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Camden Cove #3
The Restaurant by the Cove
She escapes from her husband and lands in the arms of another. He's ready to love and protect her from the past. But, is she ready to let him or will she become his next lost love?
Previously published as, "Safe with You."
Rachael has had enough of her abusive husband and one night she decides to fight back. Fearful of what she’s done, she flees to the small seacoast town of Camden Cove, where her grandfather lives.
Jack is quiet and reserved, avoiding relationships because of his past. But, that all changes when a beautiful stranger comes into his restaurant to escape the rain. He falls for Rachel immediately and after noticing her bruises he feels compelled to protect her from whatever she’s running from.
Rachel thinks Jack seems safe and she does feel something for him, but her instincts have been wrong before and she isn’t going to make the same mistake twice. Jack is finally ready to open up and get close to someone, but it seems he’s interested in the one person in town that’s afraid to find love. To complicate things further, Rachel and Jack start to suspect that her husband may not be out of her life.
Jack knows he’s right for Rachel, but can he convince her to trust love again? Or, will they both end up alone, afraid to leave their pasts behind?
Previously published as, "Safe with You."
Rachael has had enough of her abusive husband and one night she decides to fight back. Fearful of what she’s done, she flees to the small seacoast town of Camden Cove, where her grandfather lives.
Jack is quiet and reserved, avoiding relationships because of his past. But, that all changes when a beautiful stranger comes into his restaurant to escape the rain. He falls for Rachel immediately and after noticing her bruises he feels compelled to protect her from whatever she’s running from.
Rachel thinks Jack seems safe and she does feel something for him, but her instincts have been wrong before and she isn’t going to make the same mistake twice. Jack is finally ready to open up and get close to someone, but it seems he’s interested in the one person in town that’s afraid to find love. To complicate things further, Rachel and Jack start to suspect that her husband may not be out of her life.
Jack knows he’s right for Rachel, but can he convince her to trust love again? Or, will they both end up alone, afraid to leave their pasts behind?
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2019
About the author
Ellen Joy
42 books141 followersEllen lives in a small town in New England, between the Atlantic Ocean and the White Mountains. She lives with her husband, two sons, and one very spoiled puppy princess.
Ellen writes in the early morning hours before her family wakes up. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, gardening with her puppy and chickens, or headed to the beach. She loves summer and flip-flops, running on a dirt country road, and a sweet love song.
All of her stories are clean romances where families are close, neighbors are nosy, and the couples are destined for each other.
Join Ellen Joy's newsletter to connect with Ellen and receive updates!
http://www.ellenjoyauthor.com
Ellen writes in the early morning hours before her family wakes up. When she's not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, gardening with her puppy and chickens, or headed to the beach. She loves summer and flip-flops, running on a dirt country road, and a sweet love song.
All of her stories are clean romances where families are close, neighbors are nosy, and the couples are destined for each other.
Join Ellen Joy's newsletter to connect with Ellen and receive updates!
http://www.ellenjoyauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 18, 2024
I like this series for the light Hallmark-y stories, but this one kind of just got tiresome. I finished it but the main characters went around around in circles for most of the book, all to come together in the last chapter or two. I feel like a lot could’ve been solved with just a little more communication. But I guess then there wouldn’t have been a book. This was my least favorite of the ones I’ve read in this series though.
October 11, 2023
So good 4.5!
August 20, 2024
Camden Cove/Perkins Cove Maine
Rachael an abused wife, after getting a good beating she runs from Nick her husband and takes a bus to where her Gpa lived she hadn’t seen him for 20 yrs. When she pulls into town it’s poring down rain. She goes to where there are cars and walks into a wedding.
Jack the owner of the restaurant and brother of the bride. Sees her come in and goes to her. He sees the bruises on her face and offers her to go to the employee room to dry off and he’d got her something to eat. She is sharp to him not trusting at all. She goes to check into the Inn.
