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Beachside Bay #1
The Beachside Sweet Shop
Chocolate fudge, butterscotch and raspberry bonbons... treat yourself to some sugary treats, a big slice of friendship and a sprinkling of romance at The Beachside Sweet Shop.
When Marnie Appleton inherited a sweet shop from her grandfather she was determined to do his legacy proud. The shop has been a much-loved feature of the little seaside town of Shipley for years, but now Marnie needs to bring it up to date, and she's recruited gorgeous new assistant Josh to help.
Marnie gets busy redecorating the shop and choosing delicious new sweets to stock, but things are never that simple: new neighbour Isobel, a fame-hungry blogger, is on a crusade against sugar, and she'll go to any lengths to secure bad publicity for Marnie's shop.
Marnie fights back with homemade sugar-free treats, but with her best friend Beth heavily pregnant, her grandmother Celia recovering from an operation, and her very recently ex-boyfriend Alex returning to Shipley with a new love, Marnie has a lot on her plate.
And then there's Josh, with whom Marnie is struggling to keep her relationship strictly professional...Will both the sweet shop and love flourish?
A deliciously heartwarming read about family, friends and handmade coconut ice. Perfect for fans of Cressida McLaughlin, Debbie Johnson, and Tilly Tennant.
When Marnie Appleton inherited a sweet shop from her grandfather she was determined to do his legacy proud. The shop has been a much-loved feature of the little seaside town of Shipley for years, but now Marnie needs to bring it up to date, and she's recruited gorgeous new assistant Josh to help.
Marnie gets busy redecorating the shop and choosing delicious new sweets to stock, but things are never that simple: new neighbour Isobel, a fame-hungry blogger, is on a crusade against sugar, and she'll go to any lengths to secure bad publicity for Marnie's shop.
Marnie fights back with homemade sugar-free treats, but with her best friend Beth heavily pregnant, her grandmother Celia recovering from an operation, and her very recently ex-boyfriend Alex returning to Shipley with a new love, Marnie has a lot on her plate.
And then there's Josh, with whom Marnie is struggling to keep her relationship strictly professional...Will both the sweet shop and love flourish?
A deliciously heartwarming read about family, friends and handmade coconut ice. Perfect for fans of Cressida McLaughlin, Debbie Johnson, and Tilly Tennant.
310 pages, Paperback
Published March 7, 2018
402 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Karen Clarke
46 books290 followersI live in Buckinghamshire with my husband and three grown-up children where I write psychological thrillers for HQDigital/HarperCollins and romantic comedy novels published by Bookouture.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
March 3, 2017
I simply loved everything about this book and I urge everyone to read it. It is such a fun filled happy read. With lots of fantastic characters. Picturesque scenery. Great storyline and plenty of sweets. Loved it.
March 8, 2017
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a delicious delightful story about the trials and tribulations of a traditional sweet shop that has been owned by the same family for generations. Set in a close-knit seaside community, will this sweet shop survive the changing times?
Comedy romances aren’t really my thing, but as far as this one goes, it was a fun and enjoyable read. If I’m completely honest, I was tempted by the sweet cover, because despite not really having a sweet tooth, I couldn’t resist the temptation of experiencing the nostalgia of an old fashioned sweet shop.
I loved the setting of this story. I live in a tiny hamlet in West Cornwall, where most neighbours are seen as friends, and we all look out for each other. I feel blessed to have such caring neighbours, and that really helped me fall in love with the town and its people in this book. There is a great mix of characters within this story, some more likeable than others.
This is an overall feel good tale of love and friendship that will have you giggling in places. I’m now really looking forward to the next book, which is called The Beachside Flower Stall, as I love flowers.
I’ve discovered that I seem to have a thing for aniseed flavour, as the first sweets that came to mind while reading this book were Aniseed Balls, Cough Candy Twists, Black Jacks, and those pink and blue Spogs. Those were definitely all my favourites.
I did like others too, but I have less pleasant associations with them, like loving the flavour of Cola Cubes, but the corners hurting the roof of my tiny mouth (not so bad when I had braces on my teeth though). I liked the yellow and pink Bon Bons, but they would always end up sticking my teeth together. Finally, I ate loads of Pear Drops as a child, as my parents often had them in the car, and they would help me with my severe travel sickness. But I remember one time when my dad braked, due to us arriving at our destination, and me unexpectedly swallowing a Pear Drop whole *ouch*. I was very careful with Pear Drops after that day!
So, if you’ve made it this far reading my review, I’m curious what your favourite traditional sweets were when you were a child?
Comedy romances aren’t really my thing, but as far as this one goes, it was a fun and enjoyable read. If I’m completely honest, I was tempted by the sweet cover, because despite not really having a sweet tooth, I couldn’t resist the temptation of experiencing the nostalgia of an old fashioned sweet shop.
I loved the setting of this story. I live in a tiny hamlet in West Cornwall, where most neighbours are seen as friends, and we all look out for each other. I feel blessed to have such caring neighbours, and that really helped me fall in love with the town and its people in this book. There is a great mix of characters within this story, some more likeable than others.
This is an overall feel good tale of love and friendship that will have you giggling in places. I’m now really looking forward to the next book, which is called The Beachside Flower Stall, as I love flowers.
I’ve discovered that I seem to have a thing for aniseed flavour, as the first sweets that came to mind while reading this book were Aniseed Balls, Cough Candy Twists, Black Jacks, and those pink and blue Spogs. Those were definitely all my favourites.
I did like others too, but I have less pleasant associations with them, like loving the flavour of Cola Cubes, but the corners hurting the roof of my tiny mouth (not so bad when I had braces on my teeth though). I liked the yellow and pink Bon Bons, but they would always end up sticking my teeth together. Finally, I ate loads of Pear Drops as a child, as my parents often had them in the car, and they would help me with my severe travel sickness. But I remember one time when my dad braked, due to us arriving at our destination, and me unexpectedly swallowing a Pear Drop whole *ouch*. I was very careful with Pear Drops after that day!
So, if you’ve made it this far reading my review, I’m curious what your favourite traditional sweets were when you were a child?
February 21, 2017
Marnie Appleton inherited the sweet shop from her Grandfather. The shop needs to be brought up to dates or she employs Josh, a handsome addition, to help. She also has a new neighbour, Isobel, who's a fame hungry blogger, who is on a crusade against sugar. With her ex boyfriend returning with a new love, Marnie has a lot to cope with.
This is a light hearted, feel good love story. One to read on the beach when on holiday.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Karen Clarke for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a light hearted, feel good love story. One to read on the beach when on holiday.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Karen Clarke for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
Isn’t this cover the most adorable thing you’ve ever seen?! It’s just lovely, and let me tell you the inside is even lovelier. I adored this book, it was an easy, breezy read with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Be forewarned though, if you have a sweet tooth this will make you send your husband out for some candy. Or so I hear…
Marnie was such a delight, she’s almost thirty and single having separated from her boyfriend a year ago when he moved to New York and she stayed home to take care of her grandma. Don’t actually call her a grandma though, she goes by Celia only and was she ever a riot! All of the characters in this one were a hoot, Marnie finds herself in hysterical situations quite often, and her best friend Beth is exactly the type of friend every girl wants. There’s also loads of other charming secondary characters but I have to make special mention of Josh, the new arrival to town who winds up working for Marnie. I don’t often develop a crush on a fictional character but this guy was absolutely swoon worthy, I may have fallen a little bit in love with him by the end. Every resident of Shipley brings something unique and appealing to the table and the town gossip, Doris Day made me howl with laughter as did newbie Isobel a yummy mummy and blogger.
This book is special, a real breath of fresh air. The setting was quaint and charming, (it’s set in a seaside town in a candy shop, it doesn’t get more precious than that!) the writing was humorous and lighthearted, and the story itself was cute and endearing. It felt like I was on a mini vacation and one that I didn’t want to end. Luckily for me, the second book in the series is available next month! If you’re having a bad day and need a pick me up I promise that this one will make you laugh and leave you with a smile on your face.
Isn’t this cover the most adorable thing you’ve ever seen?! It’s just lovely, and let me tell you the inside is even lovelier. I adored this book, it was an easy, breezy read with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Be forewarned though, if you have a sweet tooth this will make you send your husband out for some candy. Or so I hear…
Marnie was such a delight, she’s almost thirty and single having separated from her boyfriend a year ago when he moved to New York and she stayed home to take care of her grandma. Don’t actually call her a grandma though, she goes by Celia only and was she ever a riot! All of the characters in this one were a hoot, Marnie finds herself in hysterical situations quite often, and her best friend Beth is exactly the type of friend every girl wants. There’s also loads of other charming secondary characters but I have to make special mention of Josh, the new arrival to town who winds up working for Marnie. I don’t often develop a crush on a fictional character but this guy was absolutely swoon worthy, I may have fallen a little bit in love with him by the end. Every resident of Shipley brings something unique and appealing to the table and the town gossip, Doris Day made me howl with laughter as did newbie Isobel a yummy mummy and blogger.
This book is special, a real breath of fresh air. The setting was quaint and charming, (it’s set in a seaside town in a candy shop, it doesn’t get more precious than that!) the writing was humorous and lighthearted, and the story itself was cute and endearing. It felt like I was on a mini vacation and one that I didn’t want to end. Luckily for me, the second book in the series is available next month! If you’re having a bad day and need a pick me up I promise that this one will make you laugh and leave you with a smile on your face.
January 27, 2018
The Beachside Sweet Shop came at the perfect time for me after a few disappointing reads of late I wanted to read a book from a genre that very rarely leaves me disappointed. There was a time when I found it annoying where every other Women’s Fiction novel centred around a business in a perfect location however they have became some of my favourite books to read.
The main character Marnie Appleton who has been running her grandfather’s sweet shop in Shipley for the past two years. I don’t want to give too much of the story away except to say that Marnie longs to escape from Shipley and her little sweet shop is about to become the most talked about business in the area for good and bad reasons. This book is a hugely entertaining read with lots of laugh out loud moments thanks to Marnie’s ditziness at times and some great comedic writing by Karen Clarke. I’m not sure this book was completely ideal for me, I have lost 1 stone so far this month with Slimming World and so it was agonising the read about some delicious sweets at times, but I still nonetheless loved the story.
I loved the setting of Shipley. We used to stay at a caravan park in Wareham when I was younger and I could easily visualise the places being described, to the point where I wished it was real and that I could stay in the guesthouse and visit the sweet shop. The cast is well-imagined and there’s some truly fantastic and memorable characters here to meet. One of my favourites was an elderly neighbour by the name of Doris Day (I adore the real Doris Day) and she couldn’t have been more different. She was hilarious and I think most people will know somebody like her especially those who live in a small community.
Books such as this do follow a certain formula so I’m not going to say that it was the most interesting or unique story in the world, it was obvious that Marnie would eventually get her happy ever after however the story was very much a learning curve for Marnie, I think it allowed her to come out of her shell a lot and ultimately helped her to decide what she truly wanted out of life. With two (sort of) love interests in the story, it was obvious where it would eventually end for Marnie but this didn’t detract from the enjoyment I felt because by this point I really liked Marnie and was rooting for her to find that happiness.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is such a feel-good read that I can’t imagine most readers not loving this story too. I’m excited about the fact that the setting of Shipley has featured in more books (however I’m not sure reading about a flower stall will be half as much fun as a sweet shop) and so I am looking forward to reading more from Karen Clarke and Shipley.
The main character Marnie Appleton who has been running her grandfather’s sweet shop in Shipley for the past two years. I don’t want to give too much of the story away except to say that Marnie longs to escape from Shipley and her little sweet shop is about to become the most talked about business in the area for good and bad reasons. This book is a hugely entertaining read with lots of laugh out loud moments thanks to Marnie’s ditziness at times and some great comedic writing by Karen Clarke. I’m not sure this book was completely ideal for me, I have lost 1 stone so far this month with Slimming World and so it was agonising the read about some delicious sweets at times, but I still nonetheless loved the story.
I loved the setting of Shipley. We used to stay at a caravan park in Wareham when I was younger and I could easily visualise the places being described, to the point where I wished it was real and that I could stay in the guesthouse and visit the sweet shop. The cast is well-imagined and there’s some truly fantastic and memorable characters here to meet. One of my favourites was an elderly neighbour by the name of Doris Day (I adore the real Doris Day) and she couldn’t have been more different. She was hilarious and I think most people will know somebody like her especially those who live in a small community.
Books such as this do follow a certain formula so I’m not going to say that it was the most interesting or unique story in the world, it was obvious that Marnie would eventually get her happy ever after however the story was very much a learning curve for Marnie, I think it allowed her to come out of her shell a lot and ultimately helped her to decide what she truly wanted out of life. With two (sort of) love interests in the story, it was obvious where it would eventually end for Marnie but this didn’t detract from the enjoyment I felt because by this point I really liked Marnie and was rooting for her to find that happiness.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is such a feel-good read that I can’t imagine most readers not loving this story too. I’m excited about the fact that the setting of Shipley has featured in more books (however I’m not sure reading about a flower stall will be half as much fun as a sweet shop) and so I am looking forward to reading more from Karen Clarke and Shipley.
March 28, 2017
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a book with one of my dream jobs. It’s probably a good thing that I don’t actually work in a sweet shop as don’t think my waist line would be happy with me and I would probably gobble all the profits!
This is one of those novels that you just melt into. As soon as I picked it up before I knew it I had nearly finished it. I was so wrapped up in Marnie’s life I was actually very sad when it came to the end.
Marnie I loved. She is a great character. Her love life hasn’t quite gone to plan and she has itchy feet wanting to move on and see the rest of the world. She feels very tied to the family business though and doesn’t seem to be able to cut the ties.
There is a great selection of characters in the story. Some not so nice, some you warm to over the story and others that you take to straight from the start. I loved the whole story line and really enjoyed that I was wrong in how it was all going to end. The author certainly keeps a few surprises up her sleeve and it is far from your stereo typical read in it’s genre. The author for me gives it a bit more of an edge and it felt very much a modern and up to date read in today’s world.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a fizzy, sweet, tingling kind of read. It’s like a chunk of chocolate that you leave on your tongue that melts and makes you feel all snug and lovely inside. Totally loved it and can’t wait to read more by the author.
This is one of those novels that you just melt into. As soon as I picked it up before I knew it I had nearly finished it. I was so wrapped up in Marnie’s life I was actually very sad when it came to the end.
Marnie I loved. She is a great character. Her love life hasn’t quite gone to plan and she has itchy feet wanting to move on and see the rest of the world. She feels very tied to the family business though and doesn’t seem to be able to cut the ties.
There is a great selection of characters in the story. Some not so nice, some you warm to over the story and others that you take to straight from the start. I loved the whole story line and really enjoyed that I was wrong in how it was all going to end. The author certainly keeps a few surprises up her sleeve and it is far from your stereo typical read in it’s genre. The author for me gives it a bit more of an edge and it felt very much a modern and up to date read in today’s world.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a fizzy, sweet, tingling kind of read. It’s like a chunk of chocolate that you leave on your tongue that melts and makes you feel all snug and lovely inside. Totally loved it and can’t wait to read more by the author.
February 11, 2017
Every now and then, you read the perfect book for your current mood, at just the right time, and for me The Beachside Sweet Shop was one such book. I had struggled with my previous read a bit, and starting to wonder if with new stresses on my time, whether I could still sit and devour a book in a relatively short time, and thankfully I picked The Beachside Sweet Shop. It has completely put my mind to rest, and at the same time provided me with a wonderfully enjoyable story, and a whole new seaside town to fall in love with.
I knew this was going to be the right sort of book for my me, when within the first page turn I was laughing out loud, in fact the opening exchanges between Marnie and her sweet supplier, set the tone for this book, as light hearted, and not afraid to make jokes.
As you may have guessed a lot of the action in this book is centred around Marnie's sweetshop. Although I have a sweet tooth I've always been more of a chocolate than sweet person, so thankfully I didn't get too hungry while reading, however if you love your sweets than I suggest you get a bag of them to nibble on while reading.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a rather olde-world style shop, designed to remind people of their childhoods, it serves sweets in imperial measurements, and even has a pick and mix section. Marnie hasn't really made many changes to the shop since taking it over two years ago after her beloved grandfather's death. She isn't even sure she wasn't to still be in Shipley, running a sweet shop, and is determined to leave it all behind one day to satisfy her wanderlust.
Despite winning a local business award, things aren't smooth sailing for Marnie, as she attracts the attention of new neighbour Isobel. Isobel is a blogger who hopes to get a book deal and decides that campaigning against sweet shops will get her one. She is determined to rid Shipley of its sweet shop and then take them on elsewhere.
At the same time Marnie also acquired a new shop assistant, a gorgeous skateboarding dude, who also does close up magic, and seems to know his way around a sweet shop. She doesn't know much about Josh but he seems like a nice guy and he did help her out of a bit of a bind.
I really enjoyed reading Marnie's story, her friendship with Beth, all about Marnie's family, and of course the campaign involving the sweet shop. There is one memorable and funny scene involving Marnie and Coconut Ice, that really attacked my funny bone!
The Beachside Sweet Shop is an easy to read book, with some wonderful characters, including busybody neighbour - Doris Day, some delicious sweets, potential for romance and plenty of laughs. It was a delight to read and I am already looking forward to returning to Shipley in The Beachside Flower Stall.
Thank you so much to Bookouture and Netgalley for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I knew this was going to be the right sort of book for my me, when within the first page turn I was laughing out loud, in fact the opening exchanges between Marnie and her sweet supplier, set the tone for this book, as light hearted, and not afraid to make jokes.
As you may have guessed a lot of the action in this book is centred around Marnie's sweetshop. Although I have a sweet tooth I've always been more of a chocolate than sweet person, so thankfully I didn't get too hungry while reading, however if you love your sweets than I suggest you get a bag of them to nibble on while reading.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a rather olde-world style shop, designed to remind people of their childhoods, it serves sweets in imperial measurements, and even has a pick and mix section. Marnie hasn't really made many changes to the shop since taking it over two years ago after her beloved grandfather's death. She isn't even sure she wasn't to still be in Shipley, running a sweet shop, and is determined to leave it all behind one day to satisfy her wanderlust.
Despite winning a local business award, things aren't smooth sailing for Marnie, as she attracts the attention of new neighbour Isobel. Isobel is a blogger who hopes to get a book deal and decides that campaigning against sweet shops will get her one. She is determined to rid Shipley of its sweet shop and then take them on elsewhere.
At the same time Marnie also acquired a new shop assistant, a gorgeous skateboarding dude, who also does close up magic, and seems to know his way around a sweet shop. She doesn't know much about Josh but he seems like a nice guy and he did help her out of a bit of a bind.
I really enjoyed reading Marnie's story, her friendship with Beth, all about Marnie's family, and of course the campaign involving the sweet shop. There is one memorable and funny scene involving Marnie and Coconut Ice, that really attacked my funny bone!
The Beachside Sweet Shop is an easy to read book, with some wonderful characters, including busybody neighbour - Doris Day, some delicious sweets, potential for romance and plenty of laughs. It was a delight to read and I am already looking forward to returning to Shipley in The Beachside Flower Stall.
Thank you so much to Bookouture and Netgalley for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 1, 2017
From the very start this delightful story had me laughing out loud. It starts with Marnie Appleton coping with a salesman trying to sell her his new sweet products - the hilarious banter and imagery are just right to put a big smile on your face! It is a 'sweet' fun filled read, with great characters, plenty of surprises and set in the seaside community of Shipley. Marnie inherited the sweet shop a couple of years ago after her grandfather’s death, though she’s dreamed of going off to explore the wider world she’s determined to keep the family business succeeding. However, with a blogging neighbour crusading against people eating sugary products, her ex-boyfriend returning with a new girlfriend, her best friend and shop assistant about to give birth and her grandmother recovering from an operation, there’s lots going on in Marnie’s life and, even though the business has won a prestigious award, the shop need bringing up to date to survive. The pressure is on - can Marnie help the business survive and find time for love and romance in her own life?
This is a lovely, light-hearted read that is a real tonic, it truly is a brilliant feel-good romantic comedy . Whether you’re looking for something to read on the beach or something to help you dream of relaxing at the seaside, it is sure to put a smile on your face. My only advice is be prepared for great laugh out loud moments as you enjoy this well crafted, sweet story served with an added dose of romance! I look forward to future visits to Shipley in other stories in this series, I'll definitely be looking out for them :)
I requested and received a copy of this story via NetGalley and this is my honest review after reading it.
This is a lovely, light-hearted read that is a real tonic, it truly is a brilliant feel-good romantic comedy . Whether you’re looking for something to read on the beach or something to help you dream of relaxing at the seaside, it is sure to put a smile on your face. My only advice is be prepared for great laugh out loud moments as you enjoy this well crafted, sweet story served with an added dose of romance! I look forward to future visits to Shipley in other stories in this series, I'll definitely be looking out for them :)
I requested and received a copy of this story via NetGalley and this is my honest review after reading it.
February 3, 2017
I wanted to love this book. A book about a sweet shop sounded like heaven, especially as I have first hand knowledge of a sweet shop, but the more I read, the more infuriated I got. You ever get that feeling a book just wasn't for you? That's how I felt about this one. I thought it would be, I thought it would be fantastic, and I'd be able to nod along with all the anecdotes (to be fair, I could agree with a few of them mind) but Marnie was so incredibly frustrating as a character. If she didn't want to be in Shipley, why didn't she bloody well leave? Instead that's all I heard; how frustrated she was, how she didn't want to be there, how everyone in her life had decided to die or break their leg so she just HAD to stay. It was obviously all an act, though she got furious when it was pointed out. THEN! Just when she had decided to go travelling she became furious at people making plans for the sweet shop. I felt like I had whiplash. I just wanted to shake some sense into her and tell her to stop acting so childish.
Another thing that baffles me, is that Marnie broke up her relationship - her boyfriend left for New York without her, because she couldn't go because of the reasons I said above (death/broken legs etc) yet she still pines for him. I forget his name. Alex? Andrew? I feel like it's Alex, but I could be wrong, because he was a bit forgettable. You broke up with him! You have no right to feel aggrieved if he moves on! What, you don't want him but no one else can have him? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? *Rages* I understand there will still be emotions there, and she obviously only broke up with him so she could set him free, blah blah blah, but that still gives you no right to be furious that he's moved on, WHEN YOU TOLD HIM TO GO.
You're probably wondering why I gave this book three stars, since I haven't yet had a good word to say: BETH AND JOSH. Beth was a fantastic best friend, with a good quip ready whenever it was needed and it made me sad she was shoved into a corner, so Josh could shine. Not because I didn't like Josh - I LOVED Josh. He was fantastic. But I felt like poor Beth got pushed to one side and could have been utilised so much more. She was incredible. Like I said, so was Josh. Josh was by far the best thing about this book (although Marnie's grandmother Celia comes a close second and Chester the dog a close third). He lit the book up, he brought a spark and I cannot for the life of me understand why
I genuinely wanted to love this book, I really did, but it just frustrated me to an unreal level. Marnie was so wishy-washy, unable to make a decision, unable to deal with this awful blogger woman who was intent on ruining her business (because bored yummy mummies do that???? They picket businesses because sweet shops are just hell on Earth basically?? Forgetting that eh Tesco and Asda and any other supermarket in the world PLUS the newsagents that was down the road, also sells sugar-filled sweets???) and I just wanted her to have a bit of gumption, a bit of spark, if you're not happy in your life, change it. It's simple. You don't want to run a sweet shop - sell it. She seemingly had enough money to travel for the rest of her life, so go for it if that's what you want. But MAKE. A. DECISION. I am not a fan of characters who hide behind other reasons for not doing stuff.
I've become far too critical of the genre I once devoured. If I had read this five years ago I would have loved it, without picking up on any flaws (except the Josh thing, that will have always have bugged me). It would have been a fantastic read, but it's the kind of book I've read time and time again. I've said it before on social media, I hate reading about people who hate their home towns, as if they're the worst places in the world, as if the grass really is greener on the other side - it isn't - no matter where you go in life, it's all the same: work, home, work, home, work home. That's life in Shipley or New York - you can't survive on fresh air.
I appear to have run out of steam. TL;DR? There were bits I liked, genuinely, but it is the bits I didn't like dominating my review, so *shrugs* what can ya do? I felt how I felt.
Another thing that baffles me, is that Marnie broke up her relationship - her boyfriend left for New York without her, because she couldn't go because of the reasons I said above (death/broken legs etc) yet she still pines for him. I forget his name. Alex? Andrew? I feel like it's Alex, but I could be wrong, because he was a bit forgettable. You broke up with him! You have no right to feel aggrieved if he moves on! What, you don't want him but no one else can have him? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? *Rages* I understand there will still be emotions there, and she obviously only broke up with him so she could set him free, blah blah blah, but that still gives you no right to be furious that he's moved on, WHEN YOU TOLD HIM TO GO.
You're probably wondering why I gave this book three stars, since I haven't yet had a good word to say: BETH AND JOSH. Beth was a fantastic best friend, with a good quip ready whenever it was needed and it made me sad she was shoved into a corner, so Josh could shine. Not because I didn't like Josh - I LOVED Josh. He was fantastic. But I felt like poor Beth got pushed to one side and could have been utilised so much more. She was incredible. Like I said, so was Josh. Josh was by far the best thing about this book (although Marnie's grandmother Celia comes a close second and Chester the dog a close third). He lit the book up, he brought a spark and I cannot for the life of me understand why
I genuinely wanted to love this book, I really did, but it just frustrated me to an unreal level. Marnie was so wishy-washy, unable to make a decision, unable to deal with this awful blogger woman who was intent on ruining her business (because bored yummy mummies do that???? They picket businesses because sweet shops are just hell on Earth basically?? Forgetting that eh Tesco and Asda and any other supermarket in the world PLUS the newsagents that was down the road, also sells sugar-filled sweets???) and I just wanted her to have a bit of gumption, a bit of spark, if you're not happy in your life, change it. It's simple. You don't want to run a sweet shop - sell it. She seemingly had enough money to travel for the rest of her life, so go for it if that's what you want. But MAKE. A. DECISION. I am not a fan of characters who hide behind other reasons for not doing stuff.
I've become far too critical of the genre I once devoured. If I had read this five years ago I would have loved it, without picking up on any flaws (except the Josh thing, that will have always have bugged me). It would have been a fantastic read, but it's the kind of book I've read time and time again. I've said it before on social media, I hate reading about people who hate their home towns, as if they're the worst places in the world, as if the grass really is greener on the other side - it isn't - no matter where you go in life, it's all the same: work, home, work, home, work home. That's life in Shipley or New York - you can't survive on fresh air.
I appear to have run out of steam. TL;DR? There were bits I liked, genuinely, but it is the bits I didn't like dominating my review, so *shrugs* what can ya do? I felt how I felt.
March 1, 2017
Not only does Bookouture put out fantastic thrillers, but they also hit the bulls-eye in the rom-com department as well. Not usually my go-to genre, but who doesn't like a light hearted, fun read to cleanse that palate?
Marnie has inherited her grandfather's candy store. Her best friend enters the shop into a contest (unknowingly to Marnie) and they win! She decides to take that money and update the shop but a catty neighbor decides to wage war against sugar, the candy shop and Marnie resulting in some new decision making on Marnie's part with the help of Josh, the hunky new younger man she hired on a whim.
Equally funny, heart warming and entertaining, this book reads like a Hallmark or Lifetime movie - and quite frankly, these are my guilty pleasures. Marnie is a clumsy delight and I would absolutely be friends with her. You pretty much know where the book is going and what the outcomes will be but the ride is fun so I suggest you pick up the book and go along with it.
Marnie has inherited her grandfather's candy store. Her best friend enters the shop into a contest (unknowingly to Marnie) and they win! She decides to take that money and update the shop but a catty neighbor decides to wage war against sugar, the candy shop and Marnie resulting in some new decision making on Marnie's part with the help of Josh, the hunky new younger man she hired on a whim.
Equally funny, heart warming and entertaining, this book reads like a Hallmark or Lifetime movie - and quite frankly, these are my guilty pleasures. Marnie is a clumsy delight and I would absolutely be friends with her. You pretty much know where the book is going and what the outcomes will be but the ride is fun so I suggest you pick up the book and go along with it.
February 16, 2017
Marnie inherited her grandfather's sweet shop and she was determined to do his legacy proud. She works with her best friend Beth. Marnie is about to make changes in the shop with recently won money, for which she has to thank her best friend. The shop has been looking the same since she took over and it really needs a fresher look. Marnie's best friend is pregnant and can't work for her anymore, there's a need for a new assistant. Just when you she needs it the most, a young man Josh comes to the rescue and turns out to be a great assistant. Marnie is trying to get over her ex boyfriend and Josh seems to be the right guy. There's a lot going on in Marnie's life, especially all that revolves around the shop and her family. Marnie misses her ex boyfriend Alex, but also feels attracted to Josh, who wins Marnie's heart?
I enjoyed reading this book, there was always something going on that made it easy to keep the eyes glued to the pages. There was a great amount of friendship, family relations and love. Reading about all these sweets makes you crave for something too. I really liked the idea about the home made sweets and those made my mouth water way more than the regular sweets. It was a great first book and I can't wait to read the next.
I enjoyed reading this book, there was always something going on that made it easy to keep the eyes glued to the pages. There was a great amount of friendship, family relations and love. Reading about all these sweets makes you crave for something too. I really liked the idea about the home made sweets and those made my mouth water way more than the regular sweets. It was a great first book and I can't wait to read the next.
February 28, 2017
As soon as I spotted "The Beachside Sweet Shop" on NetGalley I was immediately drawn to it - this cover is adorably gorgeous and even though I am more a chocolate girl myself only looking at this glass filled with candies makes my mouth water. Yes, I had some doubts before I started reading it as I was scared that it's going to be the next in the popular formula of books set at the seaside and in a sweet shop with nothing more to offer, but no worries, guys - it turned out to be a hilarious, light - hearted, wonderfully enjoyable story that will allow you to put your mind to rest.
There is a lot going on in Marnie's life, especially when the shop is considered. Winning the prize (because the shop has won a prize for the best local business!), instead of bringing joy, brings commotion and troubles, as one of the new neighbours, ex - model, starts a campaign against sweet shop and sugar in general. Then Marnie looks after her grandmother who has broken her leg, and this accident has actually made Marnie to break up with her boyfriend Alex, but our Marnie - of course - still has feelings to Alex. But did Alex move on in New York or is he still waiting for Marnie? Then there are troubles with the regular supplier of the sweets, and Marnie's best friend Beth, who also helps at the shop is heavily pregnant so she is in a need for a substitute, and then suddenly the gorgeous Josh appears, and does Marnie feel attracted to him? You see what I mean, right? Not a single flat moment, and this all topped with brilliant one - liners and fantastic sense of humour.
The characters were larger than life and so colourful, and it was so easy to fell in love with them. Josh is not only a skateboarding sexy god but he also does magic, ha! There is also Doris Day, a wannabe detective, neighbour of Marnie's grandmother and she is really the one that knows everything, but not in this bad, prying way. The weakest character was, I think, Isobel - the way she acted just didn't sit with me, you couldn't take her and her reasoning seriously. Marnie herself was not too bad. However, her best friend Beth was the most colourful, engaging character of all, I think. She was shining through the pages and I so want a book about Beth! Actually, those were the scenes with Beth that made me laugh out loud, especially the ones when she got into labour. Hilarious!
Now, guys. I would be myself if I haven't had some issues, right? There were some things that didn't sit with me about Marnie, as much as I loved her, her indecision made me feel so, so frustrated! I was thinking she's only looking for excuses because if she was so desperate to leave Shipley then nothing would keep her, and the only thing she did was moaning how much she wants to leave and making a martyr of herself when staying because of her grandmother breaking a leg or nobody from the family wanting to take care of the shop. I also didn't get the issue with Alex. Why did she tell him in the first place he should go to America? Again, to feel like a martyr? Then, the thing with Isobel and her campaign to close the sweet shop. I was like, what, closing one little sweet shop will solve all the problems? And who the hell did she think she is to decide she has the power to do what she wants? Because she's a yummy - mummy?
The Beachside Sweet Shop itself reminded me of the old - school sweet shops, painted in pastels, with black and white photos on the walls and yellow awning. The novel was mostly set there and it's only a pity that there was not more about its interior and that it took Marnie so long to change it. However, I liked that it had its own group of customers and that it had a history and that people appreciated it as much as the sweets themselves. I think the shop just reminded those people of their own childhood and Marnie did her best to stock all kind of candies possible. But not the willies (ha! Read for yourself! Hilarious!).
"The Beachside Sweet Shop" is the first book in the series and I am already looking forward to "The Beachside Flower Stall". It was light - hearted and witty and it kept me entertained, and it was written in a way that kept me glued to the pages - I've finished this lovely novel about being unhappy in life but eventually changing it, taking control in your own hands in one day. It is not a story that is going to change lives but it is destined to make you feel happy and warm inside. Recommended!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
November 17, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the Publishers for this review copy.
Marnie Appleton runs the Beachside Sweet Shop in Shipley. It was left to her by her grandfather and she wants to do him proud and keep the legacy going. The only problem is, she’s not sure she wants to stay in Shipley. She wants to be like her mother and go off travelling. She wins a local business award and this gives her the financial means to pursue her dream. When it boils down to it though, does she really want to go? The business award also brings a different kind of trouble in the guise of Isobel Sinclair, former model and new neighbour who is determined to single handed bring down all unhealthy teeth rotting sweet shops! With the local press on the case, Marnie keeps putting her foot in it and suddenly finds herself announcing that she will start a new line of handmade sugar free sweets. Everything seems to happen at once – her ex-boyfriend comes home with new girlfriend in tow, her new shop assistant wants to be her new boyfriend and her best friend has a baby! Will she manage to hold Isobel off with her healthy treats or will she sell up and leave her grandfather’s legacy?
I loved this book! The title and cover enticed me straight away – who doesn’t love a good old fashioned sweet shop! To be honest, it’s very similar to other books in this genre but this is the first one I’ve read based in a sweet shop! This is also, so I discovered today, the first in the Beachside Bay series, with the second book ‘The Beachside Bay Flower Stall’ released on 13th April 2017.
The characters were lovely and I felt connected to them straight away. I worked out that some of them had some secrets, but they don’t come out to much later in the book! Some of the names were great also – Bunty the baby and of course, how could we forget local busybody Doris Day! It was such a delightful read, nice and easy and no difficult or confusing storyline. I have read so many intense crime/thriller books recently and it was so refreshing to have something that was entertaining and made me laugh out loud! I love the fact that Josh had been sent to ‘give her the willies’ (you’ll get it when you read it!).
A funny book with a hint of romance by the sea in a sweet shop – what more could a girl want! Five Stars!
Marnie Appleton runs the Beachside Sweet Shop in Shipley. It was left to her by her grandfather and she wants to do him proud and keep the legacy going. The only problem is, she’s not sure she wants to stay in Shipley. She wants to be like her mother and go off travelling. She wins a local business award and this gives her the financial means to pursue her dream. When it boils down to it though, does she really want to go? The business award also brings a different kind of trouble in the guise of Isobel Sinclair, former model and new neighbour who is determined to single handed bring down all unhealthy teeth rotting sweet shops! With the local press on the case, Marnie keeps putting her foot in it and suddenly finds herself announcing that she will start a new line of handmade sugar free sweets. Everything seems to happen at once – her ex-boyfriend comes home with new girlfriend in tow, her new shop assistant wants to be her new boyfriend and her best friend has a baby! Will she manage to hold Isobel off with her healthy treats or will she sell up and leave her grandfather’s legacy?
I loved this book! The title and cover enticed me straight away – who doesn’t love a good old fashioned sweet shop! To be honest, it’s very similar to other books in this genre but this is the first one I’ve read based in a sweet shop! This is also, so I discovered today, the first in the Beachside Bay series, with the second book ‘The Beachside Bay Flower Stall’ released on 13th April 2017.
The characters were lovely and I felt connected to them straight away. I worked out that some of them had some secrets, but they don’t come out to much later in the book! Some of the names were great also – Bunty the baby and of course, how could we forget local busybody Doris Day! It was such a delightful read, nice and easy and no difficult or confusing storyline. I have read so many intense crime/thriller books recently and it was so refreshing to have something that was entertaining and made me laugh out loud! I love the fact that Josh had been sent to ‘give her the willies’ (you’ll get it when you read it!).
A funny book with a hint of romance by the sea in a sweet shop – what more could a girl want! Five Stars!
February 7, 2017
I really loved this! It was like a breath of fresh air.
The constant descriptions of the sweets made me crave sweets so bad.
Marnie the main character she is a kind hearted woman that has inherited a sweet shop from her grandfather, it was his pride and joy. She gave up travelling and her ex to come back and run the sweet shop and everything is going smoothly until one day a woman sees ruining her business to boost her blog ratings and starts protesting and bring bad headlines to the sweet shop. This puts a lot of strain on Marnie and the sweet shop and we see her fight to try and save the sweet shop.
Along with the sweet shop we see Marnie face her ex who has moved on and is returning home with a new girlfriend. But not all is as it seems.
Theres a good mixture of character's in this book all so well described.
I may also point out the bright bold and beautiful cover for this book. Its absoultely stunning and from the minute I saw it I wanted to read this book.
The constant descriptions of the sweets made me crave sweets so bad.
Marnie the main character she is a kind hearted woman that has inherited a sweet shop from her grandfather, it was his pride and joy. She gave up travelling and her ex to come back and run the sweet shop and everything is going smoothly until one day a woman sees ruining her business to boost her blog ratings and starts protesting and bring bad headlines to the sweet shop. This puts a lot of strain on Marnie and the sweet shop and we see her fight to try and save the sweet shop.
Along with the sweet shop we see Marnie face her ex who has moved on and is returning home with a new girlfriend. But not all is as it seems.
Theres a good mixture of character's in this book all so well described.
I may also point out the bright bold and beautiful cover for this book. Its absoultely stunning and from the minute I saw it I wanted to read this book.
February 1, 2017
Brilliant! Such a beautiful, heart warming story! Loved every word! So well written. A magical, feel good tale. Loved, loved, loved. Highly recommend it to everyone.
March 4, 2017
Marnie has inherited her family's sweet shop. She's trying to honor her grandfather by keeping his legacy going. The Beachside Sweet Shop is part of Shipley, a small town by the sea. Marnie is used to working together with her best friend Beth, but Beth is about to have a baby and is almost done with her PhD, so she won't stay at the shop forever. Fortunately the gorgeous and mysterious Josh is at the right place at the right time and Marnie hires him on the spot. They get along fabulously and Marnie's workdays are looking bright again.
Not everybody is happy with Shipley's sweet shop though. The town has a new inhabitant, Isobel, a former model who never had an actual breakthrough and is looking for fame. She tries to get the shop closed by being against sugar to promote a book she hasn't written yet. Her protest campaign attracts a lot of attention, negativity Marnie can do without. She is being forced to come up with a battle plan, a strategy to beat the sour woman who's threatening her livelihood. However, when Marnie thinks she's done with setbacks her ex-boyfriend returns to Shipley with his new girlfriend. What should Marnie do, stay and fight for her happiness in the small town she's got a love-hate relationship with or pack her bags and chase her dream of traveling around the world?
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a delicious novel. I fell in love with the shop and its gorgeous old fashioned sweets straight away. Marnie is a smart woman with good ideas and it was fun to see her grow as a person. At first she just runs the family shop, but slowly she makes it her own and I really enjoyed witnessing that process. Marnie is a sweetheart. She can be a bit soft and insecure sometimes, but she always finds back her strength and battles her way through every difficult situation. She sometimes blunders, she doesn't always have all the answers and she doesn't know where she belongs yet, but she's fighting for a better future and makes a lot of friends along the way. Her warm and welcoming personality were a joy to read about and a sweet shop is a suitable place for someone with a super sweet personality. I absolutely loved that combination.
Karen Clarke's writing flows easily and her tasty descriptions of the sweets kept making my mouth water. A beachside sweet shop is a perfect place for a romantic story, a dream setting that wasn't difficult to picture and fantasize about. Marnie struggles with family issues, problems in love and business troubles, but she has a beautiful spirit and keeps finding back her vivaciousness. That was admirable and very enjoyable to read about. The Beachside Sweet Shop is charming, lighthearted and scrumptious and I highly recommend this lovely cheerful book.
Not everybody is happy with Shipley's sweet shop though. The town has a new inhabitant, Isobel, a former model who never had an actual breakthrough and is looking for fame. She tries to get the shop closed by being against sugar to promote a book she hasn't written yet. Her protest campaign attracts a lot of attention, negativity Marnie can do without. She is being forced to come up with a battle plan, a strategy to beat the sour woman who's threatening her livelihood. However, when Marnie thinks she's done with setbacks her ex-boyfriend returns to Shipley with his new girlfriend. What should Marnie do, stay and fight for her happiness in the small town she's got a love-hate relationship with or pack her bags and chase her dream of traveling around the world?
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a delicious novel. I fell in love with the shop and its gorgeous old fashioned sweets straight away. Marnie is a smart woman with good ideas and it was fun to see her grow as a person. At first she just runs the family shop, but slowly she makes it her own and I really enjoyed witnessing that process. Marnie is a sweetheart. She can be a bit soft and insecure sometimes, but she always finds back her strength and battles her way through every difficult situation. She sometimes blunders, she doesn't always have all the answers and she doesn't know where she belongs yet, but she's fighting for a better future and makes a lot of friends along the way. Her warm and welcoming personality were a joy to read about and a sweet shop is a suitable place for someone with a super sweet personality. I absolutely loved that combination.
Karen Clarke's writing flows easily and her tasty descriptions of the sweets kept making my mouth water. A beachside sweet shop is a perfect place for a romantic story, a dream setting that wasn't difficult to picture and fantasize about. Marnie struggles with family issues, problems in love and business troubles, but she has a beautiful spirit and keeps finding back her vivaciousness. That was admirable and very enjoyable to read about. The Beachside Sweet Shop is charming, lighthearted and scrumptious and I highly recommend this lovely cheerful book.
March 12, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Ahhh do you remember the good ol' days, usually a Saturday, when you were given pocket-money from your parents and there was only ONE place that was guaranteed your 'hard earned' change? Every Saturday, my mum used to give my brother and I anything from 50p-£1 to spend on sweets, and we always went to the same place; Churchills. The sort of sweet shop where, in the mid-nineties, 50p would get you a heck load of sherbet pips! As soon as I saw the title of Karen Clarke's novel, it brought back so many childhood memories which were all centred around that one particular sweet shop. It didn't even matter whether you dabbled in the sugary treats every so often, or whether you inhaled them as though they were the last sweets on Earth (every.single.week), you just had to visit your local sweet shop.
Marnie Appleton is under a lot of pressure (pressure which she has put on herself no less), as she tries to keep her grandfather's memory alive by keeping his bricked 'baby', aka his heart and soul open; The Beachside Sweet Shop. After Marnie's grandfather passed away, most of the family seemed more willing to eat the liquorice and bon-bons themselves, rather than serve the residents of Shipley those treats. Marnie didn't want to let her late grandfather down and was determined to keep the shop going in a way she knew that he would approve of. However, the best laid plans don't always go the way you want them to.
As I mentioned near the beginning of this review, Karen Clarke's tantalizing novel brought back so many memories for me, it was lovely to be able to reminisce about things with people you don't even know; the characters. I felt as though Marnie had bitten off more than she could chew and part of me wondered whether her heart was truly IN the sweet shop, or that she wasn't taking it over because people expected her to. Karen's descriptions of the shop's interior, the sweets and even smaller things like the paper bags that they were put in, was beautifully written. She didn't rush over the items in the shop, she took her time in letting the reader know everything about the sweet shop as if she was describing it to one of her good friends. I warmed to the storyline even more so because of that.
Even though Karen Clarke's novel seems to be centred around one thing in particular, there is a lot more to the storyline that meets the eye. At first I thought I was going to get an insane sugar rush from the book and its contents, but what I actually got was a clever, in depth storyline which contained a lot of depth and giggles. The Beachside Sweet Shop really is an enjoyable place to visit, and, thanks to Karen Clarke, the storyline tickled my taste buds in more ways than one. It wasn't just school children and sweeties, it was more about who had your back....whilst eating sweets. Make sense?
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a really enjoyable, fun and sweet read, full of good friendships, lost memories, good intentions and finding the right recipe to move forward. For me, some of the characters weren't as memorable as I would have liked them to be, it didn't stop me from having fun with this book.
The Beachside Sweet Shop really is the ideal read for just letting go and distracting yourself from the outside word.
Thank you Bookouture.
Ahhh do you remember the good ol' days, usually a Saturday, when you were given pocket-money from your parents and there was only ONE place that was guaranteed your 'hard earned' change? Every Saturday, my mum used to give my brother and I anything from 50p-£1 to spend on sweets, and we always went to the same place; Churchills. The sort of sweet shop where, in the mid-nineties, 50p would get you a heck load of sherbet pips! As soon as I saw the title of Karen Clarke's novel, it brought back so many childhood memories which were all centred around that one particular sweet shop. It didn't even matter whether you dabbled in the sugary treats every so often, or whether you inhaled them as though they were the last sweets on Earth (every.single.week), you just had to visit your local sweet shop.
Marnie Appleton is under a lot of pressure (pressure which she has put on herself no less), as she tries to keep her grandfather's memory alive by keeping his bricked 'baby', aka his heart and soul open; The Beachside Sweet Shop. After Marnie's grandfather passed away, most of the family seemed more willing to eat the liquorice and bon-bons themselves, rather than serve the residents of Shipley those treats. Marnie didn't want to let her late grandfather down and was determined to keep the shop going in a way she knew that he would approve of. However, the best laid plans don't always go the way you want them to.
As I mentioned near the beginning of this review, Karen Clarke's tantalizing novel brought back so many memories for me, it was lovely to be able to reminisce about things with people you don't even know; the characters. I felt as though Marnie had bitten off more than she could chew and part of me wondered whether her heart was truly IN the sweet shop, or that she wasn't taking it over because people expected her to. Karen's descriptions of the shop's interior, the sweets and even smaller things like the paper bags that they were put in, was beautifully written. She didn't rush over the items in the shop, she took her time in letting the reader know everything about the sweet shop as if she was describing it to one of her good friends. I warmed to the storyline even more so because of that.
Even though Karen Clarke's novel seems to be centred around one thing in particular, there is a lot more to the storyline that meets the eye. At first I thought I was going to get an insane sugar rush from the book and its contents, but what I actually got was a clever, in depth storyline which contained a lot of depth and giggles. The Beachside Sweet Shop really is an enjoyable place to visit, and, thanks to Karen Clarke, the storyline tickled my taste buds in more ways than one. It wasn't just school children and sweeties, it was more about who had your back....whilst eating sweets. Make sense?
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a really enjoyable, fun and sweet read, full of good friendships, lost memories, good intentions and finding the right recipe to move forward. For me, some of the characters weren't as memorable as I would have liked them to be, it didn't stop me from having fun with this book.
The Beachside Sweet Shop really is the ideal read for just letting go and distracting yourself from the outside word.
Thank you Bookouture.
March 6, 2017
Well if you enjoy the Bridgett Jones type humour then roll up and step into this delightful Beachside Sweet Shop because boy are you in for a treat. This was a very visual read for me and there were so many times that I just had to stop reading, no that's not true, there were times when I simply could not read any further because the words were blurred. No it wasn't a bad copy, I was crying so much I couldn't see and I feared that I would short circuit my kindle with tears from laughing. This is such a very funny book.
Marnie is the owner of a very olde worlde sweet shop, the sort that stock all those old favourites, pineapple cubes, pear drops, striped candy canes and gobstoppers, the ones that you can suck the memories out of when you close your eyes. It wasn't her career choice but she had spent hours with her granddad in his pride and joy, this sweet shop, so when he died, Marnie just couldn't let it go, she gave up her dream of travelling and took over. Well that was two years ago and people still referred to it as her granddad's shop. Now her friend and very pregnant employee Beth had entered her into a competition and the seaside town's people had voted for her and she had won. But would this be the making or the breaking for the little sweet shop and Marnie?
Karen Clarke's characters were entertaining from the first sentence until about 18 months from now when the memories will start fading. I loved getting to know them all. Marnie's turbulent love life and her quirky clumsiness. Beth and the wickedly hilarious pregnancy and birth. To the more serious issues of family relationships. It is also a story that will stir your own memories of years gone by.
A big fat buy this book with all the sugar coating it has, I savoured every ounce!
Marnie is the owner of a very olde worlde sweet shop, the sort that stock all those old favourites, pineapple cubes, pear drops, striped candy canes and gobstoppers, the ones that you can suck the memories out of when you close your eyes. It wasn't her career choice but she had spent hours with her granddad in his pride and joy, this sweet shop, so when he died, Marnie just couldn't let it go, she gave up her dream of travelling and took over. Well that was two years ago and people still referred to it as her granddad's shop. Now her friend and very pregnant employee Beth had entered her into a competition and the seaside town's people had voted for her and she had won. But would this be the making or the breaking for the little sweet shop and Marnie?
Karen Clarke's characters were entertaining from the first sentence until about 18 months from now when the memories will start fading. I loved getting to know them all. Marnie's turbulent love life and her quirky clumsiness. Beth and the wickedly hilarious pregnancy and birth. To the more serious issues of family relationships. It is also a story that will stir your own memories of years gone by.
A big fat buy this book with all the sugar coating it has, I savoured every ounce!
