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Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #1-3
Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems: Shattered Diamonds / Shining Pearls / Shimmering Emeralds
A missing wife...
...crushed dreams.
Life in picturesque Brunswick Bay Harbor, Maine, is never quite as it seems.
Shattered Diamonds: Josie's lifelong Olympic dreams are destroyed. Alex's wife is missing and the accusing looks tear him apart as he attempts to raise his daughter on his own. Can two lost souls save each other?
Shining Pearls: Single father Alex moved on from heartbreak in the only way he knew how. Josie trusted him. When secrets from the past resurface, will they find a way to heal, or has their path to happiness been crushed beyond repair?
Shimmering Emeralds: Levi's a little bit country. Meg's a whole lot of rock and roll. Can these two opposites meet in the middle or will their past mistakes rob them of their second chance at romance?
When tragedies bring the residents of coastal Brunswick Bay Harbor together in ways they never could have imagined, will these intriguing characters find their happily-ever-afters, or will their secrets destroy them? Meet them now and find out.
...crushed dreams.
Life in picturesque Brunswick Bay Harbor, Maine, is never quite as it seems.
Shattered Diamonds: Josie's lifelong Olympic dreams are destroyed. Alex's wife is missing and the accusing looks tear him apart as he attempts to raise his daughter on his own. Can two lost souls save each other?
Shining Pearls: Single father Alex moved on from heartbreak in the only way he knew how. Josie trusted him. When secrets from the past resurface, will they find a way to heal, or has their path to happiness been crushed beyond repair?
Shimmering Emeralds: Levi's a little bit country. Meg's a whole lot of rock and roll. Can these two opposites meet in the middle or will their past mistakes rob them of their second chance at romance?
When tragedies bring the residents of coastal Brunswick Bay Harbor together in ways they never could have imagined, will these intriguing characters find their happily-ever-afters, or will their secrets destroy them? Meet them now and find out.
602 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2020
320 people are currently reading
920 people want to read
About the author
Ann Omasta
168 books1,136 followersAnn Omasta is a USA Today bestselling author.
Subscribe to her YouTube channel for FREE audiobooks! https://www.youtube.com/@annomastaauthor
Here is a Top 10 list from Ann about her likes, dislikes, and oddities:
1. I despise whipped cream. There, I admitted it in writing. Let the ridiculing begin.
2. Even though I have lived as far south as Key Largo, Florida and as far north as Maine, I landed in the middle.
3. If I don't make a conscious effort not to, I will drink nothing but tea morning, noon and night. Hot tea, sweet tea, green tea––I love it all.
4. There doesn't seem to be much in life that is better than coming home to a couple of big dogs who are overjoyed to see me. My other family members usually show significantly less enthusiasm about my return.
5. Singing in my bestest, loudest voice does not make my family put on their happy faces. This includes the big, loving dogs referenced above.
6. Yes, I am aware that bestest is not a word.
7. Dorothy was right. There's no place like home.
8. All of the numerous bottles in my shower must be lined up with their labels facing out. It makes me feel a little like Julia Roberts' mean husband from the movie 'Sleeping with the Enemy,' but I can't seem to control this particular quirk.
9. I love, love, love finding a great bargain.
10. Did I mention that I hate whipped cream? It makes my stomach churn to look at it, touch it, smell it, or even think about it. Great––now I'm thinking about it. Ick!
** Ann would LOVE to send you a free novella ~ Aloha, Baby! Visit annomasta.com to let her know where to send it.
Subscribe to her YouTube channel for FREE audiobooks! https://www.youtube.com/@annomastaauthor
Here is a Top 10 list from Ann about her likes, dislikes, and oddities:
1. I despise whipped cream. There, I admitted it in writing. Let the ridiculing begin.
2. Even though I have lived as far south as Key Largo, Florida and as far north as Maine, I landed in the middle.
3. If I don't make a conscious effort not to, I will drink nothing but tea morning, noon and night. Hot tea, sweet tea, green tea––I love it all.
4. There doesn't seem to be much in life that is better than coming home to a couple of big dogs who are overjoyed to see me. My other family members usually show significantly less enthusiasm about my return.
5. Singing in my bestest, loudest voice does not make my family put on their happy faces. This includes the big, loving dogs referenced above.
6. Yes, I am aware that bestest is not a word.
7. Dorothy was right. There's no place like home.
8. All of the numerous bottles in my shower must be lined up with their labels facing out. It makes me feel a little like Julia Roberts' mean husband from the movie 'Sleeping with the Enemy,' but I can't seem to control this particular quirk.
9. I love, love, love finding a great bargain.
10. Did I mention that I hate whipped cream? It makes my stomach churn to look at it, touch it, smell it, or even think about it. Great––now I'm thinking about it. Ick!
** Ann would LOVE to send you a free novella ~ Aloha, Baby! Visit annomasta.com to let her know where to send it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 19, 2020
Shattered Diamonds - (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #1)
I was drawn in from the beginning and connected with Josie and Alex, they are both a bit lost and Alex has the whole Bay is looking at him as a monster. When Alex and Josie are pushed together by her Aunt Mimi who happens to be one of the only people who believe Alex is innocent they have to over come their own fears as well as learn to be around each other. This is a highly addictive read that has you turning the page to see where things go for Josie and Alex as well as wonder what happened to his wife Claire and then when you get to the end .... Oh My God!!!!!
Shining Pearls (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #2)
I couldn't wait to get stuck into this book after how the last one ended, there is so much emotion going on for everyone that you don't know who to feel the worst for and it doesn't help wit all the complications that come up. We learn how Claire disappeared and get to know her more as well as see the fall out for Alex and Josie and it is not going to be an easy ride for anyone and I just don't know where things will go from here but I can not wait to find out in the next book!!!
Shimmering Emeralds (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #3)
No one messes with Meg but we never really knew why she was so darn prickly however we start to learn what happened years ago with Levi after a horrific bus crash involving Kevin Dursley. We get to see another side of Meg and can kind of see why she did what she did but also found it harsh so I felt quite torn. Levi on the other hand you can't help but like the guy, he is a good guy who is back in town and trying to reconnect with people from his childhood town. There are plenty of emotions for you to go through with this book just like the others and you can't help but gun for Meg to finally have something to smile and be happy about as she deserves it and well so does Levi!
I was drawn in from the beginning and connected with Josie and Alex, they are both a bit lost and Alex has the whole Bay is looking at him as a monster. When Alex and Josie are pushed together by her Aunt Mimi who happens to be one of the only people who believe Alex is innocent they have to over come their own fears as well as learn to be around each other. This is a highly addictive read that has you turning the page to see where things go for Josie and Alex as well as wonder what happened to his wife Claire and then when you get to the end .... Oh My God!!!!!
Shining Pearls (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #2)
I couldn't wait to get stuck into this book after how the last one ended, there is so much emotion going on for everyone that you don't know who to feel the worst for and it doesn't help wit all the complications that come up. We learn how Claire disappeared and get to know her more as well as see the fall out for Alex and Josie and it is not going to be an easy ride for anyone and I just don't know where things will go from here but I can not wait to find out in the next book!!!
