‘New Uses For Old Boyfriends’: A light romance for Valentine’s Day weekend

After reading two books with depressing characters, I was ready for a light, fun read. I knew Beth Kendrick wouldn't disappoint.

In Kendrick's fictional town of Black Dog Bay on the coast of Delaware, women flee to recover from breakups. There they can drown sorrows at the Whinery and burn memories in the Better Off Bed and Breakfast bonfire.

In her book, 'Cure for the Common Breakup,” Kendrick introduced us to the women of Black Dog Bay. She has brought some of them back in her newest novel: 'New Uses for Old Boyfriends.”

In 'New Uses for Old Boyfriends,” we meet Lila, a local girl who returns home after losing her celebrity job, fancy house and rich husband. Her father recently died, and she is hoping to comfort her mom, as well as be comforted herself.

Unfortunately, her father left a lot of things for her mom to tidy up. Lila realizes there is a lot more to deal with than her mom has let on. They are in serious financial trouble.

As Lila tries to rebuild her life, her mom makes things more difficult.

Lila finds her mom's closets and storage units are full of vintage dresses from her modeling days.

Lila wants to start a business, selling the clothes and accessories in a vintage dress shop on the boardwalk. But her mom refuses to give them up.

While Lila is trying to reinvent her life, bail them out of financial ruin and find some hope, an old high school boyfriend returns to Black Dog Bay. Will they get the second chance they never got in high school?

Kendrick knows how to have fun with a story and understands the importance of likable characters. Short chapters and a fast-paced storyline keep readers turning the pages.

Even though the outcome is a bit predictable, the ride there is fun. There's even has an unexpected twist at the end. This book is a quick read perfect for an airplane ride to the beach or a weekend curled up while a winter storm is blowing outside.

Fans of chick-lit, light romance, friendships and happy endings will find Kendrick's books enjoyable.

This book can stand alone, but will be much more enjoyable if you are familiar with the characters introduced in the first trip to Black Dog Bay in 'Cure for the Common Breakup.”