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Lavender Bay #1
Spring at Lavender Bay
A season for change…?
Beth Reynolds loved growing up close to Eleanor’s Emporium – a bric-a-brac shop full of wonders on Lavender Bay. Devastated to learn that Eleanor has died, she returns home from London immediately and is shocked to discover that the elderly lady has left the shop to her!
Vowing to restore it to its former glory, she only intends to stay until the end of the season. Although the longer she spends in the colourful seaside town, the more she falls back in love with everything she left behind…and quite possibly, with her best friend Eliza’s older brother, local chef Sam Barnes!
Why didn’t she notice he was quite this gorgeous before? And will their spring fling be enough to convince her to stay?
Don’t miss Spring at Lavender Bay, the first book in the enchanting Lavender Bay trilogy! Perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley, Rachael Lucas and Hilary Boyd.
Beth Reynolds loved growing up close to Eleanor’s Emporium – a bric-a-brac shop full of wonders on Lavender Bay. Devastated to learn that Eleanor has died, she returns home from London immediately and is shocked to discover that the elderly lady has left the shop to her!
Vowing to restore it to its former glory, she only intends to stay until the end of the season. Although the longer she spends in the colourful seaside town, the more she falls back in love with everything she left behind…and quite possibly, with her best friend Eliza’s older brother, local chef Sam Barnes!
Why didn’t she notice he was quite this gorgeous before? And will their spring fling be enough to convince her to stay?
Don’t miss Spring at Lavender Bay, the first book in the enchanting Lavender Bay trilogy! Perfect for fans of Trisha Ashley, Rachael Lucas and Hilary Boyd.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2018
433 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Bennett
29 books292 followersSarah Bennett has been reading for as long as she can remember. Raised in a family of bookworms, her love affair with books of all genres has culminated in the ultimate Happy Ever After – getting to write her own stories to share with others.
Born and raised in a military family, she is happily married to her own Officer (who is sometimes even A Gentleman). Home is wherever he lays his hat, and life has taught them both that the best family is the one you create from friends as well as relatives.
When not reading or writing, Sarah is a devotee of afternoon naps and sailing the high seas, but only on vessels large enough to accommodate a casino and a choice of restaurants.
You can connect with her via twitter @Sarahlou_writes or on Facebook www.facebook.com/SarahBennettAuthor
Sarah is the author of the Butterfly Cove, Lavender Bay and Bluebell Castle series for HQ Digital UK.
Born and raised in a military family, she is happily married to her own Officer (who is sometimes even A Gentleman). Home is wherever he lays his hat, and life has taught them both that the best family is the one you create from friends as well as relatives.
When not reading or writing, Sarah is a devotee of afternoon naps and sailing the high seas, but only on vessels large enough to accommodate a casino and a choice of restaurants.
You can connect with her via twitter @Sarahlou_writes or on Facebook www.facebook.com/SarahBennettAuthor
Sarah is the author of the Butterfly Cove, Lavender Bay and Bluebell Castle series for HQ Digital UK.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
July 5, 2020
This is one of those instances, where I really wish GR introduced the half-star rating.
It is certainly better than 2 stars, but I feel it does not deserve a clean 3 stars for a rather pleasant and light, but all in all too banal story.
This was my first book by Sarah Bennett and I requested the ARC partly because a lot of my GR friends praised her "Butterfly Cove"-series and partly because of the cute cover/story setting.
I mean: pretty, little seaside town, in serious need of a makeover?? Yess, totally my kind of story, bring it on!!
However, I found the book rather underwhelming and the MC, Beth, seriously frustrating. It is one thing when the heroine starts out as a kind of doormat and self-doubting person in the beginning as long as there is some noticeable character development by the end. I did not really feel this happened here especially as almost before the very end we are delivered the possibly most hackneyed trope of chick-lit ever just to add extra pages and some fake drama.
Overall it did not improve the stock-romance between a boy-and-girl-next door and left me with a feeling of annoyance.
I am not tempted to go on reading the upcoming book in the series.
ARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It is certainly better than 2 stars, but I feel it does not deserve a clean 3 stars for a rather pleasant and light, but all in all too banal story.
This was my first book by Sarah Bennett and I requested the ARC partly because a lot of my GR friends praised her "Butterfly Cove"-series and partly because of the cute cover/story setting.
I mean: pretty, little seaside town, in serious need of a makeover?? Yess, totally my kind of story, bring it on!!
However, I found the book rather underwhelming and the MC, Beth, seriously frustrating. It is one thing when the heroine starts out as a kind of doormat and self-doubting person in the beginning as long as there is some noticeable character development by the end. I did not really feel this happened here especially as almost before the very end we are delivered the possibly most hackneyed trope of chick-lit ever just to add extra pages and some fake drama.
Overall it did not improve the stock-romance between a boy-and-girl-next door and left me with a feeling of annoyance.
I am not tempted to go on reading the upcoming book in the series.
ARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2018
4.25 stars.
Sarah Bennett’s Butterfly Cove series was one of my favourites of both 2017 and the genre, so to say I was a teeny bit eager to pack my bags and head off to discover what treats Lavender Bay held for me, is a bit of an understatement. And those treats come in the form of Beth, Eliza and Libby: lifelong friends who may have miles separating them but haven’t lost the tight bond they share.
It didn’t need to be anything serious, a spring fling, maybe leading to a summer romance if they were both so inclined.”
Beth’s return to Lavender Bay isn’t under the happiest of circumstances but it quickly becomes evident that one resident in particular is over the moon to see her—Eliza’s older brother Sam *insert happy sighs here*. And whilst he and Beth and their burgeoning feelings are at the heart of this story, it isn’t just theirs with introductions to the residents, their relationships and the wealth of possibility they will bring to the series along the way.
I was dropped right into the centre of the bay, quickly falling in love with the scenery, the characters and the stories unfolding around them. For a large part of the book, Beth and Sam’s relationship simmered in the background with the focus laying on the girls’ friendship, their personalities, families and pasts, and for me this worked well in creating build-up for Beth and Sam who have a natural ease around one another highlighting their fun natures, but also that wariness crossing the line between friends and lovers brings.
You’re mine, Sam Barnes, do you hear me? For as long as this fling between us lasts. You. Are. Mine.”
Spring at Lavender Bay is a delightful read full of love, life and pursuing your dreams and I’m looking forward to seeing where life will lead Libby and Eliza. One word of warning though, if you’re cutting back on the sweet stuff beware, because Sam has mad baking skills and I could murder one of his concoctions right now.
Copy received courtesy of HQ Digital via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Sarah Bennett’s Butterfly Cove series was one of my favourites of both 2017 and the genre, so to say I was a teeny bit eager to pack my bags and head off to discover what treats Lavender Bay held for me, is a bit of an understatement. And those treats come in the form of Beth, Eliza and Libby: lifelong friends who may have miles separating them but haven’t lost the tight bond they share.
It didn’t need to be anything serious, a spring fling, maybe leading to a summer romance if they were both so inclined.”
Beth’s return to Lavender Bay isn’t under the happiest of circumstances but it quickly becomes evident that one resident in particular is over the moon to see her—Eliza’s older brother Sam *insert happy sighs here*. And whilst he and Beth and their burgeoning feelings are at the heart of this story, it isn’t just theirs with introductions to the residents, their relationships and the wealth of possibility they will bring to the series along the way.
