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Cape Sanctuary #3

The Path to Sunshine Cove

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She knows what's best for everyone but herself...

With a past like hers, Jessica Clayton feels safer in a life spent on the road. She's made a career out of helping others downsize--because she's learned the hard way that the less "stuff," the better, a policy she applies equally to her relationships. But a new client is taking Jess back to Cape Sanctuary, a town she once called home...and that her little sister, Rachel, still does. The years apart haven't made a dent in the guilt Jess still carries after a handgun took the lives of both their parents and changed everything between them.

While Jess couldn't wait to put the miles between her and Cape Sanctuary, Rachel put down roots, content for the world--and her sister--to think she has a picture-perfect life. But with the demands of her youngest child's disability, Rachel's marriage has begun to fray at the seams. She needs her sister now more than ever, yet she's learned from painful experience that Jessica doesn't do family, and she shouldn't count on her now.

Against her judgment, Jess finds herself becoming attached--to her sister and her family, even to her client's interfering son, Nate--and it's time to put everything on the line. Does she continue running from her painful past, or stay put and make room for the love and joy that come along with it?

416 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2021

457 people are currently reading
7088 people want to read

About the author

RaeAnne Thayne

311 books3,849 followers
I'm not one of those people who knew from birth she was destined to become a writer. I always loved to read and throughout my childhood I could usually be found with a book in my hands. To the disgust of my friends, I even enjoyed creative writing assignments that made them all groan. But I had other dreams besides writing. I wanted to be an actress or a teacher or a lawyer.

Life took a different turn for me, though, when my mother made me take a journalism elective in high school (thanks, Mom!). I knew the first day that this was where I belonged.

After I graduated from college in journalism, I took a job at the local daily newspaper and I reveled in the challenge and the diversity of it. One day I could be interviewing the latest country music star, the next day I was writing about local motorcycle gangs or interviewing an award-winning scientist.

Through it all -- through the natural progression of my career from reporter to editor -- I wrote stories in my head. Not just any stories, either, but romances, the kind of books I have devoured since junior high school, with tales about real people going through the trials and tribulations of life until they find deep and lasting love.

I had no idea how to put these people on paper, but knew I had to try -- their stories were too compelling for me to ignore. I sold my first book in 1995 and now, more than 30 books later, I've come to love everything about writing, from the click of the computer keys under my fingers to the "that's-it!" feeling I get when a story is flowing.

I write full-time now (well, as full-time as I can manage juggling my kids!) amid the raw beauty of the northern Utah mountains.

Even though I might not have dreamed of being a writer when I was younger, now I simply can't imagine my life any other way.

I love to hear from readers. You can reach me at my email address, raeannethayne@gmail.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 510 reviews
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,457 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2022
This is a Women's Fiction/Romance/Chick-Lit, and this is the second book in the Cape Sanctuary series. I have not read the first book in this series, but I did not feel lost at anytime while reading this book. We follow Jessica who grow up in foster care and her sister that she is no longer close to lives near her new job. Her sister has a son who was just diagnosis with Autism. Her sister is having trouble dealing with his new diagnosis. I feel this book does a good job showing how hard it is right after you get told your kid as Autism. The romance was in the background of this book. I enjoyed all the characters in this book. I do feel that the middle moved a little bit slower then I like. The storyline was good, and it kept you pulled into the book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin) or author (RaeAnne Thayne) via NetGalley, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,249 reviews611 followers
March 26, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove by RaeAnne Thayne is such a heartbreaker of a book. Now don't think this is a book about doom and gloom, because why would the cover be so beautiful if it were? No, this novel is heartbreakingly beautiful in the best way. The romance was quick but adorable, the characters were relatable and real, and I had tears in my eyes both in happiness and in sadness multiple times. I loved how witty it was, but it also tackles some incredibly hard subjects, and they were done in a very caring and complete way. I loved the mystery surrounding Jess and her sister's past, and I never in a million years would have figured out how that would end. It was really interesting to see how the sister's relationship progresses throughout the novel, and even though there is romance at its core, this is definitely a book about family and sisters as well.

I mistakenly thought The Sea Glass Cottage was book 1 to the Cape Sanctuary series with this being book 2 (thanks Goodreads), but this is actually book 3 with The Sea Glass Cottage being book 2. However, I was not lost while reading this, and all books are perfect as standalones. That being said, I will definitely be reading the real book 1 now, The Cliff House. I fell even deeper in love with Thayne's writing while reading The Path to Sunshine Cove, and it was such a quick and emotional read. There was not a character to be found that I didn't like, and I found myself not wanting to put it down. Highly recommend it to romance and women's fiction fans alike.

