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Little Sister Island #1
When the Stars Sang
Nearly twenty-five years ago, Kathleen Halloran’s brother drowned during the last summer they ever spent with their grandmother on a remote island off Maine’s coast. Like a siren’s call she can’t resist, Kathleen is pulled back to Little Sister Island. She leaves her job and her girlfriend, packs up her few belongings, and moves into her grandmother’s cottage.Molly Cooper loves life on Little Sister, where the islanders take care of their own. Kathleen Halloran doesn’t belong here, and her arrival stirs up unwelcome memories for the islanders—including Molly’s brother. Molly is certain Kathleen will pack up at the first big blow. When she doesn’t, Molly begins to see maybe there’s more to Kathleen than she thought.Sometimes, before you can move forward, you have to look back.
363 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2018
97 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
About the author
Caren J. Werlinger
22 books296 followersFrom the author's website: Bestselling author Caren Werlinger published her first award-winning novel, Looking Through Windows, in 2008. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels, winning several more awards. Influenced by a diverse array of authors, including Rumer Godden, J.R.R. Tolkein, Ursula LeGuin, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Willa Cather and the Brontë sisters, Caren writes literary fiction that features the struggles and joys of characters readers can identify with. Her stories cover a wide range of genres: historical fiction, contemporary drama, and fantasy, including the award-winning Dragonmage Saga, a fantasy trilogy set in ancient Ireland. Most recently, she created the magical setting of Little Sister Island (a place she and her readers wish were real) in When the Stars Sang and Face the Wind.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
August 30, 2020
4.75 Stars. I really enjoyed this read. It was much better than I expected and really a nice surprise. This just reminded me that I need to read more of Werlinger’s books. Her writing was really well done and the book had a great flow. I believe I would put this in the drama-romance category.
Kathleen is running from a dysfunctional relationship, with her girlfriend and parents, to live in her in deceased grandmother’s cottage. The cottage is on a small island off the coast of Maine. Molly is the sheriff of Little Sister Island. The community is close knit and they don’t trust outsiders easily. But Molly can’t stop thinking about Kathleen. Do these two have a chance at a relationship, or will outside forces stop them from being together?
As I said earlier, the writing is just wonderful. This book is actually on the longer side, but I was never bored for a second. Not only did Werlinger write the two main characters well, the whole island came alive. This is one of the better written cast of secondary characters I have read in a drama-romance book. All had their unique personalities; even the damn dog was great. I’m really in awe how well this whole island came alive for me.
I said this is a drama-romance because it is about families and dealing with tragedies, but also love and belonging. I went from tearing up one minute to a huge smile on my face. This book pulled different emotions out of me and I enjoyed every second of it.
There is a romance of course. Though I do have to say the only thing missing in this book for me was a little more chemistry. It took a long time before I saw any spark between the main couple. The sex scenes are all fade to black. I don’t really think that is why the characters had less chemistry for me. But I think it was a missed opportunity to strengthen the chemistry. I do want to make clear though, this couple absolutely had a bond together. I believed that love was happening between them. It is just more about two people connecting through love, than a steamy passionate love. I hope that makes some sense. The point is I still enjoyed the romance.
This is only the third book I have read by Werlinger, but it is absolutely my favorite. If you are a drama-romance fan and are looking for a well written, enjoyable book, give this a chance. I don’t think you will be disappointed. I can’t wait to read more of her books, especially her fantasy series.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley, for a honest review.
Kathleen is running from a dysfunctional relationship, with her girlfriend and parents, to live in her in deceased grandmother’s cottage. The cottage is on a small island off the coast of Maine. Molly is the sheriff of Little Sister Island. The community is close knit and they don’t trust outsiders easily. But Molly can’t stop thinking about Kathleen. Do these two have a chance at a relationship, or will outside forces stop them from being together?
As I said earlier, the writing is just wonderful. This book is actually on the longer side, but I was never bored for a second. Not only did Werlinger write the two main characters well, the whole island came alive. This is one of the better written cast of secondary characters I have read in a drama-romance book. All had their unique personalities; even the damn dog was great. I’m really in awe how well this whole island came alive for me.
I said this is a drama-romance because it is about families and dealing with tragedies, but also love and belonging. I went from tearing up one minute to a huge smile on my face. This book pulled different emotions out of me and I enjoyed every second of it.
There is a romance of course. Though I do have to say the only thing missing in this book for me was a little more chemistry. It took a long time before I saw any spark between the main couple. The sex scenes are all fade to black. I don’t really think that is why the characters had less chemistry for me. But I think it was a missed opportunity to strengthen the chemistry. I do want to make clear though, this couple absolutely had a bond together. I believed that love was happening between them. It is just more about two people connecting through love, than a steamy passionate love. I hope that makes some sense. The point is I still enjoyed the romance.
This is only the third book I have read by Werlinger, but it is absolutely my favorite. If you are a drama-romance fan and are looking for a well written, enjoyable book, give this a chance. I don’t think you will be disappointed. I can’t wait to read more of her books, especially her fantasy series.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley, for a honest review.
August 14, 2018
Lovely read! Heartwarming at times with some very good storytelling and writing. Recommended to everyone!
** lov2! - huge 'THANK YOU' for this rec. ;)
** lov2! - huge 'THANK YOU' for this rec. ;)
September 5, 2020
This is my third full five stars book by Caren J. Werlinger, and my favorite so far. She has a great way with words and really knows how to write an excellent and compelling story. In the beautiful and heartwarming When the Stars Sang I would not change a single word because it is perfect the way it is (plot, pacing, characterization, setting... just about everything). Even the e-book is very attractive from a technical point of view (formatting, error-free, cover...), an example how it should be done. All in all, the whole package is for my 5-stars-plus shelf. Highly recommended for everyone!
