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Summer at Sandcastle Cottage
The full-length sunny follow-up to the snow Christmas short, Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage
It’s a glorious summer in Firefly Common, but life is far from perfect for the residents of Sandcastle Cottage, especially Kitty who’s currently working as a waitress in The Silver Fish Bar with a lot more than chips on her mind.
Sandcastle Cottage is only available until Mavis Mulholland’s imminent return from her world cruise. Kitty, Apollo, Jemini and Teddy have all lost their homes once before, and it’s not something they want to face again. Especially since they’ve all settled here so nicely.
The enigmatic mysterious Vinny, who walks along the beach, alone, is another reason that Kitty is reluctant to leave – she knows there’s more to him than meets the eye.
As the scorchingly gorgeous Firefly Common summer unfurls, as Apollo and Jemini try to make their dreams come true, as Kitty tries hard not to fall spectacularly stupidly in love, and as Mavis Mulholland’s cruise ship nears port – who will end up living happily ever after?
And where…?
It’s a glorious summer in Firefly Common, but life is far from perfect for the residents of Sandcastle Cottage, especially Kitty who’s currently working as a waitress in The Silver Fish Bar with a lot more than chips on her mind.
Sandcastle Cottage is only available until Mavis Mulholland’s imminent return from her world cruise. Kitty, Apollo, Jemini and Teddy have all lost their homes once before, and it’s not something they want to face again. Especially since they’ve all settled here so nicely.
The enigmatic mysterious Vinny, who walks along the beach, alone, is another reason that Kitty is reluctant to leave – she knows there’s more to him than meets the eye.
As the scorchingly gorgeous Firefly Common summer unfurls, as Apollo and Jemini try to make their dreams come true, as Kitty tries hard not to fall spectacularly stupidly in love, and as Mavis Mulholland’s cruise ship nears port – who will end up living happily ever after?
And where…?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2021
47 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Christina Jones
85 books192 followersI've written all my life, but only became a published novelist in 1997. Before that, I wrote short stories and newspaper articles for pin money while doing a series of naff jobs. In fact I've had twenty seven jobs and been sacked from nineteen of them for writing when I should have been working. I've been, among other things, a shop assistant, waitress, cleaner, secretary, factory worker, market-researcher, nanny, bookseller, night-club dancer, civil servant, blood donor attendant, fruit-picker and barmaid. I'm now, apparently, a Real Writer.
Writing for a living is wonderful - a dream come true - and I now manage to combine writing novels, short stories and articles with not doing the housework, not doing the gardening, not cooking much, but at least attempting to look after my husband - the Toyboy Trucker - and my daughter and our 17 rescued cats.
I was born in Oxford and have lived in Berkshire, Bedfordshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Northumberland, London and Jersey. I blame my parents both for my itchy feet and my romantic soul. My Dad was a circus clown - Poor Billy, Prince of Laughter Makers - and my Mum who trained as a teacher, came from an army family, and had lived in six countries before she was 15. They met and fell in love while the circus was off the road and my Dad was working as Santa Claus in a department store. My Mum, at home for Christmas, was the fairy in his grotto. I was entranced by the way they met, that they were from such different backgrounds, and that their love for one another managed to survive every obstacle and objection thrown in its path. Every book I've written has their story at its core.
I grew up in a Berkshire village, in a tight, happy, secure and very working class community. My childhood was idyllically happy, and my friends from those days are still my best friends now. My novels reflect this community spirit, and all have small groups of people - crossing class, age and gender - who are friends and work together through the roller coaster ride of life. Also, because the women I grew up with were, by necessity, tough and go-getting with a sense of humour, my heroines are gutsy and strong. Real women in real situations. And the fact that the backgrounds to my books mirror my own past experiences is no coincidence, either.
My parents were great storytellers and avid readers, and taught me to read long before I started school, so I started writing my own stories at about five years old without thinking it in the least odd. Writing was an obsession, a friend, a way of life. I had my first short story published at 14, still blissfully unaware this was unusual. However, having a novel published was my life's ambition - and one that took another thirty writing years to achieve.
Having won a couple of awards for my short stories, I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 1993, and was lucky enough to be voted runner-up for the New Writers' Scheme Award at my second attempt in 1995. Dancing in the Moonlight was published by My Weekly Story Library, and as it didn't have an ISBN wasn't classed as a novel. I was, of course, ecstatic at this literary elevation - and it was at the RNA Awards Lunch that I was approached by an agent who suggested I should try writing full length commercial fiction. Going the Distance was the result, and amazingly it was sold to a publisher straight away and then, equally amazingly, chosen for the 1997 WH Smith Fresh Talent Promotion - and I haven't (touch wood and fingers and all other extremities crossed!) - looked back since.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Writing for a living is wonderful - a dream come true - and I now manage to combine writing novels, short stories and articles with not doing the housework, not doing the gardening, not cooking much, but at least attempting to look after my husband - the Toyboy Trucker - and my daughter and our 17 rescued cats.
