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Seasons by the Sea #1
Christmas Secrets by the Sea
Sometimes you don’t get the Christmas presents you imagined…
Tansy Merriweather is down on her luck. She’s lost her business and her relationship, and instead of a glamorous London apartment, her home is now a campervan on a Dorset beach. And as if things couldn’t get any worse, a scruffy dog called Brian with a taste for sardines has adopted her as his owner.
When Tansy’s new-found friends at the cafe in the bay help her find a job as a location scout for a new TV show, things start looking up. However, she soon discovers that the show’s glamorous star, Davin O’Riordan, is as grouchy as he is handsome – and just as Brian starts forging a touching romance with Davin’s elegant whippet Seelie, Tansy begins to wonder exactly what Davin’s fans see in him.
As Christmas approaches, Tansy and Davin discover each other’s secrets, and a new bond begins to grow between them. But how will they cope with the storms headed their way – and can they save the cafe from closing?
Tansy Merriweather is down on her luck. She’s lost her business and her relationship, and instead of a glamorous London apartment, her home is now a campervan on a Dorset beach. And as if things couldn’t get any worse, a scruffy dog called Brian with a taste for sardines has adopted her as his owner.
When Tansy’s new-found friends at the cafe in the bay help her find a job as a location scout for a new TV show, things start looking up. However, she soon discovers that the show’s glamorous star, Davin O’Riordan, is as grouchy as he is handsome – and just as Brian starts forging a touching romance with Davin’s elegant whippet Seelie, Tansy begins to wonder exactly what Davin’s fans see in him.
As Christmas approaches, Tansy and Davin discover each other’s secrets, and a new bond begins to grow between them. But how will they cope with the storms headed their way – and can they save the cafe from closing?
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2018
12 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Jane Lovering
52 books230 followersJane Lovering was born in Devon, England but, following extradition procedures, now lives in Yorkshire. She has five children, four cats, two dogs and doesn't believe in housework so the bacteria and dust are approaching sentience and now rank among the pets. Incidentally, she doesn’t believe in ironing either, and the children all learned self-defensive cookery at early ages. She works in a local school and also teaches creative writing, which are extreme ways of avoiding the washing up.
Published since 2008, she writes romantic comedies which are often described as ‘quirky’. One day she's going to find out what that means. Jane is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and has a first class honours degree in creative writing. In 2012, her novel Please Don't Stop the Music won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award by the RNA.
Published since 2008, she writes romantic comedies which are often described as ‘quirky’. One day she's going to find out what that means. Jane is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and has a first class honours degree in creative writing. In 2012, her novel Please Don't Stop the Music won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award by the RNA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 29, 2018
A heartwarming and heartwrenching read full of emotion and hope!
This is not a light fluffy Christmas story, this is a book full of emotion and struggle that will take you on a wonderful journey... as you all know I adore a fun festive story, but this book took hold of my heart and did not let go until the bitter end... an emotional ride that will make you smile, make you laugh, make you angry, make you cry, but at the end of the day it will leave you with a warm toasty feeling in your heart.... I truly loved this story from first page to last, I was completely captivated by these characters!
Tansy has lost everything her company, her boyfriend, her beautiful flat... The only thing she has left from her old life is a camper van, so she sets off in her van to temporarily live on the beach...Tansy finds herself in a small village where she befriends the owner of a café and her son, and takes a job as a TV location scout... turns out part of the job is taking care of the grumpy, grouchy, brooding, star Devin... i’m sure you can figure out where this is going? But let me tell you it was so much more than your typical romance, these two characters had some major depth and some major baggage... not to mention two adorable dogs who had a love story of their very own!
This was a very slow burning realistic romance full of angst and misunderstanding... both Tansy and Davin were likable sympathetic characters... both of their backstories were quite heartbreaking, but I loved reading about what made them the people they are today.... The secondary characters added so much charm to the story even the obnoxious vegan actress... this is the first book in the series, and I am really hoping that we will revisit these characters in future books...
Strongly encourage you to pick this up if you are a fan of a well done romance with some depth and emotion💕 don’t let the title fool you, this book can be read any time of the year!
*** many thanks to the author and the publisher for my copy of this book ***
This is not a light fluffy Christmas story, this is a book full of emotion and struggle that will take you on a wonderful journey... as you all know I adore a fun festive story, but this book took hold of my heart and did not let go until the bitter end... an emotional ride that will make you smile, make you laugh, make you angry, make you cry, but at the end of the day it will leave you with a warm toasty feeling in your heart.... I truly loved this story from first page to last, I was completely captivated by these characters!
Tansy has lost everything her company, her boyfriend, her beautiful flat... The only thing she has left from her old life is a camper van, so she sets off in her van to temporarily live on the beach...Tansy finds herself in a small village where she befriends the owner of a café and her son, and takes a job as a TV location scout... turns out part of the job is taking care of the grumpy, grouchy, brooding, star Devin... i’m sure you can figure out where this is going? But let me tell you it was so much more than your typical romance, these two characters had some major depth and some major baggage... not to mention two adorable dogs who had a love story of their very own!
This was a very slow burning realistic romance full of angst and misunderstanding... both Tansy and Davin were likable sympathetic characters... both of their backstories were quite heartbreaking, but I loved reading about what made them the people they are today.... The secondary characters added so much charm to the story even the obnoxious vegan actress... this is the first book in the series, and I am really hoping that we will revisit these characters in future books...
Strongly encourage you to pick this up if you are a fan of a well done romance with some depth and emotion💕 don’t let the title fool you, this book can be read any time of the year!
*** many thanks to the author and the publisher for my copy of this book ***
January 3, 2020
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is a romantic comedy about Tansy, who has lost everything, including her business and the man she loved, and Davin, an ordinary guy with a painful past, who just happens to be a handsome and famous actor.
This book is both hilariously funny and heartbreaking. You find yourself both laughing and crying, and the well written characters definitely touch your heart. There are two other stars in this book, the dogs, Seelie and Brian, who are integral parts of this story. If you love romantic comedies, and I mean real romance and the problems that come with it, you will love this book. If you are a dog lover you will love this book.
Although this is set at Christmas, it can be read anytime. This is the first book I’ve read by Jane Lovering, and I’m definitely going to read more.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
This book is both hilariously funny and heartbreaking. You find yourself both laughing and crying, and the well written characters definitely touch your heart. There are two other stars in this book, the dogs, Seelie and Brian, who are integral parts of this story. If you love romantic comedies, and I mean real romance and the problems that come with it, you will love this book. If you are a dog lover you will love this book.
Although this is set at Christmas, it can be read anytime. This is the first book I’ve read by Jane Lovering, and I’m definitely going to read more.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley. My review is voluntary.
December 17, 2018
Tansy Merriwether has pretty much hit rock bottom, in the last year she has lost her successful cupcake business, her business partner/ lover, her home and her money. Now she's living in a decrepit caravan on a Dorset beach. When she befriends the single mother who runs an isolated cafe nearby she hears about a TV crew which is filing a series in a nearby cove who might need someone to run odd jobs. When Tansy approaches the crew she finds out that she knows the director from when she lived in London. He suggests she could help the crew enormously by scouting for locations for a new series and taking the obnoxious male star with her, he and his female co-star are impossible when working together.
Davin O'Riordan isn't the man the PR people make him out to be, he isn't the man he pretends to be, he has lots of secrets but for some reason he likes Tansy, she's the only woman who doesn't swoon at his feet and who sees more than just a former model turned actor. But can two people learn to trust each other?
