Plot:

When fate brings three strangers to a charming space for lease on the California coast, the Boardwalk Bookshop is born. Part bookstore, part gift shop, part bakery, it’s a dream come true for Bree, Mikki and Ashley. But while their business is thriving, their personal lives are…not.

Bree, wounded by brilliant but cold parents and her late husband’s ultimate betrayal, has sworn to protect her heart at all costs. Even from Ashley’s brother, a writer and adventurer who has inspired millions. He’s the first man to see past Bree’s barricades to her true self, which terrifies her. Mikki has this divorce thing all figured out—somehow, she’s stayed friends with her ex and her in-laws…until a new man changes how everyone looks at her, and how she sees herself. Meanwhile, Ashley discovers that the love of her life never intends to marry. Can she live without being a wife if it means she can have everything else she’s ever wanted?

At sunset every Friday on the beach in front of the Boardwalk Bookshop, the three friends share a champagne toast. As their bond grows closer, they challenge one another to become the best versions of themselves in this heartachingly beautiful story of friendship, sisterhood and the transformative power of love.

Review:

A novel about the test of friendships! 💫

Bree, Mikki and Ashley made a combined business decision that paid in dividends none of them expected. Not only are their individual businesses (bookstore, gift shop and bakery) thriving as they share the same space, but a lifelong friendship develops and blooms. In fact, the women also find more in their lives that they did not expect.

Their weekly get-together over champagne solidifies their bond week after week. But, during this time each woman finds herself involved in romantic entanglements. However, the chance for happily ever after for each of them seems highly doubtful.

For Bree, taking a chance with Ashley’s brother is a risk, as she worries if things do not work out, will her friendship with Ashley be soured. For Ashley, she is in love with her partner and the two live together. But, when he tells her that he never plans on marriage, Ashley begins to doubt the strength of his love. Meanwhile, Mikki is enjoying a “happy divorce”. She and her ex-co-parent well, enjoy other activities together, and the question comes up as to whether or not they can give it another go. However, with a new man in her life, Mikki might be forced to view long-range plans for her life.

What a cute book about friendship and the power of love between strong women who only want the best for each other. I enjoyed each “love story” as it developed and truly felt for each of the women as they explored the possibility of love and a happy future. For a book that will give all the feels, The Boardwalk Bookshop definitely checks all the boxes.

4/5 Stars