I was born in Oxford and have lived in Berkshire, Bedfordshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Northumberland, London and Jersey. I blame my parents both for my itchy feet and my romantic soul. My Dad was a circus clown - Poor Billy, Prince of Laughter Makers - and my Mum who trained as a teacher, came from an army family, and had lived in six countries before she was 15. They met and fell in love while the circus was off the road and my Dad was working as Santa Claus in a department store. My Mum, at home for Christmas, was the fairy in his grotto. I was entranced by the way they met, that they were from such different backgrounds, and that their love for one another managed to survive every obstacle and objection thrown in its path. Every book I've written has their story at its core.
I grew up in a Berkshire village, in a tight, happy, secure and very working class community. My childhood was idyllically happy, and my friends from those days are still my best friends now. My novels reflect this community spirit, and all have small groups of people - crossing class, age and gender - who are friends and work together through the roller coaster ride of life. Also, because the women I grew up with were, by necessity, tough and go-getting with a sense of humour, my heroines are gutsy and strong. Real women in real situations. And the fact that the backgrounds to my books mirror my own past experiences is no coincidence, either.
My parents were great storytellers and avid readers, and taught me to read long before I started school, so I started writing my own stories at about five years old without thinking it in the least odd. Writing was an obsession, a friend, a way of life. I had my first short story published at 14, still blissfully unaware this was unusual. However, having a novel published was my life's ambition - and one that took another thirty writing years to achieve.
Having won a couple of awards for my short stories, I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 1993, and was lucky enough to be voted runner-up for the New Writers' Scheme Award at my second attempt in 1995. Dancing in the Moonlight was published by My Weekly Story Library, and as it didn't have an ISBN wasn't classed as a novel. I was, of course, ecstatic at this literary elevation - and it was at the RNA Awards Lunch that I was approached by an agent who suggested I should try writing full length commercial fiction. Going the Distance was the result, and amazingly it was sold to a publisher straight away and then, equally amazingly, chosen for the 1997 WH Smith Fresh Talent Promotion - and I haven't (touch wood and fingers and all other extremities crossed!) - looked back since.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 21, 2021
This has left me with a massive smile on my face and great warmth in my heart.
It is everything I wanted the book to be, and it's the first full length Christina Jones novel that I've read for years, only due to lack of books being written as far as I can tell, and was mildly nervous that it wouldn't be as good as I remember this author to be.
Well my fears were unfounded, Christina Jones' writing is as fabulous as its ever been, and I was hooked on this story. It continues 6 months after where the Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage short story finishes, but don't worry that just gives good background to the characters, this can easily be read as a standalone and the relevant bits are dropped in.
I love Kitty, Jemini and Apollo, little Teddy and the dogs of course. They are an unlikely group of people to live together but needs must and they have been there 6 months now at Sandcastle Cottage, on a short term rental that is due to end imminently, but they don't want to split up as its a working "family unit" as such.
There are so many wonderful threads to this story, but I can't work out what to say as I don't want to spoil anything, but there is romance, there is laughter, there's some emotional bits, some amazing sandcastles, foot in mouth moments. Not to mention a surprisingly impressive party from one set of neighbours, quoting of a wellness guru from the other neighbour, some feisty conversations and just the most perfect ending going.
I've adored my time on Firefly Common, and would love the author to return there in future books, its a gorgeous seaside setting, and is just so quaint, it even has an old fashioned fish and chip shop that Kitty works at.
It's a joy of a British summertime read that I just thoroughly enjoyed every second of. It was a smooth read, and didn't take me too long to devour, and when I wasn't between the pages I was trying to work how whether I could justify stopping working just to continue reading.
So great to see Christiana Jones back writing again, I can't wait for whatever her next book is.
Thank you to Headline Accent and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It is everything I wanted the book to be, and it's the first full length Christina Jones novel that I've read for years, only due to lack of books being written as far as I can tell, and was mildly nervous that it wouldn't be as good as I remember this author to be.
Well my fears were unfounded, Christina Jones' writing is as fabulous as its ever been, and I was hooked on this story. It continues 6 months after where the Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage short story finishes, but don't worry that just gives good background to the characters, this can easily be read as a standalone and the relevant bits are dropped in.
I love Kitty, Jemini and Apollo, little Teddy and the dogs of course. They are an unlikely group of people to live together but needs must and they have been there 6 months now at Sandcastle Cottage, on a short term rental that is due to end imminently, but they don't want to split up as its a working "family unit" as such.
There are so many wonderful threads to this story, but I can't work out what to say as I don't want to spoil anything, but there is romance, there is laughter, there's some emotional bits, some amazing sandcastles, foot in mouth moments. Not to mention a surprisingly impressive party from one set of neighbours, quoting of a wellness guru from the other neighbour, some feisty conversations and just the most perfect ending going.
I've adored my time on Firefly Common, and would love the author to return there in future books, its a gorgeous seaside setting, and is just so quaint, it even has an old fashioned fish and chip shop that Kitty works at.
It's a joy of a British summertime read that I just thoroughly enjoyed every second of. It was a smooth read, and didn't take me too long to devour, and when I wasn't between the pages I was trying to work how whether I could justify stopping working just to continue reading.
So great to see Christiana Jones back writing again, I can't wait for whatever her next book is.
