Coming Home to Merriment Bay: Part Two: Sparks Fly

Coming Home to Merriment Bay #2

by Emily Harvale

Part Two of this heartwarming four-part serial about finding the strength to put the past behind you and to reach out for a future filled with happiness and love. Cat Devon knew she couldn’t avoid Amias Wells for long. She also knew sparks would fly the moment they came face to face. They never did get on and nothing has changed in eighteen years – except that Amias is even more annoying. So why does Cat still catch her breath whenever he looks her way? The fact he flies a vintage Spitfire for the Merriment Bay WWII Museum doesn’t interest Cat, but his knowledge of the former RAF pilots stationed there certainly does. She wants to find out all she can about the man in the photo in Viola’s trunk. And what with hospital visits, dealing with her mum, and sorting out problems with Viola’s house, Cat could use more than just Kyra’s help. But Kyra makes it clear she thinks Cat and Amias should spend more time together. Which is ridiculous. Apart from the fact they don’t get on, Amias wasn’t interested in Cat before the accident that left the ugly scars on her face and body, so he definitely won’t be attracted to her now. Besides, Cat’s not looking for romance. She’s happy with her life just the way it is. This is Part Two of a new, four-part serial. The parts Coming Home to Merriment Bay - Part A Reunion Coming Home to Merriment Bay - Part Sparks Fly Coming Home to Merriment Bay - Part Christmas Coming Home to Merriment Bay - Part Starry Skies This is a novel told in four parts. It forms Book One in Emily Harvale's Merriment Bay series which is interconnected to her Wyntersleap series. Each series can be read alone, but several characters appear in both series. What readers and reviewers are “Sparks Fly is definitely an appropriate title for this book; I have adored it. I actually want to move to Merriment Bay, Harvale has created a wonderful setting for this story.” – Little Miss Booklover 87 “It is 5 stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed the plot and the author’s writing style was fabulous as always – very highly recommended!!” – Donna’s Book Blog “Mystery and hints of love made this a fabulous read. 5 stars” – Shalini’s Books and Reviews “I simple adore Emily Harvale’s addictive storytelling and her ability to get the most out of each and every one of her characters.” – The Writing Garnet “There were a couple of unexpected revelations leaving the way open for more to come – and I can’t wait! Well worth all five stars.” – Grace J Reviewerlady “Emily Harvale has once again stolen my heart with her compelling story telling!" – Audio Killed the Bookmark “Once I started to read the book, I didn’t move a muscle until I finished the last word on the last page. I couldn’t bear to break off from reading this fabulous part of the story. A very well deserved 5* out of 5*. – Ginger Book Geek

Genres: Novella, Romance, Chick Lit, Womens Fiction, Fiction

79 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 23, 2019

About the author

Emily writes novels, novellas and short stories about friendship, family and falling in love. She believes in love at first sight and she loves a happy ending but knows that life doesn't always go to plan. Her stories are sure to bring a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart.

Emily loves to connect with her readers. In addition to her newsletter, she has a readers' group on Facebook, where she shares all her latest news and even gets readers involved in choosing titles, book covers and more. To catch up with Emily, find out about the group, or connect with her on social media, go to her website at https://www.emilyharvale.com

Having lived and worked in London for several years, Emily returned to her home town of Hastings where she writes full-time. She’s a member of the SoA, an Amazon bestseller and a Kindle All Star. When not writing, Emily says she can be found enjoying the stunning East Sussex coast and countryside, but she’s more likely to be found with friends, enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of coffee, and definitely some cake. Emily has two mischievous rescue cats, Beatrix and Portia, who like to sprawl across her keyboard, regardless of whether Emily is typing on it, or not.

