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Under the Boardwalk
Every sunrise. Every coffee. One week that changes everything.
Katherine, a sixty-something interior designer, returns alone to Pawleys Island to scatter her late husband's ashes.
Michael, a retired police detective, is there the same week - taking the anniversary trip his wife was supposed to share before she left without a word six months ago.
When they meet under the boardwalk at sunrise, neither is looking for a new beginning. They are simply trying to survive their grief.
Over seven unhurried days on the South Carolina coast, broken hearts recognize themselves in a stranger. What begins as a hesitant friendship becomes something deeper - and entirely uncharted.
Under the Boardwalk is a heartwarming, closed-door romance about the difference between mourning a death and mourning an abandoned relationship. It is a story about the messy, terrifying courage it takes to start over, and the quiet miracle of love arriving when you've stopped expecting it.
Katherine, a sixty-something interior designer, returns alone to Pawleys Island to scatter her late husband's ashes.
Michael, a retired police detective, is there the same week - taking the anniversary trip his wife was supposed to share before she left without a word six months ago.
When they meet under the boardwalk at sunrise, neither is looking for a new beginning. They are simply trying to survive their grief.
Over seven unhurried days on the South Carolina coast, broken hearts recognize themselves in a stranger. What begins as a hesitant friendship becomes something deeper - and entirely uncharted.
Under the Boardwalk is a heartwarming, closed-door romance about the difference between mourning a death and mourning an abandoned relationship. It is a story about the messy, terrifying courage it takes to start over, and the quiet miracle of love arriving when you've stopped expecting it.
- GenresRomance
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2026
About the author
Maggie May Ainsworth
3 books17 followersMaggie May Ainsworth is an avid reader with a passion for emotional love stories with deep connections. She was born in California and resides in Georgia with her husband and four children. She draws inspiration from music, reading, photography, and the ocean. When not writing, she is singing, playing guitar, teaching music, or directing musical theatre. Under the Boardwalk is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 1, 2026
📚✨ UNDER THE BOARDWALK by Maggie May Ainsworth ✨📚
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌊 A sweet, emotional second-chance romance that proves sometimes finding love again is about opening your heart—not turning up the spice. 💕
Under the Boardwalk is a heartfelt second-chance romance about finding your way back to love after experiencing loss. It explores what happens when you’re given the chance to open your heart again and discover that moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting the love you had before. 🥹❤️
💭 This was a 4⭐️ read for me, and I genuinely enjoyed this story! Maggie May Ainsworth’s writing style pulled me in, and there was something incredibly sweet and comforting about this romance. 🥰
My biggest reason for not giving it five stars? The first half was almost TOO sweet and TOO perfect. 😂💕 I was craving a little more tension, conflict, drama, or emotional angst—something that would have me desperately rooting for these two to figure things out. I wanted that “PLEASE just make this work!” feeling a little sooner.
And then… the second half delivered exactly what I was looking for. 🙌🔥 The emotional depth picked up, the stakes felt stronger, and I became much more invested in their journey.
What I especially loved is that this wasn't a romance centered around spice. 🌶️🚫 Instead, it was about emotions, healing, grief, vulnerability, and being ready to let someone new into your life after losing your first love. ❤️🩹
That emotional element made this feel like such a beautiful and heartfelt second-chance romance. If you're looking for a softer romance that focuses more on the characters and their emotions than steam, this one may be right up your alley. 🌊📖💕
💞 Second Chance Romance ❤️🩹 Healing After Loss 💕 Emotional Romance 🌊 Sweet & Heartfelt 🏖️ Beach Read Vibes ✨ New Beginnings 💭 Emotional Connection 📚 Character-Driven Romance ❤️ Finding Love Again after 50
Overall, Under the Boardwalk was a sweet, emotional, beautifully written romance that ultimately gave me the feelings I was looking for. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what Maggie May Ainsworth writes next! 📚💙
If you love emotional second-chance romances with a focus on healing, love, and new beginnings, add this one to your TBR! 📝💕
🌊 A sweet, emotional second-chance romance that proves sometimes finding love again is about opening your heart—not turning up the spice. 💕
Under the Boardwalk is a heartfelt second-chance romance about finding your way back to love after experiencing loss. It explores what happens when you’re given the chance to open your heart again and discover that moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting the love you had before. 🥹❤️
💭 This was a 4⭐️ read for me, and I genuinely enjoyed this story! Maggie May Ainsworth’s writing style pulled me in, and there was something incredibly sweet and comforting about this romance. 🥰
My biggest reason for not giving it five stars? The first half was almost TOO sweet and TOO perfect. 😂💕 I was craving a little more tension, conflict, drama, or emotional angst—something that would have me desperately rooting for these two to figure things out. I wanted that “PLEASE just make this work!” feeling a little sooner.
