Southern Discomfort

Sandy Island #1

by Ashley Farley

Isabelle is haunted by remorse over a past mistake that drastically changed the lives of those closest to her. Apologizing would be a step in the right direction—if only she could muster the courage to say, "I'm sorry." Her world is turned upside down when her late husband's will stipulates that she transform their waterfront estate into a bed and breakfast. As the summer's first guests are due to arrive, Isabelle feels increasingly overwhelmed. Unexpected help arrives in the form of her twenty-four-year-old granddaughter.

Shelby, fresh out of college with no job and too much time spent obsessing over her ex-boyfriend, is sent to the Lowcountry by her exasperated parents. As personalities clash, Isabelle and Shelby discover they are more alike than they realize. Can they set aside their differences to manage the challenges that arrive with their first wave of guests?

Genres: Fiction

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 6, 2024

About the author

⭐️USA Today Bestseller⭐️
Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.

A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.

Ashley loves to hear from her readers.
Visit her website @ http://www.ashleyfarley.com
Sign up for her newsletter @ https://ashleyfarley.com/newsletter-s...
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyFarley...

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: SOUTHERN DISCOMFORT
AUTHOR: Ashley Farley
PUB DATE: 08.06.2024

How exciting it is to get to read an Ashley Farley book and one that is first book in a series. Farley is the queen of women’s fiction, and writes compelling stories on wonderfully imperfect characters trying to get through life. There is always complex family dynamics, a small beach town vibe, and the beauty of getting second chances. There is humor, hope, and lots of heart.

Souther Discomfort is a great start to a series and this first installment is centered on Isabelle and Shelby, and a Bed and Breakfast. Isabelle’s estate is to turning into a B&B as stipulated in her late husband’s will, and her granddaughter Shelby who is a little lost and troubled, is the reluctant help. Oh how fun to see these two face off, and then coming to a realization and finally seeing eye to eye.

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read multiple Ashley Farley books and always enjoy them. This was a nice, charming southern fiction story, and I enjoyed reading about Shelby and Izzy's relationship as grandmother and granddaughter. I loved seeing them bond and connect in ways they did not expect. I also loved reading about them running this B&N. I found that fun and entertaining. One of the characters in the story that I loved was Blossom. She was really there for Izzy in her time of need. Just lovely. If you enjoy reading about family dynamics, southern fiction, and great characters…definitely give this one a try. It was a good one. 

Thank you Suzy approved book tours and Ashley Farley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The greatest gift of family is not in the moments of perfection, but in the unwavering presence and acceptance during times of imperfection.”

“Because you’re a fairy godmother or a guardian angel. Whichever magical being you are, we clearly need you.”

Is it too late to say “I’m sorry” 30 years later?
Can this dysfunctional family find a way to heal?
Secrets, magical, imperfect family.
Another wonderfully written book by Ashley Farley!

[Lori Walton (Personal) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new series by Ashley Farley starts with Southern Discomfort! This is the Sandy Island series, a Marsh Point spinoff series.

Isabelle is out of her element running a bed & breakfast that her husband stipulated in his will that she must run. She is joined by her granddaughter Shelby who seems to be trying to find herself; she actually excels at this task of running the B&B much to her own surprise!

Lots of family drama, secrets coming to light, and also the most delightful character I've read in a long time - Blossom. She is a whimsical and magical woman who assists in Isabelle's time of need, while driving Isabelle crazy at the same time!

I already can't wait for the next installment in this new series!

If you're a fan of family drama - why aren't you reading Ashley Farley?

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ashley Farley excels at writing about family dysfunction. Southern Discomfort is a prime example of this.

"Parents love their children. They never intentionally hurt them, although they are sometimes forced to make difficult decisions they believe are in their best interest."

"The only person you're hurting by holding on to your animosity is yourself."

Great life lessons in a riveting novel filled with imperfect characters trying to overcome adversities!

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bed and breakfast in a beautiful waterfront setting, two strong female characters starting over, a heartwarming story about second chances, family drama and life lessons. A delightful read.
This is the first book from this author an it won’t be my last.

Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 by Ashley Farley released August 6, 2024.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

History, family disfunction and reconciliation, romance, & "magic".
Set in a beautiful setting. Another one of Ashley's best. Loved it and can't wait for book two!

[Lisa G. Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’M SORRY” WOULD HAVE CHANGED EVERYTHING!

“The greatest gift of family is not in the moments of perfection, but in the unwavering presence and acceptance during times of imperfection."
– Blossom

Author Ashley Farley writes excellent contemporary women’s fiction. Southern Discomfort is a perfect example as it entails a dysfunctional family, a dispute over a Will, remorse over a terrible decision that drastically changed the lives of three family members, continued disdain for family members, and a granddaughter whose life is out of control sent to live with her Grandmother. The family must learn acceptance of one another and how to support one another in presence in order to fulfill the requests of the Will. With no one having any training, they swap their palatial family home into a B&B. You can only imagine what disasters are on the horizon. A blessing arrives with a mystery guest, Blossom, who serves as a buffer for everyone and helps them all be their best selves. Because of circumstances, the matriarch is brought to her senses and realizes how being able to say “I’m Sorry” thirty years ago would have changed the course of her family.

[Anne Wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming story of family, forgiveness, and second chances. Shelby, who graduated from college two years ago, is still living at home, without any hope of getting a job. Her parents finally had enough of her staying out late and sleeping until noon, so sends her to her grandmother Isabelle in South Carolina. Isabelle is also having a rough time since the unexpected death of her husband. She is fighting his will in court that mandates she turn their beautiful big home, Point Pleasant, into a Bed and Breakfast. This was his dream, but not Isabelle’s, however, the judge rules in favor of upholding the will.
Opening day of the Bed and Breakfast is chaos, however, Shelby has arrived, and steps up pretty much saves the day. Isabelle’s son, Shelby’s Uncle Pritchard is pleased with all she has done and vows to get what she needs, such as a reservation program and other things Shelby has noted that will provide better accommodations for their guests.
Blossom, an unexpected guest arrives with her dog, and after a big fuss, Isabelle finally relents and allows Blossom, and the dog to stay. Blossom proves to be not only an unexpected guest, but also an unexpected blessing. She anticipates needs and takes care of them before a problem arises.
There are a variety of surprises as the B&B gets off to a rocky start, however, Blossom somehow appears wherever needed. An unanticipated situation that necessitated calling in the police is the incentive needed to have security onsite and to know who the guests are in advance.
This is an intriguing story, that was impossible to put down. The characters are strong, interesting, and unforgettable. I look forward to the next book in this delightful new series. Once again, Ashley Farley has hit it out of the park!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Ashley Farley brings her readers another well written novel with wonderful and believable characters and a plot that keeps readers turning pages until the end. This book had everything I love in a book - family turmoil and forgiveness, a bit of romance and a bit of mystery plus some magic all set in a beautiful location. This book checked all the boxes for me.

Shelby is just out of college and isn't really interested in finding a job. Her boyfriend just broke up with her and she's heartbroken. She loves to spend time partying with her friends so there's really no time for her to work. Her parents get fed up with her lifestyle and decide to send her to her grandmother's house on Sandy Island. The two women clash immediately and Shelby can't imagine staying there but the longer she's there -- the less she wants to leave. Isabelle is the grandmother and isn't at all happy with her life. Her husband left her instructions in his will to turn the huge home into a bread and breakfast and Isabelle is fighting his request as hard as she can. She doesn't know anything about running a rental house and doesn't want to share her home with strangers. As the two women embark on the plans to set up a rental property, they find out that maybe they are more alike than they thought. Can Shelby and Isabelle work together and make the b&b successful and will the magic that Blossom brings help them both find a happier and more fulfilling life?

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two generations, Isabelle, the grandmother, and Shelby her granddaughter, their lives are about to change. Isabelle at 75 is forced to convert her home into a bed and breakfast because he husband's will said he always had a dream of turning it into a bed and breakfast, so for her to inherit anything she must do this.
Shelby, who is 24 has lost her way in life. She has done nothing since she graduated from college, except go out every night and stalk her ex-boyfriend, Luke. Her parents decide to send her to the Low Country to help her grandmother.
It was hard at times seeing Isabelle struggle because, she hadn't done many things and hadn't worked since she had children. Shelby has a chip on her shoulder, but she is stuck there. It is not looking good for either of them, but they start to see things a little differently. When disaster strikes, will they come together, and see what they each have to do, confront their past, see the reality of it, and see what can happen when they do.
Ashley Farley has written book #1 of a new Sandy Island series. Isabelle and Shelby are so much alike, stubborn, set in their ways, used to being taken care of, so they are going to discover what they can do.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @ashleyfarleyauthor for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

This is such a sweet, whimsical southern story. It swirls around Shelby, who is sent to the South Carolina Lowcountry to help her grandmother (Isabelle) Izzy get her B&B up and running.

Shelby is still pining after a past boyfriend and Izzy is not sure why her deceased husband wanted her to start this B&B in the first place. Izzy has a secret that has driven a wedge between her and her son’s family for years, but now they are here to help. Izzy still harbors a lot of regret, yet she cannot seem to say sorry. Maybe Shelby and Izzy both have something to learn.

I loved all the chaos and details about the daily operations of the B&B. It gave the story a sense of hospitality and charm. But I really enjoyed the character of Blossom. She is somewhat magical and appears to be a guardian angel/fairy godmother to Izzy, and I love her little dog, Jolene. The magic is subtle, but it’s just the right touch.

With a bit of romance, family drama, and a sprinkling of magic, this is a delightful read.

[Susan (The Book Bag) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved all of Ashley Farley's stories and this one goes right to the top of my list of favorites. Nobody writes Southern family drama and dysfunction better than she does!

Southern Discomfort is about the wonderful characters of Isabelle, an older woman whose world has been upended and her spunky granddaughter, Shelby, who has been sent to her grandmother's to try to get her life figured out. Whowee, prepare yourself for a clash of personalities! And then there is the always entertaining and somewhat magical Blossom. I loved her and all of her tricks. I hope we get to see more of her.

This is another wonderful story from one of my must-read authors. I know to set aside a chunk of time when I start one of her books because I won't want to stop. Southern Discomfort was exactly that for me. I loved every minute of it and I can't wait for book #2. I highly recommend this one!

[Rachel (storybookcorner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all, this book is so good!! If you love a southern story with family drama, self-discovery, and a little bit of a twist, then this is a must-read for you this summer. If you enjoy Debbie Macomber, specifically her angel Shirley, Goodness, & Mercy series, then this is the book for you.

We get a deeper dive into the lives of Izzy, Pritchard, Savannah, Harper, & Shelby from Songbird's Second Chance of the Marsh Point series. No spoilers, but if you read that book and are aware of the story behind Pritchard, Savannah, & Harper, then you don't want to miss out on this new series.

Thank you, Ashley Farley, for allowing me the opportunity to read this advanced copy. I'm already giddy with excitement in anticipation for this release!!

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where has this author been all of my life? This is a fantastic southern women’s fiction book set in the low country of South Carolina. It has a newly opened bed and breakfast with a very reluctant owner.

It centers around two characters: Shelby and her grandmother, Izzy.
Both of these women don’t make great first impressions on the reader as the book begins. They are angry, spoiled and have chips on their shoulders for different reasons.

As the book progresses and I was able to peel back the layers of complexity about Shelby and Izzy, my heart opened up to them.

There is a paranormal/magical realism aspect with a character named Blossom and her dog, Jolene, that makes this story irresistible.

There are also characters in this book that have their own series which I will be reading.

[Beth Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in the Sandy Island series which is a spinoff from the Marsh point series. This certainly be read as a stand alone. I have read them all and just love the Characters. I love how Ashley takes a book and expands on each of the characters. They all are so charming, witty and as with everyone all have some kind of drama. This is about second chances, heartwarming family and learning to forgive your past mistakes. I just love Ashely Farley's books and highly recommend them. They are so enjoyable, once you start you just can't put it down and you can't wait until you get to read the next one. Thank you for the ARC!

[Jeannine Wickliffe]

Love the books around Marsh Point

Isabelle 's life has totally changed since her husband's death and she can't seem to find her footing. Add to this is what her husbands will has done to her life. What does she know about running a B&B, now Savannah is married to Pritchard and their daughter is in their lives. Nothing is the same so she has reverted to being stubborn and not helpful. Then Blossom shows up as a long term guest and she starts having an affect on Izzy and her attitude. Can she change and have a better relationship with Pritchard, Sussanah, and Harper? Can she finally get on board with her late husbands dream?

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a spin-off from the Marsh Pointe series. Both set in the LowCounty of SC (my favorite place). A lot of emotion to unravel from mistakes that were made years ago and how hard it is for the grandmother to say she’s sorry. There is a story behind that too from something that happened in her life. A lot of things going on with her home being turned into a Bread and Breakfast and some unruly guests. A little romance and a little angelic help round out this great story. Quirky characters that will warm your heart.

[Gwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in the Sandy Island series which is a spinoff from the Marsh point series. I love when characters that I’m familiar with show up in a new book. A family with dark secrets and a lot of animosity. Isabell has done somethings in her past that literally changed the trajectory of people’s lives. Can she finally admit her mistakes before it’s too late and can she be forgiven? Then Blossom, who is she, where did she come from? She seems to have an agenda and odd things are happening. Truly an amazing story.

[Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelby has recently graduated college and parties all the time, not really looking for work. Her parents send her to live with her grandmother, Isabelle, on Sandy Island. They are to work together making the family home into a bed and breakfast. The only problem is the two tend to not see eye-to-eye.

Southern Discomfort has a fun and interesting premise for the story, and I really enjoyed the perfectly imperfect characters, especially Blossom.

I received a gifted copy.

Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram.com/tarheelreader

[Cecile VanTyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Southern Discomfort" is the first in Ashley Farley's newest series--Sandy Island. What a great title! I knew some things were going to be uncomfortable...I was right and they were great! But like all of Ashley's books, there's love, family, friendship, forgiveness and the wonderful things that come from those.

Isabelle and Blossom are my new favorite friend couple! Blossom (and her dog) are summer guests at Magnolia Shores which is Izzy's home. Her husband Edward passed away and stipulated in his will that she turn it into a B&B; she's not happy about it. Blossom was sent there to help Izzy get through this change and also help her deal with a tough situation she regrets. A friendship is formed.

Shelby is sent to Izzy's (her grandmother) to help her get her life on track and move on from a breakup. Blossom is there for her as well.

With characters like Izzy's son Pritchard, his wife Savannah, their daughter Harper, and Shelby's mom Kate, as well as the B&B's staff, "Southern Discomfort" has it all! It's a special start to this series and I know you'll love it as much as I did!

[Marilyn Goncalves · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Southern Discomfort✨

Family dysfunction , flawed characters , second chances and so much more packed in this heartwarming story where Isabelle’s late husband’s will specifies that their estate be turned into a bed and breakfast. There’s so much going on and on top of all of that she has Shelby, her granddaughter that was sent over by her parents because she’s getting out of control. I love the whole family disorder chaos and under all of that there’s always love. The perfect late summer afternoon read.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when a main character is outside the normal age range. It does my heart good seeing all ages represented. Isabelle is in her 70s and running a bed and breakfast per her late husband’s will. Her granddaughter Shelby is trying to find herself.

A great portrayal of family dysfunction. Secrets are unearthed and the two learn from each other.

And maybe my favorite character of the year, Blossom. Both a godsend and a meddle.

A heartwarming story about family. I can’t wait for book two.

[Lisa LoBiondo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read about a girl from Austin Tx who refused to get a job and run up her parents credit cards 2 years graduation, is sent to live with her Grandmother to help her start an Bed & Breakfast with the family home on the S. Carolina coast as per the will of her late Grandfather. She easily thrives in the job and even finds she enjoys it. Still pining for her hometown boyfriend who has moved on, she begins to forget him when she befriends an older local boy. But then the ex-boyfriend shows up and she gets a rude awakening.

[Joanna Olson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read a ton of Ashley Farley books and I love how she captures family drama and dynamics so well! I loved Shelby’s character development throughout the novel and loved how she chose to put herself first while still caring about others. Izzy was not the most likable character for many reasons but by the end I started to understand her more. The setting in low country was beautiful and it made me really want to stay at their B&B! I’m excited this is going to be the start of a new series.

[Sue Librandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all of Ashley Farley's books and this is no exception. This is a new series spun off another one, but you don't feel that you need to read the Marsh Point trilogy first (but being that they are so good, I would). This family has plenty of problems and Blossom comes to stay at the B&B for a few months. Blossom is here to help and you find out that she is not from this world. This puts a fun spin on the story.

[Renée W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enthralling read! Thrown into a lifestyle Izzy never wanted, rude and petulant to start. Along with Blossom Annoying her, you’ll love the real life family drama and Laugh out Loud moments! This Fantastic new Southern Discomfort series, I totally loved and can’t wait for the next book in this series!

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness can be hard to give and to receive. This wonderful story of relationships, grief, love, hope, and more, brings the reader into the lives of a family struggling to find their way. Each person deals with situations through different actions. This is my favorite Ashley Farley book. I can't wait to read the next book. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Ashley Farley book but it won’t be my last. This story combines Southern charm and relationships. Namely, between a granddaughter and her grandmother. I loved my granny like no other so this was a sweet spot for me. Another top-notch character was Blossom who was always there for Izzy. Check out this book featuring great characters, family dynamics, and sweet Southern charm. 

[Christy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Ashley Farley but will definitely not be my last. I loved her writing and the Lowcountry setting. Southern fiction can be so charming and I’m thrilled that this is the first in a new series. I quickly became engaged with Izzy, Shelby, Pritchard and of course Blossom. Looking forward to seeing what happens next with them and Magnolia Shores.