the pages of a book. I could read this one again and enjoy it just as much the second time around.

Thank you to Harpeth Road Press and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tamisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.25 stars

While she couldn't run from her problems forever, she could give herself a break and have some quality time with her best friends. They'd stood by her for everything since college and they'd stand by her now.

The Broken Hearts Beach Club was a truly heartwarming read and an ode to sisterhood and friendship. There is something about the love and sisterhood that Emily, Blair, and Sienna share that is beautiful and I loved reading about their friendship and how they supported each other in the good times and the bad times. You could tell that these three ladies genuinely cared for each other and I loved seeing that representation of female friendships. I would read more books with and about the three of them. Even though Emily is clearly the main character, Blair and Sienna didn't feel flat. We get important parts of their story and struggles, and I was happy with their respective resolutions. The writing style is quite descriptive (especially with the food/dishes) and while I liked it, it did feel a little over the top at times especially when describing outfits or some other minor details that shouldn't have been emphasized on.

Unfortunately, I didn't really enjoy the romantic subplot between Emily and Patrick. It felt a little rushed. While I am generally not a fan of the insta love trope, I decided to give it a shot with this story. But from the moment they met, I thought their interactions were a little awkward, from his being rude and standoffish, to her pushing him to talk, to them having stilted conversations. Though we see some growth on both their parts and in their relationship towards the end of the book, it wasn't enough to keep me hooked. Also thought the ending was semi-unrealistic but I am proud of Emily for overcoming her fears and beginning to think of life through her lens. I would have much rather preferred not to have a romantic subplot and have the book focus solely on the girls healing and loving on each other.

Overall, the sisterhood and friendship shines in this book, as well as the character growth, and I would recommend this to readers looking for a fun, beach read with three ladies who learn about the beauty and power of friendship and supporting each other, as well as new starts. Thank you to NetGalley, BooksGoSocial, and the author for a complimentary ARC of this book!

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Broken Hearts Beach Club
Author: Jenny Hale
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Kelli Tager
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Pub Date: May 12, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pages: 277

Emily, Sienna, and Blair have been best friends since college. However, now as adults married or about to be, they are each having a form of heartbreak, and find they need each other more than ever.
Emily is a teacher and has been planning her wedding only to find out her husband-to-be is cheating.
Sienna is a relator with wealthy clients. She found out she is expecting and hasn’t told her husband as she fears neither she nor her husband want to be parents.
Blair is a popular Influencer who had shared the news of having a baby on Social Media but now broken hearted as she lost the baby.

The three know they need each other. So, when Sienna receives a gift in the form of use of a beautiful beach house for the summer, they jump at the chance and form the ‘The Broken Hearts Beach Club’.
The trip to Florida takes ten hours but it was worth any discomfort- – sea breezes, blue skies, multiple shades of blue ocean waters and an amazing beach house!
Much to their delight the owner of the house, didn’t cancel their personal chef so now they have local celebrity chef Patrick Owens cooking for them

They no sooner start their fabulous vacation when a tropical storm threatens the Gulf Coast, an evacuation alert goes out.
Patrick doesn't hesitate to rescue the three women and provide shelter for them at his sister, Julia's house.
Who knew that the dangers of tropical storm would bring an emotional bond?

This story was much better than what I expected – I loved it!!!
The story was full of hope, friendship, and new beginnings and finding happiness they lost.
The beach atmosphere truly made this audiobook a great escape for me. Narrator Kelli Tager was great with performing all the characters.
BTW: Who do you suppose is the famous musician?

I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this great audiobook.
Publishing Release Date is scheduled for May 12, 2026.

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Broken Hearts Beach Club by Jenny Hale (2026)
8h 29m narrated by Kelli Tager, 277 pages
ALC courtesy of Dreamscape Media

Genre: Women's Fiction

Rating as a movie: PG-13

Featuring: Girlfriends Trio, Inglewood, Nashville, Tennessee; Elementary Teacher, Social Media Influencer, Real Estate Agent, Broken Engagement, Loss of Pregnancy, Unexpected Pregnancy, Girls Trip, Gulf Coast, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; Grief, Chef, Reflection, Self-Actualization

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️👢🏖🍹🍸👩‍🏫👨🏽‍🍳🤰🏼🌀

My thoughts: 📱56% 3h 42m left [Chapter] 17 - This book is a perfect blend of friends through thick to thin. I definitely would have finished it in a single session if I didn't have such an eventful day.