Thank you to Headline Accent and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 29, 2021
This was such a wonderful read that you start feeling sad when you are approaching the end of the book. Three friends are living in a rented house, with a toddler and 2 dogs. They only have a short lease and are trying to stick their heads in the sand about the approaching date where they will need to move out.
It's a wonderful book full of friendships. love and attraction and wonderfully eccentric neighbours . You feel a part of the community and can smell the sea air and imagine walking along the shore with the dogs.
I'd love a return to Sandcastle cottage.
It's a wonderful book full of friendships. love and attraction and wonderfully eccentric neighbours . You feel a part of the community and can smell the sea air and imagine walking along the shore with the dogs.
I'd love a return to Sandcastle cottage.
February 22, 2021
Summer at Sandcastle Cottage by Christina Jones a five-star read that will bring the sunshine to your life. I will be honest at first I was a tiny bot lost as I started this without reading the short Christmas at Sandcastle cottage, if I could start again I would pick it up as I do plan to now, but I was soon all caught up and understood who was who and what was going on, this was such a sweet story it really did take me to the beach, I could feel the sand under my toes and the wind in my hair, imagining myself alongside Kitty, looking like a Botticelli painting (more her than me but hey ho). This really is a feelgood story, there is drama aplenty and romance along the seashore but there is also a great story that will encompass you as you read.
May 12, 2021
I had to read the prequel before I could start on this book - I like to do things in order.
This story was sunshine in a book - a perfect piece of escapism - and I loved it.
The eclectic cast of characters, the setting, the romance - and of course the dogs. All with a deadline hanging over them.What is there not to love?
This was a light Summery read - perfect for transporting you away from reality for a short while.
Highly recommended.
This story was sunshine in a book - a perfect piece of escapism - and I loved it.
The eclectic cast of characters, the setting, the romance - and of course the dogs. All with a deadline hanging over them.What is there not to love?
This was a light Summery read - perfect for transporting you away from reality for a short while.
Highly recommended.
May 16, 2021
The most wonderful light hearted read , I’ve been enjoying these books for the last year or more, my escape to happiness I see them as. This is a book about family and friendships. I loved it and really hope there is more to come from this series (the previous was Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage but you don’t need to read it, as this book can definitely be read as a standalone.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
April 5, 2022
Personally I found it kind of ‘bland’. Although the book is quite short it felt like forever reading it.
July 30, 2021
Christina Jones is one of those authors who skilfullyweaves magic and comedy in to her stories. Just a shame that her recent books have only been released electronically
April 10, 2021
If you want to read the very best in romantic comedy, then Christina Jones’ name should be at the very top of your list and she is back with a superb new novel that will steal your heart and make you smile from start to finish: Summer at Sandcastle Cottage.
Kitty Appleby is loving her life living in the delightful village of Firefly Common and sharing tumbledown Sandcastle Cottage with her housemates Jemini and Apollo and two beautiful Staffies, Honey and Zorro. With a job waitressing at the Silver Fish Bar and surrounded by kind-hearted friends and neighbours and spectacular scenery, Kitty is truly living the dream. Unfortunately though, Kitty is well aware that this rural idyll might soon be coming to an end. She is only living temporarily in Sandcastle Cottage while the owner, Mavis Mullholland, is on a world-cruise and with her return imminent, it’s only a matter of time until Kitty will have to pack her bags and bid Firefly Common and the cottage that has become her home goodbye.
Kitty has certainly got enough on her plate. With her future in Sandcastle Cottage up in the air, the thought of leaving her new life behind breaks her heart. Firefly Common and its eccentric residents have touched her heart and truly got under her skin and she cannot imagine a life without them. But with her savings not exactly plentiful and the money she makes from waitressing not exactly a fortune, Kitty knows that she can never afford to own her own property in Firefly Common. The weight of the world is on Kitty’s shoulders and romance should be the very last thing on her mind – so why can’t she stop herself from thinking about the mysterious Vinny, an enigmatic stranger who seems keen to keep everyone at arm’s lengths. Yet, Kitty cannot help but be intrigued by him…
Vinny is not exactly Mr Popular with the residents of Firefly Common. A man who prefers his own company and who gives his neighbours a very wide berth, he is very much aware of his less than stellar reputation and he doesn’t much care. But will Kitty manage to breach the impenetrable iron-clad defenses around his heart? Will the two of them manage to find a way to lay old ghosts to rest and find a way to build a future together in Firefly Common? Or will fate force them to build a new life for themselves far from the village that has come to mean everything to them?
There aren’t enough superlatives to describe just how wonderful Christina Jones’ Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is! A first class romantic comedy that had me roaring with laughter from page one, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is a delightful tale about friendship, belonging and new beginnings that held me completely and utterly spellbound from start to finish.
Christina Jones is such a wonderful writer who creates characters that are so beautifully drawn and brilliantly described that spending time in their company is a total joy and I absolutely hated saying goodbye to them when I reached the final page of Summer at Sandcastle Cottage.
I’ve been a fan of Christina’s since her very first novel Going the Distance and it is so good to have her back! Witty, heart-warming and outstanding from beginning to end, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is simply magical!
Kitty Appleby is loving her life living in the delightful village of Firefly Common and sharing tumbledown Sandcastle Cottage with her housemates Jemini and Apollo and two beautiful Staffies, Honey and Zorro. With a job waitressing at the Silver Fish Bar and surrounded by kind-hearted friends and neighbours and spectacular scenery, Kitty is truly living the dream. Unfortunately though, Kitty is well aware that this rural idyll might soon be coming to an end. She is only living temporarily in Sandcastle Cottage while the owner, Mavis Mullholland, is on a world-cruise and with her return imminent, it’s only a matter of time until Kitty will have to pack her bags and bid Firefly Common and the cottage that has become her home goodbye.
Kitty has certainly got enough on her plate. With her future in Sandcastle Cottage up in the air, the thought of leaving her new life behind breaks her heart. Firefly Common and its eccentric residents have touched her heart and truly got under her skin and she cannot imagine a life without them. But with her savings not exactly plentiful and the money she makes from waitressing not exactly a fortune, Kitty knows that she can never afford to own her own property in Firefly Common. The weight of the world is on Kitty’s shoulders and romance should be the very last thing on her mind – so why can’t she stop herself from thinking about the mysterious Vinny, an enigmatic stranger who seems keen to keep everyone at arm’s lengths. Yet, Kitty cannot help but be intrigued by him…
Vinny is not exactly Mr Popular with the residents of Firefly Common. A man who prefers his own company and who gives his neighbours a very wide berth, he is very much aware of his less than stellar reputation and he doesn’t much care. But will Kitty manage to breach the impenetrable iron-clad defenses around his heart? Will the two of them manage to find a way to lay old ghosts to rest and find a way to build a future together in Firefly Common? Or will fate force them to build a new life for themselves far from the village that has come to mean everything to them?
There aren’t enough superlatives to describe just how wonderful Christina Jones’ Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is! A first class romantic comedy that had me roaring with laughter from page one, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is a delightful tale about friendship, belonging and new beginnings that held me completely and utterly spellbound from start to finish.
Christina Jones is such a wonderful writer who creates characters that are so beautifully drawn and brilliantly described that spending time in their company is a total joy and I absolutely hated saying goodbye to them when I reached the final page of Summer at Sandcastle Cottage.
I’ve been a fan of Christina’s since her very first novel Going the Distance and it is so good to have her back! Witty, heart-warming and outstanding from beginning to end, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is simply magical!
June 15, 2023
I was in the mood for some romance, but truth be told this was just too light and unrealistic for my taste. I prefer a love story with a little more substance, more heft. I can't quite immerse myself in a story that presents a 'perfect', happily ever after scenario, with story outcomes that are so improbable.
Given my own personal reservations, I have to concede that for many readers this would be a perfect beach read. Light, happy, and bordering on the idyllic, it was just too unrealistic for me. A fluffy, romantic, escapist romp through the sand...
Given my own personal reservations, I have to concede that for many readers this would be a perfect beach read. Light, happy, and bordering on the idyllic, it was just too unrealistic for me. A fluffy, romantic, escapist romp through the sand...
June 25, 2022
This picture is the picture of the ebook and not the paperback which I read. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would but it doesn't go all the way to 11!
This is one of the loveliest books I have genuinely ever read. It just bathes you in sunshine. At the moment it's heading to be my read of the year.
After a very very difficult first half of the year, unrelated to Covid, I finally picked this up to read having been bought it last year. It is such a tonic. This book is brim full of joy. Every page just comes alive in 3D and you really lose yourself in the story and the descriptions. How to describe it? In true Christina Jones fashion, it has romance with a bit of a twist to it but the romance is not the main plot, that is more about life and if they are going to be homeless or not. This particular part of the story spoke to me having been a renter for a few years myself. All the characters are so real and Christina does conversation as people do; it isn't forced or said in a way that isn't real or outdated.
The descriptions in this book are so perfect. I haven't been to the seaside for a very long time but this novel really makes you feel you are there. Also the description of the fish and chips cooking and being served and of the birthday picnic in the garden are just so lovely that you really want to eat all of it at that moment.
There are a few references to well known songs including My Girl. This song means a lot to me for a couple of reasons which made it even better.
Now some would say there are some predictable parts, maybe so. Does this spoilt it? Not for me. I find you want certain things to happen for certain characters as you would your friends and maybe they do happen but I never read a novel to second guess events I just read it and see what happens.
If you want to read a novel that is just happy this is the one. If you like Staffies and the seaside and children then this is the one. The descriptions of the antics of the dogs are so good and so real.
Some books I pass on and some are keepers, this is the latter. When I really feel I need to lose myself in a really sunny book I will be able to take it from the shelf and read it again. A definite recommend.
This is one of the loveliest books I have genuinely ever read. It just bathes you in sunshine. At the moment it's heading to be my read of the year.
After a very very difficult first half of the year, unrelated to Covid, I finally picked this up to read having been bought it last year. It is such a tonic. This book is brim full of joy. Every page just comes alive in 3D and you really lose yourself in the story and the descriptions. How to describe it? In true Christina Jones fashion, it has romance with a bit of a twist to it but the romance is not the main plot, that is more about life and if they are going to be homeless or not. This particular part of the story spoke to me having been a renter for a few years myself. All the characters are so real and Christina does conversation as people do; it isn't forced or said in a way that isn't real or outdated.
The descriptions in this book are so perfect. I haven't been to the seaside for a very long time but this novel really makes you feel you are there. Also the description of the fish and chips cooking and being served and of the birthday picnic in the garden are just so lovely that you really want to eat all of it at that moment.
There are a few references to well known songs including My Girl. This song means a lot to me for a couple of reasons which made it even better.
Now some would say there are some predictable parts, maybe so. Does this spoilt it? Not for me. I find you want certain things to happen for certain characters as you would your friends and maybe they do happen but I never read a novel to second guess events I just read it and see what happens.
If you want to read a novel that is just happy this is the one. If you like Staffies and the seaside and children then this is the one. The descriptions of the antics of the dogs are so good and so real.
Some books I pass on and some are keepers, this is the latter. When I really feel I need to lose myself in a really sunny book I will be able to take it from the shelf and read it again. A definite recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2021
*I voluntarily reviewed this book via Netgalley.
SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE by Christina Jones is a book that will make you smile and bring sunshine into your day, and we could all do with a little more of that in our lives.
After lots of heartbreak and ups and downs, three friends, one adorable child, and a couple of loveable dogs, have found their haven in the warm embrace of Sandcastle Cottage. Kitty and her friends have found jobs that they enjoy, a community that has welcomed them, and a feeling of contentment that has been missing so much in their lives. But when Kitty receives a letter from the owner of the cottage informing them that she is returning from her long trip, panic ensues. Will they all be able to find somewhere to live together or will they have to split up? Will they be able to stay in this gorgeous town or be forced to leave? And while they look for answers to these questions, the dramas of ordinary life continues and the possibility of romance is on the horizon.
A story about the power and importance of friendship, SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE is everything you could want in a book and then a little bit more. I could feel the sea breeze on my face and the sand beneath my toes and the entire setting is so expertly described that I felt I was there right alongside the characters. A story that certainly has something for everyone, SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE by Christina Jones is top-notch and I highly recommend it to all readers who want to brighten up their day.
SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE by Christina Jones is a book that will make you smile and bring sunshine into your day, and we could all do with a little more of that in our lives.
After lots of heartbreak and ups and downs, three friends, one adorable child, and a couple of loveable dogs, have found their haven in the warm embrace of Sandcastle Cottage. Kitty and her friends have found jobs that they enjoy, a community that has welcomed them, and a feeling of contentment that has been missing so much in their lives. But when Kitty receives a letter from the owner of the cottage informing them that she is returning from her long trip, panic ensues. Will they all be able to find somewhere to live together or will they have to split up? Will they be able to stay in this gorgeous town or be forced to leave? And while they look for answers to these questions, the dramas of ordinary life continues and the possibility of romance is on the horizon.
A story about the power and importance of friendship, SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE is everything you could want in a book and then a little bit more. I could feel the sea breeze on my face and the sand beneath my toes and the entire setting is so expertly described that I felt I was there right alongside the characters. A story that certainly has something for everyone, SUMMER AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE by Christina Jones is top-notch and I highly recommend it to all readers who want to brighten up their day.
March 21, 2021
If you are looking for a read that will brighten up a grey day, then look no further! This book brought sunshine in to my life while I was reading it, and I was sad to stop being around the characters by the last page! I think I need a trip to Firefly Common to visit them all!
This is a follow up to the short story - CHRISTMAS AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE - but you don't need to have read that to catch up with the goings on! Kitty has found her happy place at Sandcastle Cottage, along with her friends and the lovely community around them. But that might all be about to change with the news that their landlord is on their way home - and the thought of having to move on again is not filling Kitty with pleasure!
What stands out about this book is how quickly Kitty and her friends became part of the village around them. She's always been fearful of change and making mistakes so to have this settled period in her life is lettng her be herself finally. And there's also the enigmatic Vinny who is still a mystery to them! He's often spotted walking along the beach by himself, but nobody knows much more about him and Kitty is intrigued! I don't blame her!
As the events play out over the Summer, I found myself really bonding with Kitty and her friends as they try and work out their next moves, and deal with all that life throws their way in their professional and personal lives! You really understand their angst too at maybe having to move on from their happy, safe space and just keep hoping that a compromise can be reached to keep them all together!
A ray of sunshine in book form!!
This is a follow up to the short story - CHRISTMAS AT SANDCASTLE COTTAGE - but you don't need to have read that to catch up with the goings on! Kitty has found her happy place at Sandcastle Cottage, along with her friends and the lovely community around them. But that might all be about to change with the news that their landlord is on their way home - and the thought of having to move on again is not filling Kitty with pleasure!
What stands out about this book is how quickly Kitty and her friends became part of the village around them. She's always been fearful of change and making mistakes so to have this settled period in her life is lettng her be herself finally. And there's also the enigmatic Vinny who is still a mystery to them! He's often spotted walking along the beach by himself, but nobody knows much more about him and Kitty is intrigued! I don't blame her!
As the events play out over the Summer, I found myself really bonding with Kitty and her friends as they try and work out their next moves, and deal with all that life throws their way in their professional and personal lives! You really understand their angst too at maybe having to move on from their happy, safe space and just keep hoping that a compromise can be reached to keep them all together!
A ray of sunshine in book form!!
April 3, 2021
Well the amazing Christina Jones has done it again with this delightful full novel about the intricately woven lives of the main characters who we first met in ` Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage' , plus the two delightful rescued Staffie Dogs Honey & Zoro.
It's all about life's ups & downs , in an amazing Seaside setting along a stretch of the English coast which resonates with my childhood .
Christina as always makes us laugh ,jump up & down for joy along with her characters & even shed some tears & live on the seat of our pants while we wait to see how things will end! Thankfully fairly happily & that's all I will say ,other than get a copy of this delightful book & read it ! #FB, #NetGalley, #GoodReads, #Amazon.co.uk #Instagram #friends & Family everywhere, #
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It's all about life's ups & downs , in an amazing Seaside setting along a stretch of the English coast which resonates with my childhood .
Christina as always makes us laugh ,jump up & down for joy along with her characters & even shed some tears & live on the seat of our pants while we wait to see how things will end! Thankfully fairly happily & that's all I will say ,other than get a copy of this delightful book & read it ! #FB, #NetGalley, #GoodReads, #Amazon.co.uk #Instagram #friends & Family everywhere, #
,#, #!
March 14, 2021
This is one of those sunny reads which makes you want to fast forward a few months to all the bright Summer days we are hoping for. Firefly Common sounds idyllic, as does Sandcastle Cottage. I haven't read the short story, Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage which explains who's who but I thoroughly enjoyed this full length book as a standalone and soon sorted out the group of friends. Friendship stands at the hreat of the story, both with the central group, and also with the community they live amongst.
Christina Jones is a very experienced, published author and it shows in this novel. It flows effortlessly. There are a couple of gentle mysteries to uncover and I must admit, I wasn't right with them all. You do root for all the characters, however, and find yourself wondering at the end, what could happen next. This is an entertaining and warm read which feels like a breath of fresh air.
In short: Love and friendship.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Christina Jones is a very experienced, published author and it shows in this novel. It flows effortlessly. There are a couple of gentle mysteries to uncover and I must admit, I wasn't right with them all. You do root for all the characters, however, and find yourself wondering at the end, what could happen next. This is an entertaining and warm read which feels like a breath of fresh air.
In short: Love and friendship.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
February 9, 2021
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy if this from the author.
This book follows on from the ebook Christmas At Sandcastle Cottage but it can easily be read as a stand alone as the author gives enough background information for the reader to know how the characters ended up where they are.
The book returns to the delightful setting if Firefly Common (which I would love to visit!!).
The main character Kitty along with her friends Apollo, Jemina and her daughter Teddy are renting Sandcastle cottage and loving living there along with their eccentric neighbours. However they know their time there us soon to end. The book follows them in their lives through the hot summer.
As is usual with the authors books there is a magical feel to the book. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book for anyone who wants a magical summer read.
This book follows on from the ebook Christmas At Sandcastle Cottage but it can easily be read as a stand alone as the author gives enough background information for the reader to know how the characters ended up where they are.
The book returns to the delightful setting if Firefly Common (which I would love to visit!!).
The main character Kitty along with her friends Apollo, Jemina and her daughter Teddy are renting Sandcastle cottage and loving living there along with their eccentric neighbours. However they know their time there us soon to end. The book follows them in their lives through the hot summer.
As is usual with the authors books there is a magical feel to the book. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book for anyone who wants a magical summer read.
March 3, 2021
I have been a Christina Jones fan for a long, long time. So I was really excited about a this new book! I was thrilled to receive a review copy of Summer at Sandcastle Cottage, and I have reread Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage in preparation.
I really enjoyed this book. It continues the tale of the housemates we met in Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage. The pace is lovely and relaxing, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters and setting better. I really liked Kitty, and it was so pleasing to see her gradually gaining courage and eventually seizing her opportunities. I loved Apollo and Jemini’s stories too. But of course I loved Honey and Zorro the best.
If you’re looking for a lovely story of friendship and romance, pick this one.
I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. It continues the tale of the housemates we met in Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage. The pace is lovely and relaxing, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters and setting better. I really liked Kitty, and it was so pleasing to see her gradually gaining courage and eventually seizing her opportunities. I loved Apollo and Jemini’s stories too. But of course I loved Honey and Zorro the best.
If you’re looking for a lovely story of friendship and romance, pick this one.
I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
November 17, 2021
It's been a number of years since I last read a book by this author and I really enjoyed it.
I had heard that there was a short story called Christmas At Sandcastle Cottage, which is set before this book, which I haven't read, but it seems you don't actually need to, as everything you need to know is perfectly well covered here.
I loved all the characters, Kitty, Jemini, Apollo, Connor, little Teddy and of course not forgetting the dogs, Honey and Zorro.
They all worked well as a 'family unit', and the unusual way in how they all ended up together in the first place is, explained pretty well.
There are some very good - and in some cases pretty quirky -side characters with their own little side stories to tell, and it just makes the setting of Firefly Common all the more adorable sounding, I would love to think that I could visit there again sometime in the future.
I had heard that there was a short story called Christmas At Sandcastle Cottage, which is set before this book, which I haven't read, but it seems you don't actually need to, as everything you need to know is perfectly well covered here.
I loved all the characters, Kitty, Jemini, Apollo, Connor, little Teddy and of course not forgetting the dogs, Honey and Zorro.
They all worked well as a 'family unit', and the unusual way in how they all ended up together in the first place is, explained pretty well.
There are some very good - and in some cases pretty quirky -side characters with their own little side stories to tell, and it just makes the setting of Firefly Common all the more adorable sounding, I would love to think that I could visit there again sometime in the future.
February 11, 2021
Wow what a beautiful,wholesome,feel good read,summer at sandcastle cottage is! Perfect to read at anytime but great during lockdown to remind you of better days sunshine sea and sand and spending time with great friends!
Set in the most idyllic setting of firefly common on the south coast, we meet kitty, Apollo and jemimi along with teddy and the two dogs! All three have been down on their luck but all that changed after moving into sandcastle cottage, the camaraderie,relationships and lifestyle of the three friends as they establish themselves in firefly common is second to none, old ghosts are laid bare, new love and opportunities abound aplenty!
Loved this read and would highly recommend
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Set in the most idyllic setting of firefly common on the south coast, we meet kitty, Apollo and jemimi along with teddy and the two dogs! All three have been down on their luck but all that changed after moving into sandcastle cottage, the camaraderie,relationships and lifestyle of the three friends as they establish themselves in firefly common is second to none, old ghosts are laid bare, new love and opportunities abound aplenty!
Loved this read and would highly recommend
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
April 19, 2021
Thank you so much @headlineacdent for this eBook through Secret Readers.
I am such a big Christina Jones fan, I think I have read almost all of her books. My favourites are from the Mad Villages Series and The Milton St John Trilogy as they are written to be based very near to where I live.
Holy crap on a cracker, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is absolutely fantastic! The story is a really great feel-good chick lit and the characters are such fun. I didn’t want to put it down as it was such a lovely read.
My Favourite Quote was “You’ll always be more Princess Merida with a touch of Julia Roberts, to me”
I can’t recommend this book, and all of Christina Jones back catalogue enough. Such a talented author, you will want to binge them all.
I am such a big Christina Jones fan, I think I have read almost all of her books. My favourites are from the Mad Villages Series and The Milton St John Trilogy as they are written to be based very near to where I live.
Holy crap on a cracker, Summer at Sandcastle Cottage is absolutely fantastic! The story is a really great feel-good chick lit and the characters are such fun. I didn’t want to put it down as it was such a lovely read.
My Favourite Quote was “You’ll always be more Princess Merida with a touch of Julia Roberts, to me”
I can’t recommend this book, and all of Christina Jones back catalogue enough. Such a talented author, you will want to binge them all.
February 15, 2021
A delight to read
Tumbledown Sandcastle Cottage is home to Kitty Appleby set in the delightful Firefly common Village and she loves living here with housemates Apollo and Jemini, but then landlady Mavis Mullholland drops and announced she is arriving back from a round the world cruise so where does this leave them Homeless? they knew it was only going to be for six months but Kitty is settled and friends and neighbours are wonderful to be around and what about Christmas time. It's become their magical place. This is such a beautiful read full of friendship and love, and I enjoyed every bit of it page after page.
Tumbledown Sandcastle Cottage is home to Kitty Appleby set in the delightful Firefly common Village and she loves living here with housemates Apollo and Jemini, but then landlady Mavis Mullholland drops and announced she is arriving back from a round the world cruise so where does this leave them Homeless? they knew it was only going to be for six months but Kitty is settled and friends and neighbours are wonderful to be around and what about Christmas time. It's become their magical place. This is such a beautiful read full of friendship and love, and I enjoyed every bit of it page after page.
May 3, 2021
This one took me a little while to read. It's not the kind of book I enjoy reading and I just didn't feel invested enough in the story or characters to want to pick it up often enough. I chose it from a selection on #secretreaders but I think if I bought the book I would be disappointed.
I love a fast paced thriller and this was the complete opposite. I didn't feel chemistry between the characters and the story just didn't mesh well for me personally but I think if you enjoy a #chicklit this will be for you. I think I'll be sticking to my thrillers for now!
I love a fast paced thriller and this was the complete opposite. I didn't feel chemistry between the characters and the story just didn't mesh well for me personally but I think if you enjoy a #chicklit this will be for you. I think I'll be sticking to my thrillers for now!
February 24, 2021
A lovely summery story, set on the Dorset coast.
A group of lost souls living in Sandcastle Cottage, rebuilding their lives after various heartbreaks, friends for life who feel they have finally found their place in life.
When their tenancy is about to come to an end, will Kitty, Apollo, Jemini, Teddy, Zorro and Honey have split up and go their separate ways? Will new found loves also be left behind?
A really lovely and inspiring story of love, determination, friendship and community.
A group of lost souls living in Sandcastle Cottage, rebuilding their lives after various heartbreaks, friends for life who feel they have finally found their place in life.
When their tenancy is about to come to an end, will Kitty, Apollo, Jemini, Teddy, Zorro and Honey have split up and go their separate ways? Will new found loves also be left behind?
A really lovely and inspiring story of love, determination, friendship and community.
February 26, 2021
I absolutely loved this story of friendships and love. Knowing the South Coast of England well helped me imagine Firefly Common in my head. I could feel the warmth of those long summer days when I was reading and smell the fish n chips ... mmmmmmm.....Glorious!
I thought I had it sussed - the whole who is Mavis and who is May - but boy was I wrong. I wonder if we are getting another instalment of life with this rag tag band of friends.
I thought I had it sussed - the whole who is Mavis and who is May - but boy was I wrong. I wonder if we are getting another instalment of life with this rag tag band of friends.
March 12, 2021
Summer at Sandcastle Cottage - Christina Jones
The perfect light hearted summer holiday read -which I think we could all do with at the moment! The pace of the story is lovely and really quite relaxing, I liked the characters and thought they were nice and relatable. Overall a great tale with friendships and romance - what's not to like! I will look out for more from this author in the future, many thanks to NetGalley and Headline for allowing me the chance to read and review this book.
The perfect light hearted summer holiday read -which I think we could all do with at the moment! The pace of the story is lovely and really quite relaxing, I liked the characters and thought they were nice and relatable. Overall a great tale with friendships and romance - what's not to like! I will look out for more from this author in the future, many thanks to NetGalley and Headline for allowing me the chance to read and review this book.
April 27, 2021
If you like easygoing happily ever afters then this is the book for you.
An easy paced read, which will have you craving fish and chips by the seaside, not to mention a cheeky ice cream for dessert.
Would make a good summer beach read.
There isn’t a complex plot, as with most books of this genre, but with interesting characters and lots of love and costal scenery it doesn’t require it.
Now I’m off to find my own perfect home along the coast with sea views - bliss.
An easy paced read, which will have you craving fish and chips by the seaside, not to mention a cheeky ice cream for dessert.
Would make a good summer beach read.
There isn’t a complex plot, as with most books of this genre, but with interesting characters and lots of love and costal scenery it doesn’t require it.
Now I’m off to find my own perfect home along the coast with sea views - bliss.
May 7, 2021
Kitty is happy living at Sandcastle cottage with her dear friends and two dogs. They have taken over renting the place but that lease will soon be up. Can they find a way to stay in the village and together?
This was a fun, light read but obviously predictable. And at times a little unbelievable. That being said I enjoyed the story. The characters are fun and likeable especially Apollo. Perfect if you love a romance and don't take it too seriously.
This was a fun, light read but obviously predictable. And at times a little unbelievable. That being said I enjoyed the story. The characters are fun and likeable especially Apollo. Perfect if you love a romance and don't take it too seriously.
August 19, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book and so magical and well written with charm. The characters are good and the plot is very good.
Kitty finally Kearns after a break up where she should be and she's loving sandcastle cottage and making new friends. Problem is it doesn't belong to her and the landlady is on her way back from a trip and wants to have the house back so she thinks and she doesn't want to loose it so what will happen.
Kitty finally Kearns after a break up where she should be and she's loving sandcastle cottage and making new friends. Problem is it doesn't belong to her and the landlady is on her way back from a trip and wants to have the house back so she thinks and she doesn't want to loose it so what will happen.
September 9, 2021
This was a perfect light hearted summer read. Focusing on Kitty and her 3 friends as they navigated their way through love and heartbreak, this was such a feel good read. It was a predictable and cheesy story line in places, but I liked how everything turned out at the end for everyone, especially Kitty and Apollo. Overall this was a good read and I would be interested to read more from the author and hope there may be a follow up to this.
July 25, 2023
Not for me!
This is the story of Kitty, Apollo and Jemini living in Sandcastle Cottage. This is a story about their daily lives, loves and all the local characters of the village.
Tbh.. although some will enjoy this easy read, it was really too cheesy and unbelievable for me. Nothing is that good or easy in life!
If you want a super easy, unrealistic story then this is for you. Glad I finished it and can move on.
This is the story of Kitty, Apollo and Jemini living in Sandcastle Cottage. This is a story about their daily lives, loves and all the local characters of the village.
Tbh.. although some will enjoy this easy read, it was really too cheesy and unbelievable for me. Nothing is that good or easy in life!
If you want a super easy, unrealistic story then this is for you. Glad I finished it and can move on.
July 18, 2021
Excellent
I have enjoyed this read more than I can adequately express. Christina Jones you are an amazing author.. The story was very good and the characters were interesting and delightful. I was happy with everything -very special. I could not put this book down.I love the ending and it brought me joy. Thanks for a great story. I can't wait to read more from you.
I have enjoyed this read more than I can adequately express. Christina Jones you are an amazing author.. The story was very good and the characters were interesting and delightful. I was happy with everything -very special. I could not put this book down.I love the ending and it brought me joy. Thanks for a great story. I can't wait to read more from you.
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