What do you think?
Rate this book
Seashell Cove #1
The Cafe at Seashell Cove
Welcome to the Café at Seashell Cove, where you’ll find irresistible home-baked cakes, smiling friendly faces – and maybe even a second chance at love…
When Cassie Maitland needs a holiday from her glamorous but stressful job in event management, she escapes home to gorgeous Seashell Cove, where her family’s cosy café sits perched on the cliffs above sparkling waves and golden sand.
But a lot has changed while Cassie’s been her parents have transformed their tired café into a welcoming haven, her friends Meg and Tilly have whole new lives, and old flame Danny’s twinkling eyes and winning smile make Cassie feel even more flustered than they used to.
Keen to throw herself back into local life, Cassie starts to run themed events – including a not entirely successful cat-café day, complete with dozens of felines. Luckily Danny is always around to lend a helping hand, and Cassie soon begins to wonder if her life in London was really all she made it out to be…
Could a new start in Seashell Cove be exactly what Cassie needs?
A heart-warming and hilarious read about friendship, belonging and seaside living. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Holly Martin and Jenny Oliver.
Read what everyone is saying about Karen
‘Heartfelt and hilarious… Karen Clarke’s writing is an absolute joy to get lost in…’ Clues and Reviews
‘Karen Clarke has such a knack for writing hilariously funny one-liners. Five Stars!’ Stardust Book Reviews
‘The author has a way of just bringing her novels and the characters to life. They are such fabulous feel-good books… Karen Clarke has become one of my must-read authors and is one I can rely on to cheer me up and chase those bad old blues away.’ By the Letter Book Reviews
‘Blooming marvelous.’ Lilac Mills
‘Funny, heart-warming and entertaining.’ Where the Reader Grows
‘Fantastically funny.’ Jo’s Book Journey
When Cassie Maitland needs a holiday from her glamorous but stressful job in event management, she escapes home to gorgeous Seashell Cove, where her family’s cosy café sits perched on the cliffs above sparkling waves and golden sand.
But a lot has changed while Cassie’s been her parents have transformed their tired café into a welcoming haven, her friends Meg and Tilly have whole new lives, and old flame Danny’s twinkling eyes and winning smile make Cassie feel even more flustered than they used to.
Keen to throw herself back into local life, Cassie starts to run themed events – including a not entirely successful cat-café day, complete with dozens of felines. Luckily Danny is always around to lend a helping hand, and Cassie soon begins to wonder if her life in London was really all she made it out to be…
Could a new start in Seashell Cove be exactly what Cassie needs?
A heart-warming and hilarious read about friendship, belonging and seaside living. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Holly Martin and Jenny Oliver.
Read what everyone is saying about Karen
‘Heartfelt and hilarious… Karen Clarke’s writing is an absolute joy to get lost in…’ Clues and Reviews
‘Karen Clarke has such a knack for writing hilariously funny one-liners. Five Stars!’ Stardust Book Reviews
‘The author has a way of just bringing her novels and the characters to life. They are such fabulous feel-good books… Karen Clarke has become one of my must-read authors and is one I can rely on to cheer me up and chase those bad old blues away.’ By the Letter Book Reviews
‘Blooming marvelous.’ Lilac Mills
‘Funny, heart-warming and entertaining.’ Where the Reader Grows
‘Fantastically funny.’ Jo’s Book Journey
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2018
1046 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
About the author
Karen Clarke
47 books289 followersI live in Buckinghamshire with my husband and three grown-up children where I write psychological thrillers for HQDigital/HarperCollins and romantic comedy novels published by Bookouture.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
Over the years I've been a secretary/bookkeeper, a wedding photographer, a pub manager, I've worked in a supermarket, a newsagent's and as a librarian - all good for story ideas.
I now write full-time and when I'm not writing, I read a lot, enjoy walking - which is good for plot-wrangling and ideas - photography, watching Netflix, baking and eating cakes. And then more walking to work off the cakes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 17, 2018
4 seashells to The Cafe at Seashell Cove and a new author to love! 🐚 🐚 🐚 🐚
I’ve been searching for an author that compares to early Sophie Kinsella and Anna Maxted, zany British humor, easy reading. Karen Clarke just may be her! Highly recommended by my friend, Melisa, The Cafe at Seashell Cove was a delightful read!
When Cassie loses her job in London, she moves back home to Seashell Cove where her family has the coziest seaside cafe. Of course, Cassie hides the truth of why she’s there from her parents, and while she’s a bit self-centered at first, through self-discovery, she uncovers her own true happiness.
There’s a natural flow to Karen Clarke’s writing, and the characters are all likable and believable. I was transported through her writing to Seashell Cove.
Overall, I enjoyed every bit of reading this book, including many fun, laugh-out-loud moments.
Thank you to Karen Clarke, Bookouture, and Netgalley for the copy to review. The Cafe at Seashell Cove is available now!
I’ve been searching for an author that compares to early Sophie Kinsella and Anna Maxted, zany British humor, easy reading. Karen Clarke just may be her! Highly recommended by my friend, Melisa, The Cafe at Seashell Cove was a delightful read!
When Cassie loses her job in London, she moves back home to Seashell Cove where her family has the coziest seaside cafe. Of course, Cassie hides the truth of why she’s there from her parents, and while she’s a bit self-centered at first, through self-discovery, she uncovers her own true happiness.
There’s a natural flow to Karen Clarke’s writing, and the characters are all likable and believable. I was transported through her writing to Seashell Cove.
Overall, I enjoyed every bit of reading this book, including many fun, laugh-out-loud moments.
Thank you to Karen Clarke, Bookouture, and Netgalley for the copy to review. The Cafe at Seashell Cove is available now!
March 11, 2018
Karen Clarke has become a fast favorite for light, humorous reads with a dash of serious topics thrown in for good measure. For someone who reads a lot of thrillers, it’s imperative to break them up with characters who put a smile on my face and make me laugh out loud. And that is exactly what you’ll find when you pick up one of Clarke’s novels.
Cassie has returned home to Seashell Cove after being sacked from her glamorous, high stress event planning position in London. Yet everyone is under the impression that she’s taking a sabbatical before setting up her own business. The characters are real and flawed, yet have the humor and banter dialogue that make this a highly enjoyable read.
Another author whose entire back catalogue of books I’ve gone and purchased after being so impressed with her latest titles!
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Bookcouture and Karen Clarke for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review - you have a forever fan!
Cassie has returned home to Seashell Cove after being sacked from her glamorous, high stress event planning position in London. Yet everyone is under the impression that she’s taking a sabbatical before setting up her own business. The characters are real and flawed, yet have the humor and banter dialogue that make this a highly enjoyable read.
Another author whose entire back catalogue of books I’ve gone and purchased after being so impressed with her latest titles!
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Bookcouture and Karen Clarke for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review - you have a forever fan!
March 17, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Cassandra (Cassie) Maitland, has returned to her family home in Seashell Cove for a short break, well that is what she has told her parents. The truth is, she has been fired from her high flying executive job in event managements and had to give up her home in London. She can’t face telling her parents what really has happened as they are so proud of what she has achieved.
Knowing that the company she worked for won’t give her a reference, she decides to try and organise some events of her own, and her parents own the local cafe by the beach so her first idea is to spruce the place up a bit and put it on the ‘map’. However, Cassie hasn’t been home for a long time, and she soon realises that the cafe is very well-known and liked. People even have to queue for a table. Getting herself back in a job is going to be harder than she thought.
The Cafe at Seashell Cove is an amusing, light-hearted read, but one with a poignant message running through it.
Cassie is a lovely character, if a bit self-centred and full on sometimes, but to me this added to her character. Her family are all wonderful secondary characters, especially her Eco Warrior Nan, and her clutter-free lifestyle! Plus, her old best friends, Meg and Tilly and ex-boy crush Danny who is quite the looker.
Karen Clarke’s writing had a natural flow to it, and she certainly knows how to write scenes to make you laugh-out-loud, including actual jokes!
Seashell Cove seems like a lovely carefree place. A place to holiday in, somewhere you can sit by the beach and watch the waves, or grab a bite to eat in the lovely cafe owned by a remarkable husband and wife.
This is one of those books that once you open the pages, you are transported into the fictional world and held there, letting the real world melt away into the background.
A fabulous book to curl up with, or to take to the beach. I would definitely recommend this book to others and I do wonder if we will meet Cassie again in the future?
Cassandra (Cassie) Maitland, has returned to her family home in Seashell Cove for a short break, well that is what she has told her parents. The truth is, she has been fired from her high flying executive job in event managements and had to give up her home in London. She can’t face telling her parents what really has happened as they are so proud of what she has achieved.
Knowing that the company she worked for won’t give her a reference, she decides to try and organise some events of her own, and her parents own the local cafe by the beach so her first idea is to spruce the place up a bit and put it on the ‘map’. However, Cassie hasn’t been home for a long time, and she soon realises that the cafe is very well-known and liked. People even have to queue for a table. Getting herself back in a job is going to be harder than she thought.
The Cafe at Seashell Cove is an amusing, light-hearted read, but one with a poignant message running through it.
Cassie is a lovely character, if a bit self-centred and full on sometimes, but to me this added to her character. Her family are all wonderful secondary characters, especially her Eco Warrior Nan, and her clutter-free lifestyle! Plus, her old best friends, Meg and Tilly and ex-boy crush Danny who is quite the looker.
Karen Clarke’s writing had a natural flow to it, and she certainly knows how to write scenes to make you laugh-out-loud, including actual jokes!
Seashell Cove seems like a lovely carefree place. A place to holiday in, somewhere you can sit by the beach and watch the waves, or grab a bite to eat in the lovely cafe owned by a remarkable husband and wife.
This is one of those books that once you open the pages, you are transported into the fictional world and held there, letting the real world melt away into the background.
A fabulous book to curl up with, or to take to the beach. I would definitely recommend this book to others and I do wonder if we will meet Cassie again in the future?
March 19, 2018
This book opens with Cassie interrupting her parents in an…AHEM intimate moment and I about fell out of my chair laughing, I just knew I was in for a good time and was I ever right! It was hysterical and really set the tone for how fun this story was. Clarke is one of my favorite authors to turn to when I need a pick me up, she achieves that perfect balance between humor and romance that works so well for me.
Cassie returns home sort of down on her luck, she’s been fired from her London job and her romantic life is pretty stagnant. Instead of the typical plot where the heroine goes home to lick her wounds and get comfort from family, Cassie actually keeps things a secret from then and pretends she left her job willingly and is super happy about it. I love the originality of Clarke’s novels, there’s never anything cookie cutter about them, but she does consistently create lovable and quirky characters that charm me. Cassie’s parents were my favorite they were sweet and doting and always embarrassed Cassie with their affection for each other.
This is set in another idyllic location making it a perfect vacation read, plenty of fun loving moments, a dash of romance and so many laughs my sides were sore after reading! I’m hopeful this is the start to a new series as there were so many characters that I would love to read about again.
The Cafe at Seashell Cove in three words: Charming, hilarious and Effortless.
Cassie returns home sort of down on her luck, she’s been fired from her London job and her romantic life is pretty stagnant. Instead of the typical plot where the heroine goes home to lick her wounds and get comfort from family, Cassie actually keeps things a secret from then and pretends she left her job willingly and is super happy about it. I love the originality of Clarke’s novels, there’s never anything cookie cutter about them, but she does consistently create lovable and quirky characters that charm me. Cassie’s parents were my favorite they were sweet and doting and always embarrassed Cassie with their affection for each other.
This is set in another idyllic location making it a perfect vacation read, plenty of fun loving moments, a dash of romance and so many laughs my sides were sore after reading! I’m hopeful this is the start to a new series as there were so many characters that I would love to read about again.
The Cafe at Seashell Cove in three words: Charming, hilarious and Effortless.
March 6, 2018
If you’re looking for a light hearted fun book, I recommend giving this book a try. After Cassie loses her job in London, she goes back to her parents in Seashell Cove. Afraid she’ll disappoint her family by telling them the truth, she simply says she’s visiting for a break before she goes back to London. While there she tries to get more business for her parents cafe, even though they are busy as it is. Cassie is too concerned about proving to herself about what she wants she’s not seeing what truly makes her happy. I very much enjoyed this story. It was a book that puts you in a good mood. The story was entertaining, the characters were believable, the love interest was sweet without being overly so, and it definitely makes me want to read more by this author.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I love this author's books, they at the kind of ones that make you feel all warm and cosy inside! As soon as I saw the blurb for this one I knew I wanted to read it and oh my goodness that cover is gorgeous!!
I loved the plot for this one and the pace was spot on, I flew through the story and really enjoyed it. Seashell Cove is definitely the kind of place that I would like to visit and the locals don't seem that bad either! A lovely writing style and a fantastic story.
Another great release - 5 stars from me for this one - highly recommended!!
I love this author's books, they at the kind of ones that make you feel all warm and cosy inside! As soon as I saw the blurb for this one I knew I wanted to read it and oh my goodness that cover is gorgeous!!
I loved the plot for this one and the pace was spot on, I flew through the story and really enjoyed it. Seashell Cove is definitely the kind of place that I would like to visit and the locals don't seem that bad either! A lovely writing style and a fantastic story.
Another great release - 5 stars from me for this one - highly recommended!!
March 20, 2018
I really enjoy this authors books. Having been dealt with a personal loss recently, I didn't fancy my usual crime reads as wanted something light hearted that would cheer me up. Well The Cafe at Seashell Cove certainly did just that.
Cassie's family are just wonderful. Her nan is a bit of an eccentric but so full of life. Her mum and dad are your typical loving parents who certainly arn't lacking anything in their own relationship. Like Cassie, I could feel myself getting slightly embarrassed at some cringe worthy scenes but they are truly hilarious. You really need to read it for yourselves. Her brother and Cassie are probably the only really sane ones and I loved the brother, sister bond that they share.
The cafe in itself is a wonderful setting. The atmosphere was comforting and inviting and I loved the different events that Cassie organises as they make for very entertaining reading.
There is so much to enjoy in this book. It really was the perfect tonic that drew me right into the story whilst managing to forget the outside world for a while. An uplifting and entertaining read that I didn't want to end. Fabulous!
Cassie's family are just wonderful. Her nan is a bit of an eccentric but so full of life. Her mum and dad are your typical loving parents who certainly arn't lacking anything in their own relationship. Like Cassie, I could feel myself getting slightly embarrassed at some cringe worthy scenes but they are truly hilarious. You really need to read it for yourselves. Her brother and Cassie are probably the only really sane ones and I loved the brother, sister bond that they share.
The cafe in itself is a wonderful setting. The atmosphere was comforting and inviting and I loved the different events that Cassie organises as they make for very entertaining reading.
There is so much to enjoy in this book. It really was the perfect tonic that drew me right into the story whilst managing to forget the outside world for a while. An uplifting and entertaining read that I didn't want to end. Fabulous!
March 24, 2018
OMG what a deliciously GORGEOUS read!
A journey of rediscovery and new beginnings, passion and following your dreams while also realising that nothing stays the same.
I have to say that the opening chapter had me both laughing out loud as well as gagging a bit - I mean no one wants to see or believe their parents are ...well.. you'll have to read the book to find out more about that!
I loved the characters, none too perfect and all just right for the story. So well written, I almost wanted to search out Seashell Cove to hang out with this diverse group of peeps!
This is one of those books that you just find your self escaping IN to. I laughed, enjoyed the quick pace and was a wee bit sad when it ended. However, I'm now really looking forward to what will happen next in Seashell Cove! Adored it!
A journey of rediscovery and new beginnings, passion and following your dreams while also realising that nothing stays the same.
I have to say that the opening chapter had me both laughing out loud as well as gagging a bit - I mean no one wants to see or believe their parents are ...well.. you'll have to read the book to find out more about that!
I loved the characters, none too perfect and all just right for the story. So well written, I almost wanted to search out Seashell Cove to hang out with this diverse group of peeps!
This is one of those books that you just find your self escaping IN to. I laughed, enjoyed the quick pace and was a wee bit sad when it ended. However, I'm now really looking forward to what will happen next in Seashell Cove! Adored it!
March 22, 2018
Cassandra comes home, after being fired from her event management job in London, back to Seashell Cove and finds everything changed. The Cafe has modernized, her brother Rob has left the band to become a teacher, her best friends are back home and working at/near the Cafe, an old crush Danny is everywhere she goes, her prim and proper Nan is going au naturel, including an outdoor outhouse (if you know what I mean)
Coming back home to lick her wounds and start her own business, but finding everything changed, is shocking at first to Cassie (as she likes to be called) and she does become a bossy know-it-all who wants to start her own event management company in this town, soon realizes some truths about herself and her world.