If I say that this book contains a sexy Irish actor, a teenage boy with a bottomless stomach, a single mother, Christmas, a vegan actress, a beautiful whippet and a smelly stray dog, and quaint English villages would you be interested? Yes, me too. This was charming, funny and a saccharine-free holiday romance. Maybe if I was being really picky I would have preferred fewer flashbacks to Davin's past (which didn't generally seem to add much) and maybe more to Tansy's past which (to me) still remains somewhat shrouded in mystery.
Overall, if Poldark revs your engine then I think you'll like Davin, he's been described as looking like Chris Hemsworth and Aidan Turner had a baby!
Recommended for fans of Sue Moorcroft.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Davin O'Riordan isn't the man the PR people make him out to be, he isn't the man he pretends to be, he has lots of secrets but for some reason he likes Tansy, she's the only woman who doesn't swoon at his feet and who sees more than just a former model turned actor. But can two people learn to trust each other?
If I say that this book contains a sexy Irish actor, a teenage boy with a bottomless stomach, a single mother, Christmas, a vegan actress, a beautiful whippet and a smelly stray dog, and quaint English villages would you be interested? Yes, me too. This was charming, funny and a saccharine-free holiday romance. Maybe if I was being really picky I would have preferred fewer flashbacks to Davin's past (which didn't generally seem to add much) and maybe more to Tansy's past which (to me) still remains somewhat shrouded in mystery.
Overall, if Poldark revs your engine then I think you'll like Davin, he's been described as looking like Chris Hemsworth and Aidan Turner had a baby!
Recommended for fans of Sue Moorcroft.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
December 15, 2018
Tansy's not having the best days of her life – she's running from a lost business and a broken heart, and a whole lot of guilt, shame and disappointment, when she is 'found' by a scruffy dog and a couple of situations that lead one into the other. Tansy ends up working an odd job for a TV show filming crew she runs into, which essentially means babysitting a really cocky actor and a super patronizing co-star of his. Angry at her life, or rather, the lack of logic in the fact that this is now somehow her life, Tansy is not in the best place when the story starts out. Meanwhile, Davin is your traditional brooding hero: handsome, but utterly full of... 'stuff' on the outside. In the end, you'll probably find out he's not actually like that, but he'll do a great job of convincing you he's not worth the air he's breathing at first. It's not long before he opens up to Tansy, and through her – to us, and shows just exactly what he is protecting so much with such a harsh picture on the outside.
If you're expecting open romance, well, that's not how this book is. I would say, this is more of a slice of life story, where the characters are struggling with disappointment and their respective pasts, trying to make something of their lives, and as a result, something comes from it. It's a very unobtrusive, silent kind of story. At first I was going to give it 3 stars because I couldn't connect to the characters and what was going on, but then the real reasons behind their actions came out, and they were deep and troubled – I was mesmerized. If at first the book seems like just another story, by the end it will have you exploring the deep pains of the human condition, betrayal by the closest people you have and coming to terms with it all. It's done beautifully through dialogue between the two main characters and it had me glued to the pages past the halfway point. I really do recommend this book, but I have to warn about triggers as well. But the trigger is a spoiler, so if you want to risk it, please don't keep reading. Triggers include:
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
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If you're expecting open romance, well, that's not how this book is. I would say, this is more of a slice of life story, where the characters are struggling with disappointment and their respective pasts, trying to make something of their lives, and as a result, something comes from it. It's a very unobtrusive, silent kind of story. At first I was going to give it 3 stars because I couldn't connect to the characters and what was going on, but then the real reasons behind their actions came out, and they were deep and troubled – I was mesmerized. If at first the book seems like just another story, by the end it will have you exploring the deep pains of the human condition, betrayal by the closest people you have and coming to terms with it all. It's done beautifully through dialogue between the two main characters and it had me glued to the pages past the halfway point. I really do recommend this book, but I have to warn about triggers as well. But the trigger is a spoiler, so if you want to risk it, please don't keep reading. Triggers include:
I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This has not affected my opinion.
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December 12, 2018
Not much Christmas in this book. Maybe this should just be called Secrets By the Sea and not be pushed into the snowmance category.
I'm not entirely sure how I felt about this book. Tansy was a very annoying character and Davin wasn't much better. The book may have been a better read if it focused on Karen and Neil or Kee or Larch. Basically anyone who isn't Tansy or Davin.
Overall it wasn't a bad read but it wasn't a good read either. I'm not sure why throughout the whole book no one thought to give poor Brian the dog a good bath. Instead they all just complained about how smelly and dirty he was.
I'm not entirely sure how I felt about this book. Tansy was a very annoying character and Davin wasn't much better. The book may have been a better read if it focused on Karen and Neil or Kee or Larch. Basically anyone who isn't Tansy or Davin.
Overall it wasn't a bad read but it wasn't a good read either. I'm not sure why throughout the whole book no one thought to give poor Brian the dog a good bath. Instead they all just complained about how smelly and dirty he was.
December 20, 2018
"Christmas Secrets by the Sea" is just the kind of book I like to read during the holiday season. Christmas is present but it isn't thrown in your face and there is a lot going on besides just cute romance. In the beginning of the book, the reader is introduced to Tansy and a scraggly stray she eventually names Brian. We know that Tansy is down on her luck, just recently losing her business, her home and her boyfriend. She has chosen to park her caravan on Dorset Beach and wait out the holidays. What she doesn't plan on is meeting new people and learning that sometimes you really can chose your own family.
There's lots to love about this book. There is a wonderful small town feel and as Tansy discovers a new job scouting filming locations for a local production company, she meets many new, wonderful and nerve-racking individuals. There is also a great puppy love story between Brian and a whippet named Seelie - talk about odd couples. There is some romance thrown into this book so if that turns you off, then you won't want to give it a go. But it's not over-the-top and it's actually a love-to-hate trope which I am finding I enjoy quite a bit. And there are some pretty dark secrets which are exposed by the end and it only made me love Tansy and Davin even more.
I probably wouldn't pick a book like this up to read most of the year but it was a perfect fit for the holiday season. And come on, with Brian and Seelie, you pretty much know it's going to be something I enjoy. I'm curious about the rest of the series when it releases because if it focuses on some of the characters we've already met, I'm anxious to see where it's headed.
There's lots to love about this book. There is a wonderful small town feel and as Tansy discovers a new job scouting filming locations for a local production company, she meets many new, wonderful and nerve-racking individuals. There is also a great puppy love story between Brian and a whippet named Seelie - talk about odd couples. There is some romance thrown into this book so if that turns you off, then you won't want to give it a go. But it's not over-the-top and it's actually a love-to-hate trope which I am finding I enjoy quite a bit. And there are some pretty dark secrets which are exposed by the end and it only made me love Tansy and Davin even more.
I probably wouldn't pick a book like this up to read most of the year but it was a perfect fit for the holiday season. And come on, with Brian and Seelie, you pretty much know it's going to be something I enjoy. I'm curious about the rest of the series when it releases because if it focuses on some of the characters we've already met, I'm anxious to see where it's headed.
December 21, 2018
I’ve often said that my Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a book from Jane Lovering – and with this lovely read, it most certainly is. It’s one of those books you could happily read at any time of the year, set at Christmas but not overflowing with tinsel and lights, full of lovely characters whose life stories tug at your heartstrings and instantly make them your new best friends as you watch them stumble their way to a hoped for happy ending. Davin did take a while to win my heart – turning on his film star smile for all his adoring fans, being a thoroughly miserable sod when in lovely Tansy’s company, until things start to simmer a little.
Goodness, what dreadful lives these characters have had – I liked the way Davin’s back story was slowly revealed, punctuating the present day story, and poor Tansy’s rather been through the mill too. I so enjoyed the whole story, full of the most wonderfully drawn characters – including some lovely cameos of friends some readers will remember from Christmas Steepleton. The TV show encampment makes a great backdrop and location for developing some of the more minor characters, combining the world of the cafe and its problems with the catering van and its customers.
And if I’m discussing characters, I can’t possibly leave out Brian. I’m really not a very doggy person, but he’s SO wonderful. Ok, he smells a bit, and you might not want to run your hands through his fur (even if that were possible), but with apologies to the two-legged variety he was my favourite character in the whole book. He doesn’t talk – that would be just silly – but he expresses so much emotion with a twist of his eyebrows or a joyful gallop along a windswept beach. I just loved his romance with pedigree Seelie, described as “Dennis the Menace in hot pursuit of… Claudia Schiffer” – not the only romance in the book by any means, but the one that perhaps most filled me with joy.
And I’m not usually particularly keen on teenagers either, but I really liked Rory. I’m no expert, but he was tremendously “real” to me – I loved his excitement and enthusiasm about little things, the caring and warm heart under the gruff exterior, the archetypal difficult teenager sometimes letting out the little boy within.
The other thing that’ll really stick in your mind from this book is the atrocious weather – not the crisp snow you might have expected, but the sort of biblical rain and ferocious wind I always thought was more of a Yorkshire speciality. The descriptions are wonderful – but I might just avoid Dorset in future at this time of the year, particularly if I’m in a camper van.
The writing, as always, is superb – Jane Lovering has that ability to choose exactly the right words and images to make you laugh, with a wonderful touch of the ridiculous, then moving seamlessly to a scene of such poignancy that it catches your breath. If you’ve never read one of her books before, do give this one a try – I really think it might be my new favourite. But if you have already discovered her writing, I expect you’ll already be looking forward to reading this one over Christmas – and I promise you’ll enjoy every moment.
Goodness, what dreadful lives these characters have had – I liked the way Davin’s back story was slowly revealed, punctuating the present day story, and poor Tansy’s rather been through the mill too. I so enjoyed the whole story, full of the most wonderfully drawn characters – including some lovely cameos of friends some readers will remember from Christmas Steepleton. The TV show encampment makes a great backdrop and location for developing some of the more minor characters, combining the world of the cafe and its problems with the catering van and its customers.
And if I’m discussing characters, I can’t possibly leave out Brian. I’m really not a very doggy person, but he’s SO wonderful. Ok, he smells a bit, and you might not want to run your hands through his fur (even if that were possible), but with apologies to the two-legged variety he was my favourite character in the whole book. He doesn’t talk – that would be just silly – but he expresses so much emotion with a twist of his eyebrows or a joyful gallop along a windswept beach. I just loved his romance with pedigree Seelie, described as “Dennis the Menace in hot pursuit of… Claudia Schiffer” – not the only romance in the book by any means, but the one that perhaps most filled me with joy.
And I’m not usually particularly keen on teenagers either, but I really liked Rory. I’m no expert, but he was tremendously “real” to me – I loved his excitement and enthusiasm about little things, the caring and warm heart under the gruff exterior, the archetypal difficult teenager sometimes letting out the little boy within.
The other thing that’ll really stick in your mind from this book is the atrocious weather – not the crisp snow you might have expected, but the sort of biblical rain and ferocious wind I always thought was more of a Yorkshire speciality. The descriptions are wonderful – but I might just avoid Dorset in future at this time of the year, particularly if I’m in a camper van.
The writing, as always, is superb – Jane Lovering has that ability to choose exactly the right words and images to make you laugh, with a wonderful touch of the ridiculous, then moving seamlessly to a scene of such poignancy that it catches your breath. If you’ve never read one of her books before, do give this one a try – I really think it might be my new favourite. But if you have already discovered her writing, I expect you’ll already be looking forward to reading this one over Christmas – and I promise you’ll enjoy every moment.
December 16, 2019
This is an easy enough Christmas read about Tansy who has run away from her successful life to Dorset in a camper-van, and Davin who is a very famous heartthrob making a movie in Dorset, and how their paths collide.
If you're after a Christmas story with a bit of romance, dogs, and rough Dorset winter weather then this isn't a bad way to spend a few hours.
Although I enjoyed it well enough, I never really believed in the romance and I didn't think the characters were that well developed. Everyone felt a bit "same, same" and the only differences being what was told to us, rather than exploring that ourselves through their thoughts and actions. However, this is a short Christmas read and recommended for those looking for something that doesn't take a lot of thinking at this time of year.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you're after a Christmas story with a bit of romance, dogs, and rough Dorset winter weather then this isn't a bad way to spend a few hours.
Although I enjoyed it well enough, I never really believed in the romance and I didn't think the characters were that well developed. Everyone felt a bit "same, same" and the only differences being what was told to us, rather than exploring that ourselves through their thoughts and actions. However, this is a short Christmas read and recommended for those looking for something that doesn't take a lot of thinking at this time of year.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2018
One of the reasons I chose to read this book is because I thoroughly enjoyed the author's previous book 'Little Teashop of Horrors' and the other reason is I thought it'd be Christmas themed, but to be honest there wasn't much of a Christmas feel to it at all nor much festivities.
However despite that it was still a good read, a very well thought out story that is quite emotional at times and heartfelt in places throughout the story.
I loved getting to know the characters some of whom were a hoot as they came out with some very weird words and phases. The two dogs Brian and Seelie were certainly unique and I loved how they had their own little storylines going on.
Looking forward to reading the second book to the series.
However despite that it was still a good read, a very well thought out story that is quite emotional at times and heartfelt in places throughout the story.
I loved getting to know the characters some of whom were a hoot as they came out with some very weird words and phases. The two dogs Brian and Seelie were certainly unique and I loved how they had their own little storylines going on.
Looking forward to reading the second book to the series.
January 2, 2020
5 Words: Friendship, family, survival, expectations, community.
This is not a super-Christmassy book. It's more a case of the story happens around Christmas. Which is great as it turns out that was what I needed. It wasn't really heavy on the romance either, which is also something that it turns out I needed!
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is very much a slice of life story - one of my favourite kinds. It wasn't full of huge revelations and shock twists, although it did have its fill of the small dramas that make up life. I liked the was the story focused a lot on communities, on the way they change and develop.
I couldn't say that I really connected with any of the characters. Which is weird because I couldn't tell you how and ordinarily if I don't connect with characters then I don't enjoy the story. I think it's because it was just so lovely and made me laugh a lot.
I really enjoyed the dogs - the cute snapshots of every day life as a dog owner, the shenanigans that the pups got up to. And the chaos that they created.
This is not a super-Christmassy book. It's more a case of the story happens around Christmas. Which is great as it turns out that was what I needed. It wasn't really heavy on the romance either, which is also something that it turns out I needed!
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is very much a slice of life story - one of my favourite kinds. It wasn't full of huge revelations and shock twists, although it did have its fill of the small dramas that make up life. I liked the was the story focused a lot on communities, on the way they change and develop.
I couldn't say that I really connected with any of the characters. Which is weird because I couldn't tell you how and ordinarily if I don't connect with characters then I don't enjoy the story. I think it's because it was just so lovely and made me laugh a lot.
I really enjoyed the dogs - the cute snapshots of every day life as a dog owner, the shenanigans that the pups got up to. And the chaos that they created.
November 24, 2018
I'm a fan of Jane's books, so when I saw an ARC was available, I snapped it up and read it straight away.
Tansy is living in a camper van (in winter!) and is currently parked up somewhere near the Dorset coast. Something has happened to her in the past and she's mostly trying not to think about it. She's been adopted by a smelly dog called Brian. I love the idea of Brian, but I don't think I'd like to meet him in real life. Not unless he's been thoroughly washed first.
Davin is an up and coming Irish actor who is in Dorset filming a thing about life guards. He's quite grumpy. Tansy ends up having to 'babysit' Davin - as in get him away from set for a day so that he and his co-star don't end up killing each other. Davin has secrets of his own. He also has a bitch called Seelie ... whom Brian seems to be in love with.
Davin is lovely and unusually emotionally intelligent. Tansy is just the right amount of prickly. There's a lot of weather in this book - wet, mainly. There's also a nice little foray into Christmas Steepleton (as featured in The Boys of Christmas, which I love dearly).
All in all, another great read from Jane Lovering.
Usual disclaimer - I know Jane in real life, but I was a fan of her books well before I met her. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher (thank you!).
Tansy is living in a camper van (in winter!) and is currently parked up somewhere near the Dorset coast. Something has happened to her in the past and she's mostly trying not to think about it. She's been adopted by a smelly dog called Brian. I love the idea of Brian, but I don't think I'd like to meet him in real life. Not unless he's been thoroughly washed first.
Davin is an up and coming Irish actor who is in Dorset filming a thing about life guards. He's quite grumpy. Tansy ends up having to 'babysit' Davin - as in get him away from set for a day so that he and his co-star don't end up killing each other. Davin has secrets of his own. He also has a bitch called Seelie ... whom Brian seems to be in love with.
Davin is lovely and unusually emotionally intelligent. Tansy is just the right amount of prickly. There's a lot of weather in this book - wet, mainly. There's also a nice little foray into Christmas Steepleton (as featured in The Boys of Christmas, which I love dearly).
All in all, another great read from Jane Lovering.
Usual disclaimer - I know Jane in real life, but I was a fan of her books well before I met her. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher (thank you!).
December 27, 2018
I didn’t get far with this book. The sentences are really long and over-descriptive, and because of this I struggled to concentrate on the story and get involved in it.
December 6, 2018
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
What an entertaining, wonderful story. I was immediately absorbed by these two broken people – Davin and Tansy – and their initial mutual hostility was really well written.
Our aloof hero, Davin, is a great addition to the gallery of wounded heroes, hiding beneath layers of broodiness, rudeness and the “sulk factor” a great deal of vulnerability and a really caring and nice person. I loved how the author, Jane Lovering, slowly revealed the solitary man and the “lost boy with his dog” of the past. I also liked the fact that he and his family managed to succeed despite all the problems. However, I would have liked his secret to be more elaborated.
Tansy is a great heroine, too, her humor and sarcasm always tempered with intelligence and an innate kindness.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Dorset coast, the secondary characters; and, finally, the dogs, Brian and Seelie: they are characters in its own right, with their animal personalities and quirks. They are endearing and so fun to read.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Farrago, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
What an entertaining, wonderful story. I was immediately absorbed by these two broken people – Davin and Tansy – and their initial mutual hostility was really well written.
Our aloof hero, Davin, is a great addition to the gallery of wounded heroes, hiding beneath layers of broodiness, rudeness and the “sulk factor” a great deal of vulnerability and a really caring and nice person. I loved how the author, Jane Lovering, slowly revealed the solitary man and the “lost boy with his dog” of the past. I also liked the fact that he and his family managed to succeed despite all the problems. However, I would have liked his secret to be more elaborated.
Tansy is a great heroine, too, her humor and sarcasm always tempered with intelligence and an innate kindness.
I loved the vivid descriptions of the Dorset coast, the secondary characters; and, finally, the dogs, Brian and Seelie: they are characters in its own right, with their animal personalities and quirks. They are endearing and so fun to read.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Farrago, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
December 10, 2018
This was a fun to read holiday romance. A fast read, but by no means without substance or depth. I found the main characters to be realistic and believable, likeable but with flaws. There are also a couple dogs in the story, which help round out the plot and move it along in spots. I enjoyed getting to know the back stories of some of the main characters, and look forward to reading more in future books in this series. There are some funny moments, some sad moments, some nail-biting moments, and some moments that may make you say, "Awww!" I enjoyed my first Jane Lovering book and can't wait to read my next!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 21, 2019
Tansy has lost everything, her smart job, flat and boyfriend and has ended up penniless in a camper van on a beach in Dorset...... her only friend Brian the scruffy dog who is determined to adopt her! As there is a TV company on location down there she manages to get some casual work..... looking after the grumpy star Davin! Things might not start off to well between them but if you add Davin's whippet to the mix to befriend Brian things can only get better!
Another lovely book by this author, you know that you are going to be left with a nice warm feeling without the book being too fluffy. I liked both of the main characters, especially Davin..... and Brian of course!
Another lovely book by this author, you know that you are going to be left with a nice warm feeling without the book being too fluffy. I liked both of the main characters, especially Davin..... and Brian of course!
September 30, 2019
I was charmed from the first page, instantly swept up into the lives of the characters. Christmas books always have this whimsical charm that makes you feel warm an fuzzy as a reader. This book especially so because both Tansy and Davin has huge issues to overcome. I just have to say I loved Brian. He made me smile every time.
A sweet and endearing tale of hope and second chances that will leave you smiling at the end.
thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A sweet and endearing tale of hope and second chances that will leave you smiling at the end.
thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 10, 2018
Not come across this author before. But I highly enjoyed this book. it's heartwarming, engaging, entertaining. And full of all the Christmas sparkle and spirit without being fluffy or over the top. All characters were great, both two legged and four legged
I look forward to reading other books by this writer.
Highly recommended!
I look forward to reading other books by this writer.
Highly recommended!
January 20, 2019
actual rating: 2.5 stars
I basically only read romance novels lounging on the beach in the middle of summer or curled up on my couch leading up to Christmas. This book was both a Christmas "snowmance" and a beach read!!!
There's just something about reading Christmas books that automatically attracts me, even if I wouldn't pick it up the other 11 months out of the year.
This is a very stereotypical Christmastime story: two strangers, Tansy and Davin, meet (by the beach!!) and in the whirlwind of real-life struggles camouflaged by the holiday season, they get thrown together. After some tense words and exchanges, they may or may not fall in love!
I really enjoyed Dorset and the small, beach town vibe this story had. I had a very clear image of what the world looked like to them, and I enjoyed how the language and details matched up with the setting.
The writing style was okay; not necessarily my favorite but not bad enough to make me want to stop reading. The dialogue was extremely cheesy and forced at times. The corniest factor didn't bother me as much because it fit in nicely with the story and the setting, but sometimes the characters felt awkward saying their lines.
I didn't enjoy Tansy at all, but I did sympathize with her. I enjoyed seeing her grow as a character throughout the story and rebuild herself, although I wish she could've done on her own without Davin's help. By the end of the story, I didn't feel her character development had changed all that much, but there was still something.
One of my struggles with this story was how repetitive Tansy (and therefore, the writing) was. She would constantly repeat the same catchphrases to other characters, and when she started thinking and getting in her head, unfortunately it was easy for me to gloss over her complaints.
Davin, however, was such a fun character! I loved his storyline and learning more about him as the story progressed. He had some funny one-liners and honestly was not nearly as annoying as I was anticipating or as he was described.
Tansy and Davin's relationship started off great. There was definitely a lot of tension at the beginning and I really enjoyed reading their scenes together. There was definitely a strong build up to their romantic relationship, but when it finally got there I felt it was a bit forced and rushed and not as passionate as I would've liked.
This book took me weeks to read, but then I ending up reading the last 25% in an evening. I'm honestly surprised my eyes didn't roll right out of my head, there was just so much cringing!
Honestly, if you're reading this review in December and specifically looking for a Christmastime read, then definitely try it. I didn't feel like it was a waste of my time by reading it and the enjoyable scenes definitely stick out. There wasn't honestly a specific scene that was terrible, just some of the dialogue was so awkward!
The other 11 months of the year... hard pass thank you, next.
I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I basically only read romance novels lounging on the beach in the middle of summer or curled up on my couch leading up to Christmas. This book was both a Christmas "snowmance" and a beach read!!!
There's just something about reading Christmas books that automatically attracts me, even if I wouldn't pick it up the other 11 months out of the year.
This is a very stereotypical Christmastime story: two strangers, Tansy and Davin, meet (by the beach!!) and in the whirlwind of real-life struggles camouflaged by the holiday season, they get thrown together. After some tense words and exchanges, they may or may not fall in love!
I really enjoyed Dorset and the small, beach town vibe this story had. I had a very clear image of what the world looked like to them, and I enjoyed how the language and details matched up with the setting.
The writing style was okay; not necessarily my favorite but not bad enough to make me want to stop reading. The dialogue was extremely cheesy and forced at times. The corniest factor didn't bother me as much because it fit in nicely with the story and the setting, but sometimes the characters felt awkward saying their lines.
I didn't enjoy Tansy at all, but I did sympathize with her. I enjoyed seeing her grow as a character throughout the story and rebuild herself, although I wish she could've done on her own without Davin's help. By the end of the story, I didn't feel her character development had changed all that much, but there was still something.
One of my struggles with this story was how repetitive Tansy (and therefore, the writing) was. She would constantly repeat the same catchphrases to other characters, and when she started thinking and getting in her head, unfortunately it was easy for me to gloss over her complaints.
Davin, however, was such a fun character! I loved his storyline and learning more about him as the story progressed. He had some funny one-liners and honestly was not nearly as annoying as I was anticipating or as he was described.
Tansy and Davin's relationship started off great. There was definitely a lot of tension at the beginning and I really enjoyed reading their scenes together. There was definitely a strong build up to their romantic relationship, but when it finally got there I felt it was a bit forced and rushed and not as passionate as I would've liked.
This book took me weeks to read, but then I ending up reading the last 25% in an evening. I'm honestly surprised my eyes didn't roll right out of my head, there was just so much cringing!
Honestly, if you're reading this review in December and specifically looking for a Christmastime read, then definitely try it. I didn't feel like it was a waste of my time by reading it and the enjoyable scenes definitely stick out. There wasn't honestly a specific scene that was terrible, just some of the dialogue was so awkward!
The other 11 months of the year... hard pass thank you, next.
I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2018
I really liked this book. I've read a couple of Jane Lovering's other books and they are always a bit of a different type of romance. In general, I find British romance to be "slower" than American romance. This isn't a bad thing. What I'm trying to say is that the British romance authors that I've read seem to develop their MCs and the connection between them much more than the typical American romance. There's rarely a case of insta-lust and there is usually a firm friendship developing before the hero and heroine become intimate. I love the pacing of such romances, but compared to American romances, where I swear it's almost required that the MCs become intimate by (if not before) the 50% mark, British romances often seem slower paced. Such is the case for Christmas Secrets by the Sea. There is so much going on with both Tansy and Davin and the author takes the time to develop their personalities and form a strong connection between them. They both have hard outer shells, and what is initially visible on the surface is not at all what is going on beneath those shells but those inner layers are revealed slowly and only after they've built up some trust.
I also find it interesting that the book is being marketed as a Christmas story. Although it's set at that time of year, and there is talk and scenes of the holidays, it doesn't have much of a typically "christmasy", celebratory, or holiday feel, it's much more serious than that. However, the underlying theme of the book is forgiveness and redemption, so the title is appropriate in that sense. Jane Lovering also did a fantastic job in evoking the feeling of winter, paralleling how barren Tansy feels inside after losing everything that was important to her. I felt cold most of the time as I was reading the descriptions of the Dorset cost and the wild winter winds and storms. Overall, a great job in evoking the time and place and drawing the reader into the story. I also have to mention Brian and Seelie, the two dogs owned by Tansy and Davin. They were both smart and adorable and I loved the little romance that developed between them also. If you are a pet lover, there are plenty of scenes with both of them, they aren't just window dressing.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I also find it interesting that the book is being marketed as a Christmas story. Although it's set at that time of year, and there is talk and scenes of the holidays, it doesn't have much of a typically "christmasy", celebratory, or holiday feel, it's much more serious than that. However, the underlying theme of the book is forgiveness and redemption, so the title is appropriate in that sense. Jane Lovering also did a fantastic job in evoking the feeling of winter, paralleling how barren Tansy feels inside after losing everything that was important to her. I felt cold most of the time as I was reading the descriptions of the Dorset cost and the wild winter winds and storms. Overall, a great job in evoking the time and place and drawing the reader into the story. I also have to mention Brian and Seelie, the two dogs owned by Tansy and Davin. They were both smart and adorable and I loved the little romance that developed between them also. If you are a pet lover, there are plenty of scenes with both of them, they aren't just window dressing.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2020
ARC provided by the publisher, Duckworth Books, in exchange for an honest review.
How could I not give it five stars??
To start with, it was amazing. I was a bit confused in the beginning, as in what the hell is happening, but that was probably because I didn’t remember the blurb properly. But after sorting things out, it all made sense.
No to begin with cover, it is splendid! I mean just look at it, pause, and then think that it’s going to be an amazing read. Moving on to the title, well, there were plenty of secrets in here. I mean there were parts that were hidden up till the end and that too very beautifully. The love and the tragic that has been brought in here doesn’t appear to be an act, it gels well with the plot and the whole background of the story.
And how about you now? There’s more to you than meets the eye, Tansy Merriwether. You’ve lost something. I can see it in the way you move; the way you keep the world out.’
I was really glad that the suspense was maintained at least for more than half of the story. It didn’t appear as if the author had to do much work in progressing the story and it was being dragged. It appeared to be a natural.
Moving on to the characters, I don’t think there was anyone in here, well apart from one or two but I guess that’s kind of like a mandate (no fun if there isn’t one character that appears to be a stupid, idiot and blubbering mess), that I didn’t like. There were moments wherein I was annoyed by some of the characters but otherwise they were gems. I kind of appreciate that because it was like more than meets the eye, and at the same time being realistic.
At this point, I honestly don’t know what I am writing considering I don’t have much time, but it was a beautiful, emotional, sensitive and humorous read. Did I mention dogs? No? Then definitely sweet as well as cute!
Its paws churned the sand into gobbets which rained down around the retreating shape so it vanished in a shingly backwash as it bore down on the slender figure of the whippet at the waves’ edge, like Dennis the Menace in hot pursuit of a paddling Claudia Schiffer.
How could I not give it five stars??
To start with, it was amazing. I was a bit confused in the beginning, as in what the hell is happening, but that was probably because I didn’t remember the blurb properly. But after sorting things out, it all made sense.
No to begin with cover, it is splendid! I mean just look at it, pause, and then think that it’s going to be an amazing read. Moving on to the title, well, there were plenty of secrets in here. I mean there were parts that were hidden up till the end and that too very beautifully. The love and the tragic that has been brought in here doesn’t appear to be an act, it gels well with the plot and the whole background of the story.
And how about you now? There’s more to you than meets the eye, Tansy Merriwether. You’ve lost something. I can see it in the way you move; the way you keep the world out.’
I was really glad that the suspense was maintained at least for more than half of the story. It didn’t appear as if the author had to do much work in progressing the story and it was being dragged. It appeared to be a natural.
Moving on to the characters, I don’t think there was anyone in here, well apart from one or two but I guess that’s kind of like a mandate (no fun if there isn’t one character that appears to be a stupid, idiot and blubbering mess), that I didn’t like. There were moments wherein I was annoyed by some of the characters but otherwise they were gems. I kind of appreciate that because it was like more than meets the eye, and at the same time being realistic.
At this point, I honestly don’t know what I am writing considering I don’t have much time, but it was a beautiful, emotional, sensitive and humorous read. Did I mention dogs? No? Then definitely sweet as well as cute!
Its paws churned the sand into gobbets which rained down around the retreating shape so it vanished in a shingly backwash as it bore down on the slender figure of the whippet at the waves’ edge, like Dennis the Menace in hot pursuit of a paddling Claudia Schiffer.
November 29, 2018
This was a very enjoyable story set right on the beach in Dorset. I loved Brian, the scruffy abandoned dog that Tansy took in and looked after and the beautiful whippet, Seelie, that he was in love with!
Tansy is living in a camper van on the dunes in Dorset after having lost her thriving business to her nasty ex. So she's licking her wounds and contemplating her next move whilst living in a freezing camper van in the middle of nowhere. But then she find out they are filming a very popular coastal series in the next bay over and the director turns out to be an old London friend of Tansy who offers her work scouting out locations for a new series, and 'adult-sitting' his star, Davin.
Davin was a right grumpy sod for about half the book, it did take me quite a while to warm to him, which is unusual for an Irish character for me, they're usually so charming. He did have his reasons for being grouchy, secrets which are slowly revealed as he and Tansy get closer.
The beach cafe near Tansy's camper van is in danger of closing as the elderly owner/benefactor has just died and his relatives want to sell. So Tansy and Davin work together to help save the cafe and help the lady running it, Karen, and her 14 year old son Toby, from losing their home and Karen's job.
I really liked Tansy's character, and did feel really sorry for her when the full story of how she ended up broke and living in a camper van after owning a thriving and expanding business in London was revealed. But it worked out for her anyway as she ended up just where she should be, in Devon with a (not so grouchy by the end of the book!) Irishman, instead of in London with a cheating, lying ex - every cloud has a silver lining.
Very enjoyable book with a fair bit of drama towards the end (the dogs are OK!). I see that it's book number one of the Seasons By The Sea series and I really look forward to reading the rest of this series.
Tansy is living in a camper van on the dunes in Dorset after having lost her thriving business to her nasty ex. So she's licking her wounds and contemplating her next move whilst living in a freezing camper van in the middle of nowhere. But then she find out they are filming a very popular coastal series in the next bay over and the director turns out to be an old London friend of Tansy who offers her work scouting out locations for a new series, and 'adult-sitting' his star, Davin.
Davin was a right grumpy sod for about half the book, it did take me quite a while to warm to him, which is unusual for an Irish character for me, they're usually so charming. He did have his reasons for being grouchy, secrets which are slowly revealed as he and Tansy get closer.
The beach cafe near Tansy's camper van is in danger of closing as the elderly owner/benefactor has just died and his relatives want to sell. So Tansy and Davin work together to help save the cafe and help the lady running it, Karen, and her 14 year old son Toby, from losing their home and Karen's job.
I really liked Tansy's character, and did feel really sorry for her when the full story of how she ended up broke and living in a camper van after owning a thriving and expanding business in London was revealed. But it worked out for her anyway as she ended up just where she should be, in Devon with a (not so grouchy by the end of the book!) Irishman, instead of in London with a cheating, lying ex - every cloud has a silver lining.
Very enjoyable book with a fair bit of drama towards the end (the dogs are OK!). I see that it's book number one of the Seasons By The Sea series and I really look forward to reading the rest of this series.
December 11, 2018
Christmas Secrets by the Sea, Jane Lovering
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Humour, romance
I've read several of Jane's stories now, and she has a style of writing I really like. I'm cautious when a book is styled as “humour” as so many are just that forced, OTT that I simply just don't like them. Jane's humour though is typical British subtle humour.
The romance is muted, a side part of the overall story but was very satisfying and the perfect ending.
I loved the characters, Tansy, clearly escaping from something – but what? It takes the full length of the book for everything to come out, little bits are released along the story but you always know she's holding back something more. Likewise Davin, he's so obnoxious to begin then as we get to know the real man, the secrets of his past I really liked him. He's got a real sensitivity about him, something that isn't apparent until we get to know him.
The rest of the cast are great too, Karen from the cafe, Rory, a typical teen, written so well. Everything's a drama at that age, its all highs or all down dramas....I loved his openness and how close he was to his mum, how protective of her he was. Even Larch had me warming to her by the end. People really aren't as they first seem all the while, some just need you to get to know them, in real life and in books.
Then there's the real stars of the story Brian and Seelie, they were so perfect. They brought a lightness into more serious moments, brought people together, brought in some gentle humour ( Brian and the ever present sardines and seaweed) and provided real emotional support to Davin and Tansy, something they both really needed.
Its a wonderful story, fully of whimsy and gentle humour, a terrific story and wonderful characters, all wrapped up in a very satisfying ending.
Stars: Five, a fantastic read, one that kept me gripped, sniggering one moment and emotional the next.
Arc via Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Humour, romance
I've read several of Jane's stories now, and she has a style of writing I really like. I'm cautious when a book is styled as “humour” as so many are just that forced, OTT that I simply just don't like them. Jane's humour though is typical British subtle humour.
The romance is muted, a side part of the overall story but was very satisfying and the perfect ending.
I loved the characters, Tansy, clearly escaping from something – but what? It takes the full length of the book for everything to come out, little bits are released along the story but you always know she's holding back something more. Likewise Davin, he's so obnoxious to begin then as we get to know the real man, the secrets of his past I really liked him. He's got a real sensitivity about him, something that isn't apparent until we get to know him.
The rest of the cast are great too, Karen from the cafe, Rory, a typical teen, written so well. Everything's a drama at that age, its all highs or all down dramas....I loved his openness and how close he was to his mum, how protective of her he was. Even Larch had me warming to her by the end. People really aren't as they first seem all the while, some just need you to get to know them, in real life and in books.
Then there's the real stars of the story Brian and Seelie, they were so perfect. They brought a lightness into more serious moments, brought people together, brought in some gentle humour ( Brian and the ever present sardines and seaweed) and provided real emotional support to Davin and Tansy, something they both really needed.
Its a wonderful story, fully of whimsy and gentle humour, a terrific story and wonderful characters, all wrapped up in a very satisfying ending.
Stars: Five, a fantastic read, one that kept me gripped, sniggering one moment and emotional the next.
Arc via Netgalley and publishers
December 20, 2019
I was pulled in by the premise of Christmas Secrets by the Sea and by main character Tansy's backstory. Previously having had a happy life in a beautiful flat in London, she loses it all one day: her job, boyfriend and the flat she loved.
Left with no belongings except a camper van, she takes off to the seaside and parks up on the dunes. Unsure what to do next, she finds Brian, a sardine-loving dog and from then he's her companion.
The beach café proves a cosy place to get a bite to eat and get to know the owner and her son. I thought the atmosphere of all of the settings in the book could have been fleshed out more so I really felt like I was on the beach or in the café or wherever.
When she meets Davin she realises he is not an easy person to get on with, but there's something about him.....
I was expecting romance. And Christmas. But what I got was a lot of backstory and less of a plot.
This was the first time I struggled to get into a book and the second 50% was better than the first. I felt more engaged then and like how the characters opened up more (Davin and Tansy).
I wanted to know more about the secondary characters.
There were some good descriptions in the novel but long sentences let down the flow. I thought the mention of romance was only (barely) alluded to and I would have loved more obvious romance.
Rather than than a romance, this is more a story about a seaside community and how they helped a stranger move on.
I did feel for Tansy and liked the café owner Karen. I wanted to know more about Rory.
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is the first novel I have reviewed by Jane Lovering. This is the first in a series and I am curious to find out how the story continues in the other books in the series.
Thanks to Jane Lovering and publisher Farrago for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars.
Left with no belongings except a camper van, she takes off to the seaside and parks up on the dunes. Unsure what to do next, she finds Brian, a sardine-loving dog and from then he's her companion.
The beach café proves a cosy place to get a bite to eat and get to know the owner and her son. I thought the atmosphere of all of the settings in the book could have been fleshed out more so I really felt like I was on the beach or in the café or wherever.
When she meets Davin she realises he is not an easy person to get on with, but there's something about him.....
I was expecting romance. And Christmas. But what I got was a lot of backstory and less of a plot.
This was the first time I struggled to get into a book and the second 50% was better than the first. I felt more engaged then and like how the characters opened up more (Davin and Tansy).
I wanted to know more about the secondary characters.
There were some good descriptions in the novel but long sentences let down the flow. I thought the mention of romance was only (barely) alluded to and I would have loved more obvious romance.
Rather than than a romance, this is more a story about a seaside community and how they helped a stranger move on.
I did feel for Tansy and liked the café owner Karen. I wanted to know more about Rory.
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is the first novel I have reviewed by Jane Lovering. This is the first in a series and I am curious to find out how the story continues in the other books in the series.
Thanks to Jane Lovering and publisher Farrago for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
3 stars.
November 29, 2018
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
After losing her business and home to her scheming ex, Tansy Merriweather finds herself living out of a van on a beach in Dorset. While she has no intention of staying long, she knows she doesn't have the money to keep traveling, and is forced to look into employment. Unfortunately for her, the only job she seems to find is working as a location scout for a TV show. It's here she meets the prickly actor, Davin "Not Gavin" O'Riordan. Davin is a bit of a newcomer to the acting scene, but already has a reputation as being grouchy and difficult to work with. However, after some initial verbal sparring, the two find in each other something of a kindred spirit, and soon the two work to save a local cafe, as well as help each other overcome past sorrows.
While I was definitely expecting a much happier and lighter read, Christmas Secrets by the Sea was an engaging read with a delightful cast of unique characters. I loved the believable slow-burn relationship between Tansy and Davin, and enjoyed reading about both of their complicated, if a bit depressing, pasts. I do wish the explanations for Pansy's past were a bit less vague, and would have preferred the flashback scenes for Davin were slightly more substantial, but found them enlightening nonetheless. I also really loved the plotline involving Pansy and Davin's dogs, finding it adorable and hilarious.
Overall, I found this book to be incredibly entertaining, as well as both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Tansy was a compelling and sympathetic character I feel would appeal to many readers. While Lovering was a new-to-me author, I can definitely see myself reading more from her in the future, and would definitely recommend this novel to romance and women's fiction fans.
4/5
After losing her business and home to her scheming ex, Tansy Merriweather finds herself living out of a van on a beach in Dorset. While she has no intention of staying long, she knows she doesn't have the money to keep traveling, and is forced to look into employment. Unfortunately for her, the only job she seems to find is working as a location scout for a TV show. It's here she meets the prickly actor, Davin "Not Gavin" O'Riordan. Davin is a bit of a newcomer to the acting scene, but already has a reputation as being grouchy and difficult to work with. However, after some initial verbal sparring, the two find in each other something of a kindred spirit, and soon the two work to save a local cafe, as well as help each other overcome past sorrows.
While I was definitely expecting a much happier and lighter read, Christmas Secrets by the Sea was an engaging read with a delightful cast of unique characters. I loved the believable slow-burn relationship between Tansy and Davin, and enjoyed reading about both of their complicated, if a bit depressing, pasts. I do wish the explanations for Pansy's past were a bit less vague, and would have preferred the flashback scenes for Davin were slightly more substantial, but found them enlightening nonetheless. I also really loved the plotline involving Pansy and Davin's dogs, finding it adorable and hilarious.
Overall, I found this book to be incredibly entertaining, as well as both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Tansy was a compelling and sympathetic character I feel would appeal to many readers. While Lovering was a new-to-me author, I can definitely see myself reading more from her in the future, and would definitely recommend this novel to romance and women's fiction fans.
4/5
December 27, 2018
Christmas Secrets by the Sea has all the right ingredients for a fabulously festive read, a kind hearted heroine, down on her luck, an aloof TV star with a hidden heart of gold, two daft dogs, a rusty old camper van and a dilapidated, but cosy, seaside cottage, which, when all are stirred together, help to add a beautiful warmth to the story. However, the hidden secrets which plague both lead characters, most certainly tug away at your heartstrings.
Tansy Merriweather and her delightfully daft dog, Brian, really stole the show. Brian's antics and his predilection for sardines and seaweed and his amorous chasing of the beautifully named whippet, Seelie, made me laugh out loud. And yet, I also warmed to the rather delicious, TV star, Davin O'Riodan, who had his own long buried problems to work through.
This isn't your usual festive read, true, it has references to Christmas, but it really is one of those beautifully written stories which can be read at any time of year. The author has created two really memorable characters in both Tansy and Davin, and throughout the whole of the story you just can't help wanting the best for both of them. The other characters who flit into and out of the story, especially Karen, from the cafe and her son, Rory, help to balance out the story and give some wonderful moments of light and shade.
Christmas Secrets by the Sea is a really lovely story and perfect to read in the lull between Christmas and New Year. I'm sure you'll love all the characters, especially Brian, as much as I did.
December 31, 2018
I have read a few of Jane Lovering's books now and I always enjoy the way she uses one liners and non sequiturs to ground her characters and bring them into three dimensional life. This story, deals with Tansy and Davin, two people thrown together by circumstance on a film set on the stormy Dorset coast in winter.
We discover early on these two have pasts which have defined them in different ways and deeply affects their attitude and behaviour. Then there are their two lovely dogs, mutt Brian and the graceful Seelie, both of whom bring their unique personalities into the story.
Tansy has hit a large bump in the road, though her more obvious problems conceal a deeper, more traumatic one, so she was easy to empathise with. Davin wasn’t so transparent and his initial behaviour is so atrocious I wonder why she didn’t just kick him to the curb and move on. We don’t discover Tansy’s pain until almost the end, where the light-hearted humour makes way for an emotional revelation which I defy any reader not to be affected by. Davin keeps his innate sensitivity well hidden but once his past is laid out, it becomes easier to see where he is coming from.
The other characters are equally well written, like single-mum Karen at the café, he permanently hungry sensitive teenager, Rory and the prickly Larch all of whom convey that we shouldn’t take people at first impression. It wasn’t very festive, but I read it at Christmas so that helped, and a storm lashed Dorset coast is pretty characteristic for December.
We discover early on these two have pasts which have defined them in different ways and deeply affects their attitude and behaviour. Then there are their two lovely dogs, mutt Brian and the graceful Seelie, both of whom bring their unique personalities into the story.
Tansy has hit a large bump in the road, though her more obvious problems conceal a deeper, more traumatic one, so she was easy to empathise with. Davin wasn’t so transparent and his initial behaviour is so atrocious I wonder why she didn’t just kick him to the curb and move on. We don’t discover Tansy’s pain until almost the end, where the light-hearted humour makes way for an emotional revelation which I defy any reader not to be affected by. Davin keeps his innate sensitivity well hidden but once his past is laid out, it becomes easier to see where he is coming from.
The other characters are equally well written, like single-mum Karen at the café, he permanently hungry sensitive teenager, Rory and the prickly Larch all of whom convey that we shouldn’t take people at first impression. It wasn’t very festive, but I read it at Christmas so that helped, and a storm lashed Dorset coast is pretty characteristic for December.
March 1, 2019
You don’t get a lot of Christmassy seaside books as it isn’t generally the place to be in the northern hemisphere with icy gales and lashing rain. So the very title of this book is an invitation to find out more about what is probably going to be a ‘different sort’ of romcom.
And it is! The cupcakes are firmly, and thankfully, behind her – there are way too many cupcakes in chicklit at the moment! – so Tansy is rebuilding her life and recovering from financial and emotional betrayal by her ex. She stumbles into a job with a TV crew that’s filming locally, and this is what throws into the company of Davin.
Irishman Davin is as miserable as a wet Irish week to start with. He takes some warming up to, but we and Tansy persist and eventually discover a nicer but hurting human being within.
A nearby café is in danger of going under and together Tansy and Davin become invested in helping to save it. We expect this of Tansy as she’s proved herself to be a kind, genuine, caring person, but it’s still a bit of a surprise that the seemingly self-centred Davin becomes quite so involved.
There’s fascinating character development, plenty of action, twists in the plot and a happy ending in this feelgood romcom. At times the comedy is almost dark but there was a twinkle in the author’s eye as she wrote it, I imagine, and it all works out the best for everyone – two- and four-legged – in the end!#
And it is! The cupcakes are firmly, and thankfully, behind her – there are way too many cupcakes in chicklit at the moment! – so Tansy is rebuilding her life and recovering from financial and emotional betrayal by her ex. She stumbles into a job with a TV crew that’s filming locally, and this is what throws into the company of Davin.
Irishman Davin is as miserable as a wet Irish week to start with. He takes some warming up to, but we and Tansy persist and eventually discover a nicer but hurting human being within.
A nearby café is in danger of going under and together Tansy and Davin become invested in helping to save it. We expect this of Tansy as she’s proved herself to be a kind, genuine, caring person, but it’s still a bit of a surprise that the seemingly self-centred Davin becomes quite so involved.
There’s fascinating character development, plenty of action, twists in the plot and a happy ending in this feelgood romcom. At times the comedy is almost dark but there was a twinkle in the author’s eye as she wrote it, I imagine, and it all works out the best for everyone – two- and four-legged – in the end!#
December 31, 2020
At the moment I am trying to catch up on all those lovely books I've downloaded to my kindle only to find that they have somehow slipped through the net. So I am alternating my reading between the ones near the top of the pile and those languishing through no fault of their own at the bottom.
Jane Lovering's wonderful Christmas Secrets by the Sea is just one of the delightful finds I have come across since doing this. I love Jane's writing and as this is set in a part of Dorset I know and love very much, it's pretty obvious why I bought it in the first place.
And I am so glad I did. The story is beautifully told, with some wonderful characters - and as for the hero, Davin. Oh wow! Jane has a magical lightness of touch that paints a brilliant picture. I couldn't resist copying this wonderful description of him.
"He stood, tall and slender, shoulders filling out a black Barbour jacket nicely, long legs in jeans that looked ordinary but probably cost a couple of hundred pounds a leg, with his hair gently moving on his collar in the wind and his cheekbones slicing the night into hours. I mentally kicked myself. Davin was the sort of man who’d be followed by women if he went into the Gents toilet. They wouldn’t need a reason. He was the reason."
Thank you for a great read, Jane, and for a lovely trip to my favourite corner of Dorset. We're not able to go there at the moment (December 2020) and this was the next best thing.
Jane Lovering's wonderful Christmas Secrets by the Sea is just one of the delightful finds I have come across since doing this. I love Jane's writing and as this is set in a part of Dorset I know and love very much, it's pretty obvious why I bought it in the first place.
And I am so glad I did. The story is beautifully told, with some wonderful characters - and as for the hero, Davin. Oh wow! Jane has a magical lightness of touch that paints a brilliant picture. I couldn't resist copying this wonderful description of him.
"He stood, tall and slender, shoulders filling out a black Barbour jacket nicely, long legs in jeans that looked ordinary but probably cost a couple of hundred pounds a leg, with his hair gently moving on his collar in the wind and his cheekbones slicing the night into hours. I mentally kicked myself. Davin was the sort of man who’d be followed by women if he went into the Gents toilet. They wouldn’t need a reason. He was the reason."
Thank you for a great read, Jane, and for a lovely trip to my favourite corner of Dorset. We're not able to go there at the moment (December 2020) and this was the next best thing.
December 14, 2018
Although Christmas arrives at the end of the book, the majority of this novel is set in the run up to the festive season so it is not an out and out Christmas read. You could read it at any time without feeling that you are reading it 'out of season'. I particularly enjoyed how the two main characters of Tansy and Davin's characters are gradually revealed. With both of them, what you see is not necessarily what you get and they both discover some deep-seated issues which they hold from the past. Being given an insight into both of their state of minds really lets you get to know them both.
There is plenty of humour within the story, principally coming from the two little canine buddies of Brian and Seelie but also from some of the over the top characters who are part of the filming. I enjoyed the passing references to the fans who follow the film dramas such as Poldark and the author takes a rather playful dig at their fanatical ways. Being on the coast, the sea and the weather have a fairly major part to play in the plot and the setting on the Dorset beach is set up nicely for the rest of the series. The romance when it emerges is a muted affair compared to the friendships which develop as characters learn to face up to their pasts.
In short: An engrossing read which alternates between humorous and emotional moments.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
There is plenty of humour within the story, principally coming from the two little canine buddies of Brian and Seelie but also from some of the over the top characters who are part of the filming. I enjoyed the passing references to the fans who follow the film dramas such as Poldark and the author takes a rather playful dig at their fanatical ways. Being on the coast, the sea and the weather have a fairly major part to play in the plot and the setting on the Dorset beach is set up nicely for the rest of the series. The romance when it emerges is a muted affair compared to the friendships which develop as characters learn to face up to their pasts.
In short: An engrossing read which alternates between humorous and emotional moments.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.
December 18, 2018
If you’re looking for a Christmas romance, this may not be the one for you as Christmas is pretty much an after-thought especially for the heroine, Tansy, who has had a very rough year.
However, this book goes beyond fluff and shows two people who meet at the right point in their lives to help each other and perhaps fall in love.
While Davin is initially shown to be mean-spirited and superficial, it’s a facade to hide his deeper secrets, which he shares with Tansy as their relationship progresses. Likewise, Davin guesses that Tansy has a deeper secret than the one she initially shares, a secret that makes the novel rather poignant.
The supporting characters add a great deal to the novel, especially Mom Karen and her son Rory. Karen has some great one-liners. Even Larch, the supposed self-absorbed actress, is shown to be far more than a pretty face.
After a near-tragedy brings everyone together on Christmas, the novel is indeed heart-warming. There might not be a lot of Christmas, but Karen tinsels everything.
Choose this one if you’re looking for a little more depth and just a shade less cheery in your Christmas story.
And, please, could someone give the scruffy dog a bath?
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, this book goes beyond fluff and shows two people who meet at the right point in their lives to help each other and perhaps fall in love.
While Davin is initially shown to be mean-spirited and superficial, it’s a facade to hide his deeper secrets, which he shares with Tansy as their relationship progresses. Likewise, Davin guesses that Tansy has a deeper secret than the one she initially shares, a secret that makes the novel rather poignant.
The supporting characters add a great deal to the novel, especially Mom Karen and her son Rory. Karen has some great one-liners. Even Larch, the supposed self-absorbed actress, is shown to be far more than a pretty face.
After a near-tragedy brings everyone together on Christmas, the novel is indeed heart-warming. There might not be a lot of Christmas, but Karen tinsels everything.
Choose this one if you’re looking for a little more depth and just a shade less cheery in your Christmas story.
And, please, could someone give the scruffy dog a bath?
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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