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Christmas on the Coast
Can the secrets of the past be forgiven this Christmas?
Christmas is approaching on the island of Jersey, but Libby is feeling far from festive. Her police work and duties as vicar’s wife weigh heavily on her, she’s anxious about her troubled children, and now her best friend, Stella, has suddenly turned against her, citing a mysterious family grudge.
Libby is devastated by Stella’s unexpected coldness. But then her father shows her a diary written by her great-aunt Queenie, which sheds light on a long-hidden secret—one rooted in love, loyalty and betrayal. Writing during the Nazi occupation of Jersey in the winter of 1941, Queenie reveals a community torn apart by illicit romance, heartbreak and revenge—and by dark acts of fear and desperation.
The more Libby immerses herself in Queenie’s journal, the more she understands why its secrets still haunt her family and Stella’s. Christmas is a time of forgiveness, but is the treachery of their shared past too shameful to be forgotten?
Christmas is approaching on the island of Jersey, but Libby is feeling far from festive. Her police work and duties as vicar’s wife weigh heavily on her, she’s anxious about her troubled children, and now her best friend, Stella, has suddenly turned against her, citing a mysterious family grudge.
Libby is devastated by Stella’s unexpected coldness. But then her father shows her a diary written by her great-aunt Queenie, which sheds light on a long-hidden secret—one rooted in love, loyalty and betrayal. Writing during the Nazi occupation of Jersey in the winter of 1941, Queenie reveals a community torn apart by illicit romance, heartbreak and revenge—and by dark acts of fear and desperation.
The more Libby immerses herself in Queenie’s journal, the more she understands why its secrets still haunt her family and Stella’s. Christmas is a time of forgiveness, but is the treachery of their shared past too shameful to be forgotten?
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2017
1313 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Boxall
11 books184 followersRebecca Boxall was born in East Sussex in 1977 and grew up in a bustling vicarage always filled with family, friends and parishioners. She now lives by the sea in Jersey with her husband, children and cat. She read English at the University of Warwick before training as a lawyer and also studied Creative Writing with The Writer's Bureau. She was nominated for the Romantic Novel Awards in 2020.
Rebecca's books have all become bestsellers, two of them reaching No. 1 on the UK Kindle charts, proving popular with readers interested in seasonal novels that are feel-good but touch on some serious issues too. For more information please visit www.facebook.com/christmasatthevicarage or www.rebeccaboxall.co.uk.
About Christmas at the Vicarage:
"I was inspired by Rosamunde Pilcher, my favourite author, whose books I've re-read again and again. There's something so gentle and soothing about her books and I wanted to try to write something similarly feel-good. They always say write about what you know and so I decided to focus on vicarage life as I grew up in a village parish as the daughter of an eccentric vicar. When my dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer it was the final push I needed to write a book based on life at a vicarage, with a character inspired by him (the vicar, of course!). He read the book in draft but sadly died before it was published."
Rebecca's books have all become bestsellers, two of them reaching No. 1 on the UK Kindle charts, proving popular with readers interested in seasonal novels that are feel-good but touch on some serious issues too. For more information please visit www.facebook.com/christmasatthevicarage or www.rebeccaboxall.co.uk.
About Christmas at the Vicarage:
"I was inspired by Rosamunde Pilcher, my favourite author, whose books I've re-read again and again. There's something so gentle and soothing about her books and I wanted to try to write something similarly feel-good. They always say write about what you know and so I decided to focus on vicarage life as I grew up in a village parish as the daughter of an eccentric vicar. When my dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer it was the final push I needed to write a book based on life at a vicarage, with a character inspired by him (the vicar, of course!). He read the book in draft but sadly died before it was published."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
October 29, 2017
4.5 stars
There are times when I think books choose me to read them rather than the other way around. Christmas on the Coast, by Rebecca Boxall, is exactly one such book. I was looking for a simple holiday read, nothing too heavy, when the cover of this gem caught my eye. I quickly learned, however, that while the story takes place in December, it is far from a cute little holiday tale.
The story is told from two perspective: one set in present day Jersey, Chanel Islands and told by Libby, a Vicar's wife, who is frantically preparing for the holidays, her daughter's wedding, keeping up with her own work and two very needy sons. The alternating half is told through a family journal written during the Nazi Occupation of Jersey in 1941.
I, of course, must be the only person in the world that did not know that the Chanel Islands were occupied during the war. While the journal is fiction, it is based upon a found diary from Jersey. The author has done extensive research and has included a Bibliography for further reading. This section of the book is utterly fascinating!
In the present, Libby is in turmoil with her family who is far too needy and with her dearest friend, who suddenly is no longer speaking to her based on a family grudge about which neither woman previously knew existed. The stress and anger threatens to ruin the holidays for everyone. However, after reading the journal, learning the truth, comparing lives in the present with those during the occupation, everyone realizes that forgiveness and peace are far more important than decor and feuds.
The history in this book is phenomenal but not overpowering. The war theme is present and realistic without being so dark that you will not read it. The message itself is one of hope and peace which is ideal for the season and for the world today. If you only read one holiday book this season, I wholly recommend this one.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Rebecca Boxall and Lake Union Publishing for my copy of this holiday treasure.
