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Jonathon Island | Season 2 #5
Find Me in the Spotlight
She left with his heart. And a secret she's kept for ten years.
Ashley Sullivan is done pretending. The glamorous Hollywood career? Over. The money? Gone. The confident smile everyone expects? Exhausting to maintain. At thirty-seven, she's a washed-up actress with a ten-year-old son and a past that's about to catch up with her.
When her sister offers a summer directing job on tiny Jonathon Island, Ashley sees an escape. Sun. Theater. No one who knows her secrets.
Then Nathan Carter walks in.
Eleven years ago, she showed up in his life just long enough to make him hope—then disappeared without explanation. Now the Tony Award-winning director is standing in front of her, older, wearier, and looking at her like he's still trying to figure out why she left.
She can never tell him the truth.
But secrets have a way of surfacing. Especially the ones that have his eyes, call her "Mom," and are about to meet their father for the first time.
Ten birthdays. Ten Christmases. Ten years of 'Dad' he never got to hear.
When the truth explodes, Nathan must face everything he's missed. Ashley must finally stop performing and be real. And forgiveness? Forgiveness will cost them both everything.
Find Me in the Spotlight is a heart-wrenching second chance romance about secrets, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to let someone see the real you. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Rachel Hauck, and readers who love a good ugly-cry.
Ashley Sullivan is done pretending. The glamorous Hollywood career? Over. The money? Gone. The confident smile everyone expects? Exhausting to maintain. At thirty-seven, she's a washed-up actress with a ten-year-old son and a past that's about to catch up with her.
When her sister offers a summer directing job on tiny Jonathon Island, Ashley sees an escape. Sun. Theater. No one who knows her secrets.
Then Nathan Carter walks in.
Eleven years ago, she showed up in his life just long enough to make him hope—then disappeared without explanation. Now the Tony Award-winning director is standing in front of her, older, wearier, and looking at her like he's still trying to figure out why she left.
She can never tell him the truth.
But secrets have a way of surfacing. Especially the ones that have his eyes, call her "Mom," and are about to meet their father for the first time.
Ten birthdays. Ten Christmases. Ten years of 'Dad' he never got to hear.
When the truth explodes, Nathan must face everything he's missed. Ashley must finally stop performing and be real. And forgiveness? Forgiveness will cost them both everything.
Find Me in the Spotlight is a heart-wrenching second chance romance about secrets, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to let someone see the real you. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Rachel Hauck, and readers who love a good ugly-cry.
- GenresRomance
Paperback
Published July 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 15, 2026
Find Me in the Spotlight is an emotional, faith-centered romance that has forgiveness, redemption, and the consequences of long-kept secrets. Ashley and Nathan have plenty of tension between as they navigate lost years & many unanswered questions.
Some of my favorite things:
* Second chances at family & love
* Family reconciliation (you will get to see some other family reconciliations as well)
* Power of forgiveness
* Finding authenticity after years of pretending to be someone different.
There is a lot of good emotional depth and redemptive themes which is what calls a Christian romance to me.
If you enjoy stories where broken relationships are given a chance to heal, Find Me in the Spotlight is the one for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Some of my favorite things:
* Second chances at family & love
* Family reconciliation (you will get to see some other family reconciliations as well)
* Power of forgiveness
* Finding authenticity after years of pretending to be someone different.
There is a lot of good emotional depth and redemptive themes which is what calls a Christian romance to me.
If you enjoy stories where broken relationships are given a chance to heal, Find Me in the Spotlight is the one for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
July 3, 2026
Heartbreaking and heartwarming all rolled into one incredible story!
Ashley Sullivan’s career as an actress is dying a slow death. Finances are tight and her ten year old son is noticing the strain. So when the opportunity to run the latest festival on Jonathan Island comes her way it’s a resounding yes.
Nathan Carter has been chasing a dream he’s not even sure he wants anymore. Ten years ago it cost him the love of his life, and he still isn’t sure what happened to drive her away. So a stay as artist-in-residence on Jonathan Island is available he’s on his way.
