The Bakery at Seashell Cove

Seashell Cove #2

by Karen Clarke

A warm welcome and delicious chocolate gateau are always on the menu at the Bakery at Seashell Cove – and this summer, romance is in the air…

Meg Larson thought she had everything she wanted: she works in the local bakery, she’s months away from marrying her high-school sweetheart, and home is beautiful, sunny Seashell Cove, where the sky is blue, the sea is turquoise and the sand is golden.

Except that the bakery is up for sale and her fiancé Sam’s more interested in bikes than their relationship. When Meg receives shocking news about her family, he’s on a cycling tour and ignoring her calls – and posting selfies on Facebook with a female cyclist he looks far too cosy with...

Luckily the bakery’s estate agent, Nathan, is understanding and funny, and as the summer goes on an unexpected friendship blossoms. When the bakery is given a second lease of life under a mysterious new owner, Meg realises a change might be exactly what she needs too.

Will Meg find the happy-ever-after she dreams of in Seashell Cove?

An uplifting, laugh-out-loud rom com that will make you dream of romantic days at the beach. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Holly Martin and Jenny Oliver.

What readers are saying about Karen Clarke:
‘Had me properly laughing… A light-hearted, fun, easy-to-read story that will have you giggling.’ Rachel’s Random Reads

‘Karen Clarke has such a knack for writing hilariously funny one-liners. I have lost track whilst reading this how many times I’ve laughed out loud… Five Stars!’ Stardust Book Reviews

‘A fun and heart-warming read that had me feeling all toasty inside… 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

‘This book had me laughing from page one. The story was light, funny, warming and LOL all the way through. I cannot recommend this book enough.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘Totally amazing… So heart-warming while funny as well. Full of families, beautiful seaside countryside and romance… An excellent book from the first page, has you hooked and so well written. I highly recommend reading this.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘Fabulous… With every 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.’ Rachel’s Random Reads

‘I’ve read all of Karen’s books and have loved every one of them!... An absolutely perfect story to lounge around on the beach with. But, if you can’t wait that long, then grab a cuppa, turn on the heating and whisk yourself to the sunny Devon seaside for a couple of hours! Fantastic!’ Stardust Book Reviews

‘I absolutely loved it. Fantastic.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘This is a really fun-filled book.’ Goodreads reviewer

‘Another wonderful story by Karen Clarke.

Genres: Chick Lit, Romance, Fiction, Contemporary

276 pages, Paperback

First published June 5, 2018

About the author

I 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.

Reviews

[Melisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Update 6/15/18: this book is on sale for 99 cents on Amazon today!

I’m so excited to be closing out the blog tour for Karen Clarke’s The Bakery at Seashell Cove.

Karen Clarke has become a fast favorite. I read The Beachside Christmas and never looked back – she is an absolute sure thing and always delivers on the laughs while creating characters you really grow to love.

This is the second installment in the Seashell Cove series and I was so excited to be back with Cassie, Meg, and Tilly and to hear more about their lives and their antics.

I especially love how each book centers around one of the characters but the other central figures still play into the story. You get to see what they’re up to and get to enjoy them even more.

That being said, this one totally works as a stand-alone as well.

In this book, we get to learn more about Meg – her relationship with her fiancé, her love of baking, and her family life. There are several different story lines, all of which pulled at my heartstrings and had me rooting for Meg. Not to mention the food! I don’t even have a sweet tooth (I know, I’m strange!) but my mouth was watering at all the descriptions of the cakes and other goodies Meg was whipping up.

You really can’t go wrong with a Karen Clarke book, I can recommend all of her books confidently, and this one is no exception!

Thank you a mil to Bookouture for my copy of The Bakery at Seashell Cove, and for having me as apart of this blog tour with so many other great bloggers. This book is now available!

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Delectable Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.25

This book left me with a smile on my face and craving cake! 🍰 apparently this is the second book in the series, however I had no idea until I reached the end of the book and saw the blurb for the previous book... so this can absolutely be read as a standalone... although Time permitting I will definitely go back and read Cassie‘s story... how can I resist another book set in the beautiful setting of Seashell Cove?

Meg was such a fun and real character, the kind of girl you want to be friends with... dealing with the fact that her beloved bakery is being sold and her fiancé is obsessed with cycling.... this is the second book I have read recently where the husband is more interested in cycling than the wife/girlfriend/fiancée??? This must be a real problem, stay off the bikes boys!

Meg has an opportunity to be on a television show featuring her and the bakery.... The TV show brought about both hurt feelings and some good news... this was a lighthearted read with a bit of a serious tone... Meg has to deal with a family secret being revealed, her failing relationship, and the obnoxious mother of her fiancé....Thank goodness the handsome Nathan enters the picture... A beautiful friendship is formed, or maybe a bit more? Will Meg find her way to happily ever after?

Such a delightful read filled with both heartbreaking and heartwarming moments... A book filled with fun, food, and friendship.... set in a place we’d all love to visit Seashell Cove!🐚

Absolutely recommend as a perfect summer read on the beach, by the pool, or just sitting on the couch!

[Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 seashells by the seashore for The Bakery at Seashell Cove! 🐚 🐚 🐚 🐚

I am ever grateful to my friend and Traveling Sister, Melisa, who told me about Karen Clarke’s books. They are pure fun, and The Bakery at Seashell Cove is no exception!

Where The Cafe at Seashell Cove was Cassie’s story, The Bakery at Seashell Cove is Cassie’s friend, Meg’s, story.

Also taking place in picturesque Seashell Cove, Meg Larson has it all. She is a baker, and she is about to marry her high school sweetheart, Sam.

But it all goes off-kilter when the bakery is up for sale, and Sam becomes distant. And obsessed. Completely obsessed with cycling! (My husband had his own obsession with cycling, but I digress! Lol)

Will Meg follow in Cassie’s shoes and have her own happily-ever-after?

If you are fan of brisk, fun, beachy reads with cute characters, a cozy setting, and British humor, give Karen Clarke a try. I am most definitely a fan and cannot wait to see whose story she explores next at Seashell Cove!

Thank you to Karen Clarke, Bookouture, and Netgalley for the ARC. The Bakery at Seashell Cove will be released on June 8, 2018.

I’ll have a pic up on my blog and instagram inspired by the adorable cover!
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ A Scrumptious Feel Good Read!

The Bakery at Seashell Cove is a delicious read. I adore baking so for me this book hit my sweet spot and made my tummy rumble.

This is the second book in the series and I had no problem getting stuck into it. I do have the first book just haven't had the chance to read it. But I will definitely be reading it now!

Meg is about to lose her beloved bakery at Seashell Cove and with her fiancé Sam setting off on a cycling trip from Paris to Geneva
She has to face the fight on her own.

Well that is until the gorgeous and sexy Nathan rocks up and gets her pulses racing.
With her relationship on the rocks with her childhood sweetheart, and the potential of losing her beloved Bakery will Nathan be her Knight in Shining armour or Will love conquer all?

The Bakery at Seashell Cove was an absolute joy to read. It was a deliciously light hearted and heart warming read.
The romance fizzies along perfectly, the food is mouth wateringly good,in fact I would love some of the recipies.
The characters are strong and likeable you can't help routing for them to suceed. Especially Meg she deserves a happy ending.

If you are looking for a warm, romantic, feel good read that is engaging, fun and will leave your tummy rumbling, then this book is the one for you!
The perfect piece of escapism!

Thank you to Bookouture for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

My Review is also on my Blog Website:-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...

[Nila (digitalcreativepages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some books which must be read when one is sad. This is one such feel-good book which makes the heart go ga-ga over love and CAKES.

Meg is the baker of Seashell Cove, but the bakery needs a new owner for her to bake her cakes and run it. Her fiancé Sam is more busy with cycling, her would be in-laws are busy with arranging her marriage, her mother has agoraphobia, her father is presumed dead, but her friends Cassie and Tilly are extremely supportive. With so many people arranging her life, Meg is more than happy to go along with the flow, till the estate agent Nathan makes his appearance. He is cute in his ways, sweet in his words, and gorgeous to look at. Both Meg and Nathan have an instant connection but being the good girl that she is, she is loyal to Sam UNTIL THE KISS.

Karen Clarke is a fabulous writer with a gorgeous flow to her words. Her description of various cakes almost had me salivating (I don't even like cakes much). There is happiness and sunshine when Meg is described. Her love for bakery and attraction to Nathan is instantaneous.

But there are the niggles, Sam and she have no zing between them, but Nathan and she have zing-zing between them. Yet she sticks to her comfort zone, her character does not become bolder as the story develops. Neither does she stand up for herself and make her wishes known till the end. Though Nathan is main lead, he is only present in 4 main scenes. He is almost absentee; I wanted more of Nathan.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really felt for Meg. She loves her job in the bakery so it certainly couldn't have been easy having an uncertain future, especially when she is literally months away from tying the knot.

Now Nathan the love interest sent my pulse racing never mind poor Meg's. I fell head over heels in love with him myself. The blossoming friendship between the two will certainly have your heart melting.

Meg has so many decisions to make that I didn't really envy the position she is in getting pressure from her boyfriends family with the wedding arrangements. You can see her heart and soul goes into her baking, of which can I just say had my mouth watering. I probably wouldn't advise reading this book on an empty stomach that's for sure!

Even though Meg has some serious decisions to make, this is still a heart warming and very much light hearted read. I loved how the author threw some little surprises in there for the readers making this one novel extremely hard to put down.

The Bakery At Seashell Cove is a deliciously, wondrous story that you will devour within no time at all. It is escapism at it's finest and I really enjoyed every minute of it.

My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.

[Noco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a bit iffy about this book in the beginning, but it ended up winning over my heart.
The Bakery at Seashell Cove by Karen Clarke is a lighthearted yet pretty emotional, scrumptious read. I cannot sing praises of this book enough.

As I mentioned earlier, however, this book didn't grab my heart straight away.
I had some sticking points that had me wondering whether to go on or not, but eventually, it all worked out and I am so glad about it.

First off, I wasn't a big fan of Meg as other readers appeared to have been. As opposed to positive comments regarding her character, I didn't find Meg as likeable or relatable, I actually found her a bit ungrateful at some point.
Secondly, Her devotion to the Old Bakery didn't come across as properly executed, and despite all the reiteration as to how Meg has always wanted to own her own bakery, I couldn't see why and how she has become to be so attached to this particular bakery, to begin with. The delivery was a bit lacking and less convincing in my eyes, and it consequently hindered me from getting into the story as quickly as I would have liked.

I enjoyed the romance and the emotional seesawing tremendously though. It's actually what truly pulled me into the story, and got me all invested.
I did find the introduction of the romance a teeny bit contrived (like having a sexual daydream) momentarily, but I could totally see the sparks and chemistry between Meg and Nathan, and it didn't take me long to begin rooting for Meg, wanting them to be happy together.
Combined with the emotional drifts from Sam, the fracture in the relationship was nicely portrayed and depicted. I appreciated how the chink - which was initially small - became wider and wider as the story develops and how it was depicted with conviction.
Emotions were spilling out of each word and swept me up in a roller-coaster ride. My heart ached and beat like crazy just as Meg's did, and I reckon it's a true testament to how good a book is to have a reader go like that.

I really loved the rom-com moments in the end. It was such a yummy treat and raised my heart rate and had my emotions go all haywire. I know I am sounding like a broken record but I cannot help but love a book that gets my emotions to go crazy!

All in all, The Bakery at Seashell Cove is a lovely story of love and friendship, as well as following your heart. Meg finally finds true love and a place where she can truly shine.

This book had me become a Karen Clarke fan, and this book won't certainly be the last that I read from the author.
Delicious and satisfying 4.5 stars go to the book, and I am now eyeing to read the next book in the series.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this return to Seashell Cove- which sounds just the sort of place to spend a nice week by the sea surrounded by tempting cakes and bread for breakfast.
Meg has dreamt of making a success of the bakery that she used to work at before the owner died. She also has a wedding to plan to her childhood sweetheart, Sam. But Sam doesn't seem to be as committed to their relationship as she'd like.

The characters are all wonderful, even those that you'd probably hope to avoid in real life. There are some lovely surprises along the way and we are willing Meg to get her dream fulfilled. The cakes made me feel really hungry and keen to make something hopefully just as delicious this weekend.

Meg has some soul searching to do and some tough decisions to make.

[Els · Rating 5 out of 5]

This kind of books have covers that already put a smile on my face, even before I have read one single word. They make me want to sit down, put a 'do not disturb' signal on the door and read.
Love, romance, betrayal, misunderstandings and of course the happy ending are some of ingredients that are needed to create a story in this category. It ticked all the boxes for me.
I felt like I could smell all the delicious creations Meg was making and the recipe at the end of the book was a surplus.
A story well constructed and thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining.
Thank you, Karen Clarke, Bookouture and Negalley

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com/...

[Nicola Clough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't wait to read this book as loved all Karen's other books and she certainly didn't disappoint at all as such an amazingly read just didn't want to put it down. It's worth far more than the five stars I have given it as it's full of romance and an easy read while being funny and heartwarming. It's full of families and cakes and of course it is set in beautful countryside makes you want to be there. Fantastic read highly recommend it.
Meg has worked in a bakery for years and when the owner passes away and it's been left to a family member who doesn't want it so puts it up for sale. Meg can't afford it but she's with her boyfriend who is her school sweetheart but he's more interested in bikes and he's about to go off on a tour on his bike but can they plan their wedding. Nathan is the estate agent for the bakery and meg soon forms a friendship with him. She is asked to take part in a tv show that will show the bakery at it's full potential so hopefully someone will buy it but in doing this she goes home one day and finds her mother with a mystery man and this turns her life upside down for ever as she wasn't expecting this news she tries to ring Sam but she can't get hold of him and she's sees photos of him on his tour. Is Sam the right man for meg or is she really falling for some one else suddenly a mystery man buys the bakery in order for her to run it still as a bakery so meg is so happy. Can she find who the mystery man is or not and can she decide which man she's wants to be with or not.
Simply fantastic read.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow! Another truly spectacular book from Karen Clarke. I am loving this series.

Seashell Cove is a place full of colourful characters including Gwen from the cafe, and I thoroughly enjoying getting to know Meg and her family better.

I wasn't as keen on Meg's fiance and his family though.

And the bakery, what a great story involving it, and whether Meg would or wouldn't get her dream come true of running the old bakery. This is a woman that can seriously bake and her cakes were sounding delicious.

I am loving how both of these Seashell Cove books so far are slightly different from what you may expect from the titles! Fantastic writing, great storylines and pretty setting, combining to create another fantastic story. I can't wait for the next book!

Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meg's life is running perfectly, she is due to get married to Sam who she has been with forever and she has her perfect job in the Seashell Cove bakery..... and then things start to go wrong! The owner of the bakery dies and it gets put up for sale...... and where can she find the money to buy it....... The estate agent Nathan is rather cute though! To make matters worse Sam is on a Paris to Geneva bike ride and not returning her calls.... is he really interested enough to want to marry her?

Great to be back in Seashell Cove and I loved this book, the setting and characters are great and it is certainly a lovely feel good book but be warned don't read it when you are hungry or in need of a sugar fix!

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bakery at Seashell Cove by Karen Clarke is the 2nd book in the Seashell Cove series, and a wonderful fun read that takes you back to fun summers at the shore. Meg Larson is a baker, but the bakery she worked at is for sale after the owners death. Meg hopes the new owners will continue to let her bake. This was a very enjoyable book. I enjoyed seeing how the different threads tied together and how the dynamics between the characters played out. Looking forward to reading this author again. I recommended this book/series is you're looking for a sweet romance.

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Sharlene Hammond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another 4.5 Stars!
I have fallen for Seashell Cove! I devoured both books from the series in one weekend. Such cozy stories!!

[Frenchorchidea · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was a very enjoyable quick read! I am very fond of Karen Clarke books and this one was no exceptions! This book is a page turner, I was hooked from page 1. I really liked the characters and I was very keen to know what will happen for Meg and Nathan. Very good book that I can only recommend!

[Kristina (Books-and-dachshunds) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review on my blog

Although I found it heavier than what the cover said it was; all the misadventures happening to the characters along the way really took me to heart.. I do think it’s one of the stories that we need to read. Maybe our first love doesn’t need to be our wedding partner just for the sake of everything else rather than our feelings; but that also doesn’t mean we can’t love the next one deeper.

I also appreciate how humoristic this novel can be ! I giggled in my head quite often; for more “adult” humour like I know I have, or even odd sayings i’d never heard of like « You could’ve buttered my butt and called me a cookie (..) »

I also particularly loved the character of Kath and Gwen – such unique women in their own way!

[Kaisha (The Writing Garnet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

I'm going to get straight to the point here - I absolutely LOVED this book and everything it stood for. Personally, I think that this is Karen Clarke's best book yet as the entire vibe of the storyline was truly magical, written with such warmth and magnetism. It would take a person made of stone to not fall in love with 'The Bakery at Seashell Cove', and I will tell you why!

Meg has been with her fiancé for most of her life. Waking up to him every morning is all she has ever known and, instead of feeling happy about her upcoming wedding, Meg can't help feeling that she will be making the biggest mistake of her life. To be honest, with a family like the one she is about to marry into, it's no wonder she feels the way that she does! They're awful people!! There's one thing being proud of their son's achievements with cycling, but then there is another thing thinking that Sam's faeces don't stink, even when he is in the wrong! I am probably not one to dish out relationship advice seeing as I am single and all that, BUT, I thought that couples were supposed to support their partners in whatever life throws at them, instead of patronising and belittling them at every opportunity? Like I say, I'm not good ol' Jezza Kyle by any means, so I could be wrong! -insert eye roll here-. Why should Meg have to make allowances for Sam whenever he jets off to different countries to ride his bike? Why isn't he supporting his soon to be wife with her bakery dream? Oh. Wait. I know why....it doesn't contain a bike..

So, if you haven't guessed already, but my opinion of Sam, and his family, isn't really a good one. I don't quite get why Meg has stuck with his attitude for as long as she has. I guess a part of me can see why if I really thought about it, what with the way that Sam treats her. Maybe she felt as though she wouldn't be able to cope on her own because that's how he has made her feel over the years, I don't know, but that was the vibe I was getting. 

Watching Meg come alive whenever she was in that bakery was like watching a child step into a toy shop. Her personality shone like nobody's business, with a completely different side popping out to say 'hello' at times, without feeling like she had to pretend to be something she wasn't. The one thing I loved most about Meg was that she refused to let go of her dream, even though people kept telling her to. Her passion for the bakery was infectious - how could anyone not support that?

'The Bakery at Seashell Cove' doesn't just revolve around Meg and her relationship with Sam, in fact it has so much to it, I am in awe at how the author managed to squeeze everything into the storyline! Obviously I won't tell you the other things that it contains, as that would be a spoiler! So, I'm going to tease you and say that there are several really touching moments in this book, and I can guarantee that you'll be sitting there wanting to scoop several characters up and hug them.

This book made me feel the happiest I have felt in a long time. I laughed, I nearly cried, and I felt as though I was on cloud nine due to the wonderful, wonderful characters and enchanting vibe. I truly didn't want the story to end - I wanted to hold on to that happiness for as long as possible, because I knew that as soon as I closed the book I was no longer part of 'The Bakery at Seashell Cove'.

Take this book in your hands and give it the attention it deserves because I cannot think of a better book to settle down with tonight - and I'm not just saying that because it contains cake!

A mesmerising, compelling, and enchanting read that had the recipe for perfection flowing through the entire book. Deliciously enticing with every turn of the page, 'The Bakery at Seashell Cove' is looking to be my top book of June. Simply perfect, I wish I could give it more than 5 stars.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book!! The cover is what first caught my eye. It was a fun read and I felt like I was in the bakery working next to Meg. I loved the character of Meg and wanted to be her friend, especially when no one(her fiance, mother, soon to be mother-in-law) was being supportive of her bakery dream.

The bakery where Meg worked is up for sale. She still uses it to make some cakes for the cafe where she currently works. Meg wishes someone would buy the bakery and put her in charge. From the start I didn't like Sam. His family is just as bad. Sam's mom, Bevereley, blames Meg for everything and is "helping" with the wedding plans. Who would want an owl as a ring bearer, especially if you are deathly afraid of birds? The "slutty" wedding dress, which Beverley insisted was exactly Meg, was awful. Especially when Meg described the model looking like Porno Barbie. Besides her friends, no one seemed to support Meg and her passion for baking. Sam is too concerned with his cycling club and Meg's mom wants grand-babies. Then she meets Nathan. Meg gets featured on Britain's Hidden Gems' and everything changes.

From the start I figured out the identity of the anonymous donor. I enjoyed Gwen and her one-eyed tomcat. The stuff that came out of her mouth was quite hilarious. She had a rough exterior but she loved that kitty. Meg's two best friends Cassie and Tilly were always there for her. I need to read The Cafe at Seashell Cove to get Cassie's story!!!

I definitely recommend the book and can't wait to read more books by the author.

Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author, Karen Clarke, for a free electronic ARC of this novel.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I adored my first visit to Seashell Cove so I was delighted when we weren't kept waiting too long for part two in a planned trilogy. The Bakery at Seashell Cove sees author Karen Clarke now turn her attention attention to Meg Larson, Meg bakes the cakes for the café and also works at the local bakery. The only problem Meg now faces is that the owner of the bakery has died and even up until that point the bakery has not been as successful as it once had been despite the best efforts of Meg. Meg's passion is baking and cakes and she loves creating new delectable flavours, combinations and treats for people to try. Devising recipes, mixing, measuring, rolling and kneading all provide her with some quite time to mull things over in her life.

Meg loves how with that first bite of a cake or a pastry that she has baked the recipient will have such a look on their face that will instantly make their day better. Meg feels such an emotional connection with everything she does with regard to baking and she is loathe to lose this feeling. She feels inspired and energised and it keeps her focused but now the bakery is falling into disrepair and the customers no longer come. As the bakery is put up for sale, she longs to be able to buy it to expand her dreams even further to potentially change the fortunes of the bakery but her funds are lacking. How can she cope with something that so holds so dear to her heart being lost forever?

I loved Meg as a character, I felt she was passionate about what she wanted in life but lacking the necessary funds in order to buy the bakery herself meant that she became a little lost at times. She could feel her long term goals slipping from her grasp and didn't fully know how to go about clawing them back. Meg has been dating Sam for as long as she can remember but still she feels his proposal caught her by surprise. The wedding seems to be rushing towards her at a startling pace and she's not sure she is quite ready for the onslaught that it will bring. So the issue of the bakery sale, her wedding and also Sam's cycling challenge away from home are all problems playing on her mind. Clearly Meg, in my mind, had to sit down and get her priorities right. In what order that would be only she could decide. She had to listen to her heart and decide which came first. I felt she couldn't control Sam being away, the elements of jealousy creeping in on her part, thinking would he meet someone on his journey, well really she could do nothing about that. If baking was her passion then saving the bakery should have been her mission and I was delighted to see she wasn’t going to give it up without a fight.

Nathan Walsh, the hunky man tasked with the sale of the bakery, does cause a flutter of excitement with his arrival and I loved the scenes that featured him. In fact I wanted him to have an even more prominent role than he already did. He seemed caring and compassionate although he didn't want to give too much of that side to him away. As an opportunity presents itself for a TV baking slot, Meg grabs it with both arms. It will help showcase her talents and hopefully bigger things can arise from something small. Through one thing and another a buyer steps forward for the bakery but it is not what or who Meg would have hoped for. I thought she was admirable that she pushed her own feelings and long term aims for the bakery aside especially when she makes the connection with who the buyer is and how they want to change everything.

I thought the author developed the overall story well and I was glad to see other plots introduced. Yes Meg was fighting for the bakery but if this had been the sole focus of the book it would have become repetitive and boring. Weaving other elements of Meg's life into the book kept the story fresh and kept the reader guessing as to the eventual outcome. Meg's mother storyline was brilliant, I thought I knew what she was up but really when the reveal came it was surprising but it was truly lovely too. She was being elusive and secretive and given her personal history Meg was right to worry. On the other hand it did provide some laughs as Meg begins to wonder just what is she up to?

In this sense I really did think Meg was juggling so much in her life that at some stage something had to give, her mother, the bakery and Sam all were time bombs waiting to go off. It remained to be seen which would explode first and how would Meg deal with the fall out. As Nathan was there on the sidelines and with Sam being away and different emotions coming to the surface I hoped Meg would start to realise that change was afoot and she would have to start to make some life altering decisions in order to find true romance and happiness.

The Bakery at Seashell Cove was an enjoyable and delightful read. If that gorgeous cover doesn't draw you in I don't know what will. I thought the covers for Karen Clarke's Beachside series were lovely but my god have the Seashell Cove covers upped everything a gear and will be so attractive on bookshelves. Cassie who was the focus of book one does make very brief appearances in this story as does Tilly who I presume will be the focus of the final book. I understand this was Meg's story and her chance to shine but I would have liked to have seen a bit more of her two friends just to really establish the sold friendship between the trio.

For me The Cafe at Seashell Cove, only by a slight margin, edged out Meg's story for me. I was totally invested in Cassie and her story but here as much as I did enjoy reading about Meg and her trials and tribulations there was just a little something very slightly lacking for me that made me connect with Meg as much as I had with Cassie. That said The Bakery at Seashell Cove was an entertaining read with a fantastic setting, interesting characters and of course it had the requisite dash of romance that everyone looks for in this genre. I am more than interested to see how the series will be wrapped up when hopefully we will be able to read Tilly's story before the end of the year.

[Annette · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meg is a talented baker who creates wonderful cakes for a cafe. She also hopes to save a bakery which holds wonderful memories for her. The bakery is her happy place.

Meg is engaged to Sam. Sam treats her terribly. He manipulates and belittles at every opportunity. Sam's family also enjoys treating Meg as though she is a little less than they are.

Meg's mother finds fault with her, her career and the fact that she is not producing a child.

In fact, Meg puts up with emotional abuse from nearly every important person in her life.

Even after she has appeared on a television show highlighting her abilities as a baker, her loved ones treat her as though she has done something terrible by loving her work.

OK, that is where I quit.

I am sorry, but I simply was not interested in continuing to read about an adult who allowed herself to be verbally assaulted by nearly everyone in her life.

I know that Ms Clarke has written other books I will enjoy. This is not for me.

It is described as a feel good book....it made me feel like slapping Meg.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great to return to Seashell Cove. This book was a fun read and would be great to tote along to the beach.

I look forward to reading more about this seaside town.

[Meg Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid chick lit…doesn’t take itself too seriously! You’ll laugh, cry, and say “Oh! No!” Definitely a fun weekend read :c)

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really hated Sam from the beginning of the book! Good on you Meg for getting rid of him!!

[Sana Zameer · Rating 3 out of 5]

A yummy, feel good summer romance!!

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lighthearted, fun and easy read. Set in a quaint seaside town, full of colourful characters and some wonderful baking descriptions that make your mouth water. The plot was predictable and I did find Meg a bit of a doormat but overall enjoyable.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved each and every one of Karen's books that I have read. 'The Bakery At Seashell Cove' was no exception as I absolutely blinking well loved it but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely LOVED the character of Meg Larson. She is a young woman, who works in the local bakery and she thinks that she is living the dream because not only is she working as a baker but she is engaged to her childhood sweetheart and she lives in the idyllic sounding Seashell Cove. Meg is a lovely young lady but I have the distinct impression that she is suffering from a lack of self confidence. She seems to put herself down on occasion and I did wonder if this was because other people had put her down in the past. I so wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give Meg a hug and to reassure her that she is perfect just the way she is. Her boyfriend Sam isn't exactly that helpful either. Whether consciously or otherwise, he makes the occasional snide remarks and on occasion, he certainly takes her for granted and treats her like dirt. I so wanted to jump inside the pages of the book to give him a few dozen slaps with a wet fish. He goes away on a big cycle challenge and whilst he is away Meg discovers that a young lady is also on said trip but Sam conveniently forgot to mention that. Unsurprisingly Meg is not too happy about that. Meg is a feisty and determined young lady, who would love nothing better than to reopen the bakery- she is a fantastic baker. There's potentially trouble on the horizon because the owners of the bakery want to sell the building. It's during this period of time that she finds herself having to deal with Nathan, the local real estate agent, on a regular basis. Now he sounds like a real catch. He's good with children, he's kind, he's considerate and he treats Meg well. Out of the two I would much rather that Meg picks Nathan and bin Sam. Which man will Meg choose to be with? Will Meg be able to make a huge success of the bakery? Will Sam get his just desserts? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out because I am not going to tell you.
Oh my days this was certainly a read and a half. I was hooked on this book from the moment I read the synopsis and picked my Kindle up. I picked this book up at a good time for me as I was feeling a bit down in the dumps and in need of cheering up. This book cheered me up and then some. I became addicted to reading this book and I just had to keep getting my fix of one more page, one more chapter and well you get the picture. I picked up this book only intending to only read a couple of chapters but that intention soon went out of the window. I was so into the story and I liked the characters (well most of them anyway) so much that I didn't realise how much I had read until I looked up and realised that I had read 13 chapters. The page numbers flew past in a blur and before I knew it I had finished the book which I had mixed feelings about. I was pleased to finish the book because then I knew how the story ended but I was disappointed in finishing the book because I was enjoying the author's writing style, the story and the characters so much that I just wanted the book to continue. By the time I closed the back cover, I really did feel as though I had been through the emotional wringer with all the feelings of happiness, sadness, hope, despair and well you get the picture. I did find that I was chuckling away to myself all the way through this book.
In conclusion this is one hell of a book and I wholeheartedly recommend it to other readers. I can't wait to read what comes next from Karen Clarke. Here's hoping that we don't have too long to wait. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meg is one of three lifelong school friends, all now living in or around Seashell Cove. She, Cassie and Tillie have renewed their friendships and provide support, laughs and plenty of good memories. But, with Meg now going to marry Sam, her high school boyfriend, with all of the associated family pressures from wedding plans to grandchildren – she’s finding that her life isn’t all she hoped for. She bakes cakes – gorgeous popular cakes, and was the pastry chef for the Old Bakery – until the owner died and her job there ended. Without a will in place, the bakery is slated for sale – and Meg isn’t happy – she wants to bake her cakes and has dreams that another owner will hire her to manage the business.

Not everyone is thrilled with Meg’s rather loosely defined plans. Her mother is pushing for a grandchild, more now than ever with her neighbor and best friend Kath’s new grandson, a child she dotes on, unlike his mother who, married to a rich older man, is soon looking for her next thing that will bring her accolades and ‘happiness’. Sam, Meg’s fiancé is a selfish and self-absorbed man – working on his training for a bicycle trip from Paris to Geneva – anything that interferes with his own interests – that Meg may want- get a passive-aggressive, are you sure, or is that realistic with the wedding. We won’t even discuss his family- far too involved in the minute details of their life, with only his father being truly welcoming and understanding. But, not all is lost – as the estate agent in charge of the sale of the bakery is one very adorable Nathan, filling in while his brother recovers from an accident – and he’s instantly drawn to both Meg’s passion for baking and the easy camaraderie they have. His passion (and feelings ) for Meg are clearly evident to the soon to be anonymous (but almost not really to anyone but Meg) buyer who, after her appearance on a show dedicated to highlighting ‘Hidden Gems” throughout Britain airs, and Meg both spills her guts and shares her passion for cakes and baking.

This was adorable, and far more a very late coming of age story for Meg: she’s spent her entire life adjusting (or even ignoring) what she wants to make others happy. It was frustrating to watch her dance about issues and her own emotions, afraid to speak up, or worried that her own dreams are not realistic enough, or she isn’t good enough to make them happen. When you add in her own mother’s agoraphobia, Sam’s half-interest in anything that doesn’t put him first, and Meg’s own unfamiliarity with her own emotions and desires, it did take her a bit to get her feet under her. And, far from an easy journey, she’s hit with many different situations, choices and decisions that usually come when you are half her age…. It’s understandable that it takes her time to absorb the changes, and with the help of her best friends, her fiancé’s younger sister and a push from people who ‘know of what they speak” she bites the bullet and reaches for the things she wants most. Lovely character development, some intriguing situations and the constant support from friends gives Meg the start on her new, grown-up life that she so desperately deserves.

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

[Justkeepreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every so often a book will come along and speak to your heart and that you can relate to on a emotion level. This for me is one of those book, and I absolutely loved it. Seashell cove is a sounds like a really beautiful place that I would love to go and live there. Such a beautiful and stunning setting for a book. It is so lovely to find out about all these people who live here.

For me this book touched my heart on a personal level and I found myself in floods of tears at certain parts of this book. This book was so true to how people treat you and speak to you about this personal subject. Not quite realising how their words or actions really affect you. People just word vomit and just expect you to be able to deal with things. Not quite knowing how deploy their words and actions can hurt. I thought this book showed this subject in a very true to life manner.

In this book we met Meg Larson a character I wanted to be friends with immediately and immediately connected with on a personal level. Meg works in the Bakery in Seashell cove and has been working here for a really long time. It had always been her dream to run her own bakery and now her dreams are coming true sort of. Except for the fact that the Bakery has come under threat of closure due to needing to find a new owner as Mr Moseley the previous owner passed away and Didn’t leave the bakery to anyone in his will. Looking to make some money out of it Mr Moseley’s brother is determined to sell the shop to make some quick money. A tv programme has come to the little seaside town and wants to showcase the bakery as the star of the show and Meg is determined to use this opportunity to save the bakery. But will this happen? Will Meg be able to save the Bakery? And will the new owners keep Meg on and keep her dream alive?

Meg is also getting married to her childhood sweetheart Sam. Everything is going well except for when Meg meets local estate agent Nathan who is put in charge of selling the bakery and Meg is suddenly over come back with as her friends categories it as a little ‘crush’ but which is causing Meg to have second thoughts about her relationship with Sam. When Sam goes away on a bike tour in France. Meg and Nathan get closer as Meg starts worrying about the future of the bakery, Nathan becomes Megs shoulder to cry in and Meg realised that they have much more in common then her and Sam.

Will Meg get everything she has ever dreamed of? And her own happily ever after? Well you will need to read this beautiful book to find out

This book is absolutely wonderful and I extremely enjoyed reading it. Karen’s books also manage to put a big smile on my face and are also feel good and like a big warm hug. If I could give this book more then five stars I really, really would. This is my favourite book of Karen’s that I have read. Just due to the fact that I felt that I related to the subject matter at the heart of this book. This book is uplifting, feel good and absolutely beautiful. I adored it.

[Nicola Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been so lovely to return to Seashell Cove and to meet up with Meg again. She first appeared as one of Cassie's best friends in The Cafe at Seashell Cove but this time she's taking centre stage. I must say, I do love this kind of series in which there is the familiarity of the setting and some of the characters but they can be read as standalone stories.

First of all, don't read this book if you're really hungry. There is description after description of delicious cakes, breads, biscuits - you name it. But it made it the perfect book for me as I love cake!!

The previous book had touched on Meg's relationship with Sam. They'd been together since school and had sort of drifted along over the years. I guess that for each of them, being with the other one was just the most comfortable and easy option. But their relationship lacks that special something and when Meg meets Nathan, the really quite delectable agent tasked with selling the bakery that Meg loves, she realises that maybe she's been settling for Mr Not Quite Right after all.

I loved the fact that there's lots of baking in this book, and all the ups and downs regarding the bakery made for interesting reading too. I so wanted Meg to be able to run the bakery (she'd worked there for the previous owner before he died) and was just hoping that she got a chance to do so. There's loads of family stuff going on for Meg as well and her life was certainly a bit turbulent for a while, after years of bobbing along quite nicely. I thought she was an utterly charming character and I really wanted her to be happy.

I love Karen Clarke's books. They're so easy to read, with engaging characters, heart-warming storylines and gorgeous settings, and she gets the balance just right between serious issues and light-hearted humour. Her books are a joy to read and she's one of those authors whose books I get excited about before I even know anything about them.

Reading The Bakery at Seashell Cove is as pleasurable as tucking into a slice of your favourite cake. In fact why not do both at the same time and hit pleasure overload?! You won't be disappointed.

[Eve L-A Witherington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meg and Sam are a young couple engaged and soon to be married. Meg works part time in a cafe and the rest of the time in the old bakery as it awaits sale after the death of its owner.



Nathan whose overseeing the sale catches her eye and she starts to daydream about him much to the amusement of Cassie and Tilly her friends.



When she gets the chance to take part in Britain's hidden gems tv show she talks of never knowing her father and her mum's agoraphobia amongst things and soon the world or at least programme viewers learn their business.



Sam is too interested in Cycling and so she looks on Facebook and discovers George, a woman secretly in their cycling group. Whilst his family always seem to disapprove of Meg and judge her harshly.



Meg's mum suffers with agoraphobia and is also constantly pushing Meg to get pregnant ASAP as she is unawares of her daughter's growing unease and feelings about her situation.



So when Freya a rich local woman and her husband want to buy the bakery to become an ice cream parlour, Meh is unhappy but then an anonymous buyer appears...



facing up to her relationship and work life woes Meh needs to turn her life around fast and make herself truly happy forever.



This book was a lovely chick lit, women's fiction read and was full of drama. The writing was engaging and there were some hilarious one liners at times in this book. Meg's story will probably be relatable to women out there suffering the same issues. I would've liked some different scenarios with whom the anonymous buyer turns out to be but you shall have to judge that for yourself!



Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!