Thank you to the publisher, Get Red PR, and Let’s Talk Books Promo for my free copy. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,095 reviews15.7k followers
April 2, 2021
A gorgeous feel good story filled with emotion and charm. RaeAnne Thayne’s engaging storytelling put a big smile on my face. It is SO nice to read a book filled with characters that you truly like. Jess lives a rambling life as the co-owner of a business that helps people especially the elderly declutter and downsize. Her latest job is in Cape Sanctuary a small town on the Northern Californian coast and the home of her younger sister Rachel. Jess is hoping while in town she will be able to reconnect with her sister as well as her nieces and nephew. Rachel is a stay at home mom raising her three young children one who is autistic. Rachel is also an influencer and constantly battling the need to be perfect and reality.

This Book had some sweet romance in it but the romance really took backseat to the other fabulous storylines. I really enjoyed the Sister relationship between Jess and Rachel and was curious as to how things got so strained between them. I also really enjoyed Nate(The love interest) navigating the relationship with his teenage daughter. Also thought the story did a wonderful and realistic job with the marriage relationship between Rachel and Cody. The additional stress on the couple dealing with an autistic child seemed extremely authentic. And I haven’t even mentioned Eleanor the character who brought all these characters together, loved her. Wow there was a lot packed into this little gem of a book that is a CAN’T MISS!

This book in emojis 🏖 🐚 🐶 🏄🏻‍♀️ 🚲

*** Big thank you to HQN for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Profile Image for Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee.
1,112 reviews267 followers
March 29, 2021
This is book 3 in the "Cape Sanctuary" series and the first one I've read! I do not feel like I was missing anything or feel lost at all. This was a really enjoyable book about sisters, love, and family bonds. It gave me all the feels...very emotional....happy and sad tears! Jess was separated from her sister in her teens, and raised In foster care. She is now a professional organizer, where she helps people reorganize their homes. She gets a job for 2 weeks in Sunshine Cove, which is very close to where her sister Rachel lives. Rachel has a son, and is struggling with his autism diagnosis. The 2 sisters want to be close again, and this may just be the time. Jess also has a love interest in her clients son Nate. He's a single father to a 13 year old girl.

I loved the ocean setting of Sunshine Cove and I really enjoyed the characters as well. I loved seeing them all grow through their troubles with each other. I love family drama, which I've mentioned before and this was right up my alley! I definitely recommend you check out this one! And now I will be reading the first 2 in the series!

Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours @harlequinbooks @netgalley and @raeannethayne for the gifted copy
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,831 reviews463 followers
March 15, 2021
Aww super sweet. Great ending!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The story is a unique look at the effects of finding your place in the world while trying to heal yourself from the effects of a poor upbringing. This author pulls out all of the stops when it comes to bringing in the emotion and creating the perfect essence of building those family ties.

I swore that I had read a book by Thayne before. After all, she has published a massive amount of books. However, this is the first one as far as I can tell. This story is such a treat. I was enamored by her descriptions of the perfect home and town. I so just want to pack up and move there!

Her characters are strong and likeable and you can see yourself in so many of the situations! And Nate? OMG What an awesome balance for Jess in both strength and compassion. I loved the slow burn that builds along with the careful development of the family connection from his family.

Thayne has crafted a delightful yet compassionate story full of family trials and tribulations, small town character, and sweet love, all tied up in a bow. She gets under your skin with her emotional storytelling that cracks your heart just a bit. Such a great find in this story! Definitely reading her again!

** Copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-path-to-...
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,573 reviews1,695 followers
May 25, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove by RaeAnne Thayne is listed as the second book of the contemporary romance Cape Sanctuary series. However,The Cliff House, which was published first, is also set in the same setting of Cape Sanctuary and that is the common theme among the series. Each of the books have different main characters in them so they all can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so regardless of where they are listed or not listed in the series.

This time in The Path to Sunshine Cove Jessica Clayton has taken a job in the small town and plans to use the time there to visit with her sister, Rachel. Rachel and Jess grew up in Cape Sanctuary but after the death of their parents Jess couldn’t leave fast enough while Rachel found herself taken in by a loving family and eventually put down roots in the small town by starting a family of her own.

Jess knows that she has built a shell around herself keeping people at a distance and not getting close to anyone but she wants to amend that with Rachel. Rachel though is struggling with her own issues with her family and Jess doesn’t know how to deal with that. There’s also Nate, Jess’s clients son who just happens to keep crossing Jess’s path but will she allow him into her heart and give her a reason to stop running.

