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The Invisible Husband of Frick Island
Sometimes all you need is one person to really see you.
Piper Parrish's life on Frick Island—a tiny, remote town smack in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay—is nearly perfect. Well, aside from one pesky detail: Her darling husband, Tom, is dead. When Tom's crab boat capsized and his body wasn't recovered, Piper, rocked to the core, did a most peculiar thing: carried on as if her husband was not only still alive, but right there beside her, cooking him breakfast, walking him to the docks each morning, meeting him for their standard Friday night dinner date at the One-Eyed Crab. And what were the townspeople to do but go along with their beloved widowed Piper?
Anders Caldwell’s career is not going well. A young ambitious journalist, he’d rather hoped he’d be a national award-winning podcaster by now, rather than writing fluff pieces for a small town newspaper. But when he gets an assignment to travel to the remote Frick Island and cover their boring annual Cake Walk fundraiser, he stumbles upon a much more fascinating tale: an entire town pretending to see and interact with a man who does not actually exist. Determined it’s the career-making story he’s been needing for his podcast, Anders returns to the island to begin covert research and spend more time with the enigmatic Piper—but he has no idea out of all the lives he’s about to upend, it’s his that will change the most.
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Oakley delivers an unforgettable love story about an eccentric community, a grieving widow, and an outsider who slowly learns that sometimes faith is more important than the facts.
Piper Parrish's life on Frick Island—a tiny, remote town smack in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay—is nearly perfect. Well, aside from one pesky detail: Her darling husband, Tom, is dead. When Tom's crab boat capsized and his body wasn't recovered, Piper, rocked to the core, did a most peculiar thing: carried on as if her husband was not only still alive, but right there beside her, cooking him breakfast, walking him to the docks each morning, meeting him for their standard Friday night dinner date at the One-Eyed Crab. And what were the townspeople to do but go along with their beloved widowed Piper?
Anders Caldwell’s career is not going well. A young ambitious journalist, he’d rather hoped he’d be a national award-winning podcaster by now, rather than writing fluff pieces for a small town newspaper. But when he gets an assignment to travel to the remote Frick Island and cover their boring annual Cake Walk fundraiser, he stumbles upon a much more fascinating tale: an entire town pretending to see and interact with a man who does not actually exist. Determined it’s the career-making story he’s been needing for his podcast, Anders returns to the island to begin covert research and spend more time with the enigmatic Piper—but he has no idea out of all the lives he’s about to upend, it’s his that will change the most.
USA Today bestselling author Colleen Oakley delivers an unforgettable love story about an eccentric community, a grieving widow, and an outsider who slowly learns that sometimes faith is more important than the facts.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2021
957 people are currently reading
28811 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Oakley
10 books2,202 followersColleen Oakley is the USA Today bestselling author of The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise, The Invisible Husband of Frick Island, You Were There Too and other unconventional love stories. Her books have been translated into more than 20 languages around the world, lauded by numerous magazines including People, Us Weekly, Library Journal, and Real Simple, and won multiple awards including Georgia Author of the Year. Her sixth novel Jane and Dan at the End of the World will be published by Berkley in March 2025 and has been named a most anticipated book by People, Brit & Co, BookBub, Zibby Media, NerdDaily, SheKnows, The AJC and more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,705 reviews
March 4, 2025
Wow! Get ready to dive into a fantastic mash-up of Groundhog Day (don’t worry, the characters don’t live the same day over and over again—only the small-town setting and a reporter being stuck on an island are similar) meets P.S. I Love You.
Imagine a town frozen in time, where you feel like Marty McFly accidentally traveling back to his parents’ prom. Change seems to be a forbidden word in this town’s vocabulary.
Same stores, same food, same traditions, same people doing the same jobs for years. Everybody knows your name and your story. But poor Anders—sent there to write a mandatory article! He’s already struggling with his job and nursing a broken heart after a sudden breakup. He is definitely not in the mood to write about a town no one cares about. As far as he’s concerned, there’s nothing interesting or extraordinary here—just pure boredom.
But when he gets trapped in town due to bad weather, he stumbles upon one of the most bizarre yet fascinating stories: Piper, a local woman, loses her husband when his crab boat capsizes, and his body is never found. Yet she continues to see him everywhere, refusing to accept his death. And the entire town goes along with her illusion, acting as if his ghost is real and still living among them. Bittersweet, sad, but also deeply intriguing—doesn’t that sound like an unforgettable plot?
This was a clever, humorous, yet emotional and heartwarming story with remarkable, entertaining, and unique characters. Not just Piper and Anders, but the whole town was so charming!
And I loved the ending—especially since I was a little heartbroken over the finale of the author’s previous book. Colleen Oakley is a fantastic writer who masterfully balances comedy with deeply emotional, heavy themes, all with a brilliant touch of romance. This book is a perfect example of her incredible talent!
I’m giving this four ghostly, islander, sweet, feel-good stars—exactly what I needed with a cup of hot cocoa and marshmallows!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Imagine a town frozen in time, where you feel like Marty McFly accidentally traveling back to his parents’ prom. Change seems to be a forbidden word in this town’s vocabulary.
Same stores, same food, same traditions, same people doing the same jobs for years. Everybody knows your name and your story. But poor Anders—sent there to write a mandatory article! He’s already struggling with his job and nursing a broken heart after a sudden breakup. He is definitely not in the mood to write about a town no one cares about. As far as he’s concerned, there’s nothing interesting or extraordinary here—just pure boredom.
But when he gets trapped in town due to bad weather, he stumbles upon one of the most bizarre yet fascinating stories: Piper, a local woman, loses her husband when his crab boat capsizes, and his body is never found. Yet she continues to see him everywhere, refusing to accept his death. And the entire town goes along with her illusion, acting as if his ghost is real and still living among them. Bittersweet, sad, but also deeply intriguing—doesn’t that sound like an unforgettable plot?
This was a clever, humorous, yet emotional and heartwarming story with remarkable, entertaining, and unique characters. Not just Piper and Anders, but the whole town was so charming!
And I loved the ending—especially since I was a little heartbroken over the finale of the author’s previous book. Colleen Oakley is a fantastic writer who masterfully balances comedy with deeply emotional, heavy themes, all with a brilliant touch of romance. This book is a perfect example of her incredible talent!
I’m giving this four ghostly, islander, sweet, feel-good stars—exactly what I needed with a cup of hot cocoa and marshmallows!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Read
May 4, 2021If you’ve read any of Colleen’s books before, you already know she writes knockouts and you should just trust her and go on the ride. But her new one is so inventive and interesting that if you haven’t read her before, now is the perfect time to start. A woman living on a small island loses her husband in a boating accident but can’t bear to face reality. She keeps on going as if he’s still alive. And the townspeople go with it. Until a reporter shows up and tries to shine a light on the whole thing.
August 30, 2021
***NOW AVAILABLE***
The driving force in this book is Piper Parrish and her delusion that her husband is still alive.
It’s a book that made me feel hopeful, because there are good people out there like the ones in this novel !!
Anders is a journalist currently working at a small town newspaper, The Daily Telegraph,usually writing fluff pieces and covering boring events. He has dreams, big ones. He wants to be a famous podcaster, someone who everyone will know, someone who will eventually be invited to appear on Good Morning America (be careful what you wish for). He’s a likable guy, always tries to do the right thing and is learning to love this island and eventually Piper.
Currently he has just been given the assignment to cover a cake walk on Frick Island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay. After doing some research Anders finds that this small island is slowly shrinking, He decides to make a podcast because PEOPLE ARE INTERESTED IN CLIMATE CHANGE and Frick Island is a perfect example!!!
It’s not long before he meets Piper, the town beauty with a tragic past. She is married to Tom, or is she?? Anders is pretty much immediately smitten with Piper, he makes frequent trips to and from the mainland and he is working very hard on his podcast.
So we have two lovely young people, a town of kind people and a mystery. The mystery for anyone new to town is this, is Piper married or not??? If she is, is her husband alive??? Everyone addresses him when they are walking together. Surely the entire island couldn’t all be involved in this ruse??
What will kind people do for the ones they love so that they might be shielded from further hurt??? The answer is WHATEVER IT TAKES and in this case it takes a lot!! An entire town pretending that Piper’s husband is right there with her? Talking to him? They all know that his boat was found after a storm, although his body was never recovered. There is a hint that it might not have been an accident??
What started out as a simple assignment consumes Anders and he can’t think of anything besides Piper and what he may have just done to this island when they all hear his now very popular podcast. He is in love with her. Anders is so confused and concerned, at first his podcast only drew a few hundred people, when he started to write about Piper the numbers kept going up!! First 600 then 700,000 viewers! Should he be showing the world her pain???
No need to know any more of the plot, you will love it, you will tell other people to read it and it will make you feel happy and hopeful. This is a treasure of a book and I hope you enjoy it. Thanks to my good friend Jayme for her great review and introducing me to Ms.Oakley’s wonderful writing.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
The driving force in this book is Piper Parrish and her delusion that her husband is still alive.
It’s a book that made me feel hopeful, because there are good people out there like the ones in this novel !!
Anders is a journalist currently working at a small town newspaper, The Daily Telegraph,usually writing fluff pieces and covering boring events. He has dreams, big ones. He wants to be a famous podcaster, someone who everyone will know, someone who will eventually be invited to appear on Good Morning America (be careful what you wish for). He’s a likable guy, always tries to do the right thing and is learning to love this island and eventually Piper.
Currently he has just been given the assignment to cover a cake walk on Frick Island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay. After doing some research Anders finds that this small island is slowly shrinking, He decides to make a podcast because PEOPLE ARE INTERESTED IN CLIMATE CHANGE and Frick Island is a perfect example!!!
It’s not long before he meets Piper, the town beauty with a tragic past. She is married to Tom, or is she?? Anders is pretty much immediately smitten with Piper, he makes frequent trips to and from the mainland and he is working very hard on his podcast.
So we have two lovely young people, a town of kind people and a mystery. The mystery for anyone new to town is this, is Piper married or not??? If she is, is her husband alive??? Everyone addresses him when they are walking together. Surely the entire island couldn’t all be involved in this ruse??
What will kind people do for the ones they love so that they might be shielded from further hurt??? The answer is WHATEVER IT TAKES and in this case it takes a lot!! An entire town pretending that Piper’s husband is right there with her? Talking to him? They all know that his boat was found after a storm, although his body was never recovered. There is a hint that it might not have been an accident??
What started out as a simple assignment consumes Anders and he can’t think of anything besides Piper and what he may have just done to this island when they all hear his now very popular podcast. He is in love with her. Anders is so confused and concerned, at first his podcast only drew a few hundred people, when he started to write about Piper the numbers kept going up!! First 600 then 700,000 viewers! Should he be showing the world her pain???
No need to know any more of the plot, you will love it, you will tell other people to read it and it will make you feel happy and hopeful. This is a treasure of a book and I hope you enjoy it. Thanks to my good friend Jayme for her great review and introducing me to Ms.Oakley’s wonderful writing.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
November 23, 2021
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island Colleen Oakley (Author), Sara Sheckells (Narrator)
Frick Island is a tiny, remote town in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay and although it used have a lot more residents, now less than 100 people live there and the number is going down as the mostly elderly population dies off. Twenty two year old Piper Parrish lives there with her twenty four year old husband, Tom, until Tom dies when his boat is swamped out in the bay. Piper's grief kept her locked up in her little carriage house until she came out again, acting like Tom was still alive. Not knowing what to do, the towns folks consulted their only medical expert, the dentist, and went with the plan of letting this "invisible husband" thing play out naturally.
New journalist, Anders Caldwell, has his idol. The person he wants to be most like isn't Superman but Clark Kent. He wants his reporting to make a difference but instead he is covering things like cake walks. In fact, Frick Island's annual cake walk is what brings Anders to the island, where he sees first hand, Piper and the town pretending that dead Tom is still alive.
Anders has a podcast that isn't doing very well but he sees his chance to grab an audience with the story of Frick Island, Piper, her dead husband, and the town pretending the husband is alive. It's not easy to get information because the entire town is cagey and protective of Piper and it's secrets but Anders weasels his way into the town's daily life by being helpful. The town is happy to take Anders up on being the town slave/handyman and eventually Anders wins Piper over as a friend. But Anders is playing with fire and he's going to hurt himself, Piper, and the town, if he's not careful.
The story is funny, mysterious, and sad and the audio narration is very good. Is dead really dead? Is Piper mentally ill, is the entire town mentally ill?
Published May 25, 2021 by Penguin Audio
Frick Island is a tiny, remote town in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay and although it used have a lot more residents, now less than 100 people live there and the number is going down as the mostly elderly population dies off. Twenty two year old Piper Parrish lives there with her twenty four year old husband, Tom, until Tom dies when his boat is swamped out in the bay. Piper's grief kept her locked up in her little carriage house until she came out again, acting like Tom was still alive. Not knowing what to do, the towns folks consulted their only medical expert, the dentist, and went with the plan of letting this "invisible husband" thing play out naturally.
New journalist, Anders Caldwell, has his idol. The person he wants to be most like isn't Superman but Clark Kent. He wants his reporting to make a difference but instead he is covering things like cake walks. In fact, Frick Island's annual cake walk is what brings Anders to the island, where he sees first hand, Piper and the town pretending that dead Tom is still alive.
Anders has a podcast that isn't doing very well but he sees his chance to grab an audience with the story of Frick Island, Piper, her dead husband, and the town pretending the husband is alive. It's not easy to get information because the entire town is cagey and protective of Piper and it's secrets but Anders weasels his way into the town's daily life by being helpful. The town is happy to take Anders up on being the town slave/handyman and eventually Anders wins Piper over as a friend. But Anders is playing with fire and he's going to hurt himself, Piper, and the town, if he's not careful.
The story is funny, mysterious, and sad and the audio narration is very good. Is dead really dead? Is Piper mentally ill, is the entire town mentally ill?
Published May 25, 2021 by Penguin Audio
March 21, 2021
Well if you are looking for a heartwarming read that will wrap itself around your heart… look no further. You have found it right here with this gem of a read.
Piper Parrish grew up in a quaint community off Chesapeake Bay known as Frick island. No internet, no alcohol. A place where everyone knows each other.
Piper has lost her husband, to a boating accident, at a very young age. He was her life. All she knew. She is trying to put one foot in front of the other but is failing. Until one morning she wakes to see her husband Tom in bed with her. Piper is beyond the moon that Tom is home. Only no one else can see Tom except Piper. But the town loves their own and supports Piper in her beliefs that Tom is right there at her side.
Anders Caldwell is an up-and-coming reporter. He is assigned to cover the cake walk on Frick Island. When he meets Piper he is instantly smitten. But is struggling to understand her belief that Tom is alive and even more strange… that the town is going along with it!
Everybody grieves in their own way.
I loved every character in this book!
Piper was so endearing. You could see why her fellow islanders loved her so much that they went along with her beliefs.
Anders was so quirky. A lost boy who could take whatever the locals dished out to him.
There is laughter as well as tears. It’s a book that covers all the feels and leaves you with a smile on your face when you reach the end.
A buddy read with Susanne that we both enjoyed.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to Stephanie Felty, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley.
Piper Parrish grew up in a quaint community off Chesapeake Bay known as Frick island. No internet, no alcohol. A place where everyone knows each other.
Piper has lost her husband, to a boating accident, at a very young age. He was her life. All she knew. She is trying to put one foot in front of the other but is failing. Until one morning she wakes to see her husband Tom in bed with her. Piper is beyond the moon that Tom is home. Only no one else can see Tom except Piper. But the town loves their own and supports Piper in her beliefs that Tom is right there at her side.
Anders Caldwell is an up-and-coming reporter. He is assigned to cover the cake walk on Frick Island. When he meets Piper he is instantly smitten. But is struggling to understand her belief that Tom is alive and even more strange… that the town is going along with it!
Everybody grieves in their own way.
I loved every character in this book!
Piper was so endearing. You could see why her fellow islanders loved her so much that they went along with her beliefs.
Anders was so quirky. A lost boy who could take whatever the locals dished out to him.
There is laughter as well as tears. It’s a book that covers all the feels and leaves you with a smile on your face when you reach the end.
A buddy read with Susanne that we both enjoyed.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to Stephanie Felty, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley.
June 25, 2021
From my 2021 FAVORITES SHELF-and now AVAILABLE!
Remember being a child, and snuggling under the covers ready for a bedtime story?
Well, if you are looking for a book to recapture that kind of magic, this one could be for you!
Once upon a time, in a tiny town, on a remote Island in the Chesapeake Bay, lived a young woman named Piper Parrish. She married her childhood sweetheart, and they truly seemed to share that RARE, once in a lifetime kind of LOVE, until his crab boat capsized, his body never recovered.
Piper REFUSED to accept that he was gone and she carried on, as if he was still alive, and right there beside her. And, the 90 or so eccentric folks who lived on Frick Island with her, went along with the charade.
Greeting both Piper and Tom, as the couple made their way to and from the docks, or enjoyed their Friday Night dinners at the only restaurant in town, The One Eyed Crab.
But, this fairy tale is about to be exposed when a young ambitious journalist and “Wanna Be” Podcaster , Anders Caldwell, is sent to the Island to cover the Annual Cake Walk fundraiser, and instead realizes that there is a bigger story to be told.
As his Podcast “WHAT THE FRICK?” grows in popularity and gains Followers, he starts to question WHY he is really returning to the Island, week after week, and WHAT is really most important in life.
For once, I was hoping that by “ THE END” I would get a fairytale ending! 🤞🏻
This story is WHIMSICAL, CHARMING and quite SURPRISING!
It made me SMILE, and it brought HAPPY tears to my eyes on more than one occasion! 🤧
I enjoyed escaping to Frick Island and will miss my visits there, and it’s quirky townspeople!
The book is actually quite HOPEFUL and that is something we can all use right about now!
Perhaps one day, I can visit Smith Island, the Island in the Chesapeake, which inspired this story, and indulge in a slice of their famous 🍰 Smith Island cake!
Colleen Oakley pens “unconventional love stories” and I have enjoyed each of them!
None has earned less than 4 solid stars ⭐️ from me!
I 100% KNOW that this WILL BE on my 2021 FAVORITES list at the end of the year!
A big thank you to Berkley for allowing me to read an ARC through Edelweiss! I was so excited to be approved it moved straight to the top of my 📚!
It was my pleasure to provide a candid review!
Published to Edelweiss and Goodreads on February 21, 2021
Will publish to Amazon on Publication date and the blog,
www.theblondelikesbooks.Wordpress.Com
Remember being a child, and snuggling under the covers ready for a bedtime story?
Well, if you are looking for a book to recapture that kind of magic, this one could be for you!
Once upon a time, in a tiny town, on a remote Island in the Chesapeake Bay, lived a young woman named Piper Parrish. She married her childhood sweetheart, and they truly seemed to share that RARE, once in a lifetime kind of LOVE, until his crab boat capsized, his body never recovered.
Piper REFUSED to accept that he was gone and she carried on, as if he was still alive, and right there beside her. And, the 90 or so eccentric folks who lived on Frick Island with her, went along with the charade.
Greeting both Piper and Tom, as the couple made their way to and from the docks, or enjoyed their Friday Night dinners at the only restaurant in town, The One Eyed Crab.
But, this fairy tale is about to be exposed when a young ambitious journalist and “Wanna Be” Podcaster , Anders Caldwell, is sent to the Island to cover the Annual Cake Walk fundraiser, and instead realizes that there is a bigger story to be told.
As his Podcast “WHAT THE FRICK?” grows in popularity and gains Followers, he starts to question WHY he is really returning to the Island, week after week, and WHAT is really most important in life.
For once, I was hoping that by “ THE END” I would get a fairytale ending! 🤞🏻
This story is WHIMSICAL, CHARMING and quite SURPRISING!
It made me SMILE, and it brought HAPPY tears to my eyes on more than one occasion! 🤧
I enjoyed escaping to Frick Island and will miss my visits there, and it’s quirky townspeople!
The book is actually quite HOPEFUL and that is something we can all use right about now!
Perhaps one day, I can visit Smith Island, the Island in the Chesapeake, which inspired this story, and indulge in a slice of their famous 🍰 Smith Island cake!
Colleen Oakley pens “unconventional love stories” and I have enjoyed each of them!
None has earned less than 4 solid stars ⭐️ from me!
I 100% KNOW that this WILL BE on my 2021 FAVORITES list at the end of the year!
A big thank you to Berkley for allowing me to read an ARC through Edelweiss! I was so excited to be approved it moved straight to the top of my 📚!
It was my pleasure to provide a candid review!
Published to Edelweiss and Goodreads on February 21, 2021
Will publish to Amazon on Publication date and the blog,
www.theblondelikesbooks.Wordpress.Com
May 26, 2021
Book club people, take note! This is a good one.
Coleen Oakley’s latest novel will light up your senses and transport you from your reading nook to a fictional tiny patch of land off the Chesapeake Bay (inspired by the real Smith Island). Though it has less than 100 residents, “Frick Island” is chock-full of vibrant, heart-warming characters prone to gossip but also loyalty and love.
A young widow, Piper “Pipes” Parrish, lost her husband to a crab boating accident, but she goes about life as if he’s right there beside her. Rather than treating her like a weirdo, the island residents go along with it and act as if they still see him too.
Now this isn’t a story about ghosts. And surprisingly, it’s not a story about grief. It’s about supporting one another, silver linings, and second chances. Enter Anders Caldwell, a journalist and aspiring podcaster, who thinks the quirky characters of Frick and their participation in Piper’s delusions will intrigue millions of listeners as much as they have him. As he unravels the story week-to-week, he becomes more and more attached.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is a very sweet book with just the right mix of intrigue and romance. It could easily be made into an all-family movie, and I, for one, welcome these types of reads from time to time. Escapist, cozy fiction at its best.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing for providing a gifted copy for me to review. The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is now available.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
IG: @confettibookshelf
Coleen Oakley’s latest novel will light up your senses and transport you from your reading nook to a fictional tiny patch of land off the Chesapeake Bay (inspired by the real Smith Island). Though it has less than 100 residents, “Frick Island” is chock-full of vibrant, heart-warming characters prone to gossip but also loyalty and love.
A young widow, Piper “Pipes” Parrish, lost her husband to a crab boating accident, but she goes about life as if he’s right there beside her. Rather than treating her like a weirdo, the island residents go along with it and act as if they still see him too.
Now this isn’t a story about ghosts. And surprisingly, it’s not a story about grief. It’s about supporting one another, silver linings, and second chances. Enter Anders Caldwell, a journalist and aspiring podcaster, who thinks the quirky characters of Frick and their participation in Piper’s delusions will intrigue millions of listeners as much as they have him. As he unravels the story week-to-week, he becomes more and more attached.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is a very sweet book with just the right mix of intrigue and romance. It could easily be made into an all-family movie, and I, for one, welcome these types of reads from time to time. Escapist, cozy fiction at its best.
My thanks to Berkley Publishing for providing a gifted copy for me to review. The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is now available.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
IG: @confettibookshelf
July 6, 2021
What the Frick?! I absolutely loved this book! Ask yourself..would you live on a little island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay? Sure? Okay but...the population is 93..and there are no cars because...the island is 1.2 miles long..the island physician is .. a dentist! Well the residents of Frick Island would have it no other way! 🙂
So when Anders Cladwell decides to make a podcast about the island, well that doesn't go over too well...since he is an outsider. Especially when Anders decides he wants to dig up the secrets of Frick Island...like the reason why everyone pretends that Piper's husband Tom is alive and well..when he isn't...Or is he? 🤷♀️
I loved this book so much! The quaint island had a certain charm! I admired the dedication that the people of the island had in regards to caring for each other- it was so refreshing! ❤️
Entertaining, fun, sweet and a bit emotional..this book had it all! I highly recommend checking out the author's Instagram account. She shares some wonderful pictures of the actual island that the book is based on. 🏝The photos are wonderful and made the story feel even more realistic!
So when Anders Cladwell decides to make a podcast about the island, well that doesn't go over too well...since he is an outsider. Especially when Anders decides he wants to dig up the secrets of Frick Island...like the reason why everyone pretends that Piper's husband Tom is alive and well..when he isn't...Or is he? 🤷♀️
I loved this book so much! The quaint island had a certain charm! I admired the dedication that the people of the island had in regards to caring for each other- it was so refreshing! ❤️
Entertaining, fun, sweet and a bit emotional..this book had it all! I highly recommend checking out the author's Instagram account. She shares some wonderful pictures of the actual island that the book is based on. 🏝The photos are wonderful and made the story feel even more realistic!
December 21, 2020
Bittersweet story with a good message!
Anders is a reporter but he wants to become a famous podcaster like the one who made Serial. He goes to Frick Island on an assignment. It’s the yearly Cake Walk. After doing his interviews, he stops by the One-Eyed-Crab to get a bite to eat when a beautiful young woman enters the place. After arming himself with courage, he walks toward her and asks her if he can sit with her. The woman's name is Piper and she tells him absolutely not. She is married.
After leaving the island, Anders gets an email from someone who tells him that he missed the Island's big story. He returns to the island and he learns that Piper's husband, Tom is dead but that Piper believes he's still with her. The whole island is happy to continue her delusion and they continue to talk or say hi to "Tom".
Anders spidey senses go crazy, he knows he has hit the jackpot of a story. He hopes that doing a podcast about Piper is going to make him get more listeners and finally his podcast can take off.
But what happens when your subject starts captivating your heart?
And what will happen when Piper finds out the truth about what Anders is really doing?
Just as Anders, my notions and objections about Frick Island started melting away. The island and its occupants were quite entertaining. A tight group of people who knew everything about each other. I like how Anders started gaining the favor of the island inhabitants. He started doing things for others and they went from tolerating him to actually looking forward to seeing him.
It was so sad to see Pipers' denial. It has to be devastating to lose your partner, your first and only love so young. I felt sad and my heart broke for her and her loss. I wasn't sure how much her denial was going to affect her psyche.
Also, I learned to love Anders. I loved his quirkiness. In general, he was a nice guy and his shortcomings made him more real to me. His character development was well done.
I liked many of the messages the author gives us: To learn about other people before scratching them from your life. To be more tolerable. To be more helpful. Understand that people grieve in different ways. To open up to others. After all, "no man is an island".
4/5 fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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Anders is a reporter but he wants to become a famous podcaster like the one who made Serial. He goes to Frick Island on an assignment. It’s the yearly Cake Walk. After doing his interviews, he stops by the One-Eyed-Crab to get a bite to eat when a beautiful young woman enters the place. After arming himself with courage, he walks toward her and asks her if he can sit with her. The woman's name is Piper and she tells him absolutely not. She is married.
After leaving the island, Anders gets an email from someone who tells him that he missed the Island's big story. He returns to the island and he learns that Piper's husband, Tom is dead but that Piper believes he's still with her. The whole island is happy to continue her delusion and they continue to talk or say hi to "Tom".
Anders spidey senses go crazy, he knows he has hit the jackpot of a story. He hopes that doing a podcast about Piper is going to make him get more listeners and finally his podcast can take off.
But what happens when your subject starts captivating your heart?
And what will happen when Piper finds out the truth about what Anders is really doing?
Just as Anders, my notions and objections about Frick Island started melting away. The island and its occupants were quite entertaining. A tight group of people who knew everything about each other. I like how Anders started gaining the favor of the island inhabitants. He started doing things for others and they went from tolerating him to actually looking forward to seeing him.
It was so sad to see Pipers' denial. It has to be devastating to lose your partner, your first and only love so young. I felt sad and my heart broke for her and her loss. I wasn't sure how much her denial was going to affect her psyche.
Also, I learned to love Anders. I loved his quirkiness. In general, he was a nice guy and his shortcomings made him more real to me. His character development was well done.
I liked many of the messages the author gives us: To learn about other people before scratching them from your life. To be more tolerable. To be more helpful. Understand that people grieve in different ways. To open up to others. After all, "no man is an island".
4/5 fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
January 29, 2022
"The Invisible Husband of Frick Island" by Colleen Oakley is a fun and engaging read!
Piper and her hubby, Tom Parrish live a perfect life on Frick Island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay. That is until Tom's crab boat capsizes and his body isn't recovered.
Piper is devastated but then, suddenly, begins to carry on as if Tom is still alive. She cooks for him, carries on a conversation with him, and walks him to his boat every day as he heads out for his workday on the bay.
Anders Caldwell, an ambitious journalist, visits Frick Island on an assignment for the local newspaper. What he witnesses on the island is the entire town's effort in pretending Tom Parrish is still alive, well, and living with Piper!
Could this be the story of a lifetime for Anders? The podcast of his dreams? He might be on to something here. He plans to continue visiting Frick Island, getting to know more about Piper, talking to the town folks, and getting to the bottom of what's happening!
This is a fun and engaging story with quirky characters, an invisible husband, and an entire island of residents who care enough about each other to ensure one of their own remains happy!
With themes that encompass mental health, environmental awareness, community involvement, social interaction, that's all wrapped up in a sweet and unique story about saving an island worthy of saving and about the passion of the residents who want to save it.
The audiobook was expertly narrated by Sara Sheckells whose seamless gender voicing was amazing. It was a treat to listen to her performance!
As this story begins to wind down and all the pieces come together, I was sad to see it end. I wanted to stay on this island, spend more time with these sweet and eccentric residents. I do believe Frick Island is one of the quirkiest characters in this story!
Yep, this is one of those stories you'll want to read more than once! 4.25 stars!
