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Barefoot on the Beach
Renee Clarke is perfectly happy just the way she is… Renee may be thrilled to be planning her sister’s wedding, but after witnessing her mother’s two failed marriages, she has always vowed that she is better off on her own.
But when Renee discovers that Luc Hardy has moved next door, her world is knocked off kilter. Luc was her whirlwind summer romance as a teen and, more importantly, her first love. Now he’s back in West Cove, looking more handsome than ever.
There is no escaping the romance in the air this summer. With the wedding planning in full swing, Renee begins to believe that she might be able to put her childhood reservations about marriage aside. Yet when her mother arrives, she stirs a torrent of emotions in Renee’s heart. She’s up to her old tricks again – boasting about her latest conquests – reaffirming Renee’s lack of faith in love. As Renee’s happily-ever-after hangs in the balance, will Luc be able to convince her that true love can last forever? A totally heart-warming summer romance you won’t want to put down! Perfect for fans of Jenny Hale, Susan Mallery and Jill Shalvis ‘Just what I needed. A delicious escapist read of the boy-next-door variety’― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars ‘This book was a fun beach sunshine read …Makes me want to go to the beach!― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars ‘ I absolutely loved reading this book!…I stayed up so late to finish it!’― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars
But when Renee discovers that Luc Hardy has moved next door, her world is knocked off kilter. Luc was her whirlwind summer romance as a teen and, more importantly, her first love. Now he’s back in West Cove, looking more handsome than ever.
There is no escaping the romance in the air this summer. With the wedding planning in full swing, Renee begins to believe that she might be able to put her childhood reservations about marriage aside. Yet when her mother arrives, she stirs a torrent of emotions in Renee’s heart. She’s up to her old tricks again – boasting about her latest conquests – reaffirming Renee’s lack of faith in love. As Renee’s happily-ever-after hangs in the balance, will Luc be able to convince her that true love can last forever? A totally heart-warming summer romance you won’t want to put down! Perfect for fans of Jenny Hale, Susan Mallery and Jill Shalvis ‘Just what I needed. A delicious escapist read of the boy-next-door variety’― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars ‘This book was a fun beach sunshine read …Makes me want to go to the beach!― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars ‘ I absolutely loved reading this book!…I stayed up so late to finish it!’― NetGalley Reviewer, 5 stars
384 pages, Paperback
Published June 8, 2021
509 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Katlyn Duncan
21 books336 followersKatlyn Duncan is a multi-published author of adult and young adult fiction, and has ghostwritten over 40 novels for children and adults.
When she’s not writing, she’s obsessing over many (many) television series’, and hanging out on YouTube where she shares her writing process and all the bookish things.
Keep up with Katlyn by subscribing to her newsletter: www.katlynduncan.com/newsletter.
When she’s not writing, she’s obsessing over many (many) television series’, and hanging out on YouTube where she shares her writing process and all the bookish things.
Keep up with Katlyn by subscribing to her newsletter: www.katlynduncan.com/newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 30, 2020
Sweet and sandy. Katlyn Duncan has written the perfect feel good beach read. Renee doesn’t do relationships the last thing she wants is to end up like her mother. Instead she has summer flings with the tourists that visit her cute little beach town in New England. And that was working just fine for her until Luke the first and possibly the only boy she ever fell in love with shows back up in town. But is it worth it to give Luke her heart again for him just to leave at the end of summer? A delightful story packed with wedding plans, little sisters, hidden relationships, Beach walks, dogs, volleyball, cookouts, and complicated feelings.
I really liked Renee, but the girl frustrated me and she seriously needed to grow a backbone. Her little sister Kate comes marching into town and expects Renee to drop absolutely everything and plan her wedding. Kate was a very selfish character, not to mention I could not figure out why she was having a wedding all the way across the country from where she lives? But to each their own, I guess. Then there was Renee‘s approach to relationships, never really made sense, how never getting in a serious relationship would stop her from being like her mother? I kind of thought it made her even more like her mother? Renee really needed a good friend to tell her what’s what, and I think Sadie did try she probably just needed to be a little more blunt. I think Renee’s flaws made the story more interesting even though it frustrated me. The romance was super sweet and I was very satisfied with how the story ended. This was the perfect way to visit the beach without all the sand or a need to stop social distancing.
This book in emojis 🏖 🏐 👙 🐶 👰🏼 🛠
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
I really liked Renee, but the girl frustrated me and she seriously needed to grow a backbone. Her little sister Kate comes marching into town and expects Renee to drop absolutely everything and plan her wedding. Kate was a very selfish character, not to mention I could not figure out why she was having a wedding all the way across the country from where she lives? But to each their own, I guess. Then there was Renee‘s approach to relationships, never really made sense, how never getting in a serious relationship would stop her from being like her mother? I kind of thought it made her even more like her mother? Renee really needed a good friend to tell her what’s what, and I think Sadie did try she probably just needed to be a little more blunt. I think Renee’s flaws made the story more interesting even though it frustrated me. The romance was super sweet and I was very satisfied with how the story ended. This was the perfect way to visit the beach without all the sand or a need to stop social distancing.
This book in emojis 🏖 🏐 👙 🐶 👰🏼 🛠
*** Big thank you to HQ Digital for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 4, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Renee has played it safe by avoiding relationships. She has seen her mother's failures with men and will do anything to avoid being like her. She has a younger sister, Cait, who is getting married, and she has surprised Renee with a visit for a month prior to the wedding. Cait also wants Renee to drop everything to "help" plan her wedding. Renee is willing to help because she has had a big part of raising her younger sister and wants to make sure the wedding is perfect. Cait is demanding and spoiled and while it starts to get under Renee's skin, she does her best to keep her emotions in check.
Renee is also surprised to learn that her childhood crush has moved in next door for the summer and it seems as if the sparks are still there. Luc let's her know that he has feelings for her and the two decide to see where it will take them.
Renee and Cait's mom makes an early arrival to the wedding which upends the balance that Renee has been feeling and it also contributes to the insecurities that Renee had felt growing up.
The story had a strong premise and at times you felt you were reading two storylines that were intertwined together, but it lacked depth, and I wish there could have been more feeling from the characters.
Renee has played it safe by avoiding relationships. She has seen her mother's failures with men and will do anything to avoid being like her. She has a younger sister, Cait, who is getting married, and she has surprised Renee with a visit for a month prior to the wedding. Cait also wants Renee to drop everything to "help" plan her wedding. Renee is willing to help because she has had a big part of raising her younger sister and wants to make sure the wedding is perfect. Cait is demanding and spoiled and while it starts to get under Renee's skin, she does her best to keep her emotions in check.
Renee is also surprised to learn that her childhood crush has moved in next door for the summer and it seems as if the sparks are still there. Luc let's her know that he has feelings for her and the two decide to see where it will take them.
Renee and Cait's mom makes an early arrival to the wedding which upends the balance that Renee has been feeling and it also contributes to the insecurities that Renee had felt growing up.
The story had a strong premise and at times you felt you were reading two storylines that were intertwined together, but it lacked depth, and I wish there could have been more feeling from the characters.
May 4, 2020
Last year I read a Christmas story by this author and I was charmed by it. It probably won’t surprise you that I was happy to see she had another book published.
The author takes us on a journey to a sunny beach and we are even invited to a wedding. What not to like about all those things???
Some people are afraid to love and have a relationship, because they have seen that marriage is not all about milk and honey. Some break ups are rather painful and nasty and you want to protect yourself by building a wall around your heart or only date when you are sure the romance will only last for a short period of time.
But you should not focus on those couples where it went wrong. There are a lot of people that are very happy together too. So grab your chance when you have found happiness and cherish it with all your heart.
A lovely summer read that I enjoyed at lot about family and love. 4 stars.