My first book by Karen Clarke, a fast paced book, easy to read, easy to get immersed in the fictional place, with the chapters flowing smoothly and pages turning quickly. I didn't like the main character Cassie at all, but the love interest Danny and hilarious Nan, and the rest of the characters more than made up for her attitude. All were just so cute. Innocent, likable characters, old best friends, new-old love, a lovely beach, beautiful warm cafe - what more can I ask for?
A light-hearted, feel good, warm story is what this book is all about with an underlying theme of loving what you do and rediscovering oneself. This book by Karen Clarke is the one which warmed my heart and made me happy reading it. It pulled me out of my reading slump and I got my mojo back. A refreshing change from my usual genre.
Coming back home to lick her wounds and start her own business, but finding everything changed, is shocking at first to Cassie (as she likes to be called) and she does become a bossy know-it-all who wants to start her own event management company in this town, soon realizes some truths about herself and her world.
My first book by Karen Clarke, a fast paced book, easy to read, easy to get immersed in the fictional place, with the chapters flowing smoothly and pages turning quickly. I didn't like the main character Cassie at all, but the love interest Danny and hilarious Nan, and the rest of the characters more than made up for her attitude. All were just so cute. Innocent, likable characters, old best friends, new-old love, a lovely beach, beautiful warm cafe - what more can I ask for?
A light-hearted, feel good, warm story is what this book is all about with an underlying theme of loving what you do and rediscovering oneself. This book by Karen Clarke is the one which warmed my heart and made me happy reading it. It pulled me out of my reading slump and I got my mojo back. A refreshing change from my usual genre.
March 24, 2018
OMG what a deliciously GORGEOUS read!
A journey of rediscovery and new beginnings, passion and following your dreams while also realising that nothing stays the same.
I have to say that the opening chapter had me both laughing out loud as well as gagging a bit - I mean no one wants to see or believe their parents are ...well.. you'll have to read the book to find out more about that!
I loved the characters, none too perfect and all just right for the story. So well written, I almost wanted to search out Seashell Cove to hang out with this diverse group of peeps!
This is one of those books that you just find your self escaping IN to. I laughed, enjoyed the quick pace and was a wee bit sad when it ended. However, I'm now really looking forward to what will happen next in Seashell Cove! Adored it!
A journey of rediscovery and new beginnings, passion and following your dreams while also realising that nothing stays the same.
I have to say that the opening chapter had me both laughing out loud as well as gagging a bit - I mean no one wants to see or believe their parents are ...well.. you'll have to read the book to find out more about that!
I loved the characters, none too perfect and all just right for the story. So well written, I almost wanted to search out Seashell Cove to hang out with this diverse group of peeps!
This is one of those books that you just find your self escaping IN to. I laughed, enjoyed the quick pace and was a wee bit sad when it ended. However, I'm now really looking forward to what will happen next in Seashell Cove! Adored it!
May 27, 2018
This is the first in a new series of books from the author Karen Clarke, who in 2017 gave us the Beachside series. This time we are in Seashell Cove and quite frankly I want to move there straight away, it seems to be a hive of activity.
Cassie long since left Seashell Cove but she has come back home because she needs a break from her career - well that is what she is telling anyone who asks and probably is trying to convince herself as well.
To keep herself occupied Cassie decides to breathe some new life back into her parents cafe. She is too late it seems the cafe has a lot going for it, but not one to be put off despite her parents reluctance - she starts thinking about how she can set up a cat cafe or coffee tasting to bring something different to the area.
Trouble is Seashell Cove does not need anything different. It has everything for everyone which is why Cassie's brother has also returned and started surprisingly to settle down. Even Cassie's old school friends, Meg and Tilly have a different outlook on living in Seashell Cove. Then there is Danny who remembers the girl he sat with in art classes in school, perhaps now he can see a future being painted before his very eyes.
Of course Cassie's impact on Seashell Cove has some interesting and somewhat humorous outcomes. In fact all the characters are likeable and even the disagreeable ones are quite fun in their own way! At its heart is the strength of family love for each other and respecting decisions. I did think at one point it might not all be settled how it should be, but of course with a bit of humour even the quirkiest of families can love each other.
Heartwarming and funny is sometimes all you need in a book and this is one book which will satisfy the reader!
Cassie long since left Seashell Cove but she has come back home because she needs a break from her career - well that is what she is telling anyone who asks and probably is trying to convince herself as well.
To keep herself occupied Cassie decides to breathe some new life back into her parents cafe. She is too late it seems the cafe has a lot going for it, but not one to be put off despite her parents reluctance - she starts thinking about how she can set up a cat cafe or coffee tasting to bring something different to the area.
Trouble is Seashell Cove does not need anything different. It has everything for everyone which is why Cassie's brother has also returned and started surprisingly to settle down. Even Cassie's old school friends, Meg and Tilly have a different outlook on living in Seashell Cove. Then there is Danny who remembers the girl he sat with in art classes in school, perhaps now he can see a future being painted before his very eyes.
Of course Cassie's impact on Seashell Cove has some interesting and somewhat humorous outcomes. In fact all the characters are likeable and even the disagreeable ones are quite fun in their own way! At its heart is the strength of family love for each other and respecting decisions. I did think at one point it might not all be settled how it should be, but of course with a bit of humour even the quirkiest of families can love each other.
Heartwarming and funny is sometimes all you need in a book and this is one book which will satisfy the reader!
March 11, 2018
Returning home to her parents and their business of the cafe they run, Cassie finds herself looking for a new event planning job and possibly being self employed doing so, after losing hers in London meanwhile her brother is also back at their parents after taking a break from touring in his band and dealing with his girlfriend issues.
As Cassie settles back into life back home, she discovers it's actually possibly just what she needed despite the initial shock of all her old school school friends, Tilly and Meg along with Danby Fleetwood all being back home and playing a part in the renovation of her parents cafe. Of which Cassie had planned to renovate for them to set their business on the global map.
As she starts to rediscover life and a new path for herself including a romantic one, her old life is offered back to her but will she choose the new path over the done before one and stay with her family, friends and possible happy future?
A really funny, sweet romantic book by Karen which you won't regret picking up. The characters are great and likable, with hilarious language use throughout the novel, you'll be sure to enjoy this read, especially on the beach in the summer!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
As Cassie settles back into life back home, she discovers it's actually possibly just what she needed despite the initial shock of all her old school school friends, Tilly and Meg along with Danby Fleetwood all being back home and playing a part in the renovation of her parents cafe. Of which Cassie had planned to renovate for them to set their business on the global map.
As she starts to rediscover life and a new path for herself including a romantic one, her old life is offered back to her but will she choose the new path over the done before one and stay with her family, friends and possible happy future?
A really funny, sweet romantic book by Karen which you won't regret picking up. The characters are great and likable, with hilarious language use throughout the novel, you'll be sure to enjoy this read, especially on the beach in the summer!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
February 26, 2018
What a refreshing change for a book that feature the word Cafe in the title to not be completely about food and life in the cafe! The book is really about Cassie who has returned to her home town after working in London for years, to try to set up her own events planning business, and intending to run a series of events at her parent's cafe to build up local contacts.
Given she had been working as an event planner in London, a fact her parents continually boast about, should mean that things go according to plan for Cassie but as you may have guessed from the start of that sentence, things aren't quite that simple.
I absolutely loved the variety of ideas that Cassie came up with for the cafe, and the events certainly sounded a lot of fun. Cassie is able to re-connect with old friends and feel closer to her family too, but is she truly happy? Well you will need to read to see exactly what is is Cassie should be doing with her life.
One of my favourite scenes involved a comedy night, the one liners from the comedian were perfectly pitched both for the audience he was performing to, and also for my sense of humour. They were clever but groan worthy at the same time, I loved them.
The writing is fabulous and with ever book I read of Karen Clarke's she is becoming a firm favourite of mine. The setting of Seashell Cove sounded divine and I would have loved to visit for myself. This is a warm hearted, uplifting story of family, romance, and of being true to yourself and I would recommend it to anyone.