And then… the second half delivered exactly what I was looking for. 🙌🔥 The emotional depth picked up, the stakes felt stronger, and I became much more invested in their journey.
What I especially loved is that this wasn't a romance centered around spice. 🌶️🚫 Instead, it was about emotions, healing, grief, vulnerability, and being ready to let someone new into your life after losing your first love. ❤️🩹
That emotional element made this feel like such a beautiful and heartfelt second-chance romance. If you're looking for a softer romance that focuses more on the characters and their emotions than steam, this one may be right up your alley. 🌊📖💕
💞 Second Chance Romance ❤️🩹 Healing After Loss 💕 Emotional Romance 🌊 Sweet & Heartfelt 🏖️ Beach Read Vibes ✨ New Beginnings 💭 Emotional Connection 📚 Character-Driven Romance ❤️ Finding Love Again after 50
Overall, Under the Boardwalk was a sweet, emotional, beautifully written romance that ultimately gave me the feelings I was looking for. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what Maggie May Ainsworth writes next! 📚💙
If you love emotional second-chance romances with a focus on healing, love, and new beginnings, add this one to your TBR! 📝💕
August 7, 2026
This the sweetest book about new beginnings, self doubt, and exploring the chance to find love after loss.
The characters are middle aged and perfect for readers who like their characters mature and communicate their feelings.
This love story won't hit you like a Tsunami. Instead, it comes in waves. The characters tread gently into the water, knowing the risks of falling too hard and too fast. Coming together, but then pulling away.
I loved watching the characters navigate their emotions with the past and how they bled into their current situation. The author creates a picturesque scene and now anytime I see a boardwalk over the ocean, I will never not think of this story.
Highly recommend for readers who love Nicholas Sparks. Low spice and full of heart.
The characters are middle aged and perfect for readers who like their characters mature and communicate their feelings.
This love story won't hit you like a Tsunami. Instead, it comes in waves. The characters tread gently into the water, knowing the risks of falling too hard and too fast. Coming together, but then pulling away.
I loved watching the characters navigate their emotions with the past and how they bled into their current situation. The author creates a picturesque scene and now anytime I see a boardwalk over the ocean, I will never not think of this story.
Highly recommend for readers who love Nicholas Sparks. Low spice and full of heart.
July 2, 2026
What a beautifully charming book! It is written from a unique perspective that gives readers special insight into the characters as the book progresses. It is heartwarming, sensitive, and hopeful. I highly recommend it and hope to read more from the author in the future.
October 1, 2026
A beautiful story of love again after loss.
Katherine and Michael meet each other in an idyllic setting for romance, beautiful Pawleys Island in South Carolina. Both in their sixties, each drowning in grief and loneliness, they struggle to find the courage to love again after loss.
This poignant, but uplifting story is so skillfully written that it’s hard to believe it is Ms. Ainsworth’s debut novel. She is an auto-buy author for me now! Looking forward to her next book!
Katherine and Michael meet each other in an idyllic setting for romance, beautiful Pawleys Island in South Carolina. Both in their sixties, each drowning in grief and loneliness, they struggle to find the courage to love again after loss.
This poignant, but uplifting story is so skillfully written that it’s hard to believe it is Ms. Ainsworth’s debut novel. She is an auto-buy author for me now! Looking forward to her next book!
June 28, 2026
AD/PR
e-ARC Review
This was the most beautiful story, I only wish I'd read it by the sea!
A chance encounter on the beach, watching a sunrise brings together two lost souls who have had their share of heartbreak. But until they start talking, I don't think they really realised how lost they were and their discoveries of themselves is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Katherine and Michael meet when they are both spending a week by the sea on Pawleys Island, a place that has been special to them and their families for many years. Now, they are both there alone for the first time - Katherine, after the death of her husband Charlie and Michael, after his wife of 40 years left him. Their daily meets and shared coffee orders turn into a beautiful friendship, giving them both back feelings they thought they'd never feel again.
