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Cape May #2
Christmas in Cape May
Margaret and Liz are sisters who are about to get in over their heads …
They've been gifted The Seahorse Inn, a beautiful bed-and-breakfast by the beach in Cape May. Though it hasn’t been open to guests in years, the pair endeavor to reopen in time for the holidays. Problem is, they discover the charming old place is really a money pit full of more issues than they can handle on their own.
On top of dealing with renovations, Margaret is surprised by an unexpected visit from her ex-mother-in-law. Having never gotten along, Elaine has a lot of nerve to request Margaret step in and do something about her ex-husband giving his mother the slip.
Not only that, but the neighbors who own the Morning Dew Cottage next door are nothing but nasty and rude, which is a mystery to the sisters. As Margaret and Liz get to know their other neighbors, they uncover hidden secrets within the Seahorse’s walls.
Dave and Margaret are still going strong, but will his brash mother and big family feud over the holidays prove to be the straw that breaks Margaret’s back?
In Book 2 of the Cape May Series, follow Margaret and Liz’s journey of reopening The Seahorse Inn while the magic of the holidays—and the B&B itself—bring together family and friends for a special Christmas to remember.
This is Book 2 in the Cape May series. It is recommended to start at Book 1, The Cape May Garden.
They've been gifted The Seahorse Inn, a beautiful bed-and-breakfast by the beach in Cape May. Though it hasn’t been open to guests in years, the pair endeavor to reopen in time for the holidays. Problem is, they discover the charming old place is really a money pit full of more issues than they can handle on their own.
On top of dealing with renovations, Margaret is surprised by an unexpected visit from her ex-mother-in-law. Having never gotten along, Elaine has a lot of nerve to request Margaret step in and do something about her ex-husband giving his mother the slip.
Not only that, but the neighbors who own the Morning Dew Cottage next door are nothing but nasty and rude, which is a mystery to the sisters. As Margaret and Liz get to know their other neighbors, they uncover hidden secrets within the Seahorse’s walls.
Dave and Margaret are still going strong, but will his brash mother and big family feud over the holidays prove to be the straw that breaks Margaret’s back?
In Book 2 of the Cape May Series, follow Margaret and Liz’s journey of reopening The Seahorse Inn while the magic of the holidays—and the B&B itself—bring together family and friends for a special Christmas to remember.
This is Book 2 in the Cape May series. It is recommended to start at Book 1, The Cape May Garden.
134 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2020
574 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
April 3, 2025
Christmas in Cape May by Claudia Vance (2020)
Cape May #2
131-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-126
Genre:Contemporary Romance, Clean Romance, Family
Featuring: Divorcée, New Jersey; Bed & Breakfast, Gardening, Children, Food, Quadragenarian MC, Wildlife Refuge Hospital, Sisters, Family Dynamics, Ex-Mother-In-Law, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Renovations, Rivals, Mystery, Fundraising, Community Christmas Events, Christmas Activities, Christmas Movies, Family Gathering, Family Dynamics, Blended Families, Lead into Next Book, Link to Book 3 Cape May Stars, Link to Ocean City Tides Book 1 A Summer in Ocean City, Author's Links
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, "Here Comes Santa Claus" by Jean Autry, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" Dean Martin, “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms, "Christmas In The Sand" by Colbie Caillat, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee, "Sleigh Ride" by Ella Fitzgerald," Joy To The World " by The Lennon Sisters, "Christmas Carousel" by Peggy Lee, "Deck the Halls" by Nat King Cole, "O Christmas Tree" by Tony Bennett, " "At Last" by Etta James, "Sleigh Ride" by The Ronettes, "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "Winter Wonderland" by Frank Sinatra, "Go Girlfriend (Have a Merry Christmas)" by No Secrets, "We Wish You A Merry Christmas," In A Sentimental Mood" by Duke Ellington, "I'm So Excited"The Pointer Sisters
Books and Authors mentioned: A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore [Twas the Night Before Christmas]
Memorable Quotes: Judy laid out a buffet of food, and everyone formed a line to pile their dishes high with turkey, ham, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, pineapple stuffing, regular stuffing, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and the rest of the beloved traditional dishes. Extra tables and chairs had been placed in the living room since there wasn’t enough room at the big dining room table for everyone. The kids had their own little table as well. Aunt Linda sat next to Margaret and Liz. “I’m so excited to come help out at the B&B this weekend,” she said as she took a bite.
