Hello from Naples!
September was a special month for us, as we celebrated our 27th wedding anniversary on the 6th. To mark the occasion, we enjoyed a little staycation at the Naples Bay Resort. It was our first time staying there, and we loved the relaxing pool area and spa. The location couldn’t have been more convenient, since our celebratory dinner at Nosh was just a short walk away. It was a perfect way to pause and celebrate together.
September also brought the last of our travel for a while, since we try not to be away during season. At the end of the month, we flew to Greensboro, NC, for Elon University’s Parents Weekend with our youngest, Riley, who is now a senior. We arrived Friday evening and met Riley for a quick dinner before heading to the “Please Clap” improv show. Riley has been part of this group since freshman year, and it was such a treat to finally see them perform live. Watching the students think on their feet and build scenes from audience suggestions was both clever and hilarious.
Saturday was a highlight, as our dear family friend Beth—COO of the Greensboro Science Center—treated us to a behind-the-scenes tour. While the center has all the usual attractions (plus an outdoor ropes course and impressive aquatic exhibits), it was the animals that stole our hearts. We had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to feed a red panda, pygmy hippos, and even a rare okapi. It was magical.
We rounded out the weekend with a lovely brunch at the Green Valley Grill in the historic O. Henry Hotel, joined by Jeff’s sister Liz and her husband David. Time with them is always special, and we’re grateful Riley has family so close during the school year. It was a wonderful trip and the perfect close to our months of travel.
Here is a recent article from Florida Weekly: Books on Third to offer a new chapter for Southwest Florida Bookstores
Readers abound in Naples as bookstores open and move – but like a good book, aren’t kept closed for long.
In an era when many bookstores in other cities are closing, two local women are about to open a new one in downtown Naples.
Books on Third is scheduled to open Oct 11 bringing more than 16,000 books to the shelves of the 3,000 square foot shop. Owners Shan O’Fee-Byron and Lindsay Smith say there will be books for children, teens and adults along with gift items and a large selection of coffee table books. “We see it as a place to build community,” O’Fee-Byron said. “People are looking for analog activities to take us away from all the tech that is consuming us.” The grand opening runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct 11. The event will feature a partnership with Positively Bookish who will custom spray the edges of books purchased that day. “We are just excited to invite everybody in and look at the store and take a browse around,” O’Fee-Bryon concluded. A new chapter is about to begin in Naples, the co-owners said. The store intends to become a literary hub for the community, building an inspiring and inviting independent bookstore that will be a haven for book lovers of all kinds.
Books on Third is located at 1300 3rd St S Unit 201, Naples. For more information call (239) 331-3960 or visit booksonthird.com.
Meanwhile, the former Barnes & Nobles store was part of a demolition project in Waterside Shops recently, making way for Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma there. Barnes & Nobles had since reopened in Naples early in the year. The store relocated to Parkshore Plaza, at a former Big Lots, 4149 Tamiami Trail N.
The Estero Barnes and Nobles underwent a change the year prior, in January 2024, reopening in Coconut Point Mall with a new look. That store is located at 8052 Mediterranean Drive, next to DSW and Ulta Beauty.
Official September 2025 Climate Data at Naples Airport:
September in Naples closed out summer with a quieter-than-usual showing. Rainfall came in just over 5 inches, which is on the low side for a month that’s often known for heavy downpours, leaving us behind the normal year-to-date totals. Highs reached 94°, a touch cooler than last year, while lows hovered around 74°, matching the record low from just a few years back. All told, it was a softer version of September weather—still steamy and stormy at times, but without the usual drenching rains.
Book Review: “The Frozen River” by Ariel Lawhon
I am a big fan of historical fiction, so when a friend recommended The Frozen River to me and described the events surrounding the novel, I was intrigued. The story takes the reader to 1789 Maine, where winter has set in and the river is literally frozen. It’s here we meet Martha Ballard, a real-life midwife whose diary inspired the novel. She is called not only to deliver babies and tend to the sick, but also to testify in a shocking case of violence and betrayal. At the heart of the story is a mystery—one that Martha must unravel with courage, sharp observation, and her unwavering sense of justice.
What I loved about this book is how Ariel Lawhon weaves fact and fiction so seamlessly. You can feel the bitter cold of the Maine winter, the danger of crossing a frozen river, and the weight of Martha’s responsibility as a woman trying to hold both her family and her community together. Martha is strong, clear-eyed, and deeply human. She faces unimaginable challenges with a mix of practicality, courage, and compassion.
Beyond the historical detail (which is excellent), the heart of this book is really about justice, resilience, and the courage it takes to speak the truth when others would rather silence you. The mystery keeps the pages turning, but it’s Martha’s voice that stays with you.
If you enjoy stories rooted in real history, with a heroine you can admire, a setting so vivid you’ll feel the chill in your bones, and a mystery that deepens the drama, this is a book to add to your stack.
Here are a couple reviews on Amazon for The Frozen River:
“This book offers a compelling narrative that centers on an extraordinary female protagonist who dedicates her intellectual prowess and personal time to transforming her community. Through her unwavering commitment and strategic efforts, she works tirelessly to enhance the safety, quality of life, and overall well-being of every resident. Her character embodies resilience, compassion, and a profound sense of social responsibility, making the story not just an engaging read but also an inspiring testament to the power individual action in creating positive societal change.”
“That was quite a read! This is my first book by Ariel Lawhon and I loved it! Martha Ballard was an extraordinary woman! The ending of the book makes me chuckle and Colonel North gets what he deserves! Well written, as well as, well researched. I would highly recommend this book if you like historical fiction. I gave it a 5 star rating.”
Restaurant Recommendation: Warren American Whiskey Kitchen 111 Tenth Street S Naples, FL
Sizzle Dining kicked off in Naples on September 3rd, and throughout the month we enjoyed taking advantage of the dining specials. If you’re not familiar, Sizzle Dining features many local restaurants offering three-course dinners priced from $29 to $59, with a portion of proceeds benefiting charity. One stop on our culinary adventure was Warren, a restaurant that opened in 2023 and one we’d heard great things about but, until now, hadn’t tried.
Why did we wait so long? Wow—we loved everything about this place! Like its namesake whiskey, the ambiance is classic and sophisticated. Despite being full, the noise level stayed remarkably low thanks to special acoustic paneling in the ceiling—a thoughtful touch that made it so easy to enjoy conversation. Our server was knowledgeable, attentive, and made us feel right at home.
While we ordered from the Sizzle Dining menu, we also peeked at the regular menu and saw plenty of dishes we can’t wait to come back for. That night, though, we delighted in the Caesar Salad, Chili Crisp Tuna, Warren Wagyu Flight, Seafood Trio, White Chocolate–Raspberry Bread Pudding, and Ice Cream Duo. Every bite was perfection. Needless to say, we’re already planning our next reservation!
Here are a few recent reviews on Open Table:
“Great culinary experience at the Warren. Food was exquisite, service was impeccable and the ambience was great. Upscale, yet casual.”
“So happy to have enjoyed outstanding dinner at Warren! Best bread we’ve had at a restaurant in some time. All of our dishes were prepared superbly and my somewhat picky husband loved everything he ate.”
“We like the Warren and enjoy trying their specialty menus. Each time we invite friends, who are impressed. We tried the sizzle menu after dining there during Naples restaurant week. The food is always delicious and the staff knowledgeable. It has become a regular dining experience for us. The cocktails are delicious as well. Highly recommend the Warren!”
Naples Real Estate: Here are the September 2025 Naples & Bonita Springs market statistics.
For the first 9 months of 2025, there were 7,775 closed sales in Naples and Bonita Springs. This compares with 8,115 closed sales for the same period last year, a 4% drop in sales year-to-date. While most price categories experienced decreases, the most significant drops occurred in the $700,001 to $3 million range, down 13% and 12% respectively. The market under $300,000 was the only segment to see a substantial increase, rising 41% which could suggest a shift in buyer demand toward more affordable properties but also reflects an increase in supply of lower priced homes.
Here’s an interesting table comparing September 2025 to last year:
As the following table shows, the level of inventory varies by price point:
Inventory ticked down again in September, decreasing from a 10-month supply in May to a 7-month supply in September. This decline is partially due to sellers who didn’t sell during season choosing to take their homes off the market during the slower summer months. We anticipate that much of this inventory will return to the market in the upcoming season. Inventory remains particularly high in the luxury segment, with homes priced over $3 million currently sitting at a 12-month supply. The overall trend suggests that while buyers now have more options, sellers may need to adjust their expectations.
Riverstone Real Estate:
Riverstone is the community where Jeff and Nicola live. Riverstone has numerous amenities available for residents to enjoy. You can spend days swimming and relaxing at the community resort-style pool, playing tennis, taking a fitness class or socializing in the community’s private clubhouse. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Riverstone as of October 1, 2025:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 16 active listings, 2 sales pending with contingencies and 1 pending sale. The MLS system lists 43 homes sold in the last 12 months. With average monthly sales at 3.58 per month, there is 4.5 months of inventory at Riverstone.
Stonecreek Real Estate:
Stonecreek is the sister community to Riverstone, about a mile up Logan Blvd. and was built by the same developer, GL Homes. Both communities offer social, vacation-inspired lifestyles with extensive amenities & A-rated schools. Stonecreek is a bit newer and home prices in this community tend to be a bit higher than Riverstone. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Stonecreek as of October 1, 2025:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 18 active listings and zero pending sales. The MLS system lists 30 homes sold in the last 12 months. With average monthly sales at 2.50 per month, there is 7.2 months of inventory at Stonecreek.
Valencia Trails Real Estate:
Valencia Trails is the active, adult community about 5 miles east on Immokalee Road from Riverstone and was built by the same developer, GL Homes. As a 55+ lifestyle community, Valencia Trails offers even more amenities than Riverstone and Stonecreek including a 43,00 SF clubhouse, that includes a theater for live performances, a spa, a restaurant and pool bar. The fitness facilities and calendar of events are extensive. Here’s a look at the MLS market in Valencia Trails as of October 1, 2025:
Here’s a breakdown of what’s currently on the market in MLS:
There are 14 active listings 2 sales pending with contingencies and 3 pending sales. The MLS system lists 57 homes sold in the last 12 months; however, this number includes many new construction and builder spec homes. Valencia Trails is almost sold out. Of the 14 current active listings, only 2 are builder spec homes.
Give us a call if we can help with any real estate questions you have at 239-451-9351.
