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The Last Message
A message meant for another. A love meant only for her.
'The Last Message is the perfect romantic page-turner. This powerful and emotional story of grief, healing, self-discovery and love will tug at even the hardest of heartstrings. I was captivated and rooting for Lizzie and Nick right up to the very last page' Holly Miller
If you love Holly Miller's The Sight of You, Rebecca Serle's In Five Years and Nicholas Sparks, you won't want to miss this breathtaking love story that will grip your heart in every way.
What readers are saying about The Last Message:
'This book completely wrecked me! It was so good and it captivated me. It was perfect! I was absolutely entranced with this . . . 5 star read!'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'Stunning, beautiful, heartwrenching, heartwarming, uplifting and joyful. This book is everything. Don't miss reading this one. Put it on the top of all your lists'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'Gosh this was a story and a half . . . Loved it. A perfect curl-up-on-the-sofa book'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'This was such a devastatingly beautiful story! I fell in love with the characters Lizzie and Nick . . . Truly deep and powerful. The story is thought-provoking and sweet!'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
........................................
This year I am sending my last message to you.
I don't know if I'll ever be able to forgive myself,
and I will never forget you,
but I have to find a way to let you go.
When Lizzie is woken in the night by a text message clearly not meant for her, she is intrigued and haunted by the words she sees. After losing her beloved twin brother, she knows something of grief and the struggle to rebuild a life.
Nick, a widower for three years, is haunted by the disappearance and presumed death of his wife, but when he meets Lizzie, he finally finds a kindred spirit.
When these two lonely hearts are drawn together, an unexpectedly deep and powerful emotional connection is formed. Perhaps finally this is the chance for both of them to live again - if they can overcome scars of the past which have a longer reach than either could have imagined.
More fabulous praise from readers of The Last Message:
'WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! . . . clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!! ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ reader review
'I loved this breathtakingly well written love story. This is a beautiful slow burn romance, filled with grief, healing, secrets, and mystery.
'The Last Message is the perfect romantic page-turner. This powerful and emotional story of grief, healing, self-discovery and love will tug at even the hardest of heartstrings. I was captivated and rooting for Lizzie and Nick right up to the very last page' Holly Miller
If you love Holly Miller's The Sight of You, Rebecca Serle's In Five Years and Nicholas Sparks, you won't want to miss this breathtaking love story that will grip your heart in every way.
What readers are saying about The Last Message:
'This book completely wrecked me! It was so good and it captivated me. It was perfect! I was absolutely entranced with this . . . 5 star read!'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'Stunning, beautiful, heartwrenching, heartwarming, uplifting and joyful. This book is everything. Don't miss reading this one. Put it on the top of all your lists'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'Gosh this was a story and a half . . . Loved it. A perfect curl-up-on-the-sofa book'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
'This was such a devastatingly beautiful story! I fell in love with the characters Lizzie and Nick . . . Truly deep and powerful. The story is thought-provoking and sweet!'
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ NetGalley review
........................................
This year I am sending my last message to you.
I don't know if I'll ever be able to forgive myself,
and I will never forget you,
but I have to find a way to let you go.
When Lizzie is woken in the night by a text message clearly not meant for her, she is intrigued and haunted by the words she sees. After losing her beloved twin brother, she knows something of grief and the struggle to rebuild a life.
Nick, a widower for three years, is haunted by the disappearance and presumed death of his wife, but when he meets Lizzie, he finally finds a kindred spirit.
When these two lonely hearts are drawn together, an unexpectedly deep and powerful emotional connection is formed. Perhaps finally this is the chance for both of them to live again - if they can overcome scars of the past which have a longer reach than either could have imagined.
More fabulous praise from readers of The Last Message:
'WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! . . . clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!! ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ reader review
'I loved this breathtakingly well written love story. This is a beautiful slow burn romance, filled with grief, healing, secrets, and mystery.
- GenresRomance
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2023
11 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 8, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Headline Books.
I never seem to manage to read many romance books, and so u jumped at the chance to review this one. The Last Message is a tender and sweet, cosy love story with some mystery mixed in.
Lizzie is fulfilling her twin brothers dying wish that she travel, see the world, and make a career doing what she loves in the process. When Lizzy arrives at her latest location, Savage Cove, she accidentally drops her phone into the depths of the ocean and has to buy a cheap, ancient one for emergencies until her new phone arrives. That night, Lizzie received an emotional message from an unknown number that she then can't stop thinking about. The next day, as she strolls along the beach, Lizzie meets a playful dog and his master Nick and is instantly drawn to him as he is to her. When Lizzie begins to question who the missing woman is in a photograph at the local cafe, she falls in love with and her mysterious death, things become complicated and fractured. But can she decide what she wants and make a decision before it's too late.
This was such a sweet story with a wonderful fun and likeable cast of characters, and I just loved Houdini, the dog! I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I never seem to manage to read many romance books, and so u jumped at the chance to review this one. The Last Message is a tender and sweet, cosy love story with some mystery mixed in.
Lizzie is fulfilling her twin brothers dying wish that she travel, see the world, and make a career doing what she loves in the process. When Lizzy arrives at her latest location, Savage Cove, she accidentally drops her phone into the depths of the ocean and has to buy a cheap, ancient one for emergencies until her new phone arrives. That night, Lizzie received an emotional message from an unknown number that she then can't stop thinking about. The next day, as she strolls along the beach, Lizzie meets a playful dog and his master Nick and is instantly drawn to him as he is to her. When Lizzie begins to question who the missing woman is in a photograph at the local cafe, she falls in love with and her mysterious death, things become complicated and fractured. But can she decide what she wants and make a decision before it's too late.
This was such a sweet story with a wonderful fun and likeable cast of characters, and I just loved Houdini, the dog! I will definitely be reading more from this author.
January 11, 2023
I received a free copy of, The Last Message, by Catherine Hope, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Lizzie gets a message meant for someone else, when she responds to Nick, an unexpected friendship occurs. I thought this was a nice read, a little slow in parts, but overall a very nice read.
April 17, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.In The Last Message, Catherine Hope delivered to her readers a compelling story designed to capture the heart and leaves one believing in destiny, soul mates and the healing power of love. It’s a story of two people’s journey on the road to healing, self-discovery and love.
The Last Message introduces readers to Lizzie and Nick. At the beginning of the story, Lizzie is taking a trip to Savage Cove, a secluded beach town. This trip is one out of many she plans to take in her attempt to fulfill a promise made to her twin brother on his deathbed. A promise which would see her fulfilling the dream she gave upon to take care of him.
On arriving in Savage Cove, she lost her phone. This led to her receiving a temporary outdated phone while waiting for the replacement she ordered. The same day she received the outdated phone, she receives a text message. Now, based on the contents of the message, she knew it was not meant for her. The journalist within her was intrigued, and she sets out to learn about the person for whom the message was intended.
During one of her many treks on the beach, she meets Nick, with whom she shares an instant connection. Nick and Lizzie like each other, but he is mourning the loss of his wife and Lizzie’s stay in Savage Cove is temporary. This made a relationship between them a challenge. However, while spending time with each other made them recognise they wanted more.... But can their love for each other overcome the grief and guilt of the past?
The story hidden between the pages of The Last Message was poignant, heartwarming and filled with inspiration. When an author has you falling head over heels for the characters, you know you have a winner. Nick and Lizzie are characters readers will have no problem falling for. They have endured so much one cannot help but root for them to find the happiness they so deserved.
The romance that developed was sweet, slow burn, closed door romance. It was a joy seeing how Nick and Lizzie’s relationship developed. It faced many challenges, but love triumphed in the end. Along with the romance, the author included an element of mystery. Although I had a fair idea of what to expect from this aspect of the story, it was still interesting to see how it all unfolded.
Now, as much as I enjoyed the story, it was not without its faults. There were a lot of details, some of which felt unnecessary, and which caused the story to drag in some parts. Also, I wanted more closure as it relates to the mystery element. The perpetrators got off too easily for all the heartache and pain they left in their wake.
Overall, The Last Message delivered a beautiful story of hope, self-discovery, healing, and love. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
The Last Message introduces readers to Lizzie and Nick. At the beginning of the story, Lizzie is taking a trip to Savage Cove, a secluded beach town. This trip is one out of many she plans to take in her attempt to fulfill a promise made to her twin brother on his deathbed. A promise which would see her fulfilling the dream she gave upon to take care of him.
On arriving in Savage Cove, she lost her phone. This led to her receiving a temporary outdated phone while waiting for the replacement she ordered. The same day she received the outdated phone, she receives a text message. Now, based on the contents of the message, she knew it was not meant for her. The journalist within her was intrigued, and she sets out to learn about the person for whom the message was intended.
During one of her many treks on the beach, she meets Nick, with whom she shares an instant connection. Nick and Lizzie like each other, but he is mourning the loss of his wife and Lizzie’s stay in Savage Cove is temporary. This made a relationship between them a challenge. However, while spending time with each other made them recognise they wanted more.... But can their love for each other overcome the grief and guilt of the past?
The story hidden between the pages of The Last Message was poignant, heartwarming and filled with inspiration. When an author has you falling head over heels for the characters, you know you have a winner. Nick and Lizzie are characters readers will have no problem falling for. They have endured so much one cannot help but root for them to find the happiness they so deserved.
The romance that developed was sweet, slow burn, closed door romance. It was a joy seeing how Nick and Lizzie’s relationship developed. It faced many challenges, but love triumphed in the end. Along with the romance, the author included an element of mystery. Although I had a fair idea of what to expect from this aspect of the story, it was still interesting to see how it all unfolded.
Now, as much as I enjoyed the story, it was not without its faults. There were a lot of details, some of which felt unnecessary, and which caused the story to drag in some parts. Also, I wanted more closure as it relates to the mystery element. The perpetrators got off too easily for all the heartache and pain they left in their wake.
Overall, The Last Message delivered a beautiful story of hope, self-discovery, healing, and love. This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
April 16, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Last Message' by Catherine Hope.
Read and reviewed via Headline Publishers for Catherine Hope NetGalley and Headline Eternal Publishers.
Publication date 11th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Headline Eternal. I have yet to read a book published by Headline 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 50 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the fictional Savage Cove, Washington, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Lizzie and Nick. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Last Message' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Catherine discusses/includes cancer and loss.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is a stunning story of loss, love, grief and moving on with life. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, caring, moving on, and so much more. Catherine's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Lizzie and Nick the whole time. While you are reading you can feel the sand on your feet, smell the sea air and taste the delicious treats from Sol. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Nick and Lizzie and going through their pain, love, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying the book to read it every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face several times and both happy and sad!! Lizzie is heartbroken after losing her brother Rob to cancer and is determined to keep her promise to him to live her life and travel the world. Nick is heartbroken after losing his wife 3 years ago and still hasn't got over the way it happened. Lizzie loses her phone on the ferry over to Savage Cove and receives a text message from an unknown number that changes her life. Nick is walking his mischievous dog, the aptly named, Houdini when he bumps into Lizzie. They end up bumping into each other more and end up meeting on the beach on several occasions. As their feelings towards each other grow and develop they both hide secrets that could tear everything apart. This book is a stunning story filled with emotions about love, self-discovery, hope, healing and grief that sweeps you onto the stunning Savage Cove where secrets are held, hope is given and lives are changed. Catherine made Savage Cove come alive and portrayed the Cove perfectly. perfectly, I would absolutely love to see Catherine bring Savage Cove back to life in another of her stunning books and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she will live. I was devastated when I turned the last page and realised I had come to the end of my holiday there and had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and devour it in one sitting like I did!!! I was gobsmacked by the twist at the end which I did not see coming so a HUGE congratulations Catherine for managing to shock me. It isn't an easy feat as I have read so many books of different genres that it gets harder and harder to not work out what is happening, especially in romance books so a huge congratulations is in order!! This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book by this amazing author and have already added all her books to my wish list. This would make a stunning movie and a gorgeous series (Hint, Hint Catherine ;) !!
Clear your schedules as you will not be able to put this stunning page turner down!!
The characters are strong, well rounded, realistic and I became completely invested in both Lizzie and Nick. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much change and more (but I can't say more as I don't want to spoil the storyline for anyone) . Both of them were such strong protagonists that willl stay with me for a long time!!! My heart went out to Lizzie after she lost her brother, then her phone and ended up questioning what to do as her life changed on Savage Cove. She did annoy me on several occasions when it seemed she was quick to run away from what was happening and when she refused to let other things happen as she had made a promise that, personally, I think she took too literally. However, I really liked her character and loved watching her relationship with Nick develop throughout the book. I absolutely adored Nick who is sweet, loving and a genuine guy. My heart tore apart for him when a certain event happens, sorry for the tease but you will just have to get your copy to find out what I mean but I can promise you, you wont be disappointed!!! I have got to mention the absolutely adorable, but the very naughty Houdini!!! I am a huge animal lover so any pets and animals in books get bonus points for me and this on e gets extra because he is such a big part in this story and because he is such a wicked chap!! I also adored Nick's Dad Walter who is such a handsome and sweet gentleman who says it as it is and his adorable dog Candy. It is so sweet how close Nick and Walter have and is lovely to see how they look after and protect each other. I also enjoyed getting to know Claire who Lizzie meets in Sol after watching her on several occasions when she is enjoying a drink absorbed in a book herself. Walter and Claire are both lovely characters who both have a wicked sense of humour!! I loved the majority of characters in the book and there were only two that I could not stand but I cannot name them or say any more as it will give too much away but when you have read this amazing book feel free to message me and share your thoughts on them with me!! Regardless of how I felt about the characters they all worked perfectly together to make this gorgeous book an unputdownable memorable one that will send you off onto a stunning holiday away to Savage Cove!! Catherine did a fantastic job of bringing each and every one of them to life and I would love to meet them all (well, almost all) again. Another hint Catherine!!
Congratulations Catherine on an absolutely stunningly beautiful unputdownable book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! Welcome to my favourite romantic author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, addictive and compelling beautiful, heart-warming book about grief and moving on with a twist you wont see coming!!!
Genres covered in this book include Women's Friendship Fiction, Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Domestic Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Women's Romance Fiction, Romance, Romance Novel, Family Drama, General Fiction, Contemporary Women's Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Women's Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy and Contemporary Romance Fiction and amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Fiona Valpy, Lucinda Riley, Barbara O’Neal, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Susanne O’Leary, Pamela Kelly, Nancy Thayer. Amanda Prowse, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a page turner.
416 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle and £10.99 in paperback at time of review, 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
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Review for 'The Last Message' by Catherine Hope.
Read and reviewed via Headline Publishers for Catherine Hope NetGalley and Headline Eternal Publishers.
Publication date 11th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Headline Eternal. I have yet to read a book published by Headline 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 50 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the fictional Savage Cove, Washington, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Lizzie and Nick. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Last Message' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Catherine discusses/includes cancer and loss.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is a stunning story of loss, love, grief and moving on with life. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, caring, moving on, and so much more. Catherine's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Lizzie and Nick the whole time. While you are reading you can feel the sand on your feet, smell the sea air and taste the delicious treats from Sol. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Nick and Lizzie and going through their pain, love, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying the book to read it every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face several times and both happy and sad!! Lizzie is heartbroken after losing her brother Rob to cancer and is determined to keep her promise to him to live her life and travel the world. Nick is heartbroken after losing his wife 3 years ago and still hasn't got over the way it happened. Lizzie loses her phone on the ferry over to Savage Cove and receives a text message from an unknown number that changes her life. Nick is walking his mischievous dog, the aptly named, Houdini when he bumps into Lizzie. They end up bumping into each other more and end up meeting on the beach on several occasions. As their feelings towards each other grow and develop they both hide secrets that could tear everything apart. This book is a stunning story filled with emotions about love, self-discovery, hope, healing and grief that sweeps you onto the stunning Savage Cove where secrets are held, hope is given and lives are changed. Catherine made Savage Cove come alive and portrayed the Cove perfectly. perfectly, I would absolutely love to see Catherine bring Savage Cove back to life in another of her stunning books and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she will live. I was devastated when I turned the last page and realised I had come to the end of my holiday there and had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and devour it in one sitting like I did!!! I was gobsmacked by the twist at the end which I did not see coming so a HUGE congratulations Catherine for managing to shock me. It isn't an easy feat as I have read so many books of different genres that it gets harder and harder to not work out what is happening, especially in romance books so a huge congratulations is in order!! This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book by this amazing author and have already added all her books to my wish list. This would make a stunning movie and a gorgeous series (Hint, Hint Catherine ;) !!
Clear your schedules as you will not be able to put this stunning page turner down!!
The characters are strong, well rounded, realistic and I became completely invested in both Lizzie and Nick. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much change and more (but I can't say more as I don't want to spoil the storyline for anyone) . Both of them were such strong protagonists that willl stay with me for a long time!!! My heart went out to Lizzie after she lost her brother, then her phone and ended up questioning what to do as her life changed on Savage Cove. She did annoy me on several occasions when it seemed she was quick to run away from what was happening and when she refused to let other things happen as she had made a promise that, personally, I think she took too literally. However, I really liked her character and loved watching her relationship with Nick develop throughout the book. I absolutely adored Nick who is sweet, loving and a genuine guy. My heart tore apart for him when a certain event happens, sorry for the tease but you will just have to get your copy to find out what I mean but I can promise you, you wont be disappointed!!! I have got to mention the absolutely adorable, but the very naughty Houdini!!! I am a huge animal lover so any pets and animals in books get bonus points for me and this on e gets extra because he is such a big part in this story and because he is such a wicked chap!! I also adored Nick's Dad Walter who is such a handsome and sweet gentleman who says it as it is and his adorable dog Candy. It is so sweet how close Nick and Walter have and is lovely to see how they look after and protect each other. I also enjoyed getting to know Claire who Lizzie meets in Sol after watching her on several occasions when she is enjoying a drink absorbed in a book herself. Walter and Claire are both lovely characters who both have a wicked sense of humour!! I loved the majority of characters in the book and there were only two that I could not stand but I cannot name them or say any more as it will give too much away but when you have read this amazing book feel free to message me and share your thoughts on them with me!! Regardless of how I felt about the characters they all worked perfectly together to make this gorgeous book an unputdownable memorable one that will send you off onto a stunning holiday away to Savage Cove!! Catherine did a fantastic job of bringing each and every one of them to life and I would love to meet them all (well, almost all) again. Another hint Catherine!!
Congratulations Catherine on an absolutely stunningly beautiful unputdownable book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! Welcome to my favourite romantic author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, addictive and compelling beautiful, heart-warming book about grief and moving on with a twist you wont see coming!!!
Genres covered in this book include Women's Friendship Fiction, Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Domestic Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Women's Romance Fiction, Romance, Romance Novel, Family Drama, General Fiction, Contemporary Women's Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Women's Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy and Contemporary Romance Fiction and amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Fiona Valpy, Lucinda Riley, Barbara O’Neal, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Susanne O’Leary, Pamela Kelly, Nancy Thayer. Amanda Prowse, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a page turner.
416 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle and £10.99 in paperback at time of review, 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
#TheLastMessage #CatherineHope #CatherineHopeBk #catherinehopebooks #HeadlinePublishing #Headline #HeadlineEternal #eternal_books #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited
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March 26, 2023
The Last Message
By Catherine Hope
Publishing date: 4/11/2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
After the death of her twin, Lizzie heads to a secluded beach town in an attempt to fulfill her promise to her brother: to explore the world and not let it pass her by.
She arrives at Savage Cove and has to purchase a replacement phone after dropping hers in the ocean. While she waits for her new phone, she purchases a temporary that is....well, old and outdated.
She receives a text message on the phone that was clearly not meant for her, but she can't help but want to know more about the woman the text was meant for.
She meets Nick when walking on the beach, and they have an instant connection/attraction. Nick is grieving the loss of his wife and trying to deal with the guilt he is feeling regarding her passing.
It's no secret that Lizzie and Nick like each other, but Lizzie is only in Savage Cove temporarily....and she's not sure how to feel when starts to learn that Nick may be the man behind the mystery texts.....
3 stars for me means it was an okay read, but you may love it! There were some slow spots in the middle that I think weren't needed for the story. It was confusing at times because the perspective would bounce around with no explanation. It was also unclear what genre this was.....thriller? Romance? It's almost as if the author wasn't sure what kind of book she wanted, so she said, "Let's do both in one!"
With that being said, the plot was interesting. I was intrigued by the mystery text aspect. And I love me a good romance!!! Overall, the last 25% was my favorite. It wrapped up nicely, and I was happy with the ending 😊
Thank you @netgalley @headlineeternal and for the chance to read this one early! Always appreciative!
By Catherine Hope
Publishing date: 4/11/2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
After the death of her twin, Lizzie heads to a secluded beach town in an attempt to fulfill her promise to her brother: to explore the world and not let it pass her by.
She arrives at Savage Cove and has to purchase a replacement phone after dropping hers in the ocean. While she waits for her new phone, she purchases a temporary that is....well, old and outdated.
She receives a text message on the phone that was clearly not meant for her, but she can't help but want to know more about the woman the text was meant for.
She meets Nick when walking on the beach, and they have an instant connection/attraction. Nick is grieving the loss of his wife and trying to deal with the guilt he is feeling regarding her passing.
It's no secret that Lizzie and Nick like each other, but Lizzie is only in Savage Cove temporarily....and she's not sure how to feel when starts to learn that Nick may be the man behind the mystery texts.....
3 stars for me means it was an okay read, but you may love it! There were some slow spots in the middle that I think weren't needed for the story. It was confusing at times because the perspective would bounce around with no explanation. It was also unclear what genre this was.....thriller? Romance? It's almost as if the author wasn't sure what kind of book she wanted, so she said, "Let's do both in one!"
With that being said, the plot was interesting. I was intrigued by the mystery text aspect. And I love me a good romance!!! Overall, the last 25% was my favorite. It wrapped up nicely, and I was happy with the ending 😊
Thank you @netgalley @headlineeternal and for the chance to read this one early! Always appreciative!
March 26, 2023
I've always had a soft spot for stories that involve letters, texts, etc., and at the center of this story is a text message. The last message.
When Lizzie receives a text message that's obviously not meant for her, she can't help but be intrigued by it's meaning. Having lost her twin brother, she knows grief and she can feel the grief seeping through that message. When Lizzie meets Nick, she has no clue how that message might bring them together...or tear them apart.
I loved Nick and Lizzie. Both of their characters are older and mature, but almost like teenagers falling in love for the first time as their feelings for each other took hold. Their romance is almost an insta-love, but it's a slow burn that's mostly fade to black. It's a testimony to finding love after loss and grief. It's a story of hope and new beginnings.
I really liked the idea of this story. Although some of the imagery here is beautifully written, parts of the book seemed weighed down by the details. I found myself wanting to see more of Nick and Lizzie and less of everything else. There is a touch of mystery within this romance that I needed to see to the end, but I found the journey to get there slow going. The intrigue kept me turning the pages but I admit that I found myself skimming more than once. The ending definitely picked up the pace, but then, I felt like it was too rushed. I would have like more details, more explanation, just MORE as this story was resolved.
When Lizzie receives a text message that's obviously not meant for her, she can't help but be intrigued by it's meaning. Having lost her twin brother, she knows grief and she can feel the grief seeping through that message. When Lizzie meets Nick, she has no clue how that message might bring them together...or tear them apart.
I loved Nick and Lizzie. Both of their characters are older and mature, but almost like teenagers falling in love for the first time as their feelings for each other took hold. Their romance is almost an insta-love, but it's a slow burn that's mostly fade to black. It's a testimony to finding love after loss and grief. It's a story of hope and new beginnings.
I really liked the idea of this story. Although some of the imagery here is beautifully written, parts of the book seemed weighed down by the details. I found myself wanting to see more of Nick and Lizzie and less of everything else. There is a touch of mystery within this romance that I needed to see to the end, but I found the journey to get there slow going. The intrigue kept me turning the pages but I admit that I found myself skimming more than once. The ending definitely picked up the pace, but then, I felt like it was too rushed. I would have like more details, more explanation, just MORE as this story was resolved.
July 6, 2024
Catherine Hope is a new author to me and this won’t be my last book by her.
Lizzie is travelling alone after the tragic death of her beloved twin Rob. On her arrival in Savage Cove Lizzie drops her phone into the Ocean. This leads to a turn her life that will change things forever.
Nick also lives in Savage Cove and is trying to grieve for his dead wife, lizzie and Nick meet when his dog takes a shine to Lizzie.
Lizzie is torn between travelling to keep a promise to Rob but is now torn between staying and going. A random text arrives on lizzies temporary phone which throws everything up in the air.
A lovely story set in a beautiful location definitely worth reading.
Lizzie is travelling alone after the tragic death of her beloved twin Rob. On her arrival in Savage Cove Lizzie drops her phone into the Ocean. This leads to a turn her life that will change things forever.
Nick also lives in Savage Cove and is trying to grieve for his dead wife, lizzie and Nick meet when his dog takes a shine to Lizzie.
Lizzie is torn between travelling to keep a promise to Rob but is now torn between staying and going. A random text arrives on lizzies temporary phone which throws everything up in the air.
A lovely story set in a beautiful location definitely worth reading.
April 17, 2023
DNF
The book is exceedingly long for a very guessable plot. It's obvious Marissa is Nick’s wife, and the revelation will cause havoc between unexpected friends who will soon become lovers, Lizzie and Nick. And that's something I knew at 19%. Even if that doesn't happen, the guessability takes points off the book’s charm, and even the setting and abstractly monotonous monologues of Lizzie’s day at Savage Cove don't enchant me. It might be for those just stepping into the mystery genre, but that's a very specific and tiny niche to target. The book isn't for me, and I don't see myself picking it up again anytime soon.
The book is exceedingly long for a very guessable plot. It's obvious Marissa is Nick’s wife, and the revelation will cause havoc between unexpected friends who will soon become lovers, Lizzie and Nick. And that's something I knew at 19%. Even if that doesn't happen, the guessability takes points off the book’s charm, and even the setting and abstractly monotonous monologues of Lizzie’s day at Savage Cove don't enchant me. It might be for those just stepping into the mystery genre, but that's a very specific and tiny niche to target. The book isn't for me, and I don't see myself picking it up again anytime soon.
April 17, 2023
This was my first Catherine Hope's book, and won't be my last. I loved this breathtakingly well written love story. Nick and Lizzie's story is emotional, thrilling, and intriguing. They are both amazing characters. This is a beautiful slow burn romance, filled with grief, healing, secrets, and mystery. The supporting characters are interesting. I enjoyed it, and I highly recommend it. #CaffeinatedPR #NetGalley
April 25, 2023
This was a little on the slow side for me, but I enjoyed the chemistry between Nick and Lizzie and the added mystery. A nice read all in all. *I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 8, 2023
I don’t know why I didn’t dnf this book
September 7, 2023
A nice easy read.
The ending is very unexpected!
The ending is very unexpected!
April 16, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Last Message' by Catherine Hope.
Read and reviewed via Headline Publishers for Catherine Hope NetGalley and Headline Eternal Publishers.
Publication date 11th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Headline Eternal. I have yet to read a book published by Headline 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 50 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the fictional Savage Cove, Washington, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Lizzie and Nick. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Last Message' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Catherine discusses/includes cancer and loss.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is a stunning story of loss, love, grief and moving on with life. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, caring, moving on, and so much more. Catherine's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Lizzie and Nick the whole time. While you are reading you can feel the sand on your feet, smell the sea air and taste the delicious treats from Sol. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Nick and Lizzie and going through their pain, love, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying the book to read it every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face several times and both happy and sad!! Lizzie is heartbroken after losing her brother Rob to cancer and is determined to keep her promise to him to live her life and travel the world. Nick is heartbroken after losing his wife 3 years ago and still hasn't got over the way it happened. Lizzie loses her phone on the ferry over to Savage Cove and receives a text message from an unknown number that changes her life. Nick is walking his mischievous dog, the aptly named, Houdini when he bumps into Lizzie. They end up bumping into each other more and end up meeting on the beach on several occasions. As their feelings towards each other grow and develop they both hide secrets that could tear everything apart. This book is a stunning story filled with emotions about love, self-discovery, hope, healing and grief that sweeps you onto the stunning Savage Cove where secrets are held, hope is given and lives are changed. Catherine made Savage Cove come alive and portrayed the Cove perfectly. perfectly, I would absolutely love to see Catherine bring Savage Cove back to life in another of her stunning books and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she will live. I was devastated when I turned the last page and realised I had come to the end of my holiday there and had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and devour it in one sitting like I did!!! I was gobsmacked by the twist at the end which I did not see coming so a HUGE congratulations Catherine for managing to shock me. It isn't an easy feat as I have read so many books of different genres that it gets harder and harder to not work out what is happening, especially in romance books so a huge congratulations is in order!! This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book by this amazing author and have already added all her books to my wish list. This would make a stunning movie and a gorgeous series (Hint, Hint Catherine ;) !!
Clear your schedules as you will not be able to put this stunning page turner down!!
The characters are strong, well rounded, realistic and I became completely invested in both Lizzie and Nick. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much change and more (but I can't say more as I don't want to spoil the storyline for anyone) . Both of them were such strong protagonists that willl stay with me for a long time!!! My heart went out to Lizzie after she lost her brother, then her phone and ended up questioning what to do as her life changed on Savage Cove. She did annoy me on several occasions when it seemed she was quick to run away from what was happening and when she refused to let other things happen as she had made a promise that, personally, I think she took too literally. However, I really liked her character and loved watching her relationship with Nick develop throughout the book. I absolutely adored Nick who is sweet, loving and a genuine guy. My heart tore apart for him when a certain event happens, sorry for the tease but you will just have to get your copy to find out what I mean but I can promise you, you wont be disappointed!!! I have got to mention the absolutely adorable, but the very naughty Houdini!!! I am a huge animal lover so any pets and animals in books get bonus points for me and this on e gets extra because he is such a big part in this story and because he is such a wicked chap!! I also adored Nick's Dad Walter who is such a handsome and sweet gentleman who says it as it is and his adorable dog Candy. It is so sweet how close Nick and Walter have and is lovely to see how they look after and protect each other. I also enjoyed getting to know Claire who Lizzie meets in Sol after watching her on several occasions when she is enjoying a drink absorbed in a book herself. Walter and Claire are both lovely characters who both have a wicked sense of humour!! I loved the majority of characters in the book and there were only two that I could not stand but I cannot name them or say any more as it will give too much away but when you have read this amazing book feel free to message me and share your thoughts on them with me!! Regardless of how I felt about the characters they all worked perfectly together to make this gorgeous book an unputdownable memorable one that will send you off onto a stunning holiday away to Savage Cove!! Catherine did a fantastic job of bringing each and every one of them to life and I would love to meet them all (well, almost all) again. Another hint Catherine!!
Congratulations Catherine on an absolutely stunningly beautiful unputdownable book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! Welcome to my favourite romantic author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, addictive and compelling beautiful, heart-warming book about grief and moving on with a twist you wont see coming!!!
Genres covered in this book include Women's Friendship Fiction, Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Domestic Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Women's Romance Fiction, Romance, Romance Novel, Family Drama, General Fiction, Contemporary Women's Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Women's Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy and Contemporary Romance Fiction and amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Fiona Valpy, Lucinda Riley, Barbara O’Neal, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Susanne O’Leary, Pamela Kelly, Nancy Thayer. Amanda Prowse, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a page turner.
416 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle and £10.99 in paperback at time of review, 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.
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Review for 'The Last Message' by Catherine Hope.
Read and reviewed via Headline Publishers for Catherine Hope NetGalley and Headline Eternal Publishers.
Publication date 11th April 2023.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Headline Eternal. I have yet to read a book published by Headline 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 50 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the fictional Savage Cove, Washington, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Lizzie and Nick. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Last Message' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Catherine discusses/includes cancer and loss.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! One of the most STUNNING books I have ever read!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is a stunning story of loss, love, grief and moving on with life. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, caring, moving on, and so much more. Catherine's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Lizzie and Nick the whole time. While you are reading you can feel the sand on your feet, smell the sea air and taste the delicious treats from Sol. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