Book Review: Meet Me at the Seaside Cottages by Jenny Colgan
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Jenny Colgan’s Meet Me at the Seaside Cottages is a heartwarming, delightful escape to the coastal village of Carso, offering the perfect blend of love, family dynamics, and personal growth. If you're a fan of stories where characters find themselves (and sometimes love) amidst the rolling waves of the sea, this is a book you won't want to miss.

The story centers around Janey Carter, a woman who, despite having the life she’s worked hard for—an idyllic home by the sea, a fulfilling career, and great friends—finds herself lost after her husband’s departure. But her world is turned upside down when her adult daughter, Essie, moves back home after a string of misfortunes. Their strained relationship and differing life stages create a dynamic that’s both touching and comical.

What makes this novel so special is how Colgan brings the setting to life. The seaside cottages, which Janey begins to renovate, serve as a metaphor for the characters' journeys. The physical restoration of these cottages parallels the emotional healing both Janey and Essie undergo, and the charm of the coastal town makes the entire experience feel like a breath of fresh sea air.

The relationship between Janey and Essie is one of the most compelling aspects of the book. As they navigate their personal challenges, their interactions grow from tension to tenderness. Janey is rediscovering herself after her divorce, and Essie is confronting her own issues, including her failed relationship and career struggles. Their shared experiences and new adventures bring them closer, making this a wonderful story of reconciliation and love.

In addition to the mother-daughter bond, Colgan introduces a lovely romance subplot that adds another layer of warmth to the narrative. Janey, after years of feeling disconnected from love, finds a surprising second chance at romance, which is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late for new beginnings.

The secondary characters—like the quirky villagers and the adorable rescue dogs—add charm and lightness, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes the reader feel like they’re right there on the Cornish coast. The light humor and feel-good moments sprinkled throughout the book are perfectly balanced with the deeper emotional themes of personal reinvention and healing.

Final Thoughts:
Meet Me at the Seaside Cottages is a perfect blend of romance, family, and personal growth set against the picturesque backdrop of the sea. Jenny Colgan’s signature warmth and wit shine through in every page, making it a must-read for fans of uplifting and heartwarming stories. Whether you’re looking for a story about second chances, mother-daughter relationships, or simply an escape to a charming coastal village, this book has it all. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m sure you won’t be able to either!