A Day of Celebration: *Beach House Rules* is Officially Out!

Today is a day I’ve eagerly awaited! I am absolutely thrilled to announce that my twelfth novel, Beach House Rules, is officially making its way out into the world. Every book launch is a momentous occasion, but this one feels particularly special, weaving together heartwarming tales of resilience, unexpected twists, and the profound strength of female bonds.

An Invigorating Blend of Coastal Charm, Intrigue, and Sisterhood

In Beach House Rules, I set out to craft a story that marries the beloved family dynamics reminiscent of Full House with the captivating drama and glamour of Gossip Girl. The result is a vibrant narrative brimming with sunshine, a touch of scandal, and the unwavering power of sisterhood that lifts us up when life’s currents feel too strong to navigate alone. It’s a compelling journey that invites readers to experience the transformative power of community.

The novel introduces you to Charlotte and Iris, a mother-daughter duo whose lives take an unforeseen turn. Along with a diverse group of other women and children who unexpectedly enter their lives, they quickly discover that even the most meticulously planned lives can deviate from the script. Yet, it is often in these unplanned detours that true magic unfolds, fostering growth, self-discovery, and new connections that are more precious than anything imagined.

My greatest hope is that this gossipy, yet deeply heartwarming, tale will serve as a delightful escape, transporting readers straight to the calming shores of the beach. Beyond the escape, I wish for it to evoke warmth and nostalgia, prompting readers to reflect with a smile on the cherished people who hold the most significant places in their hearts.

The Enchanting Setting: A Magical Waterfront Home Comes to Life

A compelling setting is paramount to any novel, acting as an additional character that shapes the narrative. In Beach House Rules, the “mommune” – the vibrant community at the story’s core – is depicted as a beautiful, charming, and truly magical waterfront home. As an author, when I conceptualize the intricate details of homes within my stories, I frequently seek inspiration from the captivating pages of Design Chic, which consistently fuels my creative vision.

The ultimate inspiration for the “mommune” sprang from a discovery within Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Magazine: a magnificent home meticulously designed by the renowned Jackye Lanham, whose artistry was captured with stunning precision by Emily Followill. This particular residence immediately resonated with me as the quintessential backdrop for Charlotte and Iris’s evolving journey, embodying the perfect blend of elegance and comfort that such a communal living space would require.

A Tour of Jackye Lanham’s Coastal Masterpiece: Where Southern Charm Meets Modern Sophistication

This exquisite waterfront property, a true hallmark of Jackye Lanham’s brilliant and distinctive style, effortlessly blends the timeless elegance of Southern traditional design with sleek, contemporary updates. It achieves a delicate balance, being simultaneously cozy enough for the intimate moments of family life and polished enough to host stylish entertaining with ease. Every space within this home tells a rich story, adorned with carefully selected treasures accumulated over a lifetime, reflecting a history as layered and fascinating as the characters in my novel.

As you virtually step inside this captivating residence, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate how Lanham’s design philosophy permeates every corner. The living areas are designed to invite relaxation and foster genuine conversation, with plush, comfortable furnishings set against a soothing color palette that subtly echoes the coastal environment without resorting to overt nautical themes. Expansive windows frame breathtaking views of the water, seamlessly bringing the natural beauty of the outdoors inside and bathing every room in glorious natural light. This thoughtful integration of indoors and outdoors creates an atmosphere of continuous tranquility and connection.

The kitchen, often considered the vibrant heart of any home, is a true culinary dream – both highly functional and exceptionally stylish. It provides the ideal setting for shared meals, impromptu gatherings, and the communal spirit I envisioned thriving within the “mommune.” Similarly, the dining areas, whether for formal occasions or casual breakfasts, are thoughtfully designed for creating unforgettable memories, fostering deep connections, and celebrating life’s milestones. This harmonious fusion of practicality and luxury ensures that the house, much like the resilient characters in my novel, is perfectly equipped for both the rhythms of daily life and the challenges of extraordinary circumstances.

The bedrooms serve as serene sanctuaries of peace and privacy, each meticulously designed with an emphasis on both comfort and refined elegance, offering a tranquil escape from the world. Throughout the home, intricate details—from carefully selected artwork and curated decorative pieces to bespoke furnishings—underscore Lanham’s masterful attention to detail and her remarkable ability to create spaces that feel profoundly personal, welcoming, and endlessly inspiring. This is more than just a house; it’s a cherished dwelling, imbued with history and ready to embrace new stories—precisely the kind of transformative setting I envisioned for the unfolding drama of Beach House Rules.

This remarkable residence isn’t merely a feast for the eyes; it perfectly encapsulates the aspirational yet relatable atmosphere I aimed to create within my novel. It represents a sanctuary where women can forge new lives, offer unwavering support to one another, and rediscover their true selves amidst life’s inevitable challenges. The thoughtful and intentional design cultivates an environment that champions both individual independence and a powerful sense of community, truly mirroring the very heart and soul of the “mommune” concept that drives the narrative.

Dive Deeper into *Beach House Rules* by Kristy Woodson Harvey

“Southern bestselling sensation” (Katie Couric Media) Kristy Woodson Harvey makes a triumphant return with a delightfully moving new novel about a mother-daughter duo learning to lean on their extraordinary community of women—and each other—after their world is unexpectedly turned upside down.

When Charlotte Sitterly’s seemingly perfect life shatters with her husband’s arrest for a white-collar crime, she and her daughter Iris find themselves not only locked out of their home by the FBI but also tragically thrust into the unforgiving spotlight of @JuniperShoresSocialite, the town’s notoriously snarky anonymous Instagram account. Cut off from her financial resources and feeling utterly desperate, Charlotte accepts an acquaintance’s offer to stay at a charming beachfront former bed-and-breakfast. This unique establishment, known as the “mommune,” is home to an unconventional community of single mothers and, naturally, is the subject of plenty of gossip in the small coastal North Carolina town.

Amidst their challenging circumstances, Charlotte and Iris unexpectedly find profound solace and are surprised by how much joy and camaraderie they discover with the other families at the mommune. However, their burgeoning sense of belonging is tested when the women uncover a secret link connecting them all. This revelation fundamentally alters everything they thought they knew about the unconventional family they’ve created, leaving them to question whether their coming together was a mere coincidence or part of a grander design. Will the secrets hidden within the mommune closets help Charlotte and Iris reclaim their standing in the Juniper Shores community—or irrevocably shatter the sisterhood they’ve come to cherish?

“Perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Jennifer Weiner” (Country Living), Beach House Rules is more than just a summer read; it’s a charming and insightful exploration into the pure joy of enduring friendship, the true, multifaceted meaning of family, and the empowering journey of reclaiming the ability to reshape one’s own destiny. It’s a testament to the fact that even in the face of adversity, new beginnings are always possible.

The intricate layers of character development within Beach House Rules are thoughtfully designed to resonate deeply with readers from all walks of life. Charlotte, initially overwhelmed and isolated by her changed circumstances, finds herself navigating an entirely new environment that challenges her deeply held notions of what family and security truly entail. Iris, grappling with the tumultuous upheaval of her teenage years, discovers unexpected new friendships and a profound sense of belonging among the diverse group of children at the “mommune.” Their shared experiences, which are both wonderfully humorous and profoundly poignant, vividly highlight the transformative power of vulnerability, shared struggles, and unwavering mutual support.

Furthermore, the novel delicately delves into the complexities of community dynamics and the often-harsh judgments cast upon individuals who choose to live unconventional lives. The “mommune,” while serving as a safe and nurturing haven for its residents, simultaneously becomes a focal point for local gossip, especially fueled by the anonymous @JuniperShoresSocialite account. This intriguing element adds a delicious layer of mystery, social commentary, and suspense, inviting readers to ponder the true essence of acceptance and the profound strength discovered in courageously embracing one’s authentic self, even in the face of public scrutiny.

Indeed, every meticulously crafted space in this gorgeous waterfront home, from the sun-drenched, expansive living areas to the serene and tranquil bedrooms, is truly “dripping with Lanham’s fabulous, signature style,” as eloquently described. It is this unparalleled attention to detail and her remarkable ability to infuse each space with a distinct sense of place and personality that elevates the inspirational home to a character in its own right, perfectly complementing and enriching the narrative of Beach House Rules. Readers will undoubtedly feel as though they are not just reading a story, but rather walking alongside Charlotte and Iris through the charming “mommune,” experiencing its undeniable allure, its carefully guarded secrets, and its enduring, captivating magic firsthand.

Join the Beach House Rules Journey!

A heartfelt and immense thank you goes out to each and every one of you who has already pre-ordered or ordered BEACH HOUSE RULES! Your unwavering support means the absolute world to me. And a huge, sincere appreciation is extended to everyone who has taken the time to visit me on tour, whether we’ve met in real life or connected virtually. Seeing your friendly faces, hearing your insights, and sharing moments with you is, without a doubt, the absolute best and most rewarding part of being on the road and sharing my stories with the world.

For those eager to dive even deeper into the compelling world of Charlotte, Iris, and the captivating “mommune,” you can explore more aboutBEACH HOUSE RULESand its enchanting story here.

Ready to escape to the idyllic Juniper Shores and immerse yourself in this unforgettable tale of resilience, unexpected friendships, and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood? Don’t wait—your perfect beach read awaits!

PREORDER YOUR COPY OF BEACH HOUSE RULES HERE!