Having read both The Path to Sunshine Cove and The Sea Glass Cottage that are set in Cape Sanctuary I can definitively say they both have a wonderful setting and also reiterate that these work wonderfully as standalone novels. The characters in The Path to Sunshine Cove were just wonderful again with the story pulling at my heartstrings all throughout. I have a certain affinity to autistic characters in stories too so Rachel’s struggle with coping with her son engrossed me just as much as Jess learning not to push others away. Definitely a lovely read all around.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Profile Image for "Avonna.
1,462 reviews589 followers
April 7, 2021
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

THE PATH TO SUNSHINE COVE (Cape Sanctuary Book #2) by RaeAnne Thayne is a wonderful Women’s fiction story featuring two sisters who have dealt emotionally with their shared tragic past differently. This story also includes a budding romance and a HEA. Even though this is the second book in the Cape Sanctuary series, it stands completely on its own.

Jessica Clayton has made a career out of helping people downsize. She feels comfortable in her own downsized, nomadic life with no permanent relationships other than her best friend and co-owner of their company.

Jess has accepted a job in Cape Sanctuary for a few weeks to be able to visit her little sister, Rachel and her family. Their relationship has been strained and she wants to get back to their close childhood friendship, but since the tragic event that changed their lives, she is afraid to open herself up possibly being hurt again.

Rachel put down roots in Cape Sanctuary with a loving foster family and has been happily married with children, or so it seems. With her youngest diagnosed with autism and her wanting to have everything in control and perfect, her happy life and marriage is disintegrating. She needs Jess’ help, but Jess does not do permanent.

Both sisters need each other more than ever. Can Jess and Rachel come together and move on from the past which has overshadowed the decisions in their lives?

I loved the characters in this story. I had so much empathy for Jess and when I found out why she joined the Army, I was in tears and then completely understood why she was so blocked off from attachments. I was annoyed at first with Rachel and her perfection, but as the story progresses you realize why and it completely changed my first feelings. Nate, who is the son of the owner of the home Jess is decluttering, is the perfect romantic interest for her. He is understanding of Jess’ background and feelings and does not push, but is always there to listen and Jess does offer comfort when he needs it even as she fights it. There are no sex scenes in this story, just a budding romance which is elaborated on in the epilogue. All the characters in this story are written with a realism that jumps off the page and into your heart. The descriptions of Cape Sanctuary make me want to visit and just watch the sun set over the ocean.

I highly recommend this story full of love, understanding, forgiveness and family.
Profile Image for Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader.
1,685 reviews206 followers
April 4, 2021
Thayne writes the sweetest romances and always makes me smile. Life isn't always reaching a single, prefect destination. But this book is a great getaway for a few hours.
I would love to go to Cape Sanctuary and stay for a few weeks.
Such wonderfully rounded characters and an unforgettable ending.
4 stars and I recommend this one for sure.
Profile Image for Meagan (Meagansbookclub).
779 reviews7,218 followers
July 28, 2021
Classic RaeAnne!

The characters in this story were so believable and I am so sad I have to leave them. Nate and Jess had incredible chemistry and the story flowed perfectly from the POV of Nate, Jess, and Rachel (Jess’ sister). I’m always glad to have picked up a RaeAnne book.
Profile Image for Kathryn.
2,060 reviews281 followers
February 17, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove by RaeAnne Thayne takes us to a beautiful spot in the American North West and a gorgeous spot on the coast. Here we have a house in need of decluttering, well so Eleanor the seventy year old owner declares.

Jess has a business that declutters. She arrives in her Airstream for the work to begin.  At first Nate's son is a little anti when he finds a strange Airstream parked beside his mother's house, but soon comes around. Living in Cape Sanctuary is also Jess's sister Rachel. The women were once very close but now the relationship is strained. As well Rachel's life all round seems strained - what is going on there? The two women have a past that is tough and haunts their lives still.

Nate has a thirteen year old daughter, Sophie who at the moment is rather put out by her Dad and is rather short and even at times surly with him. According to her it's his fault.

So lots of relationships that seem to be in crisis. But of course when we face into a crisis there are always two paths we can take at least. What will Rachel and Jess do about each other? Will Nate and Jess embrace their growing attraction for each other? Oh the choices!

