Beach vibes

Beth, newly divorced, and Jana, a single mom, meet while volunteering at the local food bank and become friends, but their friendship is tested when they date each other's brothers and become caught up in a drama of unexpected revelations, hurt feelings, and family loyalties. Per her usual, Mallery ("Mischief Bay" and "Happily Inc." series; One Big Happy Family), a queen of romance, populates her novel with believable, flawed protagonists; in this case, two women who are overcoming setbacks from their past, plus a lively cast of supporting characters, such as Kai, a young surfer who imparts wise advice. The sunny California setting (surfers, actors, and lunches on the beach) compliments the hopeful vibe that is Mallery's trademark, even as characters deal with serious issues. There are some brief but steamy bedroom scenes, humorous exchanges, and surprising turns that will have readers asking themselves what they would do in that situation. VERDICT Multi-published Mallery is at her best here. This is a fast read that's sure to delight her fans and provoke discussion for book clubs.--Sonia Reppe