A Walk Along the Beach
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Synopsis
Two sisters facing challenging odds must rely on each other more than ever before in a gorgeous new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
Inseparable since the sudden loss of their mother as teenagers, Willa and Harper Lakey are perfect opposites. Quiet, demure Willa has always admired Harper’s sense of fearlessness and adventure, but enjoys her peaceful routine as a café owner in their quaint, coastal hometown of Oceanside, Washington. When a handsome customer shows interest in Willa, Harper urges her sister to take a chance on love–something totally out of Willa’s comfort zone.
But just as Willa begins to explore the possibilities, Harper receives crushing news that threatens to bring everything to a screeching halt. Though the time ahead may be trying, little do Willa and Harper know that it will bring about the most beautiful rewards.
Details
First Published: 2020/07/14Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 9780399181368
Reading Guide:
Download Guide1. Willa is worried when she learns that Harper is planning to climb Mount Rainier. Is there someone in your own life you strive to protect or worry about in this way? Have you ever opened up to him or her about your feelings?
2. Sean initially conceals his past from Willa because he worries that she will learn of his old ways. Do you believe she should have known these details from the start? Why or why not?
3. Bandit is a source of comfort to both Sean and Willa throughout the novel. Have you ever owned a pet that held a special place in your life? Discuss.
4. Willa, Harper, and Lucas’ father struggled with addiction and grief after the death of their mother. When Harper’s cancer returns, he makes a conscious effort to become a supportive fixture in their lives. Did this resonate with you in any way? What did you think of Willa’s response, in particular, to having her father back in her life?
5. A walk along the beach always helps to clear Willa’s mind, allowing her to focus on the situation at hand. Do you have a hobby or a happy place that provides you with the same sense of peace and guidance?
6. Caring for Harper forces Willa to step away from her café, Bean There, and she contemplates closing its doors for good. Think of a time you had to sacrifice something to help someone you love. What did you learn from the experience? Looking back, would you have handled it differently?
7. Despite Sean’s dedication to his work, he feels guilty that he cannot be with Willa when she needs him most. Have you ever experienced a conflict between your professional life and your professional life? Explain.
8. A Walk Along the Beach largely takes place in quaint Oceanside, Washington, a small town with a strong sense of community. Talk about your hometown. How did it shape you, and in what ways?
9. Compare and contrast Willa’s character at the start of the novel versus the end of the novel. How did you see her evolve?