This a sweet, gentle story that touched me the more I read and really enjoyed the way things worked out. 
Profile Image for ♥Rachel♥.
2,271 reviews923 followers
March 30, 2021
Jess rarely spends more than a few weeks in any place, going from job to job as a clean-up/declutter guru for her business, Transitions. This is just the way she likes it. No close, long-term attachments that can drag you down and damage. However, she’s taken on a job in Cape Sanctuary, her younger sister Rachel’s hometown because she sensed an undercurrent of stress coming from her. It’s been a long time since the two have been close, but maybe she can help and close some of the distance between them.

Rachel for her part is stressed out. Trying to emulate the perfect housewife and mother as an influencer has become just about impossible with her three-year-old Silas throwing tantrums daily. Finding out he’s on the spectrum wasn’t a shock, but it’s disheartening to feel so helpless as Silas becomes frustrated and at times out of control. It’s definitely put a strain her marriage, and Rachel feels like she’s drowning under the pressure. Having her older sister visit only adds to the stress, as their relationship has been strained for many years.

Can these two sort out their problems and find happiness? Jess and Rachel each faced relatable, realistic problems, that made it easy for me to put myself in their shoes and root for a solution, a HEA for both. There’s not one, but two romances here: Rachel and her high-school sweetheart hubby facing the challenges dealing with a special needs child and Jess finding a man in Cape Sanctuary when she had no plans on ever settling down. I loved both romances and each were low on drama. I appreciated that the conflict made sense and didn’t drag on and on.

Loved the Northern California coastal setting that came to life with Ms. Thayne’s beautiful descriptions! It’s such a gorgeous area, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean that take your breath away! There’s a spot I visit at least yearly, close to the Oregon border that I pictured in my mind as I read. Now I want to go again!

The Path to Sunshine Cove
was such a lovely, feel-good kind of romance that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys an uplifting story!

A copy was kindly provided by HQN Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heidi.
Author 45 books501 followers
January 23, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove offers everything I look for and expect when I read RaeAnne Thayne's books. Nate is a swoon-worthy hero, Cape Sanctuary is a gorgeous setting, and the concept of a professional organizer towing her own Airstream was really fun. As is often the case with Thayne's novels, interesting and likeable characters all pulled me in from the beginning. Jess, the heroine, is fierce and resilient yet also has a difficult past. The push-pull between Jess and Nate compelled me to keep reading, and I found all the characters' journeys enjoyable and plausible.
The secondary story arc featuring Jess's sister Rachel and her family was also well done.
This is an uplifting, satisfying read for fans of both romance and women's fiction.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.
Profile Image for Lorilin.
761 reviews232 followers
April 16, 2021
This was a very lighthearted read. Definitely some Hallmark channel vibes going on, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need in your life (and I’m not ashamed to admit it). The story tackles love after loss, tense family relationships, parenting newborns, parenting tweens, parenting autistic children, aging parents, and sick family members. You’d think, with all that, the book would be a downer. But it isn’t. The story stays positive and moves along quickly. The ending was a bit predictable, but I didn’t mind it. The Path to Sunshine Cove is a perfect feel-good book for a quiet spring day.
Profile Image for Gale.
1,967 reviews22 followers
December 26, 2020
It’s not often that I read a book and love ALL the characters but I did In The Path To Sunshine Cove. Jessica Clayton is a great character – she is carrying much hurt from her past with her every single day. She even lives her life ‘on the road’, so to speak, so that she never has to stay in one place and deal with her issues. A BIG issue for her is her sister, Rachel. On the surface, these two are so very different but…are they really? Jessica thinks Rachel has it all: a wonderful husband, a great family, a perfect life. But Rachel thinks having a smidge of the freedom that Jessica does would be wonderful. There were times **I** wanted to kidnap her husband as he really was a great guy. Ms. Thayne deals with some real-life family issues for Rachel but IMHO, it is done with love and care. Read the story; the author weaves a great tale.

And then there is Nate Whitaker, his daughter Sophie, and his mother Eleanor. Nate has his own issues with every day life and he is just trying to survive his daughter’s teenage years. If you have ever read a story with a teen or have raised one, then some of these issues will make you smile. Mostly, though, the smiles will be because it isn’t YOU who has to deal. I really felt for the guy! And his mother is a hoot, too, and plays a big part of Jess’s life as well as her son Nate’s and her granddaughter’s.

Jessica and Nate really find each other at the perfect time in their lives. Of course, THEY don’t think so but read how they just fit into each other’s every day and you will understand how I just fell in love with them.

It’s such a great story – I was lost in it from the very start. Really enjoyed it, from Jess’s vintage airstream to the sisters’ (sometimes struggling) bond to the wonderful ‘boys’ (as in Nate and Cody; such warm, loving characters) to the kids (Sophie, Grace, Ava, and Silas). Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Shelley Lawrence.
2,049 reviews102 followers
March 12, 2021
3.5 stars
The Path To Sunshine Cove, by RaeAnne Thayne, is a compelling women’s fiction novel that will warm your heart. It’s full of weighty issues dealing with abandonment, death of a parent, perfectionism, domestic abuse, marriage troubles, the diagnosis of Autism, and more. Amongst these tough topics, Thayne lightens the load with just the right amount of sweet romance between a single father to a newly turned teen and an itinerant, former military woman with a budding business, but troubled past. Add in a second chance romance for a troubled marriage, a charming grandmother and feisty teen, alongside a beautiful house on the coast and you’ve got a hit.

The characters are likable, the relationship dynamics are realistic, and the evolution throughout the plot is inspiring, yet credible.

The concept of living in an Airstream, traveling around the country declutting people’s houses is interesting and the resolution to the story is satisfying. I did, admittedly get a bit bored in parts because it’s quite a long book. It’s also partially personal, because I’m not a huge romance reader, so some sections just weren’t of interest to me, where they would be to others.

All-in-all, The Path to Sunshine Cover is a feel-good, second story in the Cape Sanctuary series.

Thank you to Netgalley and Lori Edelman for the free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kris (My Novelesque Life).
4,693 reviews209 followers
March 24, 2021
RATING: 2.5 STARS
2021; Mira/Harlequin

I'm sorry but my review will be short for this one...or shorter than usual. There was nothing wrong with this novel, but it lacked sparks. The main love story lacked the chemistry between the two, and also seemed a bit rushed. The two family stories also didn't really get exciting. There was great potential, but then it just dropped off. I liked the first book a lot more than this one, so had to rate this one right in the middle with 2.5, rounded up to 3, stars.

***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook/audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
Profile Image for Amy.
2,644 reviews2,022 followers
March 29, 2021
4.5/5

RaeAnne Thayne is my go to author when I want a sweet, comforting read full of heartfelt moments, lovely characters and a beautiful setting. I know exactly what kind of story I’ll be getting when I dive into one of her books and they never disappoint.

This one follows Jess as she arrives in the town of Cape Sanctuary to work with a new client. Her sister Rachel lives in town and she’s hoping that besides helping Eleanor clean out her house, she’ll also be able to reconnect with her sister after years of a strained relationship. You hear from both sisters viewpoints as well as from Nate, Eleanor’s son and I always enjoy multiple perspectives. One of the things that I love the most about the authors books is that you get a romantic storyline as well as something additional plot wise and this was no exception. There’s a budding romance between Jess and Nate but there’s also a lot going on between the sisters both together and separately. Rachel has three kids, two girls and then a boy and she’s also struggling with her sons recent autism diagnosis, so I definitely had so much in common with her. I found myself relating to her quite a bit as she dealt with her emotions, fears and concerns surround her sons future and I thought the author did a great job at exploring the emotions special needs parents face. Overall another really lovely book from one of my faves ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Profile Image for Lynne Evans.
269 reviews24 followers
January 9, 2021
Jess and Rachel are sisters who need to find their way back to each other. Throw in a hunky guy, a sassy teen, cute kids and a great house by the ocean and what a book. RaeAnne Thayne does it again.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,807 reviews126 followers
March 10, 2021
Good book about the complications of family life and relationships told from the viewpoints of three people. I enjoyed the realism of their struggles with their pasts, the effects of those pasts on the present, and the desire to change the future.

Jess and Rachel are sisters whose traumatic childhoods affected them both. As children, they were very close, but the effects of their parents’ deaths drove a wedge between them. Though they see each other occasionally, their meetings are always strained. Neither one knows how to fix it.

Jess is independent, self-contained, and very much a loner. Her business, Transitions, involves going to a client’s home, helping them clear things out, then moving on to the next job. She doesn’t spend enough time with anyone to form a relationship, and that suits her fine. She tells herself she is too busy for a man in her life. In reality, her parents’ marriage put her entirely off the idea of love. Her father was a controlling bully, and her mother believed he could do no wrong. Jess misses the close relationship she had with Rachel and hopes she can use this time in Cape Sanctuary to mend fences.

Rachel settled down in Cape Sanctuary, marrying her high school sweetheart, Cody. They have three children, the youngest recently diagnosed with autism. Rachel is very active on social media, where she has a large following, but the perfect life she portrays online isn’t so perfect in real life. Her quest for perfection has put a strain on her marriage and driven her close to a nervous breakdown. Rachel wants her old relationship with Jess back but has no confidence that it will actually happen.

Nate is the son of Jess’s newest client, Eleanor, and the single father of thirteen-year-old Sophie. He is very protective of his mother, who is still grieving his father’s death, and is suspicious of Jess when she arrives. He has his hands full with his construction business and Sophie’s newly acquired teenage attitude and has put any romantic relationships on the back burner for the foreseeable future.

I enjoyed seeing the various characters establish or re-establish connections with those they love. There are many past hurts, fears, and desires that need to be faced before our characters can move on to the happiness they each long for. Rachel struck me as the one who is most overwhelmed. The effect of her childhood on her is the need for everything to be perfect. Her highly popular social media account portrays a family far from reality, and she struggles to reconcile the two. In real life, she deals with a husband who works long hours, a two-year-old newly diagnosed as autistic, and a refusal to believe that it is okay to ask for help. That attitude puts a strain on her marriage, and she seems unable to change. Jess’s arrival is just one more thing for her to deal with. I admit there were times I wanted to shake her. Her husband was great, but he couldn’t do anything right in her eyes. Though tentative in her attempts at first, I liked how Jess saw Rachel’s struggles and tried to help. Though things were a little better, it took an explosive confrontation between the two to knock down the walls that kept them apart and finally start the healing process. Admitting she needs help also went a long way toward helping Rachel and Cody reconnect. I loved Jess’s suggestion at the end and how Rachel ran with it.

I liked Jess. It is evident from the start that she loves her job and helping people streamline their lives. Though she usually keeps a professional distance between herself and her clients, it’s clear that her relationship with Eleanor is different from the start. I loved how Eleanor refused to be business-only and sucked Jess right into the family. Jess was somewhat unnerved by the emotions that working with Eleanor stirred up, as she wasn’t accustomed to caring that way for her clients. I loved her kindness and patience as they worked their way through Eleanor’s treasures and memories of her husband, Jack. At the end, a crisis with Eleanor makes Jess realize that she’s risked more with this family than anyone else in many years.

Then there’s Nate. Once he got past his suspicions about Jess, he couldn’t deny the effect she had on him. I loved watching them spend time together, discovering how easy it is to talk to each other. Sparks of attraction are there also, but with Jess’s stay being temporary, they are reluctant to pursue it. Well, Jess is reluctant. The feelings he stirs in her scare her, as she has visions of turning into her mother. I ached for them both when Jess finishes the job because Nate wants her to stay, and Jess wants to, also, but doesn’t trust herself. I loved the advice she got and what she did with it. The epilogue was terrific and showed that anything was possible with love.

#netgalley
Profile Image for Cyndi Becker.
1,385 reviews12 followers
March 23, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove, the second book in the Cape Sanctuary series, is no less delightful than The Sea Glass Cottage. Once again, the story is multigenerational and explores the ties that bind family members. Even the ones that divide. Centered on sisters Jess Clayton and Rachel McBride, and upon the Whitakers, recently widowed Eleanor, her son Nate, and his daughter Sophie. The dynamics between family members, on the whole, are simply complicated. But they are driven by the love they have for each other.

The story kicks off with Jess' return to Cape Sanctuary to work with Eleanor Whitaker to help her declutter her house, the same one Nate and his daughter live next to and one they frequent daily. Things start out a bit rough, but Nate moves past his suspicious nature and comes to accept, and feel something more for Jess. Jess had accepted the job knowing it would give her a chance to spend time with her sister, who is the one person who seems so put together but is clearly feeling overwhelmed by her role as a mother, a wife, and her enviable position as an Instagram influencer.

I really enjoyed all of the characters and found myself very invested in the story, their decisions, and the effects on each other. The discord between the sisters is palpable as they both made assumptions about each other and their pasts. They need a reboot and to embrace a friendship they haven't had a chance to build, with Jess always on the move. Meanwhile Eleanor is working through her grief, failing health, and desperately wants for her son to find happiness and love again. It's a bit of a battle, but he works hard to win Jess over, which does much to improve the relationship he has with Sophie.

Thayne delivers a very heartwarming novel, with characters that made me so happy to get to know. I happily recommend this wonderfully tender family centric story. 5 Stars!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Randi (randi_reads).
1,536 reviews349 followers
March 27, 2021
This is my first book by RaeAnne Thayne and I really enjoyed it. It was a wholesome, sweet read with a lot of heart. I had no idea this was third in a series when I started it and it had no effect on my enjoyment at all. It is a wonderful standalone novel!

Jess and Rachel are sisters, but are not close anymore. They were separated as teenagers when their parents died. Jess is in Cape Sanctuary for her job, which is where Rachel lives, and plans to reconnect with her. Easier said than done. Rachel has her own issues with trying to be perfect, without asking for help, in all aspects of her life.

Jess is in town on a job to declutter Eleanor Whitaker's home after her husband's death six months prior. Her relationship with Eleanor is just so sweet. She is also quick to bond with Eleanor's son, Nate, and his daughter, Sophie.

I really enjoyed this wonderful novel about finding your family again and realizing that the family you are born into does not always predetermine your fate.

Thank you to GetRed PR, Harlequin Books and the author for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.

Profile Image for Gail.
1,544 reviews
March 19, 2021
First off I love the cover. It is so inviting.
I hated to see the story end. I loved every minute of it and very hard to put down. Very well written with amazing characters that make you feel like part of the story. A story about family and getting over the past, second chances and taking a chance on love.

I received a copy of the book for my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Kaye.
4,346 reviews71 followers
December 18, 2020
I enjoyed this clean romance/woman's fiction. Jessica and her sister Rachel survived a rough childhood and were eventually separated in their teens. Now Rachel is married and struggling. She has three children with the youngest recently diagnosed on the autistic spectrum. Jessica takes a job for two weeks that puts her in Cape Sanctuary where Rachel lives. She has served in the army and now runs a business helping people clean out and dejunk their homes. I would add I might consider paying someone to do that for me. Jessica and Rachel have stayed in contact but Jess would like them to be closer like they once were. Nate is the client's son. He is a single father of a 13 year old and is drawn to Jess. Neither wants a fling but there is attraction.

Each chapter is told from one of the points of view of the three main characters. It is a gentle story covering only a two week time span. Each person is dealing with things in their life. In a lot of ways it works and I could see their problems. Jess struggles with family and friendship bonds, Rachel is frustrated when she is anything less than perfect. I had a harder time seeing and believing the resolutions. It was more a potential HEA for me. I wanted the sisters to really talk and discuss their past not just plan a future trip. The romance was more complete particularly with the epilogue. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for an ARC ebook in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Margaret.
432 reviews12 followers
December 9, 2020
Jess is one tough cookie. She survived a traumatic childhood with her sister - her BFF until she wasn't. Since then, Jess has been on her own. No strings or ties except for her business partner, Yvette, who she came to know during the time they were both in the military. Their business, Transitions, helps older folks declutter and clean out their homes whether they're downsizing or planning for the future; she loves what she does and feels it's an important way to help people as they get older. She is not looking for any attachments and keeps her clients on a professional level until Eleanor.
Rachel, Jess' sister, lives in the same town as Eleanor and is one of the reasons Jess accepted the job to help Eleanor clean out her home after her husband's death nearly 6 months before. Jess would love to reconnect with Rachel and spend time with Rachel and Cody's 3 children, one of whom was recently diagnosed with a life-changing disability.
Jess is unprepared for the emotions that spring up over the several weeks she's there to help Eleanor and reconnect with Rachel.
This story is a poignant, insightful look at the hard task of regaining trust and the need to connect with others. The characters are so believable and true. I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Sarah Dressler.
858 reviews38 followers
March 23, 2021
What an absolutely charming little novel!

I had no idea this was the second book in a series, and this played no impact on me as a read, so in other words, it could certainly function as a standalone novel. Feel free to dive right in!

RaeAnne Thayne worked wonders with sneaking little bits of curiosity into the storyline between Jess and Rachel- so much so it made me continue reading and reading, chapter after chapter, until I was finished in one sitting!

The connection that Jess makes with Nate's mother, the client that brings Jess to Cape Sanctuary is just about as beautiful as a California sunset.

Of course Jess's work with Nate's daughter, and her own nieces and nephews just seal the deal for this charming novel!

I highly recommend it if you are looking for that springy, sweet cheerful, make you feel like there's good in the world novel.
Profile Image for Gail.
1,544 reviews
May 3, 2021
A heartwarming story that will make you laugh and cry. I enjoyed every minute of it.

I received a copy of the book from the author for my honest and voluntary review.
1,198 reviews39 followers
April 3, 2021
The Path to Sunshine Cove fills your beach loving heart right from the start with this adorable title! I mean look at that cover, swoon worthy! With all of these travel restrictions in place many of us will not get to dip our toes in the sand, so why not read a book that will take us on a little vacation to the cove!
Eleanor knows it’s time to go through her home and let go of items she’s been holding onto too tightly. Clothes, books, furniture is all she has left of her soulmate, but she realizes all she needs is her memories and must call in help to purge a lifetime of “stuff”.
Jessica works for a company called Transitions that helps people make the hard decisions on what to keep, donate, and toss when they are downsizing. Jessica travels all over in her trailer setting up her home for a few days to help families and then move on to the next. The work is hard and at times emotional, but moving every few days helps her to stay disconnected, as she prefers all her relationships to be. Living in foster care as a child and going on to serve in the military she’s always pushed her feelings down and learned to rely only on herself.
When a job comes up in a little sea side town she’s excited because this job will give her time to spend with her sister Rachel whom she hasn’t seen in years. She has really bonded with sweet Eleanor over the phone and is looking forward to helping her clean her home one room at a time, and spend time with her nieces and nephew. Her sister seems very overwhelmed and unhappy and Jessica would love to help out a little while in town.
What she doesn’t expect upon her arrival is how gorgeous Sunshine Cove is. From her trailer she can see the ocean, hear its crashing waves, and smell the salty air. All is right with the world until Eleanor’s son Nate comes over treating her like a criminal or some kind of opportunistic person who takes advantage of the elderly! Apparently Eleanor hasn’t told her son the news that she’s ready to part with his fathers items and maybe even sell his childhood home!
So many changes to come for Eleanor and a Jessica, you’ll need to read the book to find out for yourself!
Profile Image for Eve.
779 reviews52 followers
May 5, 2021
Small Town Fiction / Contemporary Romance
Publication date : March 30, 2021

Started off well but at some point I got tired of constantly changing POVs. Just when I get in the head of one character, author switch to someone else, and distrupts the flow.
I didn't really feel the chemistry and sizzzle between Jess and Nate. It was obvious that they will hook up but it sounded more like a convenience than any real and deep feelings.
Jess's younger sister Rachel is an up-and-coming social media influencer, and she has a beautiful home and family. But there’s trouble behind the scenes - her youngest child got an autism diagnosis and this has caused lots of stress in their lives. But Rachel is so used to keeping up perfect fascade, that she doesn't want anyone's help.

The characters lacked depth and there's not much growth. Yes, by the end they can magically solve their issues but somehow it was superficial and flat. This story has many serious topics but it lack necessary depth, emotions and the writing could have been much better. I dislike the way author is supplying information by simply stating it. Please show, don't tell! Ahh, I guess Susan Elizabeth Phillips have spoiled me with her wonderful stories and characters, so other romance writers pale in comparison.

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Profile Image for Barbara Powell.
1,135 reviews66 followers
March 19, 2021
This is the second book in the series, but I don’t feel like I was missing anything not having read the first one, so I think it stands alone just fine.
It follows Jess, whose a strong independent woman who grew up in foster care after trauma took her parents and her sister was fostered by a loving family. Her sister is highly determined to make her life Instagram perfect, even though she has a insanely busy husband, 2 daughters and a son whose just gotten diagnosed on the Spectrum.
Jess has a business that helps people clear out the clutter in their homes, and she gets a job in her sisters home town, so she takes it in hopes that she can spend more time with her and the kids, and in the process help strengthen their relationship again. As well, she bonds with the woman who she is working with and her son and granddaughter.
This is a contemporary woman/chick lit type of book with family drama and a sweet love story with very mild steam. It was kinda cool that when she retired from the military she got an airstream to live in so she could travel the country for her job. I liked how strong and independent both Jess and her sister were, but they were able to break down each other’s walls. Makes you feel good when reading it. It would make a great beach read.
Publication date: March 30, 2021
Thanks to Berkeley publishing and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
Profile Image for Booksandcoffeemx.
2,468 reviews126 followers
March 29, 2021
I’m beyond excited to be part of the Blog Tour for The Path to Sunshine Cove by RaeAnne Thayne .

Heartwarming, beautifully written and imposible to put down.
I fell in love with this story and the characters since the first chapters.
The setting was breathtakingly beautiful, I just wish I could visit Sunshine Cove.
And the best part, I’m discovering a new author with a long backlist, what more can you ask?

Thank you Let’s Talk Book Promo , @getredprbooks and Harlequin for this eARC.
Thank you RaeAnne Thayne for sharing your time with us to talk about your book.

This fantastic story releases tomorrow, March 30.
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