The Same Bright Stars

A Novel

By: Ethan Joella

Narrated by: Chris Henry Coffey

From the author of the Read with Jenna Bonus Pick A Little Hope, an uplifting and emotionally resonant novel set in a Delaware beach town about a local restaurant owner at a turning point.

Three generations of Schmidts have run their family’s beachfront restaurant and Jack has been at the helm since the death of his father. Jack puts the demands of the restaurant above all else, with a string of failed relationships, no hobbies, and no days off as proof of his commitment to the place. He can’t remember the last time he sat on the beach, or even enjoyed a moment to himself.

Meanwhile, the DelDine group has been gradually snapping up beloved eateries along this stretch of coast and are pursuing Jack with a very generous offer to take Schmidt’s off his hands.

Jack craves companionship and maybe even a family. He wonders if closing the door on the restaurant might open a new window for him. But who would he be without Schmidt’s, and can he trust DelDine’s claims that they will continue to employ his staff and honor his family’s legacy?

When he receives startling news from the past, Jack begins to reshape his life and forge unexpected new friendships. But will he really let go of the very things that have defined him?

Critic reviews

"Coffey captures Jack’s dedicated and caring personality and creates a recognizable voice for each character. Listeners will root for a nice guy who is searching for happiness."

The location as a character

Loved the description and thought put into this book about place. It really does create a foundation for story as its own entity

F word use

I did not like hearing the F-word so much. I have to try to not think of it now. I need to put into my mind and thoughts, clean language along with the good stories.

I could love Rehoboth!

I particularly like the narration. Fit Jack’s voice and story perfectly. I highly recommend this book and hated to see it end. I am glad I listened to the Audio version.

Didn’t keep my attention

It was really hard to stay focused on the book I had to keep restarting it. It did take a turn and get more interesting at least.

Small town life

Lovely characters in this story of life in a small resort town. Jack, the main character, is so sympathetic, I just wanted him to have a happy ending. The narrator is wonderful.