There are times when I think books choose me to read them rather than the other way around. Christmas on the Coast, by Rebecca Boxall, is exactly one such book. I was looking for a simple holiday read, nothing too heavy, when the cover of this gem caught my eye. I quickly learned, however, that while the story takes place in December, it is far from a cute little holiday tale.
The story is told from two perspective: one set in present day Jersey, Chanel Islands and told by Libby, a Vicar's wife, who is frantically preparing for the holidays, her daughter's wedding, keeping up with her own work and two very needy sons. The alternating half is told through a family journal written during the Nazi Occupation of Jersey in 1941.
I, of course, must be the only person in the world that did not know that the Chanel Islands were occupied during the war. While the journal is fiction, it is based upon a found diary from Jersey. The author has done extensive research and has included a Bibliography for further reading. This section of the book is utterly fascinating!
In the present, Libby is in turmoil with her family who is far too needy and with her dearest friend, who suddenly is no longer speaking to her based on a family grudge about which neither woman previously knew existed. The stress and anger threatens to ruin the holidays for everyone. However, after reading the journal, learning the truth, comparing lives in the present with those during the occupation, everyone realizes that forgiveness and peace are far more important than decor and feuds.
The history in this book is phenomenal but not overpowering. The war theme is present and realistic without being so dark that you will not read it. The message itself is one of hope and peace which is ideal for the season and for the world today. If you only read one holiday book this season, I wholly recommend this one.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Rebecca Boxall and Lake Union Publishing for my copy of this holiday treasure.
December 9, 2017
This was an okay holiday read. Surprisingly the chapters from the time of the German occupation of Jersey were less interesting than the ones set in the current day.
The nitty gritty of family life was worth reading although I wanted to take Libby and shake her hard when she let everyone in the world walk all over her! Are there really people like that out there? You would think survival of the fittest would have weaned them out by now.
There was one really exciting moment when Libby told them all where to go....but then she changed her mind. Oh well. It was a pleasant enough read although probably not memorable.
The nitty gritty of family life was worth reading although I wanted to take Libby and shake her hard when she let everyone in the world walk all over her! Are there really people like that out there? You would think survival of the fittest would have weaned them out by now.
There was one really exciting moment when Libby told them all where to go....but then she changed her mind. Oh well. It was a pleasant enough read although probably not memorable.
December 5, 2017
A pretty good Christmas book. I probably would have enjoyed it better had I not read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. But, my one sticking problem in the story was the best friend who suddenly dumps her lifelong friend because of something that happened years before she was born.
Other than those speed bumps I liked the Christmas celebrations and sweet traditions.
Other than those speed bumps I liked the Christmas celebrations and sweet traditions.
November 24, 2017
Two Christmas stories are told in alternate chapters in this novel. Both are set in Jersey, one in 2016 and the other in 1942.
I have a real fascination of the Channel Islands and their German occupation in WW2. Therefore, I thought this book had real promise. It turned out to be an unfulfilled promise.
The present day story stars Libby, who’s disgruntled with her job, her family and then her best friend when she suddenly turns on her. Pretty much all this conflict made me want to scream. Neither Libby, any of her immediate family, or Stella (the best friend) was likeable. Her hubby was weak. The kids were spoilt attention seekers. Stella was obviously a completely nutcase going through menopause. And Libby was self-absorbed and immature.
The historical chapters, written in the form of Libby’s great aunt’s diary, fall just as flat unfortunately. The characters here are just as whiny as the present day ones in fact.
There’s a lot of plot in the 1942 chapters. Girls fall in and out of love with their German captors, Jews and Russians hide, people get sick, and one even gets murdered. I hate to say it but Boxall just didn’t write a story based on these plots, however. She just wrote they happened and expected that to be enough. There’s no tension, no build up of events, and little to no characterisation (everyone sounds the same).
The murder, in particular, should have been a climactic scene that made us fret for the characters’ fate, but instead it’s ‘oh, there’s a body’. And the killer’s reveal is just ridiculous. Not their identity but the way they're revealed. There was no ‘show and tell’just all tell in a terrible info dump.
It’s a short book, which is the only reason I kept reading to the end.
2 out of 5 is generous. I’d highly recommend picking up a copy of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society instead.
I have a real fascination of the Channel Islands and their German occupation in WW2. Therefore, I thought this book had real promise. It turned out to be an unfulfilled promise.
The present day story stars Libby, who’s disgruntled with her job, her family and then her best friend when she suddenly turns on her. Pretty much all this conflict made me want to scream. Neither Libby, any of her immediate family, or Stella (the best friend) was likeable. Her hubby was weak. The kids were spoilt attention seekers. Stella was obviously a completely nutcase going through menopause. And Libby was self-absorbed and immature.
The historical chapters, written in the form of Libby’s great aunt’s diary, fall just as flat unfortunately. The characters here are just as whiny as the present day ones in fact.
