Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay

Coming Home to Merriment Bay

by Emily Harvale

Cat has found true happiness in Merriment Bay. Will a discovery in Devon Villa change that? Cat Devon is finally with the love of her life – and she couldn’t be happier about that. But discovering the identity of her real dad and the fact she has two half-brothers was a shock. Getting to know her new family is now a priority. Kyra Devon is only eighteen, but she’s more mature than her mum in many ways and is coping far better with everything that’s happened. Kyra knows what she wants and unlike Cat, she’s not going to let opportunities slip away. Mary Devon has regained her daughter and her granddaughter, but she’s grieving for her mother, and also for the loss of the love she thought she’d found. Putting on a brave face may not be the best way for Mary to get over it. When a long-lost painting called Moonbeams Kiss is discovered in a hidden cellar beneath the floorboards in Devon Villa, a story of love, loss and treachery unfolds, bringing with it repercussions for each of the Devon women. This is Book Two 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. “She writes with such love and passion you can’t help but relax a bit as you read, maybe we should ask for an ‘Emily’ book on prescription in these times of unease because of the pandemic.” – Ali -The Dragon Slayer – reviewer. “This is another absolutely fantastic book by a superb author. I have loved every second of this book. It has been a delight to read and highly deserving of five shiny stars.” – Little Miss Book Lover 87 - reviewer “There’s a beautiful flow to this book, and it’s a lovely bit of escapism. An uplifting and entertaining read, if you haven’t tried this series before I’d really recommend it.” – Sibzzreads – reviewer. “Another perfect escapism read from Emily Harvale and I look forward to seeing what comes next for the residents of Merriment Bay.” – Novel Kicks – reviewer “Her latest has not only met my expectations it’s far surpassed them and I’m happily anticipating where all the characters will head to next. Another terrific, five star read which I’m happy to recommend.” – Grace J. Reviewerlady – reviewer “The discovery in Devon House was fantastic and really hooked me in. I love a bit of mystery and this was very well written, with intrigue and great information. It’s definitely action packed” – The Comfy Chair – Book Reviews – reviewer

Genres: Romance, Fiction

235 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 30, 2020

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

[Berit☀️✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy Romance sprinkled with a compelling mystery. Emily Harvale Has once again captured my heart with her magical storytelling. Delightful characters, a lovely setting, and a captivating story. This is part of the Merriment Bay series which is interconnected with the Winter House series. The book could possibly beread as a standalone, but I strongly encourage you to read the previous books in both series. This book continues the story of the Devin women. Three generations of strong women: Cat, Kyra, and Mary. The story also reveals a mystery hiding in the floors of Devon Manor. I know I’m being a bit vague but I don’t want to spoil this book or any of the previous books for anybody. Just know this is a charming story filled with whimsy, romance, Mystery, friendship, new beginnings, difficult choices, and above all family.

Once again I found myself completely swept up into the lives of these fabulous characters. It was nice to see Cat so happy. It was also nice to see Mary start to heal. And Kyra? Oh to be 18 again... completely understood why Cat was trying to steer her in a specific direction. But I do think Kyra is a smart girl and will ultimately make a wise choice. This book had a little more mystery to it then most of the others in the series and I thought that was clever and fun. Excited to see what Emily has up her sleeve for the next books in this delightful series.

*** Big thank you to Emily Harvale for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***

[Dash fan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5☆ Heart Warming, Uplifting, Cosy Romance, with a Sprinkling of Mystery

As always it's such a pleasure to be back in Merriment Bay and catching up with characters that are more like friends.
Definitely a welcomed escapism from the reality of the real world right now!

This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading all the books in order as the background stories will help connect with the characters.

I loved catching up with Cat and the Devon family. I really enjoyed delving more into the history of the Devon family and the mysterious painting. Not to mention Kyra's new blossoming romance. So excited for her!

Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay is a heart warming, uplifting, cosy romance with drama, secrets and discoveries that I thoroughly enjoyed.
There is a compelling mystery this time round which definitely had me enthralled.
As always Emily Harvale creates the most loveable characters that quickly become friends.
I'm a huge fan of Emily's books and yet again she has written another gem you won't want to put down!

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



You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...

[Nursebookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Merriment Bay and Winterhouse Series read and I still enjoyed this book as a stand alone read abut the Devon family and the villa. After reading this installment I can tell why Author Emily Harvale such a strong following of readers.

I love a nice cozy mystery with a dose of romance with incredibly likable characters that drew me in and really made me want to read this series right from the beginning. This was a really lovely read that I enjoyed beautifully in one nice afternoon that took me mind out of this craziness and transported me into the lives of the wonderful characters in Merriment Bay. You will really enjoy reading about Cat, Kyra and Mary Devon in this Book 2 of the series.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was great to be back in Merriment Bay and catch up with all the characters again.

This is a story that is driven by strong female characters. The Devon women are all to be admired and I love that we get to see aspects of all three of their lives.

Cat and Amias’ relationship is going from strength to strength and their happiness is infectious. Kyra on the other hand is having a few issues in her own love life. It reminded me of what is was like to be eighteen again although she definitely has her head screwed on more than mine was at her age.

I enjoyed how the author incorporates the three women’s lives alongside the painting which adds some mystery and intrigue to the story. It was good to get a bit of history to Devon Villa and the author portrays the houses and area so well, making it vivid in my head.

Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay is a great follow on from the previous book in the series. I do think it would be best to read in order to get the full back ground of the characters and to gain the best enjoyment in this one. It’s like my favourite soap, being transported into the lives of the characters and eager for the next instalment to see what will happen next. A highly enjoyable read that oozes romance, relationships and more.

My thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for a readers copy of this book and inviting me to be part of the blog tour. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.

[Misfits farm · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the book where at the beginning some of the cast of Merriment Bay meet the cast of Wynter house as we saw in the last of the Wynter House series. That said you don’t have to have read both series but the beginning will make more sense if you have.(and why miss out on some more wonderful reads in the process?) This time it's a mystery. A painting is found in unusual circumstances and relates to an ancestor having been hanged for murdering a young woman. Why is the picture hidden and could it change the history of the village? I enjoy both of these series. A lighthearted read with a good plot and characters who are easily likeable. A wonderful escape especially in current times, and leaving us wanting more. A read with a smile and faith in human nature.

[Carol Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in this series I have read, and it took me a while to get to know all of the characters and their connections. I felt a little as if I had entered in the middle of the action, and needed to catch up. However, that didn’t last; I soon got to know and like the Devon family, their loves and associates. There is a good mix of characters across the age spectrum, and all have their own story (though not all are explored in this book).

The secret in the cellar grabbed my attention, and I liked this development, and the ramifications of it. I also liked the possible love interest it brought about for one of the younger Devons. But I’ll have to read on in the series to find out how that turns out.

Overall, this book felt like a favourite soap, where the characters welcomed me into their lives for a while and provided a lovely bit of escapism, at these uncertain times.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another triumph from Emily Harvale. A joyous story that let us see Cat's side of things from the previous interconnected Wynter House book, while also moving their story along.

There is a fresh mystery to get your head around, as well all manner of romances.

I love getting to know the Devon family even more, and seeing just how all 3 generations are moving on from the sad events of the previous book.

This could be read as a standalone but I think you would enjoy it even more if you have read others in the Merriment Bay and Wynter House series.

Incredibly likeable characters, all very relatable to and another jam packed book.

Well done to the author for yet another wonderful addition to the series

Thank you to Emily Harvale for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's only fairly recently that I discovered how flipping fantastic Emily's books are. I haven't managed to catch up with all of her past releases but after reading each new book that she releases, I try to read as much of her previous works as I can. I read the synopsis for 'Chasing Moonbeams In Merriment Bay' and it certainly sounded like another fantastic read and a chance to catch up with characters from the previous book set in Merriment Bay. 'Chasing Moonbeams In Merriment Bay' was another amazing read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading every single second of the story but more about that in a bit.
It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first sentence, I felt as though I had been reunited with old friends. To say that reading 'Chasing Moonbeams In Merriment Bay' became an addiction seems like the understatement of the century. I fell under this book's spell the moment I clapped eyes on the cover and the title, never mind from when I began to read the story itself. This book developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn't willing to break. I binge read this book over the course of a couple of hours. I was so immersed in the story that I lost all track of time and I lost track of how quickly I was reading the book. All too quickly I reached the end of the story, which I was disappointed about, as it meant that I had to say a goodbye to the residents of Merriment Bay.
'Chasing Moonbeams In Merriment Bay' is superbly written but then I think that all of Emily's books are superbly written. She creates adorable characters, that seem more like friends by the time you get so far through the story. Merriment Bay sounds like the sort of place I would love to live- by the seaside, friendly people and idyllic sounding houses and shops. Emily uses such vivid and realistic descriptions that I felt as though I was part of the story myself.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Chasing Moonbeams In Merriment Bay' and I would recommend this book to other readers. Emily's books are addictive, charming reads that will grip you, give you a warm feeling inside and have you almost cheering on certain characters. That's how I felt at any rate. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Cathy Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay is the second book in the series. I hadn’t read the first one and found myself struggling a little to begin with, not knowing the all character dynamics. The Merriment Bay books cross over with the Wintersleap series so there are characters and storylines I’m familiar with, which did help. This story focuses on the Devon family—matriarch Mary, her daughter Cat, and Cat’s daughter Kyra.

Cat and the love of her life, Amias, have finally got together and are blissfully happy, whereas Mary is grieving for her late mother and smarting over being duped by the man she had fallen in love with. Kyra, although in a relationship, is unsure if her boyfriend is the right one for her. With Cat and Amias spending more time together, Kyra is living at Devon House with her grandmother. When Mary has a fall over a loose floorboard, a secret is uncovered that shocks the family to the core. A long lost painting, attached to the centuries old tragedy of Titus Wells, is discovered and the consequences reverberate through families as more information is discovered.

Not only that, they are dealing with the revelation that Cat is half sibling to Rafe and Adam Wynter and Kyra has gained two uncles. Cat and Kyra couldn’t be happier to learn of new family members but Mary hates the fact the family are already the subject of village gossip, what with one thing and another. She can do without what she considers to be another scandal.

It was nice to see Neva and her family included in the story, with their move to Merriment Bay taking place. Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay is an easy, enjoyable read with secrets, mystery, romance and an interesting plot.

[Anna (booksandbookends) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4* A gorgeous uplifting romance with a dash of mystery and intrigue!

I've only read one other of Emily Harvale's books, New Beginnings at Wynter House. Because I've not read the rest of the series, it took me until about 20% through the book before I had a clue who all of the characters were. It took me a while to see the connections between the Wynter side of the family and the Merriment Bay connection. I'd strongly recommend reading the rest of the series before this book because otherwise you'll be as confused as I was initially! Needless to say, I still enjoyed this book as a standalone.

You're really thrown straight into the action of the various characters lives. The character's felt really realistic with their likeable personalities. It's a lovely cosy read and the mystery of the element of the story is my favourite. It's not often you find secrets lurking inside your own home but there certainly are plenty in the book! I was left constantly second guessing what I thought would happen!

It's lovely to read a story with so many strong female characters. All of their different relationship highs and lows are equally interesting to read. The author has a talent for so vividly making her characters come to life through the pages.

Another fantastic book by Emily Harvale. I can't wait to read more by this author!

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the Merriment Bay series. I have absolutely loved and enjoyed every second of this, the whole series has been an absolute delight of a story.

Book two has been full on drama, with lots happening, plus there been a mystery to solve with regards to some bones and a painting found in a secret cellar, which dates back to 1826, it was all very exciting stuff and I loved waiting in anticipation to see how that mystery would be solved and the consequences of it. There was so much more going on to, from Cat finally getting to meet her two brothers, too Kyra meeting a new male friend and questioning her feelings for him despite already having Lucas for a boyfriend, and so much more.

What I also loved about this book, was that we got to be reacquainted with some of the characters from the Wyntersleap series, being Rafe, Adam, Neve, Jo, Gavin, Dennis, which was truly lovely as I have been missing those characters.

I’m heading straight on to book three, which I can’t wait for but at the same time I’m a little sad, knowing that it is the last book and will bring the whole Merriment series to an end. I feel as if I’ve come to know these characters so well, almost as if they are friends, and so I’ll be sorry to have to say bye to them. It almost makes me want to read book three very slowly but I know that’ll help be impossible lol.

[Alison]

I haven’t been reading much these days due to concentration issues but the beauty of a book by Emiy Harvale means I know in advance that I will immediately be drawn in and soon become that extra character popping up in amongst the residents.

She writes with such love and passion you can’t help but relax a bit as you read, maybe we should ask for an ‘Emily’ book on prescription in these times of unease because of the pandemic. I tend to set aside one maybe two days where I have enough uninterrupted time to curl up and read from start to finish because as soon as I’m in that environment I want to enjoy village life, join in the gossip, stare agog when secrets from the past are revealed or provide a shoulder to cry on if one of the Devon ladies needs it!

Even though Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay can be read as a stand alone you will reap the benefits of reading the others in the series so you can understand the links between books and family members which crossover .. honestly just buy the set and snuggle down to read and enjoy while you can. As always I will be awaiting the next book from Emily with curiosity.

Thanks to Emily for my copy which I have read and reviewed voluntarily, all thoughts are my own. Also thanks to Rachel for inviting me onto the tour.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel carries straight on from the end of Part 4 of Coming Home to Merriment Bay and is centred around Cat and the Devon family.There is a shock instore for the whole family which makes everyone re-evaluate their opinions on past events. There are some new characters introduced and in this volume, Cat gets to meet her relatives in the Wynter family.

As ever, Emily is a great storyteller and I felt as though the story flew by. There are so many possibilities for future stories given the range of characters, so I am looking forward to some future stories. Cat's daughter Kyra is an independent and sparky character who comes a little nearer centre stage, with the promise of more storylines to come. This is a feelgood, warm series which is well worth a read.

In short: Romance and mystery occur in Merriment Bay
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

[Kerry https://likeherdingcatsblog.wordpress.com Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing Moonbeams works well as a standalone novel but forms parts of the Merriment Bay series and also is entwined with the Wyntersleap series too.  Reading the other books will give you a better sense of the character development however isn't necessary to enjoy the book. 

Every visit to Merriment Bay is like a visit to a familiar welcoming place - almost like coming home.  The characters are now like family and the surroundings and settings, although not new, are still captivating and a place I'd love to visit.  

The Merriment Bay series is mainly focused on the Devin women and their loves, relationships and lives.  They are all strong, admirable women in their own way and in different stages of their lives.  It was so easy to get caught up in their lives and I developed a protective instinct towards all of them.

 With this particular novel I loved the added bonus of a mystery.  An old painting discovered beneath floorboards provided a cosy mystery running alongside the romance trope and I enjoyed 'watching' it unfold.  It kept me turning pages until the very end.

A cosy romance with a hint of mystery in a wonderful setting.  What more could you ask for?      

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book #2 of the Merriment Bay series. It can however be read as a standalone book, but I would recommend reading the other book, and books from the Wyntersleap series as characters from all of them are included! We are back in Merriment Bay and reunited with Cat Devon and her daughter, Kyra. A lot has happened since Cat returned to Merriment Bay, she has made peace with her mother, Mary and discovered she has a new family. Her 18-year-old daughter, Kyra is also settling into life in Merriment Bay. There is a mystery to solve in this book though when a painting is found relating to the Devon family history.

I’ve really enjoyed books in the other series by this author, and love how this series overlaps with the Wyntersleap series – two lots of great characters for the price of one! I loved the Devon family from the previous book, and found it an emotional storyline when the three generations were reunited with each other. All three Devon ladies are lovely characters, each with their own different qualities to add to the book, and with the discovery of an old painting, this adds mystery and intrigue into the storyline! It’s also lovely to see them all settling down into their lives now, even though they are still all feeling the knock-on effects of their loss in the previous book.

We welcome back all the other supporting characters, and I was particularly pleased to see Cat and Amias’s relationship still going strong, especially after how long it took for them to there!! This book is full of romance, fun and family relationships with some mystery thrown in, coupled with some great picturesque images of Merriment Bay and the Devon Villa thanks to the author’s descriptive writing! A very enjoyable book as part of the series, and I shall look forward to reading more of the Devon family!

[Pat Langhelt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving this book and kyra you made me laugh

[Em Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay is the second in the series, and follows the Devon clan as they try to keep going after the events of the first novel, and then find themselves wrapped up in a mystery involving a painting and possible murder from a few hundred years ago. While investigating, they’ll discover their small town’s families have always been wrapped up in each other’s business, and that perhaps things used to be able to be hidden away, but eventually, the truth always comes out.

Written in 3rd person, with Cat as the main character, we interestingly don’t have a single narrator. We follow the characters like a TV show on paper – we watch them, but never get invited into their headspace. It’s an incredibly clean way of writing and allows a large cast of characters to each have ‘screen time’ without head hopping or delving too far from the main plot. I’ve been reading a lot of 1st person, deep internal, novels lately, so this was a lovely, unexpected change for me. I said clean earlier because that’s the best way of describing this. It’s succinct, very well edited, and doesn’t dip away from the point without purpose. It’s not rigid, but there’s an obvious thread that the author isn’t new at this and has gotten to know their universe incredibly well. This is one in a vast catalogue, and it shows. If you’re after a read by someone fully comfortable in what they do, and with a large array of books to sink into when you’re done, this is one to check out. I enjoy authors who find their universe, and play extensively in it, which has been done here. The other clever thing is that every book can technically be read as a standalone. I don’t know if I’d personally recommend it, as the beginning of this novel relied on previous knowledge, but it was all summed up very well. I didn’t feel lost, I simply wasn’t invested when I wanted to be. The pure joy however, is that these aren’t chunky reads, so you can delve in, and consume these novels quite quickly if you wanted to. I’ll be checking out the rest of the series, and the author’s other work, because I do love being able to hop into a shorter novel. It gets to the crux of the issue quicker, and doesn’t allow for a ton of wandering – two things this author does well.

As I just mentioned, in a round about way, the pacing of this was great. We follow characters as needed, which allows a lot of variety, but things also move as they should. This had flow, and a rhythm I felt kept tempo well. Like I said, it’s obvious the author knows what they’re doing. Plot wise, this took me by surprise. I rarely read blurbs anymore. It’s a habit I find forces the book to tell me what it’s about as I read, rather than going in with an expectation… and one that stemmed from laziness, but it’s worked out well. So when this showed the meat of its plot, I was pleasantly surprised, and found it incredibly interesting. I read with earnest, and a deep desire for the truth to be uncovered. As tidbits were discovered, and the mystery unfurled, I honestly was pleased as punch. I don’t know what I’d expected, but this made me very happy. I read the novel over a day and found I could put it down and pick it back up as I needed. I never felt out of the loop, or as if I’d missed something, which for anyone struggling to focus right now, is an amazing thing. With the weather getting nicer, I’d recommend reading this while the sun is out, but not too hot, with a nice drink and your feet up. This should be enjoyed when you want to be left in a great mood, so however you read it, prepare to leave happy.

All in all, this novel does what it came to do, and does it well. It’s fascinating and feel good, what more could we want?

[Chelle W (teaandplottwists) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cat is loved up and happy, finally with the love of her life. Her Mother, Mary is struggling with the death of her own Mother whilst living in Devon House with only her Granddaughter Kyra for company. When she has a fall over a loose floorboard, and ends up on bedrest for a few days, she doesn’t expect that the accident will uncover secrets that have been hidden for many years…….Not only are the past secrets uncovered, but the result causes realisations for Cat, Mary and Kyra…….

I always enjoy Emily’s stories. They’re fun to read, lighthearted and the perfect read for when you want to curl up and immerse yourself in village life. Chasing Moonbeams in Merriment Bay not only lets us check in with some of the characters from previous books, but offers us an intriguing mystery too. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot around the lost painting, and wanted to find out what had happened as much as the characters!

The story revolves around the Devon family – Mary, Cat and Kyra but also links in with a number of other families in Merriment Bay, most importantly the Raines. It was also good to check in with the Wynter’s and see what they were up to as well. It’s lovely to see some of the characters so happy, and watch others falling in love unexpectedly!

I did find it confusing at times as there are quite a few characters, so I was getting a little muddled at times but I think it’s because I was trying to think back to the other books I’ve read to match it up! It isn’t a massive issue though but just worth noting.

Overall though another lovely, heartwarming novel that will give you a ‘pick me up’ and make you smile! Definitely check out the rest of the series too!

[Grace J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Harvale's books are always worth reading, but now that she has successfully intertwined two series without repetition, I am rather in awe of her talent!

With Cat's love life sorted out, she now has to deal with getting to know her new found siblings. Her daughter Kyra is, however, taking it all in her stride, whilst mother and grandmother Mary is grieving for her own mother. When, purely by chance, a cellar is discovered underneath Devon Villa, a story unfolds which will - in it's own way - touch upon each of their lives in very different ways.

Now that Cat and Amias are - finally - together, both series have melded together incorporating all characters but without repeating the previous stories and it's very cleverly done. There is so much going on! I'm loving all the different threads coming together and making a new tale. This author always produces well-written, entertaining books with fabulous covers and it's a pleasure to have one on my reading list, knowing I'm in for a real treat. Her latest has not only met my expectations it's far surpassed them and I'm happily anticipating where all the characters will head to next. Another terrific, five star read which I'm happy to recommend.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

This was a brilliant read and it had me totally hooked, I LOVE this author’s books and was so pleased to see that she had a new release out!

I really enjoyed the way that the story was told, I thought that the story was well written and it was a highly addictive read.

I did think that the characters were very well developed and I loved being able to catch up with the characters in the series, they really do feel like old friends.

This was a great story that really did have it all! My mum loves this story too and I have told her she needs to bump it up her list and read it ASAP, it is the perfect way to spend a few hours and a complete break from the news and what is going on in the world at the moment.

It is 5 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a fantastic read and it is definitely one that I will be recommending!

[Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am loving the Merriment Bay series and picked this up looking for a bit of escapism and that's exactly what I got. I love how the book picked straight up from the end of the last one during this visit to Cat & Kyra. The Merriment Bay and Wyntersleap series are brimming with fantastic characters that are now starting to cross over more in the storylines.

Emily Harvale has quickly become a goto author for a guaranteed read that will make you smile and lift your spirit. I read this instalment in one sitting as I wanted to know where the story would go next as Cat grows closer to Amias and more secrets that entwine both families are discovered.

I loved this book and can not wait to read the next one as I want to know what will come next for the Wells, Wynter and Devon families!

[Tiziana Langone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yeaay! It isn’t over yet!!!
 
Cat and Amias are finally together and their love is the real thing. Even when she discovers who her real father is, and that she has 2 brothers, Amias stands by her side, being her support.
But when by pure coincidence a painting is found, it’s the start of a new adventure. One that is darker ad with more people involved that just the little happy family…
 
When I saw this new “chapter” was out, I just HAD to read it. The previous parts got me under my skin and I was not ready to say a final goodbye to the Devon women!
 
The beauty of this story is that it picks up right where the previous part ended. And how this entwined with the Wyntersleap series, just “chapeau”!
It was so sweet to see Cat and Amias together. They both deserved their happiness. And I smiled to read how Mary even started to like Amias! Who would have guessed that!
 
But when the painting is discovered, it’s for everyone a mystery how it got there. And when more skeletons come out of the closet, not only the Devon women and Amias wants to know what happened in the past.
 
As this was a bit a different story than what we are used to, I was a bit afraid of the consequences, but knowing the people of Merriment Bay by now, I should have known better.
Yes, it’s all very mysterious, and dark, but each one stayed true to his/her character and the story remained faithful to the charms that we knew previously.

As usual I fell a bit more in love with Merriment Bay and its inhabitants, and even the new people in this story stole a piece of my heart…
And because of the rather open ending (which I DID NOT APPRECIATE at the moment!!! I wanted to know what would happen next!!!) I am already jumping with joy in my seat, looking forward to the next chapter!!!
 
 

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really do enjoy reading Emily Harvale’s books. They are such fast reads and also really enjoyable. Her writing style feels like the characters are talking to you and you are part of the story. Amiss and Cat are finally together. Her mother is grieving the loss of her mother and cat’s grandmother as well as trying to ignore the rumours around what happened with Jeremy (he stole lots of her money etc). She finds a body in her cellar that she didn’t know was there and doesn’t want to go back to the house. Cats daughter kyra (whom I think is really annoying) has a bf but then meets Francis Raine who is 10 years older than her and is a little eccentric in my opinion! Overall it’s a good book just drags out a little.

[Satabdi · Rating 3 out of 5]

For readers who haven’t read the previous book in the Merriment Bay series, the beginning of the story may be confusing. Many residents of Merriment Bay village make an appearance in quick succession, and it takes a while to get the hang of it. (I see that the previous books in the series are available on Kindle Unlimited, so if you have a subscription, you should absolutely check them out.)

Mary Devon’s sharply varying moods, headstrong nature, and snobbishness are immediately apparent, though. It took me some time to understand that Cat Devon was Kyra’s mother and Amias Wells was her boyfriend, with whom she has united after 18 years of pining.

The book starts off with many emotional upheavals — Viola’s death (Mary’s mother), discovery of Viola’s affair, and Mary’s unfortunate relationship. The residents of Wynter House also make an abrupt appearance and the way they meet the Devon women comes across as too much of a coincidence. But the warm manner in which they welcome the women into their family is moving.

When an ancient painting is discovered in a hidden cellar in Devon Villa, things take an exciting turn. The incident becomes the catalyst for Mary to seek a fresh beginning in life. We are also treated to a whole lot of historical details about the old families in Merriment Bay, which I found particularly entertaining.

However, my favorite part of the book was the (sort of) love triangle between Kyra, Lucas, and Francis. Both men conduct themselves in a mature and gentlemanly manner, and I can see why Kyra takes her time to sort out her head. Sadly, the book doesn’t deal with this angle in great detail. The story is open-ended, so I’m hoping the next book in the series will have much more to tell about the relationship between these three characters.

All in all, I feel the book will make much more sense when read in sequence. There’s so much happening from cover to cover that you need to pay close attention to follow the story. The author has a knack for describing relationships between people of all ages–and she sends the message that age is not a limitation for finding love.

(I received an ARC from Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)

[Helen Gaye Brewster · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another book in the Merriment Bay series, which shares some of the same characters as the Wyntersleap series. Emily Harvale’s series are always entertaining, with families playing a starring role. This book continues the story of Cat and her daughter, Kyra, who’ve returned to Cat’s childhood home. Cat is finally making peace with her mother and is happily settling into a relationship with her long-lost love. But, a grizzly discovery in the house Cat’s family has owned for generations leads to a mystery to be solved and a new love interest for Kyra. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book in this series!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how the two series intertwine and characters from one resurface in the other. There is quite a bit of backfilling so if you haven't read the previous books, you can familiarise yourself with who's who.
I really enjoyed the historical aspect of this one with the discovery of a lost painting that leads to repercussions and difficult decisions for both sides of the family. The style is light and easy to read and this one will keep you gripped. A great addition to the series.

[Tracey Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant instalment from Emily! So good to be back in the bay to catch up with all our favourite people!! Always leave us wanting more!
Can’t wait for the next book!!!

[Claire Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

[Raymond Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read from Emily Harvale, what I call easy reading and so realistic, now to search out my next Emily Harvale book.

[Leedemort · Rating 4 out of 5]

really enjoyed the mystery surrounding the painting and their ancestors

looking forward to seeing where this story goes in the next installment