Thank you, Katlyn Duncan and Rachel’s Random Resources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
The author takes us on a journey to a sunny beach and we are even invited to a wedding. What not to like about all those things???
Some people are afraid to love and have a relationship, because they have seen that marriage is not all about milk and honey. Some break ups are rather painful and nasty and you want to protect yourself by building a wall around your heart or only date when you are sure the romance will only last for a short period of time.
But you should not focus on those couples where it went wrong. There are a lot of people that are very happy together too. So grab your chance when you have found happiness and cherish it with all your heart.
A lovely summer read that I enjoyed at lot about family and love. 4 stars.
Thank you, Katlyn Duncan and Rachel’s Random Resources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
April 30, 2020
Barefoot on the Beach is a second chance romance with family drama. The multilayered plot delves into dysfunctional family dynamics. It explores how children may be affected by the success or failure of their parent's relationship. Renee is anti-marriage because of her mother's influence, even when she meets Luc again, she is wary of falling in love.
As she plans her sister's wedding, she reacquaints with Luc. Their chances of happy ever are remote in the face of their internal conflicts and past nurturing. The setting is well described and immersive, the perfect wedding location.
A gently paced story because of Renee's internal analysis of her family relationships and her view of marriage, but the romance is lovely and eventually finds a way to win. Believable, strong characters and simple but effective plotting tell an engaging story of family relationships and love in an iconic New England setting.
I received a copy of this book from HQ and the author in return for an honest review.
As she plans her sister's wedding, she reacquaints with Luc. Their chances of happy ever are remote in the face of their internal conflicts and past nurturing. The setting is well described and immersive, the perfect wedding location.
A gently paced story because of Renee's internal analysis of her family relationships and her view of marriage, but the romance is lovely and eventually finds a way to win. Believable, strong characters and simple but effective plotting tell an engaging story of family relationships and love in an iconic New England setting.
I received a copy of this book from HQ and the author in return for an honest review.
August 8, 2020
This romance was super sweet and tender. Renee and Luke were a cute couple, he was so lovely with her. I liked that they found a nice place in each other and true happiness. :)
April 28, 2020
This was a surprising read, much more family drama than I'd anticipated with somewhat toxic family relationships impacting on those involved in the present. The community, friendships and delicious food all add to the story.
Renee Clarke is living with her father in a delightful location near the beach. She's something of a workaholic and will do anything for those she loves, which includes her half-sister, Cait. When Cait decides to get married in this location she turns up to enlist Renee's help organising it . . . actually she dumps everything on Renee, including her dog. Renee doesn't have positive feelings about marriage after all their mother put her through and she's certainly not looking forward to her turning up, either, but she'll do anything to help Cait.
When Renee's first love, Luc Hardy, returns to live in his aunt's home next door to Renee will this be a second chance romance for them? Can he help convince her that love doesn't have to be a toxic relationship? How will Renee's Mum turning up impact on their potential HEA?
This is a story about relationships, expectations, history and dynamics. I definitely thought Cait acted like a spoiled brat and Renee like a resentful doormat for much of the story. Marcus, Renee's Dad is lovely and so is Cait's husband to be. Poor Luc must have felt he was on a roller coaster ride with all the twists and turns his romance with Renee underwent! This is a moving story, definitely not the light hearted second chance romance I'd expected, it is much more about family dynamics and interactions. The setting, West Cove, is beautiful and definitely made me want to visit the beach again soon - lockdown permitting.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Renee Clarke is living with her father in a delightful location near the beach. She's something of a workaholic and will do anything for those she loves, which includes her half-sister, Cait. When Cait decides to get married in this location she turns up to enlist Renee's help organising it . . . actually she dumps everything on Renee, including her dog. Renee doesn't have positive feelings about marriage after all their mother put her through and she's certainly not looking forward to her turning up, either, but she'll do anything to help Cait.
When Renee's first love, Luc Hardy, returns to live in his aunt's home next door to Renee will this be a second chance romance for them? Can he help convince her that love doesn't have to be a toxic relationship? How will Renee's Mum turning up impact on their potential HEA?
This is a story about relationships, expectations, history and dynamics. I definitely thought Cait acted like a spoiled brat and Renee like a resentful doormat for much of the story. Marcus, Renee's Dad is lovely and so is Cait's husband to be. Poor Luc must have felt he was on a roller coaster ride with all the twists and turns his romance with Renee underwent! This is a moving story, definitely not the light hearted second chance romance I'd expected, it is much more about family dynamics and interactions. The setting, West Cove, is beautiful and definitely made me want to visit the beach again soon - lockdown permitting.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
May 12, 2020
I have to admit that it took me a good 25-30% before I could connect with this story. I’m not one to admit defeat and given that I loved Katlyn’s Christmas book, Wrapped Up For Christmas, I was left thinking it was going to be a ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ scenario.
But hallelujah (I’m not apologising for being dramatic as I was getting stressed out, lol), as Renee started to open up (metaphorically speaking) on the page my connection to the story developed.
Families are a funny old thing, aren’t they? Good or bad our upbringings shape us. They can either give us the courage to embrace all that life has to offer or they can inadvertently make us fearful of history repeating itself.
Renee’s past has taught her that love is a fickle thing and not to be trusted. She has her heart firmly shored up, but is that any way to really live? Luc’s return to West Cove may be the just the shake-up Renee needs.
Ugh, I have to admit to having a rant or two. Okay, okay – it was more like double figures *palms face*. All directed at Renee. Every time she bit her tongue rather than express her true feelings on a matter, I was there like an angel (read: devil) on her shoulder giving her what for. My very own version of a ‘Come to Laura’ moment *snorts*.
Coming from someone with vampire-like tendencies, the setting in this story was everything. I could literally feel the sun sinking into my bones and the sand between my toes. Renee’s connection to this special place leapt from the page. It’s where she can leave the stresses of life behind and just be.
I love how the author isn’t afraid to let her characters embrace their flaws and make mistakes in the pursuit of happiness.
Life is full of ups and downs, and BOTB reflected that with my initial struggle but ultimately left me with a smile on my face.
Best of luck, Renee – you got this!
But hallelujah (I’m not apologising for being dramatic as I was getting stressed out, lol), as Renee started to open up (metaphorically speaking) on the page my connection to the story developed.
Families are a funny old thing, aren’t they? Good or bad our upbringings shape us. They can either give us the courage to embrace all that life has to offer or they can inadvertently make us fearful of history repeating itself.
Renee’s past has taught her that love is a fickle thing and not to be trusted. She has her heart firmly shored up, but is that any way to really live? Luc’s return to West Cove may be the just the shake-up Renee needs.
Ugh, I have to admit to having a rant or two. Okay, okay – it was more like double figures *palms face*. All directed at Renee. Every time she bit her tongue rather than express her true feelings on a matter, I was there like an angel (read: devil) on her shoulder giving her what for. My very own version of a ‘Come to Laura’ moment *snorts*.
Coming from someone with vampire-like tendencies, the setting in this story was everything. I could literally feel the sun sinking into my bones and the sand between my toes. Renee’s connection to this special place leapt from the page. It’s where she can leave the stresses of life behind and just be.
I love how the author isn’t afraid to let her characters embrace their flaws and make mistakes in the pursuit of happiness.
Life is full of ups and downs, and BOTB reflected that with my initial struggle but ultimately left me with a smile on my face.
Best of luck, Renee – you got this!
May 1, 2020
This is a lovely escapist read if you want to burrow your head in a book and escape the late Spring rain showers. It's a second chance story as Renee helps to plan her little sister's wedding and tries to juggle everything in her life as well. There are some complicated relationships, especially with her parents and her sister, Cait, who I can admit to losing patience with on several occasions!