There’s a lot of plot in the 1942 chapters. Girls fall in and out of love with their German captors, Jews and Russians hide, people get sick, and one even gets murdered. I hate to say it but Boxall just didn’t write a story based on these plots, however. She just wrote they happened and expected that to be enough. There’s no tension, no build up of events, and little to no characterisation (everyone sounds the same).
The murder, in particular, should have been a climactic scene that made us fret for the characters’ fate, but instead it’s ‘oh, there’s a body’. And the killer’s reveal is just ridiculous. Not their identity but the way they're revealed. There was no ‘show and tell’just all tell in a terrible info dump.
It’s a short book, which is the only reason I kept reading to the end.
2 out of 5 is generous. I’d highly recommend picking up a copy of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society instead.
December 17, 2017
This was a wonderful Christmas book with a twist. Not only does it take place in current day leading up to the big day, but also in 1941, during the German occupation of Jersey, in the Channel Islands.
In current day, we meet Libby, a busy police worker, vicar's wife and mother of 3 older children- all who are contributing to her worries. Her best friend, Stella, has fallen out with her, based on an incident that took place in 1941.
In 1941, we meet Queenie who is keeping a journal of all that is occurring during the German occupation.
Of course, the two stories come together as we learn the truth of what actually occurred.
I liked the way the author highlighted the stress of getting ready for Christmas. The present day story definitely resonated with me. I felt Libby's anxiety. At one point Libby has a meltdown and shouts to her family" If you want Christmas this year, then you lot organize it, because I quit."
Ultimately, this book is about the love and magic of Christmas and the importance of family and friends!
A lovely Christmas read!
Thanks to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishers and the author, Rebecca Boxall for allowing me to read and review this book.
In current day, we meet Libby, a busy police worker, vicar's wife and mother of 3 older children- all who are contributing to her worries. Her best friend, Stella, has fallen out with her, based on an incident that took place in 1941.
In 1941, we meet Queenie who is keeping a journal of all that is occurring during the German occupation.
Of course, the two stories come together as we learn the truth of what actually occurred.
I liked the way the author highlighted the stress of getting ready for Christmas. The present day story definitely resonated with me. I felt Libby's anxiety. At one point Libby has a meltdown and shouts to her family" If you want Christmas this year, then you lot organize it, because I quit."
Ultimately, this book is about the love and magic of Christmas and the importance of family and friends!
A lovely Christmas read!
Thanks to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishers and the author, Rebecca Boxall for allowing me to read and review this book.
Read
October 16, 2017 She ran the taps, pouring in her favourite bath salts, then undressed and plunged herself into the tub.
'Arrrgh!' she yelled, jumping straight back out again. The bathwater was freezing cold.
FFS!!! No one EVER gets into a bath without putting their hand in first to check the temperature. (Unless they are total morons) And as for 'plunging' - I think that's a physical impossibility. You step into a bath. She would have got one foot wet.
It's this sort of stupid writing that makes me dnf a book.
'Arrrgh!' she yelled, jumping straight back out again. The bathwater was freezing cold.
FFS!!! No one EVER gets into a bath without putting their hand in first to check the temperature. (Unless they are total morons) And as for 'plunging' - I think that's a physical impossibility. You step into a bath. She would have got one foot wet.
It's this sort of stupid writing that makes me dnf a book.
December 3, 2017
This is a wonderful Christmas story combining present and past. It contains love and joy and is a perfect novel for this time of year.
Thank you toNetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you toNetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 12, 2017
Original review can be found at https://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/...
** I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you!**
I originally picked this book up with the thought of reading a festive Christmas story but soon found out that it was anything but. Yes, it took place over the holiday season and there was an underlying message of hope, love and forgiveness that is often found in a holiday book but this was so much more. It was so much more in a very pleasant way.
This story took place in the present with Libby and her family and in 1941 during the Nazi occupation of Jersey with Queenie's journal. In the present, Libby was struggling to juggle her work, family and social life when she had an unexpected falling out with her best friend over a family feud that she knew nothing about. Queenie's journal held the key to finding the answers to the questions she had.
As with any story that weaves between past and present, I found myself drawn to the story of the past. Although this was a work of fiction, quite a bit of research went into it and I found the story surrounding the Nazi occupation of Jersey fascinating. I have a thirst for knowledge when it comes to anything regarding both world wars and this book gave me a small glimpse that will have me researching for some time to come. Although the subject matter was heavy the writing was not. The journal was easy to read and understand and had a true likeness to the writing of a young lady. I found myself enjoying it tremendously.
I must admit that I struggled slightly with Libby and the present day story. Her family was brutal and I found myself really disliking them. Even as the story progressed and things changed for the better come Christmas, I found it was too little too late. They were just too obnoxious, selfish and spoiled to be redeemed within the pages of this book. Also, the issues surrounding her eldest son were too serious and concerning to be wrapped up as neatly as they were. I found myself rushing through the pages in order to get back to the journal and Queenie's story.
All in all, this was an easy and enjoyable book to read. The past story more than made up for what I felt was a much weaker present story. I enjoyed learning about the setting and felt that it was as much a character as the people in the book. Christmas on the Coast turned out to be a lot more, in a good way, than I was expecting out of a Christmas story. I am really glad that I had the opportunity to read it.