I was dropped right into the centre of the bay, quickly falling in love with the scenery, the characters and the stories unfolding around them. For a large part of the book, Beth and Sam’s relationship simmered in the background with the focus laying on the girls’ friendship, their personalities, families and pasts, and for me this worked well in creating build-up for Beth and Sam who have a natural ease around one another highlighting their fun natures, but also that wariness crossing the line between friends and lovers brings.
You’re mine, Sam Barnes, do you hear me? For as long as this fling between us lasts. You. Are. Mine.”
Spring at Lavender Bay is a delightful read full of love, life and pursuing your dreams and I’m looking forward to seeing where life will lead Libby and Eliza. One word of warning though, if you’re cutting back on the sweet stuff beware, because Sam has mad baking skills and I could murder one of his concoctions right now.
Copy received courtesy of HQ Digital via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 27, 2018
3 -
Let’s have a spring fling!
Stars!
Sarah Bennett, begins her new Lavender Bay series with Spring, an albeit easy, but pretty underwhelming read.
"It’s a bad idea…"
I loved this authors previous series; Butterfly Cove and have since also discovered that she writes erotica under another name, the two novellas of which I have also read and enjoyed, so I started Spring at Lavender Bay with high expectations.
What the author did deliver on was characters and locale, I loved the scene she set with regards to Lavender Bay itself, as well as Beth and her friends Libby and Eliza, and the wealth of secondary characters introduced also ticked all the expected boxes, but what I found lacking was the story line between her and Sam, and the drama in general.
"If things were different…"
"But they’re not."
"No, they’re not."
Don’t get me wrong, this was still a pretty enjoyable beginning to the series, and as I already said, the author introduced everyone and set the scene really well, but I was expecting to feel more invested, everything just sort of muddled along with them both not seeing much of each other due to their work lives, then in the next breath love was declared and all should have been well. But it turns out Beth is a runner, that frustrated me somewhat too because to be honest there wasn’t much reason for it, and it seemed to be added just to give a little drama to the end of what was a pretty lacklustre story.
You won’t struggle to read this book, but you may struggle to remember it a couple of months down the line. That said, I am looking forward to spending some time in the summer in Lavender Bay with the next book due for release in July. This is an author that is still an auto-buy for me, but maybe my expectations were just a little too high on this occasion.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Sarah Bennett, begins her new Lavender Bay series with Spring, an albeit easy, but pretty underwhelming read.
"It’s a bad idea…"
I loved this authors previous series; Butterfly Cove and have since also discovered that she writes erotica under another name, the two novellas of which I have also read and enjoyed, so I started Spring at Lavender Bay with high expectations.
What the author did deliver on was characters and locale, I loved the scene she set with regards to Lavender Bay itself, as well as Beth and her friends Libby and Eliza, and the wealth of secondary characters introduced also ticked all the expected boxes, but what I found lacking was the story line between her and Sam, and the drama in general.
"If things were different…"
"But they’re not."
"No, they’re not."
Don’t get me wrong, this was still a pretty enjoyable beginning to the series, and as I already said, the author introduced everyone and set the scene really well, but I was expecting to feel more invested, everything just sort of muddled along with them both not seeing much of each other due to their work lives, then in the next breath love was declared and all should have been well. But it turns out Beth is a runner, that frustrated me somewhat too because to be honest there wasn’t much reason for it, and it seemed to be added just to give a little drama to the end of what was a pretty lacklustre story.
You won’t struggle to read this book, but you may struggle to remember it a couple of months down the line. That said, I am looking forward to spending some time in the summer in Lavender Bay with the next book due for release in July. This is an author that is still an auto-buy for me, but maybe my expectations were just a little too high on this occasion.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
February 5, 2018
I became a fan of Sarah Bennett last year when I jumped in part way in her Butterfly Cove series so I was so pleased to be able to start her new series at the first book. She has a lovely way with words and writes the sweetest romances with realistic and wholly relatable characters that you can’t help but fall in love with! Add in an idyllic, quaint setting and you have the perfect recipe for a charming read.
This book introduces us to three friends, Libby, Eliza and Beth and focuses primarily on Beth though it provides enough of an introduction to both the residents of Lavender Bay and the town itself that I’m eager to see what happens in the next two books. Beth was a sweet person and I loved her friendship with Libby and Eliza, they have a blast together and have genuine relationships. As much as this is a romance there is a heavy emphasis on the importance of female friendships and a strong sense of community spirit and goodwill as well making it a perfect read for those that don’t want a cheesy, over the top romance novel. There’s a bit of drama as well to keep things interesting and the dash of romance was a combination of sweet and spicy with a side of adorable. I can’t wait to read the next book this summer!
Spring at Lavender Bay in three words: Cute, Picturesque and Endearing.
This book introduces us to three friends, Libby, Eliza and Beth and focuses primarily on Beth though it provides enough of an introduction to both the residents of Lavender Bay and the town itself that I’m eager to see what happens in the next two books. Beth was a sweet person and I loved her friendship with Libby and Eliza, they have a blast together and have genuine relationships. As much as this is a romance there is a heavy emphasis on the importance of female friendships and a strong sense of community spirit and goodwill as well making it a perfect read for those that don’t want a cheesy, over the top romance novel. There’s a bit of drama as well to keep things interesting and the dash of romance was a combination of sweet and spicy with a side of adorable. I can’t wait to read the next book this summer!
Spring at Lavender Bay in three words: Cute, Picturesque and Endearing.
February 25, 2018
DNF at 35%.
I adored Sarah Bennett's Butterfly Cove series so I was stoked to see this up for request at NetGalley.
Sadly, after two attempts I just couldn't get into this book.
Beth Reynolds spent the best part of her childhood at Lavender Bay but left to forge a career in London. However, when her mentor Eleanor dies and leaves her Eleanor's Emporium in Lavender Bay she burns her boats and comes back home.
There are plenty of characters and old school friends but I didn't warm to anyone and at over a third through the book I just had the overwhelming feeling that nothing was happening, and frankly I didn't care.
I've been on a book downer this year so maybe I'm being overly harsh but I just didn't feel interest in finishing the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
I adored Sarah Bennett's Butterfly Cove series so I was stoked to see this up for request at NetGalley.
Sadly, after two attempts I just couldn't get into this book.
Beth Reynolds spent the best part of her childhood at Lavender Bay but left to forge a career in London. However, when her mentor Eleanor dies and leaves her Eleanor's Emporium in Lavender Bay she burns her boats and comes back home.
There are plenty of characters and old school friends but I didn't warm to anyone and at over a third through the book I just had the overwhelming feeling that nothing was happening, and frankly I didn't care.
I've been on a book downer this year so maybe I'm being overly harsh but I just didn't feel interest in finishing the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
March 2, 2018
The story goes thus, Beth returns back to Lavender Bay on the death of Eleanor and finds herself inheriting her shop Eleanor's Emporium. Determined to restore the shop to its past glory and return back, she soon finds herself captured by Lavender Bay, its residents, and the entire seaside town. But most importantly by Sam, her friend Eliza's brother and his killer looks.
My first book by the author Sarah Bennett, I often read such light books, when I need a break from intense stories and this book formed the perfect accompaniment to my afternoon tea. The author introduces us to the 3 best friends, Beth, Libby and Elizabeth, but this is Beth's story with the others having their own book to tell their story
Though there is romance between Sam and Beth, it is the rest of the characters, relationships, friendships and family, which rounds up this book, making it one of the heartwarming stories. The friendship between the 3 women forms the core of the book.
Beth and Sam form the perfect couple with their level of comfort with each other along with sizzles of attraction. This book embodies all the goodness in the world, where friendships and relationships matter, where love and life abound and where community and people matter.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher HQ Digital, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
My first book by the author Sarah Bennett, I often read such light books, when I need a break from intense stories and this book formed the perfect accompaniment to my afternoon tea. The author introduces us to the 3 best friends, Beth, Libby and Elizabeth, but this is Beth's story with the others having their own book to tell their story
Though there is romance between Sam and Beth, it is the rest of the characters, relationships, friendships and family, which rounds up this book, making it one of the heartwarming stories. The friendship between the 3 women forms the core of the book.
Beth and Sam form the perfect couple with their level of comfort with each other along with sizzles of attraction. This book embodies all the goodness in the world, where friendships and relationships matter, where love and life abound and where community and people matter.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher HQ Digital, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 1, 2018
I was excited to have a chance to read the first book in the new series, Lavender Bay.
Beth was taken in by a neighbor as a teenager when her mother left Lavender Bay. She has grown very close to the woman and is heartbroken upon her death. Now this is when the real fun starts, but not really since this is when changes begin. Beth has been left the emporium but she lives in a flat elsewhere and has a job as well. She packs it in though and returns home. She starts to make changes to the emporium and let me tell you not everyone is happy to the repairs and changes she is making!
Feel good romance and friendships just make you feel happy!
Wonderful read, I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Pub Date 22 Feb 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for a review copy. I was not required to write a positive review.
Beth was taken in by a neighbor as a teenager when her mother left Lavender Bay. She has grown very close to the woman and is heartbroken upon her death. Now this is when the real fun starts, but not really since this is when changes begin. Beth has been left the emporium but she lives in a flat elsewhere and has a job as well. She packs it in though and returns home. She starts to make changes to the emporium and let me tell you not everyone is happy to the repairs and changes she is making!
Feel good romance and friendships just make you feel happy!
Wonderful read, I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Pub Date 22 Feb 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital for a review copy. I was not required to write a positive review.
February 2, 2018
The characters here just never connected with me. The story was too messy and not properly developed. Beth teetered back and forth from just plain rude to whiny and childish. Sam had an unnatural way of talking about Beth as a child while at the same time trying to get into her pants as an adult.
Nothing clicked here for me. I sound rather have read about Libby and Mr Stone.
Nothing clicked here for me. I sound rather have read about Libby and Mr Stone.
February 22, 2018
This is the first book in the lavender bay series and I loved Sarah's first series and can really see enjoying this series to as full of romance and finding out uwho you really are and finding a new life for herself and being with friends and in a place she loves and not following her mums dreams. Very well written with great characters and wonderful story line and has you thinking and very heartwarming.
Beth was born in lavender bay and when her mother moved away to start a new life she moved in with a neighbour to finish her schooling. She wants to please her mum and moves to the city but although she has a boyfriend is very unhappy. Her boyfriend finishes with her and Eleanor who brought her up passes away leaving everything for Beth so she moves back to the bay and can she make a go if it with old and new friends and be happy and find out what really is best for her or not.
This is a must read as such a great book highly recommend it. Well done Sarah can't wait for the next book.
Beth was born in lavender bay and when her mother moved away to start a new life she moved in with a neighbour to finish her schooling. She wants to please her mum and moves to the city but although she has a boyfriend is very unhappy. Her boyfriend finishes with her and Eleanor who brought her up passes away leaving everything for Beth so she moves back to the bay and can she make a go if it with old and new friends and be happy and find out what really is best for her or not.
This is a must read as such a great book highly recommend it. Well done Sarah can't wait for the next book.
August 5, 2018
This is my first book by Sarah Bennett and it won't be my last. I enjoy these fun, romantic stories on the coast in the UK. Beth returns to Lavender Cove for the funeral of Eleanor, the woman who raised her. When she finds out that Eleanor has left the Emporium to her, she needs to figure out what to do with it. She lives in London, not Lavender Bay. When she returns to London, she realizes that there is nothing there for her, she has broken up from her boyfriend and the promotion at work seems to be going to someone else. Time to go back home.
This story is filled with great characters, friendships and memories. Eliza, Libby and Beth (all named Elizabeth, so they had to take on nicknames) have been best friends all their lives. I love the relationship these ladies share. The others in Lavender Bay all love them as well and support whatever they are trying to do.When trouble brews, the people in the town are there to help. When romance is in the air, friends promote and encourage and when emotions boil over, friends are able to calm and support. A wonderful story filled with love, loyalty, friendship, a bit of angst and happy endings. I am definitely going to read the next one in this series. The publisher, HQ Digital, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The opinions shared are my own.
This story is filled with great characters, friendships and memories. Eliza, Libby and Beth (all named Elizabeth, so they had to take on nicknames) have been best friends all their lives. I love the relationship these ladies share. The others in Lavender Bay all love them as well and support whatever they are trying to do.When trouble brews, the people in the town are there to help. When romance is in the air, friends promote and encourage and when emotions boil over, friends are able to calm and support. A wonderful story filled with love, loyalty, friendship, a bit of angst and happy endings. I am definitely going to read the next one in this series. The publisher, HQ Digital, generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The opinions shared are my own.
February 10, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
After falling in love with the authors first serial (and not just because it contained the word 'Butterfly'), I had absolutely no idea how she was going to trump that serial. I mean really, if you've read the 'Butterfly Cove' series, you'll know fine well what I'm talking about. Whilst I knew deep down that Sarah Bennett would not disappoint, I felt like I was cheating on the characters of the previous series. I think I have a problem - I struggled to let them go!
After giving myself a pep talk and telling myself that the previous bunch of characters would be happy that I've moved on, knowing that I would never forget them (ahem), I snuggled down in bed with 'Spring at Lavender Bay', excited to see what waited for me beyond the front cover...
Oh Sarah Bennett, what have you done to me woman!!!! I knew it all along that this author wouldn't disappoint with her new book, after all she never disappoints me with any of the books she produces, but reading about Beth's new venture made me feel like I was coming home. How? I have absolutely no idea, but it did. I cannot explain it. I really wish I could. All I know is that Sarah Bennett is an absolute genius.
Poor Beth Reynolds was merely going through the motions in her day to day life. Feeling as though she had the weight on her shoulders, Beth's day gets a lot worse when she finds out someone she knew has passed away. From then on, everything else that was bothering her seemed unimportant and frivolous. Life is far too short to be working with a twonkwomble, right?
What I loved most about Beth was how real she was. She didn't pretend to be something she wasn't which, considering the amount of rubbish she had gone through in such a short space of time, is highly commendable. I adored the community spirit which seemed to engulf the storyline from the get go, holding Beth up when things became too much for her to handle (or when she decided to give up after a short amount of time). Even though I could understand why she felt like giving up, the way she went about it really irked me as it was like she was slapping all of the people who went out of their way to help her, round their faces. I'm probably going to sound a little mean here, but I found her to be a little selfish because of that. That said, I still absolutely loved her as she was hilarious and, like I said above, real.
The storyline itself is full of hilarious anecdotes, heart-warming situations, and enough love to warm every single person's hearts ten times over. Yes it was pretty clear where a certain situation was heading, but weirdly enough, it didn't bother me as it just fit with the vibe of the book and everything the storyline stood for. A match made in heaven if you will.
'Spring at Lavender Bay' highlights the importance of not giving up, regardless of how hard things are. It also highlights the importance of bouncing back, even after you have given up. If something is worth doing, it's worth doing right. If you really want something, you'll walk through fire and rain to do it. Plus, more importantly, it made me realise that there is always someone there for you - the one's who really love you will always be by your side, regardless of the time.
Sarah Bennett's new book brought many smiles to my face, made me giggle like a little child, and brought tears to my eyes due to sadness and warmth. This new series has started off with a bang and, in al honesty, it truly is the start of something incredibly special.
Delightful, touching, beautiful, and the hug in a book I so desperately needed, Sarah Bennett has written a story which will be there for you in your time of need. A story which will hug you from the inside out, reminding you that even books can be there for you when you need someone to care. A story which will make you realise that showing negative emotion is in no way a bad thing, so why hide it? I wish I could bottle up the feeling this book gave me, just so that I could hold onto it forever. Especially when I'm feeling lonely.
This is.....beautiful.
After falling in love with the authors first serial (and not just because it contained the word 'Butterfly'), I had absolutely no idea how she was going to trump that serial. I mean really, if you've read the 'Butterfly Cove' series, you'll know fine well what I'm talking about. Whilst I knew deep down that Sarah Bennett would not disappoint, I felt like I was cheating on the characters of the previous series. I think I have a problem - I struggled to let them go!
After giving myself a pep talk and telling myself that the previous bunch of characters would be happy that I've moved on, knowing that I would never forget them (ahem), I snuggled down in bed with 'Spring at Lavender Bay', excited to see what waited for me beyond the front cover...
Oh Sarah Bennett, what have you done to me woman!!!! I knew it all along that this author wouldn't disappoint with her new book, after all she never disappoints me with any of the books she produces, but reading about Beth's new venture made me feel like I was coming home. How? I have absolutely no idea, but it did. I cannot explain it. I really wish I could. All I know is that Sarah Bennett is an absolute genius.
Poor Beth Reynolds was merely going through the motions in her day to day life. Feeling as though she had the weight on her shoulders, Beth's day gets a lot worse when she finds out someone she knew has passed away. From then on, everything else that was bothering her seemed unimportant and frivolous. Life is far too short to be working with a twonkwomble, right?
What I loved most about Beth was how real she was. She didn't pretend to be something she wasn't which, considering the amount of rubbish she had gone through in such a short space of time, is highly commendable. I adored the community spirit which seemed to engulf the storyline from the get go, holding Beth up when things became too much for her to handle (or when she decided to give up after a short amount of time). Even though I could understand why she felt like giving up, the way she went about it really irked me as it was like she was slapping all of the people who went out of their way to help her, round their faces. I'm probably going to sound a little mean here, but I found her to be a little selfish because of that. That said, I still absolutely loved her as she was hilarious and, like I said above, real.
The storyline itself is full of hilarious anecdotes, heart-warming situations, and enough love to warm every single person's hearts ten times over. Yes it was pretty clear where a certain situation was heading, but weirdly enough, it didn't bother me as it just fit with the vibe of the book and everything the storyline stood for. A match made in heaven if you will.
'Spring at Lavender Bay' highlights the importance of not giving up, regardless of how hard things are. It also highlights the importance of bouncing back, even after you have given up. If something is worth doing, it's worth doing right. If you really want something, you'll walk through fire and rain to do it. Plus, more importantly, it made me realise that there is always someone there for you - the one's who really love you will always be by your side, regardless of the time.
Sarah Bennett's new book brought many smiles to my face, made me giggle like a little child, and brought tears to my eyes due to sadness and warmth. This new series has started off with a bang and, in al honesty, it truly is the start of something incredibly special.
Delightful, touching, beautiful, and the hug in a book I so desperately needed, Sarah Bennett has written a story which will be there for you in your time of need. A story which will hug you from the inside out, reminding you that even books can be there for you when you need someone to care. A story which will make you realise that showing negative emotion is in no way a bad thing, so why hide it? I wish I could bottle up the feeling this book gave me, just so that I could hold onto it forever. Especially when I'm feeling lonely.
This is.....beautiful.
February 22, 2018
Beth gets left the Emporium b.y the lady who took her in as a teenager. She is keen to make it a going concern so that she has an option to sell it. She loves being back amongst friends in Lavender Bay and they take one of their own back into their hearts. She starts to feel at home and sorts out plans for the shop. I loved her friendships and the way everyone rallies round. I also loved the romance You feel a part of the shop coming together and the lovely romance creates a real feel good feeling around the book.
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series to see where we will explore next.
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series to see where we will explore next.
March 28, 2018
Beth is having a rough month: missing her friends back in Lavender Bay, frustrated with work and a dotard for a boss, a depressing bed-sit that takes much of her salary and still wondering how to explain to her absent but very overly critical mother that she’s not got the ‘boyfriend of her mother’s dreams’ after all. And then, the biggest hit: Eleanor, the woman who took her in as a teen and provided her with love, acceptance and security has died, and left her a shop and apartment on the towns promenade. Hating her job, and dreaming just a little bit, she thinks that perhaps she can run the shop and be among friends in the only place that ever felt like home to her, despite disappointing her mother now a charter member of the botox-bridge club in Florida where she lives with her new-ish husband.
Coming home where her best friend Libby is running the Fish & Chip shop with her father, next door to her other best friend Eliza’s parents’ pub, where her brother Sam has stepped in as his father is ill, with plenty of skype time (and several visits from Eliza – now married and living ‘away’, and not really happy) she’s back home with a mountain of decisions to make, and plenty to learn. And when you add Sam into the mix, Eliza’s older brother who always looked out for her, but now is looking out for her and causing all sorts of unsettling feelings – she’s certain he’s only wanting to be a friend, despite the lingering looks and a mad kiss….
Bennett takes readers through the changes for Beth: her fears about being able to run the shop, all she needs to learn, her worries about ‘failing’ and even her moments of utter despair when she discovers her ex is marrying and her mother, never supportive in the best of times, will lose her mind when she learns that Beth wants to stay in Lavender Bay. With a penchant for running when the going gets tough, it takes Sam to drag her back and show her that home, or the home she wants, is in her grasp, and while she mightn’t have the family she hoped for growing up – she has a chance to build her life in ways that she had only dreamed of growing up – if only she’d take it. This was a story that was full of friendship, support, caring and a solid sense of place and home: allowing readers to cheer on Beth, sigh over Sam’s loving care for her, enjoy her friends and yearn for the support that the community brings to one of their own.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Coming home where her best friend Libby is running the Fish & Chip shop with her father, next door to her other best friend Eliza’s parents’ pub, where her brother Sam has stepped in as his father is ill, with plenty of skype time (and several visits from Eliza – now married and living ‘away’, and not really happy) she’s back home with a mountain of decisions to make, and plenty to learn. And when you add Sam into the mix, Eliza’s older brother who always looked out for her, but now is looking out for her and causing all sorts of unsettling feelings – she’s certain he’s only wanting to be a friend, despite the lingering looks and a mad kiss….