I have been experiencing a rather chaotic week, and this book provided the perfect escape. The story revolves around three close friends, though one is clearly the main character, more intricately developed than the other two, and serves as the primary focus. This trio is dealing with various forms of grief, stemming from the loss of a child, a relationship, and even a particular lifestyle. While all these subjects are serious and treated with appropriate weight, the story maintains a very light-hearted tone, with a significant portion dedicated to enjoyable vacation experiences. I particularly appreciated the balance between their journey of overcoming grief and their appreciation of their surroundings. I did not hit the 5-star zone, as I reserved that for books that blow my mind or transform me, but overall, it was a wonderful story.

Recommend to others: Absolutely, if you’re looking for a story about friendships and you don't want romance to be the main theme, you should consider jumping into this one.

Songs for the soundtrack: "Waves" by Luke Bryan, "On the Coast of Somewhere Beautiful" by Kenny Chesney, "Everywhere" by Tim McGraw, "Sunshine & Summertime" by Faith Hill, "You And The Beach" by Luke Bryan

Books and Authors mentioned: Titanic by James Cameron

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Broken Hearts Beach Club was the book I needed when I didn't know I needed it. I absolutely devoured this book!

College friends, Emily, Sienna and Blair, are all facing their own unique challenges that are leading to heartbreak. The three of them realize that their friendship and the support of one another is more important now than it has been in a very long time. They are presented with an opportunity to utilize a lavish beach house for a week and they take it as a sign for them to take a much needed getaway.

They arrive at the mansion that is owned by one of Sienna's real estate clients and what they don't expect is a knock at the door. Turns out the private chef that was hired by her client wasn't told the client would be going out of town and wouldn't be there. Since he already has all of the food, he begrudgingly agrees to cook for them each night. Patrick is a local celebrity chef, so he's well known, but he also is known to be broody and challenging to deal with.

When a tropical storm moves in, Patrick helps the three friends secure the home and then takes them to his sister's house to make sure they are safe when landfall occurs. With all three women facing challenges and uncertainty, they find solace in their friendship and also the new friendships with Patrick, his sister and his nephew as well.

While I was reading this novel, I felt like this was a very true to life story. I could easily see it unfolding and I felt for each of the women and what they were going through. I also identified with how important friendship is as we move through life. Hale did a magnificent job telling this story and it is one I would highly recommend as a summer read.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Ciara Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧 Audio Review: Loved this story and the narration for the audio was really enjoyable to listen to!

📝 Story Review: Loved this one! Highly recommend for those who love reading about female friendships during difficult times and unexpected summer romance during a surprise summer vacation!

Three best friends are each having their own life crisis. One’s fiancé has just broken up with her and cheated on her. One’s just found out she’s pregnant despite loving her single life and being terrified of what this means for her lifestyle and relationship. And one is still grieving the loss of her unborn child and dealing with the strain it puts on her marriage. - Enter the chance to get away for a summer island vacation where they can mend their broken hearts.

This story was so heartwarming despite the serious/sad topics. I was rooting for the characters and curious to see how things would play out for each of them. Loved the slow build feel of the romance even though technically the duration of their stay wasn’t that long. And loved how their friendships were depicted. Friends who have your back, but also don’t try to make decisions for you. - It had a great ending as well!

My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5/5
Spice Level: 🌶️ 0.5/5 (kissing)

Vibes: Friendships, reflection, healing and summer romance.

Tropes 👇

- Summer island vacation
- 3 besties vacationing/healing together
- Summer romance
- Chef MMC/former Navy chef
- Forced proximity (sorta)
- Fancy dinners
- Friendships
- Discovering your own identity

CW’s 👇

- Losing an unborn child/miscarriages
- Pregnancy
- Cheating fiancé
- Tropical Storm
- PTSD

Audio Release Date: May 12, 2026
Audio Run Time: 8 hrs, 14 mins
Narrated By: Kelli Tager
Genre: Women’s Fiction
POV: Third Person; Single

Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC in return for my honest review!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re searching for the ultimate summer read, The Broken Hearts Beach Club by Jenny Hale is that book. With ocean-breeze vibes and real emotional depth, it beautifully blends second chances, healing, and the kind of friendship that feels like home.