** I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Thank you!**
I originally picked this book up with the thought of reading a festive Christmas story but soon found out that it was anything but. Yes, it took place over the holiday season and there was an underlying message of hope, love and forgiveness that is often found in a holiday book but this was so much more. It was so much more in a very pleasant way.
This story took place in the present with Libby and her family and in 1941 during the Nazi occupation of Jersey with Queenie's journal. In the present, Libby was struggling to juggle her work, family and social life when she had an unexpected falling out with her best friend over a family feud that she knew nothing about. Queenie's journal held the key to finding the answers to the questions she had.
As with any story that weaves between past and present, I found myself drawn to the story of the past. Although this was a work of fiction, quite a bit of research went into it and I found the story surrounding the Nazi occupation of Jersey fascinating. I have a thirst for knowledge when it comes to anything regarding both world wars and this book gave me a small glimpse that will have me researching for some time to come. Although the subject matter was heavy the writing was not. The journal was easy to read and understand and had a true likeness to the writing of a young lady. I found myself enjoying it tremendously.
I must admit that I struggled slightly with Libby and the present day story. Her family was brutal and I found myself really disliking them. Even as the story progressed and things changed for the better come Christmas, I found it was too little too late. They were just too obnoxious, selfish and spoiled to be redeemed within the pages of this book. Also, the issues surrounding her eldest son were too serious and concerning to be wrapped up as neatly as they were. I found myself rushing through the pages in order to get back to the journal and Queenie's story.
All in all, this was an easy and enjoyable book to read. The past story more than made up for what I felt was a much weaker present story. I enjoyed learning about the setting and felt that it was as much a character as the people in the book. Christmas on the Coast turned out to be a lot more, in a good way, than I was expecting out of a Christmas story. I am really glad that I had the opportunity to read it.
November 21, 2017
Christmas on the Coast is a book written with alternating timelines. Libby is the main protagonist. She has a contemporary story set around the Christmas season. Queenie’s story is set during WWII. We experience her story through reading the journal she kept at the time. Both stories take place on Jersey, which is one of the small islands that make up the Channel Islands in the English Channel. It was occupied by the Germans during a good portion of WWII. Rebecca Boxall's WWII story included a murder mystery and some really interesting historical fiction. I found myself less enthralled by her contemporary story. Libby (her full name is ‘Liberty’) used to be a police officer. She now works at a legal firm. She’s married to the local vicar, and has managed to raise three very self-centered children. She is the doormat to all of them, including her boss, and she struggles to be all things to all people while losing herself to a large extent.
Queenie’s story takes place in the early 1940’s and is filled with interesting historical tidbits and ongoing tension in the storyline regarding how the population chooses to interact with the German occupying forces. How the islanders act and react have long term consequences for many of the islanders. I found myself speed reading through Libby’s sections to get back to Queenie. Maybe I don’t have enough in common with Libby, or I just got fed up with her being such a people-pleaser. For whatever reason, I didn’t enjoy Libby as much as Queenie. Other readers may identify with Libby more than I do, so they might experience her with more compassion than I was able to manage. There is personal growth in both stories however. By the end of the book, the alternating stories were nicely aligned. The long-term outcome of the choices made in the 1940’s was more fully explained.
I’m giving this book 3.5 stars, rounding up to 4 stars. Queenie’s story gets 4 stars in my estimation, while Libby’s story is in the low 3 star range. I DID like the Christmas holiday scenes in both timelines; especially a walk to the Canterbury Cathedral that Libby took with her father on a snowy night. It did put me in a holiday frame of mind. If you’re looking for a book with alternating storylines that has a nice holiday touch; but is not so heavy on the sickly-sweet romances that seem to populate the Holiday book sub-genre now, this could be just the book for you.
"Thank-you" to Lake Union Publishing, Rebecca Boxall, and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Queenie’s story takes place in the early 1940’s and is filled with interesting historical tidbits and ongoing tension in the storyline regarding how the population chooses to interact with the German occupying forces. How the islanders act and react have long term consequences for many of the islanders. I found myself speed reading through Libby’s sections to get back to Queenie. Maybe I don’t have enough in common with Libby, or I just got fed up with her being such a people-pleaser. For whatever reason, I didn’t enjoy Libby as much as Queenie. Other readers may identify with Libby more than I do, so they might experience her with more compassion than I was able to manage. There is personal growth in both stories however. By the end of the book, the alternating stories were nicely aligned. The long-term outcome of the choices made in the 1940’s was more fully explained.
I’m giving this book 3.5 stars, rounding up to 4 stars. Queenie’s story gets 4 stars in my estimation, while Libby’s story is in the low 3 star range. I DID like the Christmas holiday scenes in both timelines; especially a walk to the Canterbury Cathedral that Libby took with her father on a snowy night. It did put me in a holiday frame of mind. If you’re looking for a book with alternating storylines that has a nice holiday touch; but is not so heavy on the sickly-sweet romances that seem to populate the Holiday book sub-genre now, this could be just the book for you.