Bennett takes readers through the changes for Beth: her fears about being able to run the shop, all she needs to learn, her worries about ‘failing’ and even her moments of utter despair when she discovers her ex is marrying and her mother, never supportive in the best of times, will lose her mind when she learns that Beth wants to stay in Lavender Bay. With a penchant for running when the going gets tough, it takes Sam to drag her back and show her that home, or the home she wants, is in her grasp, and while she mightn’t have the family she hoped for growing up – she has a chance to build her life in ways that she had only dreamed of growing up – if only she’d take it. This was a story that was full of friendship, support, caring and a solid sense of place and home: allowing readers to cheer on Beth, sigh over Sam’s loving care for her, enjoy her friends and yearn for the support that the community brings to one of their own.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
April 1, 2018
This is a good beginning to the new series, Lavender Bay. There are two more books in the works. Three friends, Beth, Eliza and Libby grew up together in the lovely small town and Beth returns to bury the wonderful woman who raised her. Eleanor left Beth Eleanor's Emporium, the small shop that tourist love when they visit the small British beach.. She decides to stay to keep the business open and discovers that Sam is still in town and not married. Torn between selling the property to a developer and returning to London or being happy and exploring her options with Sam she must face the disaster that almost makes the decision a moot point. A light cute romantic story.
February 10, 2018
The Blurb :
Beth Reynolds loved growing up close to Eleanor’s Emporium – a bric-a-brac shop full of wonders on Lavender Bay. Devastated to learn that Eleanor has died, she returns home from London immediately and is shocked to discover that the elderly lady has left the shop to her!
Vowing to restore it to its former glory, she only intends to stay until the end of the season. Although the longer she spends in the colourful seaside town, the more she falls back in love with everything she left behind…and quite possibly, with her best friend Eliza’s older brother, local chef Sam Barnes!
Why didn’t she notice he was quite this gorgeous before? And will their spring fling be enough to convince her to stay?.
My Thoughts :
Part of a new series, Spring in Lavender Bay is the first of three books set in the Bay.
We meet Beth Reynolds and her two best friends, Libby and Eliza. Primarily this first book focuses on the life of Beth, so I am guessing the next two books will focus on the other best friends.
Living in London, Beth is in a job she hates and a flat that is damp. When she gets unexpected news that Eleanor, the woman who brought her up when she was younger has died suddenly, Beth hot foots it back to Lavender Bay for the funeral and gets more than she was expecting when she is told Eleanor has left everything including her seafront shop the Emporium to Beth in her will.
As Beth has to make a decsion weather to sell or run the shop, she has also had a thing for her best friends brother, Sam Barnes over the years and it seems Sam is back in the bay to help put his mum whille his dad is very sick. As sparks fly and theres a lot will they, wont they moments we are in for a treat as Lavender Bay delivers not only a beautiful seaside setting but wonderful charactors, drama, friendships, romance and adventures.
Sarah Bennett, once again gives her readers a series that is sure to be a winner. Looking forward to book two, Summer at Lavender Bay.
July 30, 2018
Just gonna say it, Sam is kinda perfect. Looking forward to the next two books in this series.
April 8, 2018
Spring at Lavender Bay is the first in a new trilogy from author Sarah Bennett. I read and enjoyed her Butterfly Cove series last year and it seems if the formula isn't broken why change things? By this I mean similar to the Butterfly Cove series these new stories will again follow three women, this time close friends rather than sisters, as they navigate the troubles and turmoil’s forced upon them by everyday life as well as seeking some love along the way. Whether they are actively looking for this love or whether it finds them remains to be seen?
Suffice to say this was nice, easy introduction to the series and I thoroughly liked our main character Beth Reynolds. Yes, there was a slight air of inevitability as to how everything would pan out for all involved but the journey to reach that point was pleasant. Spring at Lavender Bay is a very quick read and ideal for those that have a few spare hours and want something to take them away from the stresses of everyday life. It won't tax you in any way or require immense physical concentration as to keep on top of the story. Instead it provides you with a classic romance story with some worries and strains for all involved as the path to true love and happiness is never an easy one to overcome.
Beth has spent three years working in London in a project management company where she slaves away from dawn until dusk at her desk for very little reward or praise. She is overworked and constantly taken for granted by the 'men' in place above her. Any extra work always falls her way and she can't refuse it for fear of being overlooked if a promotion did arise. Clearly Beth has is a hard worker and in being so has let other aspects of her life slide. Most noticeably the romance element or this could be more to do with the fact she had been badly burned by a recent relationship experience which has turned her off love. But there is a very small part of Beth that clings to a glimmer of hope that true love could be out there for her. Either way Beth is reaching a crossroads in her life.
Having left Lavender Bay and her guardian Eleanor, who runs the emporium on the seafront, for London she can barely admit to herself that really she is lonely. She never thought she would miss everyone and although she keeps in close contact through Skype with friends Libby and Eliza it's just not the same. 'Lately she had come to the realisation that she was being used whilst others reaped the rewards. Demotivated and demoralised she was well and truly stuck in a cubicle shaped rut'.
With such a terrible boss, a more or less disappointing job and a single room in a run down house in a city where she feels alienated and lost this was not the future Beth had envisaged for herself when she left the bay. It was all 'such a far cry from the perfect flat, the perfect boyfriend, the perfect life she'd thought she had once. She was so far from her ambitions and expectations, and with no idea how to get out of the rut'. Unfortunately a way out of the hole Beth finds herself in does present itself but really not in the best of circumstances. Eleanor has passed away from a heart attack and Beth is left bereft, her guardian, her rock, her sounding board is now gone and guilt eats away at her that she didn't visit as often as she should have.
Eleanor took the place of her mother when she remarried and moved to America. She became a close confidant and the mother figure she so desperately needed and now that support system is gone for ever. But Eleanor was a clever person who could sense Beth needed motivation, a focus and a new goal. In her will she leaves Beth the emporium, at first little does Beth realise this is exactly what she needs to get her going again. Before she knows it she has quit her job and is back in Lavender Bay. The scene where Beth finally stood up to her boss was brilliant and it came across as if Beth was getting a huge weight off her shoulders ready to start afresh a new period in her life.
The emporium is very much what I would call a huckster shop, where a little bit of everything is sold and you see things you didn't even realise you needed or wanted but are powerless to resist them. The shop may have fallen into slight disrepair and the goods may not be in as keeping with the times but Beth after much indecision decides to give things a go. She wanted to do the same with regards to her friendship with Eliza and Libby. 'It had been so long since the three of them had been together. They'd been drifting apart, not consciously but life had pulled them in different directions. No more though, not if Beth could help it'.
Eliza and Libby are all she has left. Even if Eliza is living away with her husband Martin and Libby is run off her feet in the chip shop she runs with her father. After she made her decision I found the shop took more of a back seat, apart from a major incident near the end. Beth's personal life became centre stage and things seem to happen very fast and I thought there needed to be a little more fleshing out of certain scenarios. After all Beth had been through a lot and shouldn't have just jumped head first into things without thinking things through clearly.
Beth was certainly a character who needed her confidence to grow, for it to be encouraged and nurtured. This came in the form of Eliza's brother, chef Sam Barnes. Like Beth he had big dreams outside of Lavender Bay, he wanted to be a successful chef and had already trained in Paris but his fathers illness called him back to run the family pub. It was evident Sam felt stifled in the pub, that his creative talents around food weren't being stretched but yet he was selfless in that he gave p his dreams and aspirations to help his family when they needed him the most.
I loved Sam as a character, everything about him seemed to true and genuine. He didn't want to hurt anyone and I enjoyed seeing the feelings emerge between himself and Beth. He could see Beth wasn't always in the best of places emotionally and mentally and he provided her with time, care and attention. He offers her love and care but is she willing to accept it? On one hand I would say there was a lot of toing and froing between the pair, so much indecision and uncertainty but on the other elements of their story felt very rushed and it seemed as if some parts of the story were glossed over or as if I had missed out on conversations.
There was actually a significant part to the story where midway Beth receives some news that really throws her. Maybe it was the copy of the book that I was reading but it was as if three or four pages were missing and I kept re-reading thinking hold on why is she talking about this? One minute she is looking at her phone and then the next she is upset but I couldn't work out why, this proved frustrating for me. At other times it seemed the story jumped forward a bit and conversations and events took place and they read as if I had already meant to know about them when in fact I was reading them for the first time. If time is given into the setting up of the book and its setting and the various situations that evolve then surely the same should be expected throughout the entire story.
If I was to split the book into three parts, definitely the first and last third were the strongest. The middle felt a little too dragged out for me and nothing exciting happened before the pace picked up again towards the end. That said as we made our way towards the finish I could see how much I had left to read but thought there is so much more that needs to happen here or needs resolving and how will it all be fitted in? The last few chapters felt very rushed and the book ended quite suddenly when I thought I had a bit more to go. It would be best not to leave everything until the last minute and then pack things in and in turn the reader is left with a sense of abruptness and wanting to wrap things up especially if the reader had enjoyed Beth's story. Everything left me wanting updates from Beth in the next instalment. I know she won't be the sole focus of Summer at Lavender Bay but I hope we will see what happens for her next.
Spring at Lavender Bay didn't blow me away the way the first in the Butterfly Cove series did but still it was a good read despite some of the above mentioned issues I had with it. There was a lovely feeling of camaraderie, love and friendship where the girls would stick with each together through thick and thin and Beth was a character I could identify with and wanted the best possible outcome for. I'll be interested to see what Summer at Lavender Bay has next in store for everyone we have already met.
Suffice to say this was nice, easy introduction to the series and I thoroughly liked our main character Beth Reynolds. Yes, there was a slight air of inevitability as to how everything would pan out for all involved but the journey to reach that point was pleasant. Spring at Lavender Bay is a very quick read and ideal for those that have a few spare hours and want something to take them away from the stresses of everyday life. It won't tax you in any way or require immense physical concentration as to keep on top of the story. Instead it provides you with a classic romance story with some worries and strains for all involved as the path to true love and happiness is never an easy one to overcome.
Beth has spent three years working in London in a project management company where she slaves away from dawn until dusk at her desk for very little reward or praise. She is overworked and constantly taken for granted by the 'men' in place above her. Any extra work always falls her way and she can't refuse it for fear of being overlooked if a promotion did arise. Clearly Beth has is a hard worker and in being so has let other aspects of her life slide. Most noticeably the romance element or this could be more to do with the fact she had been badly burned by a recent relationship experience which has turned her off love. But there is a very small part of Beth that clings to a glimmer of hope that true love could be out there for her. Either way Beth is reaching a crossroads in her life.
Having left Lavender Bay and her guardian Eleanor, who runs the emporium on the seafront, for London she can barely admit to herself that really she is lonely. She never thought she would miss everyone and although she keeps in close contact through Skype with friends Libby and Eliza it's just not the same. 'Lately she had come to the realisation that she was being used whilst others reaped the rewards. Demotivated and demoralised she was well and truly stuck in a cubicle shaped rut'.
With such a terrible boss, a more or less disappointing job and a single room in a run down house in a city where she feels alienated and lost this was not the future Beth had envisaged for herself when she left the bay. It was all 'such a far cry from the perfect flat, the perfect boyfriend, the perfect life she'd thought she had once. She was so far from her ambitions and expectations, and with no idea how to get out of the rut'. Unfortunately a way out of the hole Beth finds herself in does present itself but really not in the best of circumstances. Eleanor has passed away from a heart attack and Beth is left bereft, her guardian, her rock, her sounding board is now gone and guilt eats away at her that she didn't visit as often as she should have.
Eleanor took the place of her mother when she remarried and moved to America. She became a close confidant and the mother figure she so desperately needed and now that support system is gone for ever. But Eleanor was a clever person who could sense Beth needed motivation, a focus and a new goal. In her will she leaves Beth the emporium, at first little does Beth realise this is exactly what she needs to get her going again. Before she knows it she has quit her job and is back in Lavender Bay. The scene where Beth finally stood up to her boss was brilliant and it came across as if Beth was getting a huge weight off her shoulders ready to start afresh a new period in her life.
The emporium is very much what I would call a huckster shop, where a little bit of everything is sold and you see things you didn't even realise you needed or wanted but are powerless to resist them. The shop may have fallen into slight disrepair and the goods may not be in as keeping with the times but Beth after much indecision decides to give things a go. She wanted to do the same with regards to her friendship with Eliza and Libby. 'It had been so long since the three of them had been together. They'd been drifting apart, not consciously but life had pulled them in different directions. No more though, not if Beth could help it'.
Eliza and Libby are all she has left. Even if Eliza is living away with her husband Martin and Libby is run off her feet in the chip shop she runs with her father. After she made her decision I found the shop took more of a back seat, apart from a major incident near the end. Beth's personal life became centre stage and things seem to happen very fast and I thought there needed to be a little more fleshing out of certain scenarios. After all Beth had been through a lot and shouldn't have just jumped head first into things without thinking things through clearly.
Beth was certainly a character who needed her confidence to grow, for it to be encouraged and nurtured. This came in the form of Eliza's brother, chef Sam Barnes. Like Beth he had big dreams outside of Lavender Bay, he wanted to be a successful chef and had already trained in Paris but his fathers illness called him back to run the family pub. It was evident Sam felt stifled in the pub, that his creative talents around food weren't being stretched but yet he was selfless in that he gave p his dreams and aspirations to help his family when they needed him the most.
I loved Sam as a character, everything about him seemed to true and genuine. He didn't want to hurt anyone and I enjoyed seeing the feelings emerge between himself and Beth. He could see Beth wasn't always in the best of places emotionally and mentally and he provided her with time, care and attention. He offers her love and care but is she willing to accept it? On one hand I would say there was a lot of toing and froing between the pair, so much indecision and uncertainty but on the other elements of their story felt very rushed and it seemed as if some parts of the story were glossed over or as if I had missed out on conversations.
There was actually a significant part to the story where midway Beth receives some news that really throws her. Maybe it was the copy of the book that I was reading but it was as if three or four pages were missing and I kept re-reading thinking hold on why is she talking about this? One minute she is looking at her phone and then the next she is upset but I couldn't work out why, this proved frustrating for me. At other times it seemed the story jumped forward a bit and conversations and events took place and they read as if I had already meant to know about them when in fact I was reading them for the first time. If time is given into the setting up of the book and its setting and the various situations that evolve then surely the same should be expected throughout the entire story.
If I was to split the book into three parts, definitely the first and last third were the strongest. The middle felt a little too dragged out for me and nothing exciting happened before the pace picked up again towards the end. That said as we made our way towards the finish I could see how much I had left to read but thought there is so much more that needs to happen here or needs resolving and how will it all be fitted in? The last few chapters felt very rushed and the book ended quite suddenly when I thought I had a bit more to go. It would be best not to leave everything until the last minute and then pack things in and in turn the reader is left with a sense of abruptness and wanting to wrap things up especially if the reader had enjoyed Beth's story. Everything left me wanting updates from Beth in the next instalment. I know she won't be the sole focus of Summer at Lavender Bay but I hope we will see what happens for her next.
Spring at Lavender Bay didn't blow me away the way the first in the Butterfly Cove series did but still it was a good read despite some of the above mentioned issues I had with it. There was a lovely feeling of camaraderie, love and friendship where the girls would stick with each together through thick and thin and Beth was a character I could identify with and wanted the best possible outcome for. I'll be interested to see what Summer at Lavender Bay has next in store for everyone we have already met.
February 12, 2018
3.5 stars
Spring at Lavender Bay is the first Sarah Bennett’s books I read and I grabbed at the chance to read it as it’s also the first of a new series. Set in a fictional seaside town of Lavender Bay, this book is a delightful introduction to the author’s writing and the message the story bore: never give up and plan might alter for the best.
Lead characters and voices of the stories were Beth and Sam, childhood friends who grown up living next door to one another. A series of trials caused Beth to leave London and back to Lavender Bay. Driven by love of the late Eleanor who bequeathed wealth and property to her, Beth decided to reopen Emporium, Eleanor’s bric-a-brac shop. Sam left his dream of becoming renown chef when his father fallen ill and had to take over the running of the family pub. Random exchange turned to candid discussion that soon draw them close and see the other in a new light.
I just love the slow-burn romance between Beth and Sam. Not only they complete each other by being the ear to listen to when needed, their friendship also served to boost up confidence and nudge them in reshaping their dreams. This, more than the physical attraction between them, that gripped me whilst reading. The casual way the flirting started that developed into much deeper feeling made the romance more real and believable.
Then there’s also the tight friendship between Beth, Libby and Olivia; not to mention Sam’s relationship with his family, and the tight-knit community of Lavender Bay that spiced-up the story!
Not saying I had no issue with this book, though. In the sense that the heroine predictably appeared like a doormat and needed rescuing too often. What piqued me no end was the accident and the subsequent effect that follow close to the end of the book. And here I thought Beth had toughened up and got more confidence!! I mean, darn it! So close to the end; I wish there was other way to prove steadfast love without making one party look weaker than the other!!
I’m still going to continue following this series though. At least I’m intrigued with what would happen between Libby and a certain gentleman on the next installment. While waiting, I think I’m gonna check out the author’s other books and have a look and see.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Spring at Lavender Bay is the first Sarah Bennett’s books I read and I grabbed at the chance to read it as it’s also the first of a new series. Set in a fictional seaside town of Lavender Bay, this book is a delightful introduction to the author’s writing and the message the story bore: never give up and plan might alter for the best.
Lead characters and voices of the stories were Beth and Sam, childhood friends who grown up living next door to one another. A series of trials caused Beth to leave London and back to Lavender Bay. Driven by love of the late Eleanor who bequeathed wealth and property to her, Beth decided to reopen Emporium, Eleanor’s bric-a-brac shop. Sam left his dream of becoming renown chef when his father fallen ill and had to take over the running of the family pub. Random exchange turned to candid discussion that soon draw them close and see the other in a new light.
I just love the slow-burn romance between Beth and Sam. Not only they complete each other by being the ear to listen to when needed, their friendship also served to boost up confidence and nudge them in reshaping their dreams. This, more than the physical attraction between them, that gripped me whilst reading. The casual way the flirting started that developed into much deeper feeling made the romance more real and believable.
Then there’s also the tight friendship between Beth, Libby and Olivia; not to mention Sam’s relationship with his family, and the tight-knit community of Lavender Bay that spiced-up the story!
Not saying I had no issue with this book, though. In the sense that the heroine predictably appeared like a doormat and needed rescuing too often. What piqued me no end was the accident and the subsequent effect that follow close to the end of the book. And here I thought Beth had toughened up and got more confidence!! I mean, darn it! So close to the end; I wish there was other way to prove steadfast love without making one party look weaker than the other!!
I’m still going to continue following this series though. At least I’m intrigued with what would happen between Libby and a certain gentleman on the next installment. While waiting, I think I’m gonna check out the author’s other books and have a look and see.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2022
This was a really good book!! It was not too heavy but perfect to read on a relaxing self care day. I am looking forward to read the other two books in this series.
I loved how this book was written with two perspectives and how quickly you could go through it!
I definetly recomment this book if you like romance :)
I loved how this book was written with two perspectives and how quickly you could go through it!
I definetly recomment this book if you like romance :)
October 13, 2021
Finished reading: October 12th 2021
“He was a builder. Time to lay the foundations of what might be a promising future.”
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
February 25, 2018
Sarah Bennett who delighted me and many others with her Butterfly Cove series is back with Spring at Lavender Bay, the first in another trilogy.
In this first book of course we meet all the characters that we are going to grow to love and possibly hate in the coming pages and subsequent books.
Beth returns to Lavender Bay when she discovers that the woman who brought her up has in fact left her a shop - not any old shop but an Emporium. Having not really left much of a life back in London, Beth stays for a while in Lavender Bay and it brings her closer to her old friends.
Libby still helping her father in the local fish and chip shop and not having grown out her dark hair and dark clothes is glad to see Beth back as she now sees what sort of life she could have had if she had left Lavender By.
Eliza has moved away to be with her husband and she doesn't come back home too often, but when she does all three girls get together. But it looks like Eliza is going to move even further away from Lavender Bay.
Of course this book has romance, and that is provided by Eliza's brother Sam. A chef. And a man who has a caring streak which simply jumps off the page as you read about him. Sam is also back home, because his father is ill and needs to take things easy. He has left behind a prosperous career to come back to the pub he knows as home. Sometimes it is nice to come home but you still need aspirations and when Sam meets up again with Beth, he realises that perhaps what he can achieve is actually in Lavender Bay.
Plenty happens in this book and just when you think everything is going well, there's a twist and it is almost like everyone has to start again.
Sarah Bennett manages to weave a story with warmth, humour, love and a sense of community and brings to life a fictitious place as if I could pop down to Lavender Bay to breathe the sea air and perhaps wander into the Emporium before popping to the local pub for a swoon over the hunky barman and chef!
I look forward to my return to Lavender Bay in the Summer.
In this first book of course we meet all the characters that we are going to grow to love and possibly hate in the coming pages and subsequent books.
Beth returns to Lavender Bay when she discovers that the woman who brought her up has in fact left her a shop - not any old shop but an Emporium. Having not really left much of a life back in London, Beth stays for a while in Lavender Bay and it brings her closer to her old friends.
Libby still helping her father in the local fish and chip shop and not having grown out her dark hair and dark clothes is glad to see Beth back as she now sees what sort of life she could have had if she had left Lavender By.
Eliza has moved away to be with her husband and she doesn't come back home too often, but when she does all three girls get together. But it looks like Eliza is going to move even further away from Lavender Bay.
Of course this book has romance, and that is provided by Eliza's brother Sam. A chef. And a man who has a caring streak which simply jumps off the page as you read about him. Sam is also back home, because his father is ill and needs to take things easy. He has left behind a prosperous career to come back to the pub he knows as home. Sometimes it is nice to come home but you still need aspirations and when Sam meets up again with Beth, he realises that perhaps what he can achieve is actually in Lavender Bay.
Plenty happens in this book and just when you think everything is going well, there's a twist and it is almost like everyone has to start again.
Sarah Bennett manages to weave a story with warmth, humour, love and a sense of community and brings to life a fictitious place as if I could pop down to Lavender Bay to breathe the sea air and perhaps wander into the Emporium before popping to the local pub for a swoon over the hunky barman and chef!
I look forward to my return to Lavender Bay in the Summer.
May 15, 2019
I was instantly drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and I was not disappointed at all with the story!
I loved watching Beth come home to her childhood home and rekindle friendships with the people that she grew up with. There is something satisfying about seeing a character grow and achieve! I really enjoyed how the author set the scenes of life in a seaside town, having lived in one myself.
Brilliant characters and enough intrigue to keep me turning those pages.
I will definitely be reading the next in the series, as I loved the relaxing style of writing from this author.
I loved watching Beth come home to her childhood home and rekindle friendships with the people that she grew up with. There is something satisfying about seeing a character grow and achieve! I really enjoyed how the author set the scenes of life in a seaside town, having lived in one myself.
Brilliant characters and enough intrigue to keep me turning those pages.
I will definitely be reading the next in the series, as I loved the relaxing style of writing from this author.
April 10, 2018
I enjoyed this book, nice read, looking forward to the rest in the series
May 20, 2025
This was a cute but predictable story. I didn’t care for the main character, Beth. She was such a whiner. There were some missing and misspelled words which I don’t like.
March 24, 2018
This has been my first book by Bennett and I was not disappointed.
A charming story about friendship, small town community and, of course, love.
A charming story about friendship, small town community and, of course, love.
March 21, 2019
Charming story about Beth who goes home to Lavender Bay to manage a shop left to her by a close friend. Really enjoyed. Already have second book ready to read.
February 22, 2018
This book focuses on three friends, Libby, Eliza and Beth with this book mostly looking at Beth.
I loved the whole setting of Lavender Bay and those who live there. The friendships portrayed are strong and sweet and a nice secondary focus to the romance.
There is drama, intrigue of course romance which is the perfect combination for a wonderful spring/summer read. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the whole setting of Lavender Bay and those who live there. The friendships portrayed are strong and sweet and a nice secondary focus to the romance.
There is drama, intrigue of course romance which is the perfect combination for a wonderful spring/summer read. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2018
Spring at Lavender Bay is billed as a delightfully uplifting romance. And I can say, most categorically, that it is that. Many times during the two days it took me to read it, I smiled and melted at the sweet scenes within.
I think what drew me to this book in the first place was Eleanor's Emporium, a seaside shop. It's one of those eclectic shops that sell a bit of everything, some of it a bit tacky and some of it rather lovely. I'm always drawn to shops in novels, and it was so enjoyable to read about Beth taking on the shop.
Beth is left the shop when Eleanor, who looked after her as a girl, passes away and so she returns to Lavender Bay from London. She doesn't know whether to stick around or whether she can make the shop work, but the presence of Sam Barnes, her friend's older brother, helps.
I loved Sam, he's a lovely character. Strong and caring, I was just rooting for this couple to make a go of it. Their scenes together are written with such intense feeling that I was enthralled by them.
I also loved Lavender Bay. It's by the sea and is a real community. Sam and his family run the pub next door to the emporium, Beth's friend, Libby, and her family run the chip shop. There's a lovely friendship between Beth, Libby and Eliza (Sam's sister) that has been there since childhood.
This is the first in a trilogy set in Lavender Bay. It would be lovely to meet up with some of the characters again and return to such a beautiful setting. This book is just adorable and so sweet.
I think what drew me to this book in the first place was Eleanor's Emporium, a seaside shop. It's one of those eclectic shops that sell a bit of everything, some of it a bit tacky and some of it rather lovely. I'm always drawn to shops in novels, and it was so enjoyable to read about Beth taking on the shop.
Beth is left the shop when Eleanor, who looked after her as a girl, passes away and so she returns to Lavender Bay from London. She doesn't know whether to stick around or whether she can make the shop work, but the presence of Sam Barnes, her friend's older brother, helps.
I loved Sam, he's a lovely character. Strong and caring, I was just rooting for this couple to make a go of it. Their scenes together are written with such intense feeling that I was enthralled by them.
I also loved Lavender Bay. It's by the sea and is a real community. Sam and his family run the pub next door to the emporium, Beth's friend, Libby, and her family run the chip shop. There's a lovely friendship between Beth, Libby and Eliza (Sam's sister) that has been there since childhood.
This is the first in a trilogy set in Lavender Bay. It would be lovely to meet up with some of the characters again and return to such a beautiful setting. This book is just adorable and so sweet.
February 8, 2018
So after reading the wonderful Butterfly Cove series I literally could not wait to read Sarah Bennett's new series. Spring at Lavender Bay is one of those stories where in no time at all I felt so at home in this wonderful community aswell as feeling part of a wonderful friendship that Beth, Eliza and Libby share. The characters are brought to life perfectly with it being the first book in the series it can be a fine line between introducing the characters but also getting the story just right and Sarah Bennett manages this brilliantly. Even the minor characters shine through and bring something lovely to the story. I have to mention Sam (I may be sighing okay swooning a little here) he is practically perfect along with being able to cook. I was pretty jealous that I couldn't try any of the gorgeous desserts.
This story has a wonderful balance of love, friendship, emotional moments and a beautiful chemistry filled romance. Even though there is emotion there is also a positive and uplifting feeling throughout, making it a perfect combination for me! Sarah Bennett always manages to pull me fully into her stories with lovely friendships and that all important emotional connection. I was smiling away to myself while reading this book and after a day of running around this really was the perfect tonic to relax and unwind with, I loved it. I really can't wait for my next visit to Lavender Bay and to catch up with everyone!
A book to lose yourself in, it was so easy to be completely wrapped up in such a gorgeous and uplifting story.
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours, Sarah Bennett & HQ Digital for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This story has a wonderful balance of love, friendship, emotional moments and a beautiful chemistry filled romance. Even though there is emotion there is also a positive and uplifting feeling throughout, making it a perfect combination for me! Sarah Bennett always manages to pull me fully into her stories with lovely friendships and that all important emotional connection. I was smiling away to myself while reading this book and after a day of running around this really was the perfect tonic to relax and unwind with, I loved it. I really can't wait for my next visit to Lavender Bay and to catch up with everyone!
A book to lose yourself in, it was so easy to be completely wrapped up in such a gorgeous and uplifting story.
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Jenny at Neverland Blog Tours, Sarah Bennett & HQ Digital for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 13, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic story about new beginnings and opportunities. There is such charm in the setting on the seaside filled with so many delightful characters.
Beth Reynolds leaves a crummy job in London and moves to Lavender Bay when she inherits a curio/gift shop form Eleanor Bishop a woman who took her in and raised her when her mother married and left to live in Florida. In Lavender Bay, Beth discovers her true self and finds love out of the blue.
Beth Reynolds leaves a crummy job in London and moves to Lavender Bay when she inherits a curio/gift shop form Eleanor Bishop a woman who took her in and raised her when her mother married and left to live in Florida. In Lavender Bay, Beth discovers her true self and finds love out of the blue.
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