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Sunshine Bay #1
Summer on Sunshine Bay
Welcome to Sunshine Bay, where the joys of summer last all year round.
Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns to Sunshine Bay a bundle of nerves. After being gone for years, sharing the news that she’s engaged—to a man her mother has never met—is going to be difficult to navigate. But when her fiancé David surprises her with an engagement party at Windemere, the upscale inn his parents recently purchased and that just may put her family’s restaurant, La Dolce Vita, out of business, Lila’s got a whole new set of problems.
Eva Rosetti is so ecstatic to finally have her daughter home that she pushes aside her misgivings about having to come face-to-face with Lila’s father again. That is until he sweeps into town and feelings Eva thought far behind her resurface....
With a family business to save and a wedding to plan, Eva and Lila’s reunion is more than either bargained for, but with a little luck and a whole lot of support from friends and family, it may just turn out to be the best summer of their lives.
Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns to Sunshine Bay a bundle of nerves. After being gone for years, sharing the news that she’s engaged—to a man her mother has never met—is going to be difficult to navigate. But when her fiancé David surprises her with an engagement party at Windemere, the upscale inn his parents recently purchased and that just may put her family’s restaurant, La Dolce Vita, out of business, Lila’s got a whole new set of problems.
Eva Rosetti is so ecstatic to finally have her daughter home that she pushes aside her misgivings about having to come face-to-face with Lila’s father again. That is until he sweeps into town and feelings Eva thought far behind her resurface....
With a family business to save and a wedding to plan, Eva and Lila’s reunion is more than either bargained for, but with a little luck and a whole lot of support from friends and family, it may just turn out to be the best summer of their lives.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 23, 2023
101 people are currently reading
4454 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Mason
38 books1,698 followersDebbie Mason is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series and the Harmony Harbor series. The first book in her Christmas, Colorado series, “The Trouble with Christmas,” was the inspiration for Hallmark’s “Welcome to Christmas.” Her books have been praised by RT Book Reviews for their “likable characters, clever dialogue, and juicy plots.” When Debbie isn’t writing, she enjoys spending time with her family in Ottawa, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
May 29, 2023
Summer on Sunshine Bay by Debbie Mason
Contemporary romance. Multigenerational family.
Lila is surprised with a trip to Sunshine Bay by her fiancé. He has been hired to manage a new resort restaurant in the community which is in direct competition with her family restaurant. Lila’s family is happy to have her home but because of a marriage curse, will try to sabotage the massive wedding that’s planned in just a few short weeks.
Multiple romances bloom and grow in this story across generations. It’s sweet. There are a lot of secondary characters but all are important to the various storylines that lightly branch from the main line.
So much can be said about family and how they all interact. This is primarily strong women focused with women supporting each other.
Lovely.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary romance. Multigenerational family.
Lila is surprised with a trip to Sunshine Bay by her fiancé. He has been hired to manage a new resort restaurant in the community which is in direct competition with her family restaurant. Lila’s family is happy to have her home but because of a marriage curse, will try to sabotage the massive wedding that’s planned in just a few short weeks.
Multiple romances bloom and grow in this story across generations. It’s sweet. There are a lot of secondary characters but all are important to the various storylines that lightly branch from the main line.
So much can be said about family and how they all interact. This is primarily strong women focused with women supporting each other.
Lovely.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
October 6, 2024
Review coming soon.
May 27, 2023
I don’t know what I was expecting when I picked Summer on Sunshine Bay to read but I wasn’t expecting a family drama that led to a divorce, a break-up, and a couple of romances thrown in for good measure. At times I felt there were too many characters in this story and trying to keep them straight was a chore and every time I had to figure out who was who it took me out of the story. That said, it wasn’t a bad book; it had its moments and at times was funny and other times poignant but there were a few eye rolling moments for me as well.
Engaged and expecting a baby with a man her mom, grandmother, aunt, and cousins know nothing about, Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns to Sunshine Bay where she was raised by her mother. Arriving she is hit with the information that her fiancé’s father is owner of Windemere, a hotel and resort with a restaurant that is hurting her family’s three generations owned restaurant. On top of that her fiancé David, surprises her with a dinner at Windermere with her father and his parents, and the information that her soon to be mother in law has planned their wedding to all take place at the new resort. Right off I wasn’t happy with the fact David kept a lot of secrets from her and disregarded her feelings and with no input from her family. Not to mention that he and his mother both kowtow to his father’s every wish. They are both in Sunshine Bay because Lila’s father, James, sold his hotel business and that left them without jobs and David is there to manage the resort. Lila has not broken the news to her family about her engagement because of the Rosetti curse in which every man that marries a Rosetti woman either dies or divorces her quickly (I’ll be honest, I found this storyline a bit ridiculous and over blown.)
Throughout this story Eva, Lila’s mom, is trying to make her see that she really doesn’t want to marry David because of the curse but honestly she shouldn’t want to because he never makes Lila a priority, not once in this story. In the meantime Eva and James rekindle a friendship that becomes more despite Lila’s worry that her dad will get his heartbroken. Then there is Lila who resumes a friendship with Luke someone she knew as a child and teen, and she begins to realize that what she feels towards David is nothing like she feels around Luke. On top of that David seems to be enthralled with a waitress that left La Dolce Vida, the Rosetti’s restaurant, to work at Windemere. I’m not even getting into the drama with Lila’s grandmother, her cousins, or David’s mom Jennifer because there’s drama surrounding them as well.
I didn’t find any of these characters very likeable, well maybe James, Lila’s dad, and Luke. I found the relationship situations to be a bit much (again way too many characters with too much going on) and at times this book seemed to drag on and on.
I enjoyed this book, but it wasn’t one that I loved and will gush about. It was a good way to pass a few hours and I’m not sorry I read it but I’m not sure if this author’s style and my reading tastes mesh.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Engaged and expecting a baby with a man her mom, grandmother, aunt, and cousins know nothing about, Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns to Sunshine Bay where she was raised by her mother. Arriving she is hit with the information that her fiancé’s father is owner of Windemere, a hotel and resort with a restaurant that is hurting her family’s three generations owned restaurant. On top of that her fiancé David, surprises her with a dinner at Windermere with her father and his parents, and the information that her soon to be mother in law has planned their wedding to all take place at the new resort. Right off I wasn’t happy with the fact David kept a lot of secrets from her and disregarded her feelings and with no input from her family. Not to mention that he and his mother both kowtow to his father’s every wish. They are both in Sunshine Bay because Lila’s father, James, sold his hotel business and that left them without jobs and David is there to manage the resort. Lila has not broken the news to her family about her engagement because of the Rosetti curse in which every man that marries a Rosetti woman either dies or divorces her quickly (I’ll be honest, I found this storyline a bit ridiculous and over blown.)
Throughout this story Eva, Lila’s mom, is trying to make her see that she really doesn’t want to marry David because of the curse but honestly she shouldn’t want to because he never makes Lila a priority, not once in this story. In the meantime Eva and James rekindle a friendship that becomes more despite Lila’s worry that her dad will get his heartbroken. Then there is Lila who resumes a friendship with Luke someone she knew as a child and teen, and she begins to realize that what she feels towards David is nothing like she feels around Luke. On top of that David seems to be enthralled with a waitress that left La Dolce Vida, the Rosetti’s restaurant, to work at Windemere. I’m not even getting into the drama with Lila’s grandmother, her cousins, or David’s mom Jennifer because there’s drama surrounding them as well.
I didn’t find any of these characters very likeable, well maybe James, Lila’s dad, and Luke. I found the relationship situations to be a bit much (again way too many characters with too much going on) and at times this book seemed to drag on and on.
I enjoyed this book, but it wasn’t one that I loved and will gush about. It was a good way to pass a few hours and I’m not sorry I read it but I’m not sure if this author’s style and my reading tastes mesh.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
This wonderful book is emotional and complex. There’s a lot going on, in a very good way. There are family entanglements, plenty of misunderstandings, confusion, good intentions, and questioning. The bottom line in all of this is love - love of family, love between parent and child, romantic love, and good friends. And it’s about the courage that is sometimes necessary to embrace that love. Debbie Mason did a great job of making me feel like I was part of that family, feeling all the hurt and affection and emotion. I loved it and am very excited to read more about this boisterous, warm-hearted, and complicated family in Sunshine Bay!
May 22, 2023
Lila is returning home after being gone for years hoping that news of her engagement will not bring unhappiness to her family. Things don't go as planned though when her fiance shocks her with an engagement party at Windemere, the new rival to her families restaurant. Her mom is happy to have her daughter home but isn't happy that her ex has also come to town. The two can't seem to get alonf but hope to put their differences aside for their daughter. Lila is worried about her families restaurant and wants to help save it but also has to spend time planning her wedding which no one seems happy about. There is also a secret that she has been keeping from her family. Follow along to see if Lila can find happiness in this move she has made and if her family will survive the fallout it has brung.
April 20, 2023
Lila is engaged to David and she is returning to her hometown. She hasn't told her mother and other family members about the engagement. Her family the Rosetti's don't get married! The family seems to have a curse on getting married. Davids's father has opened a restaurant that is direct competition with her family's restaurant.
It seems David's mother has a wedding already planned and invites sent out when Lila and David meet them for dinner at the new restaurant. Lila feels like she has to marry David; but she doesn't really feel in love with him.
Eva is Lila's mother and is so happy she has returned to her hometown; but Lila's father is also in town. Are the sparks going to fly for Eva also?
I just loved this book; Debbie's books never fail to interest me.
It seems David's mother has a wedding already planned and invites sent out when Lila and David meet them for dinner at the new restaurant. Lila feels like she has to marry David; but she doesn't really feel in love with him.
Eva is Lila's mother and is so happy she has returned to her hometown; but Lila's father is also in town. Are the sparks going to fly for Eva also?
I just loved this book; Debbie's books never fail to interest me.
May 23, 2023
Summer on Sunshine Bay by Debbie Mason is a wonderful, emotional and complex story filled with family entanglements, plenty of misunderstandings, confusion, good intentions, and questioning. The bottom line in all of this is love - love of family, love between parent and child, romantic love, and good friends. And it’s about the courage that is sometimes necessary to embrace that love.
Lila, and her fiancé, David, are heading back to Lila’s hometown of Sunshine Bay to plan a very quick wedding. When they arrive in Sunshine Bay, we are introduced to a truly wonderful cast of characters, from the six strong women of the Rosetti family, who are there for each other no matter what, to David’s parents, to the handsome Luke, older brother of Lila’s high school boyfriend. Lila’s mother Eva and her dad James were never married because of the Rosetti curse. Eva, her mother Carmen and sister Gia run an Italian restaurant and they are about to be run out of business when a fancy restaurant opens down the street from them; which happens to be owned by Lila’s fiancé and his family. Sage and Willow are Gia’s daughters. The three cousins were raised together; taking care of each other. With all of this going on, Lila feels like she has to marry David, though she doesn't really feel in love with him.
To add to the drama in the wedding plans, Lila runs into the handsome Luke and spends time with him, James comes back for the wedding and Eva is happy but scared as the spark fly. David, the groom, gets cozy with Sam the waitress, Carmen is upset because her love is engaged to someone else, and the cousins don’t want Lila to marry David. Then there’s the help these six women gave David’s mom, Jennifer, to help her see the light in her marriage.
Ms. Mason wrote a beautifully written, emotional and complex story dealing with some complex issues. It is a story of love, not only the romantic love but love of your family and friends. It deals with family drama and all the confusion and misunderstandings that go with it. It is fast paced with some very wonderful characters to fall in love with. The descriptions will make you feel welcomed in Sunshine Bay, wishing you were a part of that family, feeling all the hurt and affection and emotion. I loved it and am very excited to read more about this boisterous, warm-hearted, and complicated family in Sunshine Bay. I highly recommend Summer on Sunshine Bay to other readers; a must read for the beach this summer.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Lila, and her fiancé, David, are heading back to Lila’s hometown of Sunshine Bay to plan a very quick wedding. When they arrive in Sunshine Bay, we are introduced to a truly wonderful cast of characters, from the six strong women of the Rosetti family, who are there for each other no matter what, to David’s parents, to the handsome Luke, older brother of Lila’s high school boyfriend. Lila’s mother Eva and her dad James were never married because of the Rosetti curse. Eva, her mother Carmen and sister Gia run an Italian restaurant and they are about to be run out of business when a fancy restaurant opens down the street from them; which happens to be owned by Lila’s fiancé and his family. Sage and Willow are Gia’s daughters. The three cousins were raised together; taking care of each other. With all of this going on, Lila feels like she has to marry David, though she doesn't really feel in love with him.
To add to the drama in the wedding plans, Lila runs into the handsome Luke and spends time with him, James comes back for the wedding and Eva is happy but scared as the spark fly. David, the groom, gets cozy with Sam the waitress, Carmen is upset because her love is engaged to someone else, and the cousins don’t want Lila to marry David. Then there’s the help these six women gave David’s mom, Jennifer, to help her see the light in her marriage.
Ms. Mason wrote a beautifully written, emotional and complex story dealing with some complex issues. It is a story of love, not only the romantic love but love of your family and friends. It deals with family drama and all the confusion and misunderstandings that go with it. It is fast paced with some very wonderful characters to fall in love with. The descriptions will make you feel welcomed in Sunshine Bay, wishing you were a part of that family, feeling all the hurt and affection and emotion. I loved it and am very excited to read more about this boisterous, warm-hearted, and complicated family in Sunshine Bay. I highly recommend Summer on Sunshine Bay to other readers; a must read for the beach this summer.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 30, 2024
This book is a little all over the place for me. I thought it was going to be a singular romance but instead it reads as women’s fiction. The primary focus is on Lila Rosetti Sinclair as she returns home to Sunshine Bay on Cape Cod. Her fiancee starts off not looking good as he has manipulated her homecoming and changed all their wedding and living plans. That wasn’t a great start for me and it isn’t meant to be. Once surrounded by her mother, aunt, nonna and beloved cousins the story really focuses on family and relationships. David is tasked by his over bearing father to run the new Inn Windemere but its restaurant is in direction competition to Lila’s three generation restaurant. There is also a second chance romance between Lila’s mom Eva and her father who never married.
This can be considered a light beach read as there are antics with family and reconnections. But I really dislike the lack of communication with LIla and David. She has time to renew friendships, start a business, but not sit down with him to figure out if the two (he's too busy) really even want to be married. And I really didn’t love the cheating overtones.
The story is kept to kissing only with one fade to black scene. I wish I found the story as light and fun and the cute cover. But to each their own and I can see others enjoyed it more than I did. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
This can be considered a light beach read as there are antics with family and reconnections. But I really dislike the lack of communication with LIla and David. She has time to renew friendships, start a business, but not sit down with him to figure out if the two (he's too busy) really even want to be married. And I really didn’t love the cheating overtones.
The story is kept to kissing only with one fade to black scene. I wish I found the story as light and fun and the cute cover. But to each their own and I can see others enjoyed it more than I did. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
August 9, 2023
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
Perfect 2023 beach read! I adore Debbie Mason's books. Summer on Sunshine Bay follows a family of Italian women (eccentric Italian women!) who are "cursed" from the "happy ever after love." The youngest female member of the family, Lila Rosetti, finds herself expecting and engaged to David. There are some huge differences between David's family and Lila's- his dad is the epitome of the type of man the Rosetti women despise. Throughout the book there is a plot led by Lila's mother to sabotage her and David's relationship. This book is full of crazy ploys and all kids of other shenanigans the women get up to. Overall, Summer on Sunshine Bay is a book about family, love, and trust. It has LOL parts as well as the swoon worthy romance with the perfect amount of family and friendship- which I think makes this the perfect beach or summer vacation read!
Perfect 2023 beach read! I adore Debbie Mason's books. Summer on Sunshine Bay follows a family of Italian women (eccentric Italian women!) who are "cursed" from the "happy ever after love." The youngest female member of the family, Lila Rosetti, finds herself expecting and engaged to David. There are some huge differences between David's family and Lila's- his dad is the epitome of the type of man the Rosetti women despise. Throughout the book there is a plot led by Lila's mother to sabotage her and David's relationship. This book is full of crazy ploys and all kids of other shenanigans the women get up to. Overall, Summer on Sunshine Bay is a book about family, love, and trust. It has LOL parts as well as the swoon worthy romance with the perfect amount of family and friendship- which I think makes this the perfect beach or summer vacation read!
May 22, 2023
I really liked this book.Family dynamics are often really hard.Especially when there’s a upcoming marriage involved.Trying to merge two sets of parents isn’t always easy either.
Lila’s engaged and her mother is strongly against marriage.Lila’s fiancé’s parents own a fancy inn that is very possibly putting her family’s restaurant out of business.Her fiancé’s dad is overbearing and belittles his wife. I definitely wouldn’t want to be in Lila’s shoes trying to decide if love is enough to get married to David.
Please read this book to figure out if Lila marries David or if she decides the competition from his family’s inn is too much drama and heartache for her to see her mother go through and calls off the wedding. I’m almost 53 and I was better at standing up to my mom in my teens than I am now. I definitely understand how Lila feels like her mom has too much control over her life.
Lila’s engaged and her mother is strongly against marriage.Lila’s fiancé’s parents own a fancy inn that is very possibly putting her family’s restaurant out of business.Her fiancé’s dad is overbearing and belittles his wife. I definitely wouldn’t want to be in Lila’s shoes trying to decide if love is enough to get married to David.
Please read this book to figure out if Lila marries David or if she decides the competition from his family’s inn is too much drama and heartache for her to see her mother go through and calls off the wedding. I’m almost 53 and I was better at standing up to my mom in my teens than I am now. I definitely understand how Lila feels like her mom has too much control over her life.
May 21, 2023
Fun, cute book!
When Lila discovers that she and David are pregnant, of course he proposes and she accepts, normal, right? Except due to the infamous Rossetti curse, none of Lila’s female relatives have happily married! Lila is going to be the first, and she is dreading telling the family.
David has his own issues, mostly around his father who is very controlling and emotionally abusive. He recently purchased a property in Sunshine Bay that will directly compete with Lila’s family business. Sounds like a setup for trouble!
I liked the book, it moved along nicely. Lots of family drama on both sides, along with a healthy dose of emotional baggage from the past. Some of it was a bit far-fetched but not so much to spoil the story.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
When Lila discovers that she and David are pregnant, of course he proposes and she accepts, normal, right? Except due to the infamous Rossetti curse, none of Lila’s female relatives have happily married! Lila is going to be the first, and she is dreading telling the family.
David has his own issues, mostly around his father who is very controlling and emotionally abusive. He recently purchased a property in Sunshine Bay that will directly compete with Lila’s family business. Sounds like a setup for trouble!
I liked the book, it moved along nicely. Lots of family drama on both sides, along with a healthy dose of emotional baggage from the past. Some of it was a bit far-fetched but not so much to spoil the story.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
November 8, 2023
What makes this book truly shine is the sense of community and support that permeates throughout the story. From loyal friends to eccentric locals, the residents of Sunshine Bay rally together to help Lila and Eva navigate their challenges, resulting in heartwarming moments that will leave readers feeling uplifted.
March 12, 2023
Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Lila has been gone from home for several years. She is excited to tell them she is engaged and is hoping they will like her fiance. Lila's family business is not doing well and she is hoping she can change that. This book was a quick read.
May 20, 2023
Absolutely wonderful story . I loved it so much This one could be a hallmark movie.
My first book I read by this author I felt the same way..
Her books are absolutely magical.
You just want to crawl inside the story and be part of everything that's going on.
Her stories never disappoint..
My first book I read by this author I felt the same way..
Her books are absolutely magical.
You just want to crawl inside the story and be part of everything that's going on.
Her stories never disappoint..
March 22, 2023
Wow, this was just an absolute delight. Our main character, Lila, and her fiancé, David, are heading back to Lila’s hometown of Sunshine Bay to plan a very quick wedding. When they get to Sunshine Bay, we are introduced to a truly wonderful cast of characters, from the strong women of the Rosetti family (and their marriage curse) to David’s parents to the devastatingly handsome Luke, older brother of Lila’s high school boyfriend. This book was such a quick read, and I found myself sucked into this world. Was it predictable? Yes, but it doesn’t make it any less endearing. I loved learning about the Rosetti women (aka The Heartbreakers) and seeing the growth in each one. This is the perfect summer read, and I loved it so much.
Thank you to Debbie Mason, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review. This book is due to be published on May 23, 2023.
Thank you to Debbie Mason, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review. This book is due to be published on May 23, 2023.
May 16, 2023
Really enjoyed this story and hope its the beginning of a series. Really like Lila and her mother.
April 16, 2023
I have learned that any time I want to read a really good book that will keep you involved from the beginning to the end, just pick up a book by Debbie Mason and you won't be sorry.
She writes amazing stories with good storylines. I just can't put her books down.
She writes amazing stories with good storylines. I just can't put her books down.
May 17, 2023
Debbie Mason has given us another fantastic book in Summer on Sunshine Bay. This is a beautifully written and emotional story. It is a complex story and deals with some complex issues. It is a story of love, not only the romantic love but love of your family and friends. It deals with family drama and all the confusion and misunderstandings that go with it. It is fast paced with some very wonderful characters to fall in love with. Debbie Mason’s descriptions will make you feel welcomed on Sunshine Bay. This is a must read for the beach this summer.
Thank you NetGalley, Forever/Grand Central Publishing and Debbie Mason for this terrific book to read and review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#netgalley. #forever/grandcentralpublishing
#debbiemason #arc #sunshinebay. #beachread
Thank you NetGalley, Forever/Grand Central Publishing and Debbie Mason for this terrific book to read and review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#netgalley. #forever/grandcentralpublishing
#debbiemason #arc #sunshinebay. #beachread
July 2, 2023
Every story by Debbie Mason is a good read. Lila's story is not an exception...loved it! You quickly get to know the characters and fall in love with them. Communities that Debbie Mason creates make you want to find them on a map. Sunshine Bay would be a place you would want to stop and stay. I hope there will be more stories from Sunshine Bay!
December 15, 2023
- pure hallmark movie fluff (in fact, according to the back cover, another of the author's novels has already been adapted into a hallmark movie lol)
- it's fine. there are few surprises, you know exactly what's going to happen from about the second sentence, the stakes are so low they're underground
- the writing was just fine. it fit the story. it moved things along at a good clip.
- all in all i will put this down and never think about it again. but at least it didn't make me angry.
**review of a copy that i received via goodreads giveaways**
- it's fine. there are few surprises, you know exactly what's going to happen from about the second sentence, the stakes are so low they're underground
- the writing was just fine. it fit the story. it moved things along at a good clip.
- all in all i will put this down and never think about it again. but at least it didn't make me angry.
**review of a copy that i received via goodreads giveaways**
May 11, 2023
While I love this author, I felt this one fell short for me. I could see the ending coming from the beginning. I didn't really care for the characters (especially the mom). I usually love how Debbie Mason writes series with each book following a different character, but there really weren't any other characters in this book that I'd care to know more about. It might just be me, but this one was a miss.
July 10, 2025
I really struggled with how to review this book. I strive to leave honest and well thought out reviews, but I also understand that someone took a lot of time and love to write their book. I was excited to start my first book by this author knowing that she’s popular for writing Christmas books. I am a sucker for Hallmark like Christmas books but would, unfortunately, not read another book written by her. Her writing just wasn’t for me, though that doesn’t mean she is a bad writer.
I was looking forward to a beachy read with a little drama and a little romance to kick off my summer reading, but I struggled to get through this book. I have a policy about finishing all books I start, but this is the closest I’ve come to DNFing a book. I know by the reviews that she is a beloved author, but after seeing how many books she’s written in a fairly short period of time, I feel like she is turning out quickly written books for the masses. There is nothing wrong with that, but those usually aren’t books I enjoy.
The story starts off with David, our protagonist’s fiance, manipulating her into coming back to her hometown when she wasn’t prepared to do so, nor did she know it was happening. It didn’t get better from there. For starters, the book switches points of view between Lila and her mother Eva. In doing this, we often got the same unnecessary information twice. For example, Eva told us how she had run into and damaged Lila’s father’s car, explaining the damage in detail. In the next chapter, Lila also details the damage. You could have also made a drinking game out of the number of times that the word culo was used, David pushed his glasses up his nose, and the phrase holding court was used.
As other reviewers have mentioned, the characters were hard to keep track of, but it was because of the way they were written. If the author had stuck to just using their names, it would have worked out, but she was constantly switching from her mother, her aunt, Gia, Eva, Zia, Zio, her daughter, Lila, etc. The conversations seemed forced and not at all reminiscent of how people talk. It wasn’t unusual for a character to call another character by their name numerous times during one short conversation. Sometimes, they even called each other by their last names. It was shoved down our throats how hot Luke and James were, because the women couldn’t stop commenting on their sculpted arms or tight butt, repeatedly. For me, it detracted from the story because we already were aware they were attractive. Everyone also had to be overly attractive and not relatable. James was fifty but didn’t look a day over thirty-five. Eva could sing like Celine Dion. It was a little too much.
There were a lot of double standards throughout the book. It wasn’t okay that Eva was trying to break up Lila and David’s wedding because Lila wasn’t in love with him, but we were supposed to be totally okay with Lila keeping her mother and father apart. Also, we were supposed to root for Bruno to break up with Ana to be with Carmen, who had spent twenty years rejecting him. Being Italian and being in menopause were consistently used as excuses for a ton of crappy, immature behavior. There was no accountability for their own actions.
The whole situation with Lila being okay with David kissing Sam was weird. I know she kissed Luke, but to accept David’s excuse that Sam only kissed him to distract him from being afraid of the water was ridiculous. That passage of the book went down too quickly and the reasoning was absolutely wild.
A lot of the storylines were glossed over and felt incomplete. Nothing about James is indicative of him being English. If we weren’t told that he was, you wouldn’t have known. He uses completely American language and phrases, despite being born in England and living there all his life. No attempt was made to write an Englishman. There was one single line where it was said that he would call French fries chips and that was it.
There was also a lot of conflicting information throughout the book. On one page, Lila was talking about taking things slow with Luke and how that was what she needed. A few pages later, she had another man’s baby, and Luke was proposing less than six months after she had ended her engagement. I found a lot of instances in this book where something would be said on one page and contradicted a few pages later. Overall, the story didn’t flow for me and a lot of the writing was slowed down by unnecessary descriptions and repetitive storytelling. I thought the book had a lot of promise, but the characters and their storylines needed fleshed out better.
There were a few things that I did love about the book. Willow was a breath of fresh air, owning her flaws, and felt very real and quirky. Luke was a sweet character, albeit too perfect, but a girl can still dream. Jennifer was also a lot of fun, but the divorce storyline moved far too quickly for reality and, much like other parts of the story, wasn’t fleshed out enough. Admiral was the star of the show and shined in every scene.
I felt like the book was messy and suspended reality. There were no surprises and you could see the ending coming from a mile away. I really wanted to like it and see the book through, but finishing it only made me feel more disenchanted by it. I was hoping for a twist in the clutch, but it fell into stereotypical happy ending territory when it could have been so much more.
I was looking forward to a beachy read with a little drama and a little romance to kick off my summer reading, but I struggled to get through this book. I have a policy about finishing all books I start, but this is the closest I’ve come to DNFing a book. I know by the reviews that she is a beloved author, but after seeing how many books she’s written in a fairly short period of time, I feel like she is turning out quickly written books for the masses. There is nothing wrong with that, but those usually aren’t books I enjoy.
The story starts off with David, our protagonist’s fiance, manipulating her into coming back to her hometown when she wasn’t prepared to do so, nor did she know it was happening. It didn’t get better from there. For starters, the book switches points of view between Lila and her mother Eva. In doing this, we often got the same unnecessary information twice. For example, Eva told us how she had run into and damaged Lila’s father’s car, explaining the damage in detail. In the next chapter, Lila also details the damage. You could have also made a drinking game out of the number of times that the word culo was used, David pushed his glasses up his nose, and the phrase holding court was used.
As other reviewers have mentioned, the characters were hard to keep track of, but it was because of the way they were written. If the author had stuck to just using their names, it would have worked out, but she was constantly switching from her mother, her aunt, Gia, Eva, Zia, Zio, her daughter, Lila, etc. The conversations seemed forced and not at all reminiscent of how people talk. It wasn’t unusual for a character to call another character by their name numerous times during one short conversation. Sometimes, they even called each other by their last names. It was shoved down our throats how hot Luke and James were, because the women couldn’t stop commenting on their sculpted arms or tight butt, repeatedly. For me, it detracted from the story because we already were aware they were attractive. Everyone also had to be overly attractive and not relatable. James was fifty but didn’t look a day over thirty-five. Eva could sing like Celine Dion. It was a little too much.
There were a lot of double standards throughout the book. It wasn’t okay that Eva was trying to break up Lila and David’s wedding because Lila wasn’t in love with him, but we were supposed to be totally okay with Lila keeping her mother and father apart. Also, we were supposed to root for Bruno to break up with Ana to be with Carmen, who had spent twenty years rejecting him. Being Italian and being in menopause were consistently used as excuses for a ton of crappy, immature behavior. There was no accountability for their own actions.
The whole situation with Lila being okay with David kissing Sam was weird. I know she kissed Luke, but to accept David’s excuse that Sam only kissed him to distract him from being afraid of the water was ridiculous. That passage of the book went down too quickly and the reasoning was absolutely wild.
A lot of the storylines were glossed over and felt incomplete. Nothing about James is indicative of him being English. If we weren’t told that he was, you wouldn’t have known. He uses completely American language and phrases, despite being born in England and living there all his life. No attempt was made to write an Englishman. There was one single line where it was said that he would call French fries chips and that was it.
There was also a lot of conflicting information throughout the book. On one page, Lila was talking about taking things slow with Luke and how that was what she needed. A few pages later, she had another man’s baby, and Luke was proposing less than six months after she had ended her engagement. I found a lot of instances in this book where something would be said on one page and contradicted a few pages later. Overall, the story didn’t flow for me and a lot of the writing was slowed down by unnecessary descriptions and repetitive storytelling. I thought the book had a lot of promise, but the characters and their storylines needed fleshed out better.
There were a few things that I did love about the book. Willow was a breath of fresh air, owning her flaws, and felt very real and quirky. Luke was a sweet character, albeit too perfect, but a girl can still dream. Jennifer was also a lot of fun, but the divorce storyline moved far too quickly for reality and, much like other parts of the story, wasn’t fleshed out enough. Admiral was the star of the show and shined in every scene.
I felt like the book was messy and suspended reality. There were no surprises and you could see the ending coming from a mile away. I really wanted to like it and see the book through, but finishing it only made me feel more disenchanted by it. I was hoping for a twist in the clutch, but it fell into stereotypical happy ending territory when it could have been so much more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2023
There’s a lot going on here, and to start off with a heroine who’s really upset with her fiancé. I just didn’t want to engage in the drama.
July 7, 2023
https://openbooksociety.com/article/s...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
I must say that Debbie Mason has hit it out of the ball park AGAIN!!! I am always swept up in her story-telling and immersed in the small town being featured as if I were actually there. I love that when I am reading fiction!
Summer on Sunshine Bay is all about Lila Rosetti … of the Rosetti clan. And let me tell you, the Rosetti clan is comprised of a number of strong, independent women who do not believe in happily ever afters and marriage – well – except Lila that is. So when Lila returns to Sunshine Bay to introduce her fiancé David (a Matt Damon look-a-like, if Lila says so herself) to her family – there are fireworks, hugs, and many other emotions from the Rosetti clan. Actually though, as they navigate the introductions, it comes to light that David’s family has just purchased Windermere, an upscale inn that will host the engagement party as well as cause challenges for her family run restaurant, La Dolce Vita – and it may even run it out of business! Oh my goodness!!!!
We also throw into the mix that Lila’s father, James, comes to Sunshine Bay to celebrate this auspicious occasion from an invitation extended by David’s family (and NOT his own daughter). We quickly realize that the relationship between James and Eva (Lila’s mother) is fraught with unresolved emotions… one wonders where that will lead.
As Lila navigates the introduction of families and the engagement party (where the only invited Rosetti is the bride to be and her father), Lila learns of the hard times La Dolce Vita is having and how the Windermere is changing the landscape of Sunshine Bay – and not in a good way. Lila must also sort through her feelings about her upcoming nuptials, which is not an easy task when al old flame enters the picture.
I was captivated by the descriptions of Sunshine Bay. So much so that I would love to take a vacation there! And do not get me started on the MANY instances where we are introduced to the food that is served at La Dolce Vita. I am sure I gained 5 kilograms just reading the story:
“She’d taken care of the appetizers: prosciutto-and-arugula crostini, fried calamari, and fried zucchini blossoms. Eva had already made the lobster-stuffed ravioli and the brandy and plum tomato sauce with piccolo gamberetti for the pasta course. She had the entrée, Pollo Piemonte – breaded chicken breast stuffed with broccoli and goat and mozzarella cheeses with a roasted red pepper cream sauce…”
I had to do research to learn all about Gamberetti -> it is a traditional Italian dish originating from Venice. The dish is usually made with a combination of shrimps, butter, heavy cream, garlic, minced parsley, salt, and pepper. The shrimps are shelled, deveined, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cooked over high heat in butter.
So back to the book review. I find that while the number of characters were more than I traditionally like, with a bit of diligence on my part (i.e. keeping a diagram of who is related to whom) – all worked out. I was able to keep track of the characters in the beginning and as the story progressed, I did not need to look at the diagram so often.
The main storyline was predictable, but in a good way. There were a number of side stories which added spice to the story as well as some complexity. Kept me on my toes. All I can say is – those Rosetti women – love it when a family sticks together through thick and thin.
The journey that is Summer in Sunshine Bay is definitely one that is worth taking, especially for those that like contemporary romance stories. If you like to chuckle a bit with your romance, then I highly suggest picking up this latest Debbie Mason story and get reading… you will not regret it.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
I must say that Debbie Mason has hit it out of the ball park AGAIN!!! I am always swept up in her story-telling and immersed in the small town being featured as if I were actually there. I love that when I am reading fiction!
Summer on Sunshine Bay is all about Lila Rosetti … of the Rosetti clan. And let me tell you, the Rosetti clan is comprised of a number of strong, independent women who do not believe in happily ever afters and marriage – well – except Lila that is. So when Lila returns to Sunshine Bay to introduce her fiancé David (a Matt Damon look-a-like, if Lila says so herself) to her family – there are fireworks, hugs, and many other emotions from the Rosetti clan. Actually though, as they navigate the introductions, it comes to light that David’s family has just purchased Windermere, an upscale inn that will host the engagement party as well as cause challenges for her family run restaurant, La Dolce Vita – and it may even run it out of business! Oh my goodness!!!!
We also throw into the mix that Lila’s father, James, comes to Sunshine Bay to celebrate this auspicious occasion from an invitation extended by David’s family (and NOT his own daughter). We quickly realize that the relationship between James and Eva (Lila’s mother) is fraught with unresolved emotions… one wonders where that will lead.
As Lila navigates the introduction of families and the engagement party (where the only invited Rosetti is the bride to be and her father), Lila learns of the hard times La Dolce Vita is having and how the Windermere is changing the landscape of Sunshine Bay – and not in a good way. Lila must also sort through her feelings about her upcoming nuptials, which is not an easy task when al old flame enters the picture.
I was captivated by the descriptions of Sunshine Bay. So much so that I would love to take a vacation there! And do not get me started on the MANY instances where we are introduced to the food that is served at La Dolce Vita. I am sure I gained 5 kilograms just reading the story:
“She’d taken care of the appetizers: prosciutto-and-arugula crostini, fried calamari, and fried zucchini blossoms. Eva had already made the lobster-stuffed ravioli and the brandy and plum tomato sauce with piccolo gamberetti for the pasta course. She had the entrée, Pollo Piemonte – breaded chicken breast stuffed with broccoli and goat and mozzarella cheeses with a roasted red pepper cream sauce…”
I had to do research to learn all about Gamberetti -> it is a traditional Italian dish originating from Venice. The dish is usually made with a combination of shrimps, butter, heavy cream, garlic, minced parsley, salt, and pepper. The shrimps are shelled, deveined, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cooked over high heat in butter.
So back to the book review. I find that while the number of characters were more than I traditionally like, with a bit of diligence on my part (i.e. keeping a diagram of who is related to whom) – all worked out. I was able to keep track of the characters in the beginning and as the story progressed, I did not need to look at the diagram so often.
The main storyline was predictable, but in a good way. There were a number of side stories which added spice to the story as well as some complexity. Kept me on my toes. All I can say is – those Rosetti women – love it when a family sticks together through thick and thin.
The journey that is Summer in Sunshine Bay is definitely one that is worth taking, especially for those that like contemporary romance stories. If you like to chuckle a bit with your romance, then I highly suggest picking up this latest Debbie Mason story and get reading… you will not regret it.
July 31, 2023
Summer On Sunshine Bay written by Debbie Mason was a very emotional and complex story. Just from the title and cover, I thought this was going to be a fun beachy/summery book, but boy was I WRONG. I was loving this book for most of the time, but halfway through, the cheating trope was brought in. I know the main characters weren't actually married yet, but they were still engaged, yet one of them was making out with someone else? THAT'S A BIG NO NO FOR ME. I was so excited to read this book, but when the cheating trope got brought in it was like I lost my appetite. I have never read a book by Debbie Mason before, but despite not loving this one, I will definitely be sure to read her other books. I will say the ending definitely was swoon worthy, but I just couldn't fully love this book the way I planned on. I wouldn't say I'm bummed, but I just wasn't happy the way this book turned out, the beginning was so emotional, truly the entire story was emotional, but I was turned off by the cheating. If you're looking for a fun beachy read, don't pick this book up, but if you're looking for something emotional and complex, look no further than Summer On Sunshine Bay by Debbie Mason.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND FOREVER GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns home to Sunshine Bay newly engaged after being away for so long. When Lila returns home, she's hoping that news of her engagement won't bring unhappiness to her family. Lila's fiancé surprises her with an engagement party at Windmere, a restaurant that's now in competition with Lila's family's restaurant. With a baby on the way and the wedding about to happen, Lila just wants her family to get along with her fiancé's family. Eva Rosetti, Carmen, and Gia are known as The Heartbreaker's and The Rosetti Curse, every time someone got married something horrible would happen, so Eva is worried about her daughter getting her heart broken, but Lila doesn't believe in the curse. With Lila and James back in town for the wedding, Eva tries to push away the misgivings about having to come face-to-face with James, Eva's ex, but when James comes back into town, he sweeps Eva right off her feet. Eva and James had a very difficult relationship, they lived in separate houses, in different countries, which was very hard on Lila.
Lila just wants to be the perfect mother for her new baby, but when things hit the fan with David, Lila's fiancé, the wedding is called off. David was seen making out with an employer on a boat watching fireworks for the Fourth of July. David drove me crazy, I couldn't stand him at all, it was like he didn't give a crap about Lila, he was just too snotty for my liking. Lila just wants to kick her feet up and enjoy the summer on the beach. I adored watching Eva and James try to navigate their love for each other, but it truly still wasn't enough for me to love this book. Despite the Rosetti curse, Eva was willing to support her daughter, but give her the advice mom's always give their daughters. At times, it felt like Eva was bit too dramatic, but she was still lovely. The whole Rosetti family was just hilarious, they made me laugh a few times with their banter. One other thing didn't really sit well with me, Lila was about to marry a man her mother didn't like, but when her mom and dad were catching feelings for each other, Lila wasn't supportive of them, it just didn't make any sense to me whatsoever.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND FOREVER GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!
Lila Rosetti Sinclair returns home to Sunshine Bay newly engaged after being away for so long. When Lila returns home, she's hoping that news of her engagement won't bring unhappiness to her family. Lila's fiancé surprises her with an engagement party at Windmere, a restaurant that's now in competition with Lila's family's restaurant. With a baby on the way and the wedding about to happen, Lila just wants her family to get along with her fiancé's family. Eva Rosetti, Carmen, and Gia are known as The Heartbreaker's and The Rosetti Curse, every time someone got married something horrible would happen, so Eva is worried about her daughter getting her heart broken, but Lila doesn't believe in the curse. With Lila and James back in town for the wedding, Eva tries to push away the misgivings about having to come face-to-face with James, Eva's ex, but when James comes back into town, he sweeps Eva right off her feet. Eva and James had a very difficult relationship, they lived in separate houses, in different countries, which was very hard on Lila.
Lila just wants to be the perfect mother for her new baby, but when things hit the fan with David, Lila's fiancé, the wedding is called off. David was seen making out with an employer on a boat watching fireworks for the Fourth of July. David drove me crazy, I couldn't stand him at all, it was like he didn't give a crap about Lila, he was just too snotty for my liking. Lila just wants to kick her feet up and enjoy the summer on the beach. I adored watching Eva and James try to navigate their love for each other, but it truly still wasn't enough for me to love this book. Despite the Rosetti curse, Eva was willing to support her daughter, but give her the advice mom's always give their daughters. At times, it felt like Eva was bit too dramatic, but she was still lovely. The whole Rosetti family was just hilarious, they made me laugh a few times with their banter. One other thing didn't really sit well with me, Lila was about to marry a man her mother didn't like, but when her mom and dad were catching feelings for each other, Lila wasn't supportive of them, it just didn't make any sense to me whatsoever.
August 10, 2023
Even though this book has romantic threads (for multiple generations) and happy endings (for all), it skews more women's fiction than the contemporary romance for which Mason is known. It may center the story more on the Rosetti women and their journeys than only one couple but it still contains all the elements that have made Debbie Mason one of my favorite auto-buy authors. There's fun, thought-provoking conflict, laugh-out-loud humor, complex characters, complicated family (and romantic) relationships, emotional depth, and feel-good, happy endings. I am here for all of them.
I fell hard for this boisterous, opinionated, meddling, loving, stubborn, Italian family of independent women. They love hard, play hard, and hold grudges hard. They hold fast to the belief that they're cursed in love. At least the older generations do. Lila holds a different opinion but Lila is also about to marry a man she isn't in love with - for reasons - and fighting pesky feelings for a "local boy", now a considerate and sexy man, who sets off all the heart-tugging feelings the man she's supposed to marry doesn't. Eva, a beautiful and sensual woman, is dealing with "the menopause," hot flashes at inconvenient moments, the loss of her desire for physical relations, and the sudden and unexpected return of all kinds of sensations when her former lover, Lila's father, now a widower, shows up. Things are about to get very complicated in Sunshine Bay.
I loved everything about this book. One of the things I most enjoy about Debbie Mason - besides her multi-layered, fully-developed characters - is her willingness to tackle tough situations in thoughtful, emotionally sensitive ways. The complicated relationship among Lila, David, and two others may walk a fine line but, for me, it never crossed that line. I never felt like anyone was the "villain" in this scenario and I appreciated that. I was also very satisfied with the resolution of all the relationships and partnerships formed going forward. I'm being purposefully vague here but you'll understand once you've read the book. Oh, and I absolutely adored one very playful, affectionate, and huge Newfie who stole every single scene in which he appeared. I'm such a pushover for big, lovable dogs.
I'm hoping Summer on Sunshine Bay won't be the last we see of the Rosetti women. Lila has two cousins and two half-sisters who have all aroused my curiosity. Plus, there's her artist aunt who already lives in Sunshine Bay and a mysterious, estranged movie star aunt nobody in the family talks about. And I can't forget David's mother, another character who most definitely deserves a happy ending. I'm nowhere near ready to say farewell to this family!
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley. Fair and unbiased review.
I fell hard for this boisterous, opinionated, meddling, loving, stubborn, Italian family of independent women. They love hard, play hard, and hold grudges hard. They hold fast to the belief that they're cursed in love. At least the older generations do. Lila holds a different opinion but Lila is also about to marry a man she isn't in love with - for reasons - and fighting pesky feelings for a "local boy", now a considerate and sexy man, who sets off all the heart-tugging feelings the man she's supposed to marry doesn't. Eva, a beautiful and sensual woman, is dealing with "the menopause," hot flashes at inconvenient moments, the loss of her desire for physical relations, and the sudden and unexpected return of all kinds of sensations when her former lover, Lila's father, now a widower, shows up. Things are about to get very complicated in Sunshine Bay.
I loved everything about this book. One of the things I most enjoy about Debbie Mason - besides her multi-layered, fully-developed characters - is her willingness to tackle tough situations in thoughtful, emotionally sensitive ways. The complicated relationship among Lila, David, and two others may walk a fine line but, for me, it never crossed that line. I never felt like anyone was the "villain" in this scenario and I appreciated that. I was also very satisfied with the resolution of all the relationships and partnerships formed going forward. I'm being purposefully vague here but you'll understand once you've read the book. Oh, and I absolutely adored one very playful, affectionate, and huge Newfie who stole every single scene in which he appeared. I'm such a pushover for big, lovable dogs.
I'm hoping Summer on Sunshine Bay won't be the last we see of the Rosetti women. Lila has two cousins and two half-sisters who have all aroused my curiosity. Plus, there's her artist aunt who already lives in Sunshine Bay and a mysterious, estranged movie star aunt nobody in the family talks about. And I can't forget David's mother, another character who most definitely deserves a happy ending. I'm nowhere near ready to say farewell to this family!
ARC received from publisher via NetGalley. Fair and unbiased review.
May 23, 2023
As you know I love Debbie Mason's books. She has a way of writing characters that you can't help by love even when you don't like them right away. Her books are full of fun, love and great families.
When I went into the story, I knew that it would be more woman's fiction than romance. Since I love Mason, I read it anyway. I don't really enjoy woman's fiction but again, Mason.
As a whole this isn't the story for me. I didn't like David at all. In fact, most of the time Mason can take a character I hate and change that but that doesn't happen here. I just couldn't trust him. It might be for the fact that he's not really a player in this story. It's more about Lila and her family.
The story jumps around a lot but I didn't mind that. I like a busy story. What I didn't really care for is that I didn't feel like I really got to know anyone. Like most of her books this one didn't have the caring and depth to it. I think that's because it's not really a romance. In a romance you'd want a lot of David and Lila and a bit of family in friends. Instead, you have the opposite.
I think if you enjoy women's fiction then give this a try, she's a wonderful author.
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ARC received for an honest review
May 27, 2023
Once again Debbie Mason had me questioning her thought process when writing some of these men in her books BUT I know that I can always count on her to turn things around and somehow make me love the story. Often I even see redemption for (most of) these men who seem to be guided by misplaced loyalties or just plain obliviousness. As always, by the end of the story, forgiveness and redemption were given and I truly enjoyed the story.
This story was a two-fold romance with a heavy focus on family and individual character growth.
I couldn't, for the life of me, see what Lily saw him David after seeing him continuously disregard her feelings/opinions but the further I read and the more I learned about both of their family dynamics, it all began to make sense. Cut to Lily's mom, Eva and her heartbreaker ways and her rough history with Lily's dad James. It was very easy to blame Eva for everything that Lily went through as a child due to her fear of the 'family curse' but I was surprised to see that James was equally at fault for their shaky story. I particularly LOVED James and adored how he loved Lily and supported her in every way, but it was his devotion to Eva once they reconnected that truly sealed the deal that made him my favorite character in this book! Luke came in a close second but I wish that we got to see more of him.
Overall, I really enjoyed the journey of emotions that this story took me on and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. So many secrets ready to be exposed!!
*I received an early copy of this book from NetGalley for voluntary/honest review
This story was a two-fold romance with a heavy focus on family and individual character growth.
I couldn't, for the life of me, see what Lily saw him David after seeing him continuously disregard her feelings/opinions but the further I read and the more I learned about both of their family dynamics, it all began to make sense. Cut to Lily's mom, Eva and her heartbreaker ways and her rough history with Lily's dad James. It was very easy to blame Eva for everything that Lily went through as a child due to her fear of the 'family curse' but I was surprised to see that James was equally at fault for their shaky story. I particularly LOVED James and adored how he loved Lily and supported her in every way, but it was his devotion to Eva once they reconnected that truly sealed the deal that made him my favorite character in this book! Luke came in a close second but I wish that we got to see more of him.
Overall, I really enjoyed the journey of emotions that this story took me on and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. So many secrets ready to be exposed!!
*I received an early copy of this book from NetGalley for voluntary/honest review
May 23, 2023
Lila Rosetti Sinclair is coming home to Sunshine Bay and is nervous to face her family with her big news. She is not only engaged; she is having a baby. She is not quite sure how her family will take the news especially when the family believes they are cursed when it comes to marriage. When Lila arrives, she is thrown into a whirlwind of wedding plans and has no idea her mother, aunt, grandmother and cousins are determined to make sure the wedding never happens. As the wedding approaches, will Lila make it down the aisle to say I do?
Eva Rosetti is excited to have her daughter Lila home again but is not very happy with the news of her engagement especially when she sees that Lila’s future in-laws own the hotel that could put Eva and her family’s restaurant out of business. Not only that but Eva must now contend with Lila’s father also being on the island. The one man that Eva has never stopped loving. Can Eva stop the wedding and her feelings for Lila’s father?
This novel by Debbie Mason was absolutely fabulous. The Rosetti women were feisty and fun throughout the whole book and I am hoping that this won’t be the last we hear of them. I am hoping this is the beginning to a new series for Ms. Mason. It was such a joy to read and I did not want the story to end. All of the characters were so well written that I got caught up in the story within the first few pages. Thank you to Forever Publishing for my advanced readers copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. This is one book you want to put on your summer reading list friends. A solid five stars.
Eva Rosetti is excited to have her daughter Lila home again but is not very happy with the news of her engagement especially when she sees that Lila’s future in-laws own the hotel that could put Eva and her family’s restaurant out of business. Not only that but Eva must now contend with Lila’s father also being on the island. The one man that Eva has never stopped loving. Can Eva stop the wedding and her feelings for Lila’s father?
This novel by Debbie Mason was absolutely fabulous. The Rosetti women were feisty and fun throughout the whole book and I am hoping that this won’t be the last we hear of them. I am hoping this is the beginning to a new series for Ms. Mason. It was such a joy to read and I did not want the story to end. All of the characters were so well written that I got caught up in the story within the first few pages. Thank you to Forever Publishing for my advanced readers copy which I voluntarily read and reviewed. This is one book you want to put on your summer reading list friends. A solid five stars.
May 30, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 Stars
Thank you to Netgalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and Debbie Mason for allowing me to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book for an honest review. This book was published on May 23, 2023.
The Rosetti curse has haunted the family and the town of Sunshine Bay for decades. The local men call the Rosetti women “the heartbreakers”. It’s been rumored that the Rosetti women may never marry because their soon to be husbands will suffer heartbreak or even worse…death. Their freedom and independence from men has bonded the women of the family together to be stronger than they ever imagined.
Lila is determined to prove once and for all that there is no curse by marrying her fiancé, David. There are a few hiccups along the way though. For starters, David’s family owns the new posh hotel in Sunshine Bay which may end up putting Lila’s family’s restaurant out of business. Luke, Lila’s childhood crush, hires her to help brand the two local businesses that he owns. I’m the end, Lila is challenged with figuring out if she is marrying David for the right reasons.
Is the curse true to its legendary accusation? Or, are the Rosetti women cursed with their insecurities and fear? The fear of taking a risk, acknowledging their feelings, and making a commitment?
This book is the perfect 2023 beach read and will definitely not disappoint romance readers and believers of second chance romance! I highly recommend picking up your copy today!
Thank you to Netgalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and Debbie Mason for allowing me to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book for an honest review. This book was published on May 23, 2023.
The Rosetti curse has haunted the family and the town of Sunshine Bay for decades. The local men call the Rosetti women “the heartbreakers”. It’s been rumored that the Rosetti women may never marry because their soon to be husbands will suffer heartbreak or even worse…death. Their freedom and independence from men has bonded the women of the family together to be stronger than they ever imagined.
Lila is determined to prove once and for all that there is no curse by marrying her fiancé, David. There are a few hiccups along the way though. For starters, David’s family owns the new posh hotel in Sunshine Bay which may end up putting Lila’s family’s restaurant out of business. Luke, Lila’s childhood crush, hires her to help brand the two local businesses that he owns. I’m the end, Lila is challenged with figuring out if she is marrying David for the right reasons.
Is the curse true to its legendary accusation? Or, are the Rosetti women cursed with their insecurities and fear? The fear of taking a risk, acknowledging their feelings, and making a commitment?
This book is the perfect 2023 beach read and will definitely not disappoint romance readers and believers of second chance romance! I highly recommend picking up your copy today!
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