"Thank-you" to Lake Union Publishing, Rebecca Boxall, and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2018
Fascinating
Loved the way the story slipped between the war years with the journal and the present. Sad at times but so interesting. Loved the ending. A real feel good for Christmas. Know the journal was fiction but having been to Jersey and read about the occupation it rang true
Loved the way the story slipped between the war years with the journal and the present. Sad at times but so interesting. Loved the ending. A real feel good for Christmas. Know the journal was fiction but having been to Jersey and read about the occupation it rang true
October 19, 2017
Family, friends, love and duty all combine to bring a wonderful story. Christmas is the vehicle but the story is so much more. I loved it
December 2, 2017
The book opens in 2016, with Libby struggling to juggle life as a vicar's wife, raising 3 demanding children, her own career and Christmas.
Libby and Stella have been friends for 43 years – since childhood. However, suddenly without warning Stella stops talking to Libby. Can Libby work out why her best friend is giving her the cold shoulder all of a sudden?
Christmas on the Coast is not your average Christmas novel of Turkey, Tinsel and Tantrums but a thought provoking novel of hardship, friendship and betrayal.
An excellent read which will certainly make you think this Christmas about how Christmas is not always a tale of good tidings and joy.
Libby and Stella have been friends for 43 years – since childhood. However, suddenly without warning Stella stops talking to Libby. Can Libby work out why her best friend is giving her the cold shoulder all of a sudden?
Christmas on the Coast is not your average Christmas novel of Turkey, Tinsel and Tantrums but a thought provoking novel of hardship, friendship and betrayal.
An excellent read which will certainly make you think this Christmas about how Christmas is not always a tale of good tidings and joy.
October 29, 2017
Having read Rebecca's other two novels I was keen to read this one. I was not disappointed and found it to be a most enjoyable read. My mother is from Jersey and Rebecca does a brilliant job describing the island. Loved the characters - a brilliant read! Can't wait for more from Rebecca!!
October 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this Christmas read. Which was a little different from the norm.
It is set in two time zones. The war and then in 2016. I love books that are split between time zones as I feel that it makes them more intriguing.
The other thing that is a little different about this book is the fact that Libby is not only a police officer but also a vicars wife. Which makes the book feel even more Christmassy as they get ready for the true meaning of the festive season.
I also love books that have lots of layers to them. This book has diary entries as well as normal writing which I loved. It is filled with secrets, arguments, love, loyalty, heartbreak, romance, revenge, forgiveness and Christmas. What more could you possibly want in a book.
Wonderfully written. With great characters. This book should be on everyone’s to read list. This Christmas.
It is set in two time zones. The war and then in 2016. I love books that are split between time zones as I feel that it makes them more intriguing.
The other thing that is a little different about this book is the fact that Libby is not only a police officer but also a vicars wife. Which makes the book feel even more Christmassy as they get ready for the true meaning of the festive season.
I also love books that have lots of layers to them. This book has diary entries as well as normal writing which I loved. It is filled with secrets, arguments, love, loyalty, heartbreak, romance, revenge, forgiveness and Christmas. What more could you possibly want in a book.
Wonderfully written. With great characters. This book should be on everyone’s to read list. This Christmas.
February 12, 2018
A wonderfully well-written book that i enjoyed reading. Christmas is always the time for forgiving so when the plot revolves around a situation concerning a friend, well that gives you more to look forward too. Libby is the character in the book and she is reading the journal of Queenie and the secrets it holds of the past can tear apart the balance even more. Plus she has to deal with her troubled children, and being the vicar'e wife. A must read story that will have you holding on to it til the very end. A must read for book lovers everywhere.
November 19, 2017
Christmas on the Coast by Rebecca Boxall is the delightful holiday read sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Libby is feeling a little frazzled these days. With the holidays approaching her duties as a Vicar’s wife and a financial crime investigator is leaving her with little time for anything else. Add the pressure of three grown children who constantly need mum and dad to solve their problems and Libby is about to burst. Her one bright spot is her BFF Stella. Since childhood the two have shared everything including their friendship anniversary every year. But when Stella gets a startling phone call concerning the health of her mother, a secret is revealed upon her deathbed that changes everything for these two women. Stella, now refuses to talk with Libby, leaving her best friend bereft and confused. How will the two ever solve their divide if Stella refuses to talk?
When a minor accident leaves Libby’s mother with a sprained wrist, Libby decides to travel to Canterbury to spend time with her parents. As the days go by, Libby realizes this visit is what she needed to put everything in perspective. When she decides to share all her worries and concerns about her family, as well as her relationship with Stella, her father doesn’t seem surprised at the news. Instead he offers her a diary that her great-aunt Queenie kept when the island of Jersey was under Nazi occupation during WWII. This diary holds the key to the grudge that Stella’s mother has held against Libby’s family for many years. Armed with the diary, Libby travels back to Jersey and her family where the answers she craves and the love she deserves awaits her. Can Libby’s family put aside their needs for once to show Libby their appreciation and help with holiday preparations? Can Stella find it in her heart to let go of her mother’s past and animosity toward Libby and her family? You’ll have to read the book to find out!!
Personally speaking, Christmas on the Coast was not only a sweet Christmas book, but also a very clever and insightful read. I had all the drama of Libby’s children and their problems, while the mystery of Stella’s anger left me hanging on every page hoping for a clue. I especially enjoyed Queenie’s character and the vivid descriptions of Jersey during the German occupation. I also liked Libby and Libby’s parents. It was easy to see where Libby inherited her nurturing nature. The author alternating chapters between Libby and Queenie was pure genius. It kept me reading and turning the pages anxious to get to the next chapter. I didn’t want to put it down. And as all good Christmas novels promise, the ending was both satisfying and delightful.
For an enjoyable Christmas read to welcome in the holidays consider Christmas on the Coast by Rebecca Boxall. It will sweep you away to a small channel island where you will get a taste of England’s coast, holiday traditions and two families past and present. Light your tree, sit back with a good cuppa tea and be prepared to be entertained.
I want to thank Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of Christmas on the Coast by Rebecca Boxall for a fair and honest review.
Libby is feeling a little frazzled these days. With the holidays approaching her duties as a Vicar’s wife and a financial crime investigator is leaving her with little time for anything else. Add the pressure of three grown children who constantly need mum and dad to solve their problems and Libby is about to burst. Her one bright spot is her BFF Stella. Since childhood the two have shared everything including their friendship anniversary every year. But when Stella gets a startling phone call concerning the health of her mother, a secret is revealed upon her deathbed that changes everything for these two women. Stella, now refuses to talk with Libby, leaving her best friend bereft and confused. How will the two ever solve their divide if Stella refuses to talk?
When a minor accident leaves Libby’s mother with a sprained wrist, Libby decides to travel to Canterbury to spend time with her parents. As the days go by, Libby realizes this visit is what she needed to put everything in perspective. When she decides to share all her worries and concerns about her family, as well as her relationship with Stella, her father doesn’t seem surprised at the news. Instead he offers her a diary that her great-aunt Queenie kept when the island of Jersey was under Nazi occupation during WWII. This diary holds the key to the grudge that Stella’s mother has held against Libby’s family for many years. Armed with the diary, Libby travels back to Jersey and her family where the answers she craves and the love she deserves awaits her. Can Libby’s family put aside their needs for once to show Libby their appreciation and help with holiday preparations? Can Stella find it in her heart to let go of her mother’s past and animosity toward Libby and her family? You’ll have to read the book to find out!!
Personally speaking, Christmas on the Coast was not only a sweet Christmas book, but also a very clever and insightful read. I had all the drama of Libby’s children and their problems, while the mystery of Stella’s anger left me hanging on every page hoping for a clue. I especially enjoyed Queenie’s character and the vivid descriptions of Jersey during the German occupation. I also liked Libby and Libby’s parents. It was easy to see where Libby inherited her nurturing nature. The author alternating chapters between Libby and Queenie was pure genius. It kept me reading and turning the pages anxious to get to the next chapter. I didn’t want to put it down. And as all good Christmas novels promise, the ending was both satisfying and delightful.
For an enjoyable Christmas read to welcome in the holidays consider Christmas on the Coast by Rebecca Boxall. It will sweep you away to a small channel island where you will get a taste of England’s coast, holiday traditions and two families past and present. Light your tree, sit back with a good cuppa tea and be prepared to be entertained.
I want to thank Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of Christmas on the Coast by Rebecca Boxall for a fair and honest review.
November 21, 2017
When I picked this book, I was thinking that it would be a Christmas themed book, but it turned out to much more and in a good way. Yes, it was about Christmas, but more about family and the history they carry with them from generation to generation, the good and the bad. I am so glad that I picked this one up, it was such a good read.
Libby and Stella have been best friends since they were small children and now even as adults, they are pretty much inseparable. That is until, Stella learns of the reason behind the tension between their families all these years from her mother and wants nothing to do with Libby. A devastated Libby doesn’t understand and so close to the holiday’s, she goes looking for some answers from her parents. The journal her father gives her could shed some light on what happened all those years ago. Learning events that transpired all those years ago, and the truths behind some of the events revealed a lot to her about her own family as well as Stella’s. But the question was, would their friendship make it though it all?
The story is told from two different point of views, Libby in the present and Queenie from the past back in the 1940’s. Quennie’s journal entries during the when Nazi’s occupation and at time were emotional to see the things they went through. The horrible conditions, the hiding and they way they were treated. But Queenie had this way about her, I can’t explain it, she was a breath of fresh air during a time that was treacherous. Libby, on the hand, well her home is one of chaos. Her family is a mess and I think that she always felt that Stella was her rock. And with a family full of spoiled rotten children even the adult children, I would look a strong friend too and I did feel sorry for her. Libby’s parents were just amazing, reminded me of my own parents with the things they did. The other few characters from the past and present, were a good addition. I would have liked to learn more about quite a few of them too.
The stories from the past and present were weaved together very well, but I did find myself being drawn to the past more so than the present. The history behind it all was captivating and left me wanting to know more. I was pleased with the way the present day part of this went though, learning everything the way we did was such a great way to put all these people’s lives together and see how they all intertwined to make them in who they were today. It was a emotional story of forgiveness and love and one that will stay with me for a long time.
