A tremendously great read about friends, family, myths & legends and a smorgasbord of delicious sounding food. This book was beautifully written and you could really sense the surroundings of Chesapeake Bay which sounded wonderful. The story of Grace and Isla was a wonderful story of a great and long lasting friendship. This was a delightful read with a number of twists and turns.

I was so pumped to get to read this ARC. After having visited the Chesapeake region growing up, this book made me even more nostalgic for the East Coast. Palmisano has you hooked (some pun intended) from the beginning with wondering if the myth of local mermaid(s) are true, do the main characters finally get a chance at happily ever afters? But more than that it will make you grateful for your best friend, especially if they’ve been in your life since adolescence like Isla and Grace. If you’re wanting to get lost in the magic of what ifs, second chances, and summer on the water pick this book up.

This is the most glorious novel I have read in a long time, friends, family, love and loss -it has it all and I couldn't put it down. A book where you can't stop reading but don't want it to end. Gracenisla come as a summer package and the soul sisters meet up in Mermaids Cove where they were young friends.- the mystery is Isla an actual mermaid - read on and find out.

Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for this ARC.

Fleeing her controlling husband, Grace Cleary has returned to her hometown of Maiden's Cove with her 8 year old daughter Bayla, to take over the failing family restaurant she has inherited from her father.

Soon she is immersed in the small seaside town's community, reconnecting with her brother Ben, old crush Luke and BFF Isla who is rumoured to be a mermaid. Because Maiden's Cove seems to have magic and mermaids and green shimmering lights coming from the sea, enchanting the community and tourists alike.

In an unforgettable summer of mouth-watering fresh seafood, cheerful fishing festivals and childhood memories to better times, old friends find their way back to each other but old dangers also resurface. This is a compelling story of love, friendship, self-discovery and second chances that will make you hopeful that everything is possible.

"One from the land and one from the sea. Summer soul sisters forever shall we be.

3.75 stars

The novel is an emotional journey of forgiveness, love, and second chances, with a touch of the magic and mystery that defines Maiden’s Cove. With its themes of healing relationships, rediscovered love, and the power of food to bring people together, The Secrets of Maiden’s Cove offers both escapism and an exploration of what it means to truly return home. The lore of mermaids, charming fishing festivals, and a life renewed make this the perfect summer read for anyone looking to lose themselves in a town full of heart, hope, and a bit of magic.