Just don't expect lashings of gorgeous cake descriptions, as although there is small bit of food, as I said at the start this is not a typical cafe story, and shouldn't be read with that expectation. The cafe does have a place to play but more of as a hub for where Cassie tries out some of her ideas.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Given she had been working as an event planner in London, a fact her parents continually boast about, should mean that things go according to plan for Cassie but as you may have guessed from the start of that sentence, things aren't quite that simple.
I absolutely loved the variety of ideas that Cassie came up with for the cafe, and the events certainly sounded a lot of fun. Cassie is able to re-connect with old friends and feel closer to her family too, but is she truly happy? Well you will need to read to see exactly what is is Cassie should be doing with her life.
One of my favourite scenes involved a comedy night, the one liners from the comedian were perfectly pitched both for the audience he was performing to, and also for my sense of humour. They were clever but groan worthy at the same time, I loved them.
The writing is fabulous and with ever book I read of Karen Clarke's she is becoming a firm favourite of mine. The setting of Seashell Cove sounded divine and I would have loved to visit for myself. This is a warm hearted, uplifting story of family, romance, and of being true to yourself and I would recommend it to anyone.
Just don't expect lashings of gorgeous cake descriptions, as although there is small bit of food, as I said at the start this is not a typical cafe story, and shouldn't be read with that expectation. The cafe does have a place to play but more of as a hub for where Cassie tries out some of her ideas.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
June 24, 2018
It always helps when you find yourself laughing at the antics of the characters from page one, and that is what I found myself doing with this book as Cassie returns home to visit her parents! Her parents are so proud of the life she has found herself in - working hard as an events planner - and are always imagining her living such a glamorous lifestyle. The reality is not quite that good and Cassie has returned home as she's been fired and now doesn't know what she wants to do with her life.
As she returns home to her childhood home, all the feelings she had for the idyllic setting return and she starts trying to help arrange events to help raise the profile of her parents cafe - even though while she has been away, they've done an amazing job in redecorating and bringing the cafe into the 21st century. And her efforts don't exactly go to plan so her confidence takes a big hit!
I loved Cassie and her family - they live life to the fullest and don't do normal! And while she is back in Seashell Cove she starts to reconnect with old school friends, Tilly, Meg and Danny. He was her schoolgirl crush and seems to be a jack of all trades as he's helped out her parents and is currently helping her nan with her garden. And even though Cassie has recently split from city boy Adam, she is torn between the lifestyle she had that seemed to make her parents so proud, and a lifestyle of being happy and following her passions in life.
This was such a fun, fresh read and I've found another fictional area that I want to move too - alongside a new fictional boyfriend in Danny! I've not read anything from this author before BUT that will be changing as I'm looking forward to reading more from her!
As she returns home to her childhood home, all the feelings she had for the idyllic setting return and she starts trying to help arrange events to help raise the profile of her parents cafe - even though while she has been away, they've done an amazing job in redecorating and bringing the cafe into the 21st century. And her efforts don't exactly go to plan so her confidence takes a big hit!
I loved Cassie and her family - they live life to the fullest and don't do normal! And while she is back in Seashell Cove she starts to reconnect with old school friends, Tilly, Meg and Danny. He was her schoolgirl crush and seems to be a jack of all trades as he's helped out her parents and is currently helping her nan with her garden. And even though Cassie has recently split from city boy Adam, she is torn between the lifestyle she had that seemed to make her parents so proud, and a lifestyle of being happy and following her passions in life.
This was such a fun, fresh read and I've found another fictional area that I want to move too - alongside a new fictional boyfriend in Danny! I've not read anything from this author before BUT that will be changing as I'm looking forward to reading more from her!
February 17, 2018
I've read a few of Karen's books now but this one is totally amazing best one by far and so heartwarming while funny as well. Full of families beautiful seaside countryside and romance and about finding out what is best for you and being happy. Highly recommend this book loved it from the first page it has you hooked.
Cassie has been working in a high flying job and and needs to get away and she looses her job so decides to head home to her parents to find out what is best for her and she heads to the beautiful seaside cove of seashell and her parents have always owned and run a cafe. In known to her they have transformed the cafe that was tired and now it's welcoming. When she arrives home she finds her brother is home to as he's needing to sort his life out to. Cassie realises that her old friends have whole new lives now and her old flame even makes her feel more flustered. She's keen to get into the seaside town and throws herself into organising events both at her parents cafe and at the local pub can she make a success of it or when she gets offered a job in London which does she find is best to move back or stay. Can she be happy and do what she wants as she thinks her parents are so proud of what she does and she doesn't want to let them down. Also her brother has a secret and can he be happy and move forward.
An excellent book from the first page has you hooked and so well written I highly recommend reading this.
Cassie has been working in a high flying job and and needs to get away and she looses her job so decides to head home to her parents to find out what is best for her and she heads to the beautiful seaside cove of seashell and her parents have always owned and run a cafe. In known to her they have transformed the cafe that was tired and now it's welcoming. When she arrives home she finds her brother is home to as he's needing to sort his life out to. Cassie realises that her old friends have whole new lives now and her old flame even makes her feel more flustered. She's keen to get into the seaside town and throws herself into organising events both at her parents cafe and at the local pub can she make a success of it or when she gets offered a job in London which does she find is best to move back or stay. Can she be happy and do what she wants as she thinks her parents are so proud of what she does and she doesn't want to let them down. Also her brother has a secret and can he be happy and move forward.
An excellent book from the first page has you hooked and so well written I highly recommend reading this.
March 15, 2018
Karen Clarke has such a lovely writing style. You are quickly drawn into the story, meeting the characters and the setting and immediately feeling at home.
Cassie has left her high flying job as an event planner and come home to lick her wounds. She doesn't tell her family that she was fired- or that it wasn't the dream job she suggested it was.
She meets up with old friends and soon feels the comfortable draw of her hometown. She wants to make a mark on her family café- but are her parents really keen on her plans?! She has a few events planned and the 'cat cafe' has such potential for a disaster zone but sounded so wonderful.
She also gets drawn back into a childhood hobby and lets that be her comfort zone. I just loved the sound of the café and would be so keen to visit and I would be really tempted by the 'event's'.
It has such a lovely family feel- she is drawn back into the heart of the family and along with her brother try to make sure everyone is happy- including nan, who is a fantastic character.
There is a romance in the air and I was really rooting for Danny- the golden boy!
I have loved all the Karen Clarke books that I have read and will be keen to read her next release.
Cassie has left her high flying job as an event planner and come home to lick her wounds. She doesn't tell her family that she was fired- or that it wasn't the dream job she suggested it was.
She meets up with old friends and soon feels the comfortable draw of her hometown. She wants to make a mark on her family café- but are her parents really keen on her plans?! She has a few events planned and the 'cat cafe' has such potential for a disaster zone but sounded so wonderful.
She also gets drawn back into a childhood hobby and lets that be her comfort zone. I just loved the sound of the café and would be so keen to visit and I would be really tempted by the 'event's'.
It has such a lovely family feel- she is drawn back into the heart of the family and along with her brother try to make sure everyone is happy- including nan, who is a fantastic character.
There is a romance in the air and I was really rooting for Danny- the golden boy!
I have loved all the Karen Clarke books that I have read and will be keen to read her next release.
June 23, 2018
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. I’ve never really been drawn to chick-lit...I seemed to have been more intrigued by thrillers and historical fiction. But I think I may have found a new favorite genre. Cozy, sweet, rom-coms are such a breath of fresh air in this crazy world we live in.
The characters in this book were genuine and magnetic. Super cute story that would make a perfect Hallmark movie. Just sayin’.
I can’t wait to read the next one in the Seashell Cove series.
Karen Clarke...you’ve got a new fan!
I really enjoyed this book. I’ve never really been drawn to chick-lit...I seemed to have been more intrigued by thrillers and historical fiction. But I think I may have found a new favorite genre. Cozy, sweet, rom-coms are such a breath of fresh air in this crazy world we live in.
The characters in this book were genuine and magnetic. Super cute story that would make a perfect Hallmark movie. Just sayin’.
I can’t wait to read the next one in the Seashell Cove series.
Karen Clarke...you’ve got a new fan!
March 15, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
If you think that this book is just going to be a calm and serene read with oodles of tea at your fingertips, think again. 'The Café at Seashell Cove' is more than a cup of PG tips or a warm cheese scone - A LOT more. Even though Karen Clarke injects a large dose of comedy into her storyline, she also fills the storyline with multiple scenarios her readers will be guaranteed to relate to.
