Thank you Scribner #partner, for the advanced copy of The Same Bright Stars in exchange for my honest review. I purchased the audiobook for my collection.
Publisher: Scribner / Simon & Schuster Audio
Published: July 2, 2024
Summary:
Three generations of Schmidts have run their family’s beachfront restaurant, and Jack has been at the helm since his father’s death. He puts the demands of the restaurant above all else, with a string of failed relationships, no hobbies, and no days off as proof of his commitment to the place. He can’t remember the last time he sat on the beach or enjoyed a moment to himself.
Meanwhile, the DelDine group has been snapping up beloved eateries along this stretch of coast, and it is pursuing Jack with a very generous offer to take Schmidt’s off his hands. Jack craves companionship and maybe even a family. He wonders whether closing the door on the restaurant might open a window for him—but who would he be without Schmidt’s, and can he trust DelDine’s claims that it will continue to employ his staff and honor his family’s legacy?
My thoughts:
I have been a fan of Ethan Joella’s books since his debut and with each one I read, I fall more in love with his writing. They just resonate so emotionally with me, especially this one after all I have gone through this year.
This book, unlike his previous two, is told through a single POV but I found myself still completely invested in Jack’s story. I felt his struggles, was rooting for him all the way and loved that his character was so fully fleshed out. Even the secondary characters felt real and relatable…a trait I have come to count on when reading this author. This is a story that not only will tug at those heartstrings a few times, but will have you thinking about your own life…it’s quite thought-provoking.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It’s a great book to pick up as the summer is winding down and would make an excellent book club choice – there is so much to discuss.
And I have to share…my dad recently discovered this author and is just loving him, too! I love that and love that he discovered Ethan’s books in Rehoboth Beach where this book takes place! He was able to find some signed copies at the independent bookstore there.
Audio thoughts:
As I have with Ethan’s previous books, I listened to this one and absolutely loved the narration. The narrator was absolutely fantastic. Chris Henry Coffey really did an amazing job bringing this story to life.
Purchasing from the link below supports independent bookstores and my blog!