College best friends Emily, Sienna, and Blair are each navigating their own version of heartbreak when they’re given the chance to escape to a stunning beach house for a much-needed reset. Taking it as a sign, they form the Broken Hearts Beach Club—what starts as a getaway filled with sun, sand, and late-night heart-to-hearts quickly becomes something much deeper.

At its core, this story is a love letter to sisterhood. The bond between Emily, Sienna, and Blair is genuinely beautiful—steady, supportive, and full of care in both the highs and the heartbreak. Watching them show up for each other, lean on one another, and grow through their pain was one of the most powerful parts of the story.

The audiobook experience adds another layer of warmth thanks to narrator Kelli Tager. She captures each woman’s voice with clarity and emotion, making their individual struggles feel distinct and authentic. Her delivery brings out the tenderness, humor, and vulnerability in the story, pulling you deeper into their journey and making it feel like you’re right there with them on the beach.

Heartwarming, cozy, and full of emotion, this is a story about friendship, fresh starts, and finding your way through life’s storms with the people who matter most. It’s uplifting, tender, and a little bit swoony—like sunshine after the rain, wrapped in salt air, second chances, and unbreakable bonds.

Thank you to Jenny Hale, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this beautiful ALC!

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This was such an emotional and comforting read, and honestly exactly what I needed at the right time.

Going into this, I expected more of a light beach read with friendship and romance, but it ended up having so much more emotional depth than I anticipated. The themes of heartbreak, healing, friendship, and rebuilding yourself after life falls apart were handled really well.

One of my favourite parts of this book was the friendship dynamic between the three women. Their support for one another felt genuine and heartfelt, and it really became the emotional core of the story for me. It wasn’t just about romance — it was about finding people who help hold you together when everything feels like it’s falling apart.

I also really enjoyed the coastal setting and the atmosphere throughout the book. The beach house, the incoming storm, the food, and the emotional tension all worked together to create such an immersive and comforting vibe.

The romance was sweet without overpowering the larger story, and I liked that the emotional growth of the characters remained the main focus throughout the book.

There were a couple of moments that felt a little predictable, which is the only reason this wasn’t a full 5-star read for me, but overall I found this incredibly easy to get invested in emotionally.

Overall, this was a beautiful, heartfelt story about friendship, healing, second chances, and learning how to move forward after heartbreak. Definitely one I’d recommend if you enjoy emotional women’s fiction with strong friendship dynamics and a touch of romance.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Jenny Hale for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re searching for a great beach read for this summer, you do not need to look any further. This is it. I’ve heard of suffering described as having what you don’t want or wanting what you don’t have. In the case of the three women in this book, all were experiencing heartache for one of those two reasons and they decided to have a girls’ trip at an oceanfront mansion on the Florida Panhandle which had been offered to them free of charge. To top it off, they were enjoying free gourmet dining with a personal chef in charge of dinner every evening. Patrick, the handsome personal chef, was trying his hardest to remain impersonal but Emily, one of the ladies, was curious about him and was trying to draw him out. It took a massive storm and forced proximity to finally begin to reveal who Patrick really was. I felt like this group of ladies would have been a fun group to be a part of. I liked the way they cared for one another and encouraged one another toward personal growth. I enjoyed some of the side characters as well, especially Patrick’s sister and her son. I would love to have a new story with her as the main female character. And I would even be up for Emily’s ex getting his own book where he finally grows into a man who puts someone else’s needs and dreams first. His genuine remorse after he realized he had lost Emily for good gave me hope that he could learn and change. This book was entertaining and engaged my attention from the beginning to the end. Highly recommend! I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!

I went into The Broken Hearts Beach Club not totally sure what to expect, and it ended up pulling me in way more than I anticipated. The pacing was spot on, never dragging, never rushed and the narration flowed so naturally it made the whole story feel effortless to fall into.

What really stood out to me, though, was the character development. Nobody felt like filler, every character had their own storyline, their own struggles, and real growth. I loved how their stories intertwined without it ever feeling chaotic or uneven. Everyone had their moment, and it all came together in a way that just worked.

And I have to say, one of my favorite things was how the main character handled the cheating. So often in stories like this, there’s that back-and-forth, the “maybe we can fix it” energy. Not here. She was clear, firm, and completely unapologetic about her boundary: the moment he stepped out was the moment she was done. Even while she was trying to figure out what her life looked like without him and questioning if she was making the right decision, she never wavered. That felt real, and honestly, refreshing.

