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Making Waves at River View Cottage
Cassie Lewis, a widow for over 20 years has begun to realise there must be more to life.
In-between working at the family boatyard in picture perfect Dartmouth and raising two children, she wonders where the years have gone.
Both her children, Tom and Polly, have inherited their father’s love of sailing and currently Tom is preparing for a gruelling round the world race. When an accident forces Tom to pull out, Polly, to Cassie’s horror, insists she is capable of taking his place.
As Polly prepares for the race, Cassie unexpectedly finds herself with two keen and eligible men vying for her love.
With her BIG 5-0 birthday approaching Cassie knows she has some big decisions to make but will the worry over Polly’s safe return, cloud her judgement?
In-between working at the family boatyard in picture perfect Dartmouth and raising two children, she wonders where the years have gone.
Both her children, Tom and Polly, have inherited their father’s love of sailing and currently Tom is preparing for a gruelling round the world race. When an accident forces Tom to pull out, Polly, to Cassie’s horror, insists she is capable of taking his place.
As Polly prepares for the race, Cassie unexpectedly finds herself with two keen and eligible men vying for her love.
With her BIG 5-0 birthday approaching Cassie knows she has some big decisions to make but will the worry over Polly’s safe return, cloud her judgement?
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
386 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bohnet
40 books290 followersSixteen years ago Richard and I, with our then dog, 14 year old Holly in a trailer attached to Richard's bike, cycled down through western France via the canal paths, arriving in Antibes in July. With the exception of two fleeting visits back to the UK we have lived in France ever since.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 21, 2022
Well that was a rather exhilarating read. I adored it.
The action, drama and descriptions of a solo yachting race taking in some rather dangerous parts of the ocean were so vivid I felt as though I was there.
Had my heart racing and had me dreaming of boats and sailing that night after I finishing reading while in bed.
And I enjoyed Cassie's storyline too, with her fears for her children's safety while 20 years of widowhood later, she is realising she needs to get out of her rut and start living a bit more.
I was completely engrossed in this book which I finished in only a few hours. It may have been one of Jennifer Bohnet's earliest books (updated and reissued) but just goes to show even then how good her ideas are. Was utterly fabulous.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
The action, drama and descriptions of a solo yachting race taking in some rather dangerous parts of the ocean were so vivid I felt as though I was there.
Had my heart racing and had me dreaming of boats and sailing that night after I finishing reading while in bed.
And I enjoyed Cassie's storyline too, with her fears for her children's safety while 20 years of widowhood later, she is realising she needs to get out of her rut and start living a bit more.
I was completely engrossed in this book which I finished in only a few hours. It may have been one of Jennifer Bohnet's earliest books (updated and reissued) but just goes to show even then how good her ideas are. Was utterly fabulous.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 1, 2022
This was a sweet book, very readable and I was hooked right away. Set in Devon and centres around a family that love sailing and races. It was such a cozy story that the pages just raced by. I loved it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 9, 2023
Making Waves at Riverview Cottage: A Heartwarming Story with Nautical Charm (4 out of 5 stars)
**Making Waves at Riverview Cottage** by Jennifer Bohnet is a delightful read that refreshingly features a 50-year-old protagonist, Cassie Lewis. After years of widowhood, Cassie embarks on a new chapter, inheriting a charming cottage by the river and embracing the unexpected world of yachting. While I initially knew nothing about yachting, Bohnet's engaging storytelling quickly brought me on board, offering fascinating insights into this unique and vibrant world.
The book's true strength lies in its exploration of themes like friendship, family, and second chances. Cassie's journey of self-discovery is heartwarming and relatable, as she navigates old wounds, newfound passions, and unexpected relationships. The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth and humor to the narrative, particularly Cassie's loyal friend Meg and the charmingly eccentric yachting community.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there were a few aspects that kept it from achieving a full 5-star rating. At times, the pacing felt slightly uneven, and certain plot points could have been developed further. Additionally, some readers might find the romantic element a bit predictable.
Overall, **Making Waves at Riverview Cottage** is a charming and uplifting read that offers a unique perspective on aging, friendship, and embracing new possibilities. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming story with a touch of nautical charm. It's perfect for those who enjoy stories about strong female characters, second chances, and finding joy in unexpected places.
**Making Waves at Riverview Cottage** by Jennifer Bohnet is a delightful read that refreshingly features a 50-year-old protagonist, Cassie Lewis. After years of widowhood, Cassie embarks on a new chapter, inheriting a charming cottage by the river and embracing the unexpected world of yachting. While I initially knew nothing about yachting, Bohnet's engaging storytelling quickly brought me on board, offering fascinating insights into this unique and vibrant world.
The book's true strength lies in its exploration of themes like friendship, family, and second chances. Cassie's journey of self-discovery is heartwarming and relatable, as she navigates old wounds, newfound passions, and unexpected relationships. The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth and humor to the narrative, particularly Cassie's loyal friend Meg and the charmingly eccentric yachting community.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there were a few aspects that kept it from achieving a full 5-star rating. At times, the pacing felt slightly uneven, and certain plot points could have been developed further. Additionally, some readers might find the romantic element a bit predictable.
Overall, **Making Waves at Riverview Cottage** is a charming and uplifting read that offers a unique perspective on aging, friendship, and embracing new possibilities. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming story with a touch of nautical charm. It's perfect for those who enjoy stories about strong female characters, second chances, and finding joy in unexpected places.
January 21, 2026
**review to come**
August 20, 2022
Really enjoyed this book I'm fact it brought a tear to my eye in parts
Female endurance, compromises, family life and love all put together in a great story. Great beach read. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy
Female endurance, compromises, family life and love all put together in a great story. Great beach read. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy
September 25, 2022
I have been a fan of Jennifer's work for a while now. I haven't caught up with everything that she has written but I hope to one day very soon. I read the synopsis of 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' and it certainly sounded like the sort of book I have come to expect from Jennifer - a heart warming and uplifting sort of story. Well it was certainly all that and more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I stared reading, I knew that there was a fair chance that I wouldn't be doing anything other than reading for the rest of the day. I had initially picked the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I was so blown away by the story and by the characters that I was still sat there reading over two hours and several chapters later. My Kindle wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn't bear to miss a single second of the story. It was as if the book developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn't willing to break. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen and I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track. I found 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' to be a joy to read from start to finish and it certainly held my attention throughout.
'Making Waves At River View Cottage' is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Jennifer Bohnet. Jennifer has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Jennifer's books feels like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me this was more of a gentle pace of read, which suits the story that Jennifer is telling. I loved the characters, I loved the storylines and I loved the sound of where the story is set. In fact there isn't one thing that I disliked about the book. Jennifer clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Jennifer makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That's how I felt anyway.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jennifer's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As soon as I stared reading, I knew that there was a fair chance that I wouldn't be doing anything other than reading for the rest of the day. I had initially picked the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I was so blown away by the story and by the characters that I was still sat there reading over two hours and several chapters later. My Kindle wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I just couldn't bear to miss a single second of the story. It was as if the book developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn't willing to break. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen and I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track. I found 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' to be a joy to read from start to finish and it certainly held my attention throughout.
'Making Waves At River View Cottage' is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Jennifer Bohnet. Jennifer has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Jennifer's books feels like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. For me this was more of a gentle pace of read, which suits the story that Jennifer is telling. I loved the characters, I loved the storylines and I loved the sound of where the story is set. In fact there isn't one thing that I disliked about the book. Jennifer clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Jennifer makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That's how I felt anyway.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Making Waves At River View Cottage' and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jennifer's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
September 24, 2022
In the twenty or so years since she lost her husband in a sailing accident, Cassie has focused her life on her two children, Tom and Polly, and the day-to-day running of the Dartmouth boatyard owned by her father. She may have lost her own confidence as a sailor, but that’s certainly not the case for her children – Tom is about to undertake a round-the-world boat race, the preparations well in hand, when a freak accident prevents him from taking part, and daughter Polly (just 19, and perhaps a less experienced sailor) decides to take his place. The story then alternates between Polly’s gruelling voyage and her experiences along the way and Cassie’s life as she makes a few major decisions of her own, not least whether it’s time (as her 50th birthday approaches) to move on from the sadness of her loss and let love into her life again.
I know nothing about the world of competitive sailing – although I did watch every single episode of Howards’ Way back in the 80s! – but the author does a quite wonderful job of bringing the whole experience to life, along with the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the competition. I loved Polly – desperate to be taken seriously as a sailor, facing up to the immense challenges of the task she’s taken on, the day-to-day loneliness, the unexpected dramas, the exhilaration of success and the fear of failure. The story is really strong on the technical side, and I was very impressed by the author’s evident research and knowledge – with enough detail (never too much…) to bring the whole experience vividly to life.
But I was equally captivated by Cassie’s story – her constant and understandable concern for Polly, the challenges at home for son Tom and his young family, and her own decision to move on while making her choice between the two men keen to have a place in her life. She’s a particularly sympathetic character, her story particularly well-told and with a feel of authenticity – she does have a constant edge of sadness, but also an appetite to face up to her fears and take on the challenges of her future. The romantic content is gentle, and perfectly judged – this is always Cassie’s story, about what will bring her the happiness she needs and deserves.
I really loved this one – the focus on family and friendships, the strong characterisation, the drama at sea, the quieter moments at home, the way the story unfolded. It’s a book with real warmth, moving and uplifting – and very much recommended.
I know nothing about the world of competitive sailing – although I did watch every single episode of Howards’ Way back in the 80s! – but the author does a quite wonderful job of bringing the whole experience to life, along with the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the competition. I loved Polly – desperate to be taken seriously as a sailor, facing up to the immense challenges of the task she’s taken on, the day-to-day loneliness, the unexpected dramas, the exhilaration of success and the fear of failure. The story is really strong on the technical side, and I was very impressed by the author’s evident research and knowledge – with enough detail (never too much…) to bring the whole experience vividly to life.
But I was equally captivated by Cassie’s story – her constant and understandable concern for Polly, the challenges at home for son Tom and his young family, and her own decision to move on while making her choice between the two men keen to have a place in her life. She’s a particularly sympathetic character, her story particularly well-told and with a feel of authenticity – she does have a constant edge of sadness, but also an appetite to face up to her fears and take on the challenges of her future. The romantic content is gentle, and perfectly judged – this is always Cassie’s story, about what will bring her the happiness she needs and deserves.
I really loved this one – the focus on family and friendships, the strong characterisation, the drama at sea, the quieter moments at home, the way the story unfolded. It’s a book with real warmth, moving and uplifting – and very much recommended.
August 27, 2022
A truly enjoyable story of finding yourself at 50. After being a widow for the past twenty years and pouring all of her time and energy into her children and their happiness, Cassie is left wondering what to do with herself as they reach a point in their lives where they don't need her as much anymore. It's hard to let go, as much because it's all you know anymore, as it is because you have no idea who you are anymore.
I so resonated with this story after being a single parent for 24 years now myself. That transition is hard. But it's necessary, for everyone's future happiness.
I loved seeing how Cassie and both her grown children, Tom and Polly, worked their way through it together, learning how to identify their wants and needs, and set boundaries where needed.
Overall, a very inspiring tale. Thank you to Jennifer Bohnet, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for an advance review copy.
I so resonated with this story after being a single parent for 24 years now myself. That transition is hard. But it's necessary, for everyone's future happiness.
I loved seeing how Cassie and both her grown children, Tom and Polly, worked their way through it together, learning how to identify their wants and needs, and set boundaries where needed.
Overall, a very inspiring tale. Thank you to Jennifer Bohnet, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for an advance review copy.
September 18, 2022
Despite this being a rerelease, I had never come across this gorgeous book before. Cassie is the central character, and her story is a particularly sad one. Widowed over 20 years previously, she has raised her two children to enjoy their lives to the full. They all live and work at the family boatyard that is run by Cassie’s Dad.
Tom, Cassie’s son is married to Mai, and they are expecting their first child. Both her children have inherited her late husband’s love of yacht racing and the story opens with Tom completing a practice run for the world-famous round-the-world yacht race.
Daughter Polly is equally keen to become a successful yacht racer and she has all the skills required which is serendipitous as she finds herself stepping in when Tom has an accident which rules him out of the race.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about the technical side of yacht racing and was surprised by how invested I became in the process. After his accident, it becomes clear that Tom will need a more accessible home, so Cassie lets Tom and Mai have the family home, swapping with them to take up residence at Riverview Cottage. After 20 years of living her life through her kids, Cassie now feels that she’s ready to put herself first. Suitors are readily available, and she finds herself being courted by two men. One an old friend and the other an ultra-wealthy businessman. Following these courtships, we learn more about Cassie’s train of thought and her hopes and fears.
This book offers everything that I needed to keep my attention glued and I finished the story in a single sitting. The romance is perfectly framed, and I was thrilled when Cassie chose the suitor that I preferred. I’m sure that Jennifer Bohnet planned that I would favour one over the other, but the storyline felt completely natural. This isn’t a story about a widow needing to find a new partner, it’s about a woman, who has been grieving, coming back to a life that has been waiting for her. Cassie is strong and more than capable of enjoying her life alone, but she discovers love on her own terms.
I enjoyed escaping onto the high seas and discovering that life can begin again at 50.
Tom, Cassie’s son is married to Mai, and they are expecting their first child. Both her children have inherited her late husband’s love of yacht racing and the story opens with Tom completing a practice run for the world-famous round-the-world yacht race.
Daughter Polly is equally keen to become a successful yacht racer and she has all the skills required which is serendipitous as she finds herself stepping in when Tom has an accident which rules him out of the race.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about the technical side of yacht racing and was surprised by how invested I became in the process. After his accident, it becomes clear that Tom will need a more accessible home, so Cassie lets Tom and Mai have the family home, swapping with them to take up residence at Riverview Cottage. After 20 years of living her life through her kids, Cassie now feels that she’s ready to put herself first. Suitors are readily available, and she finds herself being courted by two men. One an old friend and the other an ultra-wealthy businessman. Following these courtships, we learn more about Cassie’s train of thought and her hopes and fears.
This book offers everything that I needed to keep my attention glued and I finished the story in a single sitting. The romance is perfectly framed, and I was thrilled when Cassie chose the suitor that I preferred. I’m sure that Jennifer Bohnet planned that I would favour one over the other, but the storyline felt completely natural. This isn’t a story about a widow needing to find a new partner, it’s about a woman, who has been grieving, coming back to a life that has been waiting for her. Cassie is strong and more than capable of enjoying her life alone, but she discovers love on her own terms.
I enjoyed escaping onto the high seas and discovering that life can begin again at 50.
September 28, 2022
Jennifer Bohnet has fast become one of my favourite authors, in part because her main characters are always older women, often looking for a fresh start in some way later in life. Making Waves at River View Cottage, which was previously published in 2003 as Call of the Sea, and has been given an update and has been republished on 21st September 2022.
I loved the sailing world that this story was set in, and found that the scenes depicting the solo yacht race around the world were both vivid and exhilarating. I particularly enjoyed the journal entries made by Polly during the race while she was in challenging waters with no other yachts in sight.
Cassie as a character was wonderful, caring but had effectively put her life on hold. She had been a young widow who had her children to focus on following the death of her husband shortly after the birth of her youngest, Polly. Now that her son Tom is married and expecting his first child, and Polly is heading around the world, it gives Cassie the time to think about what she wants from her life. Factor in two attentive and eligible men and it leads her to a very confusing time to work through.
I felt completely immersed in the sailing storyline, as well as the coastal life in such an idyllic part of the country. It made me yearn for the open seas!
This wonderful engagingly-written novel, set in Devon, is about family, life challenges, moving on, and second chances at love.
I loved the sailing world that this story was set in, and found that the scenes depicting the solo yacht race around the world were both vivid and exhilarating. I particularly enjoyed the journal entries made by Polly during the race while she was in challenging waters with no other yachts in sight.
Cassie as a character was wonderful, caring but had effectively put her life on hold. She had been a young widow who had her children to focus on following the death of her husband shortly after the birth of her youngest, Polly. Now that her son Tom is married and expecting his first child, and Polly is heading around the world, it gives Cassie the time to think about what she wants from her life. Factor in two attentive and eligible men and it leads her to a very confusing time to work through.
I felt completely immersed in the sailing storyline, as well as the coastal life in such an idyllic part of the country. It made me yearn for the open seas!
This wonderful engagingly-written novel, set in Devon, is about family, life challenges, moving on, and second chances at love.
September 22, 2022
Cassie Lewis, a widow of twenty or so years, is at a cross roads in her life, she is about to turn 50 and with her two children, Tom and Polly grown up she wonders at the direction of her life. The family boat yard in Dartmouth and the Lewis family's love of sailing, and the sea, plays a huge part in the story especially when, after a terrible accident, Polly volunteers to take her brother's place in a gruelling round the world boat race. When the race gets underway the Lewis family watch anxiously as Polly undertakes her lone voyage and Cassie is surprised to be supported by not one but two eligible suitors who are each vying for Cassie's affection.
As always this clever author gets right into the heart of the story and brings her characters to life in such a lovely heart-warming way. I loved Cassie from the start and welcomed her presence throughout the story and yet I was equally fascinated by nineteen year-old Polly whose stoicism and bravery as she takes on a gruelling personal challenge, is admirable. I know absolutely nothing about the sea, or sailing, but that didn't matter at all as the author gives just the right amount of detail without overloading the story with too many sailing facts.
Making Waves at River View Cottage is a lovely, heartwarming story about love, loss, family, and going forward in life, taking on new challenges and making the most of every day.
As always this clever author gets right into the heart of the story and brings her characters to life in such a lovely heart-warming way. I loved Cassie from the start and welcomed her presence throughout the story and yet I was equally fascinated by nineteen year-old Polly whose stoicism and bravery as she takes on a gruelling personal challenge, is admirable. I know absolutely nothing about the sea, or sailing, but that didn't matter at all as the author gives just the right amount of detail without overloading the story with too many sailing facts.
Making Waves at River View Cottage is a lovely, heartwarming story about love, loss, family, and going forward in life, taking on new challenges and making the most of every day.
September 27, 2022
I very much enjoyed this read. The action alternated between life at home and on the round the world race. Storylines were centred around different generations in the same family which was a good contrast. Cassie has spent years hiding from life in many ways and through the story, you see her beginning to venture out of her comfort zone. Grief and loss have enveloped her although you sense that her family have wanted her to have more self belief. Tom and Polly are close siblings but the circumstances of the race create a few issues, especially for Tom. It is Polly who gets the opportunity to really prove herself but in doing so she discovers what she really wants for her future.
This is a heartwarming story, with highs and lows which really grabs the interest. The setting on the coast makes it a great summer read and I particularly liked the extracts from Polly's journal which gave you an insight into how she was actually coping with the challenging race.
In short a skilful blending of storylines within a feelgood read
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
This is a heartwarming story, with highs and lows which really grabs the interest. The setting on the coast makes it a great summer read and I particularly liked the extracts from Polly's journal which gave you an insight into how she was actually coping with the challenging race.
In short a skilful blending of storylines within a feelgood read
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
September 19, 2022
As her fiftieth birthday draws near
Cassie Lewis decides something is clear,
She has brought up her children and now is her time
Not making the most of her future would be a crime!
Tom and Polly are Cassie's children who
Like their Dad, are competitive sailors, too.
Get ready for plans round the world to solo sail,
Whatever happens, they hope not to fail.
A cruel accident, a burglary and a fire,
And two suitors who they can't help but admire.
There are choices to make, and fears to face
Alongside competing in a gruelling race.
This is a heartwarming read about decisions to make
Deciding what route your life should take,
With friendships, family and romance, too,
Being key to everything all the way through.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
Cassie Lewis decides something is clear,
She has brought up her children and now is her time
Not making the most of her future would be a crime!
Tom and Polly are Cassie's children who
Like their Dad, are competitive sailors, too.
Get ready for plans round the world to solo sail,
Whatever happens, they hope not to fail.
A cruel accident, a burglary and a fire,
And two suitors who they can't help but admire.
There are choices to make, and fears to face
Alongside competing in a gruelling race.
This is a heartwarming read about decisions to make
Deciding what route your life should take,
With friendships, family and romance, too,
Being key to everything all the way through.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
September 21, 2022
This romance story was akin to a perfect day sailing on mostly calm waters with a pleasant breeze blowing in your face. There was a peaceful feeling to the writing as the story of Cassie and the round the world race unfolds. The pace was steady and a little predictable in some ways, but it was delightful. It was nice to have a main character as a relatable older woman with grown children. She was a gentle character, much like the whole of this book.
“Believe me, my young friend, there is NOTHING – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats” Wind in the Willows
The setting was romantic and atmospheric which added to the appeal of the story. This was about sail boats and very interesting in that respect. The round the world race takes up part of the story and relates to Polly, Cassie's daughter. Polly is a wonderful character, strong, independent and trying to find her place in the world. I found that it was this part of the story that intrigued me more than the main story.
To wrap up this is a delightful, lighthearted romance. The writing flows and the story is sweet, if some what predictable. It would appeal to those more mature romance readers and especially those who are keen sailors.
“Believe me, my young friend, there is NOTHING – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats” Wind in the Willows
The setting was romantic and atmospheric which added to the appeal of the story. This was about sail boats and very interesting in that respect. The round the world race takes up part of the story and relates to Polly, Cassie's daughter. Polly is a wonderful character, strong, independent and trying to find her place in the world. I found that it was this part of the story that intrigued me more than the main story.
To wrap up this is a delightful, lighthearted romance. The writing flows and the story is sweet, if some what predictable. It would appeal to those more mature romance readers and especially those who are keen sailors.
September 24, 2022
Making Waves at River View Cottage by Jennifer Bohnet
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Cassie Lewis, a widow for over 20 years has begun to realise there must be more to life.
In-between working at the family boatyard in picture perfect Dartmouth and raising two children, she wonders where the years have gone.
Both her children, Tom and Polly, have inherited their father’s love of sailing and currently Tom is preparing for a gruelling round the world race. When an accident forces Tom to pull out, Polly, to Cassie’s horror, insists she is capable of taking his place.
As Polly prepares for the race, Cassie unexpectedly finds herself with two keen and eligible men vying for her love.
My Opinion
This book is a rerelease.
This is enjoyable read and I finished this within hours. This would make for a great holiday read, but for me it worked really well as a nice relaxing book after a stressful day at work. This is an emotional, family-orientated novel with a detailed plot. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and would love to be able to catch up with them again.
Rating: 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Cassie Lewis, a widow for over 20 years has begun to realise there must be more to life.
In-between working at the family boatyard in picture perfect Dartmouth and raising two children, she wonders where the years have gone.
Both her children, Tom and Polly, have inherited their father’s love of sailing and currently Tom is preparing for a gruelling round the world race. When an accident forces Tom to pull out, Polly, to Cassie’s horror, insists she is capable of taking his place.
As Polly prepares for the race, Cassie unexpectedly finds herself with two keen and eligible men vying for her love.
My Opinion
This book is a rerelease.
This is enjoyable read and I finished this within hours. This would make for a great holiday read, but for me it worked really well as a nice relaxing book after a stressful day at work. This is an emotional, family-orientated novel with a detailed plot. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and would love to be able to catch up with them again.
Rating: 4/5
September 16, 2022
As a person who has spent many happy hours on the ocean sailing with my father, so much of what was written in this book resonated with me. I am also a woman of a "certain age" with grown children. Trying to balance my own needs with the demands of their lives, can be challenging.
Cassie has been a widow for over 20 years. She loved her husband, Miles, fiercely and when he was taken away from her so soon, she got stuck in and raised her children. Now, with the big 5-0 looming large, Cassie needs to decide what is important to HER. She suddenly has not just one but TWO men who are interested in her.
She also has two grown children who are wanting to do risky things she really doesn't want them doing. Polly and Tom are great kids though.
A really nice read. Nothing too deep but a good way to while away a few hours.
4 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Cassie has been a widow for over 20 years. She loved her husband, Miles, fiercely and when he was taken away from her so soon, she got stuck in and raised her children. Now, with the big 5-0 looming large, Cassie needs to decide what is important to HER. She suddenly has not just one but TWO men who are interested in her.
She also has two grown children who are wanting to do risky things she really doesn't want them doing. Polly and Tom are great kids though.
A really nice read. Nothing too deep but a good way to while away a few hours.
4 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
September 21, 2025
It's been over 20 years since her husband passed away. Cassie is running a boatyard and keeping up with her two children have given her plenty to do but she's had a reawakening and feels like it's time to start devoting some time to herself now that her fiftieth birthday is right around the corner.
Both of her children have inherited their father's love of sailing and Tom is about to do one last sailing race around the world before retiring from sailing and welcoming his first child.
Before that can happen, a freak accident sidelines him and he's unable to compete. Polly, his sister insists on taking over the racing though she's less experienced.
We see some highs and lows in the story that can be a bit emotional at times.
Fun relaxation read. I love how the author turns ordinary characters into ones you'd enjoy spending time with as they sound so relatable.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Both of her children have inherited their father's love of sailing and Tom is about to do one last sailing race around the world before retiring from sailing and welcoming his first child.
Before that can happen, a freak accident sidelines him and he's unable to compete. Polly, his sister insists on taking over the racing though she's less experienced.
We see some highs and lows in the story that can be a bit emotional at times.
Fun relaxation read. I love how the author turns ordinary characters into ones you'd enjoy spending time with as they sound so relatable.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2022
I am a massive fan of books by Jennifer Bohnet and this story is a previous release that was originally known as Call of the Sea and I jumped at the chance to read one that I hadn't previously read.
We meet the lovely Cassie and her family from the offset as her son Tom is preparing to finish his competitive sailing career with a round the world boat race. I found that I got to know the family and their back story early on and you could see the love of sailing in the family.
I absolutely loved this emotional story as we experienced the highs and lows with Cassie during the boat race and the old feelings that surface whilst she contemplates a new romance. The perfect story to pick up on a rainy day and curl up and lose yourself in.
We meet the lovely Cassie and her family from the offset as her son Tom is preparing to finish his competitive sailing career with a round the world boat race. I found that I got to know the family and their back story early on and you could see the love of sailing in the family.
I absolutely loved this emotional story as we experienced the highs and lows with Cassie during the boat race and the old feelings that surface whilst she contemplates a new romance. The perfect story to pick up on a rainy day and curl up and lose yourself in.
October 28, 2022
Cassie lost her husband twenty years ago in an accident during a boat race around the world. Now her daughter Polly is competing in the same race and Cassie is terrified. Luckily she has her family and friends to help her get through the stress and worries of the race.
I really enjoyed reading this book! There were several tense and tender moments as the characters struggled with their emotions and trials in life. I liked the love stories between Cassie and James and Polly and Dexter. It really illustrated the different stages of love. I also liked how close the family was and how they worked together during difficult times. It added to the coziness of the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I really enjoyed reading this book! There were several tense and tender moments as the characters struggled with their emotions and trials in life. I liked the love stories between Cassie and James and Polly and Dexter. It really illustrated the different stages of love. I also liked how close the family was and how they worked together during difficult times. It added to the coziness of the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 4, 2022
This was my
First book by this author and won’t be my last and always lovely to find a new author.
This was the perfect cosy escapism read with a fabulous storyline loved how the sailing and the locations all fitted seamlessly into the back drop off the story and how it focused on overcoming adversity, love and loss and of achieving your dreams and how anything is possible with friendship family and the right people beside you.
I read this in almost one sitting as once I had started reading I couldn’t put it down
I would love a sequel to this to see how the future pans out for
Cassie and James and for polly and Dexter.
First book by this author and won’t be my last and always lovely to find a new author.
This was the perfect cosy escapism read with a fabulous storyline loved how the sailing and the locations all fitted seamlessly into the back drop off the story and how it focused on overcoming adversity, love and loss and of achieving your dreams and how anything is possible with friendship family and the right people beside you.
I read this in almost one sitting as once I had started reading I couldn’t put it down
I would love a sequel to this to see how the future pans out for
Cassie and James and for polly and Dexter.
August 21, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
You can’t read one of this author’s books without smiling. The characters are always likeable and the stories sweet. This book centres around Cassie, a widow with two grown children, Tom and Polly. Although Cassie lost her husband to a sailing incident, she has encouraged and stood behind her children who both love sailing and the sea. This was a heartwarming story about a woman realizing that having your own life is okay and that life does go on. Also as stated, this book left me smiling.
You can’t read one of this author’s books without smiling. The characters are always likeable and the stories sweet. This book centres around Cassie, a widow with two grown children, Tom and Polly. Although Cassie lost her husband to a sailing incident, she has encouraged and stood behind her children who both love sailing and the sea. This was a heartwarming story about a woman realizing that having your own life is okay and that life does go on. Also as stated, this book left me smiling.
September 20, 2022
20 years ago Cassie lost her husband in a sailing accident. Unfortunately for her both of her children have inherited his love for sailing. Her oldest son Tom is preparing to set off on a round the world sailing race but has an unfortunate accident breaking both his legs so it looks to Cassie's relief that the race is off.
Polly who is 19 and also inherited her dad's love if sailing has other ideas and wants to take Tom's place if the sponsors will allow it. Despite being scared something will happen to her Cassie reluctantly agrees
Releasing her family are moving on with their own lives Cassie who is about to reach 50 starts to wonder if she should be finding herself and moving forward
Polly who is 19 and also inherited her dad's love if sailing has other ideas and wants to take Tom's place if the sponsors will allow it. Despite being scared something will happen to her Cassie reluctantly agrees
Releasing her family are moving on with their own lives Cassie who is about to reach 50 starts to wonder if she should be finding herself and moving forward
September 21, 2022
Cassie, at nearly fifty, has never gotten over her husband's tragic death and has dedicated the twenty years since his loss at sea to their children and the family boatyard. Both Tom and Polly love sailing, which Cassie finds stressful but understandable.
I know nothing about sailing, but I am familiar with Dartmouth, the setting for this emotional family-orientated novel. The detailed and flowing plot makes this addictive reading with action, conflict, friendship and romance interwoven into this tale.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The family and friendship bonds are believable, and the ending positive and fulfilling.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I know nothing about sailing, but I am familiar with Dartmouth, the setting for this emotional family-orientated novel. The detailed and flowing plot makes this addictive reading with action, conflict, friendship and romance interwoven into this tale.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The family and friendship bonds are believable, and the ending positive and fulfilling.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
March 15, 2023
Family ties
Another enjoyable read from the pen of Jennifer Bohnet. I cannot get enough of her novels and like the others this was very hard to put down. Mother and daughter Cassie and Polly live with her father Bill and her son Tom at a boatyard. Tom sails on yachts for competitions but now he's laid up and Polly is keen to take his place in a round the world yacht race in memory of her late father much to her boyfriend Sebastian's disgust however she's determined despite what anyone says. Her brothers mate is also keen on her and Cassie is finally shaking off her time of grief and keen to socialise again......
Another enjoyable read from the pen of Jennifer Bohnet. I cannot get enough of her novels and like the others this was very hard to put down. Mother and daughter Cassie and Polly live with her father Bill and her son Tom at a boatyard. Tom sails on yachts for competitions but now he's laid up and Polly is keen to take his place in a round the world yacht race in memory of her late father much to her boyfriend Sebastian's disgust however she's determined despite what anyone says. Her brothers mate is also keen on her and Cassie is finally shaking off her time of grief and keen to socialise again......
April 28, 2023
I so enjoy Jennifer's books I lose myself in the story mostly in France, but this one is in England Dartmouth. Cassie's life is around her children Tom and Polly, and the family business sailing. Tom has been sailing in races and Polly sails as well, all is OK until Tom takes a tumble on a boat and cannot compete in the up and coming solo race when Polly volunteers to take his place. Follow Cassie close friendship with James and Doug and the birth of her first grandchild and learning to live again after losing her late husband Miles.
July 30, 2025
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I was able to find the audio version through my local library. I have read many books from this author and I always enjoy her novels so much. If you are looking for a lighthearted novel about a adult female finding herself, you will love this novel and all of her other novels. Her stories are always cozy and easy to read. Highly recommend!
March 7, 2023
Good story
If you like sailing, you will really like this book. I've never sailed but I still enjoyed it. No way I would go out on a boat by myself for weeks at time but I admire the folks that can and do that. All the loose ends were tied up at the end - maybe a little too perfectly?
If you like sailing, you will really like this book. I've never sailed but I still enjoyed it. No way I would go out on a boat by myself for weeks at time but I admire the folks that can and do that. All the loose ends were tied up at the end - maybe a little too perfectly?
April 23, 2023
Making Waves At River View Cottage
I love this book. Very well written. Jennifer made it known when speakers or topics changed. Very good content. I learned so much about sailing. I felt like I was there with Polly. I especially felt tense during her rescue mission. The story is wonderful & I love that I get so immersed in the story. It's a new adventure for me.
I love this book. Very well written. Jennifer made it known when speakers or topics changed. Very good content. I learned so much about sailing. I felt like I was there with Polly. I especially felt tense during her rescue mission. The story is wonderful & I love that I get so immersed in the story. It's a new adventure for me.
August 3, 2023
Cassie and her family run a boatyard on the river. Tom is planning to sail in a round the world race. He has an accident and his 19 year old sister Polly take his place in the new boat.
Meanwhile mom Cassie is seeing James and also a new man Doug.
Very interesting info on sailing and round the world races.
There are hints for a sequel with Polly's career as a racer and her love life
Meanwhile mom Cassie is seeing James and also a new man Doug.
Very interesting info on sailing and round the world races.
There are hints for a sequel with Polly's career as a racer and her love life
August 4, 2022
A sweet family story based around sailing and the sea. We follow Cassie, widowed 20 years ago when her husband died in a sailing accident, and her two children. A good story about love and family.
Full disclosure- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Full disclosure- I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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