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Emerald Cove #1

Cottage on Oceanview Lane

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When a renowned book editor returns to her roots, she rediscovers her strength & her passion in this heartwarming novel from the author of The Waratah Inn. Sarah Flannigan is moving home to the small, beachside hamlet of Emerald Cove. After years in the city building a career as an editor at one of the top publishing houses in the country, she’s uprooting her life to help her mother run the family cafe after the divorce. Cindy Flannigan never thought she’d find herself single and alone in her sixties, but when her husband runs off with a younger woman, she uncovers secret debts he’s accumulated that will leave her in dire financial straits for the first time in her life. She calls on her eldest child to help and is delightfully surprised when her daughter moves home to the Cove. But concerns for her daughter's future happiness soon mar the reunion. Newlywed Meg has always wanted a family to love, so when she and Brad spend their honeymoon in Hawaii it seems like a dream come true. What happens next will change their lives forever. Visit beautiful Emerald Cove where a delightful ensemble cast of characters will warm your heart as you follow along with the ups and downs of their lives in this small beachside town. This is the first book in a continuing series for fans of Debbie Macomber.

356 pages, Paperback

First published March 10, 2020

2533 people are currently reading
758 people want to read

About the author

Lilly Mirren

38 books312 followers
Lilly Mirren is a USA Today Bestselling women's and contemporary fiction author.

She lives in Brisbane, Australia, with her husband and three children. When she's not writing she's running around after children, bushwalking, or spending time with friends.

"If readers are looking for an author who is the perfect mix of Debbie Macomber and Nora Roberts, Lilly Mirren is it." - InD'tale Magazine

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5 stars
1,555 (45%)
4 stars
1,163 (34%)
3 stars
529 (15%)
2 stars
109 (3%)
1 star
41 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
Profile Image for Joan.
2,208 reviews
September 9, 2021
Too many characters each fighting to be the focus of the novel, too many small 'dramas' that were never actually resolved, too many vague backstories that remained fuzzy. The real problem with jumping from one 'main' character's story arc to another's, is that none of the various characters were truly developed with any real depth. Even the dog had absolutely no personality.

The time line was all over the place - who in their right minds KNOWS there are serious financial difficulties in a business and does NOTHING about it for months? And when the culprit is discovered, - again, nothing is done about it, until its mentioned in almost an afterthought.

The ending wasn't. (An ending I mean.) Yes, one storyline seemed to have been wrapped up (though very uneasily) but nothing else.

So I suppose this is a cliff hanger. Sadly, I don't care enough about any of the characters to have any interest in what happens to them in the next book.
Profile Image for Abigail Burdett.
103 reviews3 followers
June 10, 2024
DNF this had so many plot lines I couldn’t keep up with and there were countless pages dedicated to mundane conversations that added very little to the plot. I was disappointed because the beginning was strong but I got about 2/3 in and the storyline dragged
Profile Image for Jamie Bee.
Author 1 book121 followers
April 26, 2020
Too Many Protagonists

I have not read this author before, but this book almost feels like an experiment. There are actually several storylines going that don't really have much to do with each other. The author (and the reader) might have been better off if each main character had its own complete novel. There is no one protagonist that we are following through a story arc. Except for romances, of course, books typically have a single protagonist. That's what we are used to and feel comfortable with. So this book that follows multiple characters just feels off; can you have an ensemble protagonist? The ending wasn't a true ending. It felt like a pause. Again, we're accustomed to a certain structure in stories: life as it is, inciting incident, rising action, intensifying action, climax, and resolution. This structure was not followed here, so it feels unsatisfying. All in all, I found this to be a disappointing read.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Profile Image for Toula.
2,504 reviews
July 14, 2020
This is my first from both the author and narrator. The author wrote a story that will hook you in . In this audio will get you learning about a few characters and what they go through in their lives .
Sarah is th3 one that is mentioned the most , what she does when her engagement fails , she know she needs to change everything, she decides to leave the city and buy a cottage, Sarah also takes her mother with her .