This story is told from alternating points of view so we see how each of their encounters is affecting them both. I really enjoyed how we find out more and more about them through their daily conversations. There is also the lovely relationship between Katherine and her daughter Elise, as well as the slightly different relationship Michael has with his children, Lillian and Julian. Is there ever a right time to move on? With two different experiences of grief, Katherine and Michael have difficult decisions to navigate but is it ever too late to find love and start again?
What a debut this is! Beautifully written, with such depth of emotion and the descriptions place you right there on that beach. There were moments I didn't think it would turn out the way I was expecting and some breath-holding moments where I hoped I wasn't about to read what I was wishing wouldn't happen! (Trying not to give any spoilers here!!)
If you like second chance romances, love in the most unexpected places, characters you only wish the very best for and beautiful surroundings, then this one's for you.
Thank you so much to Victory Editing NetGalley Coop, Maggie May Ainsworth and Net Galley for my e-ARC.
Out now and a perfect summer read.
e-ARC Review
This was the most beautiful story, I only wish I'd read it by the sea!
A chance encounter on the beach, watching a sunrise brings together two lost souls who have had their share of heartbreak. But until they start talking, I don't think they really realised how lost they were and their discoveries of themselves is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Katherine and Michael meet when they are both spending a week by the sea on Pawleys Island, a place that has been special to them and their families for many years. Now, they are both there alone for the first time - Katherine, after the death of her husband Charlie and Michael, after his wife of 40 years left him. Their daily meets and shared coffee orders turn into a beautiful friendship, giving them both back feelings they thought they'd never feel again.
This story is told from alternating points of view so we see how each of their encounters is affecting them both. I really enjoyed how we find out more and more about them through their daily conversations. There is also the lovely relationship between Katherine and her daughter Elise, as well as the slightly different relationship Michael has with his children, Lillian and Julian. Is there ever a right time to move on? With two different experiences of grief, Katherine and Michael have difficult decisions to navigate but is it ever too late to find love and start again?
What a debut this is! Beautifully written, with such depth of emotion and the descriptions place you right there on that beach. There were moments I didn't think it would turn out the way I was expecting and some breath-holding moments where I hoped I wasn't about to read what I was wishing wouldn't happen! (Trying not to give any spoilers here!!)
If you like second chance romances, love in the most unexpected places, characters you only wish the very best for and beautiful surroundings, then this one's for you.
Thank you so much to Victory Editing NetGalley Coop, Maggie May Ainsworth and Net Galley for my e-ARC.
Out now and a perfect summer read.
August 30, 2026
This debut novel by Maggie May Ainsworth is a light, sweet foray into the complications and uncertainties of second chance romance.
It follows protagonists Michael and Katherine, both grieving different losses as they pursue their families’ long-held tradition of going to the beach for vacation. Katherine has recently lost her husband of many decades and is doing the hard work of grieving and letting go. Michael’s wife of nearly 40 years walked out without a word of explanation, and he is grieving the life he thought he had. During an early morning visit to the pier, they have a chance meeting under the boardwalk that begins to grow to something more…
There is much to like in this debut. The author writes the story with a light, gentle touch that runs throughout the whole of the book. She has a clear love for both her characters and the complexities of their family dynamics and inner worlds. She also shows a familiarity of the Romance genre and weaves her characters through the familiar 3-act structure of fearful (but excited) burgeoning love.
One area where I struggled as a reader was in how dialogue-heavy the book leaned, whether that was in conversation between characters or in inner dialogue. This might come down to personal preference (first person can be a hit or miss POV for me), and it might also be some of the learning curve of writing one’s debut book.
Something that I deeply appreciated was actually at the end of the book where the author included book club questions. I thought they were a nice bonus to help foster and nurture community. It was clear to me that healthy relationships and community is near and dear to the author’s heart, and I appreciated that she was mindful to create that piece of care for the readers.
All in all, I think Ms. Ainsworth crafted a lovely debut that clearly highlights what she most loves—kind community, life-giving words, and relationships that can heal and sustain even through difficult and complex seasons.