![”Jenea’s]()
Libby and Stella have been best friends since they were small children and now even as adults, they are pretty much inseparable. That is until, Stella learns of the reason behind the tension between their families all these years from her mother and wants nothing to do with Libby. A devastated Libby doesn’t understand and so close to the holiday’s, she goes looking for some answers from her parents. The journal her father gives her could shed some light on what happened all those years ago. Learning events that transpired all those years ago, and the truths behind some of the events revealed a lot to her about her own family as well as Stella’s. But the question was, would their friendship make it though it all?
The story is told from two different point of views, Libby in the present and Queenie from the past back in the 1940’s. Quennie’s journal entries during the when Nazi’s occupation and at time were emotional to see the things they went through. The horrible conditions, the hiding and they way they were treated. But Queenie had this way about her, I can’t explain it, she was a breath of fresh air during a time that was treacherous. Libby, on the hand, well her home is one of chaos. Her family is a mess and I think that she always felt that Stella was her rock. And with a family full of spoiled rotten children even the adult children, I would look a strong friend too and I did feel sorry for her. Libby’s parents were just amazing, reminded me of my own parents with the things they did. The other few characters from the past and present, were a good addition. I would have liked to learn more about quite a few of them too.
The stories from the past and present were weaved together very well, but I did find myself being drawn to the past more so than the present. The history behind it all was captivating and left me wanting to know more. I was pleased with the way the present day part of this went though, learning everything the way we did was such a great way to put all these people’s lives together and see how they all intertwined to make them in who they were today. It was a emotional story of forgiveness and love and one that will stay with me for a long time.
November 2, 2017
this is my first book by this author and I am usually sceptical about them if I don't know them but I was given a copy from netgalley so here I am.
as well as it being a new author it was a different kind of book I wasn't used to... historical fiction mixed with recent fiction.
each chapter it changes from recent times then 1941 during the German occupation of the isle Jersey.
there's jersey in 1941 set out as Queenies journal during the war and what happened with the run-up to christmas.
there's recent chapters of now. Libby has three children who are just using her for everything. she works she cooks she cleans up and does everything and No one helps. her daughter Amy is giving her none stop duties. then her mother has a fall so Libby goes to the mainland UK to help her parents with the run up but the family at home need her home once she starts enjoying freedom. she goes home restless and none stop running around for the festive season and everyone else. but before she went to England her best friends mum died and her best friend took an angry turn onto Libby over something from the past.her dad gives her Queenies journal from the war and finds out why stella is being cruel towards her or at least understand what lies have been talked about..... so this is all about friendship and will it survive the season after 40 years...
a brilliant read. I couldn't put it down
as well as it being a new author it was a different kind of book I wasn't used to... historical fiction mixed with recent fiction.
each chapter it changes from recent times then 1941 during the German occupation of the isle Jersey.
there's jersey in 1941 set out as Queenies journal during the war and what happened with the run-up to christmas.
there's recent chapters of now. Libby has three children who are just using her for everything. she works she cooks she cleans up and does everything and No one helps. her daughter Amy is giving her none stop duties. then her mother has a fall so Libby goes to the mainland UK to help her parents with the run up but the family at home need her home once she starts enjoying freedom. she goes home restless and none stop running around for the festive season and everyone else. but before she went to England her best friends mum died and her best friend took an angry turn onto Libby over something from the past.her dad gives her Queenies journal from the war and finds out why stella is being cruel towards her or at least understand what lies have been talked about..... so this is all about friendship and will it survive the season after 40 years...
a brilliant read. I couldn't put it down
January 13, 2018
On the island of Jersey, Libby does not feel the Christmas spirit. Her work with the police and her role as vicar's wife are overwhelming her. Her children also feel this and now Stella, her friend, is holding a family grudge that Libby is unsure about. When she reads her late great-aunt Queenie's diary she discovers a secret held during the Nazi occupation of Jersey in 1941. As she continues she begins to understand why these secrets still affect her family's life and Stella's. Will the Christmas spirit be able to help Libby, her family and Stella?
I became immersed in this book from the beginning. I felt like I understood what Libby, her family and Stella were experiencing. When I placed this book down, I wanted to pick it back up and continue. I enjoyed the writing as it seemed very personable, fun, humorous, at times and gave me a glimpse into these lives.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
I became immersed in this book from the beginning. I felt like I understood what Libby, her family and Stella were experiencing. When I placed this book down, I wanted to pick it back up and continue. I enjoyed the writing as it seemed very personable, fun, humorous, at times and gave me a glimpse into these lives.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
November 25, 2017
I had a hard time with this novel. This novel runs two stories side-by-side, one that is told by Libby in 2016 and another one which is labeled Queenie’s Journal, who was Libby’s great aunt, which was written in 1941. I found that I liked the journal better, although at times it didn’t seem like a journal. The journal answered many questions and it also revealed and validated the actions and views of the individuals she wrote about. I liked the mystery and the darkness that surrounded this part of the novel.