April 11, 2017
Those who are long time readers here at afternoonbookery will know that a beach, coffee,sweet,shop,b&b books are straight to the top of my list, so when i spied this newbie on netgalley - i knew it was going to be a perfect summer time read for me. Oh it was.
We meet Marnie, who is stuck at home - running the beachside sweet shop aspiring to travel the world with her ex, but the universe had other plans for her, with relatives ill and no one else to run the family shop, it falls to Marnie.
Beth has other plans for the sweet shop though - and when Marnie wins an unexpected award (all arranged by Beth!) its time to fix up the sweet shop, but not everyone believes that a sweet treat is a good thing, when newbie mum blogger Isobel turns her sights on Marnie, can the sweet shop handle her smear campaign? Throw in some new eye candy to help heal the heartbreak and you have a recipe for something all together sweet and full of sugar.
The beachside sweet shop is a wonderfully sugary sweet read with the right amount of town drama
that keeps the reader interested in where the narrative is going. My heart really went out to Marnie and i just wanted all to be right in her world, i was rooting for her all along.
The characters are well built in a fantasticly descriptive little village that really feels like home, that despite all the drama from the yummy mummys you know the older dears only have your best interest at heart. This was the perfect summer pick me up, and one for those with a sweet tooth.
April 11, 2017
To be honest, I didn't expect much from this book (maybe the cover is a bit too childish?). I wasn't too sure about this but decided to give it a try and I am really I did! From the first page to the last one I enjoyed reading this book! Such a lovely story, full of events. I never was bored. And I really liked the characters, especially the main one, Marnie. She is such a lovely person, who we can only like. I have in my TBR, the Beachside Flower Shop from the same author and I can't wait to read it! I hope some of the characters from The Beachside Sweet Shop will make an appearance in the second book!
October 5, 2017
3.5
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a cute book which is perfect for the beach.
I enjoyed the story around the shop and the people of Beachside with their different lifes.
The atmosphere of the little town was pretty nice but there could have been a little more world-building.
The love story came a little bit short as well. I hoped there would have been more emotions and romance.
The book had me well entertained and I am looking forward to return to Beachside.
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a cute book which is perfect for the beach.
I enjoyed the story around the shop and the people of Beachside with their different lifes.
The atmosphere of the little town was pretty nice but there could have been a little more world-building.
The love story came a little bit short as well. I hoped there would have been more emotions and romance.
The book had me well entertained and I am looking forward to return to Beachside.
August 24, 2020
Loved reading this book. It's such a sweet easy read. I wasn't expecting Marnie to go back to Alex though, I really thought she would chose Josh!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2021
2.5 out of 5. I really wanted to like this one but sadly if fell short.
June 27, 2019
It was ok
I read the whole book but cannot say it was in anyway a page turner. If I. Could, I read it but it was a real bummer
I read the whole book but cannot say it was in anyway a page turner. If I. Could, I read it but it was a real bummer
June 13, 2019
Such an adorable read! I love these types of books that you see the characters grow and move on positivity with their lives. It was entertaining too, and funny. Just what you want for a fun summer read.
The only downfall? I was constantly wanting to eat sweets 🍬 whilst reading this! 😊🍭🍫
The only downfall? I was constantly wanting to eat sweets 🍬 whilst reading this! 😊🍭🍫
March 16, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed losing myself in this delightful seaside and sweeties story. So much so that I ended up buying a 'quarter' of pear drops and some white chocolate mice shortly after finishing it. A gorgeous setting and great cast of characters - hoping some of them will reappear in future books in the series
February 15, 2017
Predictable but sweet. This is a good beach read, or maybe a stuck-in-the-house for a snow day read.
February 12, 2017
The Beachside Sweet Shop is a lovely lighthearted read. It follows the story of Marnie Appleton who inherited the sweet sop from her grandfather.
The shop has been part of the seaside town of Shipley for many years and everyone loves it until Isabel Sinclair arrives in town. Isabel is on a crusade to get the shop closed down and tries her best to secure nothing but bad publicity for Marnie.
Marnie fights back with sugar free treats and with family (grandmother Celia) and friends (Beth in particular) helping, does her best to secure the future of the shop.
Marnie, Beth and Celia are all fantastic characters that gel well together. Add in a couple of hunks in the shape of Josh and Alex and this book really does prove to be an excellent feel-good romantic comedy that I loved reading this weekend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Karen Clarke for the chance to review.
The shop has been part of the seaside town of Shipley for many years and everyone loves it until Isabel Sinclair arrives in town. Isabel is on a crusade to get the shop closed down and tries her best to secure nothing but bad publicity for Marnie.
Marnie fights back with sugar free treats and with family (grandmother Celia) and friends (Beth in particular) helping, does her best to secure the future of the shop.
Marnie, Beth and Celia are all fantastic characters that gel well together. Add in a couple of hunks in the shape of Josh and Alex and this book really does prove to be an excellent feel-good romantic comedy that I loved reading this weekend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Karen Clarke for the chance to review.
March 15, 2017
This is a delightful, well written story and I thought I knew where it was heading several times - but no, never guessed correctly!
Plenty going on - family, business, friends, hints of romance, new baby, travel along with the dirty deeds of a saboteur - keep this a fresh and lively read. Even better, when I reached the very end I discovered that the author has more books planned in the same setting of Shipley. I love that this was a full novel, 100% this story and no needless previews (I never read them anyway).
If you are looking for a busy, uplifting read which will hold your attention, look no further. I most definitely recommend this and will be adding Karen Clarke to my list of authors to watch out for.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Plenty going on - family, business, friends, hints of romance, new baby, travel along with the dirty deeds of a saboteur - keep this a fresh and lively read. Even better, when I reached the very end I discovered that the author has more books planned in the same setting of Shipley. I love that this was a full novel, 100% this story and no needless previews (I never read them anyway).
If you are looking for a busy, uplifting read which will hold your attention, look no further. I most definitely recommend this and will be adding Karen Clarke to my list of authors to watch out for.
I received an arc via Net Galley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
March 2, 2017
Marnie inherits her grandfathers sweet shop and when it wins an award it starts to attract negative attention from one of her new neighbours who is on an anti sugar campaign with a hidden agenda.
Marnie has a yearning to travel but also a lovely sense of family- she doesn't want her grandfathers shop to fail. With a failed relationship behind her- is she ready for a new love?
There is a lovely cast of characters- Marnie's nan is a superstar at dog training, her mum is a wannabe hippy and her friend is a lovely support to her whilst she plans the sweetshop's future. I loved the plans and the recipe testing. It made me want some Turkish Delight and Jelly beans on hand!
A hint of romance, set by the beach and delicious sounding sweets- what more could a book offer!!!!!!!!!
Marnie has a yearning to travel but also a lovely sense of family- she doesn't want her grandfathers shop to fail. With a failed relationship behind her- is she ready for a new love?
There is a lovely cast of characters- Marnie's nan is a superstar at dog training, her mum is a wannabe hippy and her friend is a lovely support to her whilst she plans the sweetshop's future. I loved the plans and the recipe testing. It made me want some Turkish Delight and Jelly beans on hand!
A hint of romance, set by the beach and delicious sounding sweets- what more could a book offer!!!!!!!!!
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