Wow. This is a must read for summer 2018. Utterly perfect! What a great first story to read by this author, I am very impressed. Where do I even start?

I started reading this book after a really stressful morning and it was just what I needed! The cover is lovely and I felt instantly at home and familiar with the town and characters from the start. It made me feel very welcome and calm like I’ve always been part of this town and familiar with the characters. It is a beautiful uplifting story about love and friendships.

Parts had me laughing out loud, my head in my hands at the blips and shouting for joy at all the happy parts. I cannot fault this book, it was just what I needed and I will shout about this book! I’ve found another new favourite author. Brilliantly written. It’s one of those books I didn’t want to finish but also had to finish and devour.

A must read from me. A well deserved five stars… Highly recommend. I cannot wait to read more by this author in the future.

Lovely beautifully written story. I really liked the descriptions of the scenery and the characters. A lovely way to spend a couple of hours.

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

I adore this author's books and I think that this book is the best that she has written to date! It flows so well and has an absolutely brilliant storyline.

I loved the characters and their interaction was spot on, the development of the plot as I went through the book was superb and I couldn't think of giving this book anything other than a massive 5 stars!!

I cannot wait to see what she releases next, for me with each new book that comes out she is raising the standard higher and higher each time - this is a brilliant book, it is so lovely to read and very, very hard to put down. I loved where I transported too!!

I have been a fan of Holly’s for a fair while now. I just love her books. I was so looking forward to reading ‘The Cottage On Sunshine Beach’. I was not to be disappointed as I absolutely loved it but more about that in a bit.
I immediately took to the character of Melody Rosewood and I even ended up more than a bit envious of her. She is a young woman, who moved to Sunshine Beach to help her sister bring up their brother’s child, after their brother died. I get the impression that there are times when she misses her old life with her old friends and her old career. However, there’s nowhere else she would rather be now because she gets to live by the sea, she lives close to her sister, she gets to see her nephew grow up, she has her own little business, she has a gorgeous but mischievous puppy and she enjoys a flirty relationship with the local hunk. There is definitely some chemistry there but he seems to be a bit reluctant to take the next step. Jamie, the hunk, also has a gorgeous but mischievous puppy who happens to be from the same litter as Melody’s pup so they have the opportunity to spend time with each other when their pups meet up for a play date. Any excuse and all that.
The author’s writing style is such that you are just drawn into the story from the moment you begin to read and the characters are so realistic that you genuinely take to them and begin to think of them as friends- or at least that’s how I felt. I love the way in which Holly Martin is able to write about serious subjects with great empathy and she treats them so sensitively too. I became very addicted to reading this book from the moment I picked up the book and began to read. I just had to see if Melody ever got together with Jamie, if their puppies ever managed to behave themselves and to see if Melody got the happy ever after that she so deserves. The pages were turning so quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves and before I knew what was happening I had finished the book which I was so disappointed about. I was enjoying the story, the characters and the puppies so much that I just wanted the book to continue. By the time I finished ‘The Cottage On Sunshine Beach’ I felt as though I had been through a bit of an emotional rollercoaster ride. There were moments where I found myself wanting to cry and then the next minute I felt myself wanting to laugh at something that Melody or the puppies had got up to. At times I felt myself wanting to give certain characters a talking to and then I would immediately want to hug other characters. So I guess you could say that I went from one extreme to the other.
In conclusion I really did enjoy reading ‘The Cottage On Sunshine Beach’ and I would definitely recommend it to other readers. My only criticism of the book was that it had to end. Holly Martin certainly has another winner on her hands. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.

4.5 Bright Sunshiny Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

Bump this up half a star because this book still is making me smile 😀 this book has my favorite word in the title SUNSHINE and to make it even better it also has beach and cottage... how could I possibly go wrong? Additionally it is written by the brilliant Holly Martin! And to top it all off it is set in beautiful and charming Seashell Cove... I am SO visiting there and when I do I am hoping I meet each and every character in this delightful book....

This is the second book in the series, however you could read it as a standalone... it was so much fun to revisit these quirky characters and this time around we got Melody and Jamie’s story... but no worries we got a fair dose of Aiden and Tori along with Leo and Isla.... and I cannot forget adorable Elliot! I would so love to go to a barbecue with all of these fabulous characters and watch one of Elliotts famous magnificent magic shows.... well now I think I’ve invited myself to Seashell Cove twice... probably three times i’m sure I did so in my review of the first book as well....

Jamie and Melody’s romance got off to a bit of a rocky start... that is unless you think poisoning your date on the first date is a good thing? And that wasn’t the only date disaster, I have to say I did get some good laughs out of these tragic dates! Fortunately these two have a sense of humor... and as the romance progressed I found it very sweet with a bit of sizzle.... isn’t always easy to navigate a new relationship in a small town where everybody knows everything about everybody....

Just loved so many things about this book! loved Melody’s jewelry... loved Jamie’s unusual sculptures... and there is a scene in this book involving fairy lights and a cave that is just hilariously amazing! A lovely book full of romance and charm... that will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart😍

Absolutely recommend to people who love a good romantic comedy, quirky characters, and sunshine!🌞

*** many thanks too Bookouture for my copy of this delightful book ***

When I chose to read The Cottage on Sunshine Beach, I knew that I'd be in for a treat, as all of Holly's books that I've read so far have been absolutely wonderful and entertaining.

Having read The Holiday Cottage by the Sea, which is where you first get to meet Melody and Jamie as background characters, I was very keen to read their story which is what Holly's latest book is all about.

I loved everything about this story, it was such a joy to read, so heartfelt in places and there were plenty of giggles along the way. It was great getting to know Melody and Jamie to discover their stories and finding out if they are successful in getting together and becoming a forever, their story really pulled on my heartstrings. Oh and I totally fell in love with Jamie, impossible not to, he's so handsome, sensitive, thoughtful, not to mention the things he can do with his hands, he is certainly talented in many ways and no I’m not on about the hot naughtiness that takes place in the book, although he does excel in that category too, lol, you’ll just have to read the book yourself so as to find out just how talented Jamie is. One thing is for sure, it made me want him as my own boyfriend, I'm so not jealous at all lol.

Also a bonus throughout the story, is that I got to meet up with previous characters Tori, Aidan, Isla, Leo, Elliott and Aunt Agatha, not to mention all of the dogs from the first book, to discover how they were all getting on and what was new with each of them. Aunt Agatha is still as nosy and interfering as ever, in her own loving and unique way.

Everything about this book is picture perfect, it was well written, so very heartfelt in places, the characters are all wonderful and the setting/location of the book was faultless, so idyllic and picturesque. Just like last time, I fell in love with the location and wished that I was there experiencing it all.

One of my favourite scenes, there was a lot but this one absolutely deserves a mention, it was the puppy training session, the whole scene was completely hilarious and adorable, it had me in giggles let me tell you.

Last words, if you haven't read any of Holly Martin's books yet, then don't delay any more, as you are missing out. Holly is an amazing author and she has such a way with words that just makes her stories truly magical and come alive.

*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

We are back in Sandcastle Bay and I couldn't be happier! I was hoping for Melody to get her own story told and here we are...

I loved following both Melody and Jamie, because they had instant attraction and the sparks between them were intense. The past is holding Jamie back though, it's hard for him to commit to a relationship again.

We also got to catch up with some familiar characters again, like Tori and Aiden, which was lovely. I love this community of people and Sandcastle Bay is just the perfect place. I absolutely adore Holly Martin's descriptive and detailed writing. She takes you right into a story and makes it magical and unique.

Melody and Jamie share some special moments and Holly Martin captured them beautifully. It's full of emotions, humor and love.

Holly Martin has a real gift of creating these wonderful places you never want to leave again. Her writing is passionate and authentic. This is a definite must read!!!

Thank you to Bookouture for letting me be part of this blog tour. I have been a fan of Holly's writing for such a long time and I can't imagine my life without her stories. After we met Melody and Jamie in The Cottage by the Sea I was so excited to get to their book. 

Melody is extremely accident prone. The people in her past have been less than patient with her about this. She believes that no one would want to put up with her, her own parents can't even put up with it! I really liked Melody, She is kind, loyal, brave and sees the best in everyone around her.  I can be quite accident prone, although not as much as Melody, and I've seen that look of frustration on people's faces. Melody has so many qualities and it was sad that she couldn't see them. 

Jamie has had his heart well and truly messed with in the past. Jamie is a good guy. He's caring, he's thoughtful, he's loyal but things just haven't gone well for him in the past. He's picked the wrong girls who don't appreciate him. His past experience has made him scared of committing again. Jamie reminded me of my boyfriend. The things he does for Melody in this book are definitely the sort of things that my boyfriend would do for me. So of course I was swooning at Jamie throughout this book. 

One of my favourite things about Holly's writing is the emotions she involuntarily pulls out of me. Holly has me crying in one scene and laughing in the next. I don't even thinking abut it these emotions just tumble out. My absolute favourite scene in this book is the puppy training class it's just SO funny. 

I absolutely loved every page of this book and I was sad to finish it so quickly. I feel like I cannot write the words to express how I feel about this book. It was everything I hoped for and so so much more. I can't wait for Holly's next release.

I just love this author’s books! They are pure sunshine on a cloudy day. Everyone I have read draws me into the story and place, wishing I could visit there. She paints such a vision with her words you can picture the houses, the sea, the people. Characters are well thought out, warm and inviting. This was just another book to bring a big smile to my face.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by NetGalley.

This truly is a delightful seaside romantic comedy, with great characters, an idyllic community and plenty of twists and turns to keep you enthralled. There are a plethora of laugh out loud moments throughout this heartwarming story during which jewellery maker Melody Rosewood learns to laugh at her catastrophic dating disasters thanks to the highly talented - and handsome - sculptor, Jamie Jackson. As these two artists venture from great friends to explore the possibilities of being more, the local community will include characters who are determined to get involved, with additional humorous impacts. For added adorability, there are puppies galore and their escapades are simply hilarious, especially at their disastrous obedience training class.

This is the second book in the series and involves many of the same characters. Holly Martin describes events so well she brings them vividly to life in the imagination of the reader. The close knit community, their notorious characters and support are all key to this endearing story and series.  I believe it works as a standalone but have to say that both stories are brilliantly written so I recommend reading them both! For everyone who has already read the first story in the series, "The Holiday Cottage by the Sea", this story gives you the opportunity to catch up on Aidan and Tori - and their witnessed special event in the cave, which definitely had me giggling! I'm really hoping that the next book in this series will feature Leo and Isla finally getting together and I can't wait to read it!

Well, in case you haven't gathered, I have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone looking for a superbly crafted romantic comedy to escape into. Holly Martin is one of my go-to authors and I've thoroughly enjoyed everything I've read by her. This story would be ideal to read whilst relaxing on the beach - or whilst dreaming of being able to do so! I certainly didn't want to put it down until I'd finished and am already looking forward to being able to read future stories in this series.

I requested and was given a copy of this novel via NetGalley. I chose to read it and this is my honest opinion after doing so.

I just finished The Cottage on Sunshine Beach by Holly Martin. This novel tells the story of Melody and Jamie, two friends who live in a seaside village. Their lives are entwined by family, friends, and puppies, and Melody takes the big step of asking him out to see if there could be more between them. But with the baggage and past heartbreaks that both of them bring to the table, can they find their way to a happily ever after?

Late into the book, I realized this was the second in a series. I normally always read a series in order, but I decided to just keep going with this one. It works just fine as a standalone story! I enjoyed the side stories of all the different characters, and I could see potential for a third book - perhaps one is planned? I also loved the setting... this is the kind of little community where I dream of living!

My favorite scene in the book, hands down, was the training class with the puppies... I was literally laughing out loud, which would have been fine except it was two o'clock in the morning and everyone else was sleeping. Whoops! But it was hilarious and summed up the craziness and quirkiness of this little community.

If you're looking for a light, fun summer beach read, this will fit the bill quite nicely! Happy reading!

4 sunshiny stars to The Cottage on Sunshine Beach!☀️☀️☀️☀️

I was so excited to return to Sandcastle Bay for Melody’s story! Holly Martin has me all-in with this series!

Melody has a new cottage on Sunshine Beach in quaint, picturesque Sandcastle Bay. She lives close to her best friend, Tori, who was introduced during the first installment in the series. Melody’s life is pretty full and happy, but she finds herself missing having someone to share it with.

Enter Jamie. He and Melody work across the street from each other and are friends first, but their feelings begin to flourish. While it would not be fun to experience first-hand, the ongoing dating disasters of Melody and Jamie had me giggling at times. Through these trials, they have to decide if it’s worth it to be together, or should they remain friends.

The Cottage on Sunshine Beach is an uplifting, easy, funny, endearing, and warm-hearted read, just perfect for summer! What’s not to love? I am already excited to see who we meet in the next book! Highly recommended for rom com fans.

Thanks to Bookouture for the copy.

4.5 Stars

What a delight it was to step into the village to be among friends at Sandcastle Bay. Melody Rosewood is quite pleased with her new home, her gorgeous little cottage on the edge of Sunshine Beach. She is back among dear family and her wonderful best friend Tori Graham. Her jewelry shop is coming along quite nicely, and she couldn't be happier. Well, with the exception of Jamie Jackson. Every time she sees him her heart leaps into her chest. Oh my, but she is head over heels. Will she ever be able to even ask him out on a date, never mind telling him how she feels?

Jamie been hurt and rejected. He loves Melody to distraction, but he will never allow their close friendship to pass that boundary because of the pain that in his heart. I love when his friend and workmate Klaus says to him, "Avoiding relationships doesn't mean avoiding love, you can't stop yourself from feeling that." Can Melody show him what he has been missing, that love is indeed a wonderful thing? It is obvious that they are made for each other. Every day they walk to work together with their sibling puppies and talk for hours, but a relationship, he doesn't think it is possible.

This romance in this story is absolutely wonderful. Our dear, sweet Melody is a klutz, and that fact screws up their first few dates. But, since Jamie has finally committed to trying for a relationship with Melody, the bumbling events that occur on the dates do not put Jamie off at all. Then there is the village, a close-knit community, one that knows everything going on - no matter how personal, how sensitive. Oh the humor there!

The Cottage on Sunshine Beach is romantic, oh-so-spicy and truly hilarious. The book often made me laugh out loud. For example, when Melody's 5-year-old nephew Elliot speaks of his "sex", er "sax" lessons at school, mispronouncing the word, shocking both his mom and his aunt. Also, there is a wonderful sensitive nature to the story. Factor in that they both have such adorable puppies and that goes a long way into making this a true keeper. I am new to Holly Martin, but she will definitely go on my "to buy" list. Her writing style is truly engaging, making this a very quick read.

Many thanks to Holly Martin, Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book has me in a dilemma, as I'm pretty sure this is just my opinion and relative to my mood this week but I didn't find this as strong as Holly's previous fantastic works.
The strengths- I very much felt the complex relationship of Melody and her Mum was a really unique & interesting subplot that I'd have liked made more a main part of the book; Melody's mum didn't really have the voice I'd have liked her to have and if perhaps that relationship had been the main plot focus rather than the romance it would have been a very different book. There are funny moments and some loveable characters (especially Elliot) and this makes a light, feelgood read.
For me the dating parts didn't seem as natural and fire-inspiring as I've read previously, and I just felt the focus was more on the coupling of the characters than much else, which I think is a bit of a missed opportunity. However, if you're looking for an easy going, romantic Summery read this is a sure choice!

I adored the return visit to Sandcastle Bay. The characters now seem like old friends and they are all so wonderful. This book follows Melody and Jamie and willing them to take their lovely friendship to the next romantic level. They are so well suited, arty and a bit burnt by previous relationships.

I could imagine myself in Sandcastle Bay and chatting to Melody in her lovely cottage. Everyone in the bay seems to have a puppy and I loved the scene with the first puppy class.

We see the relationships of all the characters we've met before and how they all help each other out. The annual event they are all preparing for- sounds such a great part of a seaside resort calendar. I could really picture myself part of the festivities.

The romance fairly sizzles at times. A really lovely read.

Melody and Jamie are friends and also have young puppies whom are brothers they walk together. Melody has had a lot to deal with age losing her brother and so moving to by the sea so she can be closer to her sister and nephew. Tori her best friend also moved from London and now works on Jamie's brother's fruit farm. Melody is a jewellery designer and also hopes for her mother's approval after years of never getting it or any praise for her achievements.



Jamie's friend Klaus a fellow sand sculptor, helps him realise how he feels about Melody after she asks him round for dinner.



Melody and Jamie embark on a friendship just dating situation and winds up in a few hilarious situations and many emotional times happen too and some super sweet romantic times as the couple come to realise what they truly feel for each other.



The book was so good just like Holly Martin's other great books this one made the areas sound so picturesque with the names of the areas. I loved the puppies in the book being named after film characters and Agatha an older lady who knows all the best spots for a bit of outdoor fun, if you get my drift! Holly will make you laugh, cry and smile like crazy with every book she writes without fail!



Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!

Yet another wonderful book by Holly Martin! So well written that you feel like you are there with the characters! As always, I highly recommend this book by Holly. A fabulous summery feel good story!

I received The Cottage on Sunshine Beach by Holly Martin from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. This is the first time I have read any books from Holly Martin. It is the second in a series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Melody Rosewood moves to Sandcastle Bay after the death of her brother and meets Jamie Jackson. They have known each other for about one year and are attracted to one another but, are keeping the relationship as friends. Then Melody works up the courage to ask Jamie out and all bets are off.
Holly Martin is a wonderful writer! The story was sweet and pure. It is about normal people in a normal quaint town, with normal friends, normal interactions, and normal conversations. And sadly, not my cup of tea. While I enjoy normal on occasion, I also want witty banter and sadly, banter wasn't in this book.
If you are looking for sweet and normal, Holly Martin writes it wonderfully. #TheCottageonSunshineBeach #NetGalley

I love all of Holly Martins books, perfect to sit out on a sun lounger and be sent away with the story at hand. The scene in the cave makes your eyes water.... watch out. the descriptions of this book are so easy to follow you can see it without must imagination, pure brilliance. I don't want to give any spoilers on this book because it needs to be read instantly.

The Cottage on Sunshine Beach is the second book in Holly Martin’s Sandcastle Bay series. Melody Rosewood moved to Sandcastle Bay a bit over a year ago to assist her sister, Isla, as she undertook the major life change to raise their nephew Elliott after Melody’s twin, Matthew, perished in an auto accident.

She had given up a fashionable jewelry business in London, but has since established a brand new jewelry shop in her new home and her business is doing well. Her best friend, Tori, has now moved to Sandcastle Bay, so life is pretty complete. That is, except for the fact she is in love with sculptor Jamie Jackson who seems oblivious to this.

In this story, accident prone Melody decides to take a chance and invites Jamie to her home for dinner. Things are going quite well until Jamie is poisoned by an ingredient she used in her appetizers. In fact, such mini-tragedies seem to happen on each of their dates. However, Jamie doesn’t seem to notice. What he does notice is the lasting effects the actions of her parents have had to her self esteem and the things he will do to circumvent them.

This is a delightful story with rich characters and a beautiful setting. I’ve enjoyed Ms. Martin’s engaging tales and this one is no exception. Her characters are multidimensional, her settings lovely, and her plots will touch your heart. I do recommend this book!