As I listened to Libby, I couldn’t believe how on edge she was. Her life seemed too extreme to be actually happening. Then when she served wine with omelets, I had to laugh. Who does this? I just didn’t care much for her and I thought she made a better character when she was with someone else. This novel was a good novel to put me in the Christmas spirit.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
As I listened to Libby, I couldn’t believe how on edge she was. Her life seemed too extreme to be actually happening. Then when she served wine with omelets, I had to laugh. Who does this? I just didn’t care much for her and I thought she made a better character when she was with someone else. This novel was a good novel to put me in the Christmas spirit.
I received a copy of this novel from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2017
With the story alternating between Queenie, a young woman living on a German-occupied Jersey, in the English Channel, and Libby, a police officer, vicar's wife, and mother of three in present-day Jersey, describing the similarities and differences between Christmas now and 1941. This is a fascinating read, as we learn how Queenie and Libby are connected and the challenges each woman faces. This is a fast read, with themes of friendship, family, and a bit of mystery. The characters were realistic and mostly likeable, and I cared about what happened to (most of) them. The feel-good ending wraps up loose ends and doesn't leave you wondering what happened with the characters from 1941. I'll definitely be reading more by Rebecca Boxall.
November 19, 2017
Libby has a very busy life as a police officer in Jersey, vicar's wife and mother to there troublesome children and so she really doesn't need it when her best friend stops talking to her because of some old family feud that she had never heard of! Then she gets to read the journal of Queenie from 1941 in occupied Jersey and starts to understand the history between the families.
A brilliant story the narrative alternates between Libby and Queenie and I loved both time frames but was especially fascinated by the descriptions of 1941 Jersey, it was definitely a book that I couldn't put down and so much more than the normal Christmas books. Rebecca Boxall is becoming one of my favourite authors
A brilliant story the narrative alternates between Libby and Queenie and I loved both time frames but was especially fascinated by the descriptions of 1941 Jersey, it was definitely a book that I couldn't put down and so much more than the normal Christmas books. Rebecca Boxall is becoming one of my favourite authors
November 22, 2017
Past and present Jersey memories
Excellent warm family story slipping between the hectic rush of Christmas preparations with the German rule of Jersey in WWII. Food, friendships, festivities, the dramas of Liberty's childre, her vicar husband and falling out with her best friend all realistically portrayed. As a perfect countrrfoil we read the diary of a farm girl and her family caught up in wartime rationing, hiding people in attics and dangerous encounters with the enemy. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, Rebecca Boxall's well researched festive tale is perfect to read in this festive season.
Excellent warm family story slipping between the hectic rush of Christmas preparations with the German rule of Jersey in WWII. Food, friendships, festivities, the dramas of Liberty's childre, her vicar husband and falling out with her best friend all realistically portrayed. As a perfect countrrfoil we read the diary of a farm girl and her family caught up in wartime rationing, hiding people in attics and dangerous encounters with the enemy. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, Rebecca Boxall's well researched festive tale is perfect to read in this festive season.
November 27, 2020
I enjoyed this short, dual-timeline Christmas story set on Jersey, in the Channel Islands. I often feel like I've read too many WWII books and don't get excited for more, but this one was new to me (especially since I haven't yet read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society). The wartime situation on the island was interesting, and I wanted to find out what was going to happen to these characters. Libby's storyline was a bit frustrating, but got better once she got away and stood up for herself. I recommend this short trip into Jersey history.
November 12, 2017
Stella's sudden grudge (really? seriously?) is the impetus for Libbie to explore the history of Jersey during WWII- a situation most will not be familiar with. Libbie is a strong woman with a lot on her plate- she's in law enforcement, married to a vicar, and dealing with a lot of family issues (those sons!). The last thing she needs is Stella being a snot. This is very well done historical fiction. Boxall uses Libbie's present day exploration of a 1941 diary to tell the story of the occupation of the Chanel Islands by the Nazis. Nicely written and well researched, this is more than a Christmas story, although it's quite in the spirit in the season. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
December 16, 2018
Nice easy to read book this one - I like to read Christmas books at this time of year! It's set on Jersey with the two main characters falling out on a somewhat thin premise to tell you the truth, but itv works well enough and all the characters are well written and the story moves along well. We were meant to read a Mills and Boon for my Christmas book group but I didn't have time to get one so this one will have to do instead, not that it's as cheesy as some of the Mills and Boons!
October 17, 2017
A Good Read
I couldn't put my Kindle down and was thoroughly wrapped up in the story. I particularly liked the way it moved gets the war and 2016. Sometimes this care feel very awkward but here it was seamless. All in all, a thoroughly good read.
I couldn't put my Kindle down and was thoroughly wrapped up in the story. I particularly liked the way it moved gets the war and 2016. Sometimes this care feel very awkward but here it was seamless. All in all, a thoroughly good read.
October 26, 2017
Wartime
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It isn't the sort of thing I read but was pleasantly surprised and couldn't put it down.such a fantastic storyline thankyou.
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It isn't the sort of thing I read but was pleasantly surprised and couldn't put it down.such a fantastic storyline thankyou.
November 9, 2017
Wonderful, couldn't put it down, thoroughly enjoyed this thoughtful story.
January 3, 2018
Beautiful Christmas story
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