Sweet Beginnings

A shattered career. A fallen star in search of redemption. A chance meeting that proves a little hope can change everything.

Artist Hope Ryan once dreamed of seeing her work in the world’s top galleries. But after a devastating professional betrayal destroyed her reputation, she retreated to the safety of her hometown. Now, she spends her days creating souvenirs for tourists in Indigo Bay, refusing to step outside her comfort zone—even if her heart longings for the life she left behind.

Former star quarterback Josh Cooper has spent years drowning his bitterness in a bottle after a career-ending football injury. Having finally hit rock bottom, he is now on a grueling path to sobriety and redemption. His journey to make amends leads him cross-country to Indigo Bay, where he encounters a woman who understands what it means to lose everything.

In Josh, Hope finds a kindred spirit whose courage inspires her to finally take charge of her own life. As they navigate the delicate line between friendship and a budding romance, their shared pasts threaten to pull them back into the shadows. Can Hope and Josh find the strength to trust again, or will the fear of repeating old mistakes drive them apart before their new beginning can truly start?

Scroll up and one-click to fall in love with this emotional story of second chances today!

Tropes and vibe list:

– Second chance at life

– Hurt / Comfort

– Fallen star hero (Former Pro Athlete)

– Artist heroine

– Recovery and redemption

– Small-town coastal setting

– Redemption arc
Heat Level: Wholesome Tone: Emotional, Uplifting Series: Prequel to the Berry Lake Cupcake Posse Series Type: Standalone Ending: Guaranteed HEA POV: Dual POV Content Notes: Discussion of past alcoholism/sobriety, career loss, and emotional betrayal

Beach Brides/Indigo Bay Miniseries:
– Book 1: Jenny (Jenny and Dare)

– Book 2: Sweet Holiday Wishes (Lizzy and Mitch)

– Book 3: Sweet Beginnings (Hope and Josh)

– Book 4: Sweet Do-Over (Marley and Von)

– Book 5: Sweet Yuletide (Sheridan and Michael)
Characters from this series also appear in the Berry Lake Cupcake Posse novels.