Three generations of Schmidts have run their family’s namesake 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. 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 snapping up beloved eateries along this stretch of coast and are pursuing Jack with a very generous offer to take over Schmidt’s.

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 that DelDine will continue to employ his staff and honor his family’s legacy?

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

Praise for The Same Bright Stars

“With his story of family, grief, legacy, and perseverance, Joella has crafted a sensational summer read. I will forever feel lucky to encounter (and yes, unabashedly weep over!) anything Joella writes.”
—BECKY CHALSEN, author of Kismet

“Joella skillfully explores how grief shapes us, and he captures those perfect moments of human connection we all crave.”
—TRACEY LANGE, author of We Are the Brennans

“Absorbing, tender and filled with heart, The Same Bright Stars moved me with its unwavering hope.”
—HANNA HALPERIN, author of I Could Live Here Forever

"A touching tribute to a cherished place and the people who make it home.” —NIKKI ERLICK, author of The Measure