Cover Image: The Little Theatre on the Seafront

The Little Theatre on the Seafront

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Member Reviews

This was a really easy read that kept me turning the page and disappointed any time I had to put it down. The characters were wonderfully developed and the premise was heart-warming where you couldn't help but feel at ease when you were engrossed in it.

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Sid and Lottie have been best friends for years, but will they ever be more than just friends?

After Lottie's nan dies, Lottie end up taking over as chair for the Greenley Theatre. Can she rejuvenate the theatre as her Nan wanted her to, and also give herself a new lease of life?

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Lovely feel good summer read. What’s not to love sun sea and sadly ur reading about it instead of living it. Easy to read and flowed well. Perfect summer book

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Having spent alot of time in and around theatres i do love a theatre read, oh and one on a seafront is just even more up my street, all it needs is a small nearby cafe and we are sorted!

Anyway, i digress - When Lottie's Gran passes away, she leaves her a letter with one last request. Save Greenley Theatre , become chair woman and basically fix it. Lottie has been pretty happy with her life so far, her little job and plodding along. Lotties Gran however had different ideas she wants to push her out of her comfort zone.

Fixing Greenley Theatre is a mammoth task, especially when most people think it would be easier to knock it down and build houses but Lottie can't let her gran down with Sid (her lifelong best friend) by her side what could go wrong?

Turns out, quite alot throw in a suave businessman who is actually interested in Lottie, Sid finds a girlfriend and the Greenley Players are constantly at each others throats - it throws everything she has worked so hard for up in the air.

This read was brilliant, it had enough drama to keep me interested, a love interest or two and plenty of theatre talk. It was light enough that i could read it quickly and invest my time but not heavy enough that it weighed on my mind.

I really liked Lottie, i felt she was shy and needed the push out of her comfort zone so i totally backed her Gran on this one. I was rooting for her along with the town of Greenley, even when things were not so certain. Sid made me laugh, he was sweet geeky and has a good heart but at times i wanted to shake him senseless.

If you are after something that is sweet, funny and packed full of quirky characters then this is the one for you!

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A good read that I’d recommend to anyone. You’ll be hooked fairly quickly and want to see what happens. With characters you will love, definitely one Id read again.

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Sometimes you just need to read about everything going wrong. And then coming back together. In the slowest way possible - of course. And that's what The Little Theatre on the Seafront is here for!

The story
When Lottie’s Gran dies she leaves one last request; save Greenley Theatre.

Faced with a decaying building, a mayor who most definitely isn’t on board with the project and a group of actors who just can’t get along, Lottie has her hands full, but with best friend Sid by her side she knows she can do it somehow.

But the arrival of Jeremy, a hotshot London developer who sweeps Lottie off her feet, complicates things. Suddenly Sid gets a new girlfriend, the Greenley Players fall apart, and that crumbling building? Well it crumbles a whole lot more. With no one to turn to, Lottie has to find the courage to save the day.

The opinion
So, you know how sometimes you come across these books that you just know: yes, this will be good. Well, that was me on the first page of this one. It's not always a completely fun read, I'll give it that. But that's literally just because it's so real. The amount of social awkwardness Lottie and Sid share between the two of them? It's honestly a miracle they ever get anything done. 

Now, it's fairly clear from the beginning how things might go - I say might, because, well. Honestly, Katie Ginger seriously had me doubting these two would ever get their *ish together and get together. For real.

The growth the two main characters go through is astounding. That being said, what I maybe loved even more? The evolution the theatre-group goes through. You see, too often people just *magically* come together and manage to get stuff done. It tends to annoy me because, honestly - that's just not how life works! And guess what? That's not what happens here either. Seeing how this group of total strangers (or, in some cases, people that consciously move to annoy each other) grow as a group? That's the kind of stuff I'm here for!

The rating: 3/5
If you're in the market for a fun read that has just enough depth to keep you absolutely hooked? Preferably while also giving you the kind of characters that will get you overly invested in a fictional story? Then this is pretty much the book for you! (Find it on Goodreads)

-Saar

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I loved the setting for this story and the basic premise of trying to resurrect the local theatre for the community. It is the community which gives the book its life and colour and the variety of members of the company and the local politicians give it real heart. Lottie turns out to be one of those characters with flaws as well as good points and you get to see her mature and take on challenges along the way.

Someone who is always present in the story but who we can never meet is of course Lottie's Grandmother. You get a sense of what sort of person she was by seeing how Lottie reacts in certain moments and I am sure she shared Lottie's determination and spark. This is very much a will they, won't they? plot as you see Lottie and Sid skirt around their true feelings. I enjoyed the additional aspect which their jobs on the local newspaper gave to moving the story on. This is one of those lovely reads which you disappear into for an afternoon and which takes you out of yourself.

In short: A beautiful setting, friendship and community lie at the heart of this book.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

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Fab book love the plot very inspiring story great character they become your friend and family you want to be there wirh them

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This is a pleasant little read for a cosy afternoon or two on the sofa.

Lottie goes on a mission to save the seafront theatre in her nan's memory. I rather enjoyed the innocence of this in the fast paced modern day world. The theatre was well described and I started to think how wonderful it would be to photograph somewhere like that, when Lottie thought it herself.

I liked Lottie's character, someone who was terribly insecure but went on to achieve something and I enjoyed her relationship with Sid.

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A fantastic easy read perfect for a cosy afternoon on the sofa or holiday read. I loved Lottie and Sid and their surrounding brilliant cast of quirky and eccentric characters. A fascinating setting in a crumbling theatre. I loved the community spirit which came together to save the theatre and fulfil Lottie's granny's last wish.

An uplifting and heartwarming story which is sad in places and also made me smile - it is a delightful book. I can't wait to read Katie Ginger's next book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

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This is a very cutesy book, but unfortunately it is forgettable and predictable.

I started reading it hoping for something along the lines of "The Lido", but unfortunately it was very formulaic and unremarkable.
It had potential to be a well rounded, heartwarming tale but unfortunately just fell short of the mark. I think for this book to succeed, there needs to be something unique to it. As it is, it reads like something I'd read on a plane and ultimately forget.

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What an absolute cracker of a book this one is, once I immersed myself into this book, I had to finish it before I could return to the real world. Everything about it I loved, the characters, the setting, the drama and the romance. Yes, it is a little predictable but it was the perfect escape and took my mind off real life.

Lottie is determined to fulfill her Gran’s last wish, to save Greenley Theatre and bring it back to life. With her friend Sid, she worms herself into the middle of the committee much to the Mayor’s dismay. What follows next is a funny and entertaining journey from getting onto the committee to getting people involved in the theatre itself.

I loved Lottie as a character, I could understand her feelings and fears and I was cheering her along to save the theatre. Sid is also a brilliant character, there were times when he did infuriate me but he was well-written I did forgive him! There are some other fabulous and eccentric characters in this book, all of which have their own distinct personalities that come through the pages.

Katie’s writing style is easy to read and friendly, I felt like I was sitting down with an old friend whilst I was reading it. It flows beautifully and the pages soon start flying by. I quickly started to care about the characters and the setting was just stunning. I loved the descriptions of not only the theatre and the sights/smells that would have been present but also of the town itself. The restaurants, cafes and bars are wonderfully described and I could really picture what it would be like in the town.

The Little Theatre on the Seafront is a fun, enjoyable, believable and entertaining read that is perfect to read one afternoon. If you’re a fan of romance, drama and books about friendship then this one is for you. I can’t wait to see what Katie will write next! A strong and brilliant debut novel, I’m impressed!

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This was a gorgeous debut novel from Katie Ginger. She has a lovely engaging writing style, creating wonderfully interesting characters and a fascinating setting. You can picture yourself in Greenley on Sea and I would love to return in future books. It was a real page turner where you are invested in the characters and the future of the theatre.
Lottie's nan left a request that she rescue the local theatre and ensure it's future for the local community. You can almost smell the stardust in the air and imagine yourself sitting in the stalls watching the latest production.
It is always exciting to find a new author that you would love to read more from and I will be watching out for new books by Katie Ginger.

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This debut novel was a joy to read. I fell in love with Greenley-on-sea, a quaint seaside town with a big heart and a true passion for their little theatre.

Lottie and Sid are instantly likeable characters and I was glued to the spot watching their relationship develop throughout the book in a page-turning frenzy. But I particularly enjoyed the Greenley players as a whole cast. Their theatrical highs and lows brought the book to life, in such a charismatic way, that only a local am dram company can and they gave me many reasons to laugh at their dramatic antics.

A special element to the book comes in the form of Lottie's nan. A character who is brought to our attention at the beginning of the book, via a letter only, yet her presence is still felt with great heart throughout as notes of their close relationship dance and weave amongst the storyline. This I felt added a layer of emotional charm and brought a tear to my eye at one point.

This is an utterly charming book that is uplifting and easy to read and I found it hard to walk away from the characters. I hope I get to visit Greenley-on-sea again in the near future.

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The Little Theatre is the heartwarming debut from author, Katie Ginger. For me, this is the perfect read for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Just imagine it - jammies on (a must) and tucked up with your favourite blankie. Plus, copious amounts of tea and biccies #bliss So, that’s just what I did (any excuse, I hear you cry).

How do you argue with a behest from beyond the grave? *shrugs* You don’t...

Still trying to come to terms with her nan’s recent passing, Lottie Webster is left reeling from Elsie’s last request: save the local theatre and return it to its former glory at the heart of the community.

Easier said than done, right? *shakes head* With her best friend, Sid, by her side, Lottie embarks on undertaking the daunting task. Goliath, we’re coming for ya! *cracks knuckles*

It’s easy to deny your true feelings when you’ve been best friends’ forever, but with the arrival of potential partners for both Lottie and Sid, it makes denying them harder and harder.

Maybe there is method in Lottie’s nan’s madness after all, eh?

Low on angst, but high on feels, The Little Theatre has a host of colourful characters. Or, should I say, lovies? *snorts*

Like any good dramatic production, you’ll boo and hiss at the baddies (especially sleekit Selena!). You’ll belly laugh - check out Sid and the Seagulls scene. And, of course, you’ll feel a bit mushy, and if you’re like me, you’ll shed an emotional tear of two (whaaa?).

To me, the heart of the story is about belonging. Lottie finds more than she can ever have imagined within the walls of The Little Theatre.

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This is, quite simply, a lovely book. The characters are endearing, the setting is idyllic and reading The Little Theatre on the Seafront is pure escapism.

Read the full review on The Overdue Book Review, here: https://theoverduebookreview.wordpress.com/2018/09/10/book-review-the-little-theatre-on-the-seafront-by-katie-ginger/

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‘The Little Theatre On The Seafront’ is Katie Ginger’s debut novel and what a debut novel it is. I absolutely loved reading it but more about that in a bit.
I took to the main character, Lottie, right from the very first time I met her. She is a girl, who hasn’t always had the easiest of times. Her Nana brought Lottie up, after Lottie’s mother decided to go and live with Lottie’s father, who works abroad. As a result Lottie has a very tight bond with her Nana. Lottie is understandably devastated when her Nana dies but her Nana wrote her a letter before she died telling her what she wanted Lottie to do. Her Nana also told Lottie a couple of home truths in the letter but Lottie later accepts that what her Nana put in the letter. Lottie is a feisty and determined young woman, who likes nothing better than chilling with her friends. Her best friend is called Sid and she works closely with him for the local newspaper. There’s definitely some romantic spark between them but neither tells the other one about their feelings. I got the impression that Lottie lacks a fair bit of self confidence in herself and she finds it daunting to live her life without her Nana beside her. Lottie is determined that she will carry out her Nana’s wishes, even if she has to jump some hurdles along the way. One of those such hurdles happens to be the local Mayor, who likes to lord if over the theatre committee. Things start to go wrong Lottie & Sid start seeing different people and don’t spend as much time with each other, the theatre starts crumbling and the amateur dramatics group seems to wither away. Will Lottie realise her Nana’s dream? Will Lottie and Sid get together? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my this book is just as beautiful and eye catching as the cover suggests. I loved the synopsis of the book and I knew that this was one book that I couldn’t wait to read. I was hooked from the moment I began to read the Prologue and I was under the book’s spell until the moment I closed the back cover. ‘The Little Theatre On The Seafront’ is certainly addictive reading. I was hooked from the first word on the first page. For me, ‘The Little Theatre On The Seafront’ really is a ‘CPID’ (can’t put it down) book. It wasn’t glued to my hand although if you had seen me whilst I was reading it, then you would have thought otherwise. The book came everywhere with me as I couldn’t bear to be parted from it. If I had to put the book down for any reason, then I was counting down the time until I could pick the book back up again.
‘The Little Theatre On The Seafront’ is beautifully and sensitively written. I found it hard to believe that it was the author’s debut novel as it is so good and so polished. I felt myself getting emotional about the book from the moment I started to read the prologue. It takes the form of a letter from Nana to Lottie and it just got to me. It was written in such a lovely way that I found myself getting a lump in my throat. As I took to Lottie so soon and so well, I felt defensive and protective of her.
‘The Little Theatre On The Seafront’ has to be one of my top ten books of 2018. I loved everything about the book from the setting to the characters and so on. I can’t wait to see what Katie Ginger comes up with next and I know that it will be another cracking read. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

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When Lottie's beloved gran dies, Lottie is persuaded, against her better judgement to take over one of her gran's good causes, namely to save the dilapidated old Greenley Theatre. With the best of intentions, Lottie, with the help of her friend, Sid, tries to inject some enthusiasm into the project but there are so many obstacles and grouchy people in the way that poor Lottie has her work cut out from the very start.

I found much to enjoy in The Little Theatre on the Seafront. It's a delightfully perceptive look at life and love, the power of friendship, and of the steely determination needed to carry on when all around you is floundering. I really loved the author's light and easy style of writing and the way that she allowed her characters to come to life. They're an odd bunch to be sure, making me laugh out loud at some of their antics, particularly the actors themselves who aren't always very helpful! I enjoyed watching how they all developed as the story progressed and especially of how Lottie grew in confidence.

Without doubt this is a charming debut and I hope we will see much more of Katie Ginger's writing in future stories.

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I really enjoyed this story, it was uplifting and heart-warming!

I really warmed to the characters in the story very early on and I was routing for them as I read he book and I loved the setting – it was perfect.

The writing style was spot on and the author really brought the story to life – and I love that cover – it is beautiful!

It is very well written and it is a perfect story to read over the autumn months wrapped up warm in a blanket with a warm drink – bliss for me!

Four stars from me for this one, a really pleasant read and an excellent debut!

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This is a lovely summer read for all romantics to take and enjoy while on holiday, especially if by the sea .Even from the grave one person can influence another to greater things. A true romance that is obvious to readers who want to shout at the two main characters to open t6heir eyes!

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