Catch up with Emily on her website https://www.emilyharvale.com or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/emilyharvalew... or Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/emilyharvale

Reviews

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my, this is like an addictive soap opera with heinous villains to love to hate. Mary Devon and Granny Violet are vile and have me wanting to bathe my Kindle in bleach. I am inventing new swear words to call Emily Harvale for her wicked tricks. I am totally ensnared. She lured me in and teased me by divulging a few extremely juicy tidbits and a little knowledge is a dangerous thing as it has just deepened the overall mystery. Ms. Harvale is far too clever and rather despicable as now her hooks are too deeply embedded into my curiosity - tickling and taunting - I must know the secrets. Curses, I am stamping my little foot with impatience!

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second part in the delightful Merriment Bay series. You definitely need to read the first book to fully understand this book, this is a series that absolutely needs to be read in order. The story picks up right where the first book left off with Cat and Kyra trying to figure out who the mysterious man in the picture is? Could this possibly be Cat’s grandfather? Everyone has so many secrets in the story both Cat and her mother have no idea who their fathers are? We also get to see “sparks fly“ when Cat and Amias first see each other again. We also come to understand what had kept them apart all those years ago. Some secrets were revealed in this story, however some of them lead to even more questions. Cannot wait to pick up the third installment in this book and see what is next in store for this engaging cast of characters. Emily Harvale has once again stole my heart with her compelling story telling!

This book in emojis 🏖 🎨 🛩

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

Book 1 ought to be read to understand this book. The story continued on with Cat and her daughter Kyra back home on Merriment Bay where Cat found letters and photo in the attic, and the mystery deepened. Romance too showed its glimpse when Cat and Amias confronted each other after 18 years.

Author Emily Harvale's writing got me imagining the words as the story flowed smoothly, evoking its emotions. I liked how Cat was thrown at the deep end, yet she managed to surface and deal with everything. She was characterized well with confidence and tinges of insecurity. The other characters added to the warmth this book brought, Amias especially.

It brought a smile to my face to read Cat's scenes with Amias. Sparks literally flew. They would make a cute couple, only the next 2 books would confirm. In this book, Cat required his help to find out more about the identity of the man in the letters and picture. The mystery certainly kept me intrigued too.

The book in 80 pages gave me a story yet made me long for more, quite a clever piece of writing. Mystery and hints of love made this a fabulous read.

[Laura Nelson (Tangents and Tissues) · Rating 5 out of 5]

*wails*

Holy Mother of Cliffhangers!

You can’t leave it there *shakes fist*.

Emily Harvale, you tease, you!

I was so engrossed, then BOOM 🤯, it’s all over and now the wait begins – again!!

Full disclosure: this review will be riddled with exclamation marks.

I still have more questions than answers. Who, what, where, why and when – you catch my drift?!

That tease comment above? Well, some new piece of the puzzle was revealed but not enough to give you the complete picture. Just enough to tantalise the senses! And, boy, you all know I love a bit of teasing *smirks*.

I’m sure I was doing my very best catching flies’ impression whilst reading this latest instalment. Not my best look, I admit *snorts*.

And *blushes*, I had my own soundtrack of noises to accompany the latest revelations, but let’s not go there shall we. Word of advice – best not read this in public if you’re anything like me...

What was that?

Oh, Amias *coughs*.

What about him?

Me? Coy? Pfft, puh-lease.

Okay, okay.

I’ll put it this way.

I don’t know which urge was the strongest. The one to slap him, or the one to kiss him. Hmm, or maybe a combination of the two *winks*. Heh-heh!

What can I say? *shrugs* We all know I’m complicated.

Finally, Kyra, keep up the good work.

*rolls eyes*

Yes, I know she’s a fictional character. Just indulge me – ok?

Part Three can’t come quick enough!

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ Another Gem.... Part 2 ... has a lil dash of intrigue and mystery.

Part 2 Sparks Fly continues where part one left off. This book is definitely not a standalone you really need to read part 1 as it is a continuation. But so far it's a fantastic series.

Cat and her Daughter Kyra are beginning to bond again with Cat's Mother Mary, after a difficult period apart. Secrets, discoveries and a tense meeting is about to unravel!

That is all I'm going to reveal.

Wow oh wow....I absolutely love Harvale's stories and her incredible ability to drip feed us gossip then throw in a couple of juicy twists then leave us wanting more... needing more...and craving answers!

I adore Cat and Kyra they are already becoming two of my favourite characters I warmed to immediately. I am really looking forward to discovering more.

Emily has a wonderful way of bringing her characters to life, they become so vivid, that they become friends.

Once again this is another Gem of a book, that is enthralling, heart warming, highly absorbing, it has a lil dash of intrigue and mystery, light hearted humour and family drama.
I can't wait for the third instalment!

Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.



My Review is also on my Blog Website :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/1...

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, you really need to read the first book in this series before starting this one. It would definitely be beneficial to get the most enjoyment.

The story follows on from where we left Cat and Kyra when they returned to Merriment Bay. Sparks certainly seem to be flying when it comes to Cat and Amias. The author is keeping any signs of a relationship between these two, well and truly up her sleeve though. Obviously this has made me desperate to read the last two books in the series.

It’s hard to say to much about what happens in the book as it may spoil it for readers who haven’t read the first installment. This book focuses more on finding the man behind the letters and photo from Viola’s trunk. We get a bit further on in finding out but again, the author doesn’t reveal to much to ensure we come back for more.

Coming Home To Merriment Bay: Part Two: Sparks Fly is an engaging and cosy read. It is packed full of charm with wonderful characters that makes it endearing to the reader. Am now on tenterhooks until part three and four are out.

My thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.

[Gmr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sounds like the groundwork has been laid for some sparks to REALLY start to fly! I mean, it's beyond obvious to pretty much everyone that Cat's feelings are still there hiding barely below the surface, and it seems as if Amias may not have been so put off my her attention from their youth as she thought. From the sound of things, the words of others got in the way of what might have been as well as a few well placed lies. HOWEVER...all the secrets that are starting to come to the surface...will they we strong enough to survive whatever life may be about to throw at them AND embark on something long overdue?

I can honestly say that I like how this novel-in-series is shaping up and though different in delivery style, it works for today's moving and shaking lifestyle. The characters are definitely leaving their marks, and one can't help but chuckle at the way Cat's daughter played her mom's not-so-hidden affections like a well tuned fiddle! The look on Cat's face when "out of nowhere" Amias appears...priceless.


*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

This is the second instalment in the Coming Home to Merriment Bay series and I loved it – possibly even more than the first part and that was really good!

I love the characters in the story and I have warmed to them all, they different personalities and they work so well together too. It was such an easy story to read I thoroughly enjoyed it all. I cannot wait to read the third and fourth books now, it is almost like a mini soap opera and I am loving finding out the secrets and gossip!

It is 5 stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed the plot and the author’s writing style was fabulous as always – very highly recommended!! Be aware though that you do need to read this series in order.

[Nessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is part two to a four part book series, although all four parts also form book one of the Merriment Bay series. Meaning you can read this story in four parts or all together as one full book.

This part two has been just as enjoyable as part one to read, it’s interesting and great seeing how things are going with Cat and Amias, can’t wait to get to the part in the story when they finally reveal their feelings for each other and just how long they’ve had those feelings for.

Now although I already know who Cat’s father is, (having already had the pleasure of reading previous Wyntersleap series which is interlinked with this series but can be read as standalone), I thoroughly enjoyed hearing the story of how Cat’s father and Cat’s Mum Mary met/came together and hearing Mary’s side of the story. But poor Cat though, she now knows more about her Father but still doesn’t know his name. Hopefully she’ll find that out soon enough.

Well there was lots more happening in this story, far too much to mention here, but suffice to say the story is full on, plenty happening, lots of drama, secrets. Who’d have thought so much could be crammed into just part two of the story.

So on to part three, where hopefully we’ll find out even more about Bailey Mitchell, the pilot that was in the old RAF photo that was found in Cat’s Gran’s belongings with the unopened letters and also that Cat will finally find out who her Dad was.

[Susanne Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

So the mystery deepens even further!
Once more I’m enthralled with the story, desperate to find out who is Cat’s dad and where she will spill the beans about her own feelings from the past!
Such a page turner!

[Bobbi Accetturo · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re wondering keep your interest

Can’t wait to go to the next bookYou can turn the page iFast enough you’re wondering where it’s going to lead to

[Sallie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read!

It is keeping me wanting to read more
Like the short chapters
Easy to read and good imagery in the story

[Martha L. Guillerault · Rating 3 out of 5]

Each book is really a chapter

The story is fine is a come on to getting the next book. "7 more words before I can submit."

[Claire Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't put it down on to part three

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read and thoroughly enjoyed reading the first part of the 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay'. 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay' is a four part serial. As soon as I had finished reading the first part, I grabbed a copy of the second part and sat reading the second part, whilst holding a nice cup of tea in my other hand. 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay- Part Two: Sparks Fly' was another fabulous read from Emily Harvale and a cracking second part in what is sure to be a bestselling series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it but more about that in a bit.
I couldn't help but take to the characters of Cat and Kyra from the moment I reunited with them. Cat is Kyra's mother. She has recently returned to Merriment Bay as one of her relatives in seriously ill in hospital and Cat has been asked to return home. She had mixed feelings about returning home as the place holds a lot of memories for her- both good and bad. After she returns to the area, she learns a big family secret, which in a way stuns her but at the same time she is eager to learn more about the individual in question. Whilst she is there she comes across Amias, who was an acquaintance of her then partner. She and Amias didn't exactly see eye to eye but when they meet up again, well let's just say that sparks fly and not in a negative sense. I was keeping everything crossed that the pair of them would just stop dancing round each other and get on with getting together. Does that happen? Well for the answers to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read this delightful second part of the 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay' serial to find out because I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn into this book from the moment I read the synopsis, let alone from when I began to read part two itself. Once I started to read the book, I didn't move a muscle until I finished the last word on the last page. Quite simply I was enjoying the second part so much that I couldn't bear to break off from reading this fabulous part of the story. I was absorbed in the story that I really did feel as though I was part of the story. In fact I kept thinking that if Cat didn't want Amias then I would have him but then I had to remind myself that this is a fictional story and Amias doesn't exist (boo). I was so enjoying this part of the story that I managed to shut out everything else that was going on around me.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay- Part Two: Sparks Fly' and it was a fabulous sequel to the first part. I would definitely recommend this author and her books to other readers. I can't wait to read the third part of the series called 'Coming Home To Merriment Bay- Part Three: Christmas' and fortunately I don't have long to wait as I have a copy ready and waiting for me to start it, which I will do just as soon as I have finished typing this. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the bond between mother & daughter duo Cat & Kyra. This book wouldn't make sense if read as a standalone, reading the series is an absolute must!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Part Two of the Merriment Bay serialisation. I would recommend that you read these books in order as the stories do follow on. We return to Cat Devon and her daughter, Kyra. They have returned to Merriment Bay after 18 years away following the illness of Cat’s grandmother. The story picks up on the cliff-hanger left on Part One: The Reunion. These books are only short novella sized stories, which could eventually be made into one book, but as they are so short they are absolutely perfect for reading in one sitting!!

It’s really difficult to review these books without giving too much away. I have really enjoyed both parts of the story so far and am looking forward to the concluding two parts to finish the story off. I really like Cat and her daughter Kyra. Obviously, there is a background as to why Cat left all those years ago and some of it we have already been told about and some, I think, will be revealed in the next two books. In this instalment, Cat finally comes face to face with the man who she has been trying to avoid since she returned to Merriment Bay, Amias Wells. There is also a mystery still being pondered as to who is the man in the photo amongst her grandmother’s belongings and the subject of Cat’s father also comes into the story!

I love the characters within this series, and in this part I’ve come to see Cat’s mother, Mary in a completely different light, particularly with her new man Jeremy on the scene! The story was heart-warming with a little bit of mystery and humour thrown in for good measure! The book is left on yet another cliff-hanger which will leave you desperate for Part Three to continue with the story!!

[Tiziana Langone · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a disappointment it was when I reached the end… 
Before Emily gets a heart attack for my declaration, I DID NOT WANT TO REACH THE END SO QUICKLY!!!

Slowly we are getting to know more about the past of the Devon women. And discovering the past means for Cat she has to face Amias, even though he apparently still dislikes her…
Or not?

I truly enjoyed discovering the past together with Cat and Kyra, and it was so nice to get to know Amias better.
We also get to know a little bit of Kyle, even if he isn’t actual present any more, his memory still lingers…

We also see how all the Devon – women slowly are finding the way to live all together, despite their differences. Mary was in the first part a bit distant, but now she is more open and being more open towards Cat and Kyra. She also realizes that Cat deserves to know the truth about her father but she cannot tell the whole truth.

A great second part, with still a lot of mysteries to be solved, and a lot of unspoken feelings to be exposed!
Looking forward to read Part 3 !

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues in this second instalment of this fab new series!

Settling into the family home in Merriment Bay, Kyra begins to make friends, whilst Cat continues trying to discover the identity of her own father. Kyra wants her mum to spend more time with Amias, but those two continue with the hostility which has always existed between them. With ghosts from the past in both their minds, will they ever move on?

This is another entertaining read, full of fun moments whilst the mystery continues! The setting is beautifully described and the story flows on smoothly, advancing just enough to keep the reader's attention without giving away too much of what's to come! Dipping into secrets from the past and looking towards the future, there were a couple of unexpected revelations leaving the way open for more to come in the third novella - and I can't wait! Well worth all five stars.

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second installment in the Merriment Bay series and continues right where book 1 ended.

Cat and her daughter, Kyra, are trying to figure out the identity of the man in an old photo and the author of some letters of Cat’s grandmother. She has relented and has agreed to ask Amias to help her. If you read book 1, you know these two have a very complicated relationship.

The book is short, but it is packed full of substance. I can’t really go into much detail because I don’t want to spoil anything. I will say that Emily Harvale picked the perfect title for this one, “Sparks Fly.” The sparks definitely fly between Cat and Amias, and I’m really interested to see the journey they are going to take together.

Harvale has a talent of giving her readers just enough to keep us coming back for more. I will definitely keep coming back for more, and I can’t wait to read the next installment.

[Christine Galletly · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I love this author's books and was really keen to get started on this book as soon as I finished part one!

This is turning out to be another great series and I thought that this was another great story - I am liking the characters even more as the book progresses and we get to find out their secrets - I can't wait to find out more about them too.

It is 5 stars from me - I am really looking forward to reading part three now after reading this one - very highly recommended!!

[Mrs A J Geeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Sparks Fly is definitely the right name for this book!

Emily Harvale you have done it again! The story is getting better the more I read, I literally have read this book from start to finish without leaving my seat, I cannot wait for part 3!!!

[Tracy Fry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot wait for part 3

I'm in love with this book and its characters, as always Emily pulls you into the setting and makes you feel like you're a local not a visitor, I am so excited for part 3 xxxx

[Tracey Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant!! Cannot wait for the next instalment!!

[Lyndsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

loved this cant wait for next part

[Pat Langhelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's getting more interesting who is Cats Dad, roll on part three

[rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't wait!!!!

Who is Cats father? Will Viola recover? Lots of questions we need answers to! Roll on 12th November to continue the story!

[G. McGavin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great continuing story

Really enjoying this series of books. The author makes You feel that you know all the characters. Looking forward to Part 3.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second installment did not disappoint. The story set in a beautiful part of the country is starting to unwind. Plenty of secrets to be told. Looking g forward to the next installment already.