Then Jack sees her the next day, she tells him thanks for the help last night. He asks if she is staying and offers her a job. She says no, and continues through town looking for a job. She doesn’t trust herself with him. He’s to nice, nice guys hurt you too. She goes to her Gpa bar, when he sees her he’s gruff to her as he thinks she just want to use him. But he tells her to work that night and she looks for a place to stay. Jack tells her the apt over the restaurant is available she says no. She won’t let him help her. They all know she is hiding something someone.
Jack tells her of a trail to walk, she finds a dog that’s skidish. Over time he comes to her to eat she comes to feed him everyday. She does take the apt from Jack.
A storm is coming in Maine ya have to get ready. As it turns cold. Everyone putting covers on the widows. Rachel has to go find the dog when she finds him he’s hurt jack’s sister is a vet and he take the dog there. They fight over who is going to pay for it. The sister tells Rachel to come stay with her through the storm. While there Jack stays over too and they all have a good time playing cards and talking. She lets her guard down some.
When the storm is over she goes back to her apt and knows someone has been in there she thinks it’s her ex. She has to leave.
She tells Elizabeth and her husband Adam what’s going on and they help her file papers and gets her into hiding. She goes to a farm and works for Maggie taking care of animals.
Jack comes to see her there, they kiss and he tells her he loves her. Nick finds out where she is and goes looking for her. She’s come back to Camden Cove and is in the apt. She comes home he attacked her Jack comes in Nick shots him. Cops get there takes Nick away. Rachel is safe. Jack asks her to marry him.
Rachael an abused wife, after getting a good beating she runs from Nick her husband and takes a bus to where her Gpa lived she hadn’t seen him for 20 yrs. When she pulls into town it’s poring down rain. She goes to where there are cars and walks into a wedding.
Jack the owner of the restaurant and brother of the bride. Sees her come in and goes to her. He sees the bruises on her face and offers her to go to the employee room to dry off and he’d got her something to eat. She is sharp to him not trusting at all. She goes to check into the Inn.
Then Jack sees her the next day, she tells him thanks for the help last night. He asks if she is staying and offers her a job. She says no, and continues through town looking for a job. She doesn’t trust herself with him. He’s to nice, nice guys hurt you too. She goes to her Gpa bar, when he sees her he’s gruff to her as he thinks she just want to use him. But he tells her to work that night and she looks for a place to stay. Jack tells her the apt over the restaurant is available she says no. She won’t let him help her. They all know she is hiding something someone.
Jack tells her of a trail to walk, she finds a dog that’s skidish. Over time he comes to her to eat she comes to feed him everyday. She does take the apt from Jack.
A storm is coming in Maine ya have to get ready. As it turns cold. Everyone putting covers on the widows. Rachel has to go find the dog when she finds him he’s hurt jack’s sister is a vet and he take the dog there. They fight over who is going to pay for it. The sister tells Rachel to come stay with her through the storm. While there Jack stays over too and they all have a good time playing cards and talking. She lets her guard down some.
When the storm is over she goes back to her apt and knows someone has been in there she thinks it’s her ex. She has to leave.
She tells Elizabeth and her husband Adam what’s going on and they help her file papers and gets her into hiding. She goes to a farm and works for Maggie taking care of animals.
Jack comes to see her there, they kiss and he tells her he loves her. Nick finds out where she is and goes looking for her. She’s come back to Camden Cove and is in the apt. She comes home he attacked her Jack comes in Nick shots him. Cops get there takes Nick away. Rachel is safe. Jack asks her to marry him.
March 31, 2024
Ellen Joy's "The Restaurant by the Cove" is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that delves into the complexities of domestic abuse while also weaving a poignant narrative of coming home and discovering love. Joy's masterful storytelling and nuanced character development make this book a must-read for fans of heartfelt contemporary fiction. This author once again amazed me by her handling of the difficult topic of domestic abuse. With sensitivity and depth, she explores the impact of abuse on individuals and families, shedding light on the struggles and challenges faced by survivors. Through the characters' experiences, Joy highlights the resilience and strength needed to break free from toxic relationships and rebuild one's life. The theme of coming home resonates throughout the novel, offering a sense of hope and redemption to the characters and readers alike. The author skillfully portrays the journey of self-discovery and healing as the main characters confront their pasts and strive to create a brighter future. The coastal setting of the story adds a layer of charm and nostalgia, enhancing the theme of finding solace and belonging in familiar places.
