The Seaside Book Club by Helen Rolfe

I’m an absolute sucker for a story centred around book clubs or bookshops — and this one had both, so I was hooked from the start. The fact I read it in just three days says everything about how much I enjoyed it. I simply couldn’t put it down. This isn’t my first Helen Rolfe book, and I’m certain it won’t be my last.

Howard and his wife Bonnie have recently moved to Dorset. Howard, a devoted reader, joins a midnight book club with members scattered across the UK and Australia. Bonnie isn’t a reader herself, but she supports his passion wholeheartedly — including his decision to buy the local bookshop to save it from developers. Margot, trapped in a miserable marriage she stayed in for the sake of her boys, relies on the Midnight Book Club as her lifeline, sneaking down to the basement at night so her husband won’t forbid it. Faye runs the group, having taken over from her aunt, but she’s dealing with her own troubles as her twin sister’s questionable choices spill over into her life. When Howard suddenly disappears from the Book Club, Margot and Faye decide they have no choice but to check on him — a decision that changes everything.

What really made this story shine for me were the wonderfully drawn characters and the stunning Dorset scenery that frames their journeys. Helen Rolfe captures the coastline with such vivid warmth that you can almost feel the sea breeze, and she brings each character to life with empathy and charm. It’s a heartfelt, uplifting read that celebrates community, connection and the quiet magic of places — and people — that help you find your way, especially when new beginnings and second chances are waiting just around the corner.

 

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8588694967