The beachside setting is idyllic and seems part of the whole story. The family pets add quite a bit of humour and there is a nice role reversal with Renee's father, Marcus, skulking around, hiding his own romance from his grown up daughters. Whether Renee can untangle her complicated views on dating and commitments remains to be seen but you do follow her story with interest and wonder what will be the outcome for her future family relationships.
In short: A beachside escape.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
The beachside setting is idyllic and seems part of the whole story. The family pets add quite a bit of humour and there is a nice role reversal with Renee's father, Marcus, skulking around, hiding his own romance from his grown up daughters. Whether Renee can untangle her complicated views on dating and commitments remains to be seen but you do follow her story with interest and wonder what will be the outcome for her future family relationships.
In short: A beachside escape.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
April 23, 2020
A great book to enjoy whilst relaxing in the sunshine. I loved the location the story was set in and Renee was a character who we got to know more throughout the book.
There were complicated relationship dynamics and as I read and the story unfolded it became about more than just Cait's wedding that Renee was helping to plan.
I was so caught up reading that I didn't realise that I was nearing the end so quickly and wanted to spend more time with Renee and her neighbours. A gorgeous light hearted read that left me smiling as I reached the end.
There were complicated relationship dynamics and as I read and the story unfolded it became about more than just Cait's wedding that Renee was helping to plan.
I was so caught up reading that I didn't realise that I was nearing the end so quickly and wanted to spend more time with Renee and her neighbours. A gorgeous light hearted read that left me smiling as I reached the end.
May 3, 2020
Recap: Renee's younger sister is getting married and dumps all the organising on Renee's plate. Then her first love reappears and she doesn't know what to do about it.
Review: I liked the ending and the misunderstanding. I thought the sister relationship and dynamic was great and the sister's friends were portrayed well. Renee came over a bit odd - we kept being told she was so organised and OCD and no fun and then we'd get that she was massively promiscuous and she dropped all her plans just like that so it was hard for me to reconcile that. Dialogue was good and the slow burn between Luc and Renee worked. I came away thinking yeah, that was alright.
Review: I liked the ending and the misunderstanding. I thought the sister relationship and dynamic was great and the sister's friends were portrayed well. Renee came over a bit odd - we kept being told she was so organised and OCD and no fun and then we'd get that she was massively promiscuous and she dropped all her plans just like that so it was hard for me to reconcile that. Dialogue was good and the slow burn between Luc and Renee worked. I came away thinking yeah, that was alright.
April 11, 2020
This is the first time I have read anything by this author. Renee only dated men that are leaving so she is not taking the chance of being like her mother. I will admit that the mother was a terrible person, but didn't understand Renee's thought process on dating. I felt that Cait was a very spoiled person. And Renee was a pushover. Her sister arrives early for her wedding, why she is having it in a town she didn't grown up in I still don't understand, and she expects Renee to plan the wedding. I loved Marcus, but didn't understand why he kept his relationship a secret. The nicknames that Cait gave Renee and Jorden would make me smack her. The most enjoyable parts were on the beach. I miss the beach! This was a good read. I felt the ending was "rushed".
May 3, 2020
When I started reading this book, I was expecting a summer beach romance story, but I got so much more. This was story about family relationships, dysfunctional ones at that and finding our own place in the world. It was about loving yourself as well as family, learning to say no, and not being afraid to take a chance.
Renee Clarke is living her safe life in West Cove. She is a freelance web designer, living with her father and only getting involved with tourists who will leave at the end of the season. She is a very scheduled person, and please don't mess with her schedule. She loves her father, Marcus and her half-sister, Cait who lives across the country. Renee was like a mother to Cait before she moved back home to West Cove, so when Cait turns up in town asking for Renee's help planning her upcoming wedding, she can't say no. Cait has turned up with emails and lists and her little dog Hunter, and passes it all off on Renee while she relaxes on the beach. Renee, is very anti-marriage due to watching her mother's antics with men over the years, but wants Cait to be happy, so even though this messes with her schedule, she reluctantly agrees. Meanwhile, the cottage next door has a new tenant, Luc Hardy, who is there to renovate the cottage to get it ready for his aunt to sell. Luc was Renee's first love, and she has a lot of unresolved feelings about him. Get ready for a very unsettling summer for Renee.
It took awhile to warm up to Renee. She seemed rather serious, yet to a degree, very self-absorbed. She was always martyring herself as she begrudgingly did all the work for Cait that she could have had a wedding planner do. As I got to know more about her and her past, I began to understand where she was coming from and began to feel for her. Cait, was a spoiled brat, but Renee was to blame for some of that. Again, as the story is told, we get more information about Cait and what she is dealing with. The males in this book were all wonderful. Marcus, Luc and Jorden were all very understanding men (I wish there were more like them in real life) and tried to help when they could. Renee's and Cait's mom was a piece of work. Talk about a narcissist. She was a piece of work and I can see why Renee and Cait were both somewhat messed up. Having said all that, the setting of West Cove and the beach were wonderful. I could just imagine being on a private beach, watching fireworks and holding hands with someone you love. There are a lot of serious issues that the characters have to deal with, but suffice it to say that there is a HEA and I did enjoy this story. I recommend it as a summer read, on the beach would be great, but out by the pool would work too. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Renee Clarke is living her safe life in West Cove. She is a freelance web designer, living with her father and only getting involved with tourists who will leave at the end of the season. She is a very scheduled person, and please don't mess with her schedule. She loves her father, Marcus and her half-sister, Cait who lives across the country. Renee was like a mother to Cait before she moved back home to West Cove, so when Cait turns up in town asking for Renee's help planning her upcoming wedding, she can't say no. Cait has turned up with emails and lists and her little dog Hunter, and passes it all off on Renee while she relaxes on the beach. Renee, is very anti-marriage due to watching her mother's antics with men over the years, but wants Cait to be happy, so even though this messes with her schedule, she reluctantly agrees. Meanwhile, the cottage next door has a new tenant, Luc Hardy, who is there to renovate the cottage to get it ready for his aunt to sell. Luc was Renee's first love, and she has a lot of unresolved feelings about him. Get ready for a very unsettling summer for Renee.
It took awhile to warm up to Renee. She seemed rather serious, yet to a degree, very self-absorbed. She was always martyring herself as she begrudgingly did all the work for Cait that she could have had a wedding planner do. As I got to know more about her and her past, I began to understand where she was coming from and began to feel for her. Cait, was a spoiled brat, but Renee was to blame for some of that. Again, as the story is told, we get more information about Cait and what she is dealing with. The males in this book were all wonderful. Marcus, Luc and Jorden were all very understanding men (I wish there were more like them in real life) and tried to help when they could. Renee's and Cait's mom was a piece of work. Talk about a narcissist. She was a piece of work and I can see why Renee and Cait were both somewhat messed up. Having said all that, the setting of West Cove and the beach were wonderful. I could just imagine being on a private beach, watching fireworks and holding hands with someone you love. There are a lot of serious issues that the characters have to deal with, but suffice it to say that there is a HEA and I did enjoy this story. I recommend it as a summer read, on the beach would be great, but out by the pool would work too. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
May 10, 2020
3.5 Stars Rounded
Expecting light and fluffy – this story never came close to that. Nuanced, layered and often quite deep, this is a story of a family full of broken relationships, dysfunctional communication and often unknowable choices with lingering effects. Renee, the elder sister in this family, is planning (last minute planning, mind) her little sister’s wedding. Cait is her half-sister, and while Renee loves her and would do almost anything for her, the wedding and her feelings about marriage were destroyed as a child after her own mother’s rather haphazard attention and bad choices. Furthermore, Cait never lived in West Cove, neither did her prospective groom, and there really isn’t a solid reason why it was her choice of venue except to have Renee, organized, capable and willing, to take over. No matter what the timeline.