It follows protagonists Michael and Katherine, both grieving different losses as they pursue their families’ long-held tradition of going to the beach for vacation. Katherine has recently lost her husband of many decades and is doing the hard work of grieving and letting go. Michael’s wife of nearly 40 years walked out without a word of explanation, and he is grieving the life he thought he had. During an early morning visit to the pier, they have a chance meeting under the boardwalk that begins to grow to something more…
There is much to like in this debut. The author writes the story with a light, gentle touch that runs throughout the whole of the book. She has a clear love for both her characters and the complexities of their family dynamics and inner worlds. She also shows a familiarity of the Romance genre and weaves her characters through the familiar 3-act structure of fearful (but excited) burgeoning love.
One area where I struggled as a reader was in how dialogue-heavy the book leaned, whether that was in conversation between characters or in inner dialogue. This might come down to personal preference (first person can be a hit or miss POV for me), and it might also be some of the learning curve of writing one’s debut book.
Something that I deeply appreciated was actually at the end of the book where the author included book club questions. I thought they were a nice bonus to help foster and nurture community. It was clear to me that healthy relationships and community is near and dear to the author’s heart, and I appreciated that she was mindful to create that piece of care for the readers.
All in all, I think Ms. Ainsworth crafted a lovely debut that clearly highlights what she most loves—kind community, life-giving words, and relationships that can heal and sustain even through difficult and complex seasons.
September 15, 2026
Under the Boardwalk is the kind of second-chance story that sneaks up on you and then refuses to leave.
Maggie May Ainsworth’s debut follows Katherine, a widow still carrying the memory of her late husband, and Michael, a man whose wife of nearly forty years walked out without explanation. They meet on the beach at Pawleys Island before the rest of the world is awake. What starts as two lonely people sharing a pier becomes six days of conversation that slowly—then suddenly—changes everything.
At times it is dialogue heavy, but that’s not a bug, it’s the whole point. Ainsworth lets these two talk the way real people talk when they’re terrified and hopeful at the same time: about coffee, kids, the little habits that disappear when someone is gone, the guilt of feeling something new. You don’t get plot fireworks every chapter. You get two people learning how to be seen again. If you want a thriller with a kiss at the end, this isn’t it. If you want to sit under a boardwalk and listen to two hearts thaw out, then this book is for you.
The book is honest about grief without drowning in it. Katherine’s love for Charlie never gets erased. Michael’s marriage to Anne isn’t rewritten as a mistake. The past stays in the room, and the story is better for it. When the week on the island ends and real life (kids, letters, an unexpected return) crashes in, the book earns its later tension instead of manufacturing it.
This is later-in-life romance that treats sixty like it still has a pulse. Low spice, high feeling, alternating POVs that do work, and an ending that chooses hope without pretending healing is tidy.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s allowed to want something again after the life you planned fell apart—Under the Boardwalk says yes. Then it hands you a cinnamon latte and waits for the sun.
Maggie May Ainsworth’s debut follows Katherine, a widow still carrying the memory of her late husband, and Michael, a man whose wife of nearly forty years walked out without explanation. They meet on the beach at Pawleys Island before the rest of the world is awake. What starts as two lonely people sharing a pier becomes six days of conversation that slowly—then suddenly—changes everything.
At times it is dialogue heavy, but that’s not a bug, it’s the whole point. Ainsworth lets these two talk the way real people talk when they’re terrified and hopeful at the same time: about coffee, kids, the little habits that disappear when someone is gone, the guilt of feeling something new. You don’t get plot fireworks every chapter. You get two people learning how to be seen again. If you want a thriller with a kiss at the end, this isn’t it. If you want to sit under a boardwalk and listen to two hearts thaw out, then this book is for you.
The book is honest about grief without drowning in it. Katherine’s love for Charlie never gets erased. Michael’s marriage to Anne isn’t rewritten as a mistake. The past stays in the room, and the story is better for it. When the week on the island ends and real life (kids, letters, an unexpected return) crashes in, the book earns its later tension instead of manufacturing it.
This is later-in-life romance that treats sixty like it still has a pulse. Low spice, high feeling, alternating POVs that do work, and an ending that chooses hope without pretending healing is tidy.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s allowed to want something again after the life you planned fell apart—Under the Boardwalk says yes. Then it hands you a cinnamon latte and waits for the sun.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What do you do when it seems like your happily ever after is over? How do you overcome a grief so strong? Do you eventually let go and live the life your lifelong love would have wanted you to experience? Katherine and Michael are struggling with exactly the same thoughts, just in their own separate ways. How do you learn to navigate life in a new, unfamiliar, and even frightening way without your #1 by your side? In this second-chance romance, Maggie May Ainsworth tells the story of two characters who while may be similar in age, are complete opposites in personality. Katherine is sweet, timid, and sensitive, but also strong. She’s wary and cautious around new people. Michael is more open, willing to put it all on the line for what he believes in. And he strongly believes in his newfound feelings for Katherine. For her debut novel, Ainsworth delves into the journey of growing old, and the grief that comes along with that. Her depictions of emotion through trials and tribulations are wonderfully complex, and she doesn’t stray away from still giving us a happy ending, even through all of life’s ups and downs. I can’t wait for the world to unravel this story, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for this up-and-coming author!
July 2, 2026
Lovely second chance romance with mature main characters, 3.5 stars
Katherine travels to Pawleys Island, a place where she and her late husband spent many happy times. He hasn't been dead very long, and Katherine is still grieving his loss. Michael, a recent divorcee, is on the island taking a solo vacation after his wife left him 6 months ago. It was to have been their anniversary trip, so there's a lot of open wounds.
When Michael and Katherine meet, neither of them are ready to jump into a relationship. Katherine is happy to find a friend. Michael is a bit more invested than friends, but is willing to take things at Katherine's pace. He still has a lot of unresolved questions about his marriage of 40 years ending with no explanation, and 6 months is too short to have come to grips with the loss.
I liked the book. It is refreshing to come across a story with mature characters who are still interested in finding love and relationships. I feel like I could have been friends with either of them if they were real people. They both had to make difficult decisions and deal with guilt. Recommend.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Katherine travels to Pawleys Island, a place where she and her late husband spent many happy times. He hasn't been dead very long, and Katherine is still grieving his loss. Michael, a recent divorcee, is on the island taking a solo vacation after his wife left him 6 months ago. It was to have been their anniversary trip, so there's a lot of open wounds.
When Michael and Katherine meet, neither of them are ready to jump into a relationship. Katherine is happy to find a friend. Michael is a bit more invested than friends, but is willing to take things at Katherine's pace. He still has a lot of unresolved questions about his marriage of 40 years ending with no explanation, and 6 months is too short to have come to grips with the loss.
I liked the book. It is refreshing to come across a story with mature characters who are still interested in finding love and relationships. I feel like I could have been friends with either of them if they were real people. They both had to make difficult decisions and deal with guilt. Recommend.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
September 29, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Under the Boardwalk. It was a very emotional and sentimental read as we are introduced to the characters Michael and Katherine. In this love story, I experienced what it takes to heal, not just within ourselves, but with the support of others. The author does a great job depicting this through characterization by emphasizing the importance of family, friendship, and forgiveness.
What I also like about the characterization is how the author doesn’t hide Michael’s feelings, thoughts, and emotions. In many books I have read, male characters are described as strong and unemotional individuals even when they're hurting. In this love story, Micheal’s vulnerability is at the forefront. This shows the realistic side that men are emotional human beings as well.
As for Katherine, readers get to experience what it takes to learn to love someone else by letting go. Sometimes letting go also means taking a step back and giving yourself time to heal before moving forward.
Overall, this was a delightful and heartfelt romance. Readers will enjoy Under the Boardwalk. It is a romance that really captures your heart.
What I also like about the characterization is how the author doesn’t hide Michael’s feelings, thoughts, and emotions. In many books I have read, male characters are described as strong and unemotional individuals even when they're hurting. In this love story, Micheal’s vulnerability is at the forefront. This shows the realistic side that men are emotional human beings as well.
As for Katherine, readers get to experience what it takes to learn to love someone else by letting go. Sometimes letting go also means taking a step back and giving yourself time to heal before moving forward.
Overall, this was a delightful and heartfelt romance. Readers will enjoy Under the Boardwalk. It is a romance that really captures your heart.
July 3, 2026
My book bestie WROTE A BOOK! First off 1 am just so impressed that she wrote a book but secondly, it's amazing! One of the most beautiful, atmospheric, special books I've ever read and I know you would love it too! Under the Boardwalk takes place in Pawleys Island with the most beautiful descriptions of the beach & sunrise, making you feel like you're there. It is such a beautiful story about second chance love when & where you least expect it.
What starts out as just coffee dates watching the sunrise sometimes in silence but together, turns into the possibility of love when neither was looking for it and there is something so beautiful and pure about that. Katherine is a widow and came back to where she and Charlie would vacation together while Michael is newly divorced and it was not expected so they're both just seeking solace at the beach and find each other.