Cassie has decided to visit her parents in Seashell Cove - 'visit' being the operative word. As far as Cassie's parents are concerned, their daughter is still the high flying, independent, popular events manager. As far as Cassie is concerned however, well, let's just say things certainly aren't as they seem in Cassie's world. Not only that, Cassie's parents' café has had an image overhaul and her brother has changed direction regarding his career, so why isn't Cassie happy for them?
Karen Clarke's new novel really hit home with me as I saw a lot of myself in Cassie, and I am sure a lot of readers might do as well. We have all been in similar positions to Cassie, so when her situation became even more black and white as the story progressed, I couldn't seem to get rid of the lump that was beginning to form in my throat. From the outside, people may be the most happiest people in the world, yet on the inside they could be minutes away from breaking. Nobody knows what goes on behind closed doors. Nobody knows what people are dealing with on a day to day basis. Nobody truly knows except the person living that life. Even though this book made me giggle, I was so pleased that the author wrote such a poignant message within her storyline - it made me realise that going through life and not knowing exactly what you want to do, or having to work even harder to get yourself on the path of your dreams which could take longer, is in no way a bad thing and people should stop seeing it as that.
I have everything crossed that 'The Café at Seashell Cove' is just the start of a new series - I really want to read more about the characters and whether their dreams come true later on. Karen Clarke is another author whose writing has gone from strength to strength, earning herself a place in my little list of 'favourite authors of all time'.
Without even knowing, 'The Café at Seashell Cove' was a book I just needed to read, and what a heartfelt, thought-provoking read it is. From the very first page, I felt like I was getting hugged by a giant teddy, with a voice whispering in my ear that everything will be okay. I laughed out loud, I snorted, I became emotional, but most importantly, I learnt a valuable lesson from Cassie (and her gran, of course!).
If 'The Cafe at Seashell Cove' was on my doorstep, I would be there all day every day. But, seeing as it isn't, I have the pleasure of holding this book very close to my heart for a very long time.
A truly beautiful, cosy and touching novel which will not only leave you wanting another cup of tea and a slice of cake, it will also leave you feeling the most loved person in the world.
If you think that this book is just going to be a calm and serene read with oodles of tea at your fingertips, think again. 'The Café at Seashell Cove' is more than a cup of PG tips or a warm cheese scone - A LOT more. Even though Karen Clarke injects a large dose of comedy into her storyline, she also fills the storyline with multiple scenarios her readers will be guaranteed to relate to.
Cassie has decided to visit her parents in Seashell Cove - 'visit' being the operative word. As far as Cassie's parents are concerned, their daughter is still the high flying, independent, popular events manager. As far as Cassie is concerned however, well, let's just say things certainly aren't as they seem in Cassie's world. Not only that, Cassie's parents' café has had an image overhaul and her brother has changed direction regarding his career, so why isn't Cassie happy for them?
Karen Clarke's new novel really hit home with me as I saw a lot of myself in Cassie, and I am sure a lot of readers might do as well. We have all been in similar positions to Cassie, so when her situation became even more black and white as the story progressed, I couldn't seem to get rid of the lump that was beginning to form in my throat. From the outside, people may be the most happiest people in the world, yet on the inside they could be minutes away from breaking. Nobody knows what goes on behind closed doors. Nobody knows what people are dealing with on a day to day basis. Nobody truly knows except the person living that life. Even though this book made me giggle, I was so pleased that the author wrote such a poignant message within her storyline - it made me realise that going through life and not knowing exactly what you want to do, or having to work even harder to get yourself on the path of your dreams which could take longer, is in no way a bad thing and people should stop seeing it as that.
I have everything crossed that 'The Café at Seashell Cove' is just the start of a new series - I really want to read more about the characters and whether their dreams come true later on. Karen Clarke is another author whose writing has gone from strength to strength, earning herself a place in my little list of 'favourite authors of all time'.
Without even knowing, 'The Café at Seashell Cove' was a book I just needed to read, and what a heartfelt, thought-provoking read it is. From the very first page, I felt like I was getting hugged by a giant teddy, with a voice whispering in my ear that everything will be okay. I laughed out loud, I snorted, I became emotional, but most importantly, I learnt a valuable lesson from Cassie (and her gran, of course!).
If 'The Cafe at Seashell Cove' was on my doorstep, I would be there all day every day. But, seeing as it isn't, I have the pleasure of holding this book very close to my heart for a very long time.
A truly beautiful, cosy and touching novel which will not only leave you wanting another cup of tea and a slice of cake, it will also leave you feeling the most loved person in the world.
March 14, 2018
In "The Cafe at Seashell Cove", after losing her job as an event planer after one too many mistakes, Cassie comes back home to her parents in Seashell Cove. Of course, she's afraid they're going to be disappointed in her losing her job, especially as they are so, so proud of her, boasting about her and her high - flying job in London, so she simply says she's on holidays. However, while at home, she wants to try to start her own event - planning business and her parents' cafe is the perfect trial for her, even though they're very happy with the way it works. So is Cassie going to cause more trouble than it's worth or is she going to find her two feet and start a new career?
The character of Cassie was very annoying. She didn't behave like a woman in her late twenties, she was just too childish. She was the only one who knew what's wrong and what's right, she didn't hear to other people and everything was always about her. If people didn't agree with her, they were described by the author as "bitchy" and were made look bad. I more than once wanted to tell Cassie to just stop trying to make people happy no matter what, to stop and start listening what others try to tell her. She also gave impression of being really very incompetent in what she was doing and I couldn't believe nobody commented how crap she was at it - she really just ran into everything without thinking, feet first, and it just somehow didn't fit the picture of the perfect, professional Cassie she wanted everybody to believe in. I just couldn't warm to her and connect with her, with the fact that she ignored other people's need, focusing only on her herself. Also, I do know that families should keep together, support each other and be proud of each other but I just wanted to cry out loud and bang my head on the nearest wall at another mention of Cassie's parents Being. So. Proud. Of. Her. Yes, I do get where the author was coming from and what she was aiming at here but maybe it could have been better or differently developed.
The "romance" with Adam was so very unrealistic and unbelievable. They were like two strange people and the sudden appearance of Adam was probably one of the most unpredictable things that could ever happen. I know, unpredictable is good but I think not in this case. They didn't know each other, I really don't know why they were together and why they've broken up, there was no chemistry in this relationship.
"The Cafe at the Seashell Cove" has one of the most gorgeous covers ever and probably it's the best part of this book. But altogether, it was a light - hearted read that had its moments and I would recommend giving it a try - you may enjoy it much better than I did, maybe I'm just growing out of such stories? It was entertaining, cute and sweet read but - sadly - not for me.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 6, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog: thecosiestcorner.blogspot.com
Words cannot express how much I enjoyed this novel, it was so easy to read, light-hearted and hilarious that I couldn't put it down.
The story follows main character Cassie, on her return home to Seashell Cove (which just sounds like the most delightful place ever - I now want to live there!) after being fired from her job as an events manager. Cassie is upset that she's lost her job and is too frightened and ashamed to tell her parents the truth as all she hears from her parents are how proud they are of her and her high-flying career.
However, as the story goes on Cassie learns some new things about herself and about her loved ones around her and it really is just a lovely novel with a light-hearted feel. I would 110% recommend this book. It's the perfect story to get you excited for summer and after I'd finished it, it left me feeling all warm inside. I liked the character of Cassie, I felt like she was easy to relate to - I mean who doesn't want to make their parents proud? And I really felt for her with what she was going through - although sometimes I don't think she helped herself!
Another character I loved was Cassie's nan, I found her hilarious! Her and Cassie's conversations had me laughing out loud and that's just what I want from a book, I want to enjoy it and this is just what this book did. Danny was another lovely character and I was totally hoping that him and Cassie were going to end up together. Danny just seemed like the most perfect man ever! Surely I'm not alone in thinking this?
Overall, I really really enjoyed this book. I've liked every single one of Karen's novels that she's released recently and I can't wait to read more from this brilliant author. Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
Words cannot express how much I enjoyed this novel, it was so easy to read, light-hearted and hilarious that I couldn't put it down.
The story follows main character Cassie, on her return home to Seashell Cove (which just sounds like the most delightful place ever - I now want to live there!) after being fired from her job as an events manager. Cassie is upset that she's lost her job and is too frightened and ashamed to tell her parents the truth as all she hears from her parents are how proud they are of her and her high-flying career.
