What do you think?
Rate this book
Chesapeake Diaries #10
Driftwood Point
The sun sets on the Chesapeake Diaries, Mariah Stewart’s cherished series based on Maryland’s picturesque eastern shore, with this romantic tale of a man who takes a second chance on love with the high school crush who broke his heart.
Up-and-coming artist Lisbeth Parker finally has a chance to show the folks back home what it means to leave Cannonball Island and make something of yourself. As a native whose stubborn father forbade her from befriending townies, Lis always felt like an outsider in St. Dennis. So while her work is on display in the local art gallery, she records her ailing centenarian great-grandmother’s stories of the island’s rich history and spearheads a fight for its survival.
Lis was Alec Jansen’s secret dream girl growing up, even after she flat-out refused to be his prom date. Now the handsome environmental engineer and the whip-smart beauty are on opposite sides of a debate over the island’s future. Hired to prove that developing the shore will have little impact on the area’s natural integrity and huge gains for its economy, Alec is determined to change his alluring, headstrong rival’s mind—and to win her heart.
Up-and-coming artist Lisbeth Parker finally has a chance to show the folks back home what it means to leave Cannonball Island and make something of yourself. As a native whose stubborn father forbade her from befriending townies, Lis always felt like an outsider in St. Dennis. So while her work is on display in the local art gallery, she records her ailing centenarian great-grandmother’s stories of the island’s rich history and spearheads a fight for its survival.
Lis was Alec Jansen’s secret dream girl growing up, even after she flat-out refused to be his prom date. Now the handsome environmental engineer and the whip-smart beauty are on opposite sides of a debate over the island’s future. Hired to prove that developing the shore will have little impact on the area’s natural integrity and huge gains for its economy, Alec is determined to change his alluring, headstrong rival’s mind—and to win her heart.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2016
320 people are currently reading
803 people want to read
About the author
Mariah Stewart
89 books1,529 followersMariah Stewart is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of forty-one novels and three novellas and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal. She is a RITA finalist in romantic suspense and the recipient of the Award of Excellence for contemporary romance, a RIO Award for excellence in women's fiction, and a Reviewers Choice Award from Romantic Times Magazine. A three-time winner of the Golden Leaf Award presented by the New Jersey Romance Writers, Stewart was recently awarded their Lifetime Achievement Award (which placed her in their Hall of Fame along with former recipients Nora Roberts and Mary Jo Putney — very excellent company, indeed!)
After having written seven contemporary romance novels, Stewart found true happiness writing murder and mayhem. She considers herself one lucky son of a gun to have landed the best job in the world: getting paid for making up stories. At home. In sweats and J. Crew flip flops. Could life be sweeter?
After having written seven contemporary romance novels, Stewart found true happiness writing murder and mayhem. She considers herself one lucky son of a gun to have landed the best job in the world: getting paid for making up stories. At home. In sweats and J. Crew flip flops. Could life be sweeter?
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 14, 2017
This is the tenth book of the Chesapeake Diaries by Mariah Stewart. I have enjoyed the series and feel that the characters of Sinclair Point and St. Dennis are old friends. Mariah Stewart is an author that I have read for many years and have never been disappointed by her books.
Lisbeth Parker grew up on Cannonball Island near Sinclair Point and St. Dennis. The history of Cannonball Island is very interesting. The island became inhabited many years ago by residents of St. Dennis who were driven from the town because they were British sympathizers. Many left their homes and businesses behind with nowhere to go but wound up on the island. They mostly made their living as fishermen on the Chesapeake Bay--some still do. In modern times, the children who grew up on the island went to school in St. Dennis but felt the division. Lisbeth's father forbade her and her brother from making friends with the townspeople. Now, Lisbeth is an accomplished artist coming back home to showcase her work and show people that someone from Cannonball Island can make something of themselves. As she stays with her great grandmother Ruby, who helped raise her, she revisits memories of the area. Ruby owns a small store on the island as well as some prime property. She is a wise woman who has watched many comings and goings during her 100 years and knows that times are changing for Cannonball Island. Development is coming.
Alec Jansen is an environmental engineer who has a love for the area, especially Cannonball Island and its history. He is friends with Ruby and they have had many talks. He has remodeled the residential part of the store where Ruby lives to make it more comfortable for her. Ruby trusts Alec to oversee changes that are going to take place on the island. Alec has cared about Lisbeth since high school and never understood why she turned him down when he asked her to prom. Upon her return to the island, she didn't trust the relationship between Alec and Ruby because she wasn't sure of his intention but slowly that changed.
This was a sweet book that showed how life never stays the same--change is always happening. It was fun to see the closeness develop between Alec and Lis and to see how Lis revisits her roots and realizes that her life on the island was not all bad. Thanks to Mariah Stewart for the Chesapeake Diary series.
Lisbeth Parker grew up on Cannonball Island near Sinclair Point and St. Dennis. The history of Cannonball Island is very interesting. The island became inhabited many years ago by residents of St. Dennis who were driven from the town because they were British sympathizers. Many left their homes and businesses behind with nowhere to go but wound up on the island. They mostly made their living as fishermen on the Chesapeake Bay--some still do. In modern times, the children who grew up on the island went to school in St. Dennis but felt the division. Lisbeth's father forbade her and her brother from making friends with the townspeople. Now, Lisbeth is an accomplished artist coming back home to showcase her work and show people that someone from Cannonball Island can make something of themselves. As she stays with her great grandmother Ruby, who helped raise her, she revisits memories of the area. Ruby owns a small store on the island as well as some prime property. She is a wise woman who has watched many comings and goings during her 100 years and knows that times are changing for Cannonball Island. Development is coming.
Alec Jansen is an environmental engineer who has a love for the area, especially Cannonball Island and its history. He is friends with Ruby and they have had many talks. He has remodeled the residential part of the store where Ruby lives to make it more comfortable for her. Ruby trusts Alec to oversee changes that are going to take place on the island. Alec has cared about Lisbeth since high school and never understood why she turned him down when he asked her to prom. Upon her return to the island, she didn't trust the relationship between Alec and Ruby because she wasn't sure of his intention but slowly that changed.
This was a sweet book that showed how life never stays the same--change is always happening. It was fun to see the closeness develop between Alec and Lis and to see how Lis revisits her roots and realizes that her life on the island was not all bad. Thanks to Mariah Stewart for the Chesapeake Diary series.
February 9, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blogger:
https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I can't believe that we are at book 10 of the Chesapeake series. I've been hooked since book one! I love how we see the people through both reading the story and Grace's written words.
In Driftwood Point we move over to Cannonball Island which is right next to St. Dennis. This books adds another layer to the series. A really good layer. Plus Ruby rocks.
Right away you realize that Lisbeth both loves and hates Cannonball Island. Memories are a funny thing. We see things differently when we grow up. We can also be more responsible for ourselves, not like when we are kids and can only do what are parents tell us to do.
I know you want to know what that statement is about but you'll have to read the book to know.
Right away you wonder about Alec's actions. He seems so nice, you have to wonder if he was for real. I'm here to say, yes he is! He's really a great guy.
These two a perfect together and should have been together all along. Their story is wonderful and I was so glad to have read it.
I would only have to say that the only thing that bugs me about the series is the fact that a few of my favorite characters are getting up there in life and I worry each time I read a book that they will be gone. Crazy, I know!
Follow Me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I can't believe that we are at book 10 of the Chesapeake series. I've been hooked since book one! I love how we see the people through both reading the story and Grace's written words.
In Driftwood Point we move over to Cannonball Island which is right next to St. Dennis. This books adds another layer to the series. A really good layer. Plus Ruby rocks.
Right away you realize that Lisbeth both loves and hates Cannonball Island. Memories are a funny thing. We see things differently when we grow up. We can also be more responsible for ourselves, not like when we are kids and can only do what are parents tell us to do.
I know you want to know what that statement is about but you'll have to read the book to know.
Right away you wonder about Alec's actions. He seems so nice, you have to wonder if he was for real. I'm here to say, yes he is! He's really a great guy.
These two a perfect together and should have been together all along. Their story is wonderful and I was so glad to have read it.
I would only have to say that the only thing that bugs me about the series is the fact that a few of my favorite characters are getting up there in life and I worry each time I read a book that they will be gone. Crazy, I know!