This third book in the series is a powerful and emotional love story that unfolds against the backdrop of adversity. The characters are relatable and authentic, drawing readers into their lives and making their triumphs and struggles all the more impactful. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, creating moments of warmth, passion, and vulnerability that will tug at the heartstrings of readers.
Overall, "The Restaurant by the Cove" is a gem of a novel that tackles important themes with grace and authenticity. Ellen Joy's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this captivating tale of love, resilience, and the power of home. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a meaningful and unforgettable read. This series has been such a pleasure to read, It is one that should be in every book lover's collection.
Happy Reading...Enjoy!
This third book in the series is a powerful and emotional love story that unfolds against the backdrop of adversity. The characters are relatable and authentic, drawing readers into their lives and making their triumphs and struggles all the more impactful. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, creating moments of warmth, passion, and vulnerability that will tug at the heartstrings of readers.
Overall, "The Restaurant by the Cove" is a gem of a novel that tackles important themes with grace and authenticity. Ellen Joy's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this captivating tale of love, resilience, and the power of home. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a meaningful and unforgettable read. This series has been such a pleasure to read, It is one that should be in every book lover's collection.
Happy Reading...Enjoy!
December 30, 2019
I enjoyed Rachel and Jack's story for the most part. I enjoyed seeing the towns folk of Camden Cove again - except one thing. I adored Elizabeth in the first book. She was awesome, but early on in the second book she gives Jack a hard time about not letting Matt (their brother) stay at an apartment he's just rented to someone else. She was sorta mean about it and that was out of character for her in my view.
I liked watching Rachel overcome her past (or at least try to). At times Jack came on a little strong with the "Let me help you" stuff, but it didn't cross the line to creepy entirely. But it almost did.
If not for those two things this book would've been a 5 star read for me. I'll still read the next book in the series, but I hope none of the characters do weird 'out of character' things.
This book was more of a 'mystery' to solve romance and less a lot less cozy than the first one.
I liked watching Rachel overcome her past (or at least try to). At times Jack came on a little strong with the "Let me help you" stuff, but it didn't cross the line to creepy entirely. But it almost did.
If not for those two things this book would've been a 5 star read for me. I'll still read the next book in the series, but I hope none of the characters do weird 'out of character' things.
This book was more of a 'mystery' to solve romance and less a lot less cozy than the first one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2023
Though not the same, this book reminded me of Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks. This is a story about an abused wife who is married to a police officer. After a particularly vicious attack, she manages to escape and flees to Camden Cove, a place she lived as a small child. Bruised, battered, and soaking wet from a downpour, she stumbles into a restaurant where she meets the owner, Jack. He's smitten and wants to help her, but she's skittish and proud - refusing any kind of charity. She also looks up her grandfather, Finn, who owns the local bar.
This book had me from the beginning and I stayed up into the wee hours to finish it. I enjoyed it immensely. A sweet, clean romance with lots of action.
This book had me from the beginning and I stayed up into the wee hours to finish it. I enjoyed it immensely. A sweet, clean romance with lots of action.
September 10, 2022
Jack and Rachael
Book three this series is set in a small town by the sea but it's focused on a family the Williams jack and Sarah have 4 kids we have seen Elizabeth find love and cousin Zoe we have heard about matt running of to marry Jack's ex girlfriend and it's been down hill for Matt (his story next book) this book jack who is a workaholic finds love but this women is in business more drama until she learns to trust the good people of the cove.
Reading this book I think I have read this series before I had that feeling with the last book so not sure if this author has gone under a different name before but I knew this story.
