New Beginnings at Seaside Blooms
D**Y
Long term relations
Heart warming great story. I met my partner 32 years ago and our paths must of crossed as my gran and grandad lived round the corner from my partner's mum and dad. He knew my uncles. Also lots of other neighbours. We were to marry but he passed away last year. Second time around for us but he was my true love
L**Y
A book you won't want to put down!
This debut novel by new author Jessica Redland is right up there with the already well known chick-lit authors like Sophie Kinsella, Carole Matthews, Jill Mansell, and Marian Keyes.The book is original, witty, touching, romantic and an all-round great read. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and was very excited to realise that not only is it the first in a trilogy, but there is also a novella published on Kindle (Raving About Rhys) and a short story (So Not Steven), also only available on Kindle. I can't wait to read her next book, Getting Over Gary when it is published in 2016.The story's main protagonist, Sarah, has been stuck in a dead-end relationship for far too long and when she finally makes the break, this sparks off a sequence of events which will change her life completely. Along the way we are introduced to her two best friends Elise and Claire who are total opposites and love to hate each other; any number of guys called Steven; and of course the lovely Nick. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters in the book and am looking forward to seeing how they develop even further in the rest of the trilogy.If you're looking for a holiday read, a commuting-on-the-train read, a bedtime read, or to be fair any other kind of read - this is the book for you.
C**Y
Engaging and easy to read
After three years Sarah is finally disillusioned with her commitment shy and insensitive partner Jason, and decides to call it a day. Leaving London for a weekend trip to her home town of Whitsborough Bay she’s sorry her parents are away fro the weekend, but she can catch up with her Auntie Kay. Kay owns and runs Seaside Blooms and Sarah has happy memories of helping in the flower shop. Little does she realise the shop would soon be hers and her home would be back in Whitsborough Bay.[quote] ‘I’ve had an unexpected opportunity to travel round the world with my friend Linda and I’ve decided to take it. I want to retire and I want you to become the new owner of Seaside Blooms. Pretty much immediately.’ [unquote]Sarah had made a life plan when she was quite young, down to when she’d meet her future husband and what her wedding dress would look like. Things hadn’t worked out quite as she’d hoped. During the process of packing her belongings she finds a long forgotten recording of a visit to a clairvoyant. The predictions had all been accurate apart from meeting her Mr Right, who the clairvoyant said would be named Steven. Badgered by one of her best friends she signs up to a dating agency.I confess I did feel like giving Sarah a good shake once or twice, she was so Steven obsessed. And they kept cropping up everywhere, the good, the bad and downright awful. And suppose she’s already met and is drawn to someone whose name happens not to be Steven…Despite her fixation with Stevens Sarah is someone with a relatable personality, worried about her weight, unsure if she wants or needs the pressure of running her own business and takes into account the opinions of her two best friends Elise and Clare who, incidentally, are complete opposites and only just tolerate each other for Sarah’s sake. Their animosity causes a few sparks to fly during some amusing scenes.The characters are very well fleshed out, the writing style engaging and easy to read, and the story flows nicely with a character driven narrative. I enjoyed the descriptions of Sarah revamping the florist shop and setting up her business, also the relationships between the characters and the fact Sarah matured and took control of her life, learning lessons along the way.
A**A
Brilliant.
This is a great read really a great love story . From beginning to end . Hope to finish all the book sets .
P**R
Terrific story from a brilliant new author.
My wife really loved this book. This is her review. I had been looking forward to reading 'Searching For Steven' after thoroughly enjoying Jessica Redland's novella 'Raving about Rhys' and I was certainly not disappointed. I loved the overall storyline of a young woman, Sarah, who completely changes her lifestyle by moving from London, having parted company with her rubbish boyfriend. She then settles back in her home town of Whitsborough Bay where she takes over her Auntie Kay's florist shop. She then begins her search for Steven, the name of the 'man of her dreams' predicted by a clairvoyant many years ago. In her search she meets many different types of Stevens but also a very attractive Nick and also an ex boyfriend from years ago called Andy so plenty of choice for Sarah. This is a really good story not only from the love aspect but also the relationship she has with her mum and Auntie Kay, and her two best friends Clare and Elise. The dialogue is very witty at times but the story is also quite poignant in parts. I am now eagerly looking forward to Jessica's follow up novel 'Getting over Gary' but unfortunately will have to wait until next year for that pleasure. I wish every success to this new author - she certainly deserves to do well.
G**R
Another winner from Jessica Redland!
I am so loving my visits to Whitsborough Bay in each of Jessica Redland's series set in the area. With deeply drawn characters and unusually serious storylines, she shines in each effort. These books are more than a casual beach read, in my thoughts. These characters come alive and compel me to hurry and pick up the next book in order to further my visit to The Bay. Perfect for fans of Sophie Claire, Trisha Ashley, Heidi Swain, and Cathy Bramley. Treat yourself to an escape to a fictional town that will live in your dreams.
V**A
Must read story, a great twist
I started to feel the characters were to give more as I read more. I was not disappointed and loved how it evolved. A light hearted read with something about to happen.
L**I
Such a twisted story!
Can a story be both cute and twisted at the same time?Well, yes..this is the one!I wish the book had more of Nick-Sarah moments.
K**S
A good read.could not stop.
Characters were well portrayed description and humour made them seem lifelike.I could almost smell the flowers and see the gifts. A book that I could read again and also any sequels. Thank you🔰☺
F**I
5 Blooming Stars
New Beggings at Seaside Blooms is a wonderful book. Sarah's Auntie Kay is going to travel the world with her friend, and decides to give Sarah Seaside Blooms.One day, Sarah and her friends find a CD that a fortune teller gave her. At the end there is still one question…Who is Steven? During the book secrets unravel and she is to make hard choices. What will she choose and will the ones she loves give her a second chance and time? What will the consequences be? Secrets are everywhere, and does Sarah have time to make the right choice?Have an awesome day,Kindle User.P.S Seaside Blooms is a good name!
Trustpilot
3 weeks ago
2 weeks ago