Interesting things happen when Ashley and Nathan reunite to direct the summer theatre festival. She’s carrying a huge secret. He’s looking for meaning in his life. Will her secret keep him from his purpose?
This one really tugged on all the feelings, and I was on pins and needles waiting for the shoe to drop. It’s a great addition to the Jonathan Island series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
Ashley Sullivan’s career as an actress is dying a slow death. Finances are tight and her ten year old son is noticing the strain. So when the opportunity to run the latest festival on Jonathan Island comes her way it’s a resounding yes.
Nathan Carter has been chasing a dream he’s not even sure he wants anymore. Ten years ago it cost him the love of his life, and he still isn’t sure what happened to drive her away. So a stay as artist-in-residence on Jonathan Island is available he’s on his way.
Interesting things happen when Ashley and Nathan reunite to direct the summer theatre festival. She’s carrying a huge secret. He’s looking for meaning in his life. Will her secret keep him from his purpose?
This one really tugged on all the feelings, and I was on pins and needles waiting for the shoe to drop. It’s a great addition to the Jonathan Island series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Highly recommend!
July 14, 2026
If you love Hallmark movies, then Find Me in the Spotlight is the story for you. Find Me in the Spotlight is the fifth book of season two of the Jonathon Island series, written by Elly Gilbert. It can be read as a standalone, but the whole series will win your heart.
Ashley Sullivan has been trying to make it work in Hollywood with her acting career, but the spark has gone out. Being a single mom, Ashley puts her son first. When her sister offers her the summer job of directing plays with the possibility of a year-round job, it’s time to pack up and return home to Jonathan Island.
Nathan comes to the island to help over the summer and runs into none other than Ashley, his old flame. In tow, she has a 10-year-old son. As they rekindle their flame and secrets come to light, things take a turn. Can their hearts be mended? This story had my heart. I loved this story.
The second chance at romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Elly Gilbert did a fantastic job intertwining faith elements throughout.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Ashley Sullivan has been trying to make it work in Hollywood with her acting career, but the spark has gone out. Being a single mom, Ashley puts her son first. When her sister offers her the summer job of directing plays with the possibility of a year-round job, it’s time to pack up and return home to Jonathan Island.
Nathan comes to the island to help over the summer and runs into none other than Ashley, his old flame. In tow, she has a 10-year-old son. As they rekindle their flame and secrets come to light, things take a turn. Can their hearts be mended? This story had my heart. I loved this story.
The second chance at romance was perfect and sweet with kisses only.
Elly Gilbert did a fantastic job intertwining faith elements throughout.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 14, 2026
Once again hearts are on the mend on Jonathan Island. This beautiful island has become a place of refuge and real second chances for people who least expect it. This is a story of redemption, hope for a future never imagined or dreamed, forgiveness and lots of emotion and angst.
Ashley Sullivan sees an opportunity to hopefully get a new start in her life along with her adorable son, Benny. Be prepared because Benny steals the show when he is involved. What she didn’t expect is a heartbreaking blast from her past in the person of Nathan Carter. He not only holds a piece of her heart, but he just so happens to be Benny’s father. The kicker is that Nathan has no clue that he has a son.
It was so emotional, heartwarming and sad all at once, but the light outshines the darkness. The biblical truths were scattered throughout this inspirational story as Ashley finds her faith again and Nathan’s faith is renewed. This book was a bundle of joy.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ashley Sullivan sees an opportunity to hopefully get a new start in her life along with her adorable son, Benny. Be prepared because Benny steals the show when he is involved. What she didn’t expect is a heartbreaking blast from her past in the person of Nathan Carter. He not only holds a piece of her heart, but he just so happens to be Benny’s father. The kicker is that Nathan has no clue that he has a son.
It was so emotional, heartwarming and sad all at once, but the light outshines the darkness. The biblical truths were scattered throughout this inspirational story as Ashley finds her faith again and Nathan’s faith is renewed. This book was a bundle of joy.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this return to Jonathon Island and this second chance romance. Ashley and Nathan were college sweethearts who connected again years later and then went their separate ways- Nathan to Broadway and Ashley to Hollywood- with a big secret between them on Ashley’s part. Reunited to pull off the theatre festival on the Island, it’s pretty obvious their love for each other never really went away. But Ashley’s secret could end up ruining everything.
I spent most of this book yelling at Ashley. Girl, just tell him. Please tell him. This is going to blow up… tell him now! And then what happens? It blows up. But Ashley’s struggles are human. Nathan’s struggles are human. What I loved the most in this story was all the people who speak truth over both of these messed up but endearing characters. From Pastor Arnie to Dani to Asher and everyone in between, I just loved how their village showed up and guided them— finally— to happily ever after. There was definitely a lot of yelling in my head on my part, but I always feel that’s the sign of a well done character.
The incorporated faith is raw and authentic. I loved Benny. I loved connecting with old friends who all felt true to who I know them to be from the series. And most of all I loved yet another happy ending for the ever-growing Jonathon Island family.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for my complementary copy of this book. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
I spent most of this book yelling at Ashley. Girl, just tell him. Please tell him. This is going to blow up… tell him now! And then what happens? It blows up. But Ashley’s struggles are human. Nathan’s struggles are human. What I loved the most in this story was all the people who speak truth over both of these messed up but endearing characters. From Pastor Arnie to Dani to Asher and everyone in between, I just loved how their village showed up and guided them— finally— to happily ever after. There was definitely a lot of yelling in my head on my part, but I always feel that’s the sign of a well done character.
The incorporated faith is raw and authentic. I loved Benny. I loved connecting with old friends who all felt true to who I know them to be from the series. And most of all I loved yet another happy ending for the ever-growing Jonathon Island family.
Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for my complementary copy of this book. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Find Me in The Spotlight is a wonderful addition to the Jonathon island lineup.
Ashley Sullivan is a single mom whose acting career seems to have passed her by. Ashley returns to Jonathon Island with her 10 year old son, Benny, when her sister Dani offers her a job directing the Summer Theater Festival. In spite of her reluctance to return to the island, the broke, unemployed, single mom with a big secret can’t turn down the offer.
Nathan Carter is a Tony Award winning director is burned out. When an opportunity to be artist-in-residence on Jonathon Island he decides it could be just the temporary change he was looking for. Working with woman who walked out in him eleven years ago gives him an opportunity to find out what happened so long ago.
I liked this book. It’s well written with likable characters. The book tackles the tough subjects of forgiveness and the problems caused by keeping secrets. My problem with this book is that Nathan seems to fail at simple math. Namely the woman he hasn’t seen in almost eleven years has a ten year old son. It also takes Nathan way too long to realize that Benny, who he has been spending a lot of time with, looks a lot like him.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.
Ashley Sullivan is a single mom whose acting career seems to have passed her by. Ashley returns to Jonathon Island with her 10 year old son, Benny, when her sister Dani offers her a job directing the Summer Theater Festival. In spite of her reluctance to return to the island, the broke, unemployed, single mom with a big secret can’t turn down the offer.
Nathan Carter is a Tony Award winning director is burned out. When an opportunity to be artist-in-residence on Jonathon Island he decides it could be just the temporary change he was looking for. Working with woman who walked out in him eleven years ago gives him an opportunity to find out what happened so long ago.
I liked this book. It’s well written with likable characters. The book tackles the tough subjects of forgiveness and the problems caused by keeping secrets. My problem with this book is that Nathan seems to fail at simple math. Namely the woman he hasn’t seen in almost eleven years has a ten year old son. It also takes Nathan way too long to realize that Benny, who he has been spending a lot of time with, looks a lot like him.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.
July 19, 2026
Dani’s next island festival
Ashley, a TV actress and single mom to Benny, and Nathan, well-known in Broadway theatre circles are both advised, by their respective agents, to change the focus of their future careers. They respond separately to invitations from Dani to oversee the Summer Theatre Festival on Jonathon Island, finding their way back into a tentative friendship which also soon re-ignites previously unresolved emotions. Despite their renowned careers, both Ashley and Nathan are unpretentious in their interactions with the island residents, literally adopting Ashley’s festival motto of “Come As You Are”. The various festival activities would have benefitted from a more in-depth description as ‘secondary influences’ seemed to interrupt the proceedings of each one.
Elly Gilbert’s contribution to this series is a heartwarming story which includes characters from previous books who continue playing important roles. Despite the primary topic focusing on Ashley and Nathan’s relationship, Benny remains a central character, not only for his general enthusiasm for life and his spontaneity on stage, but most of all, for the unwitting impact he has in deciding the future.
This is my honest opinion of a free review copy I received via Sunrise Publishers.
Ashley, a TV actress and single mom to Benny, and Nathan, well-known in Broadway theatre circles are both advised, by their respective agents, to change the focus of their future careers. They respond separately to invitations from Dani to oversee the Summer Theatre Festival on Jonathon Island, finding their way back into a tentative friendship which also soon re-ignites previously unresolved emotions. Despite their renowned careers, both Ashley and Nathan are unpretentious in their interactions with the island residents, literally adopting Ashley’s festival motto of “Come As You Are”. The various festival activities would have benefitted from a more in-depth description as ‘secondary influences’ seemed to interrupt the proceedings of each one.
Elly Gilbert’s contribution to this series is a heartwarming story which includes characters from previous books who continue playing important roles. Despite the primary topic focusing on Ashley and Nathan’s relationship, Benny remains a central character, not only for his general enthusiasm for life and his spontaneity on stage, but most of all, for the unwitting impact he has in deciding the future.
This is my honest opinion of a free review copy I received via Sunrise Publishers.
July 23, 2026
I always enjoy each trip to Jonathon Island! In this story, Ashley Sullivan returns to her hometown with her 10 year old son Benny to run the island's summer theater festival. I found myself thinking that it's a good thing Dani Sullivan Stone has so many siblings that she can convince to run all of the festivals on this island! Ashley is an actress who is struggling as she begins to enter the dreaded midlife and is no longer considered a "young" actress. She hopes that the festival can help her determine a path forward for her and her son. Enter Nathan Carter, Broadway director and Ashley's former flame. He was brought on to be the "big name" to draw crowds and attention to this festival. What Nathan doesn't know is that Ashley has a secret...and it involves him. Most of the story is a build-up to the reveal, and it does not go as Ashley hopes. I enjoyed the themes of redemption and grace throughout this book, and the addition of supporting characters who provided wise counsel to both Ashley and Nathan. This is a sweet story with a happy ending. Fans of Jonathon Island will enjoy Ashley and Nathan's story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Dani never fails to deliver with her ideas to revive life on Jonathon Island. This summer the focus is on theatre and she has enlisted the help of her sister, Ashley. Coming home for Ashley isn't easy and becomes even harder when her former boyfriend, Nathan, is also involved in the theatre.
I loved how hard they both worked with the different events and brought so many great ideas. Nathan was definitely the highlight as he always knew how to encourage the actors and actresses.
My favorite characters were not the main characters but instead the supporting characters. I really enjoyed Asher and Pastor Arnie for the friendship and counsel of Nathan throughout the book. My absolute favorite character was Benny as he brought such a youthfulness and joy to the story.
I really treasure the faith and truth in this book. The Biblical truths of forgiveness and grace were woven well throughout the story.
I was given a copy of the book. The opinions are my own.
I loved how hard they both worked with the different events and brought so many great ideas. Nathan was definitely the highlight as he always knew how to encourage the actors and actresses.
My favorite characters were not the main characters but instead the supporting characters. I really enjoyed Asher and Pastor Arnie for the friendship and counsel of Nathan throughout the book. My absolute favorite character was Benny as he brought such a youthfulness and joy to the story.
I really treasure the faith and truth in this book. The Biblical truths of forgiveness and grace were woven well throughout the story.
I was given a copy of the book. The opinions are my own.
September 23, 2026
Another book set in the sweet community on Jonathon Island.
In this book, we get to meet Ashley Sullivan, one of the older Sullivan children. We learn why she hasn't been on the island in years and about all her struggles. We also meet her sweet 10-year-old son, Benny, and learn how he has a real charm about him. Then in walks Nathan, from Ashley's past, and the plot twist. Can these three find new life on the island?
I love all these books set on Jonathon Island. The whole community pulls together; even when they struggle, they overcome it. It's been fun to keep seeing many of the past characters and finding out how they are doing. I really enjoy how all of these books tie together.
Elly Gilbert is a new author for me, and I enjoyed her writing style. The story flowed nicely, with just the right amount of drama and charm.
I highly recommend you add this one to your collection of Jonathon Island stories.
In this book, we get to meet Ashley Sullivan, one of the older Sullivan children. We learn why she hasn't been on the island in years and about all her struggles. We also meet her sweet 10-year-old son, Benny, and learn how he has a real charm about him. Then in walks Nathan, from Ashley's past, and the plot twist. Can these three find new life on the island?
I love all these books set on Jonathon Island. The whole community pulls together; even when they struggle, they overcome it. It's been fun to keep seeing many of the past characters and finding out how they are doing. I really enjoy how all of these books tie together.
Elly Gilbert is a new author for me, and I enjoyed her writing style. The story flowed nicely, with just the right amount of drama and charm.
I highly recommend you add this one to your collection of Jonathon Island stories.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Find Me in the Spotlight might start out making you think that it is just another father-did-not-know-about-his-son trope, but soon you realise that there is more to just the expected.
Both main characters had a life in the limelight and when that light started to fade, they had to look deep within themselves to find the true reason for their chosen careers. Was it all about the recognition or the love of creating which kept them going.
Jonathan Island is unique and this series has a family vibe and if you enjoy festivals, the island does not run out of festival ideas. The festival theme “come as you are” was a theme everyone can take home.
There were laughter, tears and fun moments and a family being reunited in more ways than one.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Both main characters had a life in the limelight and when that light started to fade, they had to look deep within themselves to find the true reason for their chosen careers. Was it all about the recognition or the love of creating which kept them going.
Jonathan Island is unique and this series has a family vibe and if you enjoy festivals, the island does not run out of festival ideas. The festival theme “come as you are” was a theme everyone can take home.
There were laughter, tears and fun moments and a family being reunited in more ways than one.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
July 14, 2026
Find Me in the Spotlight is the 5th book in the Jonathon Island series, season 2. For me, this story was beautiful in its message of redemption and second chances. Featuring single mom Ashley and Nathan, these two must learn to work together despite their difficult past and threatening secrets. As I read their story, I felt my emotions become fully involved. I completely related to Ashley, as a single mom myself. Her devotion to her child, fear of past secrets, and guardedness were all too familiar. Yet author Elly Gilbert expertly wove the seams together to create a story that was healing and hopeful.
I am excited to see what is next in store for Jonathon Island. This cast of characters keeps getting better and better!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I am excited to see what is next in store for Jonathon Island. This cast of characters keeps getting better and better!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 15, 2026
I love this series and it get better and better with each book that comes along. This island town reminds me of a old soap opera with a touch of hallmark movie feel. ashley and nathan are college sweehearts that ending up different paths in their lives. When ashley is giving the chance to help in the broadway festivial on the island, she thinks is a second chance of starting over but it might be a second chance at love.
If you love small town romance with a hallmark feel you will love this book. I read it in one sitting because i couldn't put it down.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
If you love small town romance with a hallmark feel you will love this book. I read it in one sitting because i couldn't put it down.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2026
I enjoyed this book very much. Several scenes with the community participating in the fun theatrical activities were funny and joyful. The relationship between Nathan and Ashley was so sad at first, but also held so much promise. Little Benny was easy to love, and the whole community continued to be supportive and wonderful. I teared up a little bit when the narrative made me unexpectedly emotional. I was encouraged by the truths presented, and I was glad to see returning characters. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
August 10, 2026
Find Me in the Spotlight
Ashley and Nathan have a heartwarming second chance at their forever after in this beautiful story. The two had been college sweethearts then he went to New York for his career in theater, while she went to Hollywood for her career. Then eleven years prior they reconnected briefly. Then Ashley disappeared. Now they have both ended up on Jonathan Island working together to direct and produce a community program. But Ashley is keeping an important secret from not only Nathan but also from her son. What happens when the secret is revealed? I highly recommend you read the book to learn more.
Ashley and Nathan have a heartwarming second chance at their forever after in this beautiful story. The two had been college sweethearts then he went to New York for his career in theater, while she went to Hollywood for her career. Then eleven years prior they reconnected briefly. Then Ashley disappeared. Now they have both ended up on Jonathan Island working together to direct and produce a community program. But Ashley is keeping an important secret from not only Nathan but also from her son. What happens when the secret is revealed? I highly recommend you read the book to learn more.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Find Me in the Spotlight was a wonderful read. Ashley and Nathan have history and meet years later on Jonathan Island when they have to work together on the summer theater festival. Their story is about being honest instead of performing, second chances, secrets, and learning that love doesn't have to look perfect. The author weaves faith elements into Find Me in the Spotlight, and the main characters were well-written.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 14, 2026
I love this series. I love the messy, raw faith that each character processes. I love that conflicts are dealt with in a healthy way, and that their village surrounds them with grace and solid guidance. While this particular installment had a family trope that I don't normally love, the story was well-written. I loved the focus on being authentic and showing up as your real self. Jonathon Island is the kind of community that I want.
July 18, 2026
Some stories don't just tug at your heart—they completely unravel it before carefully putting it back together again. Find Me in the Spotlight was one of those books.
Ashley and Nathan's story is filled with years of heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a secret that changes everything. Their reunion is emotional from the very beginning, and I found myself anxiously waiting for the moment the truth would finally come to light. The tension, the vulnerability, and the journey toward forgiveness kept me turning pages long into the night.
One of my favourite aspects of this story was its emphasis on redemption. This isn't just a second-chance romance—it's a story about healing broken relationships, extending grace when it's hardest, and discovering that authenticity is far more valuable than keeping up appearances. The faith woven throughout the story felt natural and beautifully reinforced those themes.
Ashley and Nathan were easy to root for, and I especially loved seeing their family begin to heal after so many years of hurt. Jonathan Island once again felt like the perfect backdrop for a heartfelt romance, and I continue to fall more in love with this series with every installment.
If you enjoy emotional Christian romances filled with family reconciliation, second chances, and stories that leave you reaching for the tissues, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR.
ARC Consideration: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and review it. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Ashley and Nathan's story is filled with years of heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a secret that changes everything. Their reunion is emotional from the very beginning, and I found myself anxiously waiting for the moment the truth would finally come to light. The tension, the vulnerability, and the journey toward forgiveness kept me turning pages long into the night.
One of my favourite aspects of this story was its emphasis on redemption. This isn't just a second-chance romance—it's a story about healing broken relationships, extending grace when it's hardest, and discovering that authenticity is far more valuable than keeping up appearances. The faith woven throughout the story felt natural and beautifully reinforced those themes.
Ashley and Nathan were easy to root for, and I especially loved seeing their family begin to heal after so many years of hurt. Jonathan Island once again felt like the perfect backdrop for a heartfelt romance, and I continue to fall more in love with this series with every installment.
If you enjoy emotional Christian romances filled with family reconciliation, second chances, and stories that leave you reaching for the tissues, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR.
ARC Consideration: I received a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and review it. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
July 19, 2026
A story of surrender.
Nathan and Ashley had to learn to surrender to God. They had to stop pretending, stop faking it, stop giving the world what it wanted from them. And as they surrendered, they found freedom. Freedom to be themselves, to be authentic, to just be present. It was a beautiful story.
Nathan and Ashley had to learn to surrender to God. They had to stop pretending, stop faking it, stop giving the world what it wanted from them. And as they surrendered, they found freedom. Freedom to be themselves, to be authentic, to just be present. It was a beautiful story.
July 22, 2026
Irresistible story
I found myself looking forward to spending time on Jonathon Island with these characters. However, there was a little too much repetition of the same thoughts and fears. It slowed down the plot so I would skip sections. Still, I could hardly wait to see how the story ended. I was glad I read it.
I found myself looking forward to spending time on Jonathon Island with these characters. However, there was a little too much repetition of the same thoughts and fears. It slowed down the plot so I would skip sections. Still, I could hardly wait to see how the story ended. I was glad I read it.
July 24, 2026
Another Jonathon Island book nails it! Once again I wish I could go visit or live on Jonathon Island. It's such a sweet place and each story pulls me farther in. This time Ashley is struggling to keep her acting career alive and support her son as a single mom. She accepts her sisters plea to come help put on a drama festival, only to find herself thrown together with her ex, Nathan. Everything is going great until Nathan realizes
Read
July 28, 20267/16/2026 Ended up skimming
August 8, 2026
This was a really sweet second chance story. A bit repetitive at moments, but overall a great book 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"Maybe grace didn't always shout. Maybe it whispered."
I loved Ashley and Nathan. Ashley tried so hard to keep things together, despite her dwindling savings and opportunities for work. Her son Benny was a great character and kept things light at the appropriate moments and drove the seriousness home when needed. More so than Ashley, Nathan rediscovered who he was meant to be on Jonathon Island. Nathan was easy to love with his charm, easy camaraderie and connection with people and focus on showcasing truth and relevance in theater. His tired heart and soul needed the refreshing he found on the island, especially with cool bros like Asher and Pastor Arnie. Ashley learned to rely on others and to revise her dreams instead of thinking herself a failure. I really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at theater management. Nathan and Ashley's faith journey was honest, raw, and real. I have completely fallen in love with the Sullivan family and can't wait to read more about Ashley's siblings.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I loved Ashley and Nathan. Ashley tried so hard to keep things together, despite her dwindling savings and opportunities for work. Her son Benny was a great character and kept things light at the appropriate moments and drove the seriousness home when needed. More so than Ashley, Nathan rediscovered who he was meant to be on Jonathon Island. Nathan was easy to love with his charm, easy camaraderie and connection with people and focus on showcasing truth and relevance in theater. His tired heart and soul needed the refreshing he found on the island, especially with cool bros like Asher and Pastor Arnie. Ashley learned to rely on others and to revise her dreams instead of thinking herself a failure. I really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at theater management. Nathan and Ashley's faith journey was honest, raw, and real. I have completely fallen in love with the Sullivan family and can't wait to read more about Ashley's siblings.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Sunrise Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2026
Books typically start with a hook that is full of tension. It's rough, there's anxiety, you wonder what's going to happen.
This book had all those things, but there was also hope. There is a gentleness through the entire book that, even in the very roughest parts, is calming for the soul. Hope ahines through. It was a very beautiful read.
This book had all those things, but there was also hope. There is a gentleness through the entire book that, even in the very roughest parts, is calming for the soul. Hope ahines through. It was a very beautiful read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"It feels like the beginning of everything that actually matters." Clarity - when we have the opportunity, and take it, to discover what does matter in our lives. This story explores life choices and new discoveries. I was provided this book by Sunshine Publishing to read. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts. Worth the read.
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