5 plus stars
June 27, 2018
5 plus stars
June 27, 2018
September 20, 2019
I’ve always believed (and still believe) that Paris is the most beautiful city in the world. However, as time goes by, I find myself more and more drawn to quieter, less populated places. It’s no surprise, then, that I am a little envious of what Kathleen found on Little Sister. Not so much the love of her life (I found mine twenty-five years ago) but the environment, the beauty, the quiet, and the community which prevents it all from being lonely. When I first read When the Stars Sang, in December 2018, my review was short and to the point: « Beautiful! Touching and heartwarming. I loved it. » Still true, but now that I’ve listened to the audiobook version, narrated by Ann Etter, I’m going to try and be a little more specific.
When she arrives on Little Sister, a tiny island off the coast of Maine, Kathleen doesn’t know much about life there, apart from what she remembers from her visits to her grand-mother as a child. She hasn’t set foot on the island in twenty-five years, since the death of her brother. Yet she’s planning on settling there, away from the unhappy place her life has been so far. When her brother died in a tragic accident, her parents more or less forgot all about her. She is so used to not being loved that she has been content so far in a relationship with a woman who mostly seems to want her when she’s ready to leave (she has her own problems to deal with, mainly an abusive father). Not everyone is happy to see Kathleen return to the island, though. The locals are wary of foreigners, or more precisely of rich foreigners whose only interest in the island would be to build huge mansions with no respect for their way of life. And what an interesting way of life it is! The islanders are descendants of First Ones (the people who first lived on the island) and survivors of an Irish ship which capsized near the coast a few generations ago. Their traditions reflect that mix too, taking from both cultures in a very organic way.
At first, some of the islanders are convinced Kathleen won’t last when she realises the ferry doesn’t come everyday, her cell phone won’t work, winds and storms will wreak havoc on electricity and internet access. One of those is the island sheriff, Molly, who holds Kathleen responsible, at least in part, for her brother’s problems, even though she knows how unfair that is. So now you know who’s going to fall in love with whom.
I loved watching Kathleen shed her unhappy and reserved self and grow into herself on the island. The process didn’t seem painful but it wasn’t easy either. « You’re serious? » is probably the question she asks the most in the course of the story, as she finds out about the ways of the island. Other reviewers have commented on the lack of chemistry between Molly and Kathleen, and I can’t disagree, since their relationship seems to come from a more cerebral place, from learning to know and respect and trust each other. Also, the environment, the island itself, its history, its customs play a huge role in their relationship, and the two of them are just part of it. The other inhabitants of the island are another. I can’t list all the secondary characters, but each and every one of those mentioned at some point in the book has depth and a real personality (even the dog, the cat and the gull).
As always with Caren J. Werlinger’s books, I am left with a lingering feeling of poetry and something surreal, almost dreamlike, but definitely heartwarming.
When she arrives on Little Sister, a tiny island off the coast of Maine, Kathleen doesn’t know much about life there, apart from what she remembers from her visits to her grand-mother as a child. She hasn’t set foot on the island in twenty-five years, since the death of her brother. Yet she’s planning on settling there, away from the unhappy place her life has been so far. When her brother died in a tragic accident, her parents more or less forgot all about her. She is so used to not being loved that she has been content so far in a relationship with a woman who mostly seems to want her when she’s ready to leave (she has her own problems to deal with, mainly an abusive father). Not everyone is happy to see Kathleen return to the island, though. The locals are wary of foreigners, or more precisely of rich foreigners whose only interest in the island would be to build huge mansions with no respect for their way of life. And what an interesting way of life it is! The islanders are descendants of First Ones (the people who first lived on the island) and survivors of an Irish ship which capsized near the coast a few generations ago. Their traditions reflect that mix too, taking from both cultures in a very organic way.
At first, some of the islanders are convinced Kathleen won’t last when she realises the ferry doesn’t come everyday, her cell phone won’t work, winds and storms will wreak havoc on electricity and internet access. One of those is the island sheriff, Molly, who holds Kathleen responsible, at least in part, for her brother’s problems, even though she knows how unfair that is. So now you know who’s going to fall in love with whom.
I loved watching Kathleen shed her unhappy and reserved self and grow into herself on the island. The process didn’t seem painful but it wasn’t easy either. « You’re serious? » is probably the question she asks the most in the course of the story, as she finds out about the ways of the island. Other reviewers have commented on the lack of chemistry between Molly and Kathleen, and I can’t disagree, since their relationship seems to come from a more cerebral place, from learning to know and respect and trust each other. Also, the environment, the island itself, its history, its customs play a huge role in their relationship, and the two of them are just part of it. The other inhabitants of the island are another. I can’t list all the secondary characters, but each and every one of those mentioned at some point in the book has depth and a real personality (even the dog, the cat and the gull).
As always with Caren J. Werlinger’s books, I am left with a lingering feeling of poetry and something surreal, almost dreamlike, but definitely heartwarming.
July 22, 2019
I had no expectations starting this book even though the ratings and reviews were very good! So I’m not surprised that I really enjoyed it!
What I liked most is the writing style which was brilliant ! The story was very heartwarming as well. The supporting characters played a bigger role than I expected. To be honest I think I preferred the supporting characters more than the MCs. The dynamics of the island and the drama was very entertaining :)
One thing I missed in the book was the connection and chemistry between the MCs. I just didn’t feel the love there unfortunately so the book kind of lacked in the romance side.
But overall I rate it at 3.5 rounded up to 4 :)
What I liked most is the writing style which was brilliant ! The story was very heartwarming as well. The supporting characters played a bigger role than I expected. To be honest I think I preferred the supporting characters more than the MCs. The dynamics of the island and the drama was very entertaining :)
One thing I missed in the book was the connection and chemistry between the MCs. I just didn’t feel the love there unfortunately so the book kind of lacked in the romance side.
But overall I rate it at 3.5 rounded up to 4 :)
February 16, 2019
When LK mentioned When The Stars Sang in her review on the author's latest release, I checked the book's availability on Scribd, downloaded it and went in blind. How pleasantly surprised I was when it started with Kathleen (h) on a ferry, on her way to The Little Sister Island. I knew there and then, this book and I were going to get along just fine.
The Little Sister Island
This island was not as big and famous as its neighbouring island but it was more beautiful geographically and well looked after by its residents. Nature wasn't sacrificed even for housing, they practiced energy conservation and when push came to shove - they worked hard as a team to make the island a self sustaining one with the usage of renewable energies. I was jealous of them, nothing was blocking their view of the sea.
The Residents of The Little Sister Island
Most of the secondary characters appeared frequently in the story and were given good characterization. I loved every single one of them, they looked after each other through thin and thick, they were unselfish, protective, loving and non judgemental.
The Romance
It wasn't love at first sight, as cupid was still busy with Valentine's Day. At first, Molly wasn't comfortable having Kathleen back to the island but circumstances / events caused them to spend time together, got to know each other a little bit more as they went through their daily lives. Both were cautious in pursuing a relationship as Molly had limited experience and Kathleen just walked away from a 14 years relationship. I didn't chant OMG when they finally got together but I was happy.
The Food
Food played an important role in WTSS, the home-cooked food were able to give the Michelin star restaurants a run for their money. The islanders' generosity knew no bounds when it came to food.
Conclusion
I bought the book right after finishing it. The story captured my heart and I loved that it was so much more than just a love story.
The Little Sister Island
This island was not as big and famous as its neighbouring island but it was more beautiful geographically and well looked after by its residents. Nature wasn't sacrificed even for housing, they practiced energy conservation and when push came to shove - they worked hard as a team to make the island a self sustaining one with the usage of renewable energies. I was jealous of them, nothing was blocking their view of the sea.
The Residents of The Little Sister Island
Most of the secondary characters appeared frequently in the story and were given good characterization. I loved every single one of them, they looked after each other through thin and thick, they were unselfish, protective, loving and non judgemental.
The Romance
It wasn't love at first sight, as cupid was still busy with Valentine's Day. At first, Molly wasn't comfortable having Kathleen back to the island but circumstances / events caused them to spend time together, got to know each other a little bit more as they went through their daily lives. Both were cautious in pursuing a relationship as Molly had limited experience and Kathleen just walked away from a 14 years relationship. I didn't chant OMG when they finally got together but I was happy.
The Food
Food played an important role in WTSS, the home-cooked food were able to give the Michelin star restaurants a run for their money. The islanders' generosity knew no bounds when it came to food.
Conclusion
I bought the book right after finishing it. The story captured my heart and I loved that it was so much more than just a love story.
August 12, 2018
5 Stars for this Drama-Romance told through the two main characters, Kathleen & Molly.
Kathleen Halloran returns to Little Sister Island for the first time in 24 yrs. Up until she was 10, she and her older brother would spend their summers with their grandmother (Nanna). She hadn’t been back since her brother tragically drowned in waters off the island.
Kathleen leaves her long-time girlfriend and estranged parents with her few possessions to escape to her Nanna’s cottage. Kathleen has a lot of issues to resolve in her life and heart. She is terribly lonely and this magical island, with its close knit inhabitants just might be her cure.
There is a large number of characters in this book and Werlinger does a masterful job with each - I was never overwhelmed. Another reviewer mentioned Robin Alexander, who has quirky, eccentric side characters and so does Werlinger but they are not over the top and not played for comic relief.A favorite are the elderly unmarried sisters, Louisa & Olivia who were Nanna’s best friends. I was going to describe them but it’s best that you meet them and their father yourself. Oh, I can’t forget Blossom! A stray dog that Kathleen rescues who became Kathleen ‘s constant companion.
Then there is the other MC, Molly Cooper, a native, the sheriff and island handyman. She is certain that Kathleen will not stay long. This was a nice slow burn romance. It really couldn’t be fast because Kathleen had a lot of growth and issues to resolve first as she slowly settles into her new home. Early on Molly’s family welcomed Kathleen into their fold. I loved the passage when Kathleen goes to the Cooper’s to celebrate Christmas-
// A seventh stocking was hanging from the mantel, embroidered with “Kathleen”. She went to the fireplace and touched a finger to the bulging stocking. Aidan glanced up from where he was setting her bag near the tree. “It’s just a stocking.” Kathleen swallowed hard. “No. It isn’t.” //
Another interesting aspect of this book is the Island’s origin story and the blending of two cultures. In the 1700s, the island’s original inhabitants “The First Ones” rescued a group of shipwrecked Irish families. They intermarried and also blended their Catholic and pagan traditions and beliefs.
An excellent book that is so well written. This is a book that I will definitely re-read.
Kathleen Halloran returns to Little Sister Island for the first time in 24 yrs. Up until she was 10, she and her older brother would spend their summers with their grandmother (Nanna). She hadn’t been back since her brother tragically drowned in waters off the island.
Kathleen leaves her long-time girlfriend and estranged parents with her few possessions to escape to her Nanna’s cottage. Kathleen has a lot of issues to resolve in her life and heart. She is terribly lonely and this magical island, with its close knit inhabitants just might be her cure.
There is a large number of characters in this book and Werlinger does a masterful job with each - I was never overwhelmed. Another reviewer mentioned Robin Alexander, who has quirky, eccentric side characters and so does Werlinger but they are not over the top and not played for comic relief.A favorite are the elderly unmarried sisters, Louisa & Olivia who were Nanna’s best friends. I was going to describe them but it’s best that you meet them and their father yourself. Oh, I can’t forget Blossom! A stray dog that Kathleen rescues who became Kathleen ‘s constant companion.
Then there is the other MC, Molly Cooper, a native, the sheriff and island handyman. She is certain that Kathleen will not stay long. This was a nice slow burn romance. It really couldn’t be fast because Kathleen had a lot of growth and issues to resolve first as she slowly settles into her new home. Early on Molly’s family welcomed Kathleen into their fold. I loved the passage when Kathleen goes to the Cooper’s to celebrate Christmas-
// A seventh stocking was hanging from the mantel, embroidered with “Kathleen”. She went to the fireplace and touched a finger to the bulging stocking. Aidan glanced up from where he was setting her bag near the tree. “It’s just a stocking.” Kathleen swallowed hard. “No. It isn’t.” //
Another interesting aspect of this book is the Island’s origin story and the blending of two cultures. In the 1700s, the island’s original inhabitants “The First Ones” rescued a group of shipwrecked Irish families. They intermarried and also blended their Catholic and pagan traditions and beliefs.
An excellent book that is so well written. This is a book that I will definitely re-read.
September 19, 2022
*Reread in anticipation of the third book, The New Shore is released. Love this book as much as I did on the first read.
Caren Werlinger is a master storyteller. She brings her characters to life and drops them fully formed into locations you can easily visualize and want to visit. Kathleen and Molly are the couple we are meant to root for and hope they find their HEA but Little Sister Island is filled with many others who draw you into their world and make you appreciate this return to a simpler way of life.
I loved how protective the locals are of each other and of their way of life on this tiny and somewhat magical island. Werlinger adds an element of evil which threatens the status quo and serves to bring the islanders together. I loved the blend of faiths and customs unique to the island and preserved for centuries. Most of all I loved the growth we see in both Kathleen and Molly. Kathleen brings the burden of her past with her onto the island. It's a beautiful thing watching her spirit soar and her heart open to the possibility of love when nurtured by this warm and caring community. Molly has been surrounded by love her whole life. Her devotion to helping others while sacrificing her own needs is honourable but not fulfilling. Both carry burdens better shared with another.
This is a feel good beautiful escapist read. Time to book a cottage on some quaint little island off a coast somewhere.
Caren Werlinger is a master storyteller. She brings her characters to life and drops them fully formed into locations you can easily visualize and want to visit. Kathleen and Molly are the couple we are meant to root for and hope they find their HEA but Little Sister Island is filled with many others who draw you into their world and make you appreciate this return to a simpler way of life.
I loved how protective the locals are of each other and of their way of life on this tiny and somewhat magical island. Werlinger adds an element of evil which threatens the status quo and serves to bring the islanders together. I loved the blend of faiths and customs unique to the island and preserved for centuries. Most of all I loved the growth we see in both Kathleen and Molly. Kathleen brings the burden of her past with her onto the island. It's a beautiful thing watching her spirit soar and her heart open to the possibility of love when nurtured by this warm and caring community. Molly has been surrounded by love her whole life. Her devotion to helping others while sacrificing her own needs is honourable but not fulfilling. Both carry burdens better shared with another.
This is a feel good beautiful escapist read. Time to book a cottage on some quaint little island off a coast somewhere.
September 29, 2022
Wow, this was good, the emotions, the tight knit community on Little Sister, the change of pace, everything. I read this while being in Scotland for a couple of days and I think it made the book resonate even more for me, the change of weather and rugged surroundings it all really worked well together giving the book an extra dimension. I’m not going to write a long review because I’m probably one of the last people to read this, but all I want to say is that I was sad that it ended, but lucky me, there’s two more books to read about Little Sister and it’s wonderful inhabitants.
December 21, 2018
Kathleen Halloran spent every summer of her childhood in her grandmother's house in Little Sister, an isolated island in Maine, until her younger brother died in an accident there. Twenty five years later, after her grandmother died, she decides to move back permanently. But the islanders are a tight community and her arrival stirs old memories and distrust. Among them is Molly Cooper, the attractive part-time sheriff that is less than enthusiastic about the newcomer. But as they get to know each other, their attraction grows and Molly wonders if Kathleen's past will make her bond with the island or take her away forever.
This is a very good novel by Ms. Werlinger with many different ingredients like drama, angst, humour and romance in a delicate balance. Written in third person from the point of view of both main characters Kathleen and Molly, the story unveils slowly ideal for taking all in.
Ms. Werlinger builds an interesting world in this small island. She takes her time describing how the islanders blend their Irish and native (First Ones) heritage, their mix of Paganism and Catholicism, a culture not attached to consumerism or property laws and very close to nature.
There are lots of secondary characters but Ms. Werlinger introduces them slowly and each with their own distinct personalities so it's not a burden on the reader to recognise them. There are different types such as extroverts, introverts, mystic, caring, loyal, and even quirky, like in Robin Alexander's books. There is also space for a very cute dog.
My only issue with this book is that I couldn’t feel the sexual intimacy between the main characters, they feel more like life companions, lacking passion. It doesn't help that all sex scenes are fade to black. It's a minor issue because this story isn't solely a romance. Additionally, the villain characters, especially Kathleen's parents, seem a bit stereotyped and the story could have gained from getting to know them better in their suffering. Having said that, this is a very enjoyable book for those who are looking to read a life story rather than a romance.
Overall, a very good book about life in a small and tight community. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
This is a very good novel by Ms. Werlinger with many different ingredients like drama, angst, humour and romance in a delicate balance. Written in third person from the point of view of both main characters Kathleen and Molly, the story unveils slowly ideal for taking all in.
Ms. Werlinger builds an interesting world in this small island. She takes her time describing how the islanders blend their Irish and native (First Ones) heritage, their mix of Paganism and Catholicism, a culture not attached to consumerism or property laws and very close to nature.
There are lots of secondary characters but Ms. Werlinger introduces them slowly and each with their own distinct personalities so it's not a burden on the reader to recognise them. There are different types such as extroverts, introverts, mystic, caring, loyal, and even quirky, like in Robin Alexander's books. There is also space for a very cute dog.
My only issue with this book is that I couldn’t feel the sexual intimacy between the main characters, they feel more like life companions, lacking passion. It doesn't help that all sex scenes are fade to black. It's a minor issue because this story isn't solely a romance. Additionally, the villain characters, especially Kathleen's parents, seem a bit stereotyped and the story could have gained from getting to know them better in their suffering. Having said that, this is a very enjoyable book for those who are looking to read a life story rather than a romance.
Overall, a very good book about life in a small and tight community. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
May 23, 2018
When her nanna dies, Kathleen (Katie) Halloran - a woman, unloved by her parents and girlfriend – leaves her old life behind to come back to the small island of Little Sister. A place that holds so many happy childhood memories of summers spent with her grandmother, but also a place where her brother tragically died almost 25 years ago. Crippled with survivors guilt (fueled by an uncaring, cold mother) and an eroded feeling of self-worth (result of a 15 year relationship with a selfish partner), Kate has a tough road ahead if she wants to survive her first winter on this small rock. But she learns that the people of Little Sister (and Molly Ahearn Cooper in particular) are a community like no other.
Caren Werlinger has written a terrific book. I loved the island’s mix of Celtic and First Ones traditions, the wonderful cast of characters and their quirky habits. It’s a feel good story about slaying your inner demons and standing up for yourself, about continuity, about a small island community coming together in times of adversity and of course about love. I highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: islanders, sisters Louisa and Olivia Woodhouse are so colorful, I love that they take daddy’s ashes everywhere they go, can I have a Molly of my own?
5 stars
Caren Werlinger has written a terrific book. I loved the island’s mix of Celtic and First Ones traditions, the wonderful cast of characters and their quirky habits. It’s a feel good story about slaying your inner demons and standing up for yourself, about continuity, about a small island community coming together in times of adversity and of course about love. I highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: islanders, sisters Louisa and Olivia Woodhouse are so colorful, I love that they take daddy’s ashes everywhere they go, can I have a Molly of my own?
5 stars
December 1, 2019
Glad I grabbed this one and will definitely be reading more from this author. Likable characters with this spirituality driven by the amazing island setting. Werlinger is one of those authors that can transport you to a place that you don’t want to leave. I had to take a break while reading this book and when I was able to go back to it, it was like going home. I wanted to see what was happening in this awesome place. Even wondered what it would be like to live there full time. Too bad my wife would never move to a non tropical island!
August 15, 2018
I wasn’t going to review this because it’s already been done so well by so many others, but I’m still thinking about it more than 24 hours later. So, here we are.
‘When the Stars Sang’ was an ok romance, but a great book. I loved the island and supporting characters more than the main romance that was the focus of the story. Kathleen and Molly were fine together, but their love affair didn’t shine. There was little chemistry, but their relationship was more about understanding, respect, and trust than it was about flirtation and passion. Regardless, I really enjoyed reading ‘When the Stars Sang’ because I loved the sense of community and the fun side characters so much. The relationships amongst family and the ties of all inhabitants of Little Sister Island were really wonderful.
I am mainly a romance reader at this point (I never in a million years would have suspected that 5 years ago), but I also love books that can take me someplace I’ve never been and experience things I will never experience. I spent a lot of time looking up remote, but inhabited, islands while I was reading this, so I also found myself learning little things along the way. I think I romanticized the lifestyle more than the couple in this book. I grew up in what, at the time, felt like an isolated village in Vermont. We had roughly 700 residents, but Little Sister has (it’s estimated by one of of the mains) 80 or so residents. I can’t even fathom that type of isolation out in the middle of the ocean, but each resident treats the other as family; they trust, respect, take care of, and depend on one another and I just found it so comforting.
Anyway, I definitely recommend this book, not for the romance (though it wasn’t awful), but the setting and community that exists in the world Werlinger has created. I loved it and will definitely be reading through her list of books. I’ve read a few, but so far, this has been my favorite.
‘When the Stars Sang’ was an ok romance, but a great book. I loved the island and supporting characters more than the main romance that was the focus of the story. Kathleen and Molly were fine together, but their love affair didn’t shine. There was little chemistry, but their relationship was more about understanding, respect, and trust than it was about flirtation and passion. Regardless, I really enjoyed reading ‘When the Stars Sang’ because I loved the sense of community and the fun side characters so much. The relationships amongst family and the ties of all inhabitants of Little Sister Island were really wonderful.
I am mainly a romance reader at this point (I never in a million years would have suspected that 5 years ago), but I also love books that can take me someplace I’ve never been and experience things I will never experience. I spent a lot of time looking up remote, but inhabited, islands while I was reading this, so I also found myself learning little things along the way. I think I romanticized the lifestyle more than the couple in this book. I grew up in what, at the time, felt like an isolated village in Vermont. We had roughly 700 residents, but Little Sister has (it’s estimated by one of of the mains) 80 or so residents. I can’t even fathom that type of isolation out in the middle of the ocean, but each resident treats the other as family; they trust, respect, take care of, and depend on one another and I just found it so comforting.
Anyway, I definitely recommend this book, not for the romance (though it wasn’t awful), but the setting and community that exists in the world Werlinger has created. I loved it and will definitely be reading through her list of books. I’ve read a few, but so far, this has been my favorite.
March 19, 2019
I know everybody loves this book but I had a real stop and go read at the beginning. Maybe I just wasn’t in the right headspace for it. The book has a surreal flavor and I wasn’t sure how to feel as I progressed onward except for a general creepiness. About a third of the way through, claustrophobia and a feeling of being trapped settled into my chest, especially when one of the islanders said to the main, “You’re one of ours now.” But Kathleen seemed to dig it, describing the situation as a wonderful sense of belonging. To each her own, I guess.
Then out of nowhere, the book turned and I could see the author working hard on something special, a turn of a phrase or key gestures all intertwining into a complex and emotionally potent tale. A ton of skill here. And oh my god, those childhood bruises that never heal and forever keep you from being whole again. It was a tough finish for me but not a reflection on the story or writing. I think this time it was all me and my reaction to the material. Great story and phenomenal writing. I also enjoyed the details on rituals and history that the author wove into the book.
Then out of nowhere, the book turned and I could see the author working hard on something special, a turn of a phrase or key gestures all intertwining into a complex and emotionally potent tale. A ton of skill here. And oh my god, those childhood bruises that never heal and forever keep you from being whole again. It was a tough finish for me but not a reflection on the story or writing. I think this time it was all me and my reaction to the material. Great story and phenomenal writing. I also enjoyed the details on rituals and history that the author wove into the book.
March 18, 2018
Really enjoyable
This is the first book I have read from this author and am now looking into her other ones. I really enjoyed the book. Its more than about romance between Molly and Katie...its community amd being a part of something bigger. The community feeling almost felt like the community in HP Munro's Grace Falls less the comedy but in the sense that the supporting characters are just as important. I also like how not all the drama came at one time and it wasn't overally done...it was just right for me. I recommend this book and hope there is more from this author that will interest me
This is the first book I have read from this author and am now looking into her other ones. I really enjoyed the book. Its more than about romance between Molly and Katie...its community amd being a part of something bigger. The community feeling almost felt like the community in HP Munro's Grace Falls less the comedy but in the sense that the supporting characters are just as important. I also like how not all the drama came at one time and it wasn't overally done...it was just right for me. I recommend this book and hope there is more from this author that will interest me
July 9, 2021
Damn this was good!
My parents always told me that there's no worse feeling than losing your child when you're meant to go before them. They dealt with my older brothers death in their own way except they forgot about their other kid in the process.
It's not something you can easily forget... not when you're that kid, not when you're growing up and not even when you're an adult. Even if you've given your forgiveness.
This hit close to home. Too close.
My parents always told me that there's no worse feeling than losing your child when you're meant to go before them. They dealt with my older brothers death in their own way except they forgot about their other kid in the process.
It's not something you can easily forget... not when you're that kid, not when you're growing up and not even when you're an adult. Even if you've given your forgiveness.
This hit close to home. Too close.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2018
Loved it
This is an awesome book. Numerous story lines and the author blends them beautifully. It has some cool, interesting cultural ceremonies that make it unique amongst romance novels. It’s also nice and long. I highly recommend it.
This is an awesome book. Numerous story lines and the author blends them beautifully. It has some cool, interesting cultural ceremonies that make it unique amongst romance novels. It’s also nice and long. I highly recommend it.
March 13, 2022
I LOVED IT !!!!
The paperback will definitely be on its way to my bookshelf sooner rather than later
The paperback will definitely be on its way to my bookshelf sooner rather than later
March 6, 2019
Caren J. Werlinger's "When The Stars Sang" was my first book of hers since I stumbled upon several reviews of her latest, "Bittersweet Garden," which subsequently piqued my curiosity about her and her work. Needless to say, all credit goes to Lex from GR (cheers, mate!) who thought that this book would be an ideal first one to start with in order to experience Werlinger's writing and storytelling style. I was captivated by the story from the start. So, it was a quick read for me, obvs! Werlinger's writing style was compelling. The story and its characters, primary and secondary, alike, weaved into each other so effortless, they formed a perfect tapestry.
"When The Stars Sang," to me, is essentially a story about loss, guilt, love, forgiveness and letting go, personified with zeal by its main protagonist, Kathleen. Werlinger also posed this question, "What is family?", as Kathleen journeyed through her second chance at living her life. I utterly loved that Werlinger chose a tiny, remote island as Kathleen's sanctuary for solitude, self-reflection and self-discovery. An island that had been floating in the recesses of her mind for the past 25 years since she left, calling to her, the voice getting louder as time went by, to a point where she couldn't ignore it anymore. It's like two magnets attracting each other. To me, that's so symbolic. Our path, our life journey is like a compass. We all have our own True North that completes us - our TRUE self. Only then are we able to discover life, love, family, spirituality. We're programmed to find it as we journey through life. Kathleen's True North was the island and its inhabitants.
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
"When The Stars Sang," to me, is essentially a story about loss, guilt, love, forgiveness and letting go, personified with zeal by its main protagonist, Kathleen. Werlinger also posed this question, "What is family?", as Kathleen journeyed through her second chance at living her life. I utterly loved that Werlinger chose a tiny, remote island as Kathleen's sanctuary for solitude, self-reflection and self-discovery. An island that had been floating in the recesses of her mind for the past 25 years since she left, calling to her, the voice getting louder as time went by, to a point where she couldn't ignore it anymore. It's like two magnets attracting each other. To me, that's so symbolic. Our path, our life journey is like a compass. We all have our own True North that completes us - our TRUE self. Only then are we able to discover life, love, family, spirituality. We're programmed to find it as we journey through life. Kathleen's True North was the island and its inhabitants.
Full commentary here... In Bugs' Own Words
June 30, 2018
This book had me hooked from the first page. Immediately I found myself charmed by the people living on Little Sister island. Sure they're a little quirky and have one or two odd rituals involving nudity but their overall kindness and compassion makes up for it.
As for our main characters, Kathleen was a joy to read about. I really liked the transformation she made from when she first arrived on the island as a guarded and wounded woman who ran away from her problems, to someone who learned to stand up for herself and face those same problems head on. Needless to say her character growth was impressive.
I really didn't like Molly in the beginning. Though I understood why she was not the most welcoming person when it came to Kathleen's presence on the island, it still took me a while to warm up to her. She eventually managed to finally win me over though and I was glad to see that even though she and Kathleen had their problems, they eventually managed to talk through their issues without too much unnecessary drama.
Though I did like these women as a couple I felt their chemistry lacking a little. It felt like I was missing all the heated looks that can create sexual tension. Even though the sex scenes were fade to black you can still create passion but I just didn't get that between Kathleen and Molly. Their's was definitely a more loving and tender relationship.
The book did have one or two issues that bugged me a little. The main one being Kathleen's parents. They along with Kathleen's manipulating ex girlfriend really felt like mustache twirling villains.
Overall this gets a solid 4* rating.
As for our main characters, Kathleen was a joy to read about. I really liked the transformation she made from when she first arrived on the island as a guarded and wounded woman who ran away from her problems, to someone who learned to stand up for herself and face those same problems head on. Needless to say her character growth was impressive.
I really didn't like Molly in the beginning. Though I understood why she was not the most welcoming person when it came to Kathleen's presence on the island, it still took me a while to warm up to her. She eventually managed to finally win me over though and I was glad to see that even though she and Kathleen had their problems, they eventually managed to talk through their issues without too much unnecessary drama.
Though I did like these women as a couple I felt their chemistry lacking a little. It felt like I was missing all the heated looks that can create sexual tension. Even though the sex scenes were fade to black you can still create passion but I just didn't get that between Kathleen and Molly. Their's was definitely a more loving and tender relationship.
The book did have one or two issues that bugged me a little. The main one being Kathleen's parents. They along with Kathleen's manipulating ex girlfriend really felt like mustache twirling villains.
Overall this gets a solid 4* rating.
September 30, 2022
I rec'd a copy from NetGalley/Corgyn Publishing in exchange for an honest review. No synopsis needed.
Main leads are Molly (Mo) and Katie (Kathleen) in this romance with angst, drama and light comedy. Beautifully written descriptions with an easy flowing realistic storyline and an able, neatly interwoven supporting cast, I found myself reading slowly and at the end - fully satisfied. I easily recommend this read as one of Ms. Werlinger's best.
5 stars.
Main leads are Molly (Mo) and Katie (Kathleen) in this romance with angst, drama and light comedy. Beautifully written descriptions with an easy flowing realistic storyline and an able, neatly interwoven supporting cast, I found myself reading slowly and at the end - fully satisfied. I easily recommend this read as one of Ms. Werlinger's best.
5 stars.
November 12, 2022
This is the first part of Little Sister saga. Here we are introduced to Kathleen’s landing on the island and her struggle with fatal accident that happened when she was just ten. Her entire life, including her connection with her parents, was impacted by that accident. Along with Kathleen the reader is presented to many fascinating characters who have unique backstories.
The story in this book sounds like many others of that kind. The literary style of Caren Werlinger is what distinguishes it, though. The author skillfully combines mystery, drama, romance with ordinary activities of the characters. I feel seduced by each paragraph that Caren writes. It’s just impossible to put the book down without knowing what will happen to each of the characters in the following chapter. It's tricky because it leads to late-night binge reading where I'm mesmerised page by page.
The story in this book sounds like many others of that kind. The literary style of Caren Werlinger is what distinguishes it, though. The author skillfully combines mystery, drama, romance with ordinary activities of the characters. I feel seduced by each paragraph that Caren writes. It’s just impossible to put the book down without knowing what will happen to each of the characters in the following chapter. It's tricky because it leads to late-night binge reading where I'm mesmerised page by page.
July 20, 2021
I don't think I can add much more than the other stellar reviewers have already commented on. This was a surprise, I didn't know anything about it beforehand, but was drawn in right away to the "islanders life." There was something simple and beautiful about how everyone took care of one another accepted each other's quirks and backgrounds, and followed their ancestors' practices and faith for generations. This was a welcome respite.
May 4, 2018
The perfect read, I feel so content reading this.
Not only we got connected to the protagonists, but the other characters as well. Werlinger's books always have the depth it needed to become original and unique from others. Always new traditions I've never heard of.
Not only we got connected to the protagonists, but the other characters as well. Werlinger's books always have the depth it needed to become original and unique from others. Always new traditions I've never heard of.
September 21, 2018
It is a great story to get lost in.
October 3, 2022
Another great Werlinger book. I’ll be reading books 2and 3 in this series next. The feels in this book are fantastic and Werlinger does a great job of setting the scene on the island.
And nothing can be more brave than putting your heart out to the one you love.
And nothing can be more brave than putting your heart out to the one you love.
September 29, 2020
A really spiritual and metaphysical story, with a lot of feeling and emotion.
I really felt for Kathleen and her circumstances and longed for her to reach a place of healing and confidence. I was so delighted to see her grow and see her own value in the story, with the help from the island residents who were so wonderful in their kindness and support.
The heavy feeling of the past weighted down so clearly in the book, and the author is to be commended for really getting across that feeling.
But also the feeling of acceptance, forgiveness and self realization and all the good things that come out of the otherwise horrible circumstances.
It was touching seeing Kathleen and Molly fall in love, and commit to eachother and the island. I really look forward to the sequel.
I really felt for Kathleen and her circumstances and longed for her to reach a place of healing and confidence. I was so delighted to see her grow and see her own value in the story, with the help from the island residents who were so wonderful in their kindness and support.
The heavy feeling of the past weighted down so clearly in the book, and the author is to be commended for really getting across that feeling.
But also the feeling of acceptance, forgiveness and self realization and all the good things that come out of the otherwise horrible circumstances.
It was touching seeing Kathleen and Molly fall in love, and commit to eachother and the island. I really look forward to the sequel.
October 12, 2021
Some novels are just pure poetry and magical
This is the first book I’ve read by Caren J. Werlinger, and how I ended up here it’s funny, because it’s the result of listening to her performing a song in a Facebook group. Her words, her poetry, her remote lullaby speaking of ancient truths pushed me to start reading something by her, and many readers suggested When the Stars Sang. So, in a way, I did hear already her voice singing in my head: "Read me, read me".
It wasn’t then a surprise, after reading it, to find that what I felt in that song was reflected also in the words of this novel. I love ancient traditions, myths, and legends and if all of this makes it as a background to a beautiful and romantic love story, I’m all for it.
Living in Philadelphia, trapped in a life that is slowly suffocating her, Kathleen decides to run away from her absent parents and her partner, whom she shared 15 years of her life with. She’s running away from a terrible past and a static present, with no future ahead, and the only place she thinks of moving to it’s the Little Island where her grandma used to live, and where she and her family used to spend time when she was younger. Returning to the Island after 25 years will bring back all the memories from her past and force her to confront it. It’s a beautiful journey from sorrow, sense of guilt to freedom, forgiveness and happiness.
I’m writing down this review and I’m listening to one of my favorite playlists on Spotify, “Irish Cello”, as I think it’s spot-on for this novel, and it helps me express my feelings after reading it. Hadn’t the title been When the Stars Sang (which I think it’s perfect, as it’s the quote by Rossetti), I would have thought for sure that it could have been something about the wind, the mist or the storms. It is, indeed, peculiar that the very first line of the novel recites “A BLAST OF COLD WIND hit Kathleen”, and I don’t think it’s surprising that the words wind/storm/cold etc. are repeated so many times throughout the novel.
The whole atmosphere of the book is magical and imbued with mysterious traditions that speak volume about the coexistence of pagan beliefs even in nowadays life. Loved the powerful representation of the 4 elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire and the spirituality of that. All it’s linked, all happens for a reason; Life and Death are part of who we are, it’s the way we deal with them and accept them that sets us free or encages us.
Kathleen’s journey is not only a winding road back to her roots, but it’s also steep climb to discover who she truly is and to freedom and love. You can’t heal from the past if you don’t face it. It’s a beautiful message Caren J. Werlinger sent through her book. Finding home... everybody wants that.
What I also loved so much in When the Stars Sang is the sense of community of Little Island: everybody helping each other, not for second reasons, but only because you want to: you want to do good; you want the others to be happy. And this happiness is also connected in a way to the return to Nature, to a simpler life with less commodities, where you can enjoy the quiet after the tempest and a sky lit only by stars.
It’s like Kathleen’s eyesight was blurred by an initial mist and then in the course of the book she’s finally able to see for the first time, thanks to all the inhabitants of Little Island and especially Molly, whose character I simply adored. Some characters stay with me for a long time, and her selfness, her good-hearted nature and sort of loneliness and melancholy will always be dear to me.
Beautifully written, even healing in a way, strong main characters development and funny and sweet side characters and some characters that maybe could use some redeeming from their faults… maybe in the sequel? You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends? Well… friends can become family too…
This is the first book I’ve read by Caren J. Werlinger, and how I ended up here it’s funny, because it’s the result of listening to her performing a song in a Facebook group. Her words, her poetry, her remote lullaby speaking of ancient truths pushed me to start reading something by her, and many readers suggested When the Stars Sang. So, in a way, I did hear already her voice singing in my head: "Read me, read me".
It wasn’t then a surprise, after reading it, to find that what I felt in that song was reflected also in the words of this novel. I love ancient traditions, myths, and legends and if all of this makes it as a background to a beautiful and romantic love story, I’m all for it.
Living in Philadelphia, trapped in a life that is slowly suffocating her, Kathleen decides to run away from her absent parents and her partner, whom she shared 15 years of her life with. She’s running away from a terrible past and a static present, with no future ahead, and the only place she thinks of moving to it’s the Little Island where her grandma used to live, and where she and her family used to spend time when she was younger. Returning to the Island after 25 years will bring back all the memories from her past and force her to confront it. It’s a beautiful journey from sorrow, sense of guilt to freedom, forgiveness and happiness.
I’m writing down this review and I’m listening to one of my favorite playlists on Spotify, “Irish Cello”, as I think it’s spot-on for this novel, and it helps me express my feelings after reading it. Hadn’t the title been When the Stars Sang (which I think it’s perfect, as it’s the quote by Rossetti), I would have thought for sure that it could have been something about the wind, the mist or the storms. It is, indeed, peculiar that the very first line of the novel recites “A BLAST OF COLD WIND hit Kathleen”, and I don’t think it’s surprising that the words wind/storm/cold etc. are repeated so many times throughout the novel.
The whole atmosphere of the book is magical and imbued with mysterious traditions that speak volume about the coexistence of pagan beliefs even in nowadays life. Loved the powerful representation of the 4 elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire and the spirituality of that. All it’s linked, all happens for a reason; Life and Death are part of who we are, it’s the way we deal with them and accept them that sets us free or encages us.
Kathleen’s journey is not only a winding road back to her roots, but it’s also steep climb to discover who she truly is and to freedom and love. You can’t heal from the past if you don’t face it. It’s a beautiful message Caren J. Werlinger sent through her book. Finding home... everybody wants that.
What I also loved so much in When the Stars Sang is the sense of community of Little Island: everybody helping each other, not for second reasons, but only because you want to: you want to do good; you want the others to be happy. And this happiness is also connected in a way to the return to Nature, to a simpler life with less commodities, where you can enjoy the quiet after the tempest and a sky lit only by stars.
It’s like Kathleen’s eyesight was blurred by an initial mist and then in the course of the book she’s finally able to see for the first time, thanks to all the inhabitants of Little Island and especially Molly, whose character I simply adored. Some characters stay with me for a long time, and her selfness, her good-hearted nature and sort of loneliness and melancholy will always be dear to me.
Beautifully written, even healing in a way, strong main characters development and funny and sweet side characters and some characters that maybe could use some redeeming from their faults… maybe in the sequel? You can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends? Well… friends can become family too…
March 24, 2018
I think this is a beautiful story. The book is about Kathleen ran away from her life i think the book is about finding where you belong, forgive oneself and move on with the life that still offering you.
I like how people on the Little Sister island come together, help each other when the problem arise. They stand by each other and such. I like all of the support characters in this book. They are such a heartwarming people.
I dont think the book is focus on romance between the main characters. The romance did happened but its not really the main focus here. It’s more about Kathleen tried to leave her own past, forgiving herself and people that got involved, settle in a new place where she finally can called it ‘home’ and be part of them, i think. 🤔
Well, all in all, i enjoyed the book.
I like how people on the Little Sister island come together, help each other when the problem arise. They stand by each other and such. I like all of the support characters in this book. They are such a heartwarming people.
I dont think the book is focus on romance between the main characters. The romance did happened but its not really the main focus here. It’s more about Kathleen tried to leave her own past, forgiving herself and people that got involved, settle in a new place where she finally can called it ‘home’ and be part of them, i think. 🤔
Well, all in all, i enjoyed the book.
September 7, 2022
When the Star Stung is my first book by Caren J. Werlinger. There’s no wonder why I have heard only good things about her works.
The book feels like an emotional journey that makes me speechless. Utterly beautiful.
The book feels like an emotional journey that makes me speechless. Utterly beautiful.
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