First time I heard Coralie Bywater. . Her voice is good , her voice fit the story
Profile Image for AnneMarie Brear.
Author 66 books288 followers
August 16, 2023
A good start to a series

An enjoyable and easy to read. A collection of well-rounded characters and lovely descriptions of settings.
Will read book 2.
Profile Image for Lisa.
32 reviews1 follower
June 13, 2024
good read

A lot of characters with different struggles in life. Excited to read the second book.
It’s a book you can read in one day.
87 reviews
February 15, 2024
An enjoyable easy read that helped pass a plane journey and the jet lag day. The end was predictable but some interesting twists along the way.
Profile Image for Colin Bell.
1,066 reviews13 followers
March 13, 2020
Having enjoyed the Waratah Inn series by this author I was looking forward to her new series and haven't been disappointed.
Initially it was a bit difficult to follow as the story flits from one character's viewpoint to another, however these are clearly identified and these threads come together as the story develops. The central character is Sarah, who returns to Emerald Cove when her mother needs help and to help get over her own relationships collapse. The additional threads include those of Meg, whose new husband suffers a catastrophic injury in a surfing accident and Mick, the builder who refurbishes Sarah's cottage and setting the scene for the following books in the series.
A clean romance ideal for reading whilst sitting indoors in the warmth, or even by the pool when summer eventually arrives.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influence my review.
26 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2020
Lilly Mirren has a way of weaving a story that draws you in. You want to know more about the characters. You want them all to have a happy ending. This book leaves just enough unfinished to make you want the next book but also leaves you satisfied.
1,450 reviews12 followers
March 9, 2020
This book is exciting, heartfelt and filled with issues found in the small community of Emerald Cove in the land down-under. There are a lot of moving parts in this story-line with newly weds, hardworking cafe owner, unresolved relationships and how this affects those who live in the area. I loved Oscar and the hard life he lived; I appreciated Mick and his work ethic; and, I cried when Meg shed her tears of sorrow. The writing is excellent and the story itself is absolutely wonderful; however, I can hardly wait to see Book 2 and how a couple situations get resolved as injuries were bleeding and illness was attacking those that were loved in the village. Thanks to the author for the ARC for my enjoyment.
945 reviews9 followers
March 10, 2020
I enjoyed this book about a small town in a beach community--with its gossip, drama, and romance where we read about several women living life--not without its struggles. I loved the strength of these women as they persevered--sometimes with tears, stress, and one even facing bankruptcy. The Australian setting with its descriptions is a fascinating plus! A great beginning to this series, and I can't wait to read the next book! I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
Profile Image for Janet Graham.
2,506 reviews12 followers
March 9, 2020
Women Gaining Control Of Their Lives
This is a wonderful bit of Women's Literature. It tells the story of several women in various stages of regaining control of their lives. It is told in a fashion that leaves plenty of room for more episodes. This book ends with the women all finding strength within themselves and a path towards a better future. It is not a cliffhanger in any manner. I love the way that this author presents a story. It is all so realistic and believable.
Profile Image for Ann.
2,647 reviews3 followers
March 8, 2020
This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. The author makes the book come to life and the people become your friends. Come to Emerald Cove, Australia and forget your troubles for a while! I can't wait for next book in this series. I received an ARC copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Jayne.
125 reviews1 follower
April 9, 2020
Emerald Cove Book 1

I was really disappointed with this book. There was so many characters. None had a complete story from beginning to the end. There was so much potential. I know the author could have done a better job. I wonder if the editing ruined the book. You tell the story within so many pages. It really could have been a better book. I think giving 2stars was being generous.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,428 reviews13 followers
March 22, 2025
Sarah, Cindy, Meg and Rebecca 🌊

🌊Sarah’s just moved back to the seaside hometown she grew up in and swore she’d never return to. But with her father leaving her mother for his secretary when they should be thinking of their retirement, and the breakup of her engagement, book editor Sarah is ready for a change.

🌊Meg’s in Hawaii on honeymoon with her professional surfer husband Brad. When he takes a wave that results in a spinal injury, and it’s clear in the following weeks that Brad will be paralysed after the accident, he pushes Meg away, threatens an annulment.

🌊Rebecca’s making a new life for herself in the seaside hamlet. She’s the rookie in the police station in town and her new boss is suspicious of her past.

🌊Cindy’s husband of decades has left her with a mountain of debt and a business she needs help with. When her daughter Sarah moves back home, she knows she will need to lay all the cards out and let Sarah know what’s been happening.

✏️This sweet story about four women at different life stages, based in the seaside town near Brisbane, Australia, shows their support of each other, holding each other up when they need support. It’s a fast read that takes you from one character’s story to the other, but it’s not hard to follow the thread. The ending finishes a bit abruptly, without much closure.