Shimmering Emeralds (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #3)
No one messes with Meg but we never really knew why she was so darn prickly however we start to learn what happened years ago with Levi after a horrific bus crash involving Kevin Dursley. We get to see another side of Meg and can kind of see why she did what she did but also found it harsh so I felt quite torn. Levi on the other hand you can't help but like the guy, he is a good guy who is back in town and trying to reconnect with people from his childhood town. There are plenty of emotions for you to go through with this book just like the others and you can't help but gun for Meg to finally have something to smile and be happy about as she deserves it and well so does Levi!
January 2, 2023
The Heart of It All
The heart is definitely involved when it comes to this collection. There's heartache, heartbreak, heart melt, and heart stopping throughout. The quaint town in Maine has a lot going on with plenty of secrets and surprises. Unrequited, taboo, everlasting, and secret are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the kinds of love that was in these pages.
I like the diversity of the stories including one where I was initially conflicted as to who I was rooting for. I wasn't always pleased with the way certain characters handled things, while I was pleased as punch with others.
UPDATE IN PROGRESS TO INCLUDE INDIVIDUAL REVIEWS...
Here are my individual reviews for each book. Happy reading! 📚💋
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
I
The heart is definitely involved when it comes to this collection. There's heartache, heartbreak, heart melt, and heart stopping throughout. The quaint town in Maine has a lot going on with plenty of secrets and surprises. Unrequited, taboo, everlasting, and secret are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the kinds of love that was in these pages.
I like the diversity of the stories including one where I was initially conflicted as to who I was rooting for. I wasn't always pleased with the way certain characters handled things, while I was pleased as punch with others.
UPDATE IN PROGRESS TO INCLUDE INDIVIDUAL REVIEWS...
Here are my individual reviews for each book. Happy reading! 📚💋
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
🌟🌟🌟🌟 -
I
February 10, 2020
A winning triad!
Shattered Diamonds:
Ms. Omasta has done it again with a terrific start to this series. As always her characters are more than compelling in their sensitivity towards the welfare of others. Josie and Alex are no exception with their developing feelings towards each other, while still putting Hannah ahead of themselves. Of course there’s a twist in their romance, and we are left wondering what will become of this newly formed trio.
Shining Pearls:
A super drama with two women, one man, and one child being the main characters in this terrific story. Claire was kidnapped and finally escaped after a year of captivity only to find her husband with another woman. She soon learned that she was the “nanny”. The fallout is considerable and affecting more than just their immediate family. Two pregnancies, work to resolve the awkward situation, and the ending will have you ordering the next book. As always a great story that is brought alive by Ms. Omasta’s talented writing.
Shimmering Emeralds:
This story is close to impossible to stop reading to do anything else, as you won’t be able to put it down until you've finished it. You'll love Meg and Levi as they are reunited after he had left to pursue a musical career. However, one of the first things they face is being involved in a school bus accident in which her daughter Harper suffered a traumatic brain injury. As always you’ll feel like you’re right there with them as Ms. Omasta adroitly draws you into her web (story).
Great characters and stories in this beautifully written book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Shattered Diamonds:
Ms. Omasta has done it again with a terrific start to this series. As always her characters are more than compelling in their sensitivity towards the welfare of others. Josie and Alex are no exception with their developing feelings towards each other, while still putting Hannah ahead of themselves. Of course there’s a twist in their romance, and we are left wondering what will become of this newly formed trio.
Shining Pearls:
A super drama with two women, one man, and one child being the main characters in this terrific story. Claire was kidnapped and finally escaped after a year of captivity only to find her husband with another woman. She soon learned that she was the “nanny”. The fallout is considerable and affecting more than just their immediate family. Two pregnancies, work to resolve the awkward situation, and the ending will have you ordering the next book. As always a great story that is brought alive by Ms. Omasta’s talented writing.
Shimmering Emeralds:
This story is close to impossible to stop reading to do anything else, as you won’t be able to put it down until you've finished it. You'll love Meg and Levi as they are reunited after he had left to pursue a musical career. However, one of the first things they face is being involved in a school bus accident in which her daughter Harper suffered a traumatic brain injury. As always you’ll feel like you’re right there with them as Ms. Omasta adroitly draws you into her web (story).
Great characters and stories in this beautifully written book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 10, 2020
Shattered Diamonds:
Alex's wife has been missing for a year and almost everyone thinks he had something to do with it. Josie was a future Olympic Gold Medalist until an injury ends her dream. Alex is in need of a nanny and Josie needs a job. I loved the way Alex and Josie's relationship grew and how great she was for his daughter.
Shining Pearls:
Just when Alex, Josie and Hannah's lives are on track his wife Clare is back. She had been kidnapped and was able to escape her captors but when she gets home she finds her husband with another woman. A man torn between the two women he loves and a little girl torn between her mom and her nanny. There is so much going on with these characters and this series just gets better and better.
Shimmering Emeralds:
Shimmering Emerald is a well written, heartbreakingly beautiful story that left me breathless. I absolutely loved Meg and Levi's story and I was captivated by every twist and turn in their story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this box set.
Alex's wife has been missing for a year and almost everyone thinks he had something to do with it. Josie was a future Olympic Gold Medalist until an injury ends her dream. Alex is in need of a nanny and Josie needs a job. I loved the way Alex and Josie's relationship grew and how great she was for his daughter.
Shining Pearls:
Just when Alex, Josie and Hannah's lives are on track his wife Clare is back. She had been kidnapped and was able to escape her captors but when she gets home she finds her husband with another woman. A man torn between the two women he loves and a little girl torn between her mom and her nanny. There is so much going on with these characters and this series just gets better and better.
Shimmering Emeralds:
Shimmering Emerald is a well written, heartbreakingly beautiful story that left me breathless. I absolutely loved Meg and Levi's story and I was captivated by every twist and turn in their story.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this box set.
February 8, 2020
This is an entertaining three book collection set in Brunswick Bay Harbor,Maine. The author brings three couples , gives them a hot chemistry and each with their own story to tell. She weaves three stories filled with love and romance and moves them fluidly with her descriptive writing and detailed scenes. I enjoyed and would recommend this set.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this set. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this set. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
February 5, 2020
This is an anthology of three interconnected stories about people in the small town of Brunswick Bay, Maine. The first book is called Shattered Diamonds where Alex's wife Claire went missing several months ago, leaving him and his daughter floundering. He is an author who the entire town, especially Claire's sister Meg believes killed his cherished wife. She was a banker, here one day and disappeared between taking daughter to school and going to work...Because all the town thought he was cause of disappearance, he became a pariah, but needed help for his daughter during the summer, so hires Josie, diner owner Mimi's niece as she is horrendous waitress. She needs a career since injury stopped her Olympic swimming dreams...but no spoilers on story...Second book is Shining Pearls which is a continuation of the story of Alex, Claire and Josie, but don't want to spoil the result, but Alex is becoming a father again....Third story is Shimmering Emeralds which continues with the people of the small town, but has switched to Claire's sister Meg, whose daughter was injured on a school trip, and we meet the love of her life, Levi, who she told to leave town to follow his dreams years before, but you will need to read the books to see what happens...I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2020
First three books in this series taking place in a small coastal city in Maine. A small and close knit community with plenty of drama, romance, and family ties. By having this set, you can seamlessly slip from adventure to adventure, yet know there's more when you finish. The series shows life with it's frailties, family ties and values, and friendships...along with romance, difficult situations, and surprising solutions. Hard to put down. Harder still to imagine it will all work out!
February 10, 2020
A missing wife...
...crushed dreams.
Life in picturesque Brunswick Bay Harbor, Maine, is never quite as it seems.
Shattered Diamonds: Josie's lifelong Olympic dreams are destroyed. Alex's wife is missing and the accusing looks tear him apart as he attempts to raise his daughter on his own. Can two lost souls save each other?
Shining Pearls: Single father Alex moved on from heartbreak in the only way he knew how. Josie trusted him. When secrets from the past resurface, will they find a way to heal, or has their path to happiness been crushed beyond repair?
Shimmering Emeralds: Levi's a little bit country. Meg's a whole lot of rock and roll. Can these two opposites meet in the middle or will their past mistakes rob them of their second chance at romance?
When tragedies bring the residents of coastal Brunswick Bay Harbor together in ways they never could have imagined, will these intriguing characters find their happily-ever-afters, or will their secrets destroy them? Meet them now and find out.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great stories in each one; wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more from the author.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
...crushed dreams.
Life in picturesque Brunswick Bay Harbor, Maine, is never quite as it seems.
Shattered Diamonds: Josie's lifelong Olympic dreams are destroyed. Alex's wife is missing and the accusing looks tear him apart as he attempts to raise his daughter on his own. Can two lost souls save each other?
Shining Pearls: Single father Alex moved on from heartbreak in the only way he knew how. Josie trusted him. When secrets from the past resurface, will they find a way to heal, or has their path to happiness been crushed beyond repair?
Shimmering Emeralds: Levi's a little bit country. Meg's a whole lot of rock and roll. Can these two opposites meet in the middle or will their past mistakes rob them of their second chance at romance?
When tragedies bring the residents of coastal Brunswick Bay Harbor together in ways they never could have imagined, will these intriguing characters find their happily-ever-afters, or will their secrets destroy them? Meet them now and find out.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great stories in each one; wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more from the author.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 25, 2020
The Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems: Books 1-3 was a great read by Ann Omasta. This box set consisted of; Shattered Diamonds, Shining Pearls, and Shimmering Emeralds. These books follow different couples in Brunswick Bay Harbor, Maine. Shattered Diamonds followed Josie figuring out where her life is going after her Olympic dreams were destroyed. She meets Alex who is trying to fix his life up after the disppearance of his wife. Shining Pearls follows Alex as he moves on with Josie but secrets that surface could break them apart. Shimmering Emeralds follows Levi and Meg, who are complete opposites that are hoping for a second chance at romance. I loved reading these books and cant wait to read more by Ann Omasta.
February 10, 2020
This collection contains the first three stories in the Brunswick Bay Harbor mystery series, three stories about an extended family dealing with love, and loss and unexpected new lives. I loved each of these stories individually and the opportunity to own them as a collection at a single price just makes them all the more appealing.
In Shattered Diamonds, a grieving author hires a local woman to care for his daughter while he tries to write and deal with the loss of his missing wife Claire.
In Shining Pearls, unexpected pregnancies will completely change the lives of more than just the father and daughter.
In Shimmering Emeralds, a school bus accident sparks a medical crisis and a reunion of old lovers for Claire's sister.
All three stories share a common family group and a common thread of tragedy and hope. I loved Omasta' sense of drama, of mystery and of romance. This is a series of stories that are well worth a look if you enjoy small town romances.
In Shattered Diamonds, a grieving author hires a local woman to care for his daughter while he tries to write and deal with the loss of his missing wife Claire.
In Shining Pearls, unexpected pregnancies will completely change the lives of more than just the father and daughter.
In Shimmering Emeralds, a school bus accident sparks a medical crisis and a reunion of old lovers for Claire's sister.
All three stories share a common family group and a common thread of tragedy and hope. I loved Omasta' sense of drama, of mystery and of romance. This is a series of stories that are well worth a look if you enjoy small town romances.
February 15, 2020
I've read a lot of books written by Ann Omasta; she has done an excellent job at writing a good set of books; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story lines caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this box set via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story lines caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this box set via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
Ann Omasta has brought three couples together and woven the story together so well you can see it. The characters have a lot of chemistry and with a lot of history that fuels the book. You will keep flipping the page to see what happens next for each couple. Who knew such a small town could have so much drama.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2020
These books really take you on an emotional roller coaster ride, there are so many twists and turns and such a lot of heartache but also lots of love and friendship. I read each book as they became available but they are better read in the boxset so you don't actually have to stop reading and wait for the next one. Book one finishes on a real cliffhanger and it is hard to see how things will work out. However, having the next book available immediately helps! You cannot help but love all the various characters and especially the children. A great boxset.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2020
This series has both romance and action in a small-town setting. I have enjoyed each volume as it came out. Here are my thoughts for each of the three stories in the set:
Shattered Diamonds
💕Romance built on sand; will the tide sweep it into oblivion?🌊
August 1, 2019
👍4.5🌟stars
😲The ending really ratcheted up my overall impression of this story. I can't wait to read the follow-on! The whole issue of hero Alex's missing wife Claire just lays low and simmers in the background throughout the story. I did find it odd that, with so many of the local people concerned about her disappearance, there's little mention of any police investigation.
👧Alex's daughter Hannah is a favorite character for me. Her joy and sorrow gave this romance lots of heart. I liked the way young Hannah moved Alex and Josie closer. The absent Claire left me a bit ambivalent about whether Alex and Josie should have been trying harder to resist any mutual attraction, but it was a difficult, frustrating, nebulous situation so I can understand their actions. There's some steam, but the majority of the story focused on building emotional connections.
😊 I enjoyed it and would recommend it despite the cliffhanger ending. The continuation is set for release in a few weeks, so I won't have to wait for months to learn how their dilemma resolved itself.
Shining Pearls
🌅 Drama, drama, drama: Alex, what have you done?😕
August 22, 2019
4🌟stars
💕❤This love triangle romance set in small-town coastal Pacific Northwest with a smitten other man and an innocent young girl caught in the fallout is an enjoyable, fairly fast-paced continuation of the characters and situation from Shattered Diamonds. The story is told from the alternate POVs of swimming coach Josie and "returned from the dead" Claire, who has trouble reconciling the fact that her husband's and her young daughter's lives moved on in her absence in the year she abruptly disappeared without a trace and no warning. Their close-knit family and friends are all dealing, each in his or her own way, with the repercussions of Claire's absence and sudden return. Josie has some tough truths to face, not the least of which is how closely should she rely on Dean, her best friend who obviously carries a torch for her. I felt that the man in the middle, Claire's husband Alex, became a bit less likable in this part of the series because of the way he deals with Josie. Meanwhile, Josie grows up and faces some hard truths, Claire makes a laudable effort to keep their family going and ensure their daughter's continued cheery outlook, and the whole crew anticipate happy changes.
This is an easy read, with a bit of heat, and a HFN (hurrah!) until the last page, which sets up a whole new drama for the same characters. I don't know how I feel about that. Yes, it makes me wonder about the next book but I rather like stories to have a satisfying end. Should I just ignore the teaser to get my happy ending?😕
Shimmering Emeralds
⚠ Excitement and dread as a school outing changes lives😲
👍🚌😲🏥
4-4.5🌟stars
This latest in Omasta's series about the residents of a small New England town started with a kick and, though the pace slowed after some initial action, it had no trouble keeping my interest through the HEA ending. The heroine's long-term secret was obvious to me but the lightbulb moment for Levi, her former love, took a good while to hit and needed an awkwardly timed revelation as he seemed clueless! My favorite character-- Levi, for sure, as he puts up with a lot, including a bunch of the heroine's family, friends and even the local police, who heap blame on him. He weathers all the barbs and accusations like a real trooper. This is a quick, easy to read mild heat romance with plenty of drama. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series.😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of each book in the set; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Shattered Diamonds
💕Romance built on sand; will the tide sweep it into oblivion?🌊
August 1, 2019
👍4.5🌟stars
😲The ending really ratcheted up my overall impression of this story. I can't wait to read the follow-on! The whole issue of hero Alex's missing wife Claire just lays low and simmers in the background throughout the story. I did find it odd that, with so many of the local people concerned about her disappearance, there's little mention of any police investigation.
👧Alex's daughter Hannah is a favorite character for me. Her joy and sorrow gave this romance lots of heart. I liked the way young Hannah moved Alex and Josie closer. The absent Claire left me a bit ambivalent about whether Alex and Josie should have been trying harder to resist any mutual attraction, but it was a difficult, frustrating, nebulous situation so I can understand their actions. There's some steam, but the majority of the story focused on building emotional connections.
😊 I enjoyed it and would recommend it despite the cliffhanger ending. The continuation is set for release in a few weeks, so I won't have to wait for months to learn how their dilemma resolved itself.
Shining Pearls
🌅 Drama, drama, drama: Alex, what have you done?😕
August 22, 2019
4🌟stars
💕❤This love triangle romance set in small-town coastal Pacific Northwest with a smitten other man and an innocent young girl caught in the fallout is an enjoyable, fairly fast-paced continuation of the characters and situation from Shattered Diamonds. The story is told from the alternate POVs of swimming coach Josie and "returned from the dead" Claire, who has trouble reconciling the fact that her husband's and her young daughter's lives moved on in her absence in the year she abruptly disappeared without a trace and no warning. Their close-knit family and friends are all dealing, each in his or her own way, with the repercussions of Claire's absence and sudden return. Josie has some tough truths to face, not the least of which is how closely should she rely on Dean, her best friend who obviously carries a torch for her. I felt that the man in the middle, Claire's husband Alex, became a bit less likable in this part of the series because of the way he deals with Josie. Meanwhile, Josie grows up and faces some hard truths, Claire makes a laudable effort to keep their family going and ensure their daughter's continued cheery outlook, and the whole crew anticipate happy changes.
This is an easy read, with a bit of heat, and a HFN (hurrah!) until the last page, which sets up a whole new drama for the same characters. I don't know how I feel about that. Yes, it makes me wonder about the next book but I rather like stories to have a satisfying end. Should I just ignore the teaser to get my happy ending?😕
Shimmering Emeralds
⚠ Excitement and dread as a school outing changes lives😲
👍🚌😲🏥
4-4.5🌟stars
This latest in Omasta's series about the residents of a small New England town started with a kick and, though the pace slowed after some initial action, it had no trouble keeping my interest through the HEA ending. The heroine's long-term secret was obvious to me but the lightbulb moment for Levi, her former love, took a good while to hit and needed an awkwardly timed revelation as he seemed clueless! My favorite character-- Levi, for sure, as he puts up with a lot, including a bunch of the heroine's family, friends and even the local police, who heap blame on him. He weathers all the barbs and accusations like a real trooper. This is a quick, easy to read mild heat romance with plenty of drama. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next in the series.😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of each book in the set; this is my voluntary and honest review.
July 14, 2020
Book one, Shattered Diamonds, begins with the wife of Brunswick Bay's resident author missing and presumed dead and her husband is the prime/only suspect. Alex goes into the town diner for his usual lunch and about his only interaction with people. Most folks don't want to be anywhere near him because they are convinced that he killed his wife.
Josie has come back to Brunswick Bay to lick her wounds and figure out what is next for her now that her dreams of being an Olympic swimmer are trashed due to her shoulder injury. She is trying to be a waitress at her aunt's diner, but Josie bungles more orders then she gets right. Josie's aunt decides that Josie would make a better babysitter than a waitress and talks Alex into hiring her to take care of his daughter, Hannah.
Josie soon learns that she really is good with children and she, Alex and Hannah start to become a little family until their world gets rocked big time.
(Spoilers ahead)
Which brings us to book two, Shining Pearls, which is the story of Josie and Dean and Alex and Claire. With the return of Alex's wife, Josie's dream of a family is shattered and now she has to not only recover from that, but she also has to find another job. Her best friend, Dean and Aunt Mimi are there to help her. Josie soon realizes that she is pregnant and she gets a job teaching swimming lessons. The one bright spot is that she gets to keep teaching Hannah.
Dean has always love Josie and he is more than willing to love and take care of her and the baby growing inside her. He just needs to get Josie to see that she loves him just as much. Will they be able to make a future together.
Alex and Claire have been in love since high school; they were the golden couple. Unfortunately, while Claire was gone and presumed dead for a year, Alex fell for Josie, but now that his true love, Claire is back; Alex cuts Josie out of his life. Claire comes home to find her husband in an awkward position with Josie and if she wants to keep her marriage she will have to figure out a way to forgive him. Claire also realizes that Hannah is attached to Josie and so she agrees to letting Hannah keep taking swimming lessons. Soon Claire turns up pregnant also, now things are going to get really interesting and some what complicated with more surprises.
(Spoiler Alert)
Book three, Shimmering Emeralds, is about Claire's sister, Meg and her secret love Levi plus it continues the stories of the two couples in books one and two. Meg, her daughter and her niece are headed for a school field trip when the school bus they are riding in is involved in an accident and Meg discovers that her secret love is the driver. By the time Meg and Levi rescue the last child, Meg discovers that her niece is missing and then she soon discovers that there is something seriously wrong with her daughter. Levi finds Hannah and then hears Meg's scream and runs to help her with Harper only there isn't much that he can do. He does however show up at the hospital and he keeps a vigilant watch over Meg and her daughter and not just because he feels guilty over the accident. More life shattering changes happening while everyone is at the hospital and you will definitely be hanging on until the very last word, plus you will most likely be looking for book 4 to continue learning the secrets of Brunswick Bay Harbor.
Josie has come back to Brunswick Bay to lick her wounds and figure out what is next for her now that her dreams of being an Olympic swimmer are trashed due to her shoulder injury. She is trying to be a waitress at her aunt's diner, but Josie bungles more orders then she gets right. Josie's aunt decides that Josie would make a better babysitter than a waitress and talks Alex into hiring her to take care of his daughter, Hannah.
Josie soon learns that she really is good with children and she, Alex and Hannah start to become a little family until their world gets rocked big time.
(Spoilers ahead)
Which brings us to book two, Shining Pearls, which is the story of Josie and Dean and Alex and Claire. With the return of Alex's wife, Josie's dream of a family is shattered and now she has to not only recover from that, but she also has to find another job. Her best friend, Dean and Aunt Mimi are there to help her. Josie soon realizes that she is pregnant and she gets a job teaching swimming lessons. The one bright spot is that she gets to keep teaching Hannah.
Dean has always love Josie and he is more than willing to love and take care of her and the baby growing inside her. He just needs to get Josie to see that she loves him just as much. Will they be able to make a future together.
Alex and Claire have been in love since high school; they were the golden couple. Unfortunately, while Claire was gone and presumed dead for a year, Alex fell for Josie, but now that his true love, Claire is back; Alex cuts Josie out of his life. Claire comes home to find her husband in an awkward position with Josie and if she wants to keep her marriage she will have to figure out a way to forgive him. Claire also realizes that Hannah is attached to Josie and so she agrees to letting Hannah keep taking swimming lessons. Soon Claire turns up pregnant also, now things are going to get really interesting and some what complicated with more surprises.
(Spoiler Alert)
Book three, Shimmering Emeralds, is about Claire's sister, Meg and her secret love Levi plus it continues the stories of the two couples in books one and two. Meg, her daughter and her niece are headed for a school field trip when the school bus they are riding in is involved in an accident and Meg discovers that her secret love is the driver. By the time Meg and Levi rescue the last child, Meg discovers that her niece is missing and then she soon discovers that there is something seriously wrong with her daughter. Levi finds Hannah and then hears Meg's scream and runs to help her with Harper only there isn't much that he can do. He does however show up at the hospital and he keeps a vigilant watch over Meg and her daughter and not just because he feels guilty over the accident. More life shattering changes happening while everyone is at the hospital and you will definitely be hanging on until the very last word, plus you will most likely be looking for book 4 to continue learning the secrets of Brunswick Bay Harbor.
July 19, 2020
I found this book for free on Amazon via Freebooksy; this is my honest review.
General comments for all three books:
-This is a serials not a series. There is a major cliffhanger at the end even though each couple gets their own HFN.
-Maybe because it's a serials, many details are constantly repeated from one chapter to the other.
-For the exception of Mimi and Josie, and perhaps Molly, ALL these women are malicious and manipulative to no end. Nothing can please them and they take 100% advantage of their man because he will absolutely do everything for her. No matter what. They are also impolite and aggressive.
-There are a lot of emotions mixed-up here: anger, love, joy, anxiety, sadness, etc.
#1 Shattered Diamonds: ***
-I loved how Alex & Josie got to know each other, each being wary of what was going on. I'm not sure if Alex loved Josie and if Josie wasn't just infatuated with Alex but they had a beautiful bond.
-A dozen times it was repeated that Alex couldn't deny Hannah anything. This is really bad parenting and it's not because one parent is no longer there that you need to indulge your child. They need boundaries, more so with a single parent.
#2 Shining Pearls: ***
-I really, really hated what happened with Josie and Alex. Apart from her "perfect" family, we don't know much about Claire and we saw Josie & Alex for many months together.
-I felt really bad for Dean; he's second fiddle and I'm not sure about Josie's love for him. I just didn't see it. It's not because people say you look good together that you should be together.
-I thought Alex was a strong man but he's nothing when with Claire where he becomes a pushover.
-The winner in all this is still Dean - he got the girl.
-"Sink or Swim": Those were the days and our parents have made many people afraid of the water instead of the loving it.
#3 Shimmering Emeralds: ***
-I'm not sure what's wrong with the guys in this place but Levi is as bad as Alex. He's in love with Meg and will do anything for her, even take a good beating or just being a gopher for everyone.
-So I saw how Levi was in love with Meg but didn't even see chemistry, lust or love from Meg towards Levi.
-All Meg knows what to do is beat someone's chest when she's angry. She did it to Alex, then with Levi. She has a lot of venom in her heart.
-I was getting really upset when Meg and Dani or Meg and her mother were having inappropriate conversations in Harper's room. Get out! There was too much stimulation, even the music and the flowers were excessive.
-True: "Evidence shows that coma patients respond very well to hearing their loved ones’ voices" And to strangers' too. I had 2 senses active; When I woke up and my nurse came into my room, I recognized her perfume and her voice.
-False truth: "We were blood relatives, so they had to have my back." Blood is not thicker than water in many cases.
General comments for all three books:
-This is a serials not a series. There is a major cliffhanger at the end even though each couple gets their own HFN.
-Maybe because it's a serials, many details are constantly repeated from one chapter to the other.
-For the exception of Mimi and Josie, and perhaps Molly, ALL these women are malicious and manipulative to no end. Nothing can please them and they take 100% advantage of their man because he will absolutely do everything for her. No matter what. They are also impolite and aggressive.
-There are a lot of emotions mixed-up here: anger, love, joy, anxiety, sadness, etc.
#1 Shattered Diamonds: ***
-I loved how Alex & Josie got to know each other, each being wary of what was going on. I'm not sure if Alex loved Josie and if Josie wasn't just infatuated with Alex but they had a beautiful bond.
-A dozen times it was repeated that Alex couldn't deny Hannah anything. This is really bad parenting and it's not because one parent is no longer there that you need to indulge your child. They need boundaries, more so with a single parent.
#2 Shining Pearls: ***
-I really, really hated what happened with Josie and Alex. Apart from her "perfect" family, we don't know much about Claire and we saw Josie & Alex for many months together.
-I felt really bad for Dean; he's second fiddle and I'm not sure about Josie's love for him. I just didn't see it. It's not because people say you look good together that you should be together.
-I thought Alex was a strong man but he's nothing when with Claire where he becomes a pushover.
-The winner in all this is still Dean - he got the girl.
-"Sink or Swim": Those were the days and our parents have made many people afraid of the water instead of the loving it.
#3 Shimmering Emeralds: ***
-I'm not sure what's wrong with the guys in this place but Levi is as bad as Alex. He's in love with Meg and will do anything for her, even take a good beating or just being a gopher for everyone.
-So I saw how Levi was in love with Meg but didn't even see chemistry, lust or love from Meg towards Levi.
-All Meg knows what to do is beat someone's chest when she's angry. She did it to Alex, then with Levi. She has a lot of venom in her heart.
-I was getting really upset when Meg and Dani or Meg and her mother were having inappropriate conversations in Harper's room. Get out! There was too much stimulation, even the music and the flowers were excessive.
-True: "Evidence shows that coma patients respond very well to hearing their loved ones’ voices" And to strangers' too. I had 2 senses active; When I woke up and my nurse came into my room, I recognized her perfume and her voice.
-False truth: "We were blood relatives, so they had to have my back." Blood is not thicker than water in many cases.
January 11, 2020
Shattered Diamonds
This is an amazingly well-written story. My heart broke for Alex every time one of the townspeople snubbed him. Josie’s unattainable dreams tugged at my emotions. And Hannah is such a vivacious little sprite; she’s utterly charming and completely infectious. The other reviewers aren’t kidding when they say that’s one heck of a cliff-hanger ending. Normally I avoid any book that has even a whiff of love-triangle around it, but this story now has me torn in shreds, dying to know how it’s all going to turn out.
Shining Pearls
This book left me a bit of an emotional mess. After spending the previous book investing in Josie and Alex as a couple, it hurt my heart to see the devastation and venom that Josie had to deal with this time around. It was all of that, mostly unjustified, bitterness and bile that had me giving this book the side-eye and I spent a large portion of this book going “b*tch, please.” Alex is just clueless about the emotional stuff. He spends a lot of time hurting the women in his life when I don’t think that’s what he meant to do. I liked the author’s solution in the end, it was just a roller-coaster getting there. Now I can’t wait to see what this latest twist brings into their lives.
Shimmering Emeralds
I had a tough time with this book. I adored the ending but getting there felt a bit like an uphill battle at times. The continuity issues in this book drove me mental. Firstly, ICU doesn’t operate like just another room in the hospital and it frustrated the living daylights out of me that this was the way it was portrayed here. Add to that, the multitude of patient confidentiality violations shown in this story and I was practically frothing at the mouth. I also had problems getting past all of Meg’s judgmental and hypocritical attitudes. I couldn’t understand why it was fine for her to behave like a raving harpy, but then she’d get mad at anyone else who did the same. Levi and Harper were just about perfect to me. Levi’s so sweet and stoic. He handles everyone’s venom and blame with an equanimity I can only admire. And Harper’s the same precious little imp I’d already come to love in the previous books, she just takes center stage in this one. Now that I’ve started to get to know Dani, I’m intrigued to see what the author has in store for her.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
This is an amazingly well-written story. My heart broke for Alex every time one of the townspeople snubbed him. Josie’s unattainable dreams tugged at my emotions. And Hannah is such a vivacious little sprite; she’s utterly charming and completely infectious. The other reviewers aren’t kidding when they say that’s one heck of a cliff-hanger ending. Normally I avoid any book that has even a whiff of love-triangle around it, but this story now has me torn in shreds, dying to know how it’s all going to turn out.
Shining Pearls
This book left me a bit of an emotional mess. After spending the previous book investing in Josie and Alex as a couple, it hurt my heart to see the devastation and venom that Josie had to deal with this time around. It was all of that, mostly unjustified, bitterness and bile that had me giving this book the side-eye and I spent a large portion of this book going “b*tch, please.” Alex is just clueless about the emotional stuff. He spends a lot of time hurting the women in his life when I don’t think that’s what he meant to do. I liked the author’s solution in the end, it was just a roller-coaster getting there. Now I can’t wait to see what this latest twist brings into their lives.
Shimmering Emeralds
I had a tough time with this book. I adored the ending but getting there felt a bit like an uphill battle at times. The continuity issues in this book drove me mental. Firstly, ICU doesn’t operate like just another room in the hospital and it frustrated the living daylights out of me that this was the way it was portrayed here. Add to that, the multitude of patient confidentiality violations shown in this story and I was practically frothing at the mouth. I also had problems getting past all of Meg’s judgmental and hypocritical attitudes. I couldn’t understand why it was fine for her to behave like a raving harpy, but then she’d get mad at anyone else who did the same. Levi and Harper were just about perfect to me. Levi’s so sweet and stoic. He handles everyone’s venom and blame with an equanimity I can only admire. And Harper’s the same precious little imp I’d already come to love in the previous books, she just takes center stage in this one. Now that I’ve started to get to know Dani, I’m intrigued to see what the author has in store for her.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
February 13, 2020
Shattered Diamonds caught my interest from the beginning and kept it through the end. Alex's plight pulled on my heartstrings; Josie is lost and trying to find her way. They're brought together out of concern for Alex's sweet daughter, Hannah. The story takes twists that pulled me along and left me wanting to find out how things will turn out for all of them. It is fraught with heartache, loss, but also hope for a brighter future . The story ends with a cliffhanger, but with buying the set, you don't have to wait to see how the story unfolds. Shattered Diamonds ended with a cliffhanger so I was anxious to read Shining Pearls to find out what would happen to Josie, Alex, Hannah, Claire, Dean... not going to give anything away but WOW! That was my reaction to the first book as well. Once I started reading I didn't want to put the book down. There were parts that left me wanting to be angry with Alex for his behavior, but given the incredibly difficult circumstances, it's hard to blame him. This story definitely pulled at the heartstrings. I was a little surprised that it completely ignored how the town had previously mistreated Alex and how Claire's return changed things (or didn't), but that wasn't the focus of the book and probably would have detracted from the meat of the story. Shining Pearls also ends with a cliffhanger, so again, nice to read as part of the set so you can go right into reading Shimmering Emeralds to find out what happened with Hannah. The story took twists I had not been expecting as Meg is faced with Harper's coma. While dealing with the tragedy, she is also dealing with her mixed emotions over the one who got away - Levi. She told him to follow his dreams and was heartbroken when he did. Now he's back and she's reluctant to believe he's back for good. There are plenty of ups and downs for this story as there are health risks for Claire and her new baby amidst the crisis with Harper. Add in an ornery mother and Levi has his work cut out for him. There is a secret that almost blows them apart for good. Looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series.
February 12, 2020
These are the first three books in the Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems series. This is a series of romantic suspense that does need to be read in the order of release.
SHATTERED DIAMONDS
Alex and Josie’s story was highly addictive and I was rooting for them from the beginning. She had lost her dreams of Olympic gold. He was being wrongly accused in the disappearance of his wife.
On the other hand, I was frustrated throughout the book in that I felt that there should be more about the disappearance. Since this was a major factor in how the town treated Alex, shouldn’t the reader know more than “Claire’s missing. The town blames Alex, but he didn’t do it.”
SHINING PEARLS
Yeah! More of an explanation of what happened to Claire. Boo! Josie is devastated once again. Yeah and Boo and OMG the twists and turns and ups and downs. Yes, this one was made me an emotional mess. So much happens and I can’t say much without giving away the surprises. READ IT!
SHIMMERING EMERALDS
Claire’s sister Meg was especially hard on Alex. Now we get to see another side of her as she gets to her HEA. First there is a horrible bus crash with the kids – yikes!!!! And a sighting of Kevin Dursley.
The emotions are strong and free-flying, but definitely end with smiles. Meg and Levi deserve their happy ending. This was my favorite of the three stories.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BRUNSWICK BAY HARBOR GEMS
Series: Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #1 - 3
Category /Genre: Romantic Suspense
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Ann Omasta (as an ARC gifted copy)
SHATTERED DIAMONDS
Alex and Josie’s story was highly addictive and I was rooting for them from the beginning. She had lost her dreams of Olympic gold. He was being wrongly accused in the disappearance of his wife.
On the other hand, I was frustrated throughout the book in that I felt that there should be more about the disappearance. Since this was a major factor in how the town treated Alex, shouldn’t the reader know more than “Claire’s missing. The town blames Alex, but he didn’t do it.”
SHINING PEARLS
Yeah! More of an explanation of what happened to Claire. Boo! Josie is devastated once again. Yeah and Boo and OMG the twists and turns and ups and downs. Yes, this one was made me an emotional mess. So much happens and I can’t say much without giving away the surprises. READ IT!
SHIMMERING EMERALDS
Claire’s sister Meg was especially hard on Alex. Now we get to see another side of her as she gets to her HEA. First there is a horrible bus crash with the kids – yikes!!!! And a sighting of Kevin Dursley.
The emotions are strong and free-flying, but definitely end with smiles. Meg and Levi deserve their happy ending. This was my favorite of the three stories.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BRUNSWICK BAY HARBOR GEMS
Series: Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #1 - 3
Category /Genre: Romantic Suspense
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Ann Omasta (as an ARC gifted copy)
February 16, 2020
An Odd Collection for a Box Set
This is a slightly different box set than most. I adore box sets, as they're quite a bargain, and if all from one author, it's a great way to binge-read a series. Most of the box sets that I read, though, take place in the same world or community, but each book mostly stands alone—with its own couple and that couple’s relationship trajectory. This felt more like a duet comprised of books 1 and 2 and a standalone, so that felt a little odd. Book 1 definitely ended on a cliffhanger, so I was glad to have the series so I could just keep on reading. I find myself disappointed in the duet, though. I felt a little ill at ease with book 1, as the central couple became closer, though mostly on an emotional level, because the man's wife had been missing for a year. Her body hadn't shown up anywhere, so technically he was still married. And then the second half of the duet depicts how that resolves. I liked Alex in the first book, but I wasn't so wild about him in the second book. There are definitely some issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage in this novel, enough to be distracting at times. I did receive an ARC copy of this book, but I did check the Look Inside feature at Amazon, and the problems were still present in the published edition. The one that particularly drove me a little crazy was the occasional unnecessary use of a comma between the subject and the verb. The author liked to construct some complicated sentences, which I adore, but to pull that off successfully, you need to know how to punctuate them.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
This is a slightly different box set than most. I adore box sets, as they're quite a bargain, and if all from one author, it's a great way to binge-read a series. Most of the box sets that I read, though, take place in the same world or community, but each book mostly stands alone—with its own couple and that couple’s relationship trajectory. This felt more like a duet comprised of books 1 and 2 and a standalone, so that felt a little odd. Book 1 definitely ended on a cliffhanger, so I was glad to have the series so I could just keep on reading. I find myself disappointed in the duet, though. I felt a little ill at ease with book 1, as the central couple became closer, though mostly on an emotional level, because the man's wife had been missing for a year. Her body hadn't shown up anywhere, so technically he was still married. And then the second half of the duet depicts how that resolves. I liked Alex in the first book, but I wasn't so wild about him in the second book. There are definitely some issues with grammar, punctuation, and usage in this novel, enough to be distracting at times. I did receive an ARC copy of this book, but I did check the Look Inside feature at Amazon, and the problems were still present in the published edition. The one that particularly drove me a little crazy was the occasional unnecessary use of a comma between the subject and the verb. The author liked to construct some complicated sentences, which I adore, but to pull that off successfully, you need to know how to punctuate them.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
February 24, 2020
I did receive an ARC copy of this book, and I expect issues but these books have been published and when I checked against my purchased single copies of book 1 and 2 and the same issues were present. It’s not like this author to leave a book with so many edits so I checked for updates but there wasn’t any and now the same issues are in the boxset so I’m not sure what to think. Normally I would hack off a few stars as I hate books that are up for sale with this many edits but I have to assume it is a mistake of some sort and I hope the author works it out. I love a boxset. Even though, most times, I have already purchased each,book separately, if I’m offered the boxset at a reasonable price I will buy. It lets me get rid of the senate stand alone’s and I get to read the series in place. This box set is slightly different even though it’s titled books 1 to 3 in the Brunswick Bay series; this is actually Books 1 and 2 and book 1 ends in a cliffhanger so I was happy to have book 2 and the 3rd book is more of a stand alone. Book 1 and 2 probably isn’t my fav by this author. Book 1 centers around Alex. His wife has been missing for a year and a half but her body hadn’t show up so even though he had an emotional connection he was still married and unavailable for more. The 2nd book was more the 2nd half of a duet and Alex was not as liable in the 2nd book! It’s was a bit odd.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2021
Shattered Diamonds (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #1), my thirtieth read from author Ann Omasta and the first book in her Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems series. An entertaining and well-written read from her. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. It was intriguing to listen to the author that wrote the book narrate it herself.
Shining Pearls (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #2), my thirty-first read from author Ann Omasta and the second book in her Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems series. Another entertaining and well-written read from her. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it.
Shimmering Emeralds (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #3), my thirty-second read from author Ann Omasta. Another entertaining, and well-written read the third in this captivating series that I'd managed to read out of order, not realizing I'd missed a book until I was done reading Shocking Sapphires (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #5). I received a free Kindle copy of this book & have liked the Audible editions read by the author so much I went out & bought this one to catch up on the series. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I'll be reading more from this author, on to the net book in the series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
Shining Pearls (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #2), my thirty-first read from author Ann Omasta and the second book in her Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems series. Another entertaining and well-written read from her. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it.
Shimmering Emeralds (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems, #3), my thirty-second read from author Ann Omasta. Another entertaining, and well-written read the third in this captivating series that I'd managed to read out of order, not realizing I'd missed a book until I was done reading Shocking Sapphires (Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems #5). I received a free Kindle copy of this book & have liked the Audible editions read by the author so much I went out & bought this one to catch up on the series. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I'll be reading more from this author, on to the net book in the series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
November 18, 2025
Ann Omasta-writer and narrator...
Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems -Books 1-3 of 6
The single female narrator made it hard to track who was speaking until context clues could be heard. The H, h, and girl had lots of back and forth conversations plus their voiced inner dialog so it was constant work. I continuously considered DNF due to narration, but wanted to know what happened. The narrator says each character's name when the speaker changes, but one voice throughout, listening while working, etc, make it hard to catch every time---until, again, I realize the content doesn't match the speaker in my head. I continued through book 3, really liking the characters and the story, but had to break and hear something else between 2 and 3.
Each book ends with...not a cliffhanger, but resolution to current events PLUS a preview of what's coming next.
Yes, I know the author and narrator are the same. I think the writer shows great promise. Her voice is not the problem at all---nice voice. She just needs narration lessons and a male counterpart to do justice to the writing.
I'm stopping here for now, but will likely come back to this series. It's worth it.
Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems -Books 1-3 of 6
The single female narrator made it hard to track who was speaking until context clues could be heard. The H, h, and girl had lots of back and forth conversations plus their voiced inner dialog so it was constant work. I continuously considered DNF due to narration, but wanted to know what happened. The narrator says each character's name when the speaker changes, but one voice throughout, listening while working, etc, make it hard to catch every time---until, again, I realize the content doesn't match the speaker in my head. I continued through book 3, really liking the characters and the story, but had to break and hear something else between 2 and 3.
Each book ends with...not a cliffhanger, but resolution to current events PLUS a preview of what's coming next.
Yes, I know the author and narrator are the same. I think the writer shows great promise. Her voice is not the problem at all---nice voice. She just needs narration lessons and a male counterpart to do justice to the writing.
I'm stopping here for now, but will likely come back to this series. It's worth it.
February 8, 2020
A great group of stories
Shattered Diamonds
This story ends on one heck of a cliff-hanger.
However, this is an amazingly well-written story. Loved the characters, including the stuffed giraffe!
Having grown up in a town smaller than this the judgemental attitudes of people was very well portrayed.
Another really good book by Ms. Omasta.
Can’t wait for what happens next
Shining Pearls
This is a beautifully written love triangle romance set in small-town
This is an easy read with a bit of heat.
I had previously read Shattered Diamonds (which also ended on a cliff hanger) and was taken with the story, fraught with heartache, loss, but also hope for a brighter future.
Can't wait to find out what happens next in Brunswick Bay Harbor.
A great read. Highly recommend.
Shimmering Emeralds
A wonderful second chance romance story with great characters and good story line.
Highly recommend.
Although I had read these stories before, I enjoyed reading them again as a group.
I received a free copy of this group of stories via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shattered Diamonds
This story ends on one heck of a cliff-hanger.
However, this is an amazingly well-written story. Loved the characters, including the stuffed giraffe!
Having grown up in a town smaller than this the judgemental attitudes of people was very well portrayed.
Another really good book by Ms. Omasta.
Can’t wait for what happens next
Shining Pearls
This is a beautifully written love triangle romance set in small-town
This is an easy read with a bit of heat.
I had previously read Shattered Diamonds (which also ended on a cliff hanger) and was taken with the story, fraught with heartache, loss, but also hope for a brighter future.
Can't wait to find out what happens next in Brunswick Bay Harbor.
A great read. Highly recommend.
Shimmering Emeralds
A wonderful second chance romance story with great characters and good story line.
Highly recommend.
Although I had read these stories before, I enjoyed reading them again as a group.
I received a free copy of this group of stories via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
ONE HEARTWARMING COLLECTION!!!
Splendid! Ann rocks this bad boy from start to finish with these engaging storylines and captivating plots bringing this impressive collection together seamlessly. Illustrating incredible, well rounded scenario's, ramping up the exuberance and adrenaline with such intensity and precision, blasting this little fella to life brilliantly. Seizing the reigns, witnessing the trials and tribulations, as they struggle through the stunning twists and surprising turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. The attraction and chemistry flows from the pages alluring and mesmerizing, exposing an undeniable attraction and a deep connection, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are authentic and realistic with personalities and depth that blasts this baby to life brilliantly. The scenes are so colorfully described it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Ann, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Splendid! Ann rocks this bad boy from start to finish with these engaging storylines and captivating plots bringing this impressive collection together seamlessly. Illustrating incredible, well rounded scenario's, ramping up the exuberance and adrenaline with such intensity and precision, blasting this little fella to life brilliantly. Seizing the reigns, witnessing the trials and tribulations, as they struggle through the stunning twists and surprising turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. The attraction and chemistry flows from the pages alluring and mesmerizing, exposing an undeniable attraction and a deep connection, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are authentic and realistic with personalities and depth that blasts this baby to life brilliantly. The scenes are so colorfully described it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Remarkable job Ann, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
February 25, 2020
Brunswick Bay Harbor Gems (Books 1 - 3): Shattered Diamonds, Shining Pearls, and Shimmering Emeralds” by Ann Omasta is a tale of three stories set in Brunswick Bay Harbor Maine ......Shattered Diamonds..the tale of Josie and Alex whose wife...Claire is missing and Alex is distraught and the town is blaming him ..and yet his daughter Hannah is pushing Josie and Alex together....as her father needs comfort and she herself likes Josie.
Shining Pearls...is the the ongoing tale of Josie and Alex.....and a returned Claire...who had left earlier with no warning and returned to find her family had moved on without her ....and Should Josie now cling to Dean...as he adores her ?!? Shimmering Emeralds...The tale of Levi...and Claire’s sister Meg.....and Meg’s daughter Harperand the fallout from a awful bus crash years ago. All three are wonderful stories...Read and See!! Much Enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shining Pearls...is the the ongoing tale of Josie and Alex.....and a returned Claire...who had left earlier with no warning and returned to find her family had moved on without her ....and Should Josie now cling to Dean...as he adores her ?!? Shimmering Emeralds...The tale of Levi...and Claire’s sister Meg.....and Meg’s daughter Harperand the fallout from a awful bus crash years ago. All three are wonderful stories...Read and See!! Much Enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2020
This is a set of three stories with the first two plotted tightly together but the third, while having an overlapping of characters, is almost completely different. The original stories focuses on a missing wife and the assumption of the police and town that the husband is responsible for her death. Complications ensue when the husband moves on and forms another romantic relationship. Somehow this whole thing didn't really work in my head ... I really didn't like the idea that the husband, Alex, was so quick to move on while is wife was still presumed alive and he never seemed to really live up to his role in the whole complicated situation. The last story (Shimmering Emeralds) was better for me. I thought the story was more catchy, the characters more warm and I enjoyed it to the end.
I won a copy of this Kindle book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this Kindle book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
February 13, 2020
This was a great box set and i like all three novels
Shattered dreams.. josie& Alex were lost sould just trying to ind their way to help each other in their time of need.
Shinning pearls . The answes to the question left from shattered dreams are answered and more.
Simmering emerlds . Was a very emotional read where we come to understand meg and why she is the way she is with levi and the crash involving kevin.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shattered dreams.. josie& Alex were lost sould just trying to ind their way to help each other in their time of need.
Shinning pearls . The answes to the question left from shattered dreams are answered and more.
Simmering emerlds . Was a very emotional read where we come to understand meg and why she is the way she is with levi and the crash involving kevin.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2020
Not enough depth
Ann is a great writer but there is not enough depth in the story for me. The people who did the wrong thing were never held accountable and never had to make amends for their actions. The way Alex treated Josie afterwards was unforgiveable. I don't believe we got a happy ending as too many things were left unsaid.
I also had the audible and although Ann is a great narrator I believe having a male read the masculine roles would be more enjoyable and easier to follow.
Ann is a great writer but there is not enough depth in the story for me. The people who did the wrong thing were never held accountable and never had to make amends for their actions. The way Alex treated Josie afterwards was unforgiveable. I don't believe we got a happy ending as too many things were left unsaid.
I also had the audible and although Ann is a great narrator I believe having a male read the masculine roles would be more enjoyable and easier to follow.
May 23, 2021
This not a romance. The couple that is featured do not end up together.
His wife who disappeared a year ago suddenly shows up. The nanny, he hired after wife disappeared had become his sexual partner.
Wife is pregnant with husbands child, and so is the former nanny.
Wife and husband stay together. Nanny gets with male best friend she's never had sexual feelings for.
Third story is romance with a lot of angst.
This is a serial. Not a series. Every story ends in a cliffhanger.
I feel decieved by the author. I bought this believing it was romance, not women's fiction.
His wife who disappeared a year ago suddenly shows up. The nanny, he hired after wife disappeared had become his sexual partner.
Wife is pregnant with husbands child, and so is the former nanny.
Wife and husband stay together. Nanny gets with male best friend she's never had sexual feelings for.
Third story is romance with a lot of angst.
This is a serial. Not a series. Every story ends in a cliffhanger.
I feel decieved by the author. I bought this believing it was romance, not women's fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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