This was such a beautiful story and it is out now so go grab your copy!
What starts out as just coffee dates watching the sunrise sometimes in silence but together, turns into the possibility of love when neither was looking for it and there is something so beautiful and pure about that. Katherine is a widow and came back to where she and Charlie would vacation together while Michael is newly divorced and it was not expected so they're both just seeking solace at the beach and find each other.
This was such a beautiful story and it is out now so go grab your copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reading Maggie May’s Under The Boardwalk has been my favorite book I read this year! This book is a wonderful read! I’m not typically into romance novels but the second chance love intrigued me. This book is emotional, real, raw, funny, and deals with many issues people face daily. I love the beach and Georgetown so this book was very fun being based in one of my favorite beach destinations. It was an easy read and each chapter left me wanting to read more. I honestly struggled to put this book down because it was so amazing. The characters feel so authentic and I can relate to the different characters at different points in the book. I recommend everyone to read this book! There really is something for everyone in this book and it worth the read. I absolutely loved this book! It was such a joy to read and I am excited for Maggie May’s next book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wonderful debut book by indie author, Maggie May!
Reading this amazing book gives hope for love and second chances. The author does a great job exploring love and second chances despite hardships which people encounter in life. While not a huge reader myself, I could not put this book down once I started it. I honestly dreaded interruptions when reading it and was so excited when I had the opportunity to get back to the story. It was truly a delight to read this book; the storyline is easy to follow. If you are looking for a great book to read which will keep you looking forward to the next page and chapter to see what occurs next between Michael and Katherine and how the story turns out, this book is for you. Highly recommend!!
Reading this amazing book gives hope for love and second chances. The author does a great job exploring love and second chances despite hardships which people encounter in life. While not a huge reader myself, I could not put this book down once I started it. I honestly dreaded interruptions when reading it and was so excited when I had the opportunity to get back to the story. It was truly a delight to read this book; the storyline is easy to follow. If you are looking for a great book to read which will keep you looking forward to the next page and chapter to see what occurs next between Michael and Katherine and how the story turns out, this book is for you. Highly recommend!!
July 4, 2026
Under the Boardwalk is a later-in-life, second-chance romance about two older characters, Katherine and Michael, who bond over deep loss. Navigating grief—one from death, the other from divorce—they unexpectedly find a meaningful connection at their favorite place, facing the courage it takes to start over.
The novel contrasts two distinct types of profound loss. Katherine navigates the finality of death, while Michael processes the rejection of divorce. Ainsworth shows that grief is not a straight line or a checklist. Instead, it hits in unpredictable waves, much like the ocean setting of the book. I absolutely inhaled this book. Maggie's writing is so beautiful and I look forward to reading more books by her.
The novel contrasts two distinct types of profound loss. Katherine navigates the finality of death, while Michael processes the rejection of divorce. Ainsworth shows that grief is not a straight line or a checklist. Instead, it hits in unpredictable waves, much like the ocean setting of the book. I absolutely inhaled this book. Maggie's writing is so beautiful and I look forward to reading more books by her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to Maggie May Ainsworth and NetGalley for the eARC of Under the Boardwalk.
What a beautiful debut novel. It is not very often that you read a romance book with characters over 60 years old. While I am a little ways away from this demographic, I was instantly drawn to Katherine and Michael. They both had compelling and interesting pasts, and them meeting under the boardwalk just seemed kismet.
The way their story unfolds over the course of a week at the beach immerses you in the setting, and you find yourself wanting to visit all the locations they go to.
This is a heartwarming, touching romance novel that will have you believing in second chances and second loves.
What a beautiful debut novel. It is not very often that you read a romance book with characters over 60 years old. While I am a little ways away from this demographic, I was instantly drawn to Katherine and Michael. They both had compelling and interesting pasts, and them meeting under the boardwalk just seemed kismet.
The way their story unfolds over the course of a week at the beach immerses you in the setting, and you find yourself wanting to visit all the locations they go to.
This is a heartwarming, touching romance novel that will have you believing in second chances and second loves.
June 19, 2026
Under the Boardwalk by Maggie May Ainsworth is a cozy seaside romance that proves love stories do not have an expiration date. I really enjoyed seeing older characters take center stage as they navigated grief, healing, second chances, and learning to trust their hearts again. The small coastal town setting was charming and made me wish I was sitting by the ocean with a cinnamon latte in hand. While the pacing felt a little slow in a few places, I genuinely liked both main characters and found myself rooting for their happiness. This book just felt so real and authentic. If you enjoy mature romances filled with heart, hope, and emotional growth, this is a lovely escape.
July 23, 2026
This was such a sweet story about two older people who found solace in a simple meeting under the boardwalk. Whether they stood in comfortable silence or slowly revealed parts of themselves, they simply felt good there. Katherine and Michael both carried sad and emotional pasts, and getting to know them as their relationship grew was heartfelt. I really loved following their journey beyond grief.
And absolutely loved that the book included a beautiful “in memory” note and quote that was so sweet and made the story even more special.
And absolutely loved that the book included a beautiful “in memory” note and quote that was so sweet and made the story even more special.
July 8, 2026
(ARC) This is the kind of book that really makes you think about death and the future. One thing I really love is the author's writing style. She writes in such a sweet and unique way. The characters feel so real. They have their strengths as well as their flaws. It's easy to see how Katherine and Michael are drawn together the way that they are! I can't wait to see what this author writes in the future.
September 9, 2026
This is such a sweet book! I loved the softness of the story. Read this on a cold night - it will warm you up from the inside out. The characters are so sweet, and I loved the setting. It’s definitely a read that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. This is great for those who want to read about people who are mature and deserving of a second chance at love. Definitely recommend, and I will be on the lookout for more books from this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Under The Boardwalk by Maggie May is such a beautiful story! I absolutely loved this book!! Maggie May does a beautiful job of telling the story of Michael and Katherine and how they learn to navigate grief and loss, while still living their lives. I would definitely recommend this book at anyone looking for a new read! I can’t wait to read more from this new author!
September 13, 2026
i absolutely loved this book! the story was such a sweet and unexpected romance. I really enjoyed watching Katherine and Michael’s friendship slowly turn into something more. I loved the emotional depth of their characters and the way their pasts shaped the way they approached love. It was such an easy book to get lost in. Definitely a feel good romance that left me smiling when I finished!
October 5, 2026
I had no idea what this book would be and fell in love with it within the first chapter. I love how Michael and Katherine walked through so much heartache and still found a new chance on the other side. I love how it was slow and steady and more true to life. I didn't want to say goodbye to the story at the end. I loved everything about it.
October 11, 2026
This is a lovely story where we see love can be found again in our later years. Some family members felt one must not move on, but hold on to the good memories. What I did not understand Michael is divorce from Ann and yet she comes back giving the impression that all is well again. Reality of life, not so. All in all not a bad story.
July 7, 2026
You can really tell when an author puts their whole heart into writing and this is true for Under the Boardwalk. It’s a sweet older romance which I thought was so unique to any story I had previously read. Pick this up for your next beach read!
October 4, 2026
I cried so hard (in a good way) because this second chance romance hits you with all the feels! Katherine and Michael meet in their sixties and find love! Her partner passed away, his partner left him, but they find each other! So sweet and hopeful, it was just amazing! Read this book!
September 16, 2026
This book was such a sweet romance blended with an emotional roller coaster. You will feel so many things and go on quite a journey. I very much enjoyed this book and these characters. It elicited a strong emotional response from me, earning it those 5 stars. Very well done.
September 17, 2026
This was a very sweet, low-tension romance that I think will especially appeal to readers who enjoy clean, no-spice love stories with a softer feel.
October 4, 2026
A second chance to love again.
A wonderful book how you can find love after losing or divorcing the one you loved the most. An emotional read and true feelings in this book.
A wonderful book how you can find love after losing or divorcing the one you loved the most. An emotional read and true feelings in this book.
October 6, 2026
Wonderful
What a wonderful story about two older people falling in love. Second loves in many ways. Gives hope to all that thought they would never love again!
What a wonderful story about two older people falling in love. Second loves in many ways. Gives hope to all that thought they would never love again!
October 8, 2026
Wow
Wow! What a lot of growth and support happens when you find your person. Katherine is mourning the the loss of Charlie and Michael is struggling to the understand Anne.
Wow! What a lot of growth and support happens when you find your person. Katherine is mourning the the loss of Charlie and Michael is struggling to the understand Anne.
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