However, as the story goes on Cassie learns some new things about herself and about her loved ones around her and it really is just a lovely novel with a light-hearted feel. I would 110% recommend this book. It's the perfect story to get you excited for summer and after I'd finished it, it left me feeling all warm inside. I liked the character of Cassie, I felt like she was easy to relate to - I mean who doesn't want to make their parents proud? And I really felt for her with what she was going through - although sometimes I don't think she helped herself!
Another character I loved was Cassie's nan, I found her hilarious! Her and Cassie's conversations had me laughing out loud and that's just what I want from a book, I want to enjoy it and this is just what this book did. Danny was another lovely character and I was totally hoping that him and Cassie were going to end up together. Danny just seemed like the most perfect man ever! Surely I'm not alone in thinking this?
Overall, I really really enjoyed this book. I've liked every single one of Karen's novels that she's released recently and I can't wait to read more from this brilliant author. Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
March 15, 2018
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
In this story we follow Cassie Maitland, an event manager, who takes a break from her stressful job and goes back home.
There a lot of things have changed. Her parents now have a successful little café, her friends Meg and Tilly have a new and totally different lifestyle and then there is her old flame Danny. All this calls for an interesting storyline and excitement.
Cassie starts coming up with ideas for her parents’ café, some are better than other, but she always gets Danny’s help and she starts to see life from a different perspective.
I really adored Cassie’s family, especially her nan. They are a great mixture of people and they all add so much to the story.
The setting is absolutely beautifully and Karen Clarke did a great job capturing it all.
Certain bits in the storyline seemed a bit unrealistic and not authentic enough. This is a real pity, because I really liked the idea behind it all.
There is a lot of humour in the storyline and I really enjoyed the dialogue between the characters.
All in all, I think it’s a delightful and happy story.
In this story we follow Cassie Maitland, an event manager, who takes a break from her stressful job and goes back home.
There a lot of things have changed. Her parents now have a successful little café, her friends Meg and Tilly have a new and totally different lifestyle and then there is her old flame Danny. All this calls for an interesting storyline and excitement.
Cassie starts coming up with ideas for her parents’ café, some are better than other, but she always gets Danny’s help and she starts to see life from a different perspective.
I really adored Cassie’s family, especially her nan. They are a great mixture of people and they all add so much to the story.
The setting is absolutely beautifully and Karen Clarke did a great job capturing it all.
Certain bits in the storyline seemed a bit unrealistic and not authentic enough. This is a real pity, because I really liked the idea behind it all.
There is a lot of humour in the storyline and I really enjoyed the dialogue between the characters.
All in all, I think it’s a delightful and happy story.
April 19, 2018
The Cafe At Seashell Cove by author Karen Clarke is a delightful comedy with fun characters. Cassie Maitland has gotten fired from her job in London and goes home. She is mortified at the experience of losing her job as an event planner with a high profile company. No way is she going to let her folks know what has happened, so she just lets them think she is home for a holiday. So begins Cassie's misguided attempts to prove to herself that she can make changes to her parent's cafe and increase their clientele. Poor Cassie is a bit self-absorbed in her thinking and a bit short on the details as she starts planning new events at the cafe. Her parents had already made changes and have a very successful cafe and business they are comfortable with before Cassie came home. I won't post spoilers, but as you read the book you will laugh and you may cringe as things happen along the way to Cassie finding the truth of her own abilities and talents.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 16, 2018
This is a lovely sweet book which I really enjoyed . In really am becoming an massive fan of Karen Clarke. Her books while easy to read tell a lovely story and I love the characters . Perfect holiday read.
March 17, 2018
loved this book so much I devoured it in one sitting as I couldn't bear to leave it out of my hands once I had picked it up. The Café at Seashell Cove has such a lovely title and an equally as gorgeous cover that conjures up so many beautiful images in one's mind. It was nice to have a new setting for Karen Clarke's books as I was beginning to think the books set in Shipley had naturally run their course and something new and fresh was needed. That was certainly what I found here in spades as within the first paragraph you find yourself gasping out loud and laughing at the scene unfolding in front your eyes. In fact I would say it's best to keep your eyes shut, if only our main character Cassie had been able to do so. If you get a good feeling regarding book the minute you pick it up you just know you are going to enjoy every bit of it. Yes there is that ever so slight niggle at the back of your mind will this feeling last the entire way through but with The Café at Seashell Cove, my enjoyment just grew and grew as Cassie even though she struggled so much really found a place in my heart.
Cassie Maitland is an event planner and has spent the last few years working in London but now she is arriving home to Seashell Cove and to the heart of the cosy café her parents run on a headland overlooking the most beautiful vista. Cassie's parents Lydia and Ed are full of nothing but pride for their wonderful daughter who has achieved so much in her glittering career. They grab any opportunity to boast to all and sundry as to how well their daughter has done and how she has so effortlessly climbed the career ladder.
There is only one problem with this as what her parents believe to be true simply isn't, Cassie may have embellished the truth ever so slightly or just never dampened her parents enthusiasm for fear of upsetting them. Cassie and her younger brother Rob were always encouraged to fly the nest to find something better for themselves outside of Seashell Cove, to spread their wings and achieve as much as they can. That is what Cassie tried to do, unfortunately that didn't all go to plan and now she finds herself fired from her job and returning home. In fear of disappointing her parents she stretches the truth even further and says she is just home for a break to reassess and to plan what her next step should be. To be honest this to me seemed such a foolish thing to do. Cassie appeared to be digging an even deeper hole for herself when maybe admitting the truth and seeing people's reactions may have been the wiser choice. But one thing is clear when things go wrong, what do we do? Our natural instinct of course is to seek refuge and comfort from the familiar- our home and family.
Wounded from her experiences in London Cassie was attempting to cover everything up. She came back with a plan to revitalise the café and try and make more money for her parents. So the storyline seemed as if it was going to be one I had read countless times over. I couldn't have been more surprised as was Cassie when she discovers the café has been transformed and is now a hub of activity and a social place for all. Thanks in part to her old friend Tilly Campell, whom she hasn't seen for years, who employed her interior design skills and has now made the café the place to be. Meg Larson, another friend whom Cassie again let fall by the wayside, works a few hours at the café and supplies the cakes as well as some hours at the local bakery.
Seeing her old friends and Danny Fleetwood, a man she feels let her down when they were younger, sets Cassie to think why did she let good friends drop from her radar? An element of guilt sets in and so this feeling intensifies with regard to her parents. She was always so busy to pay proper visits or listen carefully to news her mother may impart on the phone. I suppose to suppress these feelings Cassie jumps in with all guns blazing with new and exciting adventures for the café. But does the café really need them or is for Cassie's own personal benefit to make herself feel better and to avoid confronting the actual truth.
There wasn't one character I didn't enjoy reading about in this book. All were brilliantly utilised and all offered lots of comedic moments but also advice and support when needed. Cassie flounders the more the book develops , maybe not in terms of the initiatives she comes up with but more so in the faith and belief she has in herself. She begins to think her parents have built up such a wonderful picture of their talented daughter that how can she bring them crashing back down to earth by admitting the truth? I hated the way Cassie doubted herself so much, she always seemed to put herself down and couldn't see how kind hearted she was. She always wanted to help others but forgot it's herself who perhaps needed the most help. I loved reading about the tea and coffee night, the cat day in the café, the games night and the comedy night in the pub.
Cassie thinks everything is a disaster but really she is bringing new fun elements to Seashell Cove and she should have been proud of herself. Her feelings of being unsettled only ever increased throughout the story as failure becomes a standard word in her heart and mind. Oh how I wished she didn't have to feel this way. On the romance front I felt Cassie had very mixed feelings. Rob a business man from London had been her latest squeeze but she feels this has gone by the wayside so really a new relationship is not on the cards but I had my suspicions regarding Danny. I fervently hoped said suspicions would come to fruition as Cassie deserved some happiness and contentment. Such a kind, loving picture of Danny was built throughout the story, any woman would love a Danny in their life. He seemed to pop up at just the right moments, he was a jack of all trades and would certainly help a girl in need.
Nan was another brilliant character and demonstrated the abundance of humour and laughter to be found in this book. Her fads were simply hilarious to read about and her latest embracing all things eco and green to bring her back to nature was a brilliant example of this. Offloading the shackles of modern society to be no longer tied by time had me roaring with laughter. I thought Cassie and her family were best to turn a blind eye and leave her up to her antics as surely she would grow out of the phase as is often mentioned in reference to teenagers! Ed and Lydia, Cassie's parents, even from our first encounter with them I just loved the pair. They loved their café but behind it all I felt they were hiding something in a similar way to Cassie. So clearly a lot of people in the book needed to confront their feelings. Even Rob, Cassie's younger brother had a lot of growing up to do.
There may have been plenty of characters to get to know but the book never felt over crowded with them or that one storyline would be lost amongst the others. Cassie's storyline was the main element of this book and all the other little sub-plots seemed to flow beautifully out from this. Cassie had a hidden talent, one in which she doubted her capabilities but I could see the positives in these and I hoped with time she would do the same.
Hopefully this is not the last we have heard from Seashell Cove as I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent read. Even if future books do not focus on Cassie I would certainly love to know more about Tilly and Meg, I wonder will they get their own story to share with us? The Café at Seashell Cove was a brilliant return to form for Karen Clarke and long may it continue. I hope lots of people pick up this fabulous book and enjoy it as much as I did.
Cassie Maitland is an event planner and has spent the last few years working in London but now she is arriving home to Seashell Cove and to the heart of the cosy café her parents run on a headland overlooking the most beautiful vista. Cassie's parents Lydia and Ed are full of nothing but pride for their wonderful daughter who has achieved so much in her glittering career. They grab any opportunity to boast to all and sundry as to how well their daughter has done and how she has so effortlessly climbed the career ladder.
There is only one problem with this as what her parents believe to be true simply isn't, Cassie may have embellished the truth ever so slightly or just never dampened her parents enthusiasm for fear of upsetting them. Cassie and her younger brother Rob were always encouraged to fly the nest to find something better for themselves outside of Seashell Cove, to spread their wings and achieve as much as they can. That is what Cassie tried to do, unfortunately that didn't all go to plan and now she finds herself fired from her job and returning home. In fear of disappointing her parents she stretches the truth even further and says she is just home for a break to reassess and to plan what her next step should be. To be honest this to me seemed such a foolish thing to do. Cassie appeared to be digging an even deeper hole for herself when maybe admitting the truth and seeing people's reactions may have been the wiser choice. But one thing is clear when things go wrong, what do we do? Our natural instinct of course is to seek refuge and comfort from the familiar- our home and family.
Wounded from her experiences in London Cassie was attempting to cover everything up. She came back with a plan to revitalise the café and try and make more money for her parents. So the storyline seemed as if it was going to be one I had read countless times over. I couldn't have been more surprised as was Cassie when she discovers the café has been transformed and is now a hub of activity and a social place for all. Thanks in part to her old friend Tilly Campell, whom she hasn't seen for years, who employed her interior design skills and has now made the café the place to be. Meg Larson, another friend whom Cassie again let fall by the wayside, works a few hours at the café and supplies the cakes as well as some hours at the local bakery.
Seeing her old friends and Danny Fleetwood, a man she feels let her down when they were younger, sets Cassie to think why did she let good friends drop from her radar? An element of guilt sets in and so this feeling intensifies with regard to her parents. She was always so busy to pay proper visits or listen carefully to news her mother may impart on the phone. I suppose to suppress these feelings Cassie jumps in with all guns blazing with new and exciting adventures for the café. But does the café really need them or is for Cassie's own personal benefit to make herself feel better and to avoid confronting the actual truth.
There wasn't one character I didn't enjoy reading about in this book. All were brilliantly utilised and all offered lots of comedic moments but also advice and support when needed. Cassie flounders the more the book develops , maybe not in terms of the initiatives she comes up with but more so in the faith and belief she has in herself. She begins to think her parents have built up such a wonderful picture of their talented daughter that how can she bring them crashing back down to earth by admitting the truth? I hated the way Cassie doubted herself so much, she always seemed to put herself down and couldn't see how kind hearted she was. She always wanted to help others but forgot it's herself who perhaps needed the most help. I loved reading about the tea and coffee night, the cat day in the café, the games night and the comedy night in the pub.
Cassie thinks everything is a disaster but really she is bringing new fun elements to Seashell Cove and she should have been proud of herself. Her feelings of being unsettled only ever increased throughout the story as failure becomes a standard word in her heart and mind. Oh how I wished she didn't have to feel this way. On the romance front I felt Cassie had very mixed feelings. Rob a business man from London had been her latest squeeze but she feels this has gone by the wayside so really a new relationship is not on the cards but I had my suspicions regarding Danny. I fervently hoped said suspicions would come to fruition as Cassie deserved some happiness and contentment. Such a kind, loving picture of Danny was built throughout the story, any woman would love a Danny in their life. He seemed to pop up at just the right moments, he was a jack of all trades and would certainly help a girl in need.
Nan was another brilliant character and demonstrated the abundance of humour and laughter to be found in this book. Her fads were simply hilarious to read about and her latest embracing all things eco and green to bring her back to nature was a brilliant example of this. Offloading the shackles of modern society to be no longer tied by time had me roaring with laughter. I thought Cassie and her family were best to turn a blind eye and leave her up to her antics as surely she would grow out of the phase as is often mentioned in reference to teenagers! Ed and Lydia, Cassie's parents, even from our first encounter with them I just loved the pair. They loved their café but behind it all I felt they were hiding something in a similar way to Cassie. So clearly a lot of people in the book needed to confront their feelings. Even Rob, Cassie's younger brother had a lot of growing up to do.
There may have been plenty of characters to get to know but the book never felt over crowded with them or that one storyline would be lost amongst the others. Cassie's storyline was the main element of this book and all the other little sub-plots seemed to flow beautifully out from this. Cassie had a hidden talent, one in which she doubted her capabilities but I could see the positives in these and I hoped with time she would do the same.
Hopefully this is not the last we have heard from Seashell Cove as I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent read. Even if future books do not focus on Cassie I would certainly love to know more about Tilly and Meg, I wonder will they get their own story to share with us? The Café at Seashell Cove was a brilliant return to form for Karen Clarke and long may it continue. I hope lots of people pick up this fabulous book and enjoy it as much as I did.
October 19, 2020
Simply wonderful. I loved the main character's character growth, not to mention the cosy backdrop of her parents' café.
March 26, 2018
Cassie has returned home to Seashell Cove with a big secret, plenty of questions and a determination to reframe her life. She used the last bit of her trek from London to gather her thoughts – and surprises her parents in a topless clinch on the sofa. Aside from the “ick” factor – this scene gives a peek into the connection and affection her parents share: something she longs for. But – there’s more to Cassie’s return than she’s let on. Fired from a prestigious event management company in London, her life, despite the highlights she shared (and perhaps played up) with her parents was one long round of stress, struggles and ultimately, disappointment. Sure, she was good at her job, mostly, but she wasn’t in love with the work or even able to see the point most of the time. Now with that black mark on her resume, she’s going to find event management, and London, unwelcoming unless she has a list of proven successes to bring with her. Deciding that her parent’s little café is the perfect option to use her ‘help’ as she is determined to make her mark by planning evenings at the café with different themes: tastings, cat days, game nights, even comedy: all intended to bring in new customers and boost the bottom line.
From the start, Cassie’s character was difficult for me: the fact she was hiding so much from everyone, and her desperation to forge ahead with her plans, with no thought to anyone else’s wishes or desires. Sure, she means well, but her own tone-deafness to those around her just seemed to give her an extra dose of immaturity and cluelessness as to what she actually is accomplishing. Fortunately, Clarke manages to offset Cassie’s problematic moments with some wonderful characters: her Nan in the midst of a ‘back to nature clear-out’ is adorably quirky, her brother, now back in school with a new focus on life and moving forward, her parents: loving and so beautifully drawn and so determined that their children will not be “stuck” as they were. Lastly there are Cassie’s school friends and a leaving-year crush… her friends have been back in town with one leading walking tours when the mood strikes, the other engaged and splitting her work time between the bakery next door and her parent’s café: then there’s Danny, seeming to be everywhere and a dab hand at everything, much to Cassie’s discomfiture.
Round and round the story goes: Cassie is stuck on her own merry go round of secrets, ambitions, desires and dreads, and only manages to get off that ride when circumstances force her to adapt. From Danny putting her artwork on the café walls, to a liquor fueled confession and the offer of a “dream job” in London from the man she was just starting to date, the story kept me reading and wondering: for if ever there was a character that could invent difficulties for herself, Cassie is she. And it was interesting to see how Clarke managed to keep her sympathetic and show all of her reasons (even if arrived at wrongly) that kept her from being honest with her family and friends, and her own struggles with the word success, and just what that means. Clarke managed to make this story one of reframing a life with the help of family, friends and the potential of new romance: and give Cassie, even in her difficult moments, a future she deserved.
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
From the start, Cassie’s character was difficult for me: the fact she was hiding so much from everyone, and her desperation to forge ahead with her plans, with no thought to anyone else’s wishes or desires. Sure, she means well, but her own tone-deafness to those around her just seemed to give her an extra dose of immaturity and cluelessness as to what she actually is accomplishing. Fortunately, Clarke manages to offset Cassie’s problematic moments with some wonderful characters: her Nan in the midst of a ‘back to nature clear-out’ is adorably quirky, her brother, now back in school with a new focus on life and moving forward, her parents: loving and so beautifully drawn and so determined that their children will not be “stuck” as they were. Lastly there are Cassie’s school friends and a leaving-year crush… her friends have been back in town with one leading walking tours when the mood strikes, the other engaged and splitting her work time between the bakery next door and her parent’s café: then there’s Danny, seeming to be everywhere and a dab hand at everything, much to Cassie’s discomfiture.
Round and round the story goes: Cassie is stuck on her own merry go round of secrets, ambitions, desires and dreads, and only manages to get off that ride when circumstances force her to adapt. From Danny putting her artwork on the café walls, to a liquor fueled confession and the offer of a “dream job” in London from the man she was just starting to date, the story kept me reading and wondering: for if ever there was a character that could invent difficulties for herself, Cassie is she. And it was interesting to see how Clarke managed to keep her sympathetic and show all of her reasons (even if arrived at wrongly) that kept her from being honest with her family and friends, and her own struggles with the word success, and just what that means. Clarke managed to make this story one of reframing a life with the help of family, friends and the potential of new romance: and give Cassie, even in her difficult moments, a future she deserved.
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
March 19, 2018
The Cafe at Sheashell Cove was really a cover love. I saw that gorgeous lovely cover and I wanted to dive straight into the book. After reading the synopsis I was sold completely, who wouldn't want to read about a little cafe with delicious cakes located at the beach. Let’s be honest, that sounds pretty good for a contemporary book right? Such a shame that the book didn't really deliver like I had anticipated.
Let's start off with my main point of irritation. The main character Cassie, she is probably the most annoying character I read about this year. She is around my age, but acts like a little, spoiled princess who thinks the whole world revolves around her. Everything was Always about her. There was absolutely no room for the needs and demands of other people. The Cafe at Sheashell Cove could have been named the Big Cassie One Woman show for all it is worth. And I don't have a problem with self-centered characters if you see some character development throughout the story, but with Cassie there wasn't any development. She stayed egocentric throughout the story. No growth what so ever. The inability to connect with her and warm to her really took away from my overall enjoyment of the story. You spend a lot of time with Cassie, so it would have been nice to have some friendly feelings towards her. Such a shame....
I kept wishing we could have seen more of the secondary characters in this story. Because I actually found their storylines more interesting. I wanted to know more about Rob and his decision to leave his successful band. I wanted to know more about Meg wedding and why it felt she wasn't there with whole of her heart. I just wanted more but because Cassie was so into herself we only got glimpsed of the other characters.
The overall writing style was enjoyable. The author really brought the settings to live. At times I almost felt like I was drinking tea on the terrace of the cafe or even eating a piece of pie with a giant cat sitting in my lap. That's why it is such a shame that I couldn't enjoy this story more. I loved the idea of the book and the overall storyline was quite good. A light, fluffy contemporary with a decent dose of romance and wooing.
The best part of this book was definitely the cover. I might give this author another try in the future, because I think I would have enjoyed this book way more if Cassie wouldn't have been such a spoiled, little princess.
Let's start off with my main point of irritation. The main character Cassie, she is probably the most annoying character I read about this year. She is around my age, but acts like a little, spoiled princess who thinks the whole world revolves around her. Everything was Always about her. There was absolutely no room for the needs and demands of other people. The Cafe at Sheashell Cove could have been named the Big Cassie One Woman show for all it is worth. And I don't have a problem with self-centered characters if you see some character development throughout the story, but with Cassie there wasn't any development. She stayed egocentric throughout the story. No growth what so ever. The inability to connect with her and warm to her really took away from my overall enjoyment of the story. You spend a lot of time with Cassie, so it would have been nice to have some friendly feelings towards her. Such a shame....
I kept wishing we could have seen more of the secondary characters in this story. Because I actually found their storylines more interesting. I wanted to know more about Rob and his decision to leave his successful band. I wanted to know more about Meg wedding and why it felt she wasn't there with whole of her heart. I just wanted more but because Cassie was so into herself we only got glimpsed of the other characters.
The overall writing style was enjoyable. The author really brought the settings to live. At times I almost felt like I was drinking tea on the terrace of the cafe or even eating a piece of pie with a giant cat sitting in my lap. That's why it is such a shame that I couldn't enjoy this story more. I loved the idea of the book and the overall storyline was quite good. A light, fluffy contemporary with a decent dose of romance and wooing.
The best part of this book was definitely the cover. I might give this author another try in the future, because I think I would have enjoyed this book way more if Cassie wouldn't have been such a spoiled, little princess.
March 14, 2018
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.I settled right into this delightful story of an event planner , Cassie , who finds herself at a crossroads in life and has to return home to her parents house because she has lost her job. When Cassie returns home she finds a few changes and is horrified to discover that her parents cannot keep their hands off each other! I had to laugh out loud when Cassie walked in the door to find out her parents were just getting out of bed!! Cassie thinks that she is going to rescue her parents sleepy little seaside cafe but finds out that it is a bustling tourist attraction. Nevertheless Cassie sets up some events in the Cafe like Scrabble night which turns out to be a huge success. Cassie reconnects with old friends and a High School crush Danny. Of course all is not smooth sailing with Danny and he has some competition with an ex-boyfriend from London that turns up and tries to win Cassie back.
Then there is Nan, Cassie's hilarious grandmother who is trying the minimalist approach and ridding herself of all possessions that are not necessary. Nan is hilarious and has to be my favorite character in this book. Rob, Cassie's brother has returned home as well after quitting his band and being thrown out of his house by Emma his bossy (according to Cassie) girlfriend. I am hoping the author will write a sequel about Rob and Emma.
I love a picturesque setting in a quiet seaside town with fun quirky characters. Settle in with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy this one!
Then there is Nan, Cassie's hilarious grandmother who is trying the minimalist approach and ridding herself of all possessions that are not necessary. Nan is hilarious and has to be my favorite character in this book. Rob, Cassie's brother has returned home as well after quitting his band and being thrown out of his house by Emma his bossy (according to Cassie) girlfriend. I am hoping the author will write a sequel about Rob and Emma.
I love a picturesque setting in a quiet seaside town with fun quirky characters. Settle in with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy this one!
March 9, 2018
Fun light read
Karen Clark did a great job of setting the tone of the book giving the reader a taste of Devon and an assortment of the people who lived there.
Cassie is flawed in a lot of her thinking and it was satisfying to see her grow and realize who she was and what she wanted in life. It takes Cassie to appreciate Danny and I was happy when their relationship got better.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
Karen Clark did a great job of setting the tone of the book giving the reader a taste of Devon and an assortment of the people who lived there.
Cassie is flawed in a lot of her thinking and it was satisfying to see her grow and realize who she was and what she wanted in life. It takes Cassie to appreciate Danny and I was happy when their relationship got better.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
September 25, 2018
Chick Lit at its finest. It passed the time fine and was just what I needed after reading two heavy disturbing reads. Its about successful event planner finds herself in her childhood seaside town after some work turmoil. As is the nature of Chick Lit there is a cute love story that emerges too.
Nothing groundbreaking and no big twists but it's a quick easy read if you're looking for something light and fluffy to pass the time.
Nothing groundbreaking and no big twists but it's a quick easy read if you're looking for something light and fluffy to pass the time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews