"Just the Beginning" by Sarah Bennett provides a delightful and warm small-town romance with a hint of emotional complexity. In the lovely Halfmoon Quay, the novel explores the complicated lives of Rick Penrose, the village's constant good-guy heartthrob, and Anya Stokes, his teenage infatuation back in the area for a new beginning after a life-changing epiphany.
Bennett vividly captures the picture of village life, evoking a warm and friendly atmosphere that makes the reader immediately want to enter it. Rick is an instant likeable chap – a true good bloke who will always offer his services, perhaps occasionally a bit too readily. His unflinching helpfulness, initially appealing, later develops into the central conflict of the story, which examines the precarious balance between helping and bossing someone in a relationship.
Anya's journey is one of discovery and resilience. Having been stripped of her ease of life and shocked by betrayal, her return to Halfmoon Quay feels both necessary and intimidating. Bennett is effective in conveying Anya's vulnerability and her gradual progression towards independence. Her central aim of offering Freya a secure life gives an emotional depth to her character and her interactions with Rick.

The romance between Rick and Anya develops naturally, driven by their history and Rick's lingering love. They are sweet in their early encounters, full of easy familiarity. Bennett skillfully introduces tension, though, as she points up Rick's proclivity for overreaching and Anya's new requirement for independence. This creates a realistic tension and keeps the relationship from being too cloying. The novel's greatest strength lies in its investigation of how a past experience may affect a relationship in the present. Anya's earlier experience of a relationship founded on lies leads her to distrust Rick's sometimes overbearing but always helpful nature, so there are rational misunderstandings and doubts.

Bennett is an easy and enjoyable writer to read. Dialogue comes across naturally, and inner monologues of both Rick and Anya are well-nuanced, enabling the reader to relate to their personal strivings and wants. Though the story itself is fairly uncomplicated, the reader remains engrossed thanks to the careful development of characters and their blossoming relationship.
One of the book's key themes is being honest and open in a relationship. Rick's good intentions to keep Anya's secrets for her protection end up driving them apart and jeopardizing their romance.

This serves as a good reminder of how assumptions can be dangerous and how important it is to be openly communicative.
Strengths of "Just the Beginning" are Charming Small-Town Setting: Halfmoon Quay is a genuine and inviting place, Likeable and Relatable Characters: Rick and Anya are both well-developed with understandable motivations, Realistic Relationship Dynamics: The handling of the complexities of forging a new relationship amidst past baggage is well done, Engaging Writing Style: Bennett's writing is clear to read and keeps the reader engaged, Exploration of Significant Themes: The novel addresses themes of trust, autonomy, and the support balance within a relationship.

Weaknesses of the book according to me are Familiar Elements: Some plot points may be reminiscent of familiar plot elements for readers in the genre, Rick's Over-Helpfulness: Central to the conflict as it is, some readers may find Rick's initial overbearing personality frustratingly in places.

"Just the Beginning" is a warm and pleasant read for those who enjoy heartwarming small-town romances with realistic characters and a dash of emotional depth. Sarah Bennett writes a wonderful tale of second chances, the nuances of trust, and discovering love in the unlikeliest of places. If you are searching for an engaging and delightful story with a happy ending, this book is a sweet choice. It's a reminder that sometimes, the ideal one might have been in front of us the entire time, even though the way to figuring out that isn't always easy.

I like books about second chances and I spent some really enjoyable time with this nice romance. I liked the supportive family, the well-developed characters and the gorgeous setting. I can recommend to anyone who likes a gentle romance.

Thank you to the author and publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

First of all, I like small town vibes in romances and this one in particular brought it up a notch, because hello, there's a map?!😍  I'm a fantasy reader and I'm always obsessed with maps so this book having a town map made my day.  Then it also has a list of characters which I liked, but I would've preferred a family tree instead, because I sometimes got lost and I dunno who's who😅  The romance itself though was a little bland, not enough chemistry for me and I honestly think that they're not a right fit for each other.  It's very clear that both weren't actually ready for a relationship.  I think the story would've benefitted if the FMC sought therapy as she clearly needed to get her head straight.  The ending was just as expected, and overall a decent read.

A heartwarming and uplifting read from Sarah Bennett.
I loved the setting of a Cornish village.
Main character, Anya, returns to Halfmoon Quay after the death of her husband. She needs a fresh start for her and her daughter.
I loved all the characters in the story. The sense of community was beautiful….wonderful friendships.
Perfect story for fans of found family, second chances and starting over.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

An easy summer read with which to escape to Cornwall. I really loved the dynamic between the tight-knit Penrose family and also the growth of Anya as she rebuilds her life. I thoroughly enjoyed this and hope there will be a sequel to find out more about the Penrose boys - I think this would make a great sitcom!

**Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read an advanced e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own **

I did not realize that this was going to be a series, has Sara Bennett got me hooked with her first book Just the Beginning? Halfmoon Quay is the perfect location for not just a storybook romance but for a vacation and armchair travel. This a sweet read with likable characters. It is about, family, friendship, community trust and starting over.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Just The Beginning by Sarah Bennett is a ideal for readers who like slow-burn, small town, second chance romances. Childhood crushes reunite in this charming town after tragedy and grief strike main character Anya. When Rick finds Anya and her daughter Freys back in town, he offers her a job and support. Family secrets and love follow.

This is my first book by Bennett, and I found their writing relaxing and easy to read. While I could have done without the family drama and just focused on the two main characters, I understand why Bennett made the choices they did for the story. Just wasn’t my cup of tea for the story.

3.75/5 stars.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy in exchange for an honest review.

A fabulous start to a new series that I cannot wait to read. Loved the characters and the setting. Fast becoming a favourite author.

After losing her husband,and finding out she has lost her home, Anya and her daughter Freya decide to move back to Halfmoon Quay and live with her aunt and family.

Rick Penrose is the pillar of the community and always tries to help everyone. He’s a good looking bloke who will do anything for anyone. He hears that his childhood crush Anya is moving back to the Quay for a fresh start.

Anya needs a job and Ricks Uncle needs someone to help run his hotel so this suits everyone. Anya gets to know Rick and realises her soulmate might have been here all along. Rick oversteps the mark with his helping and Anya discovers he’s also been keeping secrets from her. Is this history repeating again for Anya or can she really trust Rick?

Loved it, feels like a great series will come of it. Would be a great tv show too. I loved the Penrose family, really loved Ma, loved the spiky Davy too.
Anya had come home to be supported by her family after the death of her husband and father of her daughter. She needed support and a home. Her extended family swooped in to support her and her daughter. Reconnecting with family she was enjoying friendships lost and making new connexions. Rick one of her cousins cousins and Anya had sparks as soon as they reconnected and Anya discovered she was his unrequited love from their teens. They soon start up a relationship and she has to navigate a relationship as a widow and single mum. This was a gentle read and i cant wait to get more involved in the family. Thankyou netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

Thank your for the chance to read this. If there’s one thing I will always EAT UP, it’s a small town romance. Series lie this, like dream harbor, chestnut springs, etc are some of my favorite romances. Just The Beginning had a great romance, great lead and excellent supporting cast. I will definitely be reading more of this series.

This is the first in a new series and I was very excited to read this book, it did not disappoint, the characters were very well written and likable, the area sounds amazing and I am looking forward to reading more about these characters.

I have read several books with a similar storyline, but this is so well written that I was totally involved with the characters and their lives. Whilst there was no doubt how things would end up, getting there was a real treat.

Anya thought she was living the perfect life – with her handsome husband, beautiful daughter and wonderful house and no lack of money. Only when her husband dies does Anya find out the truth – her perfect life was a house of cards, and build on lies and fraud. Anya has no choice but to move to Halfmoon Quay, where her family give her accommodation for her and her daughter. When she bumps into her old friend Rick, and he organises a job for her at his uncle’s hotel life seems to be finally looking up for Anya. But is Rick just being friendly or does he have an ulterior motive?

A lovely story, with believable characters, and all of whom became like friends, and who I missed when the book was finished. I am hoping for a sequel.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7396670129
https://maddybooksblog.blogspot.com/2025/03/just-beginning-by-sarah-bennett-i-have.html

This is a lovely, cosy - but not twee - story of Anya Stokes and her return to the pretty Cornish village of Halfmoon Quay. Anya’s life has been anything but cosy in recent times and her return to the village is necessitated by the behaviour of her ex-husband (very ex - he died leaving Anya to try and unpick
his financial scams) and although she’s very grateful for the help and support of her extended family and friends, she really doesn’t want to be reliant on anyone.

So when friendly and dependable Rick Penrose finds Anya a job with his great uncle, she’s grateful but initially a little hesitant.

She soon warms to Tony despite his gruff exterior and following yet another friend reminding her that Rick always had had a crush on her, she starts to consider opening her heart again… but then she realises Rick has been keeping a secret from her and she isn’t sure she can trust him, or stay in the Quay after all.

Despite knowing what Anya’s husband did and understanding her reaction, it does feel like an overeaction and is a little annoying but the story is so full of lovely characters and well drawn locations that that is a really minor complaint.

Passed a very pleasant few hours and although it isn’t challenging or especially thought provoking it’s well written and enjoyable and I definitely recommend.

Anya starts to rebuild her life after the death of her husband with the love and support of her family in a coastal Cornish village. She has to stay strong for her young daughter as she renews friendships and starts to make a new life for her little family. Rick has always liked Anya and wants to help her in every way. I enjoyed this story of second chances, overcoming adversity and community support. It introduces a cast of diverse characters and explores family, friendship, secrets and love. I invested in the characters and could visualise the coastal setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Thank you netgalley and publishers for allowing me to read this book, and what a delightful book it is. After the death of her husband, Anya finds herself having to deal with far more than grief. Life for her and her young daughter is about to uprooted and changed forever. A lovely story of families pulling together and supporting each other. Definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.

Just the Beginning by Sarah Bennett, book one in the Halfmoon Quay series is a wonderful, heartwarming, uplifting story of hope and love and second chance, set in the small Cornish village of Halfmoon Quay. Anya rebuilds her life after her husband's death reveals painful secrets, heartbreak and betrayal. With the help of her childhood friend and crush Rick Penrose, she begins to rebuild her life while navigating love, trust, and second chances.

This book is the perfect feel-good escape with well-developed characters, making them feel incredibly real. Their interactions are natural, even the side characters bring warmth and charm to the story, making Halfmoon Quay a place that truly comes to life. I love the warm, inviting vibe of the close-knit community, and the way the residents of Halfmoon Quay support and uplift each other; adding additional depth to the story. Their friendships, small-town charm, and sense of belonging make the setting feel like a place you’d want to visit, filled with friendships, small-town charm, and heartfelt connections. This cozy, uplifting read is perfect for anyone who loves stories about fresh starts and found family. I’ll be looking out for the next story taking place in Halfmoon Quay.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
#NetGalley #Boldwood #JusttheBeginning

Wanted to like this one but just found myself unable to enjoy it. The story was a bit too trite. Anya (friends call her Annie so why not just name the character Annie) was a stubbornly annoying character. She had the emotional age of a teenager. As such she seems to blame all of her life’s problems on others. Not great to read about. I get starting a new series but the map and way too many character descriptions in the front of the book is a bit much. If you have to explain all that you haven’t done a good job as a writer imparting these characters on your reader. I will say though way too many characters were introduced at once. Which made the story feel muddled.

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'Just The Beginning' by Sarah Bennett.

This book is the first book in Sarah's new 'Halfmoon Quay' series and what a gorgeous introduction it is!

Yet another absolute stunner from the extremely talented Sarah!!! Well done Sarah another an absolutely gorgeous and perfect read!! This is the ideal read where you could sit there and turn around and just imagine the beautiful Halfmoon Quay coming to life around you!

I absolutely loved Sarah's 'Juniper Meadows' series so I must admit that I was a bit dubious on how Sarah was going to manage another series that is better or even just as good as that one but there was absolutely no need to fret as Sarah does it yet again and manages to smash it out of the park!! What an absolutely gorgeous introduction to what promises to be another stunning new series by this extremely talented author and I cannot wait to continue my journey with the next book! I am extremely pleased to say that it is already available to preorder on Amazon. It is called 'Everything Changes But You' and will be published on the 7th October so I will be counting down the days! I absolutely LOVE, LOVE LOVED this absolutely gorgeous book which swept me away to the Cornish Coast at the turn of a page! Sarah's absolutely stunning evocative writing skills ensures the readers are absolutely sucked into the stunning storyline with the atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and characters coming to life all around them. In this beautiful introduction to this brand new series Sarah transports her readers to Halfmoon Quay on the Cornish Coast where we meet Anya Stokes and her 4 year old daughter Freya. Anya and Freya move back to Cornwall after her husband Drew died in a car accident and she discovered that not only has her life been a lie but he also left them at risk financially. Anya and Freya moves in with her Aunt, Uncle and Cousin Helen, Ryan and Chloe Penrose. The whole Penrose family welcome Anya and Freya with open arms and they all try to help them to build their new life's at Halfmoon Quay. Rick Penrose is a man that everybody at Halfmoon Quay knows including Anya and he also knows her, especially as Anya was his teenage crush. Rick steps in too help but at times he steps on toes when his over helpful personality backfires on him. Will Anya and Freya be able to build a new life at Halfmoon Quay? Will Anya ever learn to trust again? Well, grab your copy of this absolutely gorgeous page turner today and find out for yourselves. I can promise that you will not regret it!! With a storyline ram packed with romance, friendship, lies, heartache, love, family, drama, deceit, second chances, community and absolutely everything plus much more than you can ever ask for in a page turner what are you waiting for? The storyline itself completely swept me away. I absolutely adored the storyline and getting to know the lives of so many different people, seeing their relationships and friendships change and see how they react to secrets, heartache, changes, romance and everything else that goes on in this absolutely fantastic read!! Discovering Halfmoon Quay I already know that it is going to become a much loved holiday destination where I will look forward to meeting up with old friends and make new ones discovering more about them each and every time I pick up a book in this series. I had been to holiday in Cornwall in March last year where I fell in love with it and missed it before I read this book but OMG Sarah has made me want to jump in the car and go straight back now!!! Thankfully I am returning to St Ives again at the end of next month so I don't have long to wait to return even though after this book it really does feel like I have just this second returned after leaving there!!! Sarah's stunning evocative writing skills ensures the readers are absolutely sucked into the stunning storyline with the atmosphere and characters coming to life all around them.. I absolutely fell in love venturing into Halfmoon Quay and Sarah portrays life in a small town absolutely perfectly. I live in a small village myself and she really has captivated life in a small community absolutely spot on! I became so invested in this book that it actually felt like going on a holiday and I absolutely dreaded coming to the end where I had to unpack my suitcase and get back to reality retuning to wet and dreary Wales. It was an absolutely compelling and addictive heart lifting read that kept me turning the pages until late at night. I loved discovering the pasts and histories of the characters and the community, especially the Penrose family, and I was absolutely swept away in the story line. The Quay came to life around me and I cannot wait to return in the next book in this absolutely stunning series. Sarah ensures the reader sees and hears everything going on as well as falling in love with the characters and the beautiful surroundings. I love the fact that Sarah has included a map of the Quay at the beginning of the book as well as a list of characters, their jobs and relationships with each other. I always find this so helpful in a book, especially when it comes to books in a series, so a MASSIVE thank you to Sarah for including one as they are always brilliantly useful to refer back to in any book. It was an absolutely compelling and addictive heart lifting read that kept me turning the pages until late at night. I loved discovering the pasts and histories of the characters and I was absolutely swept away in the story line. The characters and locations came to life around me in this perfect introduction to what promises top be an addictive new and stunning series that I have very quickly fallen in love with. It has everything you could ask for to lose yourself for several hours. I just could not put it down so make sure you clear your schedules!!!! This book and this series would make a beautiful movie!! This book is an absolutely gorgeous, stunning and addictive addition and finale in this absolutely stunning series!!

Do not turn a single page of this book until you have cleared your schedules and when you do get ready to go on a stunning holiday you will not want to leave!!

I very quickly became completely invested in the new characters, along with the storyline, who were all absolutely fantastic with their own individual personalities and quirks. They all started feeling like friends so quickly and I cannot wait to meet some of them along with new characters in the next book in this stunning series!! The next book is called 'Everything Changes But You' and will be published on the 7th October. When I cane to the end I felt like I was leaving amazing people and friends and feel sad about that! Each of the characters have rich personalities and they will all stay with me for a long time. I absolutely love the fact that Sarah starts the book with a list of all the characters which includes some information on them. This is a fantastic idea and I haven't seen it much and wish more authors would do it. It is very helpful to be able to go back to remind yourself who certain characters are especially when you pick up a book in a series so thank you for this thoughtful addition Sarah!!! This is one of those stunning books where I loved the majority of the characters so much I genuinely could write an essay on them but it would be better for you to meet them for yourself. The fact that Sarah clearly cares about her characters absolutely shines through the pages with the fact that they are so well developed, realistic and every character has a part. I just absolutely adored getting to meet them and I'm looking forward to meeting them all over again in the next books in this series. An absolutely fantastic, unique and memorable group of amazing characters that I wont forget anytime soon!!

Congratulations Sarah on another absolutely gorgeous success!!! I'm definitely looking forward to my next holiday to Halfmoon Quay in the next book in this stunningly promising new series!!! This is exactly why you are in my favourite author club and here is to your next success 🥂 !!!

Overall a perfect, stunning, page turning escapism, with a great gang of characters that will sweep you away to Halfmoon Quay from the very first page to the end by the extremely talented Sarah Bennett!!

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Just the Beginning by Sarah Bennett is a heartwarming and uplifting read that perfectly balances romance, family dynamics, and self-discovery. The characters are relatable, and their emotional journeys feel authentic. I loved the charming small-town setting and the comforting sense of community woven throughout the story.