The Seaside Sisters: two sisters and a summer that could change their lives forever

The Seaside Sisters by Pamela M. Kelley is a story of two sisters and one summer that changes everything. Hannah Brewster just hit the New York Times bestseller’s list with her debut novel. While she is rejoicing, she is also panicking as she is struggling to write her follow up novel and the clock is ticking. Sara Ellis is Hannah’s older sister and lives in their hometown. Once a dedicated librarian, she feels trapped in a lukewarm marriage and four rambunctious boys and dreams of getting back to work. After a panic attack due to stress brings Hannah home to Chatham, she hopes staying in the seaside town will get the creative juices flowing. Sara hopes the summer brings an opportunity to get back into the workforce and possibly reignite the flame in her marriage. With the healing magic of books and the beach, will the summer be filled with friends and rekindled romance? 

After enjoying The Bookshop by the Bay, I looked forward to The Seaside Sisters as it takes place in Chatham. I was intrigued by the opening chapter as Hannah is having her panic attack and the sisters are dealing with their mother’s recent death. However, the story felt flat as the events converged in Chatham and nothing much happened. The writing wasn’t as engaging or flowing as The Bookshop by the Bay. I had a hard time relating to Hannah and Sara. I enjoy characters who are writers and seeing their process; however, Hannah wasn’t an engaging character. As a married stay at home mom, I found it very hard to relate to Sara. Overall, the story was okay but lackluster. The romance was not swoon worthy. The conflicts in the plot had no real action. However, if you are a fan of Pamela M. Kelley, you may enjoy The Seaside Sisters. 

The Seaside Sisters is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook and audiobook