Piper and her hubby, Tom Parrish live a perfect life on Frick Island in the middle of Chesapeake Bay. That is until Tom's crab boat capsizes and his body isn't recovered.
Piper is devastated but then, suddenly, begins to carry on as if Tom is still alive. She cooks for him, carries on a conversation with him, and walks him to his boat every day as he heads out for his workday on the bay.
Anders Caldwell, an ambitious journalist, visits Frick Island on an assignment for the local newspaper. What he witnesses on the island is the entire town's effort in pretending Tom Parrish is still alive, well, and living with Piper!
Could this be the story of a lifetime for Anders? The podcast of his dreams? He might be on to something here. He plans to continue visiting Frick Island, getting to know more about Piper, talking to the town folks, and getting to the bottom of what's happening!
This is a fun and engaging story with quirky characters, an invisible husband, and an entire island of residents who care enough about each other to ensure one of their own remains happy!
With themes that encompass mental health, environmental awareness, community involvement, social interaction, that's all wrapped up in a sweet and unique story about saving an island worthy of saving and about the passion of the residents who want to save it.
The audiobook was expertly narrated by Sara Sheckells whose seamless gender voicing was amazing. It was a treat to listen to her performance!
As this story begins to wind down and all the pieces come together, I was sad to see it end. I wanted to stay on this island, spend more time with these sweet and eccentric residents. I do believe Frick Island is one of the quirkiest characters in this story!
Yep, this is one of those stories you'll want to read more than once! 4.25 stars!
October 12, 2021
3 stars. Charming and unique!
This book is outside my usual reading genres so it was a nice change of pace palate cleanser. I enjoyed trying something new and easy.
I liked the small town/island atmosphere and enjoyed meeting the quirky cast of unforgettable characters.
The first 100 pages intrigued me and kept me curious as to how everything would fit together. As nice as it was to change up my reading pattern, the rest of the novel dragged on and the storyline became too cutesy and predictable for my liking.
Overall, I’m glad I read it to see what all the buzz was about but it didn’t end up being my cup of tea. Thank you to my lovely local library for the loan!
This book is outside my usual reading genres so it was a nice change of pace palate cleanser. I enjoyed trying something new and easy.
I liked the small town/island atmosphere and enjoyed meeting the quirky cast of unforgettable characters.
The first 100 pages intrigued me and kept me curious as to how everything would fit together. As nice as it was to change up my reading pattern, the rest of the novel dragged on and the storyline became too cutesy and predictable for my liking.
Overall, I’m glad I read it to see what all the buzz was about but it didn’t end up being my cup of tea. Thank you to my lovely local library for the loan!
March 22, 2021
Review also published on blog: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Sweet, Enchanting, and utterly Mesmerizing.
Oh, how I loved “The Invisible Husband of Frick Island!” What a sweet, captivating novel about extremely lovable unforgettable characters you can’t help but root for.
So unprepared was I, for how the characters of Piper Parrish and Anders Caldwell would steal my heart!
Piper Parrish lives on Frick Island, a tiny little island off of Chesapeake Bay. Frick Island is extraordinary, a charming, whimsical place where all of the townsfolks know and are invested in each other. There is no cell reception and almost no internet except for extremely slow dial-up in one of the town’s local shops. Technology is something these folks are not addicted to and the idea of it is absolutely refreshing.
Piper is happily married to her High School sweetheart Tom, a Waterman who loves the water, adores to read, and loves his wife desperately. Sadly, one day after going out on the water, Tom goes missing - his boat is found but he is not. Piper is devastated and almost can’t go on, until one day, something strange happens. She suddenly starts living her life as if Tom were by her side, talking to him, going out for walks with him, and going out to eat with him. Soon, everyone in the village is going along with it, yet no one discusses it.
Anders Caldwell is a reporter at a small-town paper in Maryland, sent to Frick Island to cover a story. While there, he becomes fascinated by the town and its inhabitants. In his spare time, Anders runs a Podcast and soon realizes that there is a story there. A new podcast emerges entitled “What the Frick?” which leads Anders to spend every weekend on the Island, becoming a local.
Adorably sweet and simply charming, “The Invisible Husband of Frick Island” is character-driven fiction that made me smile and yes, made tears fall as well. I adored the character of Anders, whose kindness, generosity and understanding swept me away.
4.25
This was a charming buddy read with Kaceey.
A huge thank you Stephanie Felty at Berkley Publishing Group (via NetGalley) for the arc. #blogblitz #blogger #bookreviewer
Published on Goodreads, Twitter, and Instagram.
Sweet, Enchanting, and utterly Mesmerizing.
Oh, how I loved “The Invisible Husband of Frick Island!” What a sweet, captivating novel about extremely lovable unforgettable characters you can’t help but root for.
So unprepared was I, for how the characters of Piper Parrish and Anders Caldwell would steal my heart!
Piper Parrish lives on Frick Island, a tiny little island off of Chesapeake Bay. Frick Island is extraordinary, a charming, whimsical place where all of the townsfolks know and are invested in each other. There is no cell reception and almost no internet except for extremely slow dial-up in one of the town’s local shops. Technology is something these folks are not addicted to and the idea of it is absolutely refreshing.
Piper is happily married to her High School sweetheart Tom, a Waterman who loves the water, adores to read, and loves his wife desperately. Sadly, one day after going out on the water, Tom goes missing - his boat is found but he is not. Piper is devastated and almost can’t go on, until one day, something strange happens. She suddenly starts living her life as if Tom were by her side, talking to him, going out for walks with him, and going out to eat with him. Soon, everyone in the village is going along with it, yet no one discusses it.
Anders Caldwell is a reporter at a small-town paper in Maryland, sent to Frick Island to cover a story. While there, he becomes fascinated by the town and its inhabitants. In his spare time, Anders runs a Podcast and soon realizes that there is a story there. A new podcast emerges entitled “What the Frick?” which leads Anders to spend every weekend on the Island, becoming a local.
Adorably sweet and simply charming, “The Invisible Husband of Frick Island” is character-driven fiction that made me smile and yes, made tears fall as well. I adored the character of Anders, whose kindness, generosity and understanding swept me away.
4.25
This was a charming buddy read with Kaceey.
A huge thank you Stephanie Felty at Berkley Publishing Group (via NetGalley) for the arc. #blogblitz #blogger #bookreviewer
Published on Goodreads, Twitter, and Instagram.
May 11, 2021
4.5 stars
Ahhh, what a wonderful book! Filled with hope, love, friendship and--dare I say?--insanity.
This novel filled me with such wonderful feelings and a few tears. It's everything we always hope humanity will be.
It's the story of Piper, a resident of tiny Frick Island (population 93), whose husband Tom's boat capsizes and his body is not found, but he's presumed dead. Until one day she wakes up and there he is lying in bed next to her! No one else can see him, but they all pretend they do because they love Piper and want to protect her. Anders is a journalist with a fledgling podcast who comes to Frick Island to cover a puff piece, and finds so much more--a puzzle, a mystery, and a growing adoration for a group of quirky people.
This book is a love story. A love story about a couple separated too soon, but also the love story of a group of people who love their island home and the others who live there. It's a novel brimming with emotion, and readers will not be able to stop rooting for the success of everyone involved.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Ahhh, what a wonderful book! Filled with hope, love, friendship and--dare I say?--insanity.
This novel filled me with such wonderful feelings and a few tears. It's everything we always hope humanity will be.
It's the story of Piper, a resident of tiny Frick Island (population 93), whose husband Tom's boat capsizes and his body is not found, but he's presumed dead. Until one day she wakes up and there he is lying in bed next to her! No one else can see him, but they all pretend they do because they love Piper and want to protect her. Anders is a journalist with a fledgling podcast who comes to Frick Island to cover a puff piece, and finds so much more--a puzzle, a mystery, and a growing adoration for a group of quirky people.
This book is a love story. A love story about a couple separated too soon, but also the love story of a group of people who love their island home and the others who live there. It's a novel brimming with emotion, and readers will not be able to stop rooting for the success of everyone involved.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
August 14, 2021
3.5⭐
A light and heartwarming romance. The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is a bit mysterious with a charming plot, lovely characters, and who doesn't love a tiny crabbing Frick Island. 🦀🌊
I was curious about Tom (the invisible husband). His boat was found after a storm, without a sign of Tom. Weeks later, just like that, Tom returns. Is it only Piper's, his grieving wife, imagination? If so, why does the town of ninety-four go along with Piper's illusion?
Anders is a rookie journalist visiting the island and wants a big story. He's curious about the mystery of this invisible Tom. He has a podcast, WHAT THE FRICK 🤣 which gained popularity as the story progresses.
The pace was off for me. Often times when I complain about the pace, it's the middle part that felt bogged down. But I love the pleasant storytelling style by the author. The mystery of the Islanders with Tom also grabbed my attention.
A light and heartwarming romance. The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is a bit mysterious with a charming plot, lovely characters, and who doesn't love a tiny crabbing Frick Island. 🦀🌊
I was curious about Tom (the invisible husband). His boat was found after a storm, without a sign of Tom. Weeks later, just like that, Tom returns. Is it only Piper's, his grieving wife, imagination? If so, why does the town of ninety-four go along with Piper's illusion?
Anders is a rookie journalist visiting the island and wants a big story. He's curious about the mystery of this invisible Tom. He has a podcast, WHAT THE FRICK 🤣 which gained popularity as the story progresses.
The pace was off for me. Often times when I complain about the pace, it's the middle part that felt bogged down. But I love the pleasant storytelling style by the author. The mystery of the Islanders with Tom also grabbed my attention.
August 21, 2021
Part romance and part mystery, this is a fictional story that will stay with me for a long time. The characters are loyal and quirky. The setting is quaint and charming.
This is heartwarming story about love, faith, and hope.
The main characters are Piper and Anders, but what I found unique about this story is that everyone else plays a unique role as well. Their lives and situations serve to guide the message of the story. Through flashback chapters interspersed throughout the book, we even learn about Tom (Piper's husband) and their relationship.
This story truly surprised me. The more I read, the more I loved it. It’s such a touching and uplifting story. I highly recommend it! Be sure to read the Author's Note too, in which she explains the background of this story.
The main characters are Piper and Anders, but what I found unique about this story is that everyone else plays a unique role as well. Their lives and situations serve to guide the message of the story. Through flashback chapters interspersed throughout the book, we even learn about Tom (Piper's husband) and their relationship.
This story truly surprised me. The more I read, the more I loved it. It’s such a touching and uplifting story. I highly recommend it! Be sure to read the Author's Note too, in which she explains the background of this story.
June 25, 2021
This is listed as a romance, but I think it would be better described as contemporary fiction with romantic elements (a lot more words, but more accurate). A chapter or two in, and I was just hooked!
Piper Parrish lives on an island in the Chesapeake Bay that has a population of fewer than 100 people, but she likes her life. Except for the morning when her husband’s boat doesn’t come back. However, Piper continues talking to her dead husband. The townspeople, not sure what to do, decide they’ll play around with the charade.
Anders Caldwell had high hopes for both his career as a journalist and as a podcaster. He’d once done a podcast that had thousands of listeners, but nowadays, his subscriber list is as small as the podunk newspaper where he landed a job writing fluffy pieces between advertising. When he gets assigned to do a story on tiny Frick Island to write about their annual Cake Walk, he’s hard pressed to get enough information for even the paltry six inches of space he needs to fill. Then he learns not just of Piper believing she can still see her husband, but the entire town going along with the deception.
When he starts podcasting about this mystery—how does a young woman still talk with a husband who isn’t there and why are the townsfolk enabling her?—his audience begins to grow. He’s an outsider that the dwellers of the island are reluctant to confide in, but he comes back, weekend after weekend, to talk to Piper, telling her and the community that he’s writing about the impact of climate change on tiny islands like Frick.
I personally like living in bigger cities with outstanding Wi-Fi access at all times, but the community Oakley describes, even though dilapidated and with one singular restaurant option, sounds enviable. She vividly describes all the characters so they come alive. This is gripping and fun.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel.
Piper Parrish lives on an island in the Chesapeake Bay that has a population of fewer than 100 people, but she likes her life. Except for the morning when her husband’s boat doesn’t come back. However, Piper continues talking to her dead husband. The townspeople, not sure what to do, decide they’ll play around with the charade.
Anders Caldwell had high hopes for both his career as a journalist and as a podcaster. He’d once done a podcast that had thousands of listeners, but nowadays, his subscriber list is as small as the podunk newspaper where he landed a job writing fluffy pieces between advertising. When he gets assigned to do a story on tiny Frick Island to write about their annual Cake Walk, he’s hard pressed to get enough information for even the paltry six inches of space he needs to fill. Then he learns not just of Piper believing she can still see her husband, but the entire town going along with the deception.
When he starts podcasting about this mystery—how does a young woman still talk with a husband who isn’t there and why are the townsfolk enabling her?—his audience begins to grow. He’s an outsider that the dwellers of the island are reluctant to confide in, but he comes back, weekend after weekend, to talk to Piper, telling her and the community that he’s writing about the impact of climate change on tiny islands like Frick.
I personally like living in bigger cities with outstanding Wi-Fi access at all times, but the community Oakley describes, even though dilapidated and with one singular restaurant option, sounds enviable. She vividly describes all the characters so they come alive. This is gripping and fun.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel.
May 25, 2021
I read a lot of romance books, but very few receive all 5 Stars. This was the sweetest little book. It deserves a bump for release day.
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I don’t know about all of you, but when the All State insurance commercial popped up on my television around year 487 of quarantine I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately . . . .
Just putting that little tidbit out there right away because when the leading male was preparing to board the ferry to take him to Frick Island and was told . . . .
Hope you’ve got your DeLorean – because you’re about to go back in time.
I was sorta maybe already in love with this book.
So the story here is about small town journalist Anders who gets sent to Frick Island to cover the annual Cake Walk for the paper. The event ends up getting canceled thanks to a storm that pops up, but Anders thinks there may still be a story there for his personal podcast. It starts with the theory that the island may cease to exist altogether thanks to rising waters due to climate change, but morphs into something different when he meets Piper – and her husband Tom . . . .
Okay okay maybe it’s not a full on “George Glass” situation since Tom was a living, breathing human at one time, but when his fishing boat went down in a storm and his body was never recovered his wife Piper just kept on keeping on like he was still around. And the townsfolk? Well, they all decided . . . .
I loved this dang book. So much so that when my husband asked what I had been reading my response was pretty much . . . .
If you are looking for something so sugary you might end up with a cavity or twelve, put this on your TBR when it comes out in May. I’m going to go ahead and give it all the Stars.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
I don’t know about all of you, but when the All State insurance commercial popped up on my television around year 487 of quarantine I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately . . . .
Just putting that little tidbit out there right away because when the leading male was preparing to board the ferry to take him to Frick Island and was told . . . .
Hope you’ve got your DeLorean – because you’re about to go back in time.
I was sorta maybe already in love with this book.
So the story here is about small town journalist Anders who gets sent to Frick Island to cover the annual Cake Walk for the paper. The event ends up getting canceled thanks to a storm that pops up, but Anders thinks there may still be a story there for his personal podcast. It starts with the theory that the island may cease to exist altogether thanks to rising waters due to climate change, but morphs into something different when he meets Piper – and her husband Tom . . . .
Okay okay maybe it’s not a full on “George Glass” situation since Tom was a living, breathing human at one time, but when his fishing boat went down in a storm and his body was never recovered his wife Piper just kept on keeping on like he was still around. And the townsfolk? Well, they all decided . . . .
I loved this dang book. So much so that when my husband asked what I had been reading my response was pretty much . . . .
If you are looking for something so sugary you might end up with a cavity or twelve, put this on your TBR when it comes out in May. I’m going to go ahead and give it all the Stars.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
July 21, 2021
This is a delightful, heart-warming tale about a tiny island in Chesapeake Bay and a young woman who acts as if her husband Tom is still alive (despite his boat being found shipwrecked in a storm), a whole town who goes along with that and a young journalist.
Anders Caldwell is the journalist, working for a small local paper and sent to cover the annual cakewalk, thus starting an obsession with the little fishing town that is slowly disappearing as a result of climate change. Initially he is interested in making a podcast on the effect of climate change on the island, but his focus still changes as he becomes fascinated by Piper Parrish and her invisible husband.
Piper and Anders are both quirky, but endearing characters. Piper, well loved by the whole island, fascinated by insects but reluctant to venture out into the world. Anders has ambition but is awkward and a little unsure of himself and has trouble finding the right way to get to find out more about Piper. They are well supported by the tightly knit bunch of islanders who love and care for Piper and are suspicious of Anders intentions. It’s all makes for a charming story, full of humour, humanity and a little romance.
Anders Caldwell is the journalist, working for a small local paper and sent to cover the annual cakewalk, thus starting an obsession with the little fishing town that is slowly disappearing as a result of climate change. Initially he is interested in making a podcast on the effect of climate change on the island, but his focus still changes as he becomes fascinated by Piper Parrish and her invisible husband.
Piper and Anders are both quirky, but endearing characters. Piper, well loved by the whole island, fascinated by insects but reluctant to venture out into the world. Anders has ambition but is awkward and a little unsure of himself and has trouble finding the right way to get to find out more about Piper. They are well supported by the tightly knit bunch of islanders who love and care for Piper and are suspicious of Anders intentions. It’s all makes for a charming story, full of humour, humanity and a little romance.
July 5, 2021
I loved this book! I didn't want it to end. It's funny but I grabbed the audio, listened to a bit and said 'meh, I can see where this is going. Forget it.' But then I got in my car for a long drive, unprepared, and the only audio on my phone was this one. I gave it one more shot and I was completely hooked. I laughed out loud a few times during the read.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island tells the story of the people to who live on this tiny island, it's a dry island, one restaurant, one bed and breakfast, no internet, and many of the people make their living from the ocean. One person is Piper. Her husband Tom went out on his fishing boat and called in distress, but rescue only found his capsized boat. He's presumed dead. Piper can't believe it, and then.....she starts talking to him. And then all the people on the island begin talking to Tom, this Invisible Husband. Next is Anders, who is sent to the strange little island to do a story about a cake walk fundraiser for a small paper he works for. He's really striving to do more and when he gets stranded on the island, he sees Piper and it's all over for him. He's smitten. But then....she has this husband, who is invisible, yet everyone seems to acknowledge him. This is where he thinks the story is and he keeps coming back.
Oh I don't want to say anymore to spoil this one. I can't put my finger on why I liked this one so much. Perhaps you root for the characters on the island, or the geeky (I think) Anders, the pain you can feel for Piper, loosing her husband and still in her 20's. Or it's just a feel good story and who doesn't like a feel good story or need one especially now. The audio wasn't bad, it took some getting used to at first. But after a bit, I was so enthralled in the story and had to hear what happened next and how this all turned out. A favorite read for me for the year and so happy I was totally unprepared for my drive without another audio book. Else, I would have truly lost out on this gem.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island tells the story of the people to who live on this tiny island, it's a dry island, one restaurant, one bed and breakfast, no internet, and many of the people make their living from the ocean. One person is Piper. Her husband Tom went out on his fishing boat and called in distress, but rescue only found his capsized boat. He's presumed dead. Piper can't believe it, and then.....she starts talking to him. And then all the people on the island begin talking to Tom, this Invisible Husband. Next is Anders, who is sent to the strange little island to do a story about a cake walk fundraiser for a small paper he works for. He's really striving to do more and when he gets stranded on the island, he sees Piper and it's all over for him. He's smitten. But then....she has this husband, who is invisible, yet everyone seems to acknowledge him. This is where he thinks the story is and he keeps coming back.
Oh I don't want to say anymore to spoil this one. I can't put my finger on why I liked this one so much. Perhaps you root for the characters on the island, or the geeky (I think) Anders, the pain you can feel for Piper, loosing her husband and still in her 20's. Or it's just a feel good story and who doesn't like a feel good story or need one especially now. The audio wasn't bad, it took some getting used to at first. But after a bit, I was so enthralled in the story and had to hear what happened next and how this all turned out. A favorite read for me for the year and so happy I was totally unprepared for my drive without another audio book. Else, I would have truly lost out on this gem.
July 21, 2021
Something really special!
I love Colleen Oakley’s books more and more. The characters are such good, warm-hearted people.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island follows suit with lovable, quirky Piper as the main character. The setting is Frick Island, a tiny place in the Chesapeake Bay (I love the bay!). Piper’s husband has passed away while crabbing on the bay. Piper is still grieving his loss, in a unique way. For her, he is still right there and not just in a figurative way. She walks with him, cooks for him, and continues on with her life.
Anders is a journalist whose career is floundering. While on assignment on the island, he discovers Piper’s story, and his interest is piqued in using this story for his podcast. Of course there’s more to the story, but no spoilers.
This is such a happy, positive, loving, warm story. If you want to feel good, this is your book! And who doesn’t want to feel good? This is a love story like no other, and one I know will stay with me for a long time.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
I love Colleen Oakley’s books more and more. The characters are such good, warm-hearted people.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island follows suit with lovable, quirky Piper as the main character. The setting is Frick Island, a tiny place in the Chesapeake Bay (I love the bay!). Piper’s husband has passed away while crabbing on the bay. Piper is still grieving his loss, in a unique way. For her, he is still right there and not just in a figurative way. She walks with him, cooks for him, and continues on with her life.
Anders is a journalist whose career is floundering. While on assignment on the island, he discovers Piper’s story, and his interest is piqued in using this story for his podcast. Of course there’s more to the story, but no spoilers.
This is such a happy, positive, loving, warm story. If you want to feel good, this is your book! And who doesn’t want to feel good? This is a love story like no other, and one I know will stay with me for a long time.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
October 21, 2020
This book was such a joy to write, and it's my sincerest hope that it's a joy for you to read—because can't we all use a little more joy in our lives right now? Can't wait to hear what you think!
November 14, 2022
A sweet and ultimately hopeful story that includes a small town where everyone knows everyone, a touch of romance, and even a bit of mystery. I thought the ending was just a tad bit lame, but really enjoyed this one overall.
did-not-finish
August 6, 2021Tried to read this multiple times but it just will not hold my attention. DNF @ 41%.
CW: death of a loved one
CW: death of a loved one
April 8, 2021
Quirky & charming!
Frick Island was a charming setting and one that I think anybody from a small town will relate to. A place where everybody knows everybody’s business and where their loyalty toward each other and to their island runs deep. With characters that were very relatable and a plot that moved at an engaging pace, I think Frick Island will be a place many will enjoy spending time. 4 stars.
Frick Island was a charming setting and one that I think anybody from a small town will relate to. A place where everybody knows everybody’s business and where their loyalty toward each other and to their island runs deep. With characters that were very relatable and a plot that moved at an engaging pace, I think Frick Island will be a place many will enjoy spending time. 4 stars.
June 27, 2021
5 Island Stars
This one was the perfect read for me! I loved the setting, quaint (dry) Frick Island, with residents who stick by each other and are happy with their remote life. The characters in this one are endearing and memorable, from the ferry operator to the bed and breakfast owner.
Small town newspaper reporter Anders stumbles onto Frick Island covering the annual cake walk event. He discovers a few bigger stories though – including the impact of global warming – which no one wants to talk to him about – and a mysterious situation where the islanders pretend to see Tom, a fisherman who died recently. His widow, Piper, is convinced that he returned from his fishing day, and talks to him around town. Why does everyone go along with this?
Anders is bewitched by Piper and the island and soon he’s returning every weekend to get content for his podcast. As his podcast grows in popularity, I worried what would happen when everyone figured out what he was sharing. And what will happen when Piper finally acknowledges that her husband isn’t really alive?
This was a heartwarming tale that still gives me the feels a few days after I’ve finished it! I’ve read two Colleen Oakley books now and I really want to read the earlier ones!
Thanks to my local library for the copy and to my like-minded friend Jayme who loved this one too and put it on my radar.
This one was the perfect read for me! I loved the setting, quaint (dry) Frick Island, with residents who stick by each other and are happy with their remote life. The characters in this one are endearing and memorable, from the ferry operator to the bed and breakfast owner.
Small town newspaper reporter Anders stumbles onto Frick Island covering the annual cake walk event. He discovers a few bigger stories though – including the impact of global warming – which no one wants to talk to him about – and a mysterious situation where the islanders pretend to see Tom, a fisherman who died recently. His widow, Piper, is convinced that he returned from his fishing day, and talks to him around town. Why does everyone go along with this?
Anders is bewitched by Piper and the island and soon he’s returning every weekend to get content for his podcast. As his podcast grows in popularity, I worried what would happen when everyone figured out what he was sharing. And what will happen when Piper finally acknowledges that her husband isn’t really alive?
This was a heartwarming tale that still gives me the feels a few days after I’ve finished it! I’ve read two Colleen Oakley books now and I really want to read the earlier ones!
Thanks to my local library for the copy and to my like-minded friend Jayme who loved this one too and put it on my radar.
May 26, 2021
It's fresh, it's funny, it's heartwarming!!! Throw it in your beach bag and get your toes in the sand!
May 2, 2022
Piper Parrish’s husband Tom dies while out fishing on his crab boat during a storm. Piper is grief-stricken and doesn’t come out of her house for weeks. When she does emerge, she’s convinced Tom is alive and standing right next to her. The small town on Frick Island plays along. A reporter from the mainland comes to Frick Island to cover a different story and is soon captured by Piper’s situation. I really enjoyed the cozy small town feel of this book, the wonderful details that made the unusual setting on Frick Island (off the coast of Massachusetts) come to life, and the writing which made the characters feel so real.
February 7, 2022
This was a charming story that gave me all the feels! I loved the people who live on Frick Island, especially Piper Parrish whom has just lost her husband. The small community of unique people intrigued me so much that I miss them. The story touches on some serious subjects, such as climate change, mental illness and faith.
May 26, 2021
Okay Colleen Oakley, where have you been all my life?! The Invisible Husband of Frick Island is the first book I have read by Oakley, but I can tell you it made me immediately want to read every single one of her other novels ASAP. I binge-read this book in one afternoon because once I started I could not put it down. The premise is pretty simple and surrounds a woman named Piper who is walking around talking to her missing husband like he is right there. Enter a young, struggling journalist named Anders who comes to Frick Island to cover a cake walk piece for his newspaper, and finds a whole lot more than he bargained for. I loved the way the book switches between both Anders and Piper's viewpoints and they have very distinct voices and stories. Frick Island felt like a character in itself, and I loved the mysterious vibe the entire book had.
I loved the dash of romance in The Invisible Husband of Frick Island, and it is a very heartwarming and quick read. It took a while to find out the mystery of why the people of the island are pretending Piper's husband is there, and the whole way leading up to it was filled with laughter, some tears, and a whole lot of heart. The story completely consumed me, and I found myself wishing I could move to Frick Island just to be with all of these characters. I can't think of any that I didn't like, and Piper and Anders were the best. I loved Oakley's writing style and she has already become an autobuy author with just this book! I have an eGalley, but you can bet I will be buying a finished copy as soon as I can. Highly recommend The Invisible Husband of Frick Island to people that want to feel all the feels and wrap themselves up in these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved the dash of romance in The Invisible Husband of Frick Island, and it is a very heartwarming and quick read. It took a while to find out the mystery of why the people of the island are pretending Piper's husband is there, and the whole way leading up to it was filled with laughter, some tears, and a whole lot of heart. The story completely consumed me, and I found myself wishing I could move to Frick Island just to be with all of these characters. I can't think of any that I didn't like, and Piper and Anders were the best. I loved Oakley's writing style and she has already become an autobuy author with just this book! I have an eGalley, but you can bet I will be buying a finished copy as soon as I can. Highly recommend The Invisible Husband of Frick Island to people that want to feel all the feels and wrap themselves up in these characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 6, 2021
WHAT THE FRICK?I am just so happy that I read this totally delightful book! I just smiled and smiled while I was reading it and I don't know exactly why, except to say it was a delightful story about a delightful place where delightful people live. Frick Island is a tiny island, 12 miles from the mainland in the Chesapeake Bay that you can only get to by ferry. But it is a dying place because of changing times, occupations, and natural resources and the aging population who's young, what there are of them are leaving for other lives. Climate change is a central theme and a contributor to the changes in those resources and the danger the island faces as it might be sinking.
Anders is a small-town reporter from Maryland’s mainland who is sent to do the 'Frick Island Cake Walk' and gets stuck there when he misses the last ferry to the mainland. While eating dinner in the only diner (the One-Eyed Crab), he sees an attractive woman (Piper Parrish) sitting alone and talking to herself, so he asks her if she would like to join him. Piper is surprised, as she is sitting with her husband, Tom, who just recently died in a 'waterman' accident. WHAT THE FRICK?
Yap, the poor woman's husband is dead, what could be sadder than that? Well, unless you believe her and everyone on the island, who all act as if Tom is right there with his wife. Isn't that the sweetest thing you ever heard? But Anders goes back to the Mainland, but can't forget Piper, especially after he gets an email that informs him he missed the bigger story. So he returns to write the most interesting story he had missed the first time he was on the island as a podcast, he thinks it is climate change, but then the story blows up into a full-scale investigation into what is going on with Piper and the islanders who support her, an arson, a possible murder and just so much more.
The podcast starts slow and then blows up to over 700,000 followers, but none are on Frick Island because as of yet, they don’t have any internet service. What will happen when they hear it?
You will have to read the book to get the rest of the plot, but it was so worth it. I know some was a bit cheesy and was dependent on the pieces falling into the perfect place at just the right moment…. But what author doesn’t take liberties with life? I love character-driven novels and this one had some characters to follow. Sweet reading.
5 Stars
Happy Reading!
I am on a podcast kick!
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