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Harbor Cove #1
The Marvelous Monroe Girls
A heartwarming story of sisterhood, second chances, and falling in love
Gabriella Monroe is doing her best to pretend that everything is fine, but her life is a mess. Sales are down at her vintage dress shop, her beloved grandmother isn’t her usual spunky self, and Gabby desperately misses the closeness she had with her sisters, Margaret and Emma—who were once so inseparable that their family called them the Monroe Musketeers.
When the sisters stumble across a stash of letters that reveals their grandmother’s secret life, Gabby sees an opportunity to bring the sisters back together again and best of all, raise her grandmother’s spirits. And sure, this new project makes it easier to pretend her own life isn’t crashing around her, but concentrating on helping everyone else and ignoring her own feelings is what Gabby does best.
Except when it comes to Jake Maddox. Once the boy next door she crushed on—hard—he’s grown into an even more intriguing man, and her attraction to him isn’t so easy to hide. It’s clear he’s just as interested in her, but dating Jake would only muddy up her already complicated life. Or is it finally time to put herself first and risk it all for a chance at happiness?
Gabriella Monroe is doing her best to pretend that everything is fine, but her life is a mess. Sales are down at her vintage dress shop, her beloved grandmother isn’t her usual spunky self, and Gabby desperately misses the closeness she had with her sisters, Margaret and Emma—who were once so inseparable that their family called them the Monroe Musketeers.
When the sisters stumble across a stash of letters that reveals their grandmother’s secret life, Gabby sees an opportunity to bring the sisters back together again and best of all, raise her grandmother’s spirits. And sure, this new project makes it easier to pretend her own life isn’t crashing around her, but concentrating on helping everyone else and ignoring her own feelings is what Gabby does best.
Except when it comes to Jake Maddox. Once the boy next door she crushed on—hard—he’s grown into an even more intriguing man, and her attraction to him isn’t so easy to hide. It’s clear he’s just as interested in her, but dating Jake would only muddy up her already complicated life. Or is it finally time to put herself first and risk it all for a chance at happiness?
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published December 13, 2022
33 people are currently reading
626 people want to read
About the author
Shirley Jump
442 books743 followersShirley Jump is a writing instructor and an award-winning, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and USA Today bestselling author who has published more than 80 books in 24 countries. She has spoken all over the world about the power of narrative and how to create compelling books. A former reporter and communications director for a marketing agency, she uses her diverse background to help clients create impactful books that readers can’t down.
She knows the path to publication isn’t all rainbows and unicorns, so to help writers write their best possible book, she offers monthly Manuscript Masterminds through her website, www.WritingCompellingFiction.com.
On her channel, https://YouTube.com/@WritingCompellin..., she unlocks the secrets behind compelling novels and delves into the psychological aspect of overcoming creativity-stoppers like doubt and perfectionism. Follow her channel for more writing exercises, classes, and behind-the-scenes writing lessons or join her Manuscript Mastermind to build your tribe of like-minded writers and receive crucial feedback on your pages.
She knows the path to publication isn’t all rainbows and unicorns, so to help writers write their best possible book, she offers monthly Manuscript Masterminds through her website, www.WritingCompellingFiction.com.
On her channel, https://YouTube.com/@WritingCompellin..., she unlocks the secrets behind compelling novels and delves into the psychological aspect of overcoming creativity-stoppers like doubt and perfectionism. Follow her channel for more writing exercises, classes, and behind-the-scenes writing lessons or join her Manuscript Mastermind to build your tribe of like-minded writers and receive crucial feedback on your pages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 17, 2022
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is the first book in the new contemporary romance Harbor Cove series. This series will change main characters from book to book set in Harbor Cove although I believe it will be the Monroe sisters so overall it will read best in order but could be understood as a standalone if need be.
Gabby Monroe is at a time in her life she feels nothing is going as it should be and she really misses her sisters, Margaret and Emma. After Gabby stumbled upon some old letters of her grandmother’s she sees it as an opportunity to bring her family back together again inviting Margaret and Emma to home to Harbor Cove.
Gabby, Margaret and Emma embark on a quest to cheer up their grandmother who has seemed to be a bit down lately. The letters that they found point to her being an advice columnist so they find ways to get her to help. Of course helping her grandmother distracts Gabby from her own problems but their plans have Gabby crossing paths with Jake Maddox who Gabby used to have a crush on quite often.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump was a great opener to this new series with a sweet romance at it’s core. It was nice getting to know Gabby through her family and their connections along with slowly bringing a love interest into her life too. With a small town setting it wasn’t surprising to find myself enjoying this first book of the new series and interested in getting to know more about the other sisters in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Gabby Monroe is at a time in her life she feels nothing is going as it should be and she really misses her sisters, Margaret and Emma. After Gabby stumbled upon some old letters of her grandmother’s she sees it as an opportunity to bring her family back together again inviting Margaret and Emma to home to Harbor Cove.
Gabby, Margaret and Emma embark on a quest to cheer up their grandmother who has seemed to be a bit down lately. The letters that they found point to her being an advice columnist so they find ways to get her to help. Of course helping her grandmother distracts Gabby from her own problems but their plans have Gabby crossing paths with Jake Maddox who Gabby used to have a crush on quite often.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump was a great opener to this new series with a sweet romance at it’s core. It was nice getting to know Gabby through her family and their connections along with slowly bringing a love interest into her life too. With a small town setting it wasn’t surprising to find myself enjoying this first book of the new series and interested in getting to know more about the other sisters in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
December 30, 2021
This was such a fun read. I long to have sisters to share everything with. This story made me long for that close nit family even more. I love the sweet romance too. This is a fast, fun read.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
September 15, 2021
The marvelous adventures of the Monroe sisters unfold in the charming little town of Harbor Cove. Sisters Gabby, Emma, and Margaret have drifted away over the years. Worried about their grandmother's odd behavior, Gabby tries to bring the sisters back together. Helping Gabby search the attic for a vintage dress, the sisters stumble upon letters to Dear Amelia, an advice column possibly written by their grandmother. While helping their grandmother feel needed again by working behind the scenes, making sure her advice plays out, the sisters just may find where they belong as a family. And Gabby just may find exactly what she needs when it comes to love.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is endearing as cookie crumbs, charming as a hot cup of tea, and sweet as honey. The Monroe girls will warm your heart to the very last page.
Thank you NetGalley and Central (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is endearing as cookie crumbs, charming as a hot cup of tea, and sweet as honey. The Monroe girls will warm your heart to the very last page.
Thank you NetGalley and Central (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
January 22, 2022
A Hallmark movie type of story.
Taking place in a small town three sisters are trying to get back to the way things were before they all went their separate ways.Family drama and a slow burn romance thrown in as well.
We can't forget the sweet grandma who is my favorite character in the book.
Each of the three stories focuses on of the sisters.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Taking place in a small town three sisters are trying to get back to the way things were before they all went their separate ways.Family drama and a slow burn romance thrown in as well.
We can't forget the sweet grandma who is my favorite character in the book.
Each of the three stories focuses on of the sisters.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
February 5, 2022
Optimistic, warm, and sweet!
The Marvelous Monroe Girls is a winsome, compelling tale that takes us to the small town of Harbor Cove and into the life of the unsettled, troubled Gabriella Monroe as she meanders through all sorts of highs and lows from struggling to keep her vintage dress shop open and solvent, recovering from a disastrous love affair that shattered her self esteem, working on the strained relationships she seems to have with her sisters, secretly trying to help those in the community in order to raise her grandmother’s spirits, and navigating the new blossoming feelings she’s having for her handsome, best friend, Jake.
The writing is smooth and polished. The characterization is spot on with a whole slew of characters that are genuine, multi-layered and intriguing. And the plot unravels and intertwines effortlessly into a tender tale about life, love, loss, family, secrets, friendship, grief, sisterhood, romance, and finding happiness.
Overall, The Marvelous Monroe Girls is an uplifting, quaint, entertaining tale by Jump that is the first novel I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last. It’s a wonderful start for this new Harbor Cove series with its well-developed characters and refreshing storyline, and I can’t wait to read what will happen next.
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls is a winsome, compelling tale that takes us to the small town of Harbor Cove and into the life of the unsettled, troubled Gabriella Monroe as she meanders through all sorts of highs and lows from struggling to keep her vintage dress shop open and solvent, recovering from a disastrous love affair that shattered her self esteem, working on the strained relationships she seems to have with her sisters, secretly trying to help those in the community in order to raise her grandmother’s spirits, and navigating the new blossoming feelings she’s having for her handsome, best friend, Jake.
The writing is smooth and polished. The characterization is spot on with a whole slew of characters that are genuine, multi-layered and intriguing. And the plot unravels and intertwines effortlessly into a tender tale about life, love, loss, family, secrets, friendship, grief, sisterhood, romance, and finding happiness.
Overall, The Marvelous Monroe Girls is an uplifting, quaint, entertaining tale by Jump that is the first novel I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last. It’s a wonderful start for this new Harbor Cove series with its well-developed characters and refreshing storyline, and I can’t wait to read what will happen next.
Thank you to Forever and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2021
This is only my 2nd book by Shirley Jump and the last one I read of hers was in 2018. Why oh why did I wait so long? I loved that book and this one was very good also. It’s like a good hallmark movie and a feel good book all around. I really loved Gabby and Jake! Looking forward to the next part of this series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
January 4, 2022
This is the first in a series about three sisters. This one focuses on Gabby. It took me over half of the book to finally like Gabby. She’s sweet, but took entirely too much responsibility for others on herself. I found myself exasperated at her most of the time. She also tended to run away from issues, like with her father. I thought that was rather childish. It was a very slow build toward the romance with Jake. I liked Grandma Ellie the best. Despite my issues with the main character, it’s still a good read. Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the early read.
December 30, 2021
I loved the sister dynamics in this book! They were authentic and the character development was awesome. The grandma was the standout for me in this one, as she reminded me so much of my grandma. The romances were adorable. This was feel good and full of fun shenanigans! 3.5 ⭐️
November 21, 2021
Read this if you:
*have sisters
*are close with your grandparents
*live in a small town
*love Hallmark movies
This book was so incredibly cute. It was heartwarming & charming & just overall a fun read.
Thank you NetGalley & Forever publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Pub date: Jan 11
*have sisters
*are close with your grandparents
*live in a small town
*love Hallmark movies
This book was so incredibly cute. It was heartwarming & charming & just overall a fun read.
Thank you NetGalley & Forever publishing for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Pub date: Jan 11
January 6, 2022
Received this book as an ARC through the forever publishing influencer program. Really enjoyed this one! It was so cute. The characters made me smile and I loved how one grandmother could bring so many people together. I also enjoyed the boy next door vibes! My kind of book. Absolutely loved the ending. Book was a little slow at times, but it had perfect timing at the end. Overall, great book!
January 11, 2022
I found The Marvelous Monroe Girls to be entertaining, easy to read and with likeable characters. While the book includes all three Monroe sisters and their Grandmother, the book focuses primarily on Gabby which leads me to believe this is the first book in a series. The book is set in the charming town of Harbor Cove.
The sisters lost their mother in a tragic accident as young girls and were thereafter raised by their Grandmother. Their father was deep in grief and moved on to another relationship and family shortly after this tragedy. Gabby blames herself for her mother’s accident and has made a promise to her mother to watch over the rest of the family. Everything Gabby does involving her family centres around this promise.
This is a story of family love and romantic relationships. Gabby is finding it more and more challenging to resist her “more than friends” feelings for Jake. With her mother’s tragic death in mind, she does not believe in a happy ever after. She’s afraid to risk the lifelong friendship she’s had with Jake in the event of it becoming a romantic relationship going wrong.
Margaret is Gabby’s married older sister. She has not been attending the weekly family dinners for quite some time. The family is concerned that there is something wrong but Margaret isn’t open to talking about it. Emma is the youngest of the sisters, loves to travel and has no interest in romance. She also seems to be the focus of the next book in the series.
What I Liked:
The friends to lovers trope involving Gabby and Jake
The small-town vibe of Harbor Cove
The role that the Grandmother has played in the girl’s lives.
The sisters lost their mother in a tragic accident as young girls and were thereafter raised by their Grandmother. Their father was deep in grief and moved on to another relationship and family shortly after this tragedy. Gabby blames herself for her mother’s accident and has made a promise to her mother to watch over the rest of the family. Everything Gabby does involving her family centres around this promise.
This is a story of family love and romantic relationships. Gabby is finding it more and more challenging to resist her “more than friends” feelings for Jake. With her mother’s tragic death in mind, she does not believe in a happy ever after. She’s afraid to risk the lifelong friendship she’s had with Jake in the event of it becoming a romantic relationship going wrong.
Margaret is Gabby’s married older sister. She has not been attending the weekly family dinners for quite some time. The family is concerned that there is something wrong but Margaret isn’t open to talking about it. Emma is the youngest of the sisters, loves to travel and has no interest in romance. She also seems to be the focus of the next book in the series.
What I Liked:
The friends to lovers trope involving Gabby and Jake
The small-town vibe of Harbor Cove
The role that the Grandmother has played in the girl’s lives.
September 21, 2021
The Marvelous Monroe Girls - Shirley Jump
As the three sisters are hunting for their mothers wedding dress in the attic, they stumble across a box of letters that gives them a bit of insight into who their grandmother really is. Together they decide to use this as a way to get their grandmother out of her funk, and as for Gabby, it's a way to ignore her own life that seems to be crumbling around her.
Some things however cannot be ignored. As she ropes her childhood best friend, Jake, into her plans, she is then forced to face her true feelings for Jake as he lays his out for her. Can Gabby let go of the past so she can move forward?
I came across this book on Netgalley, and I must admit, the cover caught my eye and had me sold. It's unfortunate that summer has ended, because this would be a perfect beach read. The book was easy read, that while seems a tad slow at times, pulled through towards the end. I definitely recommend this book if you're in the mood for a romcom!
⭐⭐⭐⭐/4
Thank you so much Netgalley for the ARC!
As the three sisters are hunting for their mothers wedding dress in the attic, they stumble across a box of letters that gives them a bit of insight into who their grandmother really is. Together they decide to use this as a way to get their grandmother out of her funk, and as for Gabby, it's a way to ignore her own life that seems to be crumbling around her.
Some things however cannot be ignored. As she ropes her childhood best friend, Jake, into her plans, she is then forced to face her true feelings for Jake as he lays his out for her. Can Gabby let go of the past so she can move forward?
I came across this book on Netgalley, and I must admit, the cover caught my eye and had me sold. It's unfortunate that summer has ended, because this would be a perfect beach read. The book was easy read, that while seems a tad slow at times, pulled through towards the end. I definitely recommend this book if you're in the mood for a romcom!
⭐⭐⭐⭐/4
Thank you so much Netgalley for the ARC!
October 26, 2021
A good story of you make it through. It moved too slowly for me but each character was well defined
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
January 12, 2022
✨PUB DAY FEATURE✨
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump
Gabby Monroe has felt responsible for taking care of her family since her mom passed away unexpectedly. That feels like a tall order these days as she notices her beloved Grandma having more sad days, her older sister Margaret distancing herself from the family, and her younger sister Emma becoming even more restless than usual. Oh, and Gabby herself has her small business to worry about. And, what about those feelings she is suddenly having for her childhood best friend Jake?!
What a delightful and uplifting story that Shirley Jump has gifted us with. A true piece of Southern Fiction transplanted into the suburbs of Massachusetts, this story stole my heart. If you love Southern Fiction, it has a bit of everything; a will they/won't they romance, a lovable and sweet Grandma to take care of, and tons of family drama.
Pick this up if you've watched Sweet Magnolias on Netflix or if you just need a sweet, good natured read.
Thanks to @netgalley and @readforeverpub for the eARC!
#pubday #earc #netgalley #themarvelousmonroegirls #fiction #southernfiction #bookstagrammer #pubdayreview #bookstagram #readersofig #readersofinstagram
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump
Gabby Monroe has felt responsible for taking care of her family since her mom passed away unexpectedly. That feels like a tall order these days as she notices her beloved Grandma having more sad days, her older sister Margaret distancing herself from the family, and her younger sister Emma becoming even more restless than usual. Oh, and Gabby herself has her small business to worry about. And, what about those feelings she is suddenly having for her childhood best friend Jake?!
What a delightful and uplifting story that Shirley Jump has gifted us with. A true piece of Southern Fiction transplanted into the suburbs of Massachusetts, this story stole my heart. If you love Southern Fiction, it has a bit of everything; a will they/won't they romance, a lovable and sweet Grandma to take care of, and tons of family drama.
Pick this up if you've watched Sweet Magnolias on Netflix or if you just need a sweet, good natured read.
Thanks to @netgalley and @readforeverpub for the eARC!
#pubday #earc #netgalley #themarvelousmonroegirls #fiction #southernfiction #bookstagrammer #pubdayreview #bookstagram #readersofig #readersofinstagram
January 1, 2022
Thank you to Forever for providing me with a copy in advance in exchange for my review.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls is the first in a series following a different Monroe sister. This book follows Gabriella Monroe. She owns a vintage dress store in her small Massachusetts town that's in financial hardships. While she's in her grandmother's attic to locate her mother's wedding dress she comes across some newspaper clippings to Dear Amelia and believes her grandmother is the local advice columnist. With the help of her best friend, Jake, she sets out to see if her grandmother is Amelia and hopes to turn around the shop to make it the shop of her dreams.
This novel is part fiction and part romance. It definitely sets up future books with Margaret and Emma, the other Monroe sisters. You also get a snippet of their grandmother's life too which I imagine will play out in future novels as well. I wanted a bit more drama in the story, but that's just my own personal taste. This novel is something that can be easily read in a day. I don't think the story or characters will stick with me long; however, and I don't know if I'll be picking up any future books. It was fine to pass the time but will just be forgettable.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls is the first in a series following a different Monroe sister. This book follows Gabriella Monroe. She owns a vintage dress store in her small Massachusetts town that's in financial hardships. While she's in her grandmother's attic to locate her mother's wedding dress she comes across some newspaper clippings to Dear Amelia and believes her grandmother is the local advice columnist. With the help of her best friend, Jake, she sets out to see if her grandmother is Amelia and hopes to turn around the shop to make it the shop of her dreams.
This novel is part fiction and part romance. It definitely sets up future books with Margaret and Emma, the other Monroe sisters. You also get a snippet of their grandmother's life too which I imagine will play out in future novels as well. I wanted a bit more drama in the story, but that's just my own personal taste. This novel is something that can be easily read in a day. I don't think the story or characters will stick with me long; however, and I don't know if I'll be picking up any future books. It was fine to pass the time but will just be forgettable.
January 13, 2022
https://www.howdidthatbookend.com/shi...
Thank you to Forever for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
The first in a new series, The Marvelous Monroe Girls follows Gabby as she struggles to keep her family together, manage her small business, and figure out her love life. If you liked Sara Richardson’s Juniper Springs series, you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this one too!
Jake was by far my favorite character, seconded by Eleanor. I appreciate Jake’s determination to follow his own dreams, despite his father trying to hold him back. I enjoyed the storyline between Jake, his cousin, and his father, but I do wish it felt more resolved. His love for Gabby was so genuine; I was rooting for him right from the beginning. Friends to lovers is my favorite trope, so I loved learning about Jake and Gabby’s backstory as childhood friends.
I don’t know how these characters found time to sleep! Gabby had a ton on her plate as mentioned, but Jake did as well. He was practically working three jobs, one of which was his own startup, as well as helping Gabby and her grandmother with various chores.
Although I don’t believe a season is mentioned, I’d recommend this as a summer beach read. The Marvelous Monroe Girls tries to tackle a lot of different themes, and in doing so doesn’t go much into depth about any of them. Themes of family, grief, friendship, honesty, and love are all hinted at, but most of the conflicts are either resolved effortlessly or swept under the rug.
This series will be a must-read for fans of Sara Richardson, Jill Shalvis, and Jenny Hale. I can’t wait to read Margaret and Emma’s stories!
Thank you to Forever for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
The first in a new series, The Marvelous Monroe Girls follows Gabby as she struggles to keep her family together, manage her small business, and figure out her love life. If you liked Sara Richardson’s Juniper Springs series, you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this one too!
Jake was by far my favorite character, seconded by Eleanor. I appreciate Jake’s determination to follow his own dreams, despite his father trying to hold him back. I enjoyed the storyline between Jake, his cousin, and his father, but I do wish it felt more resolved. His love for Gabby was so genuine; I was rooting for him right from the beginning. Friends to lovers is my favorite trope, so I loved learning about Jake and Gabby’s backstory as childhood friends.
I don’t know how these characters found time to sleep! Gabby had a ton on her plate as mentioned, but Jake did as well. He was practically working three jobs, one of which was his own startup, as well as helping Gabby and her grandmother with various chores.
Although I don’t believe a season is mentioned, I’d recommend this as a summer beach read. The Marvelous Monroe Girls tries to tackle a lot of different themes, and in doing so doesn’t go much into depth about any of them. Themes of family, grief, friendship, honesty, and love are all hinted at, but most of the conflicts are either resolved effortlessly or swept under the rug.
This series will be a must-read for fans of Sara Richardson, Jill Shalvis, and Jenny Hale. I can’t wait to read Margaret and Emma’s stories!
January 7, 2022
Thank you readforeverpub pub and grandcentral pub for sending me gifted copy of The Marvelous Monroe Girls by @shirleyjump
This book was a delight to read and I devoured it in a day!
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the three sisters and so many of their instances reminded me of my relationship with my little sister and out close knit family ties! The romance was super sweet!
Isn’t it true in some sense were every one of us is more or less like Gabrielle Monroe and pretending that everything in our life is great while we are all under some or other type of stress!
This book is full of love, friendship, second chances and above all, could be a perfect hallmark movie! Grab yourself a copy when it hits the shelves on Jan 11, 2022!
This book was a delight to read and I devoured it in a day!
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the three sisters and so many of their instances reminded me of my relationship with my little sister and out close knit family ties! The romance was super sweet!
Isn’t it true in some sense were every one of us is more or less like Gabrielle Monroe and pretending that everything in our life is great while we are all under some or other type of stress!
This book is full of love, friendship, second chances and above all, could be a perfect hallmark movie! Grab yourself a copy when it hits the shelves on Jan 11, 2022!
January 8, 2022
Book Review
The Marvellous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump
Thank you to @readforever and @grandcentralpub for my book in return for an honest review
This happily ever after was a sweet quick read. Perfect for jammie days in these cold winter months.
Boy next door Jake is swoon worthy
Margaret is the typical older sister- opinionated. Stubborn.
Emma is the baby of the family, the free spirit.
Grandma is a little lost, lonely and depressed as her chicks have flown the nest and she doesnt know where her path goes next
And Gabby- well she is a people pleaser. She is a nurturer. She continues to put her desires and dreams on the backburner to take care of everyone else. In her head, her own “happy” can wait.
The Marvellous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump
Thank you to @readforever and @grandcentralpub for my book in return for an honest review
This happily ever after was a sweet quick read. Perfect for jammie days in these cold winter months.
Boy next door Jake is swoon worthy
Margaret is the typical older sister- opinionated. Stubborn.
Emma is the baby of the family, the free spirit.
Grandma is a little lost, lonely and depressed as her chicks have flown the nest and she doesnt know where her path goes next
And Gabby- well she is a people pleaser. She is a nurturer. She continues to put her desires and dreams on the backburner to take care of everyone else. In her head, her own “happy” can wait.
April 6, 2022
#FirstLine ~ The best memories from Gabby Monroe's childhood were sprinkled with chocolate chip cookie crumbs.
This book was the sweetest ever. I love that this is part of a new series, so I can continue on with the characters. I adore romances that also have strong characters, an interesting plot and a pacing that keeps me engaged. This story has all that and more. With a heartwarming story and a grate setting, all the elements come together in a very satisfying way. I really enjoyed this book!
This book was the sweetest ever. I love that this is part of a new series, so I can continue on with the characters. I adore romances that also have strong characters, an interesting plot and a pacing that keeps me engaged. This story has all that and more. With a heartwarming story and a grate setting, all the elements come together in a very satisfying way. I really enjoyed this book!
January 8, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Forever for the chance to read an advanced copy of The marvelous Monroe girls by Shirley Jump. This was a sweet, chick lit romance that would be a perfect beach read. While we were introduced to the 3 Monroe sisters this story centered on Gabby and her forever friendship with Jake. I enjoyed the story, but was confused because it seemed the book was supposed to be about the three sisters. I assume there will be two more books later.
January 16, 2022
3.5 stars! Very cute and felt like a hallmark movie!
June 5, 2022
This book was...fine.... It took me a while to work my way through it. The plot is pretty slow and predictable, but if that's your thing you may enjoy it more than I did.
September 20, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC, because I was so excited for this book! The cover drew me in, and the story didn’t disappoint. It was a story of love, loss, handling grief, family bonds and relationships, and making changes. It is a perfect beach read (or now that winter is coming, a perfect read curled up on the couch while it snows!). I felt like it was similar to some TJR novels. My only issue with it is that I felt like Jakes responses got a little old. I know we were supposed to see how much he really loved Gabby, but it got a little repetitive reading over and over every sentence when he was having a conversation with her. Other than that, I really enjoyed the story and getting a glimpse into the characters lives.
September 20, 2021
Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!
This seemed like a fun quick summer read. I would have enjoyed reading this next to a nice body of water with the sun shining above. We follow the three Monroe sisters and their grandmother aka the lady who helped raise them. We watch as one sibling feels the need to keep the family together after her mother unexpectedly passed away. We watch Gabrielle struggle to bring the family together, all while reconnecting with her childhood bff Jake. We watch them navigate jumping from best friends to dating. Gabby tries her best in all that she does, whether it is uniting her family, helping their small town by setting up a historical event to help showcase their specialties. She does it all.
This seemed like a fun quick summer read. I would have enjoyed reading this next to a nice body of water with the sun shining above. We follow the three Monroe sisters and their grandmother aka the lady who helped raise them. We watch as one sibling feels the need to keep the family together after her mother unexpectedly passed away. We watch Gabrielle struggle to bring the family together, all while reconnecting with her childhood bff Jake. We watch them navigate jumping from best friends to dating. Gabby tries her best in all that she does, whether it is uniting her family, helping their small town by setting up a historical event to help showcase their specialties. She does it all.
January 3, 2022
I received an eARC of this book via NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
I adored this one! The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is a sweet contemporary romance that is as much about the romance as it is about family. Raised by their grandmother, the Monroe sisters – Margaret, Gabby, and Emma – were once a close knit unit. Now they’ve grown apart, concerned with their own adult problems and spending less and less time together. When Gabby notices that their grandmother is a little depressed, she takes it as a sign to get the sisters together and fix the problem. During an attic clean out, Gabby and her sisters discover a folder full of “Dear Abigail” letters and newspaper clippings which lead the girls to discover a whole new side to their grandmother.
This one centers mostly on Gabby, the middle sister. She has spent most of her life living up to a promise she made to her mother’s grave to keep her sisters together and happy. She’s devoted her life to making sure that everyone else is happy, never really focusing on her own happiness. With the discovery about her grandmother, Gabby hatches a plan with her younger sister Emma and best friend Jake to make her happy again. I like Gabby. She has all these good intentions that blow up in her face. Yet she finds a way to make them still work and also grows from them.
Jake is a sweet heart. I love that the author chose to include his point of view for some of the chapters. It is clear from his first introduction that he is madly in love with Gabby. They grew up together, have always been friends, and he is comfortable in that relationship. Seeing Gabby’s grandmother depressed and just not herself however wakes something up in Jake. Does he want to live his life in comfort or does he want to take a risk and live the life he dreams of having? You can guess which he chooses, and y’all I couldn’t be happier with that choice.
In addition to the potential romance, Gabby faces family issues head on. Her elder sister has grown distant and closed off. Emma is flighty and runs from relationships at every opportunity. Then there is their father who was absent after they lost their mother. His absence has left a whole in the Monroe family that could never be filled. Losing their mother so young has affected all the sisters in different ways. Gabby has internalized it and feels responsible for her death. This weighs heavy on her even nearly twenty years later. Add to the fact that their father who she was closest to has moved on with his life, Gabby is angry and mistrusting. It doesn’t help that Jake’s cousin broke her heart a year earlier either.
Overall I really enjoyed The Marvelous Monroe Girls. I found myself cheering them on. I loved the family element in this story. I liked seeing the sisters’ relationship and their relationship with their grandmother. She is the glue of this family element. And then there is Jake. The romance is main plot, and I just fell immediately. Best friends to lovers is my trope, and Jump pulls it off masterfully here. If you are looking for a sweet spring romance, I highly recommend it.
I adored this one! The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is a sweet contemporary romance that is as much about the romance as it is about family. Raised by their grandmother, the Monroe sisters – Margaret, Gabby, and Emma – were once a close knit unit. Now they’ve grown apart, concerned with their own adult problems and spending less and less time together. When Gabby notices that their grandmother is a little depressed, she takes it as a sign to get the sisters together and fix the problem. During an attic clean out, Gabby and her sisters discover a folder full of “Dear Abigail” letters and newspaper clippings which lead the girls to discover a whole new side to their grandmother.
This one centers mostly on Gabby, the middle sister. She has spent most of her life living up to a promise she made to her mother’s grave to keep her sisters together and happy. She’s devoted her life to making sure that everyone else is happy, never really focusing on her own happiness. With the discovery about her grandmother, Gabby hatches a plan with her younger sister Emma and best friend Jake to make her happy again. I like Gabby. She has all these good intentions that blow up in her face. Yet she finds a way to make them still work and also grows from them.
Jake is a sweet heart. I love that the author chose to include his point of view for some of the chapters. It is clear from his first introduction that he is madly in love with Gabby. They grew up together, have always been friends, and he is comfortable in that relationship. Seeing Gabby’s grandmother depressed and just not herself however wakes something up in Jake. Does he want to live his life in comfort or does he want to take a risk and live the life he dreams of having? You can guess which he chooses, and y’all I couldn’t be happier with that choice.
In addition to the potential romance, Gabby faces family issues head on. Her elder sister has grown distant and closed off. Emma is flighty and runs from relationships at every opportunity. Then there is their father who was absent after they lost their mother. His absence has left a whole in the Monroe family that could never be filled. Losing their mother so young has affected all the sisters in different ways. Gabby has internalized it and feels responsible for her death. This weighs heavy on her even nearly twenty years later. Add to the fact that their father who she was closest to has moved on with his life, Gabby is angry and mistrusting. It doesn’t help that Jake’s cousin broke her heart a year earlier either.
Overall I really enjoyed The Marvelous Monroe Girls. I found myself cheering them on. I loved the family element in this story. I liked seeing the sisters’ relationship and their relationship with their grandmother. She is the glue of this family element. And then there is Jake. The romance is main plot, and I just fell immediately. Best friends to lovers is my trope, and Jump pulls it off masterfully here. If you are looking for a sweet spring romance, I highly recommend it.
January 5, 2022
Thank you so much to @readforeverpub @foreverpub @hachetteus for my copy of The Marvelous Monroe Girls, I enjoyed this book so very much! Small town cozy feels, sisterhood, family, long time love, taking chances, finding our place in the world, taking chances, all these points bundled up in a fast paced read that had me loving each and every character. Three sisters Gabriella, Margaret, and Emma are the center of the story alongside their beloved grandmother who raised them since their mother died very young. Gabriella is struggling with her vintage dress shop business, her relationships with her sisters, her estranged father and her best friend growing up Jake Maddox.
This story really was such a pleasure to read as the author did a wonderful job of developing each character that I just adored. It brings to light the questions most of us struggle with, like how to find our place in the world, what really is important to us, how to make ourselves happy when we care so much for others in our circle. This was my first read by author Shirley Jump. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and am grateful to the Forever team for sending this book my way.
Gabriella Monroe is doing her best to pretend that everything is fine, but her life is a mess. Sales are down at her vintage dress shop, her beloved grandmother isn’t her usual spunky self, and Gabby desperately misses the closeness she had with her sisters, Margaret and Emma—who were once so inseparable that their family called them the Monroe Musketeers.
When the sisters stumble across a stash of letters that reveals their grandmother’s secret life, Gabby sees an opportunity to bring the sisters back together again and best of all, raise her grandmother’s spirits. And sure, this new project makes it easier to pretend her own life isn’t crashing around her, but concentrating on helping everyone else and ignoring her own feelings is what Gabby does best.
Except when it comes to Jake Maddox. Once the boy next door she crushed on—hard—he’s grown into an even more intriguing man, and her attraction to him isn’t so easy to hide. It’s clear he’s just as interested in her, but dating Jake would only muddy up her already complicated life. Or is it finally time to put herself first and risk it all for a chance at happiness?
This story really was such a pleasure to read as the author did a wonderful job of developing each character that I just adored. It brings to light the questions most of us struggle with, like how to find our place in the world, what really is important to us, how to make ourselves happy when we care so much for others in our circle. This was my first read by author Shirley Jump. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and am grateful to the Forever team for sending this book my way.
Gabriella Monroe is doing her best to pretend that everything is fine, but her life is a mess. Sales are down at her vintage dress shop, her beloved grandmother isn’t her usual spunky self, and Gabby desperately misses the closeness she had with her sisters, Margaret and Emma—who were once so inseparable that their family called them the Monroe Musketeers.
When the sisters stumble across a stash of letters that reveals their grandmother’s secret life, Gabby sees an opportunity to bring the sisters back together again and best of all, raise her grandmother’s spirits. And sure, this new project makes it easier to pretend her own life isn’t crashing around her, but concentrating on helping everyone else and ignoring her own feelings is what Gabby does best.
Except when it comes to Jake Maddox. Once the boy next door she crushed on—hard—he’s grown into an even more intriguing man, and her attraction to him isn’t so easy to hide. It’s clear he’s just as interested in her, but dating Jake would only muddy up her already complicated life. Or is it finally time to put herself first and risk it all for a chance at happiness?
January 4, 2022
The Marvelous Monroe Sisters
Shirley Jump
January 11, 2022
In Harbor Cove, Massachusetts we find the Monroe sisters living near their Grandmother Eleanor, finished with college and trying to settle into careers. Only Margaret has found and married Michael. She is the eldest. She runs an artists jewelry shop in town. She spends too much time working on websites, accounting and trying to keep her store open. Gabby is the middle sister, still struggling over guilt stresses when her mother, Peggy passed in a car accident when the girls were young. She has opened a Vintage Clothing Store on the square. Emma is the youngest and the go-getter. She is a wedding planner for a local hotel. Aside from work , she is active in yoga and anything else that attracts her attention.
After their mother’s death, their father, Davis became unglued. Eleanor brought the girls to her house. He tried hard to pull his life together but worked too hard and could not bring himself to come back to the house without Peggy.
Gabby’s best friend Jake, who lived down the street ,was her faithful friend since first grade. He is a lawyer but working in his father’s firm was just not what he wanted to do. He loved photography and graphic design. He went to work for the local paper developing ads. The pay was much lower but he was happy at what he accomplished.
This unique, wonderfully written book from Shirley Jump gives us a profile of this family’s life including the best and the toughest parts of growing up. It is very pleasant to read however she doesn't skimp on the trials of her characters. The Marvelous Monroe Sisters will be published on January 11, 2022 by the Hachette Book Group. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this delightful book. I encourage readers looking for a terrific family narrative. Enjoy this one!
Shirley Jump
January 11, 2022
In Harbor Cove, Massachusetts we find the Monroe sisters living near their Grandmother Eleanor, finished with college and trying to settle into careers. Only Margaret has found and married Michael. She is the eldest. She runs an artists jewelry shop in town. She spends too much time working on websites, accounting and trying to keep her store open. Gabby is the middle sister, still struggling over guilt stresses when her mother, Peggy passed in a car accident when the girls were young. She has opened a Vintage Clothing Store on the square. Emma is the youngest and the go-getter. She is a wedding planner for a local hotel. Aside from work , she is active in yoga and anything else that attracts her attention.
After their mother’s death, their father, Davis became unglued. Eleanor brought the girls to her house. He tried hard to pull his life together but worked too hard and could not bring himself to come back to the house without Peggy.
Gabby’s best friend Jake, who lived down the street ,was her faithful friend since first grade. He is a lawyer but working in his father’s firm was just not what he wanted to do. He loved photography and graphic design. He went to work for the local paper developing ads. The pay was much lower but he was happy at what he accomplished.
This unique, wonderfully written book from Shirley Jump gives us a profile of this family’s life including the best and the toughest parts of growing up. It is very pleasant to read however she doesn't skimp on the trials of her characters. The Marvelous Monroe Sisters will be published on January 11, 2022 by the Hachette Book Group. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this delightful book. I encourage readers looking for a terrific family narrative. Enjoy this one!
December 24, 2021
The Marvelous Monroe Girls is a story about family, friendship, and love. Gabby, Emma, and Margaret lost their mom at a young age and their grandma Eleanor raised them. Although the girls were close when they were young, now Gabby thinks they’re growing apart and she feels the need to pull them all back together so she can keep the promise she made to their mother.
Honestly, at first I thought the first 2 chapters were kind of slow. They didn’t really grab my attention with the back story and Gabby’s efforts to bring their sisters back together. But then there was Jake, the handsome neighbor who also happens to be Gabby’s best friend, and the story picked up the pace.
Boy, am I glad I kept reading! Jake is the most honest man friend anyone could have and I cheered for him all along as he talked himself into why he needed to let his feelings for Gabby be known. Now, Gabby, on the other hand, was a pain. She was unsecured, always minding everyone else’s business but her own. Then her reasoning for not wanting to cross the line and give herself a chance at a relationship with Jake was just dumb. She was so busy trying to fix everyone else’s life that she thought hers was perfect just the way it was. Worst of all, she wouldn’t listen. People tried to communicate with her, but she was so set in what she thought she heard and saw, that she wouldn’t stop seeing red when things were actually blue. IMHO she was annoying.
Jake saved the story for me. He threw caution to the wind and went for what made him happy. I just loved him!
Overall, it turned out to be a great story but only because of Jake and Eleanor.
Honestly, at first I thought the first 2 chapters were kind of slow. They didn’t really grab my attention with the back story and Gabby’s efforts to bring their sisters back together. But then there was Jake, the handsome neighbor who also happens to be Gabby’s best friend, and the story picked up the pace.
Boy, am I glad I kept reading! Jake is the most honest man friend anyone could have and I cheered for him all along as he talked himself into why he needed to let his feelings for Gabby be known. Now, Gabby, on the other hand, was a pain. She was unsecured, always minding everyone else’s business but her own. Then her reasoning for not wanting to cross the line and give herself a chance at a relationship with Jake was just dumb. She was so busy trying to fix everyone else’s life that she thought hers was perfect just the way it was. Worst of all, she wouldn’t listen. People tried to communicate with her, but she was so set in what she thought she heard and saw, that she wouldn’t stop seeing red when things were actually blue. IMHO she was annoying.
Jake saved the story for me. He threw caution to the wind and went for what made him happy. I just loved him!
Overall, it turned out to be a great story but only because of Jake and Eleanor.
May 21, 2023
This was a lovely, easy read – it would be perfect for summer.
Gabrielle, Margaret, and Emma are since. Having grown up with their grandmother after the tragic death of their beloved mother, the girls have grown more distant. Inevitably, now they have grown up and have businesses and relationships, and they have less time for each other.
This book focuses on Gabby. She has opened a vintage dress shop in the town she grew up in. But her business is struggling as footfall is down. She becomes involved in a project to promote the town and celebrate its history. While she is searching for her mother’s vintage wedding dress, she finds letters a stash of letters that lead her to believe that her grandma has a secret life.
She is also wrestling with her feelings towards Jake. They have known each other since childhood, and Gabby has always had a crush on him. Bit she ended up dating his cousin, who broke her heart and dumped her via text. Taking a chance on Jake could damage their friendship.
This is a lovely, warm-hearted, small-town read. Gabby and her sisters are part of a wider community, and lots of characters are introduced. This is the first in a series, so imagine that each book will focus on a different sister. Both Emma and Margaret have stories of their own bubbling in the background.
As much time is taken developing the male characters, which is great. Jake isn’t just a passive love interest. His story is interesting and allows the reader to invest in his relationship with Gabby.
The cover of this book is simply gorgeous and partly what drew me to it when I saw it being shared on Instagram. A lovely read.
Gabrielle, Margaret, and Emma are since. Having grown up with their grandmother after the tragic death of their beloved mother, the girls have grown more distant. Inevitably, now they have grown up and have businesses and relationships, and they have less time for each other.
This book focuses on Gabby. She has opened a vintage dress shop in the town she grew up in. But her business is struggling as footfall is down. She becomes involved in a project to promote the town and celebrate its history. While she is searching for her mother’s vintage wedding dress, she finds letters a stash of letters that lead her to believe that her grandma has a secret life.
She is also wrestling with her feelings towards Jake. They have known each other since childhood, and Gabby has always had a crush on him. Bit she ended up dating his cousin, who broke her heart and dumped her via text. Taking a chance on Jake could damage their friendship.
This is a lovely, warm-hearted, small-town read. Gabby and her sisters are part of a wider community, and lots of characters are introduced. This is the first in a series, so imagine that each book will focus on a different sister. Both Emma and Margaret have stories of their own bubbling in the background.
As much time is taken developing the male characters, which is great. Jake isn’t just a passive love interest. His story is interesting and allows the reader to invest in his relationship with Gabby.
The cover of this book is simply gorgeous and partly what drew me to it when I saw it being shared on Instagram. A lovely read.
October 4, 2021
Four and a half stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is a lovey heartfelt book about family, love, and relationships. I enjoyed this book so much and loved the characters.
Gabby, Margaret, and Emma are sisters who were once inseparable and are now drifting apart in adulthood. When they gather to look for their grandmother’s wedding dress to display in Gabby’s vintage clothes shop, they find a stash of their grandmother’s letters that helps to explain their grandmother. When they try to help their Grandmother, they also find themselves working together to help her, and they grow closer as they find out more about each other.
When Gabby runs into her old friend Jake, her feelings for him grow and he seems as interested in her also. But Gabby has big problems with the vintage dress store and needs more help than she’s willing to ask for and she’s not ready to add a relationship to her already complicated life.
I always enjoy books about sisters and The Marvelous Monroe Girls did not disappoint. The author does a great job with the complex relationship between these three sisters and I found those relationships realistic and relatable. The story is well-paced and we’re able to get a good understanding of each of these sisters’ lives and motivations.
I highly recommend The Marvelous Monroe Girls to anyone who loves a book about complex sisterly relationships. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Marvelous Monroe Girls by Shirley Jump is a lovey heartfelt book about family, love, and relationships. I enjoyed this book so much and loved the characters.
Gabby, Margaret, and Emma are sisters who were once inseparable and are now drifting apart in adulthood. When they gather to look for their grandmother’s wedding dress to display in Gabby’s vintage clothes shop, they find a stash of their grandmother’s letters that helps to explain their grandmother. When they try to help their Grandmother, they also find themselves working together to help her, and they grow closer as they find out more about each other.
When Gabby runs into her old friend Jake, her feelings for him grow and he seems as interested in her also. But Gabby has big problems with the vintage dress store and needs more help than she’s willing to ask for and she’s not ready to add a relationship to her already complicated life.
I always enjoy books about sisters and The Marvelous Monroe Girls did not disappoint. The author does a great job with the complex relationship between these three sisters and I found those relationships realistic and relatable. The story is well-paced and we’re able to get a good understanding of each of these sisters’ lives and motivations.
I highly recommend The Marvelous Monroe Girls to anyone who loves a book about complex sisterly relationships. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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