It’s sweet without being overly cheesy, emotional without being heavy, and genuinely engaging from start to finish. I stayed hooked the entire time.

If this turns into a series, I’d absolutely come back for more.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

3.5 stars rounded up.

The Broken Hearts Beach Club is a light, summery, and heartwarming read. You can see the summer movie play in your mind--the beach, the friendship, the side plots for the other girls, and the mysterious hot guy that worms his way into the narrative.

While this book was light, it did take me about 1/3 of the book to become really invested in any of the girls' storylines. I will say I was a little more intrigued about the friends' storylines than the FMC's. And then, when I was finally cheering for the FMC for standing up for herself, for maintaining her boundaries, for putting herself first, I was very much hoping that the expected ending would prove me wrong, but that didn't happen. To be honest, though I wasn't surprised, I was a little disappointed that all these great arguments the FMC made about why her previous relationship didn't work didn't apply to her interest in the MMC--moving to a whole different state to be with him when she didn't know him that well at all. A Roman Holiday type of ending would've been more heartfelt and poignant, but I guess for a clean and idealistic summer read, a happy ending is inevitable.

Still, this was a light and easy read--perfect to take on your next summer holiday.

[Fallon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those sweet and short female-driven character stories. We have 3 friends who are all going through something heartbreaking, one just lost her baby at 9-months pregnant, one has a spouse who cheated on her and called off the wedding, the third is pregnant, but she and her husband didn't want kids due to their lifestyle, and she's terrified that he will not want her anymore. I mean, I think the last one is less terrible than the first two, but still, these women are going through it. They decide to leave Nashville and head to Florida, as they have been offered a mansion to stay in for a week. During their first day, a hot chef shows up, and now they have a chef to cook their dinners. Of course, he and Emily, the one with the crappy fiancé, hit it off, so we see a budding romance occur here as she breaks down his walls. It is that all these women are only in town for a week, and during this week, they get hit with a tropical storm. Plus, they are dealing with all their emotions and feelings, and dealing with the hard stuff together. The story has a primary focus on Emily, but I think we see the importance of female friendships and how those relationships help you through the tough times. I do think that a week is way too fast for a romance, but when you know, you know. Overall, this is a sweet, uplifting story that is more than a romance; it is about friendship and healing, and discovering who you are outside of your original expectations. Well worth the read.

[Wendie Zasowski doyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of The Broken Heart Beach Club by Jenny Hale in exchange for an honest review. This book is scheduled to be published next month, just in time for summer reading season.

Set against a charming coastal backdrop, The Broken Heart Beach Club follows three women navigating heartbreak, healing, and new beginnings. As they come together and form an unexpected bond, their friendship becomes a source of strength, helping each of them face the past and open their hearts to what’s next.

This was an enjoyable, easy summer read—exactly what I’ve come to expect from Jenny Hale. Her books always make for great beach reads, and this one is no exception. I especially loved the friendship between the three main characters; it felt genuine and supportive, and was truly the heart of the story.

I also enjoyed the relationship that develops between Patrick and Emily—it added a sweet, romantic layer that balanced the emotional elements of the book.

At times, I did feel that the heavier trauma each of the women experienced was resolved a bit too quickly, which made some of the emotional arcs feel slightly rushed. However, the story ultimately delivers a feel-good, satisfying ending that leaves you with a sense of hope and warmth.

Overall, a solid pick if you’re looking for a light, uplifting read to toss in your beach bag this summer

[Sammy Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 🌟🎧 ALC

"I'll never find the sun if I stay in the storm."

Thank you Dreamscape Media, Netgalley & Jenny Hale for the opportunity to review this ALC.

A quick, easy listen. the narrator sets the tone with a soft, mild mannered voice which matches the FMC perfectly. Distinguishing the three friends voices in the beginning was semi difficult.

This one truly caught me by surprise. I am not one to willingly choose a romance novel. I was expecting a corny kind of love story, but this is SO SO much more than that. I wouldnt even call it a romance, it was more self discovery with romance.

Three best friends weathering three vastly different storms in their lives. Storms that aren't made up for a good story or fluff, each one is so relatable and realistic that every reader will be able to connect with one of these women in some way. It immediately made me think of my people; the ones I go to for anything and everything. It hits home to realize how much your girls anchor you; they heal you in a way no one else can.

