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Pepper Bay #1
Starlight Cottage
Welcome to Pepper Bay. A small close-knit community where you’ll find chocolate box cottages, quaint shops, love, drama, and a happily ever after.
Snuggle down with this cosy, feel-good, comfort read that whisks you away to a beautiful bay on the Isle of Wight – Perfect for fans of Christie Barlow, Phillipa Ashley, and Holly Martin.
The Pepper Bay books are standalone stories that intertwine with recurring characters. Best read in order for maximum enjoyment.
Starlight Cottage: Anna Cooper and Jake Reynolds both live at a luxury London building. The only difference is that Jake lives in the penthouse, and Anna lives in a tent on the roof.
When Jake finds out, he offers Anna a chance of a new life in his grandmother’s childhood home in Pepper Bay, and she decides to take the opportunity to see if she really can make a fresh start somewhere else.
The beauty of Pepper Bay, with its quaint shops, chocolate box cottages, and all of Jake’s closest friends, immediately fills Anna’s heart with nothing but love, and it isn’t just Starlight Cottage that she finds herself falling in love with.
Snuggle down with this cosy, feel-good, comfort read that whisks you away to a beautiful bay on the Isle of Wight – Perfect for fans of Christie Barlow, Phillipa Ashley, and Holly Martin.
The Pepper Bay books are standalone stories that intertwine with recurring characters. Best read in order for maximum enjoyment.
Starlight Cottage: Anna Cooper and Jake Reynolds both live at a luxury London building. The only difference is that Jake lives in the penthouse, and Anna lives in a tent on the roof.
When Jake finds out, he offers Anna a chance of a new life in his grandmother’s childhood home in Pepper Bay, and she decides to take the opportunity to see if she really can make a fresh start somewhere else.
The beauty of Pepper Bay, with its quaint shops, chocolate box cottages, and all of Jake’s closest friends, immediately fills Anna’s heart with nothing but love, and it isn’t just Starlight Cottage that she finds herself falling in love with.
Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2021
363 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
K.T. Dady
43 books81 followersHello, I'm K.T. Dady. I write uplifting love stories filled with friendship, family, and community set here, there, and everywhere, as love happens anywhere and under all sorts of circumstances. But whatever challenges my characters face along the way, there is always a happily ever after.
Feel free to join my newsletter over at my website.
You can also find me mostly on Instagram or Facebook.
Instagram - @kt_dady
Facebook - @ktdady
Thank you so much to everyone who buys my books. I'm truly grateful.
Feel free to join my newsletter over at my website.
You can also find me mostly on Instagram or Facebook.
Instagram - @kt_dady
Facebook - @ktdady
Thank you so much to everyone who buys my books. I'm truly grateful.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 2, 2021
Anna lives in a tent on the roof of the luxury apartment complex where Jake lives. When Jake finds out about Anna’s bad luck, he tries to help her. Jake offers her a job, and then gives her the opportunity to stay at his grandmother’s home in Pepper Bay. Anna agrees in the hope of making a fresh start in Pepper Bay, and she falls in love with the charming town. Now she has to face her growing feelings for Jake and hope he feels the same way.
Anna has had a difficult life, and it seems as if things just aren’t going her way. However, no matter how bleak her situation feels, Anna never gives up hope. I love her optimism, her gentle and kind nature, and her constant determination to make the best of things. She looks on the bright side of every situation and faces life with enthusiasm, and I admire her outlook and her adaptability.
Jack is a bit more elusive with his feelings and is serious in nature. He is a wealthy man who is used to getting his way. I love how Anna positively influences his well-ordered and stagnant life. He has been through a lot and often keeps people at a distance, and Anna is one of the few that he lets in.
Anna and Jack have a great opposites-attract romance. From the start, they are so different – he is rich, she can’t afford accommodations. He has a solid future, while her future is unclear. He is controlled and a bit of a neat freak. She lives in a tent. He has a neat and ordered life, and Anna disrupts that. Their relationship gets off to a rocky start, but they soon learn that there is more to the other than meets the eye, and I love how they slowly break down each other’s walls.
I also really enjoyed the setting. Though the start of the story takes place in a large city, the pair also spends time in Pepper Bay, which sounds like such a charming and beautiful town. I can see why Anna and Jack both love it so much; it sounds like a place that I’d love to live. Quaint and unique, it’s a close-knit, welcoming community where everyone knows everyone else. There is a caring and supportive feel to Pepper Bay, and it’s an idyllic place for Anna and Jack to find love.
A charming feel-good romance, this is a great contemporary love story and a wonderful first book in the Pepper Bay series. I’m eager to read more of the series and find out about the other wonderful characters introduced in this book. Thanks so much to Rachel’s Random Resources and K.T. Dady for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Anna has had a difficult life, and it seems as if things just aren’t going her way. However, no matter how bleak her situation feels, Anna never gives up hope. I love her optimism, her gentle and kind nature, and her constant determination to make the best of things. She looks on the bright side of every situation and faces life with enthusiasm, and I admire her outlook and her adaptability.
Jack is a bit more elusive with his feelings and is serious in nature. He is a wealthy man who is used to getting his way. I love how Anna positively influences his well-ordered and stagnant life. He has been through a lot and often keeps people at a distance, and Anna is one of the few that he lets in.
Anna and Jack have a great opposites-attract romance. From the start, they are so different – he is rich, she can’t afford accommodations. He has a solid future, while her future is unclear. He is controlled and a bit of a neat freak. She lives in a tent. He has a neat and ordered life, and Anna disrupts that. Their relationship gets off to a rocky start, but they soon learn that there is more to the other than meets the eye, and I love how they slowly break down each other’s walls.
I also really enjoyed the setting. Though the start of the story takes place in a large city, the pair also spends time in Pepper Bay, which sounds like such a charming and beautiful town. I can see why Anna and Jack both love it so much; it sounds like a place that I’d love to live. Quaint and unique, it’s a close-knit, welcoming community where everyone knows everyone else. There is a caring and supportive feel to Pepper Bay, and it’s an idyllic place for Anna and Jack to find love.
A charming feel-good romance, this is a great contemporary love story and a wonderful first book in the Pepper Bay series. I’m eager to read more of the series and find out about the other wonderful characters introduced in this book. Thanks so much to Rachel’s Random Resources and K.T. Dady for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
September 10, 2021
This is a sweet yet predictable romance story that left me thinking “just get on with it!” as the emotional tension between Anna and Jake simmered throughout the book. Although this was a short story, I found the final quarter did drag on a bit, desperate to see the characters united in a happy-ever-after.
When we first meet Jake and Anna, they could not be more contrasting. Whilst Jake has the money, the pent house and seemingly a bachelor lifestyle, Anna is the opposite: no job, no home and living on the roof of the building that Jake resides in. Chalk and cheese! Indeed, when Anna is first introduced, her bedraggled, dirty appearance had both Jake and I wrinkling our noses in distaste. Poor Max, Anna’s dog, also suffers from the lack of bathing and I felt like I could smell ‘wet dog’ coming from my Kindle!
As you would anticipate with such a story, the paths of Jake and Anna cross: Jake becomes Anna’s knight in shining armour and takes her away to the Isle of Wight where they stay in his grandmother’s childhood home. The way Jake’s home is described makes it sound incredibly snuggly and idyllic – a perfectly, cosy setting for when a huge dumping of snow arrives! With Jake and Anna trying to come to terms with their feelings, trust one another and also recover from a near-tragedy, the story follows the characters as they attempt to come closer but without mis-reading the situation. Of course, there is a massive bump in the road for them both which is gradually resolved.
Dady structures this narrative in third person and each chapter switches from Jake and Anna. It is primarily told in third person but Dady moves to the character’s internal monologues in first person. And there is a lot of these through the story. These thoughts are shown in italics and I think I would have preferred the story to be told from Jake and Anna’s perspectives completely, rather than switching from third to first person all the time. In my opinion, it reduced the flow of the narrative and would have made it easier to connect with the characters.
Yes, this is a sweet romance story and it is set around Christmas time. Although the story takes place in winter, it is only until the latter half of the story did I get a true sense of the festive time of year. Snow made a big difference, but I think you can associate snow with something other than Christmas?! Therefore, I think this book works perfectly as a ‘winter warmer’ either side of Christmas. It is heart-warming, which is just what the characters need with such poor weather.
I did enjoy reading this book and was interested to see how Jake and Anna would finally connect. I think the final quarter slowed down the pace of the novel and I simply wanted the characters to get together at last and resolve their differences. In my opinion, I feel like the writer prolonged this in order to get a Christmas market in the story, rather than leaving it at a more natural conclusion. Furthermore, the monologues were not my favourite way of getting to know Jake and Anna; I wanted to feel more immersed in the narrative with a first person perspective.
This is the start of a series set at Pepper Bay and I think I could identify which characters would feature in future novels. Jake does have a brother but he is absent for most of the story; I would be interested to read more about him and his background too. Consequently, despite some of my misgivings, I think I will try and catch the rest of the books at Pepper Bay as I am intrigued to see the stories of other characters.
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When we first meet Jake and Anna, they could not be more contrasting. Whilst Jake has the money, the pent house and seemingly a bachelor lifestyle, Anna is the opposite: no job, no home and living on the roof of the building that Jake resides in. Chalk and cheese! Indeed, when Anna is first introduced, her bedraggled, dirty appearance had both Jake and I wrinkling our noses in distaste. Poor Max, Anna’s dog, also suffers from the lack of bathing and I felt like I could smell ‘wet dog’ coming from my Kindle!
As you would anticipate with such a story, the paths of Jake and Anna cross: Jake becomes Anna’s knight in shining armour and takes her away to the Isle of Wight where they stay in his grandmother’s childhood home. The way Jake’s home is described makes it sound incredibly snuggly and idyllic – a perfectly, cosy setting for when a huge dumping of snow arrives! With Jake and Anna trying to come to terms with their feelings, trust one another and also recover from a near-tragedy, the story follows the characters as they attempt to come closer but without mis-reading the situation. Of course, there is a massive bump in the road for them both which is gradually resolved.
Dady structures this narrative in third person and each chapter switches from Jake and Anna. It is primarily told in third person but Dady moves to the character’s internal monologues in first person. And there is a lot of these through the story. These thoughts are shown in italics and I think I would have preferred the story to be told from Jake and Anna’s perspectives completely, rather than switching from third to first person all the time. In my opinion, it reduced the flow of the narrative and would have made it easier to connect with the characters.
Yes, this is a sweet romance story and it is set around Christmas time. Although the story takes place in winter, it is only until the latter half of the story did I get a true sense of the festive time of year. Snow made a big difference, but I think you can associate snow with something other than Christmas?! Therefore, I think this book works perfectly as a ‘winter warmer’ either side of Christmas. It is heart-warming, which is just what the characters need with such poor weather.
I did enjoy reading this book and was interested to see how Jake and Anna would finally connect. I think the final quarter slowed down the pace of the novel and I simply wanted the characters to get together at last and resolve their differences. In my opinion, I feel like the writer prolonged this in order to get a Christmas market in the story, rather than leaving it at a more natural conclusion. Furthermore, the monologues were not my favourite way of getting to know Jake and Anna; I wanted to feel more immersed in the narrative with a first person perspective.
This is the start of a series set at Pepper Bay and I think I could identify which characters would feature in future novels. Jake does have a brother but he is absent for most of the story; I would be interested to read more about him and his background too. Consequently, despite some of my misgivings, I think I will try and catch the rest of the books at Pepper Bay as I am intrigued to see the stories of other characters.
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
This is the first book in the Pepper Bay series and it is an absolutely gorgeous book to read. I was only planning on reading a couple of chapters before going to sleep and found myself reading until just before 1 am!
This is the story of two people who, when they first meet don't really make the best impression. Anna Cooper first meets Jake Reynolds in a lift. He is immaculately dressed, while she is stood dripping wet next to her rather smelly and equally as wet dog, Max.
Fast forward a little and the two gradually spark a friendship, both have got issues that stem from the past. Now, this I really liked as the author has brought into this story mental health issues. Both of the characters have different problems and the author have worked them really well into the story. I do think the way she has dealt with them gives a very good understanding of the reactions of both the characters.
This story is a gorgeous read I was taken to the most idyllic sounding Pepper Bay. A wonderful community where the locals know everyone and are pretty much up to speed as things happen. This makes for a close-knit and wonderfully caring vibe as I was reading.
Things are not straightforward in this story, and nothing is to be taken for granted. What initially started as a story that you might say could be a little far fetched, just held me and didn't let me go. A chance for second chances, for fresh starts and to learn to be with others and part of something.
This is a stunning read and one that I absolutely adored. Ideal for fans of romance and contemporary fiction. It's one I would definitely recommend.
This is the story of two people who, when they first meet don't really make the best impression. Anna Cooper first meets Jake Reynolds in a lift. He is immaculately dressed, while she is stood dripping wet next to her rather smelly and equally as wet dog, Max.
Fast forward a little and the two gradually spark a friendship, both have got issues that stem from the past. Now, this I really liked as the author has brought into this story mental health issues. Both of the characters have different problems and the author have worked them really well into the story. I do think the way she has dealt with them gives a very good understanding of the reactions of both the characters.
This story is a gorgeous read I was taken to the most idyllic sounding Pepper Bay. A wonderful community where the locals know everyone and are pretty much up to speed as things happen. This makes for a close-knit and wonderfully caring vibe as I was reading.
Things are not straightforward in this story, and nothing is to be taken for granted. What initially started as a story that you might say could be a little far fetched, just held me and didn't let me go. A chance for second chances, for fresh starts and to learn to be with others and part of something.
This is a stunning read and one that I absolutely adored. Ideal for fans of romance and contemporary fiction. It's one I would definitely recommend.
July 26, 2021
This is a cute and clean romance, but there's still want and desire between our couple.
Jake he lives the high life, clean freak with a few issues - he had an air of a certain Mr Grey to me. I liked him though.
Anna is down on her luck when she first meets Jake and it obvious his not impressed.
Spending time together he soon realises his first impression was wrong. Anna is a warm and caring person, guarded, yes but so is Jake so walls need to tumble.
There's no major angst, it's an easy read set mainly in cute a welcoming village.
Perfect sunny afternoon read, or cosy sofa read.
Jake he lives the high life, clean freak with a few issues - he had an air of a certain Mr Grey to me. I liked him though.
Anna is down on her luck when she first meets Jake and it obvious his not impressed.
Spending time together he soon realises his first impression was wrong. Anna is a warm and caring person, guarded, yes but so is Jake so walls need to tumble.
There's no major angst, it's an easy read set mainly in cute a welcoming village.
Perfect sunny afternoon read, or cosy sofa read.
January 9, 2023
I read Pepper River Inn ( book 6) over Christmas and loved it so I decided to read the series. Loving the set up and the cute romance between Jake and Anna. The characters are great and Pepper Bay sounds a wonderful community to be a part of.
September 7, 2021
For my copy of this book, I say thank you.
After enjoying reading it, here's my honest review:
This is a heartwarming contemporary romance
Where love means giving each other a chance.
There's a delightful dog, Max, who steals some scenes
And a couple who find what love and romance means.
Anna is living in a tent on the roof of River Heights
Whilst Jake lives in the minimalist penthouse with no delights.
When he discovers where Anna now lives
A great opportunity to her he gives.
Together they travel to Pepper Bay and his family home,
Starlight Cottage, where they return after they roam.
The area is filled with fantastic folk who
Support each other in all they do.
Can these two finally open their heart
Or will fear and worry keep them apart?
You need to read this book to discover
What happens for them to end up with one another!
From London to the Isle of Wight
Reading this book is a total delight.
It is set in Pepper Bay where
The community support each other and care.
After enjoying reading it, here's my honest review:
This is a heartwarming contemporary romance
Where love means giving each other a chance.
There's a delightful dog, Max, who steals some scenes
And a couple who find what love and romance means.
Anna is living in a tent on the roof of River Heights
Whilst Jake lives in the minimalist penthouse with no delights.
When he discovers where Anna now lives
A great opportunity to her he gives.
Together they travel to Pepper Bay and his family home,
Starlight Cottage, where they return after they roam.
The area is filled with fantastic folk who
Support each other in all they do.
Can these two finally open their heart
Or will fear and worry keep them apart?
You need to read this book to discover
What happens for them to end up with one another!
From London to the Isle of Wight
Reading this book is a total delight.
It is set in Pepper Bay where
The community support each other and care.
July 23, 2021
The main reason I like this story is because it takes me to a beautiful chocolate box cottage on the Isle of Wight, and I get to pretend I live there for a while.
October 27, 2021
When Anna and Jake met for the first time, in a lift, they couldn’t have been more opposite in their appearance. Jake was immaculately dressed, while Anna was dripping wet and accompanied by her equally wet and slightly smelly dog, Max. Since this was the building Jake lived in, he wondered what this woman and that creature were doing there.
Soon circumstances throw them together and they discover that everything is not what it seems. Jake’s gruff and arrogant manner hides a soft, vulnerable heart. Coming to know about Anna’s circumstances, he convinces her to go with him to Pepper Bay, a place he spent a lot of time with his grandparents in Starlight Cottage.
In Pepper Bay, Anna sees another side to Jake and watches how the community treats him as family. She falls in love with Pepper Bay, even while realizing that she can’t really stay on.
Both Anna and Jake have anxiety issues stemming from their past. How they begin to trust one another and start to heal makes for a very sweet, sometimes heart-breaking story.
Two lovely main characters and a sweet dog were enough to keep me reading on once I started. But all the other characters of this idyllic community and a beautifully told story make this a very memorable read.
I’m looking forward to reading another book in this series soon.
Soon circumstances throw them together and they discover that everything is not what it seems. Jake’s gruff and arrogant manner hides a soft, vulnerable heart. Coming to know about Anna’s circumstances, he convinces her to go with him to Pepper Bay, a place he spent a lot of time with his grandparents in Starlight Cottage.
In Pepper Bay, Anna sees another side to Jake and watches how the community treats him as family. She falls in love with Pepper Bay, even while realizing that she can’t really stay on.
Both Anna and Jake have anxiety issues stemming from their past. How they begin to trust one another and start to heal makes for a very sweet, sometimes heart-breaking story.
Two lovely main characters and a sweet dog were enough to keep me reading on once I started. But all the other characters of this idyllic community and a beautifully told story make this a very memorable read.
I’m looking forward to reading another book in this series soon.
November 7, 2022
This story is a balm for the soul - the characters, the cosy setting of Pepper Bay, the fact that you can imagine yourself there with them all. And underlying it all, such a gorgeous romance story. Highly recommend.
September 19, 2021
Where could one meeting bring two broken hearted persons…
Anna Cooper is currently in a dark place… she thought that breaking up with her then – boyfriend Rob, would be the start of her new and brighter life. But she didn’t expect to be living in a tent on the roof of luxury London building River Heights with her dog Max. Of course it’s only a temporarily thing, just until she has her life back on tracks. Luckily she can count on Stan, the building manager, giving her a cover and a helping hand. Jake Reynolds is also staying at River Heights, only he is living in luxury in the penthouse. When Jake discovers Anna’s secret, he offers not only to clean his penthouse, but he also offers her the chance of a new life in Pepper Bay, in his grandmother’s childhood Starlight Cottage, a place he avoided as much as possible. Will Starlight Cottage and Pepper Bay, with all the quaint shops and everyone close to Jake and his family, be the home Anna was longing to find? And is Pepper Bay the only thing Anna will find herself falling in love with?
When as a reader I discovered about Anna’s current living accommodations, I felt truly sorry for her. Of course, not knowing the whole story, I found it hard to understand that there wasn’t any other solution. And the fact that Anna is a kind and lovely woman, made it even more sad for her, being at the mercy of other people. Luckily she has Stan, who does so much more than he is allowed, just to help her out. When more is known of the reason she is where she is, I felt so much more sadness for her, and so much anger for her ex – boyfriend Rob. The sense of injustice was so overwhelming, it got me almost yelling at the book!
Jake was a harder nut to crack. he doesn’t have any money problems, and is living in his penthouse. My first impression of Jake wasn’t a positive one, the way he reacts to Anna and Max. I found it hard to understand why it would be so difficult to just show some kindness. Yet I found it really sweet how he started to care for Anna and Max, by following her grandfather’s last moment of advice. And showing this other side of him, made it for a reader clear that he has so much to offer, only is he afraid of showing it.
I found Pepper Bay, and Starlight Cottage a wonderful place to read about. It was funny how Jake was welcomed back, like he actually is one of the family. And how people around there making assumptions, creating some awkward situations. But Pepper Bay shows also towards Anna how welcoming and caring and just how lovely the inhabitants are. They open their arms and also hearts for her, understanding her without many words being spoken.
I also had many laughs, because it’s obvious that there are feelings developing between Jake and Anna, but as they are not expressing them, again here many understandings are being created. And I found it adorable to read how Jake would become jealous when Anna quickly befriends his own best friend Nate! Maybe the feelings are developing a bit too fast for my taste, but on the other hand, nobody can stop what they feel… Even if there is a difference in status, Jake being obviously “better off” compared to Anna, nobody can command the heart. And even if Jake, while just wanting to help Anna, does the wrong thing, I couldn’t blame him, because he does it all with from the kindness from his heart. And seeing how both these characters are changing, by being with each other, was really sweet to read. Jake is showing more and more his true character, wanting to help out, while Anna is learning to stand up for herself, even if it’s against Jake himself.
I found this a heart – warming story, about two broken people, trying to find happiness and love again. It shows us that sometimes people do the wrong thing, but only with the best interest at heart. And that with the right person by your side, you will able to dare to open your heart and not be afraid to love anymore. A wonderful story with a wonderful message!
Anna Cooper is currently in a dark place… she thought that breaking up with her then – boyfriend Rob, would be the start of her new and brighter life. But she didn’t expect to be living in a tent on the roof of luxury London building River Heights with her dog Max. Of course it’s only a temporarily thing, just until she has her life back on tracks. Luckily she can count on Stan, the building manager, giving her a cover and a helping hand. Jake Reynolds is also staying at River Heights, only he is living in luxury in the penthouse. When Jake discovers Anna’s secret, he offers not only to clean his penthouse, but he also offers her the chance of a new life in Pepper Bay, in his grandmother’s childhood Starlight Cottage, a place he avoided as much as possible. Will Starlight Cottage and Pepper Bay, with all the quaint shops and everyone close to Jake and his family, be the home Anna was longing to find? And is Pepper Bay the only thing Anna will find herself falling in love with?
When as a reader I discovered about Anna’s current living accommodations, I felt truly sorry for her. Of course, not knowing the whole story, I found it hard to understand that there wasn’t any other solution. And the fact that Anna is a kind and lovely woman, made it even more sad for her, being at the mercy of other people. Luckily she has Stan, who does so much more than he is allowed, just to help her out. When more is known of the reason she is where she is, I felt so much more sadness for her, and so much anger for her ex – boyfriend Rob. The sense of injustice was so overwhelming, it got me almost yelling at the book!
Jake was a harder nut to crack. he doesn’t have any money problems, and is living in his penthouse. My first impression of Jake wasn’t a positive one, the way he reacts to Anna and Max. I found it hard to understand why it would be so difficult to just show some kindness. Yet I found it really sweet how he started to care for Anna and Max, by following her grandfather’s last moment of advice. And showing this other side of him, made it for a reader clear that he has so much to offer, only is he afraid of showing it.
I found Pepper Bay, and Starlight Cottage a wonderful place to read about. It was funny how Jake was welcomed back, like he actually is one of the family. And how people around there making assumptions, creating some awkward situations. But Pepper Bay shows also towards Anna how welcoming and caring and just how lovely the inhabitants are. They open their arms and also hearts for her, understanding her without many words being spoken.
I also had many laughs, because it’s obvious that there are feelings developing between Jake and Anna, but as they are not expressing them, again here many understandings are being created. And I found it adorable to read how Jake would become jealous when Anna quickly befriends his own best friend Nate! Maybe the feelings are developing a bit too fast for my taste, but on the other hand, nobody can stop what they feel… Even if there is a difference in status, Jake being obviously “better off” compared to Anna, nobody can command the heart. And even if Jake, while just wanting to help Anna, does the wrong thing, I couldn’t blame him, because he does it all with from the kindness from his heart. And seeing how both these characters are changing, by being with each other, was really sweet to read. Jake is showing more and more his true character, wanting to help out, while Anna is learning to stand up for herself, even if it’s against Jake himself.
I found this a heart – warming story, about two broken people, trying to find happiness and love again. It shows us that sometimes people do the wrong thing, but only with the best interest at heart. And that with the right person by your side, you will able to dare to open your heart and not be afraid to love anymore. A wonderful story with a wonderful message!
September 9, 2021
Anna is having some bad luck. She currently is living in a tent on the roof of Jake's luxury apartment complex. Let me say right off the bat that she is one strong lady! I don't know if I could do that. Jake steps in to help when he finds out and offers her not only a job but also the chance to stay at his grandmother's home in Pepper Bay. Anna jumps at the chance to have a fresh start and Pepper Bay is the kind of town that you just fall in love with. Anna does just that but also manages to fall in love with Jake along the way.
Anna is one of those people who no matter what happens will always have hope that things will get better. Many people would see living in a tent as rock bottom. Anna is just determined to make the best of it and move forward in life.
She hasn't been harden by her bad luck and that is a rare thing today. Jake is her polar opposite in that he tends to keep things close to the vest, so to speak. He doesn't let a lot of people into his life and I loved how he seemed to easily let Anna in.
This is the classic Cinderella story but with a modern sort of twist. The setting of Pepper Bay could not have been more perfect for this story. I loved every second of it.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
Anna is one of those people who no matter what happens will always have hope that things will get better. Many people would see living in a tent as rock bottom. Anna is just determined to make the best of it and move forward in life.
She hasn't been harden by her bad luck and that is a rare thing today. Jake is her polar opposite in that he tends to keep things close to the vest, so to speak. He doesn't let a lot of people into his life and I loved how he seemed to easily let Anna in.
This is the classic Cinderella story but with a modern sort of twist. The setting of Pepper Bay could not have been more perfect for this story. I loved every second of it.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
September 3, 2021
I was really excited when I started reading Starlight Cottage as it had come up quite a bit on social media and who doesn’t love rom-com in a tight knit community? Even the cover was dreamy!
The story starts of in London where the two main characters meet. They couldn’t be more different. Anna had basically nothing other than her dog Max and is very careful, but also sweet. Jake comes across as a rich playboy with more money than he knows what to do with and perhaps also a bit uptight and controlling.
Once these two characters get to know each other better they realize there is more to both of them than what one expects based on first impressions. As the romance unfolds it also become clear they both come with quite a lot of bagage. In some ways this was a bit like a rom-com version of The Fifty Shades of Grey. I think several readers will think of Grey when reading about Jake, but a softer version and the story is also softer, sweeter and more uplifting… basically just rom-com!
I absolutely loved the setting once the story moved to Starlight Cottage and Pepper Bay. The people and the community there were all great and I can’t wait to read more Pepper Bay stories focusing on other characters… at least that is what I am hoping for! The Tea Room and The Book Gallery and all the rest of Pepper Bay Lane just sounded so charming and like a dream place.
The story was told alternating between Anna and Jake, giving us a full picture and although all chapters were written in third person each chapter also contained their inner thoughts in italics, giving us a much more complete picture and showing their insecurities and struggles a lot clearer than if it had only been told in third person. The writing was smooth and good, which made for a real easy read and makes me want more books by this author.
The story starts of in London where the two main characters meet. They couldn’t be more different. Anna had basically nothing other than her dog Max and is very careful, but also sweet. Jake comes across as a rich playboy with more money than he knows what to do with and perhaps also a bit uptight and controlling.
Once these two characters get to know each other better they realize there is more to both of them than what one expects based on first impressions. As the romance unfolds it also become clear they both come with quite a lot of bagage. In some ways this was a bit like a rom-com version of The Fifty Shades of Grey. I think several readers will think of Grey when reading about Jake, but a softer version and the story is also softer, sweeter and more uplifting… basically just rom-com!
I absolutely loved the setting once the story moved to Starlight Cottage and Pepper Bay. The people and the community there were all great and I can’t wait to read more Pepper Bay stories focusing on other characters… at least that is what I am hoping for! The Tea Room and The Book Gallery and all the rest of Pepper Bay Lane just sounded so charming and like a dream place.
The story was told alternating between Anna and Jake, giving us a full picture and although all chapters were written in third person each chapter also contained their inner thoughts in italics, giving us a much more complete picture and showing their insecurities and struggles a lot clearer than if it had only been told in third person. The writing was smooth and good, which made for a real easy read and makes me want more books by this author.
September 3, 2021
This is a great introduction to a new series, with several potential characters set up for subsequent novels. This first one introduces you to Pepper Bay, set on the Isle of Wight, and centres on Jake and Anna's story. It is a lovely, uplifting story to take you into Autumn, culminating with a few Christmassy scenes to get you in the mood for what is to come! Anna and Jake have their own pasts which have left their imprint on their mental health and they have some difficult issues to begin to come to terms with. They could not come from two more different backgrounds. Jake is privileged, Anna from a care background but they begin to see that they have quite a lot in common.
Family and friends are at the centre of the story. The community of Pepper Bay is so enticing and who wouldn't want to stay in this delightful place? With such a welcome and kindness from the locals, Anna sees the chance for a new life but it remains to be seen whether she can take the risk and the opportunities. This is a heart-warming read which has some lovely references to reading and romance novels which connect the reader to the story. You are also given alternating chapters from Anna and Jake's point of view and I especially liked glimpsing those unspoken thoughts which tell you so much.
In short: Second chances in the beautiful Pepper Bay
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
Family and friends are at the centre of the story. The community of Pepper Bay is so enticing and who wouldn't want to stay in this delightful place? With such a welcome and kindness from the locals, Anna sees the chance for a new life but it remains to be seen whether she can take the risk and the opportunities. This is a heart-warming read which has some lovely references to reading and romance novels which connect the reader to the story. You are also given alternating chapters from Anna and Jake's point of view and I especially liked glimpsing those unspoken thoughts which tell you so much.
In short: Second chances in the beautiful Pepper Bay
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
September 10, 2021
K.T. Dady is a new author to me but I adored this novel and it certainly won’t be my last one.
The first few chapters broke my heart. Finding out about Anna’s life in the early chapters really made me think but her outlook was so determined and grateful for the things she had. She was such a sweet character, and I was rooting for her the whole way. She deserved so much. Initially Jake was a prickly character, but it wasn’t long before his harsh front was chipped away and his softer side was revealed. He also was such a likeable character and the friendship between them was really comforting and heart-warming to read.
The use of mental health is very sensitively done but works incredibly well. Both characters struggle with different aspects for different reasons but it helps to cement their friendship as they support and care for each other.
The setting of Pepper Bay is so quaint and charming I couldn’t help but be transported there. It’s so beautifully described. I’m also a sucker for books set withing a small community and this one really hit that spot.
Starlight Cottage is great escapism and although tackles so deep issues, it is done gently. It’s such a cosy book to read and it’s perfect for this rainy weekend we seem to be having.
The first few chapters broke my heart. Finding out about Anna’s life in the early chapters really made me think but her outlook was so determined and grateful for the things she had. She was such a sweet character, and I was rooting for her the whole way. She deserved so much. Initially Jake was a prickly character, but it wasn’t long before his harsh front was chipped away and his softer side was revealed. He also was such a likeable character and the friendship between them was really comforting and heart-warming to read.
The use of mental health is very sensitively done but works incredibly well. Both characters struggle with different aspects for different reasons but it helps to cement their friendship as they support and care for each other.
The setting of Pepper Bay is so quaint and charming I couldn’t help but be transported there. It’s so beautifully described. I’m also a sucker for books set withing a small community and this one really hit that spot.
Starlight Cottage is great escapism and although tackles so deep issues, it is done gently. It’s such a cosy book to read and it’s perfect for this rainy weekend we seem to be having.
April 7, 2022
A new to me author and series which is set in Pepper Bay, Isle of Wight. Jake, Grandson and joint owner (with his brother) of a string of very successful coffee shops, and Anna, a girl down on her luck, are the main characters.
Jake meets Anna when she's living in a tent, on the roof of his serviced building in London. Along with Max, Anna's dog, the 3 form an unlikely friendship. When Jake takes her to Pepper Bay, the place his Grandmother called home for many years, he reconnects with his friends and realises he needs Anna in his life. Anna has come out of a controlling relationship, can she handle Jake and his strange ways?
I couldn't put this book down, it was a really good read. I've already downloaded the rest of the books available in the series so far, and diaried the release dates of the rest.
Jake meets Anna when she's living in a tent, on the roof of his serviced building in London. Along with Max, Anna's dog, the 3 form an unlikely friendship. When Jake takes her to Pepper Bay, the place his Grandmother called home for many years, he reconnects with his friends and realises he needs Anna in his life. Anna has come out of a controlling relationship, can she handle Jake and his strange ways?
I couldn't put this book down, it was a really good read. I've already downloaded the rest of the books available in the series so far, and diaried the release dates of the rest.
September 6, 2021
The first meeting between Anna and Jake isn't promising, but it introduces the characters succinctly and adds some lovely touches of humour and poignancy. Max the dog is a lovely character, the perfect friend, and matchmaker. Pepper Bay proves to be their salvation, with its caring, kindly intrusive community and coastal beauty. Both characters have emotional journeys to travel to reach their happy place, and the reader is immersed in their story and wants them to get there.
This is a gentle romance with believable characters that is an engaging read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This is a gentle romance with believable characters that is an engaging read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
September 13, 2021
This is the first book by K.T. Dady that I’ve read. I jumped in after following her on Instagram for awhile, completely intrigued with the idea of her stories.
The first few pages of this were difficult for me because of the hardships that Anna has to endure and the fact that Jake seems so put off by her at first.
But, it didn’t take long for me to see Jake’s and Anna’s relationship blossom into one of beauty and love…Even if it did take awhile for either of them to see it!
The side characters were charming and funny, and Starlight Cottage is a place that I yearn to visit. And these characters will be with me for some time to come! I can’t wait to read more!
The first few pages of this were difficult for me because of the hardships that Anna has to endure and the fact that Jake seems so put off by her at first.
But, it didn’t take long for me to see Jake’s and Anna’s relationship blossom into one of beauty and love…Even if it did take awhile for either of them to see it!
The side characters were charming and funny, and Starlight Cottage is a place that I yearn to visit. And these characters will be with me for some time to come! I can’t wait to read more!
September 8, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and the first in the Pepper Bay series, however, it can be read as stand alone.
This is a lovely read set in a beautiful location. I could easily imagine myself there.
Jake and Anna indivually have many issues to overcome and we follow their journey as they work through them. I enjoyed the many twists and turns. The book is filled with so many lovely, likeable characters and I love the quaint setting and community spirit that is portrayed.
I will be looking out for more books from this author in the future.
This is a lovely read set in a beautiful location. I could easily imagine myself there.
Jake and Anna indivually have many issues to overcome and we follow their journey as they work through them. I enjoyed the many twists and turns. The book is filled with so many lovely, likeable characters and I love the quaint setting and community spirit that is portrayed.
I will be looking out for more books from this author in the future.
October 25, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to the author for very kindly forwarding me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
Starlight Cottage is the first book in the Pepper Bay series and is based on a small close-knit community.
I really loved Anna, she just comes across as being a lovely person and so full of extermination, she never likes to give up hope, no matter what happens.
Anna and Jake were complete opposites but after slowly getting to know one another they just seem to simply work.
This was a wonderful, feel good, emotional story and I can’t wait to find out what happens next….
Starlight Cottage is the first book in the Pepper Bay series and is based on a small close-knit community.
I really loved Anna, she just comes across as being a lovely person and so full of extermination, she never likes to give up hope, no matter what happens.
Anna and Jake were complete opposites but after slowly getting to know one another they just seem to simply work.
This was a wonderful, feel good, emotional story and I can’t wait to find out what happens next….
September 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! I'm loving easy town stories and this one was so good.
We meet Anna who was going through a rough patch living on the roof of Jake's building. He steps in to try to help her....
I'm excited to read more in the series, but I did find myself getting frustrated this how such small things got blown up in the story 🤷 Just my opinion!
I also felt so many characters were 4 lettered J starting names so I kept having to go back and check who was who 🤣
We meet Anna who was going through a rough patch living on the roof of Jake's building. He steps in to try to help her....
I'm excited to read more in the series, but I did find myself getting frustrated this how such small things got blown up in the story 🤷 Just my opinion!
I also felt so many characters were 4 lettered J starting names so I kept having to go back and check who was who 🤣
September 6, 2021
Review......⭐⭐⭐⭐
I read this wonderful book in 1 sitting.
It was a lovely feel good read. I loved Jack and Anna. Although you could predict what was going to happen I was swept along by the story. I loved Pebble Bay 🥰
A must read for those looking for a contemporary romance
Thanks to @randomthingstour @ktdady for gifting me this book to read and review 🥰
I read this wonderful book in 1 sitting.
It was a lovely feel good read. I loved Jack and Anna. Although you could predict what was going to happen I was swept along by the story. I loved Pebble Bay 🥰
A must read for those looking for a contemporary romance
Thanks to @randomthingstour @ktdady for gifting me this book to read and review 🥰
September 11, 2021
What a great read.
So much happened in a fast pace but short little story.
So much info and detail about a dreamy little place I think anyone would want to live.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
So much happened in a fast pace but short little story.
So much info and detail about a dreamy little place I think anyone would want to live.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
September 13, 2021
Holiday-well spent
Unexpectedly booked the week off work and if is this first day am looking forward to the rest. Spent the afternoon reading this book cover to cover and enjoyed it so much. Not too mushy and liked the vulnerability of the male character. Loved it
Unexpectedly booked the week off work and if is this first day am looking forward to the rest. Spent the afternoon reading this book cover to cover and enjoyed it so much. Not too mushy and liked the vulnerability of the male character. Loved it
June 29, 2025
DNF @ 76%
I just kept waiting for it to get better…and it didn’t.
I just kept waiting for it to get better…and it didn’t.
June 14, 2024
I am late to the pepper bay series, but really enjoyed this one and look foward to diving into the rest of the series.
November 24, 2021
✨Small town cozy romances are such fun reads. This one starts out with Jake and Anna. They both live at the same luxury building, Jake in the penthouse and Anna on the roof in a tent. When Jake finds out, he offers her an all inclusive chance at a new left. He gives her a job, offers to let her stay at his cottage in Pepper Bay, and unbeknownst to both of them gives her a chance at love.
✨The characters in the story we’re so fun, I loved the small town vibe, and there was a cute dog thrown in the mix. The small town of Pepper Bay sounds quaint and peaceful and just perfect, with lovely descriptions from the author, making this a great escape from reality novel.
✨This is a perfect story filled with second chances, learning to let people in, and being a part of the community. I will definitely be looking to read more books from this author!
✨The characters in the story we’re so fun, I loved the small town vibe, and there was a cute dog thrown in the mix. The small town of Pepper Bay sounds quaint and peaceful and just perfect, with lovely descriptions from the author, making this a great escape from reality novel.
✨This is a perfect story filled with second chances, learning to let people in, and being a part of the community. I will definitely be looking to read more books from this author!
December 1, 2023
This was a gamble for me as I don't usually read this genre. The story was good, but what massively let it down (for me) was the first person narrative giving the protagonists' inner dialogue. I found it patronising. We don't need to know what Jake or Anna are thinking in response to every interaction. We can work that out by their response. It made the narrative a bit repetitive. We pretty much know what they think of each other by the end of the first couple of chapters, so all this italic inner dialogue felt like unnecessary filler and just irritated me. As I assume it's the author's usual style, I won't be reading any others in the series. It's a shame, as the setting and the background characters were sympathetic, and I would have wanted to read more about them.
February 28, 2023
Starlight Cottage KT Dady
Starlight Cottage tells the romantic, and not without adversity tale of Anna and Jake, from the hustle and bustle of London life to the quaint, close knit community of Pepper Bay.
Dealing with homelessness, trust, mental ill health, a previous controlling relationship and fear of emotional transparency, the pair both carry their own baggage whilst getting to know one another. With challenges, diversions and fear along the way, the story tells of relationship development, dilemma and personal resilience.
A lovely story with enchanting characters and a loveable dog named Max. An excellent read, from a talented author. Highly recommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Starlight Cottage tells the romantic, and not without adversity tale of Anna and Jake, from the hustle and bustle of London life to the quaint, close knit community of Pepper Bay.
Dealing with homelessness, trust, mental ill health, a previous controlling relationship and fear of emotional transparency, the pair both carry their own baggage whilst getting to know one another. With challenges, diversions and fear along the way, the story tells of relationship development, dilemma and personal resilience.
A lovely story with enchanting characters and a loveable dog named Max. An excellent read, from a talented author. Highly recommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 13, 2024
This story takes place during November and in the early days of December. I felt very hygge and Christmassy reading it and am already dreaming of winter wonderlands. I like the setting a lot. Now that I think about it, the romance is like a k-drama - Poor girl lives out of a tent on the roof of a luxury residence. In swoops the rich, handsome guy who loves her unconditionally and offers her a way out. Extremely dramatic and ridiculous but my goodness, their love story made my heart flutter. The plot was entertaining and the conversations between the characters flowed well.
There were so many romantic moments, my favourite being the one when I also like the inclusion of a side character, Nate Walker, who will be featured in one of the following books in this series. Nate added a level of rivalry (no, it isn't a love triangle) that was cute and amusing to read.
Another noteworthy thing to add is that despite his good looks and obvious charisma, Jake had control issues - Not a lot of male leads I read about suffer from deep personal issues, so I appreciated that the author made sure that Jake had his weaknesses too, although it was painful to read about.
The dog, Max, stole the show by being the world's cutest and most loyal fictional fur buddy.
My first K.T. Dady read and it won't be the last! Can't wait to check out the rest of Pepper Bay.
52 Book Club 2024: #22 - Plot similar to another book
There were so many romantic moments, my favourite being the one when I also like the inclusion of a side character, Nate Walker, who will be featured in one of the following books in this series. Nate added a level of rivalry (no, it isn't a love triangle) that was cute and amusing to read.
Another noteworthy thing to add is that despite his good looks and obvious charisma, Jake had control issues - Not a lot of male leads I read about suffer from deep personal issues, so I appreciated that the author made sure that Jake had his weaknesses too, although it was painful to read about.
The dog, Max, stole the show by being the world's cutest and most loyal fictional fur buddy.
My first K.T. Dady read and it won't be the last! Can't wait to check out the rest of Pepper Bay.
52 Book Club 2024: #22 - Plot similar to another book
February 11, 2023
Starlight Cottage by K.T. Dady
Blurb
Welcome to Pepper Bay. A small close-knit community where you’ll find chocolate box cottages, quaint shops, love, drama, and a happily ever after.
Starlight Cottage: Anna Cooper and Jake Reynolds both live at a luxury London building. The only difference is that Jake lives in the penthouse, and Anna lives in a tent on the roof.
When Jake finds out, he offers Anna a chance of a new life in his grandmother’s childhood home in Pepper Bay, and she decides to take the opportunity to see if she really can make a fresh start somewhere else.
The beauty of Pepper Bay, with its quaint shops, chocolate box cottages, and all of Jake’s closest friends, immediately fills Anna’s heart with nothing but love, and it isn’t just Starlight Cottage that she finds herself falling in love with.
My Opinion
I have read a few of the later books in this series, so I was eager to go back and start from the beginning. It was nice to see how the series began with this heart-warming read. Anna has led a difficult life but never gives up hope. This book is filled with some very likeable characters and I am already planning my next visit to Pepper Bay.
Rating 4/5
Blurb
Welcome to Pepper Bay. A small close-knit community where you’ll find chocolate box cottages, quaint shops, love, drama, and a happily ever after.
Starlight Cottage: Anna Cooper and Jake Reynolds both live at a luxury London building. The only difference is that Jake lives in the penthouse, and Anna lives in a tent on the roof.
When Jake finds out, he offers Anna a chance of a new life in his grandmother’s childhood home in Pepper Bay, and she decides to take the opportunity to see if she really can make a fresh start somewhere else.
The beauty of Pepper Bay, with its quaint shops, chocolate box cottages, and all of Jake’s closest friends, immediately fills Anna’s heart with nothing but love, and it isn’t just Starlight Cottage that she finds herself falling in love with.
My Opinion
I have read a few of the later books in this series, so I was eager to go back and start from the beginning. It was nice to see how the series began with this heart-warming read. Anna has led a difficult life but never gives up hope. This book is filled with some very likeable characters and I am already planning my next visit to Pepper Bay.
Rating 4/5
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