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Dune Island #4
Lily's Secret Inheritance
Turning off the winding coastal road and seeing the old farmhouse surrounded by cranberry vines ahead, Lily’s breath catches in her throat. It’s just how she remembers it. But pushing open the wooden front door for the first time in decades, it’s clear everything has changed…
When her estranged aunt Dahlia dies, single mother Lily Lindgren is surprised to inherit the family home and cranberry farm. Returning to Dune Island for the first time since Dahlia admitted to a terrible betrayal that shattered Lily’s trust in her family, she’s ready to sell up and finally create a stable future for her little boy. But her high-school crush and farm manager Jake Benson is determined to stop Lily’s plan…
After helping Dahlia turn part of the house into a local produce store, Jake shared her dream of making the cranberry farm a community hub for the island. His stories about Dahlia, and how much she had missed Lily all these years, make Lily question if she was wrong to never forgive her aunt. And when Jake joins her long walks over the sand dunes, there’s an undeniable spark… could a move to Dune Island be the key to her and her son’s happiness?
But then, clearing out Dahlia’s bedroom, Lily finds an old picture of Dahlia that stops her in her tracks. Just when she was making peace with Dahlia’s memory and learning to trust again, Lily’s heart is shattered to find she was keeping another secret. Can Lily trust Jake to tell her the painful truth—or will she run from Dune Island again for good?
An utterly beautiful beach read about family secrets, finding yourself, and learning the true meaning of home. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal and Mary Alice Monroe.
When her estranged aunt Dahlia dies, single mother Lily Lindgren is surprised to inherit the family home and cranberry farm. Returning to Dune Island for the first time since Dahlia admitted to a terrible betrayal that shattered Lily’s trust in her family, she’s ready to sell up and finally create a stable future for her little boy. But her high-school crush and farm manager Jake Benson is determined to stop Lily’s plan…
After helping Dahlia turn part of the house into a local produce store, Jake shared her dream of making the cranberry farm a community hub for the island. His stories about Dahlia, and how much she had missed Lily all these years, make Lily question if she was wrong to never forgive her aunt. And when Jake joins her long walks over the sand dunes, there’s an undeniable spark… could a move to Dune Island be the key to her and her son’s happiness?
But then, clearing out Dahlia’s bedroom, Lily finds an old picture of Dahlia that stops her in her tracks. Just when she was making peace with Dahlia’s memory and learning to trust again, Lily’s heart is shattered to find she was keeping another secret. Can Lily trust Jake to tell her the painful truth—or will she run from Dune Island again for good?
An utterly beautiful beach read about family secrets, finding yourself, and learning the true meaning of home. Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal and Mary Alice Monroe.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2010
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February 28, 2023
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September 20, 2022
I inherited everything from Aunt Dahlia?
Why would she leave me everything when we haven't talked in years?
Lily's husband had recently died, and she was left struggling financially.
Inheriting the family's home and cranberry farm would seem to be something Lily would embrace, but she wants to sell it and use the money to pay off her debts even though others are not in agreement.
Lily was upset when she arrived because her family home was turned into a store by her high school heart throb.
Could he sway her to not sell?
Could she really move back to Dune Island?
Does she sell the home and business or move there?
We follow Lily as she considers her options and re-acquaints herself with the town and Jake.
A sweet read that goes back and forth from Lily's childhood until now.
Find out what happens in this sweet read.
This is my third book by Ms. Harper, and all have been lovely reads. 5/5
This book was given to me by Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest review.
Why would she leave me everything when we haven't talked in years?
Lily's husband had recently died, and she was left struggling financially.
Inheriting the family's home and cranberry farm would seem to be something Lily would embrace, but she wants to sell it and use the money to pay off her debts even though others are not in agreement.
Lily was upset when she arrived because her family home was turned into a store by her high school heart throb.
Could he sway her to not sell?
Could she really move back to Dune Island?
Does she sell the home and business or move there?
We follow Lily as she considers her options and re-acquaints herself with the town and Jake.
A sweet read that goes back and forth from Lily's childhood until now.
Find out what happens in this sweet read.
This is my third book by Ms. Harper, and all have been lovely reads. 5/5
This book was given to me by Bookouture via NetGalley for an honest review.
September 23, 2022
Another great read from Netgalley. This is another new author for me and I throughly enjoyed this one from start to finish. It was such a good story and very well written I’m definitely going to,look for more by this author in the future. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 28, 2022
I couldn’t wait for this armchair travel back to Dune Island, Massachusetts! As I flipped over the last page, I felt as though I’d been sitting on the Adirondack chairs on the deck with the characters, sipping an iced tea and catching up on their lives. Kristin Harper writes a deeply evocative and emotional read, making me appreciate my time with her authentic characters.
I loved the setting of a cranberry bog! Where I live, we have cranberry fields and are fortunate enough to get fresh cranberries in the fall. The whole process of harvesting them by flooding the fields amazes me.
Kristin Harper knows how to tap into readers’ emotions. She takes ordinary people and places and puts her spin on them and it’s binge-able fiction. Lily Lindgren faces real issues, has authentic reactions to them and works towards believable solutions. Yes, she doesn’t want to return to the family farm and she doesn’t want to run into old friends. You’ll see that soon enough, but keep reading, there’s a reason for it. My favourite character in this book is Ryan. He brings a different perspective that benefits the book.
Harper highlights the need for understanding, second chances and forgiveness in her heartfelt plot stuffed with secrets and focuses on a character who learns that going home again is certainly an option. Harper reminds us that the outcome is up to us; do we learn from the past and become better or do we dwell in the past and become bitter? You’ll have to read how Lily prepares for and reacts to heading home again.
I was gifted this advance copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I loved the setting of a cranberry bog! Where I live, we have cranberry fields and are fortunate enough to get fresh cranberries in the fall. The whole process of harvesting them by flooding the fields amazes me.
Kristin Harper knows how to tap into readers’ emotions. She takes ordinary people and places and puts her spin on them and it’s binge-able fiction. Lily Lindgren faces real issues, has authentic reactions to them and works towards believable solutions. Yes, she doesn’t want to return to the family farm and she doesn’t want to run into old friends. You’ll see that soon enough, but keep reading, there’s a reason for it. My favourite character in this book is Ryan. He brings a different perspective that benefits the book.
Harper highlights the need for understanding, second chances and forgiveness in her heartfelt plot stuffed with secrets and focuses on a character who learns that going home again is certainly an option. Harper reminds us that the outcome is up to us; do we learn from the past and become better or do we dwell in the past and become bitter? You’ll have to read how Lily prepares for and reacts to heading home again.
I was gifted this advance copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 16, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Lily's Secret Inheritance' by Kristin Harper.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kristin Harper, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication Date 15th September 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'Dune Island' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Summer At Hope Haven' which is the first book in this series and I would definitely recommend it.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that thus book is 'Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal and Mary Alice Monroe.' I am a huge fan of Carolyn so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a fan of Kristin and if this is as good as 'Summer At Hope Haven' it is sure to be a great read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 28 chapters and an epilogue set over 3 parts. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based on the fictional Hope Haven, Dune Island, Massachusetts, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Lily Lindgren/Perkins. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
This book is quite fast paced with absolutely stunning and vivid descriptions that really set the atmosphere. Speaking of the atmosphere I absolutely loved it and it was the perfect setting for this page turner. It is set in a cranberry farm that was part of Lily's aunts home. I must admit I have never tried cranberries before but this book has made me want to!! Who knew how many different things you can make with them but I must admit the choc-cran ice-cream sounded the nicest 😋. It is emotionally charged and filled with family, romance, lies, secrets, drama and of course plenty of cranberries!! It also included lots of information on the history of the Cranberry farm which I must say was absolutely intriguing to read. I love learning about history and although this was a fictional book I still found myself lost in the history of it all. This book really does show how one small thing can affect so many people and change so many lives. It is also about moving forward, learning how to look to the future instead of the past, forgiveness and second chances. It is beautifully written and one of those books you could read on a beach or in front of a fire. It is beautifully written with such realistic descriptions it made me feel like I was right next to Lily the whole time feeling the sand on my toes and the wind in my hair. I loved that we get to travel back into Lily's childhood and Kristin weaves these chapters in beautifully at the right times. The ending was absolutely beautiful and I am hoping to find out more about where Lily goes from the end. It genuinely felt like I had gone on holiday to Dune Island and I was devastated to come to the end and realise I had to unpack my suitcase! This book would make an absolutely gorgeous movie! I'm looking forward to reading the previous and future books in this beautiful series.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Although this is the fourth book in the series I have had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were well rounded, solid and realistic. The main characters in this book are Lily and Dahlia and as a mother myself I can relate to them both. They are such strong female characters which I love seeing in novels. I loved watching Lily's character development throughout the book. My heart went out to her at the beginning of the book but by the end it was absolutely breaking. However, there were times where I thought she was a bit overprotective and overbearing. It is hard to say too much without giving too much of the storyline away. I did want to say I wish Dahlia had....so frustrating! Oh well I'll try and say as much as I can about my character thoughts. I enjoyed reading the chapters from the past and discovering how Dahlia and Lily met and I thought it was lovely to see such a beautiful friendship and then relationship develop. It also made the 'now' chapters even more emotional as you go from seeing Lily surrounded by a beautiful family to her with just Ryan and Jake on the island. I absolutely adored Ryan who was a typical boy. My son is around the same age and I can feel is frustration about not being allowed to do certain things when I would have no problems with my son doing the same. My thoughts on Jake changed throughout the book from starting by thinking he was aloof and stand offish to thinking he was handsome, sweet and would make a fantastic father. Each of these characters worked perfectly together to make this book an absolutely beautiful read. I am looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon!
Congratulations Kristin on an absolutely stunning page turner!!
Overall a stunning page turner which takes you on holiday and floods you with emotions..
Genres covered include Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Romance Fiction and Women's Writers Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to fans of the above but also for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal, Mary Alice Monroe and Nicholas Sparks, being a huge fan of his I believe other fans may also enjoy this.
316 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle and £8.99 for paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LilysSecretInheritance #DuneIslandSeries #KristinHarper #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
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Review for 'Lily's Secret Inheritance' by Kristin Harper.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kristin Harper, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication Date 15th September 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'Dune Island' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Summer At Hope Haven' which is the first book in this series and I would definitely recommend it.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that thus book is 'Perfect for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal and Mary Alice Monroe.' I am a huge fan of Carolyn so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a fan of Kristin and if this is as good as 'Summer At Hope Haven' it is sure to be a great read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 28 chapters and an epilogue set over 3 parts. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based on the fictional Hope Haven, Dune Island, Massachusetts, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Lily Lindgren/Perkins. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
This book is quite fast paced with absolutely stunning and vivid descriptions that really set the atmosphere. Speaking of the atmosphere I absolutely loved it and it was the perfect setting for this page turner. It is set in a cranberry farm that was part of Lily's aunts home. I must admit I have never tried cranberries before but this book has made me want to!! Who knew how many different things you can make with them but I must admit the choc-cran ice-cream sounded the nicest 😋. It is emotionally charged and filled with family, romance, lies, secrets, drama and of course plenty of cranberries!! It also included lots of information on the history of the Cranberry farm which I must say was absolutely intriguing to read. I love learning about history and although this was a fictional book I still found myself lost in the history of it all. This book really does show how one small thing can affect so many people and change so many lives. It is also about moving forward, learning how to look to the future instead of the past, forgiveness and second chances. It is beautifully written and one of those books you could read on a beach or in front of a fire. It is beautifully written with such realistic descriptions it made me feel like I was right next to Lily the whole time feeling the sand on my toes and the wind in my hair. I loved that we get to travel back into Lily's childhood and Kristin weaves these chapters in beautifully at the right times. The ending was absolutely beautiful and I am hoping to find out more about where Lily goes from the end. It genuinely felt like I had gone on holiday to Dune Island and I was devastated to come to the end and realise I had to unpack my suitcase! This book would make an absolutely gorgeous movie! I'm looking forward to reading the previous and future books in this beautiful series.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Although this is the fourth book in the series I have had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were well rounded, solid and realistic. The main characters in this book are Lily and Dahlia and as a mother myself I can relate to them both. They are such strong female characters which I love seeing in novels. I loved watching Lily's character development throughout the book. My heart went out to her at the beginning of the book but by the end it was absolutely breaking. However, there were times where I thought she was a bit overprotective and overbearing. It is hard to say too much without giving too much of the storyline away. I did want to say I wish Dahlia had....so frustrating! Oh well I'll try and say as much as I can about my character thoughts. I enjoyed reading the chapters from the past and discovering how Dahlia and Lily met and I thought it was lovely to see such a beautiful friendship and then relationship develop. It also made the 'now' chapters even more emotional as you go from seeing Lily surrounded by a beautiful family to her with just Ryan and Jake on the island. I absolutely adored Ryan who was a typical boy. My son is around the same age and I can feel is frustration about not being allowed to do certain things when I would have no problems with my son doing the same. My thoughts on Jake changed throughout the book from starting by thinking he was aloof and stand offish to thinking he was handsome, sweet and would make a fantastic father. Each of these characters worked perfectly together to make this book an absolutely beautiful read. I am looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon!
Congratulations Kristin on an absolutely stunning page turner!!
Overall a stunning page turner which takes you on holiday and floods you with emotions..
Genres covered include Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Romance Fiction and Women's Writers Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to fans of the above but also for fans of Carolyn Brown, Barbara O’Neal, Mary Alice Monroe and Nicholas Sparks, being a huge fan of his I believe other fans may also enjoy this.
316 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle and £8.99 for paperback via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LilysSecretInheritance #DuneIslandSeries #KristinHarper #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@KristinHarper @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
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September 17, 2022
Lily grew up on Dune Island, raised by her grandparents when her parents died. They owned and operated Lindgren Cranberry farm, with her Uncle Martin and Aunt Dahlia. She left the island when she turned eighteen and never returned, until now. Lily married and had a son, Ryan, before her husband died of cancer and she is now struggling to pay the hospital bills and get out of debt. When she is informed that her Aunt Dahlia has died, she and her eight year old son are the last Lindgren's left. She has inherited the Cranberry farm and needs to meet with the lawyer before she get possession of the farm. Lily doesn't want to return to the place she called home for eighteen years, and she definitely doesn't want Ryan to see the place, so leaves him with her sister-in-law's family and heads to Dune Island, to sell the farm and move on with her life. When she meets with the lawyer, an old school friend, Steve, she finds out that her aunt and the manager, Jake, have made some changes to the farm and she needs to tour the farm and the financials before she can sell it. As she looks through some of the things Aunt Dahlia left for her, she begins to rethink her life.
I have read several books by Kristin Harper, and she has become a must read author for me. Lily's Secret Inheritance is a beautifully written story about coming home again, secrets, and family. Lily is a great character, who I really related to. She had to deal with situations that anyone could find themselves in and her problems were realistic. The story is told from Lily's POV, with a dual timeline, so we learn about Lily's past growing up on Dune Island. Her childhood seemed idyllic growing up working in the cranberry bog with a loving family, but every small community has gossips and kids can be mean to one another, so Lily had some memories that were far from pleasant. Jake had been working the cranberry bog since he was a teenager and the Lindgren farm was where he planned on spending the rest of his life. He was scared and angry that Lily was planning to sell it and all his hard work and ideas would be for naught, but as they got to know each other, there were some feelings beginning to stir. Due to circumstances beyond her control, she has to stay longer than she planned and Ryan eventually come to stay with her. He is a breath of fresh air and sees the farm in a totally different way. I loved his enthusiasm, meeting new friends, finding out about the running of a cranberry bog, the bees and the upcoming July 4th celebrations. He was such a great character and wonderful addition to the story. As Lily began to remember her past and go through the things her aunt left for her to find, she realized that maybe she jumped to some conclusions, maybe her aunt had reasons to keep her secrets, maybe Lily could return home again. This is a wonderful story about family, secrets, jumping to conclusions, and coming home. Maybe the path you think your life should take, isn't the one that fate has in store for you.
I have read several books by Kristin Harper, and she has become a must read author for me. Lily's Secret Inheritance is a beautifully written story about coming home again, secrets, and family. Lily is a great character, who I really related to. She had to deal with situations that anyone could find themselves in and her problems were realistic. The story is told from Lily's POV, with a dual timeline, so we learn about Lily's past growing up on Dune Island. Her childhood seemed idyllic growing up working in the cranberry bog with a loving family, but every small community has gossips and kids can be mean to one another, so Lily had some memories that were far from pleasant. Jake had been working the cranberry bog since he was a teenager and the Lindgren farm was where he planned on spending the rest of his life. He was scared and angry that Lily was planning to sell it and all his hard work and ideas would be for naught, but as they got to know each other, there were some feelings beginning to stir. Due to circumstances beyond her control, she has to stay longer than she planned and Ryan eventually come to stay with her. He is a breath of fresh air and sees the farm in a totally different way. I loved his enthusiasm, meeting new friends, finding out about the running of a cranberry bog, the bees and the upcoming July 4th celebrations. He was such a great character and wonderful addition to the story. As Lily began to remember her past and go through the things her aunt left for her to find, she realized that maybe she jumped to some conclusions, maybe her aunt had reasons to keep her secrets, maybe Lily could return home again. This is a wonderful story about family, secrets, jumping to conclusions, and coming home. Maybe the path you think your life should take, isn't the one that fate has in store for you.
November 11, 2022
As much as I wanted to give this book more stars (and I know I am very much in the minority here) I just could not. The bones of the story are there as well as the dynamics but something just does not go right with the telling. Lily returns to her family home feeling torn apart with memories all around here espcially after the death of her Aunt Dahlia. But Lily has also played a part in the memories being rather destructive namely with Dahlia who had her own secrets and it is this area I had a real problem getting through the story. You sense there is something more to Dahlia but it really is never resolved (in some small way it is but not really). And then there is the turning point for Lily when she feels betrayed by Dahlia and leaves the island not to be heard from in many a year. The ending seemed rushed and has so many questions left unanswered.
September 15, 2022
Love the eye catching book cover!
Another well written, enjoyable read by Kristin Harper.
Lily’s Secret Inheritance has family drama and the struggles one can go through trying to overcome all the secrets. So much information about the history of the families Cranberry Farm was quite interesting to read about. Throw in romance with just a bit of mystery to make for a well rounded story with all the feels.
The theme of this beautiful story is how to begin to move forward and letting the past go.
Many thanks to NetGalley, @bookouture and author, Kristin Harper, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
Another well written, enjoyable read by Kristin Harper.
Lily’s Secret Inheritance has family drama and the struggles one can go through trying to overcome all the secrets. So much information about the history of the families Cranberry Farm was quite interesting to read about. Throw in romance with just a bit of mystery to make for a well rounded story with all the feels.
The theme of this beautiful story is how to begin to move forward and letting the past go.
Many thanks to NetGalley, @bookouture and author, Kristin Harper, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
August 20, 2022
Such a fantastic novel! I devoured it and just now finished it! Wow!
This new to me author has captured my attention from page one until the end!
What a story! Made me want to cry and scream at the characters especially Lily because she reminds me of so much of myself acting like that as a teenager.
But later as she grew up started liking her much better.
Yes, there's always unsavory people in the world but that's life. It's only because they're jealous or they feel insecure.
These two women became my friends. I admired them very much.
Love, understanding, misunderstandings and yes if you want to admit peace and forgiveness. To me, that's the hardest thing of all.
Little Ryan stole my heart. It's through his eyes that I truly enjoyed and loved this amazing novel.
I'm a mother and it's why I could relate to Dahliah and Lily but moat of all Lily because of the past hurts and all.
This book is truly a gem in my opinion. I'm glad for the chance to read it because it made me take a good look at myself and my loved ones from the past.
But to really have peace you must first forgive others. After all, we are human.
This is a clean read from my perspective.
I loved this book and I didn't want it to end.
This is book 2 in a series. I read the one about Aunt Sylvie. It was good too.
Thanks for an awesome read.
5 stars for a well written book. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive. All opinions expressed are my own.
This new to me author has captured my attention from page one until the end!
What a story! Made me want to cry and scream at the characters especially Lily because she reminds me of so much of myself acting like that as a teenager.
But later as she grew up started liking her much better.
Yes, there's always unsavory people in the world but that's life. It's only because they're jealous or they feel insecure.
These two women became my friends. I admired them very much.
Love, understanding, misunderstandings and yes if you want to admit peace and forgiveness. To me, that's the hardest thing of all.
Little Ryan stole my heart. It's through his eyes that I truly enjoyed and loved this amazing novel.
I'm a mother and it's why I could relate to Dahliah and Lily but moat of all Lily because of the past hurts and all.
This book is truly a gem in my opinion. I'm glad for the chance to read it because it made me take a good look at myself and my loved ones from the past.
But to really have peace you must first forgive others. After all, we are human.
This is a clean read from my perspective.
I loved this book and I didn't want it to end.
This is book 2 in a series. I read the one about Aunt Sylvie. It was good too.
Thanks for an awesome read.
5 stars for a well written book. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 30, 2022
I really love Kristin Harpers books about the Cranberry farm. This book was about Lily and coming back home and trying to wrestle with the past and the future.
After her Aunt Dahlia dies, leaving Lily to inherit the farm, Lily must go to the family farm and confront all of her beliefs.
This book had a great beginning, mystery of what had happened right before Lily graduated high school.
The last quarter of the book was seriously lacking in substance. What I mean is that Lily needs to sell the farm to settle her own bills and then just magically finds a secret inheritance from her aunt. I wouldn't have minded this secret if it had been told throughout the book.
It felt like that the author just threw it out there to neatly tie up the book.
Further, the ending was so abrupt, I had to go back a few pages to just make sure that I didn't skip anything.
Overall, not the authors best book, however, still a good read.
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for this honest review.
After her Aunt Dahlia dies, leaving Lily to inherit the farm, Lily must go to the family farm and confront all of her beliefs.
This book had a great beginning, mystery of what had happened right before Lily graduated high school.
The last quarter of the book was seriously lacking in substance. What I mean is that Lily needs to sell the farm to settle her own bills and then just magically finds a secret inheritance from her aunt. I wouldn't have minded this secret if it had been told throughout the book.
It felt like that the author just threw it out there to neatly tie up the book.
Further, the ending was so abrupt, I had to go back a few pages to just make sure that I didn't skip anything.
Overall, not the authors best book, however, still a good read.
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Read
September 11, 2022Lily's Secret Inheritance by Kristin Harper was an endearing page turner. Set on a cranberry farm, it is the perfect escapism.
December 4, 2022
Good book, Lily has to sell farm that has been in her family for generations since her husband died of cancer and she need the money.
July 11, 2024
quick easy read for summer, pretty predicable - not as well written as her other books.
August 20, 2022
Lily Lindgren has been mainly raised by her grandparents on their cranberry farm, on Dune Island, along with her Uncle Martin and his wife Dahlia. Dahlia originally came to the island to be the caregiver for her grandmother in her final weeks.
Because of a disagreement with her Aunt Dahlia, and other circumstances that caused her to feel her entire world had fallen apart, immediately after high school graduation Lily left Dune Island, never to return for nearly 18 years when Aunt Dahlia died and left the entire cranberry farm to her.
Now in her mid-thirties, a widow and the single-mother of an 8 year old son, Lily finds her self back on the island and about to meet with Steve, the attorney who is handling the affairs of her aunt. Steve is also an old friend from high school. Her grandparents and Uncle Martin had been gone for many years, leaving Dahlia and Jake, the farm manager and a friend, a few years ahead of Lily in school, to keep the farm going and profitable. To that end, they had made number of improvements that drew in the tourists. There are secrets and situations that are brought to light that Lily believed to be true that kept her away from her hometown and family for many years.
This is a sweet, heartfelt story of family, second chances and a good reminder not to jump to conclusions without knowing all the facts. I felt some of the chapters were a bit long and circumstances, not really relevant to the story were drawn out a little too much. Lily was obsessed with not running into old friends while back in her home town, which got a little old. She as also a way too protective mother when it came to her son, although she did loosen up some on that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced review copy of this book. All comments and opinions
Because of a disagreement with her Aunt Dahlia, and other circumstances that caused her to feel her entire world had fallen apart, immediately after high school graduation Lily left Dune Island, never to return for nearly 18 years when Aunt Dahlia died and left the entire cranberry farm to her.
Now in her mid-thirties, a widow and the single-mother of an 8 year old son, Lily finds her self back on the island and about to meet with Steve, the attorney who is handling the affairs of her aunt. Steve is also an old friend from high school. Her grandparents and Uncle Martin had been gone for many years, leaving Dahlia and Jake, the farm manager and a friend, a few years ahead of Lily in school, to keep the farm going and profitable. To that end, they had made number of improvements that drew in the tourists. There are secrets and situations that are brought to light that Lily believed to be true that kept her away from her hometown and family for many years.
This is a sweet, heartfelt story of family, second chances and a good reminder not to jump to conclusions without knowing all the facts. I felt some of the chapters were a bit long and circumstances, not really relevant to the story were drawn out a little too much. Lily was obsessed with not running into old friends while back in her home town, which got a little old. She as also a way too protective mother when it came to her son, although she did loosen up some on that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced review copy of this book. All comments and opinions
September 4, 2022
I didn't realize this was a series of books, but this was easily read stand alone.
Lily's parents were killed when she was young, and she was raised by her grandparents and Uncle Martin on the cranberry farm. Dahlia (and her son) moved in to help when her grandma was sick and she married Martin. Lily was a budding photographer and with help from her mentor, won a contest that helped get her off the island when she ran away. This part of the story was a big lacking - Lily was so immature, granted she was a high schooler, but she made a lot of assumptions and left the island. She didn't go back until learning Aunt Dahlia had passed and Lily inherited the cranberry farm. She's widowed then and has a young son to consider. She's planning on selling the farm and leaving the island for good because of the rumors and "mean" people. It's a bit annoying and then the story wraps up quickly.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
Lily's parents were killed when she was young, and she was raised by her grandparents and Uncle Martin on the cranberry farm. Dahlia (and her son) moved in to help when her grandma was sick and she married Martin. Lily was a budding photographer and with help from her mentor, won a contest that helped get her off the island when she ran away. This part of the story was a big lacking - Lily was so immature, granted she was a high schooler, but she made a lot of assumptions and left the island. She didn't go back until learning Aunt Dahlia had passed and Lily inherited the cranberry farm. She's widowed then and has a young son to consider. She's planning on selling the farm and leaving the island for good because of the rumors and "mean" people. It's a bit annoying and then the story wraps up quickly.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
September 16, 2022
Lily hasn’t been back to Dune Island in decades but when her estranged Aunt Dahlia passes away, Lily has no other choice but to return. Lily is a single mother and was completely surprised to discover that she has inherited the family home and cranberry farm. Dahlia betrayed her family and so many years and so much unforgiveness festered throughout the family. Lily’s intent was to sell the family home and use the money for her young son’s future. But when Lily returns to the house she realizes the farm manager Jake Benson, and also her high-school crush so many years ago. Jake loves the farm and doesn’t want Lily to sell it, but can he convince Lily to keep it? Soon many buried family secrets come to light and Lily starts to wonder if she was wrong in harboring unforgiveness for so long.
I was ready to return to beautiful Dune Island so this story arrived at the perfect time. This book has all the feels and I was completely enthralled from the first page to the last. This rapidly moving story was very heartbreaking, inspirational and an absolute joy to read. Dune Island is a beautiful little town and one I would love to visit. This author does an absolutely amazing job of vividly describing the Island and I could almost hear the waves lapping on the shore and feeling the sand at my feet. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot twist and turns with the little mysteries woven throughout the story it kept me flying through the pages. This time slip novel is a story of second chances and reconciliation with family and friends and that always warms my heart. This is such a fabulous story and I highly recommend it.
Thank you Kristin Harper for such a wonderful installment to what has proven to be a beautiful series. I really enjoyed it and I absolutely recommend it.
I was ready to return to beautiful Dune Island so this story arrived at the perfect time. This book has all the feels and I was completely enthralled from the first page to the last. This rapidly moving story was very heartbreaking, inspirational and an absolute joy to read. Dune Island is a beautiful little town and one I would love to visit. This author does an absolutely amazing job of vividly describing the Island and I could almost hear the waves lapping on the shore and feeling the sand at my feet. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot twist and turns with the little mysteries woven throughout the story it kept me flying through the pages. This time slip novel is a story of second chances and reconciliation with family and friends and that always warms my heart. This is such a fabulous story and I highly recommend it.
Thank you Kristin Harper for such a wonderful installment to what has proven to be a beautiful series. I really enjoyed it and I absolutely recommend it.
January 29, 2025
Lily returns to her childhood home following the death of her aunt. They had been estranged for years so she is surprised to have been named as her aunt's sole heir to the family cranberry farm estate.
Lily's Secret Inheritance is a warm novel about family, love, loss and forgiveness. It is set in America. The majority of the book is set in the present day but some parts are set in the past to show Lily's history and the background to the estrangement from her aunt.
Lily has had her fair share of heartache. She is widowed and bringing up their 9 year old son on her own, struggling to make ends meet. Now she is forced to confront the past and her emotions bubble to the surface. The inheritance of the farm offers her a chance for financial freedom but her lawyer refuses to let her sell the place until she has considered her options.
Her aunt's manager Jake provides an added dimension to the plot. Lily feels a romantic tension with him but also a professional dynamic due to his work on the farm. Both characters are stilted around each other but soften around the children (her son and his nephew). I didn't really buy into their sudden relationship which pops up at the end.
I liked the awkwardness that Lily faces as she reconnects with faces from the past but I thought the small town gossip angle was overplayed. Her character felt really authentic with the OTT worries over her son (this reminded me of myself for always imagining the worst!) It felt cathartic as she challenges her perceptions of the past so she can move on from her grief.
Lily's Secret Inheritance is an emotional book about love and loss but also hope and positive change.
Lily's Secret Inheritance is a warm novel about family, love, loss and forgiveness. It is set in America. The majority of the book is set in the present day but some parts are set in the past to show Lily's history and the background to the estrangement from her aunt.
Lily has had her fair share of heartache. She is widowed and bringing up their 9 year old son on her own, struggling to make ends meet. Now she is forced to confront the past and her emotions bubble to the surface. The inheritance of the farm offers her a chance for financial freedom but her lawyer refuses to let her sell the place until she has considered her options.
Her aunt's manager Jake provides an added dimension to the plot. Lily feels a romantic tension with him but also a professional dynamic due to his work on the farm. Both characters are stilted around each other but soften around the children (her son and his nephew). I didn't really buy into their sudden relationship which pops up at the end.
I liked the awkwardness that Lily faces as she reconnects with faces from the past but I thought the small town gossip angle was overplayed. Her character felt really authentic with the OTT worries over her son (this reminded me of myself for always imagining the worst!) It felt cathartic as she challenges her perceptions of the past so she can move on from her grief.
Lily's Secret Inheritance is an emotional book about love and loss but also hope and positive change.
September 24, 2022
Lily’s Secret Inheritance by Kristin Harper is a heartfelt story. I thought the story was easy to read. I like the author’s writing style and the pacing was peppy. I found the characters to be realistic and relatable. I enjoyed Dune Island off the coast of Massachusetts and the Lindgren cranberry farm. The author really brought the scenes alive with her word imagery especially of the cranberries in bloom. The story is told with chapters in the present (now) and chapters in the past (then). We get to see what happened at the end of Lily’s senior year of high school that caused her to break from her family. I like that we get to see Lily face real life issues. Her reactions and emotions felt genuine. We follow Lily as she deals with the past and the related emotions. The question is can Lily learn from her past mistakes or will she let the past ruin her future. There is a man from Lily’s past there as well. Sparks fly between them. I loved the ending which left a smile on my face. Lily’s Secret Inheritance is a great book to read at the beach (or by the pool) or in front of a cozy fire. Lily’s Secret Inheritance is about family, secrets, trust, home, forgiveness, and second chances. While Lily’s Secret Inheritance is the fourth book in the Dune Island series, it can be read on its own (each book can). Lily’s Secret Inheritance is a touching tale about a family farm, a past dispute, a robust boy, a charming farm manager, preceding regrets, a surprising photo, and a decisive decision.
September 1, 2022
This book is all about family, life in a small town and how deception and lies can influence both.
When young widow Lily returns to Dune Island to settle her Aunt's estate, all she wants to do is get in and get out without encountering any of the people she grew up with, the same people whose bullying and gossip made her life very difficult after her parents' and grandmother's deaths. Rumors abounded after a small incident at her family farm, which led to confusion and more lies.
Now that Lily is back, and she brings her 8 year old son Ryan with her, she's worried that he will run into people who will expose him to the same lies and gossip. Instead, Lily finds that people have grown up and aren't concerned about what happened back then. Ryan loves Dune Island, and Lily discovers a trunk of items that her Aunt left for her. Some are very emotional, some are related to the secret inheritance the title mentions.
I liked this book, but I did have some issues with Lily's constant worry over things that happened in high school. She was so concerned about running into people that she chose to not go into the small city center shops. I understand that high school is a rough place, but all these years later some of that resentment and anger should have faded. All in all, it was a good read.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
September 23, 2023
Another book in the Dune Island series, actually read at the beach.
"When her estranged aunt Dahlia dies, single mother Lily Lindgren is surprised to inherit the family home and cranberry farm. Returning to Dune Island for the first time since Dahlia admitted to a terrible betrayal that shattered Lily’s trust in her family, she’s ready to sell up and finally create a stable future for her little boy. But her high-school crush and farm manager Jake Benson is determined to stop Lily’s plan…
After helping Dahlia turn part of the house into a local produce store, Jake shared her dream of making the cranberry farm a community hub for the island. His stories about Dahlia, and how much she had missed Lily all these years, make Lily question if she was wrong to never forgive her aunt. And when Jake joins her long walks over the sand dunes, there’s an undeniable spark… could a move to Dune Island be the key to her and her son’s happiness?
But then, clearing out Dahlia’s bedroom, Lily finds an old picture of Dahlia that stops her in her tracks. Just when she was making peace with Dahlia’s memory and learning to trust again, Lily’s heart is shattered to find she was keeping another secret. Can Lily trust Jake to tell her the painful truth—or will she run from Dune Island again for good?" synopsis copied
"When her estranged aunt Dahlia dies, single mother Lily Lindgren is surprised to inherit the family home and cranberry farm. Returning to Dune Island for the first time since Dahlia admitted to a terrible betrayal that shattered Lily’s trust in her family, she’s ready to sell up and finally create a stable future for her little boy. But her high-school crush and farm manager Jake Benson is determined to stop Lily’s plan…
After helping Dahlia turn part of the house into a local produce store, Jake shared her dream of making the cranberry farm a community hub for the island. His stories about Dahlia, and how much she had missed Lily all these years, make Lily question if she was wrong to never forgive her aunt. And when Jake joins her long walks over the sand dunes, there’s an undeniable spark… could a move to Dune Island be the key to her and her son’s happiness?
But then, clearing out Dahlia’s bedroom, Lily finds an old picture of Dahlia that stops her in her tracks. Just when she was making peace with Dahlia’s memory and learning to trust again, Lily’s heart is shattered to find she was keeping another secret. Can Lily trust Jake to tell her the painful truth—or will she run from Dune Island again for good?" synopsis copied
September 28, 2022
In an effort to deal with her grief and heartache, Lily has moved away from her family’s cranberry farm. Now, she returns, after decades, to sort out her inheritance, as she is the sole heir to the family estate. All her mixed emotions about coming back here come to the fore. The book moves back and forth between the present day and the past, when Lily was in high school.
Lily’s past a moving story of a young girl orphaned and living with her loving grandparents – Selma and Lars, and her unmarried uncle, Martin. When her grandmother, suffering from cancer, needs full time care, Dahlia is hired for the job. She bring with her troublesome son, Aiden.
Dahlia soon becomes a great support to the family, helping them deal with Selma’s passing and being a great encouragement to Lily in her pursuit of photography. When Martin and Dahlia marry, she becomes part of the family. Lily and she become quite close. It is a shock to Lily when she thinks that her aunt has betrayed her and the family. This causes her to leave Dune Island suddenly and for good.
Despite their estrangement, Dahlia and Lily, have kept in touch, but Lily does not realize the extent to which her aunt has made changes on the farm. When she returns, Dahlia’s assistant Jake, shows Lily the many changes made, to help her take a decision about the estate.
Given her history, and the kind of taunts and small town gossip that she has been subjected to in the past, Lily, now a widow, is very reluctant to return. She also does not want to expose her son to this place that she has never really told him about. Her financial situation makes it imperative for her to sell the estate.
Lily does not bargain for all the good memories that come flooding into her mind, along with the unpleasant ones. She also does not expect to feel such a draw towards Jake. As she sorts through her aunt’s belongings, she makes some surprising discoveries. Will they be enough to cause her to change her mind about selling the estate?
This is a heartfelt story about love, loss, family and community. It also shows how we can allow our sometimes wrong notions to guide our feelings and actions. But forgiveness and love always triumph. And we can change and grow and move forward with hope.
Lily’s past a moving story of a young girl orphaned and living with her loving grandparents – Selma and Lars, and her unmarried uncle, Martin. When her grandmother, suffering from cancer, needs full time care, Dahlia is hired for the job. She bring with her troublesome son, Aiden.
Dahlia soon becomes a great support to the family, helping them deal with Selma’s passing and being a great encouragement to Lily in her pursuit of photography. When Martin and Dahlia marry, she becomes part of the family. Lily and she become quite close. It is a shock to Lily when she thinks that her aunt has betrayed her and the family. This causes her to leave Dune Island suddenly and for good.
Despite their estrangement, Dahlia and Lily, have kept in touch, but Lily does not realize the extent to which her aunt has made changes on the farm. When she returns, Dahlia’s assistant Jake, shows Lily the many changes made, to help her take a decision about the estate.
Given her history, and the kind of taunts and small town gossip that she has been subjected to in the past, Lily, now a widow, is very reluctant to return. She also does not want to expose her son to this place that she has never really told him about. Her financial situation makes it imperative for her to sell the estate.
Lily does not bargain for all the good memories that come flooding into her mind, along with the unpleasant ones. She also does not expect to feel such a draw towards Jake. As she sorts through her aunt’s belongings, she makes some surprising discoveries. Will they be enough to cause her to change her mind about selling the estate?
This is a heartfelt story about love, loss, family and community. It also shows how we can allow our sometimes wrong notions to guide our feelings and actions. But forgiveness and love always triumph. And we can change and grow and move forward with hope.
September 23, 2022
“ An utterly beautiful beach read about family secrets, finding yourself, and learning the true meaning of home.” This quote from the book blurb sums the book up perfectly.
I have absolutely loved this story, was pretty much drawn in from the very first chapter. The setting of Dune Island sounded truly picturesque and idyllic, would loved to have been experiencing it myself for real. Adored getting to know all of the characters, learning each of the stories and seeing them all interact with each other.
The story was very well written I thought and the characters were wonderfully developed and so very real, they almost felt like real people at times, not just characters.
I spent a fair bit of the story trying to figure out what the terrible betrayal was caused by Dahlia that shattered Lily’s trust and made her leave Dune Island when she was only 17/18. Suffice to say all my guesses were wrong but I was glad of that as it meant I was surprised as to when the terrible betrayal was finally revealed.
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and she is fast becoming one of my favourite authors and so I will very much be looking forward to her next book when it comes out.
I have absolutely loved this story, was pretty much drawn in from the very first chapter. The setting of Dune Island sounded truly picturesque and idyllic, would loved to have been experiencing it myself for real. Adored getting to know all of the characters, learning each of the stories and seeing them all interact with each other.
The story was very well written I thought and the characters were wonderfully developed and so very real, they almost felt like real people at times, not just characters.
I spent a fair bit of the story trying to figure out what the terrible betrayal was caused by Dahlia that shattered Lily’s trust and made her leave Dune Island when she was only 17/18. Suffice to say all my guesses were wrong but I was glad of that as it meant I was surprised as to when the terrible betrayal was finally revealed.
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and she is fast becoming one of my favourite authors and so I will very much be looking forward to her next book when it comes out.
August 31, 2022
I enjoyed this book. I loved the setting of a cranberry farm with a gift shop and an education center. The story of Lily going back home is an example of not always getting facts or details right when we are growing up. Lily learns some things about the aunt she inherited the farm from that were completely different from what she thought and what caused her to leave the farm and her family far behind. There's also a lot of her discovering that the people in the town that bullied her or were mean to her may not be the same people they were back then. She has kept her son from even knowing about the farm or her family, but it was a bright moment when she finally took him there to discover all the good things about the area that she had forgotten.
There were the little mysteries throughout the book and Lily's dealing with her son that make it interesting...and maybe a little romance too. I really wish I could experience the setting for this book. It made me long to be there. Maybe someday... Until then, I think I'll go back and read another of the books!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
There were the little mysteries throughout the book and Lily's dealing with her son that make it interesting...and maybe a little romance too. I really wish I could experience the setting for this book. It made me long to be there. Maybe someday... Until then, I think I'll go back and read another of the books!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 6, 2022
Thanks to Bookouture I was provided an ARC of Lily’s Secret Inheritance
by Kristin Harper via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
**** Publishing September 15, 2022****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Lily has had immeasurable loss starting with losing her parents at young age due to a car accident to grandparents dying to her husband dying of cancer and leaving her as a single mom to her young son. More recently, her Aunt Dahlia, at the age of 57 died unexpectedly of an aneurysm. Lily was notified by the family attorney, Steve, that she needs to come for the reading of the will, so Lily heads to Dune Island. She finds out that she is inheriting the family’s cranberry farm. Lily is given 3 keys, one to her grandparents room, one for her aunt’s room and one is for a trunk. What will she discover? Will her plans of selling it be as easy as she thought? How will her life change with decisions she makes?
A wonderful and heartfelt story of loss, love and second beginnings. From the writing to the story, this book draws you in and keeps you turning the pages until the end! A wonderful book just to read or to read with your book club as this book will lead to many good discussions.
by Kristin Harper via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
**** Publishing September 15, 2022****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Lily has had immeasurable loss starting with losing her parents at young age due to a car accident to grandparents dying to her husband dying of cancer and leaving her as a single mom to her young son. More recently, her Aunt Dahlia, at the age of 57 died unexpectedly of an aneurysm. Lily was notified by the family attorney, Steve, that she needs to come for the reading of the will, so Lily heads to Dune Island. She finds out that she is inheriting the family’s cranberry farm. Lily is given 3 keys, one to her grandparents room, one for her aunt’s room and one is for a trunk. What will she discover? Will her plans of selling it be as easy as she thought? How will her life change with decisions she makes?
A wonderful and heartfelt story of loss, love and second beginnings. From the writing to the story, this book draws you in and keeps you turning the pages until the end! A wonderful book just to read or to read with your book club as this book will lead to many good discussions.
September 14, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Kristin Harper for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
4 stars
Lily's life has been filled with loss. She lost her parents at a young age, then her grandparents, her uncle, her husband, and her aunt Dahlia. After Dahlia passes, Lily travels back to Dune Island to meet with a lawyer to go over her inheritance. She finds out she was given the farm and she immediately decides to sell it. But since she was last there over 18 years ago, things have changed.
This was a good book. It was a quick read and I really enjoyed the past and present timeline. I felt for Lily at times. But other times I felt she was overbearing and worried about every little thing, especially when it came to Ryan, her son. She was especially worried about running into people from high school and I didn't like that. I also wish there were more scenes with Lily and Jake. But other than that, I enjoyed this one.
This was a heartfelt story of letting go, and second chances. The writing was fantastic and held my attention.
4 stars
Lily's life has been filled with loss. She lost her parents at a young age, then her grandparents, her uncle, her husband, and her aunt Dahlia. After Dahlia passes, Lily travels back to Dune Island to meet with a lawyer to go over her inheritance. She finds out she was given the farm and she immediately decides to sell it. But since she was last there over 18 years ago, things have changed.
This was a good book. It was a quick read and I really enjoyed the past and present timeline. I felt for Lily at times. But other times I felt she was overbearing and worried about every little thing, especially when it came to Ryan, her son. She was especially worried about running into people from high school and I didn't like that. I also wish there were more scenes with Lily and Jake. But other than that, I enjoyed this one.
This was a heartfelt story of letting go, and second chances. The writing was fantastic and held my attention.
September 30, 2022
A Mom will do things for their children.....
A Mom will do things for their children even when they know in their hearts it's not always in their best interest but I know personally that they will sacrifice other family members just to protect their own child even when all evidence shows that its wrong. I did not like the character of Dahlia's son - and you want to be critical of her showing him preference over her niece but as a Mom I'm pretty sure I'd have done exactly the same thing. Tough love sounds good in theory but rarely is it acted upon except as a last resort. I wasn't all that empathic to Lily's character either. She writes off her relationship with her Uncle but its more about her pride than it is about protecting his happiness. I had a hard time liking her character. The story was interesting though but I really didn't get into the story until about a third of the way into the book.
A Mom will do things for their children even when they know in their hearts it's not always in their best interest but I know personally that they will sacrifice other family members just to protect their own child even when all evidence shows that its wrong. I did not like the character of Dahlia's son - and you want to be critical of her showing him preference over her niece but as a Mom I'm pretty sure I'd have done exactly the same thing. Tough love sounds good in theory but rarely is it acted upon except as a last resort. I wasn't all that empathic to Lily's character either. She writes off her relationship with her Uncle but its more about her pride than it is about protecting his happiness. I had a hard time liking her character. The story was interesting though but I really didn't get into the story until about a third of the way into the book.
September 15, 2022
I absolutely love this author's books and have read every one of them. They are the kind of book you'll read for relaxation, automatic reads for me.
We visit a past and present time line. Family is important in this story. So charming, I loved the setting,characters and fast pace.
I enjoyed reading about the cranberry farm. A return home that she hasn't been to since she was a teen has our main character looking at things in a new light. Things that seemed secretive are explained and forgiveness is key. Second chances makes for a fully satisfying book you won't be able to put down until it's over . Emotional read that reminds you not to jump to conclusions and make assumptions. Warm and relatable book that I highly recommend.
Pub Date 15 Sep 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
ll opinions expressed are my own.
We visit a past and present time line. Family is important in this story. So charming, I loved the setting,characters and fast pace.
I enjoyed reading about the cranberry farm. A return home that she hasn't been to since she was a teen has our main character looking at things in a new light. Things that seemed secretive are explained and forgiveness is key. Second chances makes for a fully satisfying book you won't be able to put down until it's over . Emotional read that reminds you not to jump to conclusions and make assumptions. Warm and relatable book that I highly recommend.
Pub Date 15 Sep 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
ll opinions expressed are my own.
February 7, 2025
After murder and war, I really needed a palette cleanser for lack of a better term. I have been reading the books in the Dune Island series every now ad then. They are all stand alone with only the common factor being the Island.
Lily has come back to the family home and farm after being away for a long time. After the passing of her last relative, she is now the owner of the place and the business. She never wanted to come back and now intends to sell it all as soon as possible.
Being back home, connecting with old friends, acquaintances and going through all the stuff left behind for her brings back a lot of memories. Some good and some not so much. It also reminds her of why she left. Unexpectedly she finds information that makes her question some of the memories as well.
These discoveries, chance encounters, a spark of attraction and her son falling in love with the farm, all maker her wonder if she is choosing the right path.
The build up is good but the whole end part happens very abruptly. I wish the pace of the first part was faster or the latter slower. But none the less, it was a pleasure reading it.
Lily has come back to the family home and farm after being away for a long time. After the passing of her last relative, she is now the owner of the place and the business. She never wanted to come back and now intends to sell it all as soon as possible.
Being back home, connecting with old friends, acquaintances and going through all the stuff left behind for her brings back a lot of memories. Some good and some not so much. It also reminds her of why she left. Unexpectedly she finds information that makes her question some of the memories as well.
These discoveries, chance encounters, a spark of attraction and her son falling in love with the farm, all maker her wonder if she is choosing the right path.
The build up is good but the whole end part happens very abruptly. I wish the pace of the first part was faster or the latter slower. But none the less, it was a pleasure reading it.
August 26, 2022
Lily has to return home to her childhood home after her Aunt Dahlia dies. She left home after high school, and hadn't been back. A recent widow, she plans to spend as little time in the very small town dealing with the cranberry farm and estate, and getting back to her son as soon as she can.
As she spends more time in the small town, the things she loved and hated become apparent to her again. As much as she might want to keep the cranberry farm, she has bills and really can't. Although reconnecting with the man who worked on the cranberry farm when she was a teenager is a nice plus!
As old misunderstandings are corrected, and understood, Lily comes to terms with her past, and is able to begin moving forward with her life.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
As she spends more time in the small town, the things she loved and hated become apparent to her again. As much as she might want to keep the cranberry farm, she has bills and really can't. Although reconnecting with the man who worked on the cranberry farm when she was a teenager is a nice plus!
As old misunderstandings are corrected, and understood, Lily comes to terms with her past, and is able to begin moving forward with her life.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
September 14, 2022
Anytime I escape into a Harper novel, it’s like a cool lotion over a frazzled surface. I easily lose myself in the world of the characters she creates.
Dune Island, off the coast of Massachusetts, hasn’t seen Lily since she left in a huff and despair eighteen years earlier. She returns to claim her inheritance, but finds so much more. She also discovers many things she thought and felt all those years before were completely wrong.
I loved the descriptions of the island and the cranberry bogs. I think Lily learned to loosen up and quit holding on is tight, especially with her son Ryan.
While she can’t undo the last, she can out it to rest and make a better future.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
Dune Island, off the coast of Massachusetts, hasn’t seen Lily since she left in a huff and despair eighteen years earlier. She returns to claim her inheritance, but finds so much more. She also discovers many things she thought and felt all those years before were completely wrong.
I loved the descriptions of the island and the cranberry bogs. I think Lily learned to loosen up and quit holding on is tight, especially with her son Ryan.
While she can’t undo the last, she can out it to rest and make a better future.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
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