The actual storm that happens in the background of the story holds such hidden symbolism that I really enjoyed. The author did a great job with the finer details 👏🏼. I am also a little biased on the ending as it was similar to how I ended up with my husband; a spontaneous decision that changed my life for the better 🥰

A must listen to this summer. 🌸❤️‍🩹

[AllBookedUp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming and beautifully written. This is an uplifting story about how three best friends, Blair, Emily, and Sienna are truly there for each other. Meeting at their usual cafe, they rally around Blair, a social media specialist, after she loses her baby at nine months. Sienna, a realtor who has just found a magnificent home for a very well known musician, is given access to his private vacation house for the summer. They decide it is the perfect chance to get away, take a girls trip, and really be there for each other.

At the cafe, Sienna also shares that she is pregnant, though she is unsure about telling her spouse. Once they arrive, they spend time at the beach and end up naming it “The Broken Hearts Beach Club,” especially after Emily reveals she has to cancel her upcoming wedding because her partner not only called off the wedding, but ended their relationship.

This is a story that will speak to anyone who wishes they had this kind of support system, or to those who already have a close circle where they can be vulnerable and know they are safe.

Naturally, there is a hot chef and a cute kid involved, so my heart just went, “awwwwwwww.”

The narrator truly had me spellbound. She hit all the right tones and made me feel like I was part of their group.

Many thanks to Dreamscape Media for providing an eAudio in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Aamazingreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

At her lowest point, an impromptu meet makes her aching heart falter.

The Broken Hearts Beach Club, by Jenny Hale, is a clean women’s fiction/contemporary romance, about found family, community and resilience.

For fans of: A Brewed Awakening, Sweet Magnolias
Story/narration: 4.25⭐️

This is a heartwarming story about three friends coming together, for connection and a change of perspective, in a beautiful beach house. They have a chance encounter with a quiet and broody chef.

Each woman is dealing with a different heartache; mental health challenges are discussed (please check your TWs). There is some light talk about religion, i.e. “God’s plans.”

I enjoyed the story and it will make for a great summer or weekend read.

For suggestions, the story could be improved with some tighter narrative, more natural dialogue and some additional action or twists in the middle section.

Narrator Kelli Tager carried the story well, with some character variations for the various female and male characters.

Tropes:
Second chance romance
Forced proximity
Grumpy x Sunshine

Themes:
Friendship
Loss
Growth

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC, in exchange for my honest review; all opinions are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars - This story mainly centres around Emily. Emily's fiance has called off their wedding. Emily's best friends, Blair and Sienna, rally around her while each are going through their own emotional struggles. To escape and reset, they take a girl's trip to the Gulf Coast and stay at a mansion.

Overall, this was a book about friendship and overcoming struggles. A definite beach read. I enjoyed the backdrop for this story. I enjoyed Emily's character. I felt like Blair and Sienna's characters could have been developed more. While the emotional situations were very real, when they were brought up (especially related to Blair and Sienna), they were quickly moved on from or resolved - "well, we're on vacation so we shouldn't dwell". I felt this was extremely unrealistic. In reality, you can't just "shut off" your trauma because you're on vacation - especially trauma/stressors of the magnitude discussed in the book. The romance between Emily and Patrick was sweet. I like how it unfolded.

This was an easy, feel-good kinda book. Would definitely recommend it as a "throw in your beach bag" kinda book.

[Sara Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounding up from 3.5 ⭐️

🎧 Review of ALC received from Netgalley

This is the kind of novel you sink into with sandy toes and a soft breeze in the background; a sweet, heartwarming beach read!

At its heart, the story follows three women Emily, Sienna, and Blair who retreat to a beautiful seaside home while each quietly carrying their own version of heartbreak.
It is a journey of healing, honesty, and self discovery, with a gentle thread of romance.

What makes this book shine isn’t just the setting but the way it captures friendship as a lifeline. It paints a tender picture of sisterhood, showing how friends can hold you together when life pulls you apart. The emotional core feels grounded and relatable. It is about love, loss, and moving forward.

Overall, this is a story about support, connection, and the quiet strength found in letting others in. It’s gentle, reflective, and full of heart; reminding you that healing often begins with the people who stand beside you.

A big Thank you to NetGalley, the author and DreamScape for gifted audiobook. All opinions are mine.

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