Renee, meanwhile is dealing with the return of her high-school crush and first love, after spending most of her life after him in a guarded to hate relationship with the idea of ‘happily ever after’. From the stress from her sister’s arrival and dumping everything (including a dog) in her lap, to the reappearance of her mother, to Luc moving next door – emotionally Renee’s plate is full. Fortunately we are given plenty of information and backstory to understand the relationships and where and why they are in trouble, perhaps a bit more information than was strictly necessary as there were places where the storytelling slowed in the showing, but all of the information did point to chasms and causes- chasms and causes that are reparable and others not.
Throughout the story, Duncan manages to set the scene and give us plenty to work with – even with characters that are spoilt and unthinking (Cait) and a bit stuck in a rut and laden with hero-complex (Renee) and a totally self-indulgent and absorbed mother. Not to say that the men in the story are without their issues – quite frankly it seemed as if they chose the ‘women’ to fit their own particular brand of ‘dysfunction’ that allowed them to continue on. Far from relaxing, this is a deeper dive into humanity with all of it’s good, bad and frankly distasteful behaviors, reactions and the effects on relationships and personal psyches. Well-written, it’s not quite the ‘holiday escape read’ I was hoping for – but still solid enough to engage and distract with plenty of moments that may reflect on your own life.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Expecting light and fluffy – this story never came close to that. Nuanced, layered and often quite deep, this is a story of a family full of broken relationships, dysfunctional communication and often unknowable choices with lingering effects. Renee, the elder sister in this family, is planning (last minute planning, mind) her little sister’s wedding. Cait is her half-sister, and while Renee loves her and would do almost anything for her, the wedding and her feelings about marriage were destroyed as a child after her own mother’s rather haphazard attention and bad choices. Furthermore, Cait never lived in West Cove, neither did her prospective groom, and there really isn’t a solid reason why it was her choice of venue except to have Renee, organized, capable and willing, to take over. No matter what the timeline.
Renee, meanwhile is dealing with the return of her high-school crush and first love, after spending most of her life after him in a guarded to hate relationship with the idea of ‘happily ever after’. From the stress from her sister’s arrival and dumping everything (including a dog) in her lap, to the reappearance of her mother, to Luc moving next door – emotionally Renee’s plate is full. Fortunately we are given plenty of information and backstory to understand the relationships and where and why they are in trouble, perhaps a bit more information than was strictly necessary as there were places where the storytelling slowed in the showing, but all of the information did point to chasms and causes- chasms and causes that are reparable and others not.
Throughout the story, Duncan manages to set the scene and give us plenty to work with – even with characters that are spoilt and unthinking (Cait) and a bit stuck in a rut and laden with hero-complex (Renee) and a totally self-indulgent and absorbed mother. Not to say that the men in the story are without their issues – quite frankly it seemed as if they chose the ‘women’ to fit their own particular brand of ‘dysfunction’ that allowed them to continue on. Far from relaxing, this is a deeper dive into humanity with all of it’s good, bad and frankly distasteful behaviors, reactions and the effects on relationships and personal psyches. Well-written, it’s not quite the ‘holiday escape read’ I was hoping for – but still solid enough to engage and distract with plenty of moments that may reflect on your own life.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
May 2, 2020
Better off alone than mending a broken heart, right?
Renee Clarke is a happy single woman, living together with her father. She is not looking for love, being witness of her mother’s failed marriages. Why should she be looking for a marriage when a broken heart will be the result?
But being the good sister she is, she is thrilled to be planning her sister’s wedding. Renee hopes that her sister will get her happily ever after, but is resolute to stand by her own beliefs. On top of that, she finds out that her new neighbour is someone she already knows. It’s her first love Luc Hardy. Planning the wedding and meeting Luc again, makes Renee submerged in romance. But will she be able to put her reservations aside and take a chance on love?
We all had that one summer crush that rocked our world. But most of the times, it remains that one crush, with no further developments in the future. So was also the crush of Renee and Luc. Just one summer of true love, and nothing further. But what would happen when that crush comes back, living next to you and is even hotter now than then???
Renee is a strong woman, chasing her own dreams. But her mother’s past made her sure that happily ever after is just an illusion and just not for her. And reading everything she has been through with her mother, it’s understandable. But despite her reservations concerning marriage, she is also a very loving sister. So she does whatever she can to make sure her little sister has the perfect wedding. Because she wouldn’t dream of ruining a wedding of a loved one, just because she is against the decision. The way she puts her own work and planning aside for her sister, shows that she knows her priorities and making her sister happy is all that matters. Even if it will cause Renee some issues with her job.
Now, initially I didn’t like the behaviour of Cait, the sister. She seemed a little brat to me, wanting everyone to be ready at every wish and command. Even moving a finger was too much for her, so she starts commanding around. And her victim is often Renee. But at some point I had to revisit my opinion, because also Cait is having her own struggles…
And Luc… well, I will let you discover him by yourself! But I would be just like Renee, trying to catch as many glimpses from the window! This story is about second chances, daring to take a chance, but also about standing up for yourself. Renee is a real people - pleaser, often at her own expense. But finding the courage of standing up for yourself and just saying ‘no’ is harder than you think. And Renee is slowly growing, and at one point enough is enough. At that moment, I found myself cheering for her, as I was glad she finally did it! It’s difficult to take a leap of faith for a second chance, but that’s also part of growing up. And Renee is finding herself at a crossroads, as she doesn’t know if she is ready to take that step. A beautiful setting, great and funny people to read about (most of them) and the evolution of let us say a fearful woman, but ready to step out of her comfort zone. And love in many forms… a teenage love, sister love, parent – child love, even love for animals! What’s not to like?
Renee Clarke is a happy single woman, living together with her father. She is not looking for love, being witness of her mother’s failed marriages. Why should she be looking for a marriage when a broken heart will be the result?
But being the good sister she is, she is thrilled to be planning her sister’s wedding. Renee hopes that her sister will get her happily ever after, but is resolute to stand by her own beliefs. On top of that, she finds out that her new neighbour is someone she already knows. It’s her first love Luc Hardy. Planning the wedding and meeting Luc again, makes Renee submerged in romance. But will she be able to put her reservations aside and take a chance on love?
We all had that one summer crush that rocked our world. But most of the times, it remains that one crush, with no further developments in the future. So was also the crush of Renee and Luc. Just one summer of true love, and nothing further. But what would happen when that crush comes back, living next to you and is even hotter now than then???
Renee is a strong woman, chasing her own dreams. But her mother’s past made her sure that happily ever after is just an illusion and just not for her. And reading everything she has been through with her mother, it’s understandable. But despite her reservations concerning marriage, she is also a very loving sister. So she does whatever she can to make sure her little sister has the perfect wedding. Because she wouldn’t dream of ruining a wedding of a loved one, just because she is against the decision. The way she puts her own work and planning aside for her sister, shows that she knows her priorities and making her sister happy is all that matters. Even if it will cause Renee some issues with her job.
Now, initially I didn’t like the behaviour of Cait, the sister. She seemed a little brat to me, wanting everyone to be ready at every wish and command. Even moving a finger was too much for her, so she starts commanding around. And her victim is often Renee. But at some point I had to revisit my opinion, because also Cait is having her own struggles…
And Luc… well, I will let you discover him by yourself! But I would be just like Renee, trying to catch as many glimpses from the window! This story is about second chances, daring to take a chance, but also about standing up for yourself. Renee is a real people - pleaser, often at her own expense. But finding the courage of standing up for yourself and just saying ‘no’ is harder than you think. And Renee is slowly growing, and at one point enough is enough. At that moment, I found myself cheering for her, as I was glad she finally did it! It’s difficult to take a leap of faith for a second chance, but that’s also part of growing up. And Renee is finding herself at a crossroads, as she doesn’t know if she is ready to take that step. A beautiful setting, great and funny people to read about (most of them) and the evolution of let us say a fearful woman, but ready to step out of her comfort zone. And love in many forms… a teenage love, sister love, parent – child love, even love for animals! What’s not to like?
May 2, 2020
I chose this book because the setting on the beach is one of my favorites and because it is a second-chance-at-love story that is dear to my heart.
Renee is a pushover for her younger half-sister Cait. So when Cait shows up at West Cove a month before her wedding asking Renee to drop everything and help her plan it, Renee can't refuse her sister's own happiness. Renee doesn't believe in marriage due to her mother's toxic love and selfishness. But she loves Cait and would do anything for her since their mother wouldn't. However, Renee's very structured and orderly life has not only been interrupted by Cait and her loud and obnoxious dog, Hunter but by her first love, Luc, who is renting his aunt's home next door. Luc is in West Cove for the summer and their attraction is still there after all these years. Should she risk reviving their relationship knowing he is leaving in a few months?
Renee is a well-developed character who changes for the better. Her mother's selfish behavior and bad choices were a regrettable influence on her views of marriage and relationships which kept Renee's encounters brief and impassive, and with tourists only. Her mother broke her heart too many times to trust in her feelings for anyone until Luc came along again. His presence in Renee's teen years and now is a calming influence and when she starts to take charge of her life, she finally makes the right choices. Luc is sweet, thoughtful, and knows what he wants in life making a wonderful companion for Renee. As for Cait, she is an unlikeable selfish manipulator like her mother and I couldn't warm up to her at all. Her fiance has his hands full there. Renee's best friend, Sadie, is my favorite character who had me laughing out loud several times by her not-so-subtle hints to Renee and Luc.
Overall, this story is about family relationships and second chances at love. It's about putting yourself first, taking chances, and taking life by the horns. If you like feel-good stories with happy endings, give this one a try.
Thank you to Ms. Duncan for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Renee is a pushover for her younger half-sister Cait. So when Cait shows up at West Cove a month before her wedding asking Renee to drop everything and help her plan it, Renee can't refuse her sister's own happiness. Renee doesn't believe in marriage due to her mother's toxic love and selfishness. But she loves Cait and would do anything for her since their mother wouldn't. However, Renee's very structured and orderly life has not only been interrupted by Cait and her loud and obnoxious dog, Hunter but by her first love, Luc, who is renting his aunt's home next door. Luc is in West Cove for the summer and their attraction is still there after all these years. Should she risk reviving their relationship knowing he is leaving in a few months?
Renee is a well-developed character who changes for the better. Her mother's selfish behavior and bad choices were a regrettable influence on her views of marriage and relationships which kept Renee's encounters brief and impassive, and with tourists only. Her mother broke her heart too many times to trust in her feelings for anyone until Luc came along again. His presence in Renee's teen years and now is a calming influence and when she starts to take charge of her life, she finally makes the right choices. Luc is sweet, thoughtful, and knows what he wants in life making a wonderful companion for Renee. As for Cait, she is an unlikeable selfish manipulator like her mother and I couldn't warm up to her at all. Her fiance has his hands full there. Renee's best friend, Sadie, is my favorite character who had me laughing out loud several times by her not-so-subtle hints to Renee and Luc.
Overall, this story is about family relationships and second chances at love. It's about putting yourself first, taking chances, and taking life by the horns. If you like feel-good stories with happy endings, give this one a try.
Thank you to Ms. Duncan for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
May 4, 2020
Full of sunshine and holiday spirit, Barefoot On The Beach is perfect for those wanting to read and create a holiday atmosphere with a cold fruity drink during these difficult times.
After previously reading a lovely Christmassy novel by Ms Duncan, it was an easy decision to read her latest novel.
Renee Clarke agrees to assist her sister Cait with her wedding plans but it's a bitter-sweet gesture because marriage is something she'll never do herself. So when she finds out Luc Hardy has rented the next-door holiday home, it brings back memories of the teenage summer romance they shared. The boy she remembers has turned into a handsome man she'd like to get reacquainted with, but is it worth getting involved in another holiday romance when he'll be leaving West Cove after a few weeks?
Luc Hardy's never forgot the girl he met as a teenager and is thrilled to find she still lives in the house beside his aunt's. He's in West Cove for a short time and eager to get to know Renee again and discover if she's still like the girl he lost his heart to all those years ago?
Barefoot on the beach is so much more than a second chance romance. Renee comes from a complicated family and has a toxic relationship with her mother. Her little sister, Cait turns her life upside-down when she comes to stay before her wedding. Her presence highlights the difficult relationships Renee has in her life. The author portrays her as someone who is the product of a dysfunctional family and how those close to her have caused her great pain. She overcompensated by letting her sister walk all over her when she should stand up for herself. Having Luc back in her life allows her to start seeing her life from a contrasting perspective, only it's her divorced parents who finally show her how their behaviour had a negative impact on how she views certain people.
Everything ties up satisfactorily with a happy ending, although I felt this was a little rushed but overall, I enjoyed this summery novel with appealing characters set again a cosy coastal backdrop.
***arc generously received courtesy of HQ Digital via NetGalley***
After previously reading a lovely Christmassy novel by Ms Duncan, it was an easy decision to read her latest novel.
Renee Clarke agrees to assist her sister Cait with her wedding plans but it's a bitter-sweet gesture because marriage is something she'll never do herself. So when she finds out Luc Hardy has rented the next-door holiday home, it brings back memories of the teenage summer romance they shared. The boy she remembers has turned into a handsome man she'd like to get reacquainted with, but is it worth getting involved in another holiday romance when he'll be leaving West Cove after a few weeks?
Luc Hardy's never forgot the girl he met as a teenager and is thrilled to find she still lives in the house beside his aunt's. He's in West Cove for a short time and eager to get to know Renee again and discover if she's still like the girl he lost his heart to all those years ago?
Barefoot on the beach is so much more than a second chance romance. Renee comes from a complicated family and has a toxic relationship with her mother. Her little sister, Cait turns her life upside-down when she comes to stay before her wedding. Her presence highlights the difficult relationships Renee has in her life. The author portrays her as someone who is the product of a dysfunctional family and how those close to her have caused her great pain. She overcompensated by letting her sister walk all over her when she should stand up for herself. Having Luc back in her life allows her to start seeing her life from a contrasting perspective, only it's her divorced parents who finally show her how their behaviour had a negative impact on how she views certain people.
Everything ties up satisfactorily with a happy ending, although I felt this was a little rushed but overall, I enjoyed this summery novel with appealing characters set again a cosy coastal backdrop.
***arc generously received courtesy of HQ Digital via NetGalley***
April 29, 2020
Renee's ordered life is first knocked off balance when her sister requires help planning her fast-approaching wedding, and then upturned completely when her first summer fling moves back in next door. Over the course of the summer, she has to confront her choices and wonders if she's really as happy as she thinks.
Despite the age of these characters (I think Renee's in her mid-thirties), this almost feels like a coming of age book as Renee learns to set boundaries and let go of her painful past. I loved how her relationship with Luc grew naturally from the awkward re-meeting to adults having honest conversations about feelings and a future together. By the end of the book I had fully bought into them as a couple.
In fact, I was pleasantly surprised at how uplifting this book is. It's a sunny, optimistic cloud of a book full of sisterhood, family, and friendship. There's no clear antagonist, scheming exes, or even particularly catty women. The biggest barrier to Renee's happiness is herself which is both rare and realistic.
However I have to say I was not a huge fan of Renee's sister Cait. She came off as a bit selfish and rather manipulative especially in her dealings with Renee. While most of her actions came from a place of youthful naivety, I found myself getting more and more annoyed with her - and by extension, with Renee for putting up with her. Some of those boundaries Renee needed definitely related to her sister and I can't help but wish they'd had a proper conversation about that and cleared the air, rather than Renee squashing her feelings. After all, good boundaries also include realising when something is someone else's fault and not yours.
Despite my annoyance with Cait, this was a charming, uplifting read, perfect for the beach (or when you wish you were on one!)
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
Despite the age of these characters (I think Renee's in her mid-thirties), this almost feels like a coming of age book as Renee learns to set boundaries and let go of her painful past. I loved how her relationship with Luc grew naturally from the awkward re-meeting to adults having honest conversations about feelings and a future together. By the end of the book I had fully bought into them as a couple.
In fact, I was pleasantly surprised at how uplifting this book is. It's a sunny, optimistic cloud of a book full of sisterhood, family, and friendship. There's no clear antagonist, scheming exes, or even particularly catty women. The biggest barrier to Renee's happiness is herself which is both rare and realistic.
However I have to say I was not a huge fan of Renee's sister Cait. She came off as a bit selfish and rather manipulative especially in her dealings with Renee. While most of her actions came from a place of youthful naivety, I found myself getting more and more annoyed with her - and by extension, with Renee for putting up with her. Some of those boundaries Renee needed definitely related to her sister and I can't help but wish they'd had a proper conversation about that and cleared the air, rather than Renee squashing her feelings. After all, good boundaries also include realising when something is someone else's fault and not yours.
Despite my annoyance with Cait, this was a charming, uplifting read, perfect for the beach (or when you wish you were on one!)
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
May 3, 2020
I’m not quite sure what I was expecting when picked this book up, but it wasn’t this. It seems to centre far more on Renee’s dysfunctional family than the romance aspect of the book. Renee has so many issues going on around herself and her family that she’s completely blind to the changes happening right in front of her. It meant we got to see at lot more of her family, the gorgeous area they live and the fantastic seaside delicacies.
Renee’s living with her dad by a gorgeous stretch of private beach. The house next door has been up for rent for ages but has finally been rented out. The last thing Renee was expecting was her previous summer fling and first love, Luc, moving in next door. As if that wasn’t enough of a shock, her sister turns up out of the blue and expects Renee to drop her workaholic tendencies and plan her entire wedding for her because she can’t handle it.
I’ll be honest and say that I couldn’t relate to Renee at all and felt frustrated by her until just before the very end of the book. She seems to not notice anything going on around her and acts like a complete doormat for everyone else. As soon as her Cait (her sister) comes home, she’s given up her bedroom and has two slobbering and demanding dogs at her beck and call constantly. Anything her sister needs must be done immediately and she even tries to sabotage Renee’s career for her own needs. I was just so desperate for her to just open her eyes and stand up for herself!
That being said, there were plenty of characters I loved. Luc, Renee’s dad and Cait’s husband-to-be were all fantastic and tried their best to help Renee and their families throughout. It’s not a lighthearted romance, which is what I think I’d prepared myself for reading beforehand. It features so much more about families and how they interact with one another. I found myself yearning to be on the beach playing volleyball as soon as we are able to!
Renee’s living with her dad by a gorgeous stretch of private beach. The house next door has been up for rent for ages but has finally been rented out. The last thing Renee was expecting was her previous summer fling and first love, Luc, moving in next door. As if that wasn’t enough of a shock, her sister turns up out of the blue and expects Renee to drop her workaholic tendencies and plan her entire wedding for her because she can’t handle it.
I’ll be honest and say that I couldn’t relate to Renee at all and felt frustrated by her until just before the very end of the book. She seems to not notice anything going on around her and acts like a complete doormat for everyone else. As soon as her Cait (her sister) comes home, she’s given up her bedroom and has two slobbering and demanding dogs at her beck and call constantly. Anything her sister needs must be done immediately and she even tries to sabotage Renee’s career for her own needs. I was just so desperate for her to just open her eyes and stand up for herself!
That being said, there were plenty of characters I loved. Luc, Renee’s dad and Cait’s husband-to-be were all fantastic and tried their best to help Renee and their families throughout. It’s not a lighthearted romance, which is what I think I’d prepared myself for reading beforehand. It features so much more about families and how they interact with one another. I found myself yearning to be on the beach playing volleyball as soon as we are able to!
April 29, 2020
This book is a testament to the complexity of human relationships. Various relationships between women (mother-daughter, sister-sister) are explored, with emphasis on the failings and strengths of each person.
Several angles are described — the impact of a mother’s life choices on her daughter’s view of marriage and relationships, the effect of a small town’s narrow minds on the way one views women, the way a sister keeps compensating for her mother’s lack of interest in parenting.
All of it was a study in human psychology, the way the human mind works.
Of secondary interest is the contrast between the relationship of an older couple (leisurely and comfortable) and the relationship of a younger couple (full of chaos and Instagram updates).
Renee and Luc’s relationship (or the lack of it) is somewhere in the middle. The two tiptoe around their physical attraction and teen summer history, and have several false starts before they finally accept that love does not have to be painful and conditional.
I got a crash course in organizing a wedding, and I realized that no matter which country and culture it is, a perfect wedding requires meticulous planning, good people skills to smooth over ruffled feathers between family members, and a calm temperament.
Cait’s wedding preparations and choices were dreamy and beautiful, but her reason for dumping the planning on Renee at the last minute was not convincing enough. Seeing how Renee had taken it upon herself to “raise” Cait since their mother (Isla) was too busy elsewhere, Cait should have had a freer relationship with Renee.
The book feels quite long, especially where it delves deep into the estranged relationship between Isla and Renee (and how Renee cannot shake off thoughts of whether her mother would approve of her actions), and the sections where Cait selfishly dumps her work on Renee, but strangely she can’t refuse to do it.
I may not like the characters at all, including Renee and Luc, but I cannot deny that this is the truth about human relationships. People are not perfect; people do make the same mistakes over and over again without learning a thing from them. Even Luc and Marcus are unnecessarily reticent in the garb of giving other people their privacy, where a bit more candour and communication could have solved issues earlier.
Barefoot on the Beach features some enthralling descriptions of sunny beaches and rolling waters, which offset the estranged relationships between the various characters. The writing is fluid and polished, and the story never falters despite the complex subject matter.
(I received an ARC from Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
Several angles are described — the impact of a mother’s life choices on her daughter’s view of marriage and relationships, the effect of a small town’s narrow minds on the way one views women, the way a sister keeps compensating for her mother’s lack of interest in parenting.
All of it was a study in human psychology, the way the human mind works.
Of secondary interest is the contrast between the relationship of an older couple (leisurely and comfortable) and the relationship of a younger couple (full of chaos and Instagram updates).
Renee and Luc’s relationship (or the lack of it) is somewhere in the middle. The two tiptoe around their physical attraction and teen summer history, and have several false starts before they finally accept that love does not have to be painful and conditional.
I got a crash course in organizing a wedding, and I realized that no matter which country and culture it is, a perfect wedding requires meticulous planning, good people skills to smooth over ruffled feathers between family members, and a calm temperament.
Cait’s wedding preparations and choices were dreamy and beautiful, but her reason for dumping the planning on Renee at the last minute was not convincing enough. Seeing how Renee had taken it upon herself to “raise” Cait since their mother (Isla) was too busy elsewhere, Cait should have had a freer relationship with Renee.
The book feels quite long, especially where it delves deep into the estranged relationship between Isla and Renee (and how Renee cannot shake off thoughts of whether her mother would approve of her actions), and the sections where Cait selfishly dumps her work on Renee, but strangely she can’t refuse to do it.
I may not like the characters at all, including Renee and Luc, but I cannot deny that this is the truth about human relationships. People are not perfect; people do make the same mistakes over and over again without learning a thing from them. Even Luc and Marcus are unnecessarily reticent in the garb of giving other people their privacy, where a bit more candour and communication could have solved issues earlier.
Barefoot on the Beach features some enthralling descriptions of sunny beaches and rolling waters, which offset the estranged relationships between the various characters. The writing is fluid and polished, and the story never falters despite the complex subject matter.
(I received an ARC from Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
April 29, 2020
Reading this book left me feeling all beachy and summery and wanting all the sunshine and summer love!!!
Renee’s sister unexpectedly shows up early for her wedding and seems to expect her to plan what’s left...which is everything. Renee has always taken care of her younger sister and can’t seem to say no. Another surprise came in the form of Luc, her teenage sweetheart one summer he came to West Cove to spend time with his aunt. Many surprises, many relationships, and a great set of conflicts and issues to deal with.
I really like the character of Renee. She is definitely a pushover (which I don’t love), but she has a kind heart, has issues she needs to work through, and seems genuinely happy to be in her shoes and living her life. Cait, on the other hand, drives me absolutely nuts. While she is nice and encouraging, she has an entitled attitude and doesn’t even realize it because she is so used to getting what she wants. She is certainly not without her flaws, and Duncan wrote her character very well (if there were to be a villain she is one for me haha.) Luc is the perfect main male and his character is light, relaxed, fun, and very happy. He embodies the ease and contentment I feel we all aim to have!!!
This story deals with family issues and how the actions of our parents can stick with us and shape who we are/what we think. It also deals with love and secrets and relationships and the complexities of those relationships.
It was a really fun read, and while it’s a light story, it does come with deeper issues that help round it out. I could definitely see myself heading back to West Cove and visiting these characters again!!!
Renee’s sister unexpectedly shows up early for her wedding and seems to expect her to plan what’s left...which is everything. Renee has always taken care of her younger sister and can’t seem to say no. Another surprise came in the form of Luc, her teenage sweetheart one summer he came to West Cove to spend time with his aunt. Many surprises, many relationships, and a great set of conflicts and issues to deal with.
I really like the character of Renee. She is definitely a pushover (which I don’t love), but she has a kind heart, has issues she needs to work through, and seems genuinely happy to be in her shoes and living her life. Cait, on the other hand, drives me absolutely nuts. While she is nice and encouraging, she has an entitled attitude and doesn’t even realize it because she is so used to getting what she wants. She is certainly not without her flaws, and Duncan wrote her character very well (if there were to be a villain she is one for me haha.) Luc is the perfect main male and his character is light, relaxed, fun, and very happy. He embodies the ease and contentment I feel we all aim to have!!!
This story deals with family issues and how the actions of our parents can stick with us and shape who we are/what we think. It also deals with love and secrets and relationships and the complexities of those relationships.
It was a really fun read, and while it’s a light story, it does come with deeper issues that help round it out. I could definitely see myself heading back to West Cove and visiting these characters again!!!
May 3, 2020
Being a fan of Katlyn Duncan’s books I was looking forward to her latest novel and I was not disappointed, Barefoot on the Beach is a wonderfully heartwarming and uplifting romance about second chances at love. I was hooked from page one and fell in love with the characters especially Renee and Luc, the chemistry between the two sizzled off the page and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the story. Renee Clarke is happy as she is, single, having witnessed her mothers two failed marriages she has vowed to be on her own. However she is happy organising her sisters wedding even though she does not believe in true love herself, when she learns that her teenage first love who she had a summer romance with, Luc Hardy has returned to West Cove and moved in next door to her. Luc just happens to also be even more handsome then she remembers. As their relationship develops Renee starts to believe that maybe she can put aside her reservations and find love, but just as she decides this her mother returns boasting about her latest conquests and this just reaffirms Renee’s lack of faith in love. Therefore it is up to Luc to convince her that true love exists and that it can last forever.
I found this a lovely read as it is wonderfully written with a romantic storyline and family drama that had me hooked from the beginning and which flowed nicely. The characters are likeable and relatable and I felt fully immersed in the beautiful scenery thanks to the authors detailed descriptions, a perfect wedding destination. I was cheering Renee and Luc on hoping they would get their happy ever after. No spoilers, as I thoroughly recommend you read this book to find out!
I found this a lovely read as it is wonderfully written with a romantic storyline and family drama that had me hooked from the beginning and which flowed nicely. The characters are likeable and relatable and I felt fully immersed in the beautiful scenery thanks to the authors detailed descriptions, a perfect wedding destination. I was cheering Renee and Luc on hoping they would get their happy ever after. No spoilers, as I thoroughly recommend you read this book to find out!
April 25, 2020
This wasn't quite the light-hearted read that I had been hoping for. It had all the right ingredients but somehow that didn't translate on the page, for me.
Renee is living with her father in West Cove, after surviving her less-than-ideal childhood with her mother after they divorced. Her mother is SO toxic, that she needs to stay right away from Renee, at all times. Her mother's attitude to marriage has certainly influenced Renee, and not in a positive way.
Renee's sister Cait breezes into town and asks Renee to "help" with her wedding - which translates to Renee pretty much doing the bulk of it. She does it because she loves her sister, although I think Renee is a bit of a pushover, to be honest. To make things even more complicated, Luc comes to stay in his aunt's house, next door. Luc was Renee's first love and everyone knows that the memories of first love lingers......
I really wanted to like this book and there were parts of it I really enjoyed. But mostly it is super angsty. I have no idea what Renee actually does for a living, her relationship with Luc could have been expanded upon (I needed more of the romance), and the relationship that Renee had with her mother pushed all my buttons. I had a very similar mother and it is probably that which is making me a little uncomfortable, to be honest.
I very much wanted the book to continue after Renee had her epiphany - or even read an epilogue?
Anyway, it was well written, just not quite what I thought I was going to be reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital.
Renee is living with her father in West Cove, after surviving her less-than-ideal childhood with her mother after they divorced. Her mother is SO toxic, that she needs to stay right away from Renee, at all times. Her mother's attitude to marriage has certainly influenced Renee, and not in a positive way.
Renee's sister Cait breezes into town and asks Renee to "help" with her wedding - which translates to Renee pretty much doing the bulk of it. She does it because she loves her sister, although I think Renee is a bit of a pushover, to be honest. To make things even more complicated, Luc comes to stay in his aunt's house, next door. Luc was Renee's first love and everyone knows that the memories of first love lingers......
I really wanted to like this book and there were parts of it I really enjoyed. But mostly it is super angsty. I have no idea what Renee actually does for a living, her relationship with Luc could have been expanded upon (I needed more of the romance), and the relationship that Renee had with her mother pushed all my buttons. I had a very similar mother and it is probably that which is making me a little uncomfortable, to be honest.
I very much wanted the book to continue after Renee had her epiphany - or even read an epilogue?
Anyway, it was well written, just not quite what I thought I was going to be reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ Digital.
May 2, 2020
If you are looking for a sweet romance to disconnect for a few hours this weekend, buy this book, it will transport you to a better place!
This is the story of Renee Clarke, she seems to have the “perfect life”, the only thing that is missing is a partner, but she is not really interested in finding one. Her mother had two divorces and quite a few partners, so she thinks is better to be alone than have the same life as her. But, yes, there’s a but, she never expected to meet her first love Luc, maybe he will make her change her point of view about couples? You’ll have to read the story if you want to know more about it!
I loved Renee’s character, she is brave, intelligent and loves very much her little sister, but I didn’t like the relation between them. It felt like she uses her as much as she can without any explanation or thanking her, I don’t have any brothers or sisters, but I think their relation is more of a mother/daughter.
The relation between Renee and Luc is much more deeper than we will think in the beginning, they have some background together and separately, if they want to stay together they will have to talk about their fears and pain. As I always think, a relation is not easy, you have to trust and confide on your partner, if there’s no dialogue between them, there’s no couple to save!
Barefoot on the Beach is a quick and refreshing read, it will make you travel to the sea where the only problem you’ll have is not to be burned! Ready?
This is the story of Renee Clarke, she seems to have the “perfect life”, the only thing that is missing is a partner, but she is not really interested in finding one. Her mother had two divorces and quite a few partners, so she thinks is better to be alone than have the same life as her. But, yes, there’s a but, she never expected to meet her first love Luc, maybe he will make her change her point of view about couples? You’ll have to read the story if you want to know more about it!
I loved Renee’s character, she is brave, intelligent and loves very much her little sister, but I didn’t like the relation between them. It felt like she uses her as much as she can without any explanation or thanking her, I don’t have any brothers or sisters, but I think their relation is more of a mother/daughter.
The relation between Renee and Luc is much more deeper than we will think in the beginning, they have some background together and separately, if they want to stay together they will have to talk about their fears and pain. As I always think, a relation is not easy, you have to trust and confide on your partner, if there’s no dialogue between them, there’s no couple to save!
Barefoot on the Beach is a quick and refreshing read, it will make you travel to the sea where the only problem you’ll have is not to be burned! Ready?
May 6, 2020
Having suffered a bit of a lockdown concentration slump I picked this up as I was after a light-hearted, uplifting read - and the dog on the lovely cover clinched the deal. However, it wasn’t quite what I expected.
The main character spends 90% of the book being a push over, her mother is horrible, her work colleagues are horrible, her sister is horrible (the explanation at the end didn’t fly for me at all), her sister’s husband is useless at best, given what he knew all along - her dad is fine, but for no reason discernible to me, randomly keeps his new relationship secret and takes forever to tell his daughter to stand up for herself. The only nice thing in her life is her relationship with her former flame (who’s a hottie), and obviously the dog, who isn’t in as many scenes as I would have liked.
I’m sure genre fans will love the emotional, angsty, up and down of family drama, exploitative sisters and self involved mothers, but it didn’t quite hit the escape spot for me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s very well written - I just wish the main character had developed a spine much earlier in the story and kicked some ass. Probably my personal lockdown frustration speaking...
The main character spends 90% of the book being a push over, her mother is horrible, her work colleagues are horrible, her sister is horrible (the explanation at the end didn’t fly for me at all), her sister’s husband is useless at best, given what he knew all along - her dad is fine, but for no reason discernible to me, randomly keeps his new relationship secret and takes forever to tell his daughter to stand up for herself. The only nice thing in her life is her relationship with her former flame (who’s a hottie), and obviously the dog, who isn’t in as many scenes as I would have liked.
I’m sure genre fans will love the emotional, angsty, up and down of family drama, exploitative sisters and self involved mothers, but it didn’t quite hit the escape spot for me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s very well written - I just wish the main character had developed a spine much earlier in the story and kicked some ass. Probably my personal lockdown frustration speaking...
August 2, 2020
2.5 to be exact but rounding up to give the benefit of the doubt. This was one of the longest short reads of my life. It started out well. By halfway through, I was done with Renee. She was supposed to come off as the compassionate older sister, but in reality, I found her to be annoyingly whiny and more of a doormat than anything. She let her sister run roughshod over her without saying a word. If Renee did say or do something to make Cait, her sister, realize how self-centered Cait was being it was done in a passive-aggressive way that Cait could never figure out. Renee questioned, double questioned, and triple questioned absolutely everything. She blamed everything on her mother. I’ll give her there were some things solidly due to her mother, but a lot of it was also Renee being a martyr and wishing everyone would notice. I did like the setting, I mean it was on a beach……
April 30, 2020
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I really liked the way that this story was written, I thought that the characters were well developed and their interaction was spot on and really enjoyable to read.
I thought that the story was well developed and it had a lovely flow to it - it was a pleasure to read and it was a great way to relax and pass a few hours too. I have recommended the book to my mum as I know she would love the story!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a well-developed story and it was thoroughly enjoyable – highly recommended and it would be a brilliant beach read (or garden too)!
I really liked the way that this story was written, I thought that the characters were well developed and their interaction was spot on and really enjoyable to read.
I thought that the story was well developed and it had a lovely flow to it - it was a pleasure to read and it was a great way to relax and pass a few hours too. I have recommended the book to my mum as I know she would love the story!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, I thought it was a well-developed story and it was thoroughly enjoyable – highly recommended and it would be a brilliant beach read (or garden too)!
June 9, 2020
This is a nice summer tale of families coming together and old flames being relit.
The story develops nicely as you get to know the characters and learn more about their lives and their sometimes troubled pasts.
For me, it was a little predictable, with the story taking the path so many summery romance books take.
I did enjoy the read, something light hearted and easy to read between heavier books or while chilling in the garden.
Unfortunately it was hard to fall in love with the main characters and the story just lacked something for me, it just didn’t grab me and have that unputdownable vibe that I love in a book.
It seemed to end abruptly, I would have loved a little more to tie up everyone’s stories.
The story develops nicely as you get to know the characters and learn more about their lives and their sometimes troubled pasts.
For me, it was a little predictable, with the story taking the path so many summery romance books take.
I did enjoy the read, something light hearted and easy to read between heavier books or while chilling in the garden.
Unfortunately it was hard to fall in love with the main characters and the story just lacked something for me, it just didn’t grab me and have that unputdownable vibe that I love in a book.
It seemed to end abruptly, I would have loved a little more to tie up everyone’s stories.
June 11, 2023
It was okay - parts really annoyed me like how demanding cait was to Renee but it never really got solved or spoken about in the end.
Luc was good but I wish I could actually feel a spark between him and Renee - it all felt a bit forced and was reliant on the fact they 'changed each others lives' almost the very first time they spent a summer together which was like ages ago and you're telling me Luc has such a strong feeling towards the area when he only ever visited it once? If he felt that strong surely he would've visited again? Idk it kinda irked me, that side of things. If he had visited several years it could've made the storyline a bit more interesting - especially if he brought his ex there a few times etc.
Overall a few plot holes but was an easy book to read
Luc was good but I wish I could actually feel a spark between him and Renee - it all felt a bit forced and was reliant on the fact they 'changed each others lives' almost the very first time they spent a summer together which was like ages ago and you're telling me Luc has such a strong feeling towards the area when he only ever visited it once? If he felt that strong surely he would've visited again? Idk it kinda irked me, that side of things. If he had visited several years it could've made the storyline a bit more interesting - especially if he brought his ex there a few times etc.
Overall a few plot holes but was an easy book to read
April 26, 2020
One for fans of second chance romances! Renee grew up close to her father and not to her toxic mother. Now, she's living happily with her dad in the nice small town of West Cove. Her sister Cait, who is more like her mother than her father, shows up and wants Renee to plan her wedding and then, even worse, her mom comes to town. Salvation lies, however, with Luc, the boy next door who was her first love. They're both adults now and Luc, it turns out, is worth taking a risk for. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A fairly light (there is that mom issue) read that was nice during the quarantine but will likely satisfy anytime.
April 23, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Katlyn Duncan for giving me an ARC to read of Barefoot on The Beach for my honest review.
Renee was excited to be helping her sister plan her wedding. Renee herself was not set on marriage after seeing her Mother have so two failed marriages. She was simply fine being on her own with no love interest in her life.
But when Luc moved in next door that may all change.
I did not feel a connection to Renee while reading this book. This was an OK book but not one of the best I have read.
Renee was excited to be helping her sister plan her wedding. Renee herself was not set on marriage after seeing her Mother have so two failed marriages. She was simply fine being on her own with no love interest in her life.
But when Luc moved in next door that may all change.
I did not feel a connection to Renee while reading this book. This was an OK book but not one of the best I have read.
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