Sea Glass Christmas, a clean and heartwarming read by David Bunn

Sea Glass Christmas completely swept me away from the very first page. I picked it up expecting to read a few chapters, and before I knew it, I was 70% in—and had finished the entire book in a single day! 📚💨

As someone who has lived in North Carolina and spent time along the coast, I was especially drawn to the setting, and I have to say—it delivered in every way. The author captures the coastal charm, natural beauty, and emotional cadence of the North Carolina shoreline with such authenticity. 🌊🌾 It felt like being transported back to a place I know and love, with vivid imagery and atmosphere that made every scene come alive.

What I appreciated most about Sea Glass Christmas was how seamlessly it wove together themes of friendship, healing from familial trauma, and the long-lasting impact of our childhood experiences. These emotional undercurrents gave the story depth and resonance, while still keeping the tone hopeful and uplifting. It never felt overly heavy—just real and heartfelt in a way that sneaks up on you.

The romance was sweet and tender—maybe a little sudden in places—but it matched the overall warmth of the story and added just the right touch of holiday magic. 💕 I also loved how the writing flowed so naturally. It had that effortless quality that makes it easy to lose yourself in the story.

Publisher’s Synopsis (from Penguin Random House):

A bracing Christmas on North Carolina’s Outer Banks opens the door to a second chance at love. Some places never leave you . . . Two days before his 21st birthday, Brody Reames left the Outer Banks to fulfill his dream of sailing. For years, it’s been a liberating, wayfarer’s life, crewing on ocean‑bound vessels and joining cross‑Atlantic races. He knew leaving his hometown wouldn’t be forever, but to mend a disillusioned heart in Fortunate Harbor, it was for the best. Still, he never expected that a family upheaval and his loving mother’s plea would call him back. With Christmas nearing, Brody is coming home again—to a crisp chill in the air and a warm former flame . . .

Some goodbyes aren’t meant to be forever. Attorney for the Outer Banks’ 5‑star ocean‑front resort and resident treasure hunter, Rae Alden, has a life that is adventurous, rewarding . . . and lonely. Still struggling with recent romances gone wrong, Rae directs all her energy into her career and caring for her ailing aunt, taking respite in dawn runs along the beach. But now, after eight years, she sees Brody again. They share more than a passion for the island realm. There are memories of a lovely once-upon-a-time fling. It lasted until a fateful change of seasons—and heart. Like waves along the Crystal Coast, emotions thought long-gone come rushing back. But with both of them facing family turmoil and secrets yet to be revealed, how promising is a new chance at happiness, no matter how powerful the yearning? For Brody and Rae, this Christmas is all about making wishes come true.

If I had one wish, it would be for a bit more closure at the end. The final chapters felt a little rushed, and I found myself craving just a bit more resolution for the characters I had grown to care about. That said, it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment—just left me wanting more (which isn’t the worst problem to have!).

Sea Glass Christmas is a lovely, cozy, and emotionally satisfying read that’s perfect for curling up with as the weather turns cooler. ❄️✨ It balances heartfelt storytelling with a strong sense of place, and it makes a perfect addition to your holiday reading list.

Publishing September 30th—just in time to welcome the festive season with something warm, reflective, and full of coastal charm. Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC—I’m so glad I got to experience this story early. 💫