The Boardwalk Antiques Shop (A Tangerine Street Romance Book 2)

Jennifer Day plans to sell the antique shop inherited from her aunt and contacts realtor Paul Studly. She keeps the place open while it is on the market and learns the business from antiques dealer Henry Lancaster. Boardwalk Antiques is known for the story attached to each item, so it is strange that a glass bottle displayed behind the counter doesn’t have one. However, it makes sense that, when there is a dispute over whether Abbie Lake or Holden Stratton should take some toy soldiers, a story decides the winner. Jennifer also insists that Henry find out the story of a 1926 Singer sewing machine, meant as a birthday present for his mother, a plan which is complicated when he meets Cate Pierpont.

This is a collection of three shorter stories that can be read independently: the first sets the stage; the second involves a repeat customer and an uptight tourist; the third deals with a second customer and the aftermath of her grandmother's death. All three stories, which take place in Seashell Beach and the LA area, are straight-forward from a romance angle. Though the pace isn’t slow, predictability leads the reader to concentrate on the interesting people instead. Keep an eye on Abbie. This book highlights the human spirit’s ability to learn from, and heal after, loss.

Heather R. Nielsen