Follow Me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
November 17, 2020
Sweet hearted and gentle series! On to #11
July 12, 2016
I enjoy this Chesapeake Diaries series so much, and always wait in anticipation for the next book to be released. The folks who live in St. Dennis are so likeable and their storylines enjoyable. Introducing us to Cannonball Island and it's residents made this an absolutely wonderful read! Ruby, Lis and Alec will melt your heart and keep you yearning for the next installment of this delightful series. Owen's story should prove to be a great one that I am anxious to read next!
October 31, 2025
This picks up on Cannonball Island again, the place the heroine in the last book visited via bike. We see little of anyone featured in the previous books, with only brief mentions of the settings in St. Dennis that featured prominently in books 1-9.
I liked this one, but it had a different feel than the other books in the series. For nearly the first half, the book was more about the story of the relationship between the heroine, Lis and her great-grandmother Ruby, a 100-year old woman who owns and runs the general store on Cannonball Island. I didn't mind that at all, but if you're looking for a straightforward contemporary romance this definitely won't work for you.
There was definitely a HEA for Lis and her hero Alec, but for most of the book it took second place to the story of the Island, Ruby, and other past residents who lived there.
I liked this one, but it had a different feel than the other books in the series. For nearly the first half, the book was more about the story of the relationship between the heroine, Lis and her great-grandmother Ruby, a 100-year old woman who owns and runs the general store on Cannonball Island. I didn't mind that at all, but if you're looking for a straightforward contemporary romance this definitely won't work for you.
There was definitely a HEA for Lis and her hero Alec, but for most of the book it took second place to the story of the Island, Ruby, and other past residents who lived there.
December 16, 2021
3.75 stars
I recently finished the 10th book in the older Chesapeake Diaries series by Mariah Stewart. Driftwood Point is an enjoyable, and slightly different addition to this series.
This story takes place on the rugged, but picturesque Cannonball Island, just off the more exclusive St. Dennis, and it has a unique and troubled history with it’s wealthier neighbor.
We follow artist Lisbeth Parker, who is back home after a breakup with her fiancé. She wants not only a hiatus from life, but to also find a renewed inspiration for her painting. Additionally, she desires to spend some time with her 100-year old great-grandmother Ruby, who has always been a significant part of her life. While on Cannonball Island, she finds all that and more when she runs into her former crush, Alec Jansen, who has been updating Ruby’s home and generally looking after her.
This story alternates between the present day story and the past history of the island. There were times it dragged a bit for me and I missed the regular residents back on St. Dennis, though we do get to spend some time with them. I did find Lis to be occasionally impulsive, stubborn and short-sighted, but she did show growth as a character over time.
This is a sweet, slow-burn romance and an interesting story. It’s perhaps not my favorite in the series, but definitely a worthwhile read.
I recently finished the 10th book in the older Chesapeake Diaries series by Mariah Stewart. Driftwood Point is an enjoyable, and slightly different addition to this series.
This story takes place on the rugged, but picturesque Cannonball Island, just off the more exclusive St. Dennis, and it has a unique and troubled history with it’s wealthier neighbor.
We follow artist Lisbeth Parker, who is back home after a breakup with her fiancé. She wants not only a hiatus from life, but to also find a renewed inspiration for her painting. Additionally, she desires to spend some time with her 100-year old great-grandmother Ruby, who has always been a significant part of her life. While on Cannonball Island, she finds all that and more when she runs into her former crush, Alec Jansen, who has been updating Ruby’s home and generally looking after her.
This story alternates between the present day story and the past history of the island. There were times it dragged a bit for me and I missed the regular residents back on St. Dennis, though we do get to spend some time with them. I did find Lis to be occasionally impulsive, stubborn and short-sighted, but she did show growth as a character over time.
This is a sweet, slow-burn romance and an interesting story. It’s perhaps not my favorite in the series, but definitely a worthwhile read.
June 29, 2016
I am so blessed to have been a part of Mariah Stewart's amazing series, The Chesapeake Diaries from the very beginning and have lovingly enjoyed each of the novels that she introduces. I truly hope it never ends. Driftwood Point is the 10th novel to enter into the world of the residents of St. Dennis, a charming seaside community along the Chesapeake Bay. Once more readers are taken back to that small town sense of community and companionship you dream really exists in the world.
As the art display of Lisbeth Parker is about to make its debut in the small town, everyone is generally excited to have one of their own, now about to become a well-known name in the world of art. Even though she was raised along the Chesapeake Bay in the nearby Cannonball Island, her paintings are that of New York cityscapes and that of Central Park during the changing seasons. People are truly drawn to them in such a way but even her family wonders why someone who spent her whole life living on the Bay isn't drawn to capture the life of the island and its town before it soon is abandoned much like the beach cottages that lie desolate all over the small community.
She returns to spend some time figuring out why she no longer has the inspiration to paint anymore as many of her painting in her New Jersey apartment now sit vacant and unfinished. Perhaps its the change in her own life as she walked away from an engagement to a man she no longer loved. Is the island calling her back? She now is helping her 100-year-old great grandmother Ruby, run the general store on the island and finding some sort of inspiration she has been missing. Maybe it's time to renovate the family's deteriorating cottage along Driftwood Point and start over again. Whatever life is ready to hand her, she is more than ready.
Alec Jansen has had a crush on Lisbeth since the fifth grade and is more than thrilled when she moves back to Cannonball Island with her great-grandmother, but soon finds himself defending his actions to help her renovate a few things in the general store in lieu of payment by restoring an original skipjack that his family had made. She believes that Alec has taking advantage of her great-grandmother because she always believed the boat should stay as part of her family home. Now it just seems like things are changing and Lis can't do anything to stop them. Alec meanwhile has been hired by a land developer to look into the abandoned homes now all over Cannonball Island in the hopes of making a tidy profit off of buying them, demolishing them and rebuilding something more large and extravagant in their place and his eyes are set primarily on the 22 acres of Driftwood Point.
I received Driftwood Point by Mariah Stewart compliments of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my personal and unbiased review. Coming back to St. Dennis has always been huge favorite of mine and this entire series would make for a great summer read. But trust me, while each can stand on its own, you won't know each of the resident's stories until you read them as they have moved or married within the town limits of St. Dennis. This is truly a charming and heart-warming series and one I am so excited to see whenever there is a new addition. By the way this one ends, looks like there is more in store for the residents of St. Dennis in the very near future. For me this one is another 5 out of 5 stars!
As the art display of Lisbeth Parker is about to make its debut in the small town, everyone is generally excited to have one of their own, now about to become a well-known name in the world of art. Even though she was raised along the Chesapeake Bay in the nearby Cannonball Island, her paintings are that of New York cityscapes and that of Central Park during the changing seasons. People are truly drawn to them in such a way but even her family wonders why someone who spent her whole life living on the Bay isn't drawn to capture the life of the island and its town before it soon is abandoned much like the beach cottages that lie desolate all over the small community.
She returns to spend some time figuring out why she no longer has the inspiration to paint anymore as many of her painting in her New Jersey apartment now sit vacant and unfinished. Perhaps its the change in her own life as she walked away from an engagement to a man she no longer loved. Is the island calling her back? She now is helping her 100-year-old great grandmother Ruby, run the general store on the island and finding some sort of inspiration she has been missing. Maybe it's time to renovate the family's deteriorating cottage along Driftwood Point and start over again. Whatever life is ready to hand her, she is more than ready.
Alec Jansen has had a crush on Lisbeth since the fifth grade and is more than thrilled when she moves back to Cannonball Island with her great-grandmother, but soon finds himself defending his actions to help her renovate a few things in the general store in lieu of payment by restoring an original skipjack that his family had made. She believes that Alec has taking advantage of her great-grandmother because she always believed the boat should stay as part of her family home. Now it just seems like things are changing and Lis can't do anything to stop them. Alec meanwhile has been hired by a land developer to look into the abandoned homes now all over Cannonball Island in the hopes of making a tidy profit off of buying them, demolishing them and rebuilding something more large and extravagant in their place and his eyes are set primarily on the 22 acres of Driftwood Point.
I received Driftwood Point by Mariah Stewart compliments of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my personal and unbiased review. Coming back to St. Dennis has always been huge favorite of mine and this entire series would make for a great summer read. But trust me, while each can stand on its own, you won't know each of the resident's stories until you read them as they have moved or married within the town limits of St. Dennis. This is truly a charming and heart-warming series and one I am so excited to see whenever there is a new addition. By the way this one ends, looks like there is more in store for the residents of St. Dennis in the very near future. For me this one is another 5 out of 5 stars!
July 4, 2016
A few weeks ago I did a review for the latest Dorothea Benton Frank book and I said she was one of my absolute go-to authors for a really solid, beachy read. I have to be honest and tell you Mariah Stewart is my other. I don't feel like I've really started summer until I have read the latest from either and this one is possibly my favorite of the Chesapeake Diaries series by Mariah. The really great thing is that these are all stand alone novels but you get little visits from characters in previous books, which is always fun because it really does feel like bumping into old friends.
In this book we have Lisbeth, who has come back to Cannonball Island for a respite from her city life. She's staying with her great grandmother, who at a 100 years old is sharper than ever. Lis doesn't know how to feel about the changes to her great grandmother's store and living area, or the changes coming to St. Dennis and Cannonball Island, but it's clear that though she's visited over the years, there is a lot about the area that she knows nothing about. Which only confirms her lifelong feeling that she doesn't really belong, partly because her father held a grudge and raised her with prejudice against the people in the area.
Alec, who once was madly in love with Lis though she never gave him the time of day, still resides there and does his best to do right by the area. As a land developer, and local handyman, he knows just about everything going on and while it's in his best interest to develop the land, he knows that the charm of the area needs to remain intact. He rides the delicate line making both sides happy and often questions if he's doing the right thing.
And then of course, Lis and Alec come together in the romance part of the book and it's just really, really sweet. Lis isn't sure, and Alec doesn't know what's up her bottom but he thinks he can be the one to help her unwind and really appreciate what's around her. But of course, with the future of the island's development at stake, they find themselves on opposing sides of the issue just as things are heating up between them.
Overall? I really enjoyed it. I have really liked all of the books in this series so far but this one was such a fun read, it makes you think about land preservation but also the reality that things change with time. The other theme in it that I think was pretty subtle but done well was connecting with family. Lisbeth visits her great grandmother but she really doesn't know her routine, who she talks to, what her life is really like at her age. And I think that's something we can all say we're guilty of. We all have relatives that we visit or maybe we call on a holiday, send a birthday card, but we don't really know what their day to day is like. It's a real shame too, because as Lisbeth learns, these are the people who can tell you where you come from, this is where family traditions and stories are passed down and without those close connections, those are all lost eventually.
In this book we have Lisbeth, who has come back to Cannonball Island for a respite from her city life. She's staying with her great grandmother, who at a 100 years old is sharper than ever. Lis doesn't know how to feel about the changes to her great grandmother's store and living area, or the changes coming to St. Dennis and Cannonball Island, but it's clear that though she's visited over the years, there is a lot about the area that she knows nothing about. Which only confirms her lifelong feeling that she doesn't really belong, partly because her father held a grudge and raised her with prejudice against the people in the area.
Alec, who once was madly in love with Lis though she never gave him the time of day, still resides there and does his best to do right by the area. As a land developer, and local handyman, he knows just about everything going on and while it's in his best interest to develop the land, he knows that the charm of the area needs to remain intact. He rides the delicate line making both sides happy and often questions if he's doing the right thing.
And then of course, Lis and Alec come together in the romance part of the book and it's just really, really sweet. Lis isn't sure, and Alec doesn't know what's up her bottom but he thinks he can be the one to help her unwind and really appreciate what's around her. But of course, with the future of the island's development at stake, they find themselves on opposing sides of the issue just as things are heating up between them.
Overall? I really enjoyed it. I have really liked all of the books in this series so far but this one was such a fun read, it makes you think about land preservation but also the reality that things change with time. The other theme in it that I think was pretty subtle but done well was connecting with family. Lisbeth visits her great grandmother but she really doesn't know her routine, who she talks to, what her life is really like at her age. And I think that's something we can all say we're guilty of. We all have relatives that we visit or maybe we call on a holiday, send a birthday card, but we don't really know what their day to day is like. It's a real shame too, because as Lisbeth learns, these are the people who can tell you where you come from, this is where family traditions and stories are passed down and without those close connections, those are all lost eventually.
July 20, 2016
Dirftwood Point is the perfect summer vacation on the beach with friends. I know I certainly enjoyed my visit to St. Dennis and Cannonball Island. It was great to catch up with old friends and really great to make a few new friends.
Lisbeth Parker has came home to Cannonball Island to visit her Grandmother Ruby and show her beautiful work at the local gallery. Lis has not had an easy life and her father's beliefs made her life difficult. I really liked Lis and enjoyed watching her work her way through a crossroads in her life. She has been so busy with life in the big city and doesn't know what is missing from her life until her Grandmother Ruby ever so helpfully shows her a few things.
Now Ruby is one of those ladies that I would love to sit down and have a cup of tea with. This lovely lady is funny yet serious and has a way of pointing things out and direction her loved ones without really saying much of anything at all. I have a feeling Ruby could keep me entertained for hours with her stories and tales. I instantly adored Ruby and knew right away I was going to enjoy this story because she added such a special touch.
Alec Jansen is one of those guys that can do just about anything. He can turn a spare area into a living space, show the world what they should and shouldn't do to protect the environment on the island, and in Lisbeth's case, show her a taste of what her prom night could have been like if things had been different. Alec is a sweet guy that you can't help but fall for.
Mariah Stewart has created yet another compelling story with delightful characters with a setting that has it's own unique history. I was fascinated by the details of the history behind Cannonball island and how it had effected those on the island and those across the bridge in St. Dennis.
I relished my chance to catch up with all the folks from St. Dennis to see how every has been since my last visit. Never fear if this is your first visit to St. Dennis, Driftwood Point is part of The Chesapeake Dairies series but will stand on it's own just fine. I can not wait for my next visit. I know it will be yet another delectable read from the very talented Mariah Stewart.
I was given the opportunity to read this spectacular story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Driftwood Point.
Lisbeth Parker has came home to Cannonball Island to visit her Grandmother Ruby and show her beautiful work at the local gallery. Lis has not had an easy life and her father's beliefs made her life difficult. I really liked Lis and enjoyed watching her work her way through a crossroads in her life. She has been so busy with life in the big city and doesn't know what is missing from her life until her Grandmother Ruby ever so helpfully shows her a few things.
Now Ruby is one of those ladies that I would love to sit down and have a cup of tea with. This lovely lady is funny yet serious and has a way of pointing things out and direction her loved ones without really saying much of anything at all. I have a feeling Ruby could keep me entertained for hours with her stories and tales. I instantly adored Ruby and knew right away I was going to enjoy this story because she added such a special touch.
Alec Jansen is one of those guys that can do just about anything. He can turn a spare area into a living space, show the world what they should and shouldn't do to protect the environment on the island, and in Lisbeth's case, show her a taste of what her prom night could have been like if things had been different. Alec is a sweet guy that you can't help but fall for.
Mariah Stewart has created yet another compelling story with delightful characters with a setting that has it's own unique history. I was fascinated by the details of the history behind Cannonball island and how it had effected those on the island and those across the bridge in St. Dennis.
I relished my chance to catch up with all the folks from St. Dennis to see how every has been since my last visit. Never fear if this is your first visit to St. Dennis, Driftwood Point is part of The Chesapeake Dairies series but will stand on it's own just fine. I can not wait for my next visit. I know it will be yet another delectable read from the very talented Mariah Stewart.
I was given the opportunity to read this spectacular story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my great pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Driftwood Point.
August 4, 2016
Although I am a fan of Mariah Stewart, this book was just okay for me. It was missing something, and I am still unable to put my finger on exactly what was missing. I liked the characters, and I loved the relationship Lisbeth has with her brother.
A big complaint I have is that it felt like there were too many people in this book. It was like being introduced to everyone in the town all at once, even if they weren't important.
This was the first book I have read in the Chesapeake Diaries Series and since this is book 10, it may explain why I couldn't quite connect with the story. Because of that, I won't be holding this book against Ms. Stewart or her series and will hold off any final opinion on the series until I have read a few more.
A big complaint I have is that it felt like there were too many people in this book. It was like being introduced to everyone in the town all at once, even if they weren't important.
This was the first book I have read in the Chesapeake Diaries Series and since this is book 10, it may explain why I couldn't quite connect with the story. Because of that, I won't be holding this book against Ms. Stewart or her series and will hold off any final opinion on the series until I have read a few more.
June 24, 2016
Driftwood Point was the 10th book in Mariah Stewart's "Chesapeake Diaries Series". I thought this was to be the last one and was disappointed but when I mentioned this on the author's facebook page she wrote back that there will be one more coming up. Was delighted. Hate to see series end. These take place in a place called St. Dennis, a small town on the coast of Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay and they are just stories of the people who live there. Families, others discovering this great place and the relationships formed. Just pleasant reading.
June 29, 2016
I Love Mariah Stewart and I love the Chesapeake Diaries series. The characters are people you feel you know or wish you knew. The town sounds like a place you'd want to live. Lis and Alec meet again after years of being apart. Alec hasn't realized he'd been waiting for Lis to return. Lis finally gets a chance to know Alec because she wasn't allowed as a child. It's a great story of getting to know each other and learning how Cannonball Island will be changing.
I know I can't do it justice so just read the book and I know you'll love it. Can't want for her next one!
I know I can't do it justice so just read the book and I know you'll love it. Can't want for her next one!
August 6, 2016
It was nice to continue my visit to St. Dennis and be introduced to Cannonball Island. In this book the main love interests are Alec and Lis. I like how Mariah Stewart weaves characters from other books into her new books. I also like Grace and Ruby's "sense" about the future. I find it interesting how the author also gently introduces social issues in her stories. In this book the topic of coastal development is discussed. Can't wait to see what the next book brings, my guess is it is going to be about Owen.
May 28, 2022
Another great one I this series.
Mariah Stewart's Chesapeake Diaries series have all been such good reads, and now on to the next one that is waiting for me. Dearly love Grace and all her family and friends. These books are really difficult to put down.
Mariah Stewart's Chesapeake Diaries series have all been such good reads, and now on to the next one that is waiting for me. Dearly love Grace and all her family and friends. These books are really difficult to put down.
June 25, 2016
Fantastic
As all of the books in this series have been. You get caught up in the story and can not put it down until you have finished. Looking forward to the next one
As all of the books in this series have been. You get caught up in the story and can not put it down until you have finished. Looking forward to the next one
September 4, 2017
Love this series
I love the way ms Stewart brings in the characters of her other books in the series. It's like one big happy family. Small town living at it's best.
I love the way ms Stewart brings in the characters of her other books in the series. It's like one big happy family. Small town living at it's best.
May 7, 2017
There is something about the Chesapeake Diaries that I just find soothing to read, and this one was no different. Stewart does such an amazing job of painting the town of St Dennis (and in this case, Cannonball Island) that I feel almost transported. If I don't exactly feel I'm there, I feel I have been there and I'm now remembering times with old friends even as I meet new ones. This story actually introduces us to two new members of the community--Alec and Lisbeth. Lisbeth grew up with all the familiar faces from St Dennis, but as a resident of Cannonball Island, she was always a little apart. But now she's all grown up and her father is gone and there is nothing to dampen her love of the island or of the nearby St Dennis residents (including her high school crush, Alec!). I like that Stewart spends a lot of time building their relationship and trust. We get to know them as they get to know each other. And then when the inevitable rift comes, she's able to go through it quickly because of the foundation that's already been laid between the two. I look forward to seeing more of the Island characters as she continues to expand the series.
August 24, 2017
The sun sets on the Chesapeake Diaries, New York Times bestselling author Mariah Stewart’s cherished series based on Maryland’s picturesque eastern shore, with this romantic tale of a man who takes a second chance on love with the high school crush who broke his heart.
Up-and-coming artist Lisbeth Parker finally has a chance to show the folks back home what it means to leave Cannonball Island and make something of yourself. As a native whose stubborn father forbade her from befriending townies, Lis always felt like an outsider in St. Dennis. So while her work is on display in the local art gallery, she records her ailing centenarian great-grandmother’s stories of the island’s rich history and spearheads a fight for its survival.
Lis was Alec Jansen’s secret dream girl growing up, even after she flat-out refused to be his prom date. Now the handsome environmental engineer and the whip-smart beauty are on opposite sides of a debate over the island’s future. Hired to prove that developing the shore will have little impact on the area’s natural integrity and huge gains for its economy, Alec is determined to change his alluring, headstrong rival’s mind—and to win her heart
Up-and-coming artist Lisbeth Parker finally has a chance to show the folks back home what it means to leave Cannonball Island and make something of yourself. As a native whose stubborn father forbade her from befriending townies, Lis always felt like an outsider in St. Dennis. So while her work is on display in the local art gallery, she records her ailing centenarian great-grandmother’s stories of the island’s rich history and spearheads a fight for its survival.
Lis was Alec Jansen’s secret dream girl growing up, even after she flat-out refused to be his prom date. Now the handsome environmental engineer and the whip-smart beauty are on opposite sides of a debate over the island’s future. Hired to prove that developing the shore will have little impact on the area’s natural integrity and huge gains for its economy, Alec is determined to change his alluring, headstrong rival’s mind—and to win her heart
March 3, 2021
I’m not usually a fan of romance novels - they’re so predictable, but I liked how Lisbeth stood up for what she wanted and never backed down. It was nice to see Gigi and Lisbeth’s relationship, but the island speak of the elderly people on Cannonball Island got on my last nerve. Gigi was pretty cruel when she said that it was for the best that Jack died early in life and it was sad that she outlived all 8 of her children. It was nice that Owen went back to Cannonball Island for a while. It was nice to see Jason and Sophie get married at Blossoms. It was nice that Gigi and Harold’s cottage could be restored for Lisbeth and Alec and I liked how he proposed with Carole’s engagement ring at the cottage at Driftwood Point - that was a special, sweet touch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2019
I adored listening to this series until I got to this one. Lisbeth is a horrible person. Constantly assuming the worst, not trusting those who have never done anything to deserve her ire and basically being a totally unlikable person. I cannot figure out what Alec, an otherwise nice guy sees in her other than history and possibly some brain injury. Totally ridiculous and had I paid for this I would want a refund.
April 5, 2018
I read this book out of order but it did not make much difference. This is the story of Lisbeth and Alec. Both have carried a longing for each other since school but never acted on it. Now Lis is back in St. Dennis and they meet up again. Very good story with likable characters. I think my favorite is Ruby or Gigi as she is call by her great-grandchildren, Would recommend as a good read.
December 2, 2019
Library Request. I would say overall good book, was very Hallmark Romance though, I wouldn’t call a beach read either, it was just a nice book with nice true blue characters, that I thought were maybe a bit too nice, if that’s possible, there was no angst no real bitter breakups or makeup sex, it was just to huckleberry for my reads.
January 21, 2021
I read this series, in order, over the past month or so, through the lonely holidays in 'Covid 19 world'. It is a wonderful series-- 12 books each with a lovely romance, some mystery and magic. The characters are great and each story has its own theme, if you will, which made them so interesting as new friends were introduced to others in their small town on the beautiful Chesapeake.
March 9, 2022
I thought this was one of he best in the series. I have enjoyed the blending of all the characters and their families. This book gave a lot of history which I am interested in. I look forward to th next one. I enjoy the diary entries, the spirit help Grace is given and the goodness of the characters helping and supporting each other like a real town.
June 3, 2025
Driftwood Point
I love this series. It's fun and romantic with a little angst thrown in from time to time. Lisbeth and Alec were so sweet and perfect. Just fell right into each other's arms from the first day Lis arrived. He did try ignoring her at first but didn't work out for him. Lol it was a good fast read and I loved it.
I love this series. It's fun and romantic with a little angst thrown in from time to time. Lisbeth and Alec were so sweet and perfect. Just fell right into each other's arms from the first day Lis arrived. He did try ignoring her at first but didn't work out for him. Lol it was a good fast read and I loved it.
February 5, 2018
I've loved this series. The location is as much a part of the stories as the characters are.
I thought it was so romantic that Alec saved the old house just because Lisbeth loved it so much. It would have been less effort to knock it down and start over.
I thought it was so romantic that Alec saved the old house just because Lisbeth loved it so much. It would have been less effort to knock it down and start over.
February 15, 2018
A quick and easy read. While all of the books in this series are cookie cutter, this one seemed more direct, less drawn out. Continues to connect back to all the other books in the series. These books are are a nice escape from the daily stressors of the world.
February 26, 2020
Lis came back to St Dennis after a "breakup" to visit with her great grandmother and for r and r but met up with her old flame. This really was a good and relaxing and fun read and looking forward to more stories like this.
June 1, 2017
Not as interesting as several of the others, but good.
August 30, 2017
4.5 stars I really liked this one. Learned more intimate details about
cannonball island and it's inhabitants and why they separated them selves from the townies.
cannonball island and it's inhabitants and why they separated them selves from the townies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews