Mermaid Beach: the perfect beach read

Moonlight Harbor #7

by Sheila Roberts

“Roberts proves again why she is the premier purveyor of small-town, feel-good romance.” — Booklist

USA TODAY bestselling author Sheila Roberts takes readers back to Moonlight Harbor with a story of music, hopes, dreams and family, brimming with Sheila’s trademark humor and heart.

Bonnie Brinks and her all-woman band, The Mermaids, are the pride of Moonlight Harbor. They’re the house band at The Drunken Sailor, and that’s just the right amount of fame for Bonnie. A lifetime ago, she went to Nashville to make it big, but she returned home with a broken heart and broken dreams. Now she’s got a comfortable life and a brilliant daughter, Avril, who plays for The Mermaids alongside Bonnie and Bonnie’s mother, Loretta.

Avril has big dreams of her own. Her life in Moonlight Harbor is good—she loves singing and playing guitar with The Mermaids, and she has the sweetest, most loyal boyfriend a girl could ask for—but it all feels so…small. She can’t help wondering if there’s something more out there for her. And she doesn’t understand why her mom won’t support her going to Nashville to find out.

Meanwhile, Bonnie threw in the towel on her love life long ago, but Loretta sure hasn’t. She’s determined to be swept off her feet, and she wants the same for her daughter. When the hunky new owner of The Drunken Sailor turns the tables on the band and Avril announces she’s leaving Moonlight Harbor, Bonnie’s comfortable life seems to be drifting away. Will these three generations of Mermaids find their happy endings on the Washington coast? Or will the change in the winds leave them all shipwrecked?

A Moonlight Harbor Novel

Book 1: Welcome to Moonlight Harbor
Book 2: Winter at the Beach
Book 3: The Summer Retreat
Book 4: Beachside Beginnings
Book 5: Sunset on Moonlight Beach
Book 6: Sand Dollar Lane
Book 7: Mermaid Beach
Book 8: The Best Life Book Club

Genres: Romance, Womens Fiction, Fiction, Summer Reads, Chick Lit, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

352 pages, Hardcover

First published April 25, 2023

About the author

With fifty books to her credit, both fiction and non-fiction, Sheila Roberts is a frequent USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller - and a fan favorite. Her books have sold over three million copies and have been turned into movies for the Hallmark, Lifetime and Great American Family channels. Before settling into her writing career, Sheila owned a singing telegram company and played in band. When she's not traveling, Sheila can be found hanging out with friends, playing tennis, and, of course, writing and reading. Sometimes she even remembers to post books she's read!

Reviews

[Kim ~ It’s All About the Thrill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you @uplitreads for having me along on this book tour!!! Thank you @harlequinbooks @_mira_books_ for my gorgeous gifted copy. 🧜‍♀️

Welcome to Moonlight Harbor… this town sounds like a dream!! Small town seaside vibes… if you are new in town… well they will notice!! The favorite gathering spot is The Drunken Sailor…where the drinks 🍺🥃🍷 are cold and the music 🎶 is hot! 🔥🔥

Everyone in town is a fan of the three generation band… The Mermaids 🧜‍♀️… these girls are regulars and the people of Moonlight Harbor wouldn’t have it any other way. 🤷‍♀️ When a new owner takes over the Drunken Sailor… let’s just say things go… sideways… 😬

This was such a feel good book. I enjoyed the dynamics of the girl band… I felt I knew each character personally… a wonderful summer read!!

This is book 7 in the Moonlight Harbor series… but it can be read as a standalone! I have not read any of the series and I found it totally worked. Thank you again @uplitreads !! 🥰🥰

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous women’s fiction novel set in a small town with a heartwarming story. Somewhat predictable; yet really entertaining as the author put her own spin on it. I loved the country vibe that’s relaxing and fun. I loved the three generations of women who make up the band, The Mermaids—grandmother, daughter, and granddaughter—who all had musical talent in spades. I enjoyed all the references to songs I personally know. Watching Loretta, Bonnie, and Avril deal with their personal ups and downs to achieve happy endings was inspiring. All three characters grew more backbone during the story. The humor added offset some of the tenser moments. Bonnie’s talent at painting mermaids was interesting. I think this story is a wonderful summer read! I highly recommend it!

I honestly reviewed an unedited digital arc provided by NetGalley and Harlequin. All opinions are my own.

[Danielle B · Rating 4 out of 5]

MERMAID BEACH is the seventh book in the Moonlight Harbor series, but can be read as a stand-alone. It was such a fun read and I just loved the Mermaid girls. I enjoyed their story about past love, music, family and new romances that were coming into fruition. Reading MERMAID BEACH is a great way to escape for a day into the lives of Bonnie, Loretta and Ariel. I liked every minute of it and recommend it to those that enjoy lighthearted romances.

Many thanks to Sheila Roberts, Harlequin Trade Publishing (MIRA) and NetGalley for my ARC.

This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit, it was the title for Mermaid Beach by Sheila Roberts that gave me pause. Mermaids are one of my favorite supernatural creatures, even though I know these mermaids won’t have fins and tails, and anything happening on the beach has to be a good thing….right?

This is a fantastic book to grab for your summer reading…or any time, really. My visit to Moonlight Harbor was wonderful. Though it is my first time, this is the seventh book in the series. We have three lovely ladies that cover three generations, singing in a band called the Mermaids. They are the house band at The Drunken Sailor. How much fun is that?

I found myself cracking up at some of the dialogue, especially once Bonnie meets a love interest and Team Estrogen urges her to go for it.

Nothing is smooth sailing for this fabulous trio. Like real life, there are plenty of bumps in the road when falling in love, making life choices for their future, and chasing their dreams. An old secret will be exposed, causing a rift in the family.

I find most, if not all, small town romances have unique characters that make a visit fun and exciting, as we get to know them. It will not be all sunshine and rainbows in Moonlight Harbor. Hearts will be broken, new love will blossom, other times wilting on the vine. Can there be a happy ever after for all three of them? Will their dreams come true? Or, will they find that sometimes what we seek the most is right in front of us?

Many times I am surprised by how much I can enjoy a novel, a clean story, that has no serial killers, murderers, or supernatural creatures out to kill us all. Mermaid Beach by Sheila Roberts is one of those. I was out of town, but could not stop reading. The more I read, the more I enjoyed it. Well done, Sheila! I hope to be back for another visit to Moonlight Harbor.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Mermaid Beach by Sheila Roberts.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun read and a fast read. It is part of a series, but I will be honest, it reads as a standalone. I recommend it and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you ever had the fantasy of writing music or singing, you will be able to relate to many of the characters in this novel. Three generations of women have a band called The Mermaids, and they are quite a hit in town. Don't mess with small-town favorites; it will cause you problems. However, the youngest wants to follow her dreams of being a songwriter, the middle one doesn't want to let her daughter go because she knows the heartache it might cause, and the oldest believes that everyone should follow their dreams...and find a good man!

Parts of this story sent up red flags, and what I thought would happen did happen. You will probably be able to figure it out, so I won't mention which character or the situation. There is enough drama, along with love, that it rounds out the story nicely.

Bonnie, the middle one, has had a life that wasn't quite what she expected. She doesn't want her daughter to fall into the same traps, but at the same time, she wants her daughter to be happy. I was glad to see that Bonnie started opening up to men again. I had to chuckle at the voices in her head that made up "Team Estrogen." These voices added quite a bit of humor at different times. Let's just say they wanted to see Bonnie with a man and getting some action. The man that has his sights on her is JJ, the new bar owner in town. They are attracted to one another, and a mistake on JJ's part when it comes to the house band in his bar nearly causes issues. I admired that he held back, treated Bonnie respectfully, and didn't rush her into a relationship. I think he recognized that it would take time to break through her walls.

I really enjoyed this town, the characters, and the music. This is the seventh in a series. While it can be read as a standalone, you are better served to start at the beginning to follow the characters in this town and understand the relationship of everyone. I need to go back and read the first few books and learn more about some of the other characters in town.

We give this book 5 paws up.

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: MERMAID BEACH
AUTHOR: Sheila Roberts
PUB DATE: 04.25.2023 Now Available

Small Town
Sweet Romance
Satisfying Read

Reading this book over the weekend while trying to unwind with a cup of tea or let’s be honest here, a glass of wine, in fact was such a great experience for me. Sheila Roberts transported me into the lives of these talented women, as the musical trio The Mermaids, a house band at The Drunken Sailor. While there, I swooned, I laughed, got my heart broken, and then pieced back together by the adventures and misadventures of Loretta, Bonnie, and Avril.

I loved how the story was centered about music, dreams, family, and love. the story had just enough drama and secrets that kept me turning those pages. This heartwarming read was the perfect companion for me for me as I unwind from a stressful week.

Be sure to check out all the books in the series. They are all awesome to read as stand alone.

A Moonlight Harbor Novel

Book 1: Welcome to Moonlight Harbor
Book 2: Winter at the Beach
Book 3: The Summer Retreat
Book 4: Beachside Beginnings
Book 5: Sunset on Moonlight Beach
Book 6: Sand Dollar Lane
Book 7: Mermaid Beach
Book 8: The Best Life Book Club

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy the Moonlight Harbor series, and although each book is a standalone story, I love meeting up with the people from the previous books. Bonnie Brinks heads up her her all-woman band, The Mermaids. The players are Bonnie, her mother Loretta, her daughter Avril and Avril's BFF. The Mermaids are the house band at the Drunken Sailor and everyone in town loves them. Before Avril was born, Bonnie went to Nashville to make it big as a singer/songwriter, but came home broken hearted, pregnant and determined to stay away from men. A new owner of the Drunken Sailor may be able to change her mind. Loretta, on the other hand, loved her husband and was devastated when she lost him. She is still looking for love, and in this story has both heartbreak and joy. Avril has a wonderful boyfriend and is happy in Moonlight Harbor, but also wants to try and make it in Nashville. Bonnie discourages her, but eventually, she heads off, breaking up with her boyfriend before going. Will these three ladies find the answers to their dreams?

Mermaid Beach is a feel good story that demonstrates that their may be ups and downs, but if you stay the course, your dreams may just come true. I loved all three of the main characters. They were talented, caring, fun-loving and independent women who gave whatever they were involved in 100%. Sometimes a trusting woman gets taken advantage of, but what you learn from it is important. I was so sad for Loretta when the man she loves turns out to be a heel, but I saw it coming. Bonnie fights so hard to keep Avril home, but being a good mother, knows that she has to let her go and I loved that about their relationship. Fortunately, Avril listened to her mother and was able to see who was trying to use her and her had her best interests at heart when it came to her music. There are lots of things I enjoy about this story: multi-generational family/relationship, overcoming adversity, romance, following dreams, new beginnings, and community. Mermaid Beach is another great addition to this sweet, romance/women's fiction series and I highly recommend it. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Anne Marie Gideon. I enjoyed her pleasant voice and expression. Her voices were well done and allowed me to differentiate the speakers. I enjoyed listening to this one.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome book! Very well written with a great cast of characters that draw you into the story.
I wish this wasn’t the last book in the series. I have fallen in love with the series. This book was the best of the series. Thank you Sheila Roberts for writing such amazing books.

[Susan • BryantParkBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed this fun beachy series by Sheila Roberts! Her newest novel is Mermaid Beach, about a band called the Mermaids that is made up of three generations of Brinks women.

Bonnie is the leader and the middle woman if the family. The Mermaids have a regular gig at the Drunken Sailor and it’s perfect for Bonnie. She once had dreams of making it in Nashville, but they ended up quickly when she returned home pregnant. Avril is her daughter who has the same dreams. She’s outgrown her small town and she wants to try to make it as a country song writer. She dumps her boyfriend just before leaving and regrets it almost immediately. Rounding out the band is Grandma Loretta. All three women are single and looking for love, but Loretta wants it the most.

I really enjoyed the dynamic of the women both as a family and a band. They book included someone of their song lyrics and that was a great bonus! If you are a big country music fan, I think this book would really appeal to you.

Many thanks to @sheilarobertswriter, @_mira_books @htpbooks for my gifted ebook. Mermaid Beach is on sale now!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach
Moonlight Harbor Series # 7
Author: Sheila Roberts
Pub Date: April 25, 2023

In celebration of motherhood, I want to tell you about a fabulous book about Bonnie, her mother Loretta, and her daughter, Avril. These three ladies play together at The Drunken Sailor in an all-woman band called The Mermaids. I was honored to be selected by Uplit Reads with a stop on the book tour for this humorous, yet touching book about aspirations and family connections. Sheila Roberts' reminds us in the book of the importance of having and chasing our dreams, at any age.

Moonlight Harbor is a charming, small coastal town in Washington State. This beautiful setting, along with the antics and adventures of the three "Mermaids" won me over with laughter, tears, and joy. Each woman is at a different stage in their lives, and that includes romance as well as music, art and personal dreams.

Roberts' writing puts her readers directly into her story, and I felt as if I was in the audience when The Mermaids were onstage or offstage. She can write scenes that you won't forget, including some hilarious yet tender ones in this book when someone does someone wrong! I am always in for a story involving live music, songwriting, love, and mother-daughter relationships, and this one even takes us to Nashville, Tennessee as well as Moonlight Harbor.
Although this book is number 7 in the Moonlight Harbor series, it is also a good standalone book. I will have to visit Moonlight Harbor often with the other books in the series.

I appreciate Uplit Reads including me in this book tour.
Thank you to Up Lit Reads, Net Galley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for both e-book and signed paperback advance reader's copies. My review is my own.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach tells the story of three generations of The Mermaids, an all-woman band. The cover drew me in immediately, and the unique characters and the small town of Moonlight Harbor grabbed my heart.

I enjoyed the journey with these three ladies, Loretta, Bonnie, and Avril, empathizing with their hardships and rejoicing in their victories.

I love the love, music, and familial bonds the grandmother, mother, and granddaughter share. I felt for each of them, though Bonnie could be a bit difficult to connect with at times.

This is a great read for a beach trip, with a wonderful small-town feel, quirky characters, witty dialogue, fun music, and satisfying romance. This is my first read of the series, so I’m happy it works well on its own.

First Line: When you were a Mermaid, how could you not be inspired to paint mermaids?
Series: A Moonlight Harbor Novel book #7
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction
Author: Sheila Roberts
Page Count: 384

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.

[Charlene Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach is the 8th book in the Moonlight Harbour series!
Each book is enjoyable and, in my opinion, do not have to be read in order.
Each one is absolutely it’s own satisfying story!
But, you will definitely want to read them all!

If you’re looking for a heart warming, fun, strong female lead, unique storyline, sprinkled with romantic tension and dreams fulfilled, then you’ve come to the right place with Mermaid Beach!

Author Sheila Roberts has always been a favourite author of mine.
Not only do I love her storytelling, but I also live in the Pacific Northwest and love that her books are mostly set here!

I was thrilled to be gifted an advanced reader copy of her newest book Mermaid Beach, and it did not disappoint!

Thankyou Sheila, for the extra effort in getting it to me!

Charlene @lastnownext 📚🌸🤗

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Musical mermaids are all over this book. I loved the three generational band. Each lady has her story. Loretta looking for love in all the wrong places. Bonnie is holding out for a hero and Avril wants to sing let’s hear it for the boy.
I loved all the song references and the creativity of the ladies. Each mermaid finds her match, but there are plenty of tidal waves along the swim.
My favorite was Kenny, I knew he was Kenny the keeper from the beginning and glad that his someone special realized it.
Reading about the sexy sirens at the beach will be a catchy tune for Roberts’s fans.

[Star Forbis · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Losing was a temporary experience, not a chronic condition."

"Bad things happen . . . but so do good things."

There's nothin' wrong with being old. Happens to the best of us . . . It happened much sooner than you ever dreamed it would when you were young, and it seemed the less sand left in the top of the hourglass the faster it fell to the bottom. She could feel herself in the middle of that sand slide, reaching out, trying to hang on to every moment left to her."

"Too late came too fast."

[Cindy Feigert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner in this series. I liked the whole mermaid theme through the book. Three strong mermaids,well actually ladies, who were strong , good to each other and each trying to find their true path on land . My favorite line spoken by JJ "good to appreciate what's already on your plate " Thanks for another winner Sheila Roberts.

[Jennifer Albat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute story! If you love the beach and country music, you can certainly identify with these ladies no matter your age.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable story of a family of three generations of women finding their way in their season of life.

Filled with music and a trip or two to Nashville, Tennessee.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciated the opportunity to read and review and advanced copy of this book, in return for an honest review.

Thank you Sheila Roberts. I have visited Moonlight Harbor in your previous books. I read Mermaid Beach, met a new family and I thoroughly enjoyed the visit.

I met three generations of women, each searching for different things - Avril wants to be a songwriter in Nashville. Bonnie, her mom, made some big mistakes in Nashville when she was Avril’s age and doesn’t want Avril to make the same kind of mistakes she made. Bonnie’s mom, Loretta, a widow, misses the companionship of a man. They play together in a very popular local band called Mermaids. But each as a different dream for their future. The story weaves in and out of all these women’s musical lives and is filled with love, regrets, pain, forgiveness and healing.

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach is #7 in the delightful Moonlight Harbor series and can be read as a stand-alone. Bonnie and her band, The Mermaids, are the house band at The Drunken Sailor in coastal Moonlight Harbor. Bonnie’s daughter, Avril, and mother, Loretta, are part of the band, and music is the family business. When Bonnie was younger, she tried to make it big in Nashville. Now, Avril has big musical dreams of her own. There’s a new owner at The Drunken Sailor that wants to try out a new house band. Job security, a young adult daughter chasing her dreams, and a slow-burn romance challenge Bonnie’s stable, happy life.

What are your favorite tropes? Two of my favorites are found in Mermaid Beach: slow-burn romance and enemies to lovers. Tropes certainly make for predictable stories, but it’s also comfortable reading when looking for an escapist or low-stress read.

In Mermaid Beach, we enjoy a cast of multigenerational characters: a grandmother, a mother, and a YA daughter. They comprise the popular local band, The Mermaids, but each one has different challenges and aspirations. Loretta is looking for a golden years romance; Bonnie is trying to keep the band afloat as the bar is under new ownership; and Avril is outgrowing Moonlight Harbor and envisioning a music career in Nashville. Through uncertain times, they share a strong bond.

If you’re looking for a dependable author who writes sweet romance and inspiring women’s fiction, please consider Sheila Roberts. Her trademarks are profanity-free narratives, closed-door romances, likable characters, and strong, independent women overcoming obstacles. I entered this series with installment #4 and immediately caught up with books #1-3. Mermaid Beach is #7, and I’m not sure if this will end the series. However, I’m all in if it continues.

Do you love a good series? I’m a reader that falls hard for a good series! With most series, I think reading in order brings the most reading satisfaction. I’m a die-hard read-in-order reader even though I jumped into this series at #4 and had to backtrack. Generally, Moonlight Harbor installments can be read as stand alones, however, #5 and #6 should be read in order.

Each book addresses a different issue that women face, but it’s not “trauma lit.” OK….I made that up! I’m sure you’ve all read books that make you “ugly cry” and contain trauma after trauma. Sheila Roberts writes realistic fiction with likable characters that overcome life’s obstacles and find their HEAs which are typical of the romance genre. Although compelling and poignant, they haven’t made me cry.

I appreciate a sweet closed-door romance! I’m confident I can recommend this series to any fan of women’s romance fiction. If you prefer a lot of “steam,” you might find this is not the right series or author for you.

Throughout the series, thoughtful and poignant themes include women supporting women, friendship, overcoming obstacles, chasing your dreams, new beginnings, community support, romance. and HEAs (or happy for now).

Overall, I rate the series a solid 4 stars, so I can enthusiastically recommend it for fans of light women’s fiction and closed-door romance. If you are looking for light reading over the summer, you might be pleased with the Moonlight Harbor series.

Thanks #NetGalley @HarlequinBooks (Mira) for a complimentary e ARC of #MermaidBeach upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.

[Sonya Pope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all of this book. My favorites was when all the mermaids got engaged and Gina found a man in Nashville.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach
Moonlight Harbor #7
Shelia Roberts


Mermaid Beach, #7 in Shelia Roberts’ Moonlight Harbor series is amazing, it’s a love story, a family drama, a mothers and daughters saga, it’s also about being brave enough to follow your dreams and second chances. There are multiple stars in the book, mostly the three generations of Brinks women, Loretta, Bonnie and Avril but there are some really good costars too, some we’ve met in earlier Moonlight Harbor tales and some are new to us and every one is special. Speaking of the stars these three Brinks women are trailblazers, Loretta the sexagenarian is not afraid to look for love and put her heart out there. Bonnie, the conundrum who’s heart is encased in ice readers will learn more about and love as the author peels away her layers and then there’s Avril who is a beautiful mix of the other two women, brave like Bonnie but with an open heart like Loretta. This novel will appeal to a wide range of readers and even though as in all series its best read in order there is enough of a complete story to read on its own. Fans of this series of Susan Wiggs, Emily Richards or Kristan Higgins will love this novel.

Once upon a time Bonnie Brinks had a dream of making it big in Nashville as a singer/songwriter, but all too quickly that dream turned into a nightmare when instead of writing a country song, her life became one, being betrayed by the man she loved and her best friend. The only thing good to come out of Nashville was her precious daughter Avril and she would do anything to prevent Avril from making the same mistakes she did. Now years later Bonnie has a good life in Moonlight Harbor, Washington splitting her time between working at the local realtor, painting Mermaids for fun and performing with The Mermaids a country girl band along with her mom and her daughter. But lately Avril has been restless and Bonnie recognizes the signs and wonders if she’s about to lose her only daughter to her own Nashville heartbreak or will Avril be one of the lucky ones and make it there.

Avril Brinks loves her mom and her grandma and loves performing with them as The Mermaids, she also loves teaching music at the local high school, but she’s got dreams and she can only realize those dreams in Nashville. She may not know why her mom hates Nashville so much but she knows her mom is only looking out for her best interests by trying to talk her out of going, but Avril’s an adult and she has to live her own life. Then there’s Kenny, the sweetest man ever and she knows she’d have to give him up and break not only his heart but her mother’s heart if she moves to Nashville to try her luck at songwriting. And she’s not sure she’s brave enough to do either.

Loretta Brinks once gave up her dreams of Nashville when she found the man of her dreams and had no problem giving up the bright lights for a happy home. But now she’s a widow and even though she loves performing with her daughter and granddaughter she’s ready to find love again. She also wishes she could make Bonnie see that trying to cut Avril’s wings will only backfire, that she needs to let Avril make her own way whether it’s a mistake or not it’s Avril’s choice to make. She also wishes Bonnie would open up the heart that must have been so badly broken during her Nashville days and let love in. But those are all tall orders.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a HUGE fan of Sheila Roberts’ books and perhaps more importantly, her sense of humor. I will never regret picking up a couple of her books years ago and reading them. I have since read every one of her books I could get my hands on.

I loved the book, Mermaid Beach by Sheila Roberts. (You can find out more about the storyline etc. elsewhere.) I got this book several weeks ago and put it aside for my vacation on the east (right) coast. This was mainly due to the fact that I knew I’d be away on release day and often, if I read a book in advance and then go to review it several weeks later, I feel that I may forget vital information or mix up the stories. Since I’ve read pretty near fifty books this year, perhaps that’s understandable! Not to mention, reading on vacation, isn’t that like a thing and when you have a view like mine, well, enough said! We arrived to our vacation spot to have no heat or hot water for four days, needless to say, we were pretty stinky and cold by the time all was returned to normal. In our week here, I’ve read 3 ¾ books, done 3 thousand-piece puzzles, thawed out and showered, multiple times. In the end, I quite simply appreciate a good, enjoyable and clean read and this is definitely one of those.

I enjoyed meeting The Mermaids: Glamma (Loretta), Bonnie and Avril as well as catching up with several past Moonlight Harbor inhabitants. The fact that The Mermaids is a multi-generational band, grandmother, daughter and granddaughter, the house band at The Drunken Sailor, is an interesting addition to the storyline. The Mermaids all have their ups and downs throughout the story but in the end, all is well in Moonlight Harbor. As I already mentioned, Ms. Roberts’ sense of humor is to die for. The first memorable thing that caught my attention in this book would be “Been There. Done That. Bought the T-shirt. Returned It.” (I hope I got that quote correct.) Let’s not even get started with the character’s dreams and Team Estrogen—I was rooting for the latter!

I think I’d heard somewhere that this would be the last Moonlight Harbor book, which makes me sad. I’ve read them in order, but others indicate that they’re OK as standalones. For those that may be interested, here they are in order.
#1 Welcome to Moonlight Harbor
#2 Winter at the Beach
#3 The Summer Retreat
#4 Beachside Beginnings
#5 Sunset on Moonlight Beach
#6 Sand Dollar Lane
#7 Mermaid Beach

In the interest of full disclosure, I got this book from the author as part of her street team. But I’d have gotten, read and reviewed it anyway!

[Romantic Reads and Such · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mermaid Beach definitely falls more into the women’s fiction category than romance. Yes, the characters get their HEA, and it is a very satisfying one, but the story is really about them finding their way. The three generations that make up our story are all immensely talented musicians, but life seems to have other plans for them.

Loretta met the love of her life and settled down to raise a family. Widowed at an early age, she hasn’t given up on finding someone new to share her life with. Bonnie tried to make a go of it in Nashville, but betrayal sent her home, vowing to never trust another man again. Avril is ready to give Nashville a try, regardless of what her mother says, but can she leave everything from the life she’s made in Moonlight Harbor behind.

Loretta’s zest for life and willingness to find the positive in everything makes her my favorite, I think. She’s so spunky and so brave about putting herself out there. And the love and encouragement she shows her daughter & granddaughter at every turn is the best. Bonnie might be a bit harder for some to take as she’s not an easy woman and has definitely let her past bring her down but with a little faith and support, she will find her way. Avril has had that support from both her mother and grandmother, so she heads off on her adventures with a pretty solid head on her shoulders. It gives her the courage to reach for her dreams and the ability to recognize the right thing to do.

Following the lives of our Mermaids has us going at a bit slower pace. Things are pretty complicated for all of them, with lots of bumps and surprises along the way, but it’s a good journey. One of self-discovery, facing the past AND the future, and figuring out what would truly bring them happiness. It’s not easy to take chances and to trust in others, but with friends and family behind them these three just might figure out what they really want.

(This is my first in the Moonlight Harbor series and while it easily stands alone, I know there are a lot of people that I would know more about if I’d read the other stories. It didn’t impact anything, just gave me a feeling that there’s more going on here that I’m not aware of.)

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

[Amy Shook · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful book with three generations of musically gifted women finding love in music, family and Mr.Right.

Synopsis:

Along the Wasington Coast, in a small town of Moonlight Harbor you can find three mermaids: Grandmother Loretta ( known as Glamma) is not you average sixty- fve year old with her cropped white hair with green tips dressed in boots and leather jacket. She is a forever romantic looking for someone to spend the last part of her life after losing her husband years ago. Bonnie tried to make it as a songwriter in Nashville but got her heart broken. Since then she has not given men the time of day, although with her green eyes and red hair she’s the object of many a man’s desire. Bonnie has dedicated her life to her daughter, Arvil and being part of the mermaids. Arvil is Bonnie’s daughter and her life on Moonlight is good singing and playing guitara with the mermaids, dating sweet and stable Keven, as well as working as music teacher Her dreams are bigger than Moonlitgt Harbor: she would like to follow her dreams of going to Nashville to see if she can make it big in the music industry. Bonnie prefers that Arvil play it safe and stay where she’s at Together the three make up the Mermaids that work as the house band at local favorite the Drunken Sailor.

Loretta is duped by a smooth talking man. Bonnie is tempted by the new owner of The Drunken Sailor and Arville has quit her teaching job to pursue music in Nashville. Throught the ups and downs the three of them always have one another to lean on.

My thoughts:
The last couple of years I have read Robert’s Christmas books but this is the first beach read of hers I’ve done and It had just as much heart and humor as the Christmas books.! What I loved best about this book was the three generations of women. I am very close with both my my mom and my oldest daughter traveling ttogether for holidays and vacations. These characters were very relatable, I could identify with both Loretta and Bonnie on looking for love and with Avril her career and questions about her father. I definitely recommend you add this to your summer reading list! I just realized this is book seven of the Moonlight Harbon series. It is definitely readable without having read the rest of the series.

Language Arts is a position I am most excited to be in

[Lori Church · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm sorry. Reading and enjoying this book has me longing to go to The Drunken Sailor bar to eat delicious onion rings and to hear The Mermaids and their all woman band. I apologize because I don't go to any bars as a rule.
I also love warm weather and can't tolerate coolness very well at all but, this book describes the beautiful, poignant beach in the Pacific Northwest as such a wonderful place, I truly want to be there. I want to enjoy the sense of community and friendship in Moonlight Harbor. "Moonlight Harbor"; even the name has a sense of romance and special calling out to it.
I was totally immersed in the lives of my friends Bonnie, Loretta, and Avril. This grandmother, mom, and daughter are amazing, strong, talented women. The mom and grandma are still hot band performers who write music too. Bonnie happens to be a gifted painter whose paintings of various mermaid scenes mesmerize people so much, her work is always in demand. It's a good thing she didn't give up her hobby of painting.
Well, being that these mermaids are all good looking, men are attracted to them. Mermaids have to be very careful who they trust enough to let themselves be "caught." Being caught in a love relationship with a mermaid can have its drama involved. Realize these women are not "actual" mermaids but with such colorful hair and personalities, their talents are almost as mystical. With great talent can come a longing for fame and fortune. Yes, the call of Nashville fame calls to at least two of the mermaids. In Nashville, Tennessee there are people who want to act like your friend, but they really aren't. In Nashville, the beautiful, talented people are hard to resist falling in love with. Even mermaids must remember their roots that come from "genuine" people being genuine.
Who finds love? Who finds fame and fortune? Who moves from Moonlight Harbor to Nashville? Who realizes there's no place like home? The story pulls you in and you are hooked on being close friends with these women immediately. You want the best for them. You can't wait till the end to see how everything turns out BUT you hate to see the story end.

[Slick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bonnie Brinks heads up her her all-woman band, The Mermaids. The players are Bonnie, her mother Loretta, her daughter Avril and Avril's BFF. The Mermaids are the house band at the Drunken Sailor and everyone in town loves them. Before Avril was born, Bonnie went to Nashville to make it big as a singer/songwriter, but came home broken hearted, pregnant and determined to stay away from men. A new owner of the Drunken Sailor may be able to change her mind. Loretta, on the other hand, loved her husband and was devastated when she lost him. She is still looking for love, and in this story has both heartbreak and joy. Avril has a wonderful boyfriend and is happy in Moonlight Harbor, but also wants to try and make it in Nashville. Bonnie discourages her, but eventually, she heads off, breaking up with her boyfriend before going. Will these three ladies find the answers to their dreams?

Mermaid Beach is a feel good story that demonstrates that their may be ups and downs, but if you stay the course, your dreams may just come true. I loved all three of the main characters. They were talented, caring, fun-loving and independent women who gave whatever they were involved in 100%. Sometimes a trusting woman gets taken advantage of, but what you learn from it is important. I was so sad for Loretta when the man she loves turns out to be a heel, but I saw it coming. Bonnie fights so hard to keep Avril home, but being a good mother, knows that she has to let her go and I loved that about their relationship. Fortunately, Avril listened to her mother and was able to see who was trying to use her and her had her best interests at heart when it came to her music. There are lots of things I enjoy about this story: multi-generational family/relationship, overcoming adversity, romance, following dreams, new beginnings, and community. Mermaid Beach is another great addition to this sweet, romance/women's fiction series and I highly recommend it. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Anne Marie Gideon. I enjoyed her pleasant voice and expression. Her voices were well done and allowed me to differentiate the speakers. I enjoyed listening to this one.

[Pj Ausdenmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read every book in Sheila Roberts' Moonlight Harbor series. Mermaid Beach is my favorite. I laughed, cried, sighed, and laughed some more. These characters were so easy to root for and all three Brinks women - at various crossroads in their lives - took me on a satisfying, heart-tugging journey I wouldn't have wanted to miss.

The multi-generation family dynamics in this book are realistic and very relatable. Roberts has created these women in such a way that I was able to identify with daughter, mother, and grandmother as well as the challenges looming in each of their lives. I loved their bond, the complexity of their family relationships, and the growth of each of their characters as they stepped out of their comfort zones and forged unexpected paths to new adventures, love, and happiness.

The musical nods in the book - both onstage and behind the scenes - had me tapping my toes and singing along while the scenes in Moonlight Harbor as well as those in Nashville lend an undeniable air of authenticity to the characters' experiences.

Citizens of Moonlight Harbor float in and out of the story, adding texture and richness to the book without taking attention from the main characters. For fans of the series, it's always fun to catch up with a character from an earlier book but for those readers new to Moonlight Harbor, Mermaid Beach is a great place to jump in without feeling lost or confused.

If you're looking for a heart-tugging story of three generations of women with complex, relatable family dynamics, chasing dreams at a variety of ages, humor, emotional depth, romance, and hard-won, happy endings, I highly recommend Sheila Roberts' Mermaid Beach. It's a wonderful book to add to your summer reading list.

*ARC received from publisher. Fair and unbiased review.

[Jodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The seventh installment in the Moonlit Harbor series and the last by Sheila Roberts was so heartwarming. The small town feel and the warm beach bring feelings of calm and peace. It is the perfect summer read.

Being back in Moonlit harbor was like going home. Welcoming the characters in your home for another adventure is a reward you should give yourself. The three generations in this story really hits home with every one of us.Loretta(glamma),Bonnie(her daughter) and Avril (her granddaughter) are all in different stages of life. The relationships between these fine ladies makes you want to be a part of their family. All being in an all girl band called the Mermaids, and playing sold out shows in the towns best hangout The Drunken sailor bar made for great storytelling. The music references brings back your own memories of past times and makes you want to be part of this small town. The characters make you feel for each one of them.I love Loretta never gives up on love and wants her girls happy. Bonnie who thinks she is done with relationships, but she secretly needs one. Avril who seems to have the best of all with a man who adores her, but she feels like needs more in life. This story made me realize I am going to miss Moonlit harbor!.

Sheila Roberts know how to write a story. When I pick up one of her books I know I am going to love the characters and relate to their plight. She relies on real life problems with wholesome comic relief. Moonlit Harbor is a place to call home!Thank you Sheila for yet again bringing good people together to bring us a story we never want to leave. Highly recommend this series and very much look forward to her next novel!
#Mira
#MermaidBeach
#SheilaRoberts

[angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beach reading season is here! If you are looking for a multi-generational small-town romance, with heart and a happy ending pick up a copy of Mermaid Beach by Sheila Roberts! I really enjoyed the country music vibes, the town of Moonlight Harbor, and the characters. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan and Robyn Carr. Though this one is part of a series, you can easily jump in at any point.

Bonnie Brinks and her all-woman band, The Mermaids, are the pride of Moonlight Harbor. They’re the house band at The Drunken Sailor, and that’s just the right amount of fame for Bonnie. A lifetime ago, she went to Nashville to make it big, but she returned home with a broken heart and broken dreams. Now she’s got a comfortable life and a brilliant daughter, Avril, who plays for The Mermaids alongside Bonnie and Bonnie’s mother, Loretta.

Avril has big dreams of her own. Her life in Moonlight Harbor is good—she loves singing and playing guitar with The Mermaids, and she has the sweetest, most loyal boyfriend a girl could ask for—but it all feels so…small. She can’t help wondering if there’s something more out there for her. And she doesn’t understand why her mom won’t support her going to Nashville to find out.

Meanwhile, Bonnie threw in the towel on her love life long ago, but Loretta sure hasn’t. She’s determined to be swept off her feet, and she wants the same for her daughter. When the hunky new owner of The Drunken Sailor turns the tables on the band and Avril announces she’s leaving Moonlight Harbor, Bonnie’s comfortable life seems to be drifting away. Will these three generations of Mermaids find their happy endings on the Washington coast? Or will the change in the winds leave them all shipwrecked?