By the time everyone had finished eating and chatting, Margaret and Liz helped Judy clean up and put out the desserts: pumpkin pie, pecan pie, key lime pie, cheesecake, cookies, and a few other delectable treats.
Judy had cooked up a storm and made a wonderful meal of sautéed green beans with shallots, mashed potatoes, ham, and sweet potatoes with some freshly baked biscuits.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏖🛎🎄
My thoughts: 🔖Page 42 of 131 CHAPTER FIVE My only issue with this story is how the B&B went from being a beautiful house used by family and friends to a dilapidated fixer-upper in 2 months, that just wasn't needed, especially if all they were going to do was paint. What happened to the rot floorboards, and why weren't they rotten in July? It's feel-good cozy for sure. I'm only stopping to sleep. I'm very behind on it. Otherwise, this would be finished within the hour.
There were a lot of inconsistencies like families that lived out of state for years now have years-long local traditions and can now visit frequently, compared to the July Family Reunion only in the previous book. This definitely my kind of family Romance cozy series but I'm taking a short break even though I have up to Book 11, I'm just not ready for movie stars or the characters juggling dozens of jobs and projects.
Recommend to others: Yes, this is fun, low drama, and full of food.
Cape May
1. The Cape May Garden (2020)
2. Christmas in Cape May (2020)
3. Cape May Stars (2021)
4. Cape May Beach Days (2021)
5. Cape May Summer Nights (2021)
6. Cape May Locals' Summer (2021)
7. Cape May Monarch Butterflies (2021)
8. A Cozy Cape May Autumn (2021)
9. The Cape May Movie Theater (2022)
10. Cape May Hydrangeas (2022)
11. Cape May Sunshine (2022)
12. Cape May Raindrops (2023)
13. Cape May Sunsets (2023)
14. Cape May Magic (2024)
15. Cape May Glitter (2024)
16. Cape May Dreams (2025)
Cape May #2
131-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-126
Genre:Contemporary Romance, Clean Romance, Family
Featuring: Divorcée, New Jersey; Bed & Breakfast, Gardening, Children, Food, Quadragenarian MC, Wildlife Refuge Hospital, Sisters, Family Dynamics, Ex-Mother-In-Law, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Renovations, Rivals, Mystery, Fundraising, Community Christmas Events, Christmas Activities, Christmas Movies, Family Gathering, Family Dynamics, Blended Families, Lead into Next Book, Link to Book 3 Cape May Stars, Link to Ocean City Tides Book 1 A Summer in Ocean City, Author's Links
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Songs for the soundtrack: “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, "Here Comes Santa Claus" by Jean Autry, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" Dean Martin, “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms, "Christmas In The Sand" by Colbie Caillat, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee, "Sleigh Ride" by Ella Fitzgerald," Joy To The World " by The Lennon Sisters, "Christmas Carousel" by Peggy Lee, "Deck the Halls" by Nat King Cole, "O Christmas Tree" by Tony Bennett, " "At Last" by Etta James, "Sleigh Ride" by The Ronettes, "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby, "Winter Wonderland" by Frank Sinatra, "Go Girlfriend (Have a Merry Christmas)" by No Secrets, "We Wish You A Merry Christmas," In A Sentimental Mood" by Duke Ellington, "I'm So Excited"The Pointer Sisters
Books and Authors mentioned: A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore [Twas the Night Before Christmas]
Memorable Quotes: Judy laid out a buffet of food, and everyone formed a line to pile their dishes high with turkey, ham, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, pineapple stuffing, regular stuffing, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and the rest of the beloved traditional dishes. Extra tables and chairs had been placed in the living room since there wasn’t enough room at the big dining room table for everyone. The kids had their own little table as well. Aunt Linda sat next to Margaret and Liz. “I’m so excited to come help out at the B&B this weekend,” she said as she took a bite.
By the time everyone had finished eating and chatting, Margaret and Liz helped Judy clean up and put out the desserts: pumpkin pie, pecan pie, key lime pie, cheesecake, cookies, and a few other delectable treats.
Judy had cooked up a storm and made a wonderful meal of sautéed green beans with shallots, mashed potatoes, ham, and sweet potatoes with some freshly baked biscuits.
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏖🛎🎄
My thoughts: 🔖Page 42 of 131 CHAPTER FIVE My only issue with this story is how the B&B went from being a beautiful house used by family and friends to a dilapidated fixer-upper in 2 months, that just wasn't needed, especially if all they were going to do was paint. What happened to the rot floorboards, and why weren't they rotten in July? It's feel-good cozy for sure. I'm only stopping to sleep. I'm very behind on it. Otherwise, this would be finished within the hour.
There were a lot of inconsistencies like families that lived out of state for years now have years-long local traditions and can now visit frequently, compared to the July Family Reunion only in the previous book. This definitely my kind of family Romance cozy series but I'm taking a short break even though I have up to Book 11, I'm just not ready for movie stars or the characters juggling dozens of jobs and projects.
Recommend to others: Yes, this is fun, low drama, and full of food.
Cape May
1. The Cape May Garden (2020)
2. Christmas in Cape May (2020)
3. Cape May Stars (2021)
4. Cape May Beach Days (2021)
5. Cape May Summer Nights (2021)
6. Cape May Locals' Summer (2021)
7. Cape May Monarch Butterflies (2021)
8. A Cozy Cape May Autumn (2021)
9. The Cape May Movie Theater (2022)
10. Cape May Hydrangeas (2022)
11. Cape May Sunshine (2022)
12. Cape May Raindrops (2023)
13. Cape May Sunsets (2023)
14. Cape May Magic (2024)
15. Cape May Glitter (2024)
16. Cape May Dreams (2025)
July 2, 2022
Charming book- too short!
September 7, 2022
so enjoyed this 2nd book in the series...look forward to reading more.
April 26, 2025
Second book in the Cape May series. A fast read.
February 21, 2022
Feel Good Story
This feel good story could be made much better with better editing. There are several places where an incorrect word was used. The most glaring problem to me was when one of the couples was walking along the beach while it was snowing and they were being guided by moonlight.
This feel good story could be made much better with better editing. There are several places where an incorrect word was used. The most glaring problem to me was when one of the couples was walking along the beach while it was snowing and they were being guided by moonlight.
December 24, 2024
Christmas in Cape May by Claudia Vance is a 2020 publication.
I checked the first and second book in this series out at the same time. ( I'm way behind on my reviews!) These are very short books, and the main reason I checked the first book out was so I’d have a little background leading into the second installment because what I was really wanting was a clean Christmas novel.
Unfortunately, the first book left something to be desired, but since I’d already checked out the second book I decided to go ahead and read it, especially since it was so short. I was very skeptical, but as it turned out this second installment did offer some improvement.
There are some big foibles, and we still don’t really have a great description of these characters- though the surroundings are usually a bit more descriptive.
That said, there were some real holiday vibes in this one and it was more of what I have been looking for all season.
Overall, it was not great, but a noticeable inprovment over the first installment. It would seem most of the books in this series are super short so if I were to continue with the series, it would have to be with the understanding that nothing would ever be fleshed out satisfactorily- and so at this point I’m pretty sure I’ll let this one fall by the wayside.
That said, this story did deliver some depth and a nice holiday spirit- which is more than I can say about most of my other holiday choices this year.
I checked the first and second book in this series out at the same time. ( I'm way behind on my reviews!) These are very short books, and the main reason I checked the first book out was so I’d have a little background leading into the second installment because what I was really wanting was a clean Christmas novel.
Unfortunately, the first book left something to be desired, but since I’d already checked out the second book I decided to go ahead and read it, especially since it was so short. I was very skeptical, but as it turned out this second installment did offer some improvement.
There are some big foibles, and we still don’t really have a great description of these characters- though the surroundings are usually a bit more descriptive.
That said, there were some real holiday vibes in this one and it was more of what I have been looking for all season.
Overall, it was not great, but a noticeable inprovment over the first installment. It would seem most of the books in this series are super short so if I were to continue with the series, it would have to be with the understanding that nothing would ever be fleshed out satisfactorily- and so at this point I’m pretty sure I’ll let this one fall by the wayside.
That said, this story did deliver some depth and a nice holiday spirit- which is more than I can say about most of my other holiday choices this year.
June 22, 2022
This is Book 2 in a series. While it is OK as a stand-alone, the story makes more sense if you have read the first book. It would have been easy for the author to include the essential info from the previous books in this story so you better understand the characters and the relationships but she didn't.
There were a few places that things didn't ring true. In Chapter 2 Dave says he has a "friend that has a construction business that will come take a look and see if he can find any other major issues"... and the friend didn't go in the attic??? To operate a B&B there would need to be some licensing and inspections by the township or state. If it hadn't been a B&B in a while, they would have to adhere to the newest codes, but no mention is made of any of that.
I found this book to be a little too sweet and perfect. It paints a sugar-coated, idealistic picture of running a B&B and makes Christmas look like a Hallmark movie, but not as well executed.
The only redeeming quality is the dispute with the neighbor. That added some interesting twists to the story.
There were a few places that things didn't ring true. In Chapter 2 Dave says he has a "friend that has a construction business that will come take a look and see if he can find any other major issues"... and the friend didn't go in the attic??? To operate a B&B there would need to be some licensing and inspections by the township or state. If it hadn't been a B&B in a while, they would have to adhere to the newest codes, but no mention is made of any of that.
I found this book to be a little too sweet and perfect. It paints a sugar-coated, idealistic picture of running a B&B and makes Christmas look like a Hallmark movie, but not as well executed.
The only redeeming quality is the dispute with the neighbor. That added some interesting twists to the story.
March 31, 2021
Love to read books about old Inns and Inn at Cape May was very interesting especially about the secret room. In the secret room Margaret and her sister Liz find books related to the Inn next door to them. They knew the neighbors did not like them for some reason so with these ledgers they find out the reason. Margaret and Liz found out there was more to running a Bed and Breakfast than just opening. They discovered that The Seaside Inn needed lots of time and money to open before Christmas.
Margaret's friend helped them to fix up the old Inn to be ready for Christmas. Dave and Margaret's Liz helped with a surprise for her of a movie theater in the basement.
With all the help from family and friends they were able to have Christmas at the Seaside Inn. We lived in New Jersey for a while and got to visit many of the old homes but did not make it to Cape May.
Need to read all of the books about the Seaside Inn Series.
Margaret's friend helped them to fix up the old Inn to be ready for Christmas. Dave and Margaret's Liz helped with a surprise for her of a movie theater in the basement.
With all the help from family and friends they were able to have Christmas at the Seaside Inn. We lived in New Jersey for a while and got to visit many of the old homes but did not make it to Cape May.
Need to read all of the books about the Seaside Inn Series.
December 10, 2023
This was another cute story following book one. It takes place around Christmas and you could really get into the holiday spirit. Margaret and Liz get this B&B from their Aunt and Uncle but when they start to fix it up, they realize it’s in pretty bad condition. They recruit family and friends to renovate the place just in time for the holidays. There is this rivalry that has been occurring with their next door neighbors long before the sisters even gained ownership. The neighbors are nasty and unwilling to have a conversation until the sisters are filled in on what happened all those years ago and are able to make amends. This was a great holiday read. The only thing I didn’t quite understand is how the B&B was in such poor condition considering that the family reunion was held there just a few months prior. That was the only plot hole I found but other than that I enjoyed book two of the cape may series.
July 6, 2023
First book in the series was OK. Second book continues with mediocraty. No depth in character development. Jumps from one storyline to another without interesting transitions. Mr. Perfect Dave is boring. Don't appreciate the sugary characters. "Clean romance" equates to boring.
Already purchased two more books in the series - hoping I make it through them. I love Cape May - it's my happy place to go with my husband. Wish it more accurately embraced the life and vibracy of this Jersey shore point.
Already purchased two more books in the series - hoping I make it through them. I love Cape May - it's my happy place to go with my husband. Wish it more accurately embraced the life and vibracy of this Jersey shore point.
November 26, 2021
Two sisters are given a run down B&B in Cape May by their Aunt. As they begin to restore it, they think it might be too big of a project along with their other jobs, family and other responsibilites. Follow their lives as the restoration causes multiple problems in their lives. One of which is very unfriendly neighbors and no reason they can find for the neighbors hatred, mean, hurtful ways toward them.
November 9, 2023
I absolutely love the books I read written by Jennifer Probst. She's a favorite author of mine because she writes well with excellent storylines and likable characters. This novella was heartwarming. Shorter stories are so hard to write believable and this did not disappointed! I loved it. Jameson is Mr. Grinch/Scrooge, but had a huge heart. Devon is all about Christmas and loved challenging the bug city guy. They were perfect for each other. A beautiful HEA.
July 1, 2025
Another fun “escape” read. The plot is light but having vacationed at Cape May for over a dozen years I enjoyed reading about the Washington Street Mall, the horse drawn carriage rides and other familiar Cape activities.
I happen to love Christmas too so reading about all those decorations and baking & cooking details was lots of fun. But I can’t imagine one person making as many different dishes in one day as they managed here. Phew!!
Cute story
I happen to love Christmas too so reading about all those decorations and baking & cooking details was lots of fun. But I can’t imagine one person making as many different dishes in one day as they managed here. Phew!!
Cute story
June 22, 2021
Wonder Fun Christmas!!
I loved reading this book it was about a cozy Christmas and all the traditions and of course all the different families at the B&B and also all the wonderful food. And bringing back Dave's family farm and the vegetable fruit stand .This book is a great one to read.
I loved reading this book it was about a cozy Christmas and all the traditions and of course all the different families at the B&B and also all the wonderful food. And bringing back Dave's family farm and the vegetable fruit stand .This book is a great one to read.
July 11, 2022
As a resident of Cape May I am disappointed that the author doesn’t mention any of the hotels and other cape May landmarks by name. It’s obvious that she is talking about Congress Hall and the Christmas tree lighting but she doesn’t mention it by name. It’s a quick read but I was disappointed by the aforementioned. Not my favorite cape May book. Also, it was a very short book for the price.
April 5, 2025
The second book in the Cape May series continues the story of Margaret Wilder and her family as they embark on repairing and getting ready for Christmas at their B&B. A sweet fiction romance with a feel for the beautiful setting of Cape May. A definite break from reading thrillers. Hope to read the 3rd one soon.
Read
September 12, 2021Sweet, romantic Christmas sequel!
Another great read from Claudia Vance! A continuation of a romance story with great characters, values, and happy endings. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
Another great read from Claudia Vance! A continuation of a romance story with great characters, values, and happy endings. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
December 27, 2021
Love Cape May and have visited often. Story is simple and sweet—no murders or twists. This is like a Hallmark movie—good for a short stop on the way to Christmas. A relative of mine went there alone every March just for peace and quiet.
December 29, 2021
B&B adventures in remodeling
I loved this story,& couldn't put it down!These 2 sisters have quite the family connections! Getting family together to help get their old B&B open for the holidays,was quite an undertaking!
I loved this story,& couldn't put it down!These 2 sisters have quite the family connections! Getting family together to help get their old B&B open for the holidays,was quite an undertaking!
July 26, 2022
Christmas in Cape May
I grew up going to the Jersey Shore. Cape May was always so Special. Your book brought all those good memories back to me. Thank You. Love, Laughter, Family and Forgiveness. Loved all those Special Character!!!
I grew up going to the Jersey Shore. Cape May was always so Special. Your book brought all those good memories back to me. Thank You. Love, Laughter, Family and Forgiveness. Loved all those Special Character!!!
August 22, 2023
Cape May Memories
I grew up going to Cape May when I was young. Love reading about the big Victorian homes and landmarks. Brings back so many happy memories. Enjoy the stories with these loving sisters and their families. Dreams do come true.
I grew up going to Cape May when I was young. Love reading about the big Victorian homes and landmarks. Brings back so many happy memories. Enjoy the stories with these loving sisters and their families. Dreams do come true.
July 18, 2024
Nice series, we visited Cape May so I know many of the sights referenced. Quick reads I did in one day, nice wholesome story of family and friends coming together for the holidays not a great deal of drama more of forgiveness, fairness and moving forward through life's obstacles.
December 1, 2020
Really enjoyed this sweet story and looking forward to the next book in the series!
February 12, 2021
Oh my gosh
Oh my gosh really if your looking for a good read here you go ! I’m serious I read Both 1 and 2 in one Sitting it is that good !
Oh my gosh really if your looking for a good read here you go ! I’m serious I read Both 1 and 2 in one Sitting it is that good !
February 14, 2021
Totally enjoyable reading
Kept my attention throughout the book. It's an idyllic setting and wonderful characters. All of us should strive to be a Margaret.
Kept my attention throughout the book. It's an idyllic setting and wonderful characters. All of us should strive to be a Margaret.
February 26, 2021
Enjoyed series
April 4, 2021
I loved the second book in this series. Margaret and Liz have so much going on with trying to reopen the inn left to them. It is a clean book and very interesting. Can't wait for the 3rd one.
June 16, 2021
What happy tale
This a really good read! I was really looking forward to Christmas After finishing, somehow i was very hungry ,Thank
You very much
This a really good read! I was really looking forward to Christmas After finishing, somehow i was very hungry ,Thank
You very much
June 17, 2021
Syrup, pure syrup
If all you are interested in is sweetness and light, this book is for you. It can not be called a feel-good story because it is simply unbelievable.
If all you are interested in is sweetness and light, this book is for you. It can not be called a feel-good story because it is simply unbelievable.
July 2, 2021
Want a nice feel good book to read?
I loved this book! It was just as good as the first and I can’t wait for the next adventure!
I loved this book! It was just as good as the first and I can’t wait for the next adventure!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews