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Eliot's Corner, Maine #1
Barefoot in the Sand
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Maine coast, Holly Chamberlin’s novels are a summer staple. Now she weaves a heartfelt story of past and present summers and new beginnings, as a mother and daughter reconnect after decades apart . . . There are moments that change your entire life’s direction. For Arden Bell, owner of a cherished bookstore in the seaside hamlet of Eliot’s Corner, one such moment comes early on a summer day when she opens the door to Laura Huntington—the daughter she hasn’t seen in thirty-seven years. Not a day has passed in which Arden hasn’t thought of the baby she glimpsed only once before her wealthy, powerful parents forced her to give her up for adoption. Shy and sheltered, Arden finally mustered the courage to leave her Maine hometown of Port George, changed her name, and has barely seen her parents since. Nor has she heard from Rob, the boy she was so passionately in love with. Now Laura’s arrival, and her inevitable questions, will propel both women on a journey to forge a new relationship and unravel the past. Amid revelations and discoveries—sometimes painful, often unexpected—they will learn the truth about a long-ago summer, and about the risks we take and sacrifices we make for love.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2021
102 people are currently reading
1299 people want to read
About the author
Holly Chamberlin
38 books565 followersHolly Chamberlin is a native New Yorker, but she now lives in Portland, Maine - the aftermath of stumbling across Mr. Right at the one moment she wasn't watching the terrain. She's been writing and editing - poetry, children's fantasies, a romance novel or two, among many other genres and projects - her entire life. She has two cats, Betty and Cyrus, and when she's not writing her hobbies include reading, shopping, and cocktails at six.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 12, 2021
Great women’s fiction novel. The main character, Arden Bell, tells her story in present day and in flashbacks to 1984 when she was 18 years old. I really enjoyed Arden’s character which had to be well fleshed out for this story to make sense. As the story begins, readers meet Arden who owns Arden Forest, a lovely bookshop she inherited in the charming coastal town of Eliot’s Corner, Maine. She has three rescue cats to keep her company; and best friends, Deborah and Gordon, who’d do almost anything for her. Arden is deeply grateful for her blessings. She also has a secret.
Laura Huntington is looking for her birth mother. She knows she was adopted in the fall of 1984 and her adoptive parents are now deceased and she’s alone. Laura is smart and educated and her story is interesting as it chronicles the steps in her research that leads her to Arden.
The mystery for Arden is what happened to her baby’s father; and once Laura meets her birth mother, their mutual quest is to find out exactly how, and who murdered a lover and a father. Barefoot in the Sand is a gripping storyline, and I was surprised at the actual killer reveal. It was someone I hadn’t given much consideration. One note—The cover is somewhat confusing as there are no beach scenes in the story.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
Laura Huntington is looking for her birth mother. She knows she was adopted in the fall of 1984 and her adoptive parents are now deceased and she’s alone. Laura is smart and educated and her story is interesting as it chronicles the steps in her research that leads her to Arden.
The mystery for Arden is what happened to her baby’s father; and once Laura meets her birth mother, their mutual quest is to find out exactly how, and who murdered a lover and a father. Barefoot in the Sand is a gripping storyline, and I was surprised at the actual killer reveal. It was someone I hadn’t given much consideration. One note—The cover is somewhat confusing as there are no beach scenes in the story.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
August 30, 2021
Parts of this story were ok, which is why I am giving it 2 stars. Absolutely don't understand how a woman who was adopted by who were portrayed to be a lovely, loving couple, would feel such an urgent search for her biological parents? The Laura character, merely grated upon my nerves the entire book. And the author, never ceases to get so wordy and detailed about what everyone is having to eat and drink during every chat session in the book. Like she was being paid per word. Just seemed so very unnecessary. I also found it ridiculous that Laura accepted money from her grandfather, after learning of the crimes committed to her father, seemed very hypocritical for this character who sat in judgement about everyone and everything. This took too long to read, and I am relieved to be moving on to something else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2021
Loved it ! Couldn't put it down
August 15, 2021
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
I'm not 100% sure why, but I could not get into Barefoot in the Sand. The book's characters did not draw me in like most books do, their conversations didn't seem natural, and the whole plot wasn't believable for me. Things happened way to easily and quickly for Laura and I have many unanswered questions about Arden and her relationship with her parents. It took me so long to read it as I just wasn't interested, several times I almost didn't finish it... but I hate doing that, and I must say the last quarter of the book did improve greatly. The story's themes include first love, family, and forgiveness. This is the first novel by Holly Chamberlin that I have read and I probably wouldn't seek out another. Though I would not recommend this book, others seem to have enjoyed it, so hey, maybe give it a shot and see what you think!
I'm not 100% sure why, but I could not get into Barefoot in the Sand. The book's characters did not draw me in like most books do, their conversations didn't seem natural, and the whole plot wasn't believable for me. Things happened way to easily and quickly for Laura and I have many unanswered questions about Arden and her relationship with her parents. It took me so long to read it as I just wasn't interested, several times I almost didn't finish it... but I hate doing that, and I must say the last quarter of the book did improve greatly. The story's themes include first love, family, and forgiveness. This is the first novel by Holly Chamberlin that I have read and I probably wouldn't seek out another. Though I would not recommend this book, others seem to have enjoyed it, so hey, maybe give it a shot and see what you think!
July 30, 2022
More like a 2.5stars . Book opened at a good pace and the began to slow down. Towards the end it really stretched a lot, could have been edited better .
June 7, 2021
Blending a beach read's carefree writing with powerful prose, the shore's rocky past and present collide. At first glance, Laura Huntington and Arden Bell don't seem to have anything in common. Digging deeper, both have their heads in the sand trying to hide from the past. As readers page through the novel to discover the truth, they are riding an emotional roller coaster.
Struggling to come to terms with a painful divorce and loss of her adopted mother, Laura's life is drifting without direction. A clue hidden in her mother's files unleashes Laura's quest to find her birth mother. Putting together the pieces of her past, Laura finds herself in the seaside community of Eliot's Corner ringing the bell of Arden Forest Bookstore.
Writing a new page, Laura and Arden must unlock the secret of Rob's disappearance in order to put the past to rest. Will they discover the truth about Laura's father or create waves surfacing a sinister plot?
Thank you to #Netgally and Kensington Books for the early edition of #BarefootintheSand in exchange for an honest review. Chamberlin's charismatic characters leave readers eagerly awaiting her next novel. As a fan of the author's work, I looked forward to diving into her latest read and taking a trip to the coast.
Laura and Arden's fledgling relationship drew me into the story. I was swept away by their candor and openness to embrace the future despite hardships they endured.
The mark of a good book is that you can't put it down while not wanting it to end. This sizzling read is 'shore' to heat up summer.
"Our time will come to walk together barefoot in the sand." (Holly Chamberlin)
Struggling to come to terms with a painful divorce and loss of her adopted mother, Laura's life is drifting without direction. A clue hidden in her mother's files unleashes Laura's quest to find her birth mother. Putting together the pieces of her past, Laura finds herself in the seaside community of Eliot's Corner ringing the bell of Arden Forest Bookstore.
Writing a new page, Laura and Arden must unlock the secret of Rob's disappearance in order to put the past to rest. Will they discover the truth about Laura's father or create waves surfacing a sinister plot?
Thank you to #Netgally and Kensington Books for the early edition of #BarefootintheSand in exchange for an honest review. Chamberlin's charismatic characters leave readers eagerly awaiting her next novel. As a fan of the author's work, I looked forward to diving into her latest read and taking a trip to the coast.
Laura and Arden's fledgling relationship drew me into the story. I was swept away by their candor and openness to embrace the future despite hardships they endured.
The mark of a good book is that you can't put it down while not wanting it to end. This sizzling read is 'shore' to heat up summer.
"Our time will come to walk together barefoot in the sand." (Holly Chamberlin)
June 20, 2021
Barefoot in the Sand by Holly Chamberlin
One thing I always look forward to in the summer is the next book by Holly Chamberlin. Her books are always set in Maine, usually on the coast and to me just speak about summer. In this book, Barefoot in the Sand we meet Arden. She's a bookstore owner and a person with a mysterious past.
The story is told in a couple of time periods: present day and in the 1970s. The flashbacks are important parts of the story because they lead you into understanding the present story. One of the fascinating parts of the story is that there is a mystery tied up in what happened. I particularly like the character of Arden and her thoughtful gratefulness of the day’s blessings.
The other major character is Laura. She is searching for her birth mother and father. The faint information that Laura has gathered leads her on a quest in Maine to find her mother. Her dogged determination helps her stay on the path of searching.
I did like the two characters together, although I am not so sure I would so quickly capitulate my space to another. I did love the story and recognize the ending is appropriate for this novel. It is amazing to me how open some people are to class pressures, while at the same time, find it not surprising.
There is a strong storyline about mothers and daughters that will resonate with many readers. The book is less than a true mystery and more like a slow reveal. Barefoot in the Sand by Holly Chamberlin is a great read.
One thing I always look forward to in the summer is the next book by Holly Chamberlin. Her books are always set in Maine, usually on the coast and to me just speak about summer. In this book, Barefoot in the Sand we meet Arden. She's a bookstore owner and a person with a mysterious past.
The story is told in a couple of time periods: present day and in the 1970s. The flashbacks are important parts of the story because they lead you into understanding the present story. One of the fascinating parts of the story is that there is a mystery tied up in what happened. I particularly like the character of Arden and her thoughtful gratefulness of the day’s blessings.
The other major character is Laura. She is searching for her birth mother and father. The faint information that Laura has gathered leads her on a quest in Maine to find her mother. Her dogged determination helps her stay on the path of searching.
I did like the two characters together, although I am not so sure I would so quickly capitulate my space to another. I did love the story and recognize the ending is appropriate for this novel. It is amazing to me how open some people are to class pressures, while at the same time, find it not surprising.
There is a strong storyline about mothers and daughters that will resonate with many readers. The book is less than a true mystery and more like a slow reveal. Barefoot in the Sand by Holly Chamberlin is a great read.
May 19, 2021
This is my first time reading Holly Chamberlin and it will not be my last. The cover shows a beach but there are no beach scenes in the book, LOL, what?! Did not bother me, but something I wanted to point out. Arden and Laura are strong characters and well written. Their story was definitely the emotional center of the book. But there was also a killer, and this part kept me guessing, which is good so it was not predictable. This was not just a women's fiction book. It had suspense and mystery built in without it seeming like every other story. It also had family drama!
Highly recommended! I think I am getting this book at publishing, it was that good.
Thanks to Netgalley, Holly Chamberlin and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 6/29/21
Highly recommended! I think I am getting this book at publishing, it was that good.
Thanks to Netgalley, Holly Chamberlin and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 6/29/21
May 27, 2021
Barefoot in the Sand is a different kind of book. A mother and daughter are reunited after after almost 40 years. A mystery is finally solved. I thought the dialogue was decent. I thought the reunion of Arden and Laura was a little too perfect. Arden just seemed to be existing. I figured out a huge part of the plot early on. Some of the scenes seemed rather forced. I wondered why they just confront the parents about questions. There were many sad elements to it, but the ending was good. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the advance read.
July 18, 2021
A woman who has fled her home town and her parents. She’s forced to give up her baby and years later, Laura finds her. A touching story and a solid 3.5
July 15, 2021
This was a good book. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy.
June 28, 2021
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
A day hasn't gone by since Arden has thought about the baby she gave up for adoption....and grieved the boy that she was supposed to marry, who disappeared, and was never seen again. Arden always felt like her father may have had something to do with Rob's disappearance, but like Rob's family, she had no proof. So after she gave birth and gave the baby up for adoption under orders of her parents, she quietly slipped away, changed her identity and never saw them again. Now she has made a new and contented life for herself, owning a bookstore in a small seaside town. Then one day, her dream comes true and her grown daughter knocks on her door wanting to meet her. Laura Huntington, newly divorced and both of her adoptive parents now deceased, is looking for connections to her past. She wants to meet her birth parents. She meets Arden, but still longs to find out what happened to her father, so she goes digging for answers, knowing that she could very well be putting herself at danger if the person behind Rob' disappearance is still vested in keeping the past in the past.
This book was a little different than the author's usual book's in that it was part women's fiction and part mystery. She was able to do the mystery genre justice, and I enjoyed it just as much as I have all of her other books. The story was told in alternating parts between past and present, and the past had a very creepy, gothic vibe to it. I really enjoyed the antics of the three cats....the scenes were very realistic and always brought a smile. I found Laura tiresome at times, but really liked Arden and her friends. This is a very enjoyable book that would make a great addition to your beach reads list.
A day hasn't gone by since Arden has thought about the baby she gave up for adoption....and grieved the boy that she was supposed to marry, who disappeared, and was never seen again. Arden always felt like her father may have had something to do with Rob's disappearance, but like Rob's family, she had no proof. So after she gave birth and gave the baby up for adoption under orders of her parents, she quietly slipped away, changed her identity and never saw them again. Now she has made a new and contented life for herself, owning a bookstore in a small seaside town. Then one day, her dream comes true and her grown daughter knocks on her door wanting to meet her. Laura Huntington, newly divorced and both of her adoptive parents now deceased, is looking for connections to her past. She wants to meet her birth parents. She meets Arden, but still longs to find out what happened to her father, so she goes digging for answers, knowing that she could very well be putting herself at danger if the person behind Rob' disappearance is still vested in keeping the past in the past.
This book was a little different than the author's usual book's in that it was part women's fiction and part mystery. She was able to do the mystery genre justice, and I enjoyed it just as much as I have all of her other books. The story was told in alternating parts between past and present, and the past had a very creepy, gothic vibe to it. I really enjoyed the antics of the three cats....the scenes were very realistic and always brought a smile. I found Laura tiresome at times, but really liked Arden and her friends. This is a very enjoyable book that would make a great addition to your beach reads list.
June 7, 2021
Blending a beach read's carefree writing with powerful prose, the shore's rocky past and present collide. At first glance, Laura Huntington and Arden Bell don't seem to have anything in common. Digging deeper, both have their heads in the sand trying to hide from the past. As readers page through the novel to discover the truth, they are riding an emotional roller coaster.
Struggling to come to terms with a painful divorce and loss of her adopted mother, Laura's life is drifting without direction. A clue hidden in her mother's files unleashes Laura's quest to find her birth mother. Putting together the pieces of her past, Laura finds herself in the seaside community of Eliot's Corner ringing the bell of Arden Forest Bookstore.
Writing a new page, Laura and Arden must unlock the secret of Rob's disappearance in order to put the past to rest. Will they discover the truth about Laura's father or create waves surfacing a sinister plot?
Thank you to #Netgally and Kensington Books for the early edition of #BarefootintheSand in exchange for an honest review. Chamberlin's charismatic characters leave readers eagerly awaiting her next novel. As a fan of the author's work, I looked forward to diving into her latest read and taking a trip to the coast.
Laura and Arden's fledgling relationship drew me into the story. I was swept away by their candor and openness to embrace the future despite hardships they endured.
The mark of a good book is that you can't put it down while not wanting it to end. This sizzling read is 'shore' to heat up summer.
"Our time will come to walk together barefoot in the sand." (Holly Chamberlin)
Struggling to come to terms with a painful divorce and loss of her adopted mother, Laura's life is drifting without direction. A clue hidden in her mother's files unleashes Laura's quest to find her birth mother. Putting together the pieces of her past, Laura finds herself in the seaside community of Eliot's Corner ringing the bell of Arden Forest Bookstore.
Writing a new page, Laura and Arden must unlock the secret of Rob's disappearance in order to put the past to rest. Will they discover the truth about Laura's father or create waves surfacing a sinister plot?
Thank you to #Netgally and Kensington Books for the early edition of #BarefootintheSand in exchange for an honest review. Chamberlin's charismatic characters leave readers eagerly awaiting her next novel. As a fan of the author's work, I looked forward to diving into her latest read and taking a trip to the coast.
Laura and Arden's fledgling relationship drew me into the story. I was swept away by their candor and openness to embrace the future despite hardships they endured.
The mark of a good book is that you can't put it down while not wanting it to end. This sizzling read is 'shore' to heat up summer.
"Our time will come to walk together barefoot in the sand." (Holly Chamberlin)
November 9, 2023
Barefoot in the Sand by Holly Chamberlain is the first book in the Eliot’s Corner, Maine series. There are moments that define your life and can drastically change its course. Arden Bell has had those moments. Now she lives a quiet life as the owner of a bookstore in the small seaside town of Eliot’s Corner. She never thought the day would come when her life would take another turn until she opens her door to the daughter she gave up for adoption so many years ago. Laura Huntington is on the hunt to find her birth parents after the deaths of her adoptive parents and the end of her bitter marriage. Her appearance in Maine opens doors to the past and questions that everyone has been afraid to ask. Will the truth be revealed and the ghosts of the past finally put to rest?
This book is my first by Holly Chamberlain and it probably won’t be my last. Barefoot in the Sand is a heartfelt story of past and present intertwining in a summer of new beginnings for a mother and daughter. Switching perspectives between Arden and Laura, readers learn about the summer that shaped their lives and a mystery that haunts them. From the opening chapter to the closing pages, this fast paced story hooks you in as a young woman fights against the strangling ties of her parents and the young man who sets her free. It is a story of a reunion between mother and daughter with a bit of a mystery and intrigue. My only complaint is the confrontation between Arden and a couple characters that fell flat for me. I look forward to reading more in this series. I recommend Barefoot in the Sand.
Barefoot in the Sand is available in paperback and eBook
This book is my first by Holly Chamberlain and it probably won’t be my last. Barefoot in the Sand is a heartfelt story of past and present intertwining in a summer of new beginnings for a mother and daughter. Switching perspectives between Arden and Laura, readers learn about the summer that shaped their lives and a mystery that haunts them. From the opening chapter to the closing pages, this fast paced story hooks you in as a young woman fights against the strangling ties of her parents and the young man who sets her free. It is a story of a reunion between mother and daughter with a bit of a mystery and intrigue. My only complaint is the confrontation between Arden and a couple characters that fell flat for me. I look forward to reading more in this series. I recommend Barefoot in the Sand.
Barefoot in the Sand is available in paperback and eBook
January 4, 2023
i have read many of Holly's books and always enjoyed them. I usually love her descriptions of the scenery in her books, the food, the characters she manages to create but I struggled with this one a bit.
I think like most people have said, I liked the beginning of the book. It opened well, it brought me in, and I wanted to know what it was happening. The middle really dragged for me though. I was constantly going "get on with it" because I felt it was too much of everything, too much description, too much details, all of it felt like it was adding to the overall page total, rather than enhancing the overall story. I know some have said you would never guess who killed Rob Smith but, really, I guessed fairly early on. Maybe that is me reading too many true crime or murder mysteries but I thought it was very obvious who killed Rob. Maybe not as obvious how he was killed but, from the first few pages, I knew and I guessed where his body likely was. So, for me, that part of the story was really lacking. I did enjoy the ending though, and thought it brought the entire story together well.
Overall, it was a good read. it would not turn me off Holly's books. In fact, I went through my shelf and added the ones I was missing to my amazon book list to pick up when I can but, I will say, I did not think this was one of her bests. Also, like someone else also mentioned, I did not get the book title or the book cover. It seemed to make little sense to the overall storyline.
I think like most people have said, I liked the beginning of the book. It opened well, it brought me in, and I wanted to know what it was happening. The middle really dragged for me though. I was constantly going "get on with it" because I felt it was too much of everything, too much description, too much details, all of it felt like it was adding to the overall page total, rather than enhancing the overall story. I know some have said you would never guess who killed Rob Smith but, really, I guessed fairly early on. Maybe that is me reading too many true crime or murder mysteries but I thought it was very obvious who killed Rob. Maybe not as obvious how he was killed but, from the first few pages, I knew and I guessed where his body likely was. So, for me, that part of the story was really lacking. I did enjoy the ending though, and thought it brought the entire story together well.
Overall, it was a good read. it would not turn me off Holly's books. In fact, I went through my shelf and added the ones I was missing to my amazon book list to pick up when I can but, I will say, I did not think this was one of her bests. Also, like someone else also mentioned, I did not get the book title or the book cover. It seemed to make little sense to the overall storyline.
May 31, 2021
I received an ARC of Barefoot in the Sand in exchange for an honest review. I have always been a fan of Holly Chamberlin and I enjoyed this book.
On the surface, I would classify this book as a beach read with a "kick." There's some intrigue, family drama, murder, secrets and twists.
Our two main characters are Arden Bell and Laura Huntington. Arden left home, broken all ties with her family and hidden her true identify from everyone after being forced to give up her baby girl at birth almost 40 years ago. She now lives in Eliot's Corner and operates a bookstore, Arden Forest. Laura is on a quest to find her birth mother and father now that her adoptive parents are deceased and she is recently divorced - feeling very much alone in the world. Laura slowly puts the pieces of this mystery together under the guise of developing a podcast on the impacts on a town after someone has gone missing.
Eventually Laura's research leads her to Arden and they both join forces to determine what happened to Laura's birth father and Arden's one, true love. As the story unfolds, we learn more about the events leading up to the forced adoption of Laura and the challenging relationship Arden had with her parents. We also learn that image continues to mean everything to Arden's parents and the extreme measures they will invoke to maintain their image and status.
On the surface, I would classify this book as a beach read with a "kick." There's some intrigue, family drama, murder, secrets and twists.
Our two main characters are Arden Bell and Laura Huntington. Arden left home, broken all ties with her family and hidden her true identify from everyone after being forced to give up her baby girl at birth almost 40 years ago. She now lives in Eliot's Corner and operates a bookstore, Arden Forest. Laura is on a quest to find her birth mother and father now that her adoptive parents are deceased and she is recently divorced - feeling very much alone in the world. Laura slowly puts the pieces of this mystery together under the guise of developing a podcast on the impacts on a town after someone has gone missing.
Eventually Laura's research leads her to Arden and they both join forces to determine what happened to Laura's birth father and Arden's one, true love. As the story unfolds, we learn more about the events leading up to the forced adoption of Laura and the challenging relationship Arden had with her parents. We also learn that image continues to mean everything to Arden's parents and the extreme measures they will invoke to maintain their image and status.
July 7, 2021
Barefoot in the Sand is the latest addition to the Holly Chamberlin catalog. Arden Bell has taken up residence in Eliot’s Corner, Maine, and has become the owner/manager of the local bookstore as well as the homeowner of Junipers End. Her life is comfortable, she has a few close friends, and is respected in the community. But Arden still runs scared of the life she left behind.
As a young woman, Arden, then known as Victoria Aldridge, met Rob Smith while browsing the library series shelves. They had an instant connection making for a stolen summer of time shared and secret kisses. But Rob was from a working class family and Victoria was from the upper crust with parents who would never allow them to be together. When Victoria became pregnant with Rob’s child he mysteriously disappeared and she was sent to a home for unwed mothers and forced to give her child up for adoption. When Arden’s daughter shows up over three decades later trying to piece her family history together and find her birth parents, mother and daughter bond in a quest to discover the truth.
This is a most interesting tale with many facets: overbearing parents, loss, being reunited after a long separation, and finding the truth. This story carries out its mission perfectly! I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
As a young woman, Arden, then known as Victoria Aldridge, met Rob Smith while browsing the library series shelves. They had an instant connection making for a stolen summer of time shared and secret kisses. But Rob was from a working class family and Victoria was from the upper crust with parents who would never allow them to be together. When Victoria became pregnant with Rob’s child he mysteriously disappeared and she was sent to a home for unwed mothers and forced to give her child up for adoption. When Arden’s daughter shows up over three decades later trying to piece her family history together and find her birth parents, mother and daughter bond in a quest to discover the truth.
This is a most interesting tale with many facets: overbearing parents, loss, being reunited after a long separation, and finding the truth. This story carries out its mission perfectly! I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
July 3, 2021
Barefoot in the Sand
I had not read this author before and knew not what to expect. What I got was a great light and easy beach read. I will definitely read more from Holly Chamberlain and love the idea that there are crossovers in her novels.
I read this book in one day and had a wonderful time doing so. The plot was engaging and well paced. We get inside the head of mother and daughter as they find they way back to each other and deal with past decisions they each have made. The book is well written and doesn’t take too much focus to follow unlike many recent reads where I felt like I had to keep notes on who was who. Considering there are multiple viewpoints and timelines that is quite an accomplishment. If you need to like your characters there are many to love and a few to hate in this book. Even the evil will be understood and by the end. This is an empathetic author who understands the human heart and will leave you with a sense of hope for humankind.
The setting made me long for the coast! The sense of place and the sense of where and what the concept of home is was strong. Themes such as motherhood, parenting, friends as family are all set around a shared interest in reading and a bookstore. What’s not to love?
Thanks Kensington Books and Net Galley for introducing me to another author.
I had not read this author before and knew not what to expect. What I got was a great light and easy beach read. I will definitely read more from Holly Chamberlain and love the idea that there are crossovers in her novels.
I read this book in one day and had a wonderful time doing so. The plot was engaging and well paced. We get inside the head of mother and daughter as they find they way back to each other and deal with past decisions they each have made. The book is well written and doesn’t take too much focus to follow unlike many recent reads where I felt like I had to keep notes on who was who. Considering there are multiple viewpoints and timelines that is quite an accomplishment. If you need to like your characters there are many to love and a few to hate in this book. Even the evil will be understood and by the end. This is an empathetic author who understands the human heart and will leave you with a sense of hope for humankind.
The setting made me long for the coast! The sense of place and the sense of where and what the concept of home is was strong. Themes such as motherhood, parenting, friends as family are all set around a shared interest in reading and a bookstore. What’s not to love?
Thanks Kensington Books and Net Galley for introducing me to another author.
September 15, 2021
Set off the coast of Maine, Barefoot In The Sand is a bit of a departure for Holly. It’s part whodunit along with a cast of somewhat flawed characters. The mystery element is second to the raw emotional component. The family aspect and the great lengths they will go to protect it are what drives the story along. A new found young love and the repercussions of that love haunt Victoria (Arden)for years to come. Her choices along with her families decisions set in motion a life of what if’s. Family relationships and dynamics of which we all face at some point in our lives propel the Aldridge family into a life of cover ups and regret.Unfortunately when faced with tragedy and situations we don’t know how to handle we can become unraveled such as the case here. The pains we experienced in life often manifests itself in a myriad of ways throughout our lives. Can we forgive the injustices done? Will we find love again and not be forever haunted by the past? I think when the tapestry unfolds we can see our loved ones in a different light. I loved Arden for her resilience and determination. I think Eliot’s Corner and Arden Forest bookstore will long stay with me. Thank you #NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own. #BarefootInTheSand.
May 28, 2021
*****Coming out June 29, 2020*****
Thanks to Kensington and Netgalley, I was chosen as an early reviewer!
Barefoot in the sand draws you in as you follow along Laura’s journey to find her birth mother. Laura’s adoptive mother leaves her a sealed envelope after she dies, giving her clues on who her birth mother is. Laura is divorced and has no other family left, so she decides to travel to Point Gorge, Maine, inorder to try to find her birth mom. Laura goes about it in a reporter type style by asking around this small town. Will she be able to find her mom and finally get the answers she is looking for?
Victoria Aldridge, who now goes by the name Arden Bell owns a bookstore in Point Gorge, Maine. This story goes back and forth between present day and her life of getting pregnant as a teen in the 80’s and what she had to do in order to not disgrace her wealthy family. Will she and Laura find each other in this small town?
A deeply thought provoking novel that explores adoption, love, loss, forgiveness, and second chances. A book that keeps you thinking about it long after it’s done. A great pick for book clubs!
May 24, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to review this title.
I really enjoyed this one! There was no foul language which is always a plus. Also, the small-knit community was perfect for this story and the characters were very lovable. It did go back and forth between decades, however, it was more as needed and not every other chapter. The story was weaved together well and the story from 1984 was kept to a minimal addition, which I loved!
Arden, the bookshop owner was an amazing character who was easy to follow and understand. The family secrets added a lot to this story and I really was able to get lost in these characters. Laura was probably my favorite though. She wanted to get to the bottom of everything and understand what had happened in her past. The other characters added to the story, but they remained in the backdrop mostly which is how I prefer it. When authors can create a heart-warming mystery and focus on just a few characters to make the story irresistible.
Great story and well-written, as well.
I really enjoyed this one! There was no foul language which is always a plus. Also, the small-knit community was perfect for this story and the characters were very lovable. It did go back and forth between decades, however, it was more as needed and not every other chapter. The story was weaved together well and the story from 1984 was kept to a minimal addition, which I loved!
Arden, the bookshop owner was an amazing character who was easy to follow and understand. The family secrets added a lot to this story and I really was able to get lost in these characters. Laura was probably my favorite though. She wanted to get to the bottom of everything and understand what had happened in her past. The other characters added to the story, but they remained in the backdrop mostly which is how I prefer it. When authors can create a heart-warming mystery and focus on just a few characters to make the story irresistible.
Great story and well-written, as well.
June 11, 2021
Arden was young when she got pregnant and her parents forced her to give the baby up for adoption. Arden moved away, changed her name, and was the owner of a bookstore. Laura Huntington is looking for her birth mother and comes to the bookstore. It is the daughter she hasn't seen in thirty-seven years. Together they try to figure out what happened to Rob, the man that Arden loved. As they look for answers in the past, they bring it into the present, which they will have to deal with.
This is a book, that explores adoption, searching for a parent or child, answers many questions, and what happens when they find the answers. Sometimes you have to find the courage to go back and find out what happened in your past, and as you do, you have no idea if it will make things better or worse, heal you or make you wish you didn't do it.
I received an ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley.
This is a book, that explores adoption, searching for a parent or child, answers many questions, and what happens when they find the answers. Sometimes you have to find the courage to go back and find out what happened in your past, and as you do, you have no idea if it will make things better or worse, heal you or make you wish you didn't do it.
I received an ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley.
June 6, 2021
This is a book about family secrets, mystery, and romance. It’s not a romance novel, but romance is at the heart of the book. Arden Bell is defined by an incident that happened when she was 18 years old. She became pregnant and was coerced by her parents into going to a home for unwed mother and giving up her baby. When her adult child, Laura Huntington, goes looking for her birth mother, she gets a lot more than she bargained for when she finds Arden. Laura���s father, Rob, disappeared just as Arden was sent away to have her baby, and mother and daughter team up to try and find out what happened to him. It was obvious to me early on who was responsible for his disappearance, but when this question is finally answered, the events that follow are shocking. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in return for my honest review.
November 20, 2021
Love an Heartbreak
What a wonderful story of love an the.search of finding the truth. The painstaking truth of the.lengths that social status causes the wealthy to hide and alienate their flesh and blood for appearance sake. The truth that money cannot by happiness but can by corruption. You can only hide things for.so long before someone with a vested interest decides to open old wounds and decides to get to the bottom of the truth. Will the skeletons be revealed? Who is this new person that lost her parents and started this quest? When she has all the pieces what will she decide to do? Stay? Go?
The story flashes back and forth telling one woman's story of a life she was robbed of because of her parents social status. It was weaved in tastefully and not over done. I enjoyed this heartbreaking story with a satisfactory ending very much!
What a wonderful story of love an the.search of finding the truth. The painstaking truth of the.lengths that social status causes the wealthy to hide and alienate their flesh and blood for appearance sake. The truth that money cannot by happiness but can by corruption. You can only hide things for.so long before someone with a vested interest decides to open old wounds and decides to get to the bottom of the truth. Will the skeletons be revealed? Who is this new person that lost her parents and started this quest? When she has all the pieces what will she decide to do? Stay? Go?
The story flashes back and forth telling one woman's story of a life she was robbed of because of her parents social status. It was weaved in tastefully and not over done. I enjoyed this heartbreaking story with a satisfactory ending very much!
August 2, 2022
In 1984, "rich girl" Victoria Aldridge becomes pregnant by middle class Rob Smith. Victoria and Rob share a love of literature and plan to run away together but alas Victoria does not have the courage to stand up to her overbearing parents. Rob disappears and is never heard from again and the case grows cold. In present day Victoria re events herself as Arden Forrest and is the successful owner of a rare book store. she always regrets giving her child up for adoption. Laura Covington is adopted and after the death of her adopted parents finds a letter giving a clue to her birth mother. One day Laura shows up on Arden's door step and they slowly navigate past and present to solve the mystery of Rob's vanishing. Part beach read, part mystery, and most of all a love letter to books.
September 3, 2024
FYI despite the title and cover, this book has nothing to do with the beach or summertime.
Arden is in her 50’s and is the owner of an independent bookstore in quaint Eliot’s Corner, Maine. She leads a quiet and happy life but despite her 2 friends and 3 cats she “keeps herself to herself.”
Laura Huntington is recovering from a nasty divorce when she decides to search for a long lost family member. A clue leads her to Point George, Maine and later to Arden’s bookstore. As Laura solves one mystery, another one surfaces that Arden is equally invested in solving.
…Note to self…
It’s probably just me, but some of the dialogue fell a little flat or just didn’t ring true, especially Laura’s.
Arden is in her 50’s and is the owner of an independent bookstore in quaint Eliot’s Corner, Maine. She leads a quiet and happy life but despite her 2 friends and 3 cats she “keeps herself to herself.”
Laura Huntington is recovering from a nasty divorce when she decides to search for a long lost family member. A clue leads her to Point George, Maine and later to Arden’s bookstore. As Laura solves one mystery, another one surfaces that Arden is equally invested in solving.
…Note to self…
It’s probably just me, but some of the dialogue fell a little flat or just didn’t ring true, especially Laura’s.
June 12, 2021
Arden has built a business and a good life in Maine but that's not her real name and she's never not for a minute, forgotten the daughter she was forced to give up at birth. Laura is that child and she's found Arden at a time in her life when she really needs someone to care about her. Told in Arden's past and present,. it's also the story of Rob, Arden's love won was Laura's father. He disappeared right as Arden's wealthy and hateful family sent her away. What happened to him? It's not a hard call but it is twisty enough to keep you guessing. Yes there's a ester here but the charm is the relationship between Arden and Laura. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read.
June 22, 2021
Oh my…..what a complicated story! Talk about family drama and deep seated secrets.
The story revolves around Arden Bell and what happened to her when she was 18 years old.
I’m really not sure how I feel about the story as many parts of it just seemed too easy or, I guess things just seemed to go too perfect. Others situations just seemed too unreal. It’s hard to explain.
Overall, Barefoot in the Sand is a emotional charged story with enough twists to keep you engaged in the story.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
The story revolves around Arden Bell and what happened to her when she was 18 years old.
I’m really not sure how I feel about the story as many parts of it just seemed too easy or, I guess things just seemed to go too perfect. Others situations just seemed too unreal. It’s hard to explain.
Overall, Barefoot in the Sand is a emotional charged story with enough twists to keep you engaged in the story.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 24, 2021
Not quite what I was expecting, but it went beyond what I though was going to happen.
I loved how from just a tiny bit of information a whole world gets opened up for both women and unresolved issues get laid to rest and answers are found to questions that are over 30 years old.
I especially loved how books were a central character in this book too - important to all the lead characters and almost a path of uniting the whole story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me the chance to read this book.
I loved how from just a tiny bit of information a whole world gets opened up for both women and unresolved issues get laid to rest and answers are found to questions that are over 30 years old.
I especially loved how books were a central character in this book too - important to all the lead characters and almost a path of uniting the whole story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me the chance to read this book.
December 23, 2021
This book was not really my cup of tea - it felt long, took me a long time to read (only kept reading to get see how it ended) and I really didn't warm to either main character, which is problematic with this type of book. The mystery element was not very "mysterious" tbh and the more emotional storylines (young love, teen pregnancy, adoption, reunion of mother and daughter) did not engage me at all (see comment about not warming to the main characters), in all likelihood due to the overly detailed and somewhat repetitive descriptions of how they were FEELING.
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