Read on Kindle
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,423 reviews12 followers
September 15, 2021
What a great new series by a new to me author, I loved it so so much. It's about the people who live in a small seaside town in Australia, each chapter a different person's part of the story, which are all linked to create the whole storyline. Reminds me of the Cedar Cove and Blossom Lane series by the wonderful Debbie Macomber! I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in 2 sittings, I just couldn't put it down.

This 1st book is centred around the Flannagan family, in particular Sarah - eldest daughter, a successful Editor in Sydney who moves back to Emerald Cove, where she was brought up after her relationship broke up and her parents separated. Her Mum - Cindy, who owns and runs the family restaurant in the town, in dire straits and in need of some help. Meg and Brad - local newlyweds who suffer tragedy on their honeymoon and life changes for them, can they weather these changes?

I really cannot wait to read the next book in the series and have already purchased and downloaded books 2-4 and pre-ordered book 5.

An excellent book and series to read, especially if you like clean, easy to read, books that center on human relationships.
Profile Image for Roxx Tarantini.
574 reviews4 followers
April 25, 2020
Cindy's husband of many years has run off with his young assistant.  He's left her drowning in debt and possibly going to lose the café she'd inherited from her parents.  When Sarah receives her mother's call to help her save the café, it comes at an opportune moment.  Sarah herself needs a fresh start.

I thoroughly enjoyed Emerald Cove and the people Mirren has filled the small seaside town with.  You'll be introduced to the main characters while becoming immersed in their stories.  In the skillful way Mirren pulls all the seemingly loose threads together, you'll begin to see how each person has an impact - however small - on the lives of the others.  This is definitely a romance, but there's an edge of mystery as well.  I've already preordered Book Two, and can hardly wait to receive it!

Highly recommend!

[Many thanks to AXP and the author for the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.   This is my honest review, the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.]
Profile Image for Laura Levada.
268 reviews18 followers
June 27, 2020
A ideia base é boa, eu sou fã de livros que falem sobre cidades pequenas, sua população, a área em que vivem, etc... E esse é justamente o caso nessa historia. De quebra as narrativas são centradas nas mulheres, suas necessidades, dificuldades, anseios e conquistas. Mas ai vocês me perguntam, porque só 3 estrelas Laura? Porque todas, todas as mulheres protagonistas do livro me pareceram... catando uma palavra para descrevê-las bem.
Não seria fraca, talvez fragilizadas, passivas, boazinhas demais, sei lá! Mas me incomodou do começo ao fim, a ponto de eu quase, quase mesmo, abandonar o livro, porém a curiosidade de saber o que iria acontecer foi maior. De qualquer maneira o livro termina em aberto, continua em um próximo, que sinceramente não pretendo ler. Eu gostaria muito de poder escrever mais sobre a minha revolta com as atitudes "passivas frustrantes" das protagonistas, mas teria que dar um monte de spoiler então "bico fechado" e encerro por aqui (rindo!)
Profile Image for Patty.
5,137 reviews56 followers
July 15, 2020
Cottage on Oceanview Lane
Emerald Cove, Book 1
By: Lilly Mirren
Narrated by: Coralie Bywater

Cottage on Oceanview Lane is a beautiful written story of three women in different stages of life. From newlyweds to career changes, to divorce, this book has a little bit of everything. Lilly Mirren weaves a story that grabbed my heart.e meet Meg who is recently married, when tragedy strikes. Sarah just broke up with her boyfriend and has been called back home to help her mother with their family cafe, and Cindy, Sarah's mom who has been left by her husband with problems she should not have to face. The problems are realistic and the growth and strength of these women extraordinary. I loved their journey, and hope Mirren continues to update us on them.

This is my first Coralie Bywater listen, and I really enjoyed her. She has a fantastic Australian accent and finds her niche inside each personality of the characters. She was a joy to listen to.
21 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2021
Different type of romance

This book was hard to follow a lot of characters kept popping up. The book starts with Meg who just married to a pro surfer on their honeymoon in Hawaii and he gets severely injured. Then we move on to Sarah who is and editor in Sydney, who leaves her fiance to move back home to help her 60 year mother, who's ex husband takes off with former secretary after borrowing heavily use his wife cafe to secure loans. The cafe is in financial trouble because an employee is still from her. In comes rookie cop Rookie Rebecca who is replacing an officer while on duty. The officer who is her partner is upset because he doesnt what a new partner. During an arrest she is stabbed with a knife by the restaurant employee.......So it continues and the story intro was about a 60 year old women who has to start over. But we spent more time on everyone else issues....you needed a cheat sheet just keep everything straight.
32 reviews
November 29, 2022
This is an easy, cute read that you can finish in a day. You're thrown right into the midst of the action and introduced to 3 main characters/povs within the first few chapters. However the multiple character povs get a bit confusing sometimes. I'd find myself pausing at a chapter trying to remember who the chatacter was.

The story follows Sarah, Cindy - Sarah's mum, Meg and Rebecca on their journeys. In this book, Sarah and Meg's lives intersect, whereas Rebecca doesn't meet them. It feels like they would all meet in future novels.
I love the strong female characters who stick up for what they believe in. They all face different adversities, but hold their own in their unique ways. Sarah realises her relationship isn't what she wants and stands her ground against a pig-headed ex-fiance. Cindy's husband has run off with his secretary, leaving her with financial woes to sort out by herself. Cindy is a strong woman who sets out trying to figure out where some of the financial issues stem from. Meg, seemingly timid, doesn't allow her husband to make a decision regarding their relationship for her. Rebecca is recovering from a personal incident, and works to become stronger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Becky.
176 reviews4 followers
April 14, 2020
I loved getting to know some of the people in Emerald Cove, who interact with each other, and are good friends.
This book is fascinating to me, in the way the author approaches introducing her characters. Each section shows which person it is, and gives the opening circumstances of their lives, within each chapter. It could seem a bit hard to follow, but it isn’t, really. I so enjoyed meeting each one, and seeing what they are dealing with, as well as what friends are willing to help each other out. Sarah and her mother, Cindy, are probably most often mentioned; but there are many others who work and live in the same community and they become friends, even to the reader, fairly quickly. I highly recommend this book, and I also look forward to the next books in the series!
Profile Image for Jocelyne.
4,918 reviews22 followers
July 16, 2020
This is the first book in the Emerald Cove Series, a small town romance. This was my first Lilly Mirren's book. The story is beautifully written, emotional, and heartwarming. In this story, we follow Sarah, Cindy and Meg, three beautiful and smart women, in their journey to happiness. My heart broke for Meg and Brad, her husband. The writing is definitely original, interesting, and captivating, filled with drama, heartbreaking, and heartwarming scenes. I loved it! The supporting characters are great and interesting. Looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series, Seaside Manor Bed and Breakfast. Coralie Bywater did an outstanding job with the narration. She has a beautiful voice, very pleasant to listen to. If you like women's fiction, you will love this one.
41 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2020
This is story of of wanting to go with the familiar to find yourself again. From all the stories, I really felt for Meg. There were moments in which I wished she would leave and not put up with the hurt that her husband was throwing at her. That was painful to read. I am glad that Sarah gave Mick a chance and did not let past experience impact her in that sense. I am curious to see what the future holds for Cindy and I hope she finds her happiness (her daughter Adele was so immature in this book and I was glad she was not mentioned again). I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
645 reviews2 followers
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June 29, 2022
Sarah Flannigan leaves a big city and returns home to Emerald Cove after her father leaves home, leaving her mother in serious financial trouble. Her mother, Cindy, runs the family restaurant, but finds she is losing money and cannot work out why. With the threat of losing her business and home they must work together to to find out the truth. Also featuring is Meg, on holiday in Hawaii with her new husband. Brad is a keen surfer but suffers a devastating accident and it looks like their marriage could be over before it has begun. I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more in the series.
118 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2023
I liked the book and it was an enjoyable read. However, I think the author introduced to many characters and as result did not get to develop them very good. As example one character had a tragic accident and as result had so much anger and bitterness he pushed his young bride away. Without sharing too much, we never see how the anger and bitterness is resolved.

This is not to discourage one from reading the book. It is was worth the time I spent reading it. I would have liked to seen fewer but better developed characters.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
April 2, 2020
Cottage On Oceanview Lane ( Emerald Cove #1 )
By: Lilly Mirren
Cottage On Oceanview Lane is the start and first of a new series Emerald Cove. Women finding their way and control of their lives. This story is a little different than most. A woman moves back home to help her mother. This is a heartwarming story that will touch your heart.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Reggie.
2,888 reviews
July 14, 2020
Beautiful story of three women, who are at different stages of their lives and figuring out their true worth. Follow Meg, newlywed who’s faced with tragedy; Sarah, who’s advanced in her career and just broken up with her longtime bf/fiancé; and Cindy, who’s on the cusp of retirement when betrayal can cost her everything that she’s worked for. Great HEA.
I accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews

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