Book three this series is set in a small town by the sea but it's focused on a family the Williams jack and Sarah have 4 kids we have seen Elizabeth find love and cousin Zoe we have heard about matt running of to marry Jack's ex girlfriend and it's been down hill for Matt (his story next book) this book jack who is a workaholic finds love but this women is in business more drama until she learns to trust the good people of the cove.
Reading this book I think I have read this series before I had that feeling with the last book so not sure if this author has gone under a different name before but I knew this story.
August 16, 2025
Camden Cove? I want to visit there.
Yet another example of finding love in Camden Cove. I can absolutely hear the waves crashing as I read these stories. I can nearly smell and taste the salty sea air. But what I love most is the characters in this series. They feel real to me. I was particularly rooting for Jack and Rachael in this story. Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is worth it all in the end.
These stories are clean. However, this particular one deals with domestic abuse and abuse of power. So if that is triggering for you, here’s your heads up. Recommended for those who enjoy a “H*llmark” moment.
Yet another example of finding love in Camden Cove. I can absolutely hear the waves crashing as I read these stories. I can nearly smell and taste the salty sea air. But what I love most is the characters in this series. They feel real to me. I was particularly rooting for Jack and Rachael in this story. Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is worth it all in the end.
These stories are clean. However, this particular one deals with domestic abuse and abuse of power. So if that is triggering for you, here’s your heads up. Recommended for those who enjoy a “H*llmark” moment.
October 29, 2020
When the world is stressful, it is nice to lose myself in a small town romance. Rachel is running from an abusive husband and Jack may be just the person to help her. And, of course, who doesn't love a dog? With all HEA books, we know the ending, so authors have to go above and beyond with their character development to keep readers engaged. Ellen does just that. I couldn't help falling in love with Rachel, Jack, and even Captain. It felt like I was right there with them as Jack tries to earn Rachel's trust.
April 29, 2021
No Lights Off
Ms. Joy once again wrote an easy-to-read story! Rachael came to Camden Cove to escape an abusive husband, who is also a police officer. Rachael becomes involved with the Williams family members, but most importantly Jack. The story follows so many real life abusive relationships, I.e., the fear, the lack of confidence, the lack of trust in people. I developed a Domestic Abuse Treatment Program for our county Social Services & Ms. Joy’s story mimics the reality of abuse. Read to find out if her husband tracks her down or if she can move on without him!
Ms. Joy once again wrote an easy-to-read story! Rachael came to Camden Cove to escape an abusive husband, who is also a police officer. Rachael becomes involved with the Williams family members, but most importantly Jack. The story follows so many real life abusive relationships, I.e., the fear, the lack of confidence, the lack of trust in people. I developed a Domestic Abuse Treatment Program for our county Social Services & Ms. Joy’s story mimics the reality of abuse. Read to find out if her husband tracks her down or if she can move on without him!
April 17, 2021
The Restaurant by the Cove
Jack has took over the running of his parents restaurant. During the reception of his sister Elizabeth's wedding, a beautiful young woman came into the restaurant dripping wet and cold. When Jack saw her he wanted to help but she wouldn't let him. After getting to know her Jack fell for her hard. Rachel had secrets she wanted to stay hidden. She was trying to avoid her abusive husband. After finally telling Elizabeth and Adam they find a way to help.
Jack has took over the running of his parents restaurant. During the reception of his sister Elizabeth's wedding, a beautiful young woman came into the restaurant dripping wet and cold. When Jack saw her he wanted to help but she wouldn't let him. After getting to know her Jack fell for her hard. Rachel had secrets she wanted to stay hidden. She was trying to avoid her abusive husband. After finally telling Elizabeth and Adam they find a way to help.
October 9, 2022
This is the third book in the Camden Cove series which focuses on Jack, chef at The Fish Market and Rachel, a lady who finds herself in the Cove after leaving her abusive husband.
I really enjoy reading these books and reading about the lives and happenings in Camden Cove.
Each book is a standalone story but the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
I really enjoy reading these books and reading about the lives and happenings in Camden Cove.
Each book is a standalone story but the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
June 11, 2020
Safe with You: Is a very moving story about a woman who is abused by her husband and who flees from him. It is a moving story that shows that love conquers everything and how people reach out in love. Was very moved by this story.
June 15, 2020
When Love Creates Trust
****May cause triggers****
So many feels and so much truth about domestic violence.
Jack Williams is blown away by the beautiful new lady in town. He knows she has some kind of trouble in her past. Can he convince her to trust him or push her away?~
****May cause triggers****
So many feels and so much truth about domestic violence.
Jack Williams is blown away by the beautiful new lady in town. He knows she has some kind of trouble in her past. Can he convince her to trust him or push her away?~
June 19, 2020
A really good book!
I loved this story, the poor dog, her jerk of a husband, who more than earned what happens to him! Loved the storyline and it makes me want to visit Camden Cove and the farm! It felt like we missed a book with all the stuff with Justine though!
I loved this story, the poor dog, her jerk of a husband, who more than earned what happens to him! Loved the storyline and it makes me want to visit Camden Cove and the farm! It felt like we missed a book with all the stuff with Justine though!
October 18, 2020
Wow!! Great book!!💖
This is a new author for me and I'm REALLY glad I gave her a try! This book was wonderful! Great storyline, great characters and a special mutt, what could be better?
This is a new author for me and I'm REALLY glad I gave her a try! This book was wonderful! Great storyline, great characters and a special mutt, what could be better?
June 18, 2021
Sweet love story
The Cove series is a sweet love story that is easy reading. I've enjoyed the series so far, and am now ready for The Christmas Cottage for, hopefully, Matt's happiness!
The Cove series is a sweet love story that is easy reading. I've enjoyed the series so far, and am now ready for The Christmas Cottage for, hopefully, Matt's happiness!
October 18, 2022
A wonderful book
I loved this book as much as I did the first book of the series. The characters are very supporting and very strong family bond. This story has issues of domestic abuse that readers can relate to the topic. I can't wait to read the next book. Enjoy
I loved this book as much as I did the first book of the series. The characters are very supporting and very strong family bond. This story has issues of domestic abuse that readers can relate to the topic. I can't wait to read the next book. Enjoy
December 26, 2022
A book that shows one how to trust again. It is great to see the usual families of Camden Cove and some new players. Rachael returns to her childhood town after being abused by her policeman husband. You will find intrigue, love, and frightening parts to this book. It is extremely well done.
November 17, 2023
Rachael and Jack
Rachael leaves her abusive cop husband, and heads to a good memory from her childhood. There she meets Jack the local chef and owner of the famous seafood restaurant.
Rachael leaves her abusive cop husband, and heads to a good memory from her childhood. There she meets Jack the local chef and owner of the famous seafood restaurant.
January 20, 2024
Do you really think it's that easy to escape an abusive spouse? The ending is so unrealistic giving the impression they all are going to live happily ever after so easily. He may go to prison but he will get out and then you better watchout!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
October 14, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/14/2020)! 🎁
April 19, 2021
Very safe
I am not sure how there are two book 1, but they are both great. I love this family and Camden Cove
I am not sure how there are two book 1, but they are both great. I love this family and Camden Cove
July 17, 2021
Sweet easy romance.
Its good clean reading, nothing offensive,. Characters are interesting and are real to life's up and downs. Really enjoyed it.
Its good clean reading, nothing offensive,. Characters are interesting and are real to life's up and downs. Really enjoyed it.
August 18, 2021
Overall I thought it was a good read, but the storyline was so similar to Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks that I had a hard time really loving this one.
October 17, 2022
A great series!
Each book in this series gets better and better! Makes you want to live with the people in Camden Cove.
Each book in this series gets better and better! Makes you want to live with the people in Camden Cove.
August 22, 2024
less kissing. i appreciated it. loved the story line!
September 6, 2025
I enjoyed The Restaurant by the Sea. Wonderful characters and story.
July 8, 2026
I finished this yesterday but our internet was down from 12 noon until this morning due to the guy who drove his truck into a telephone pole and right into the water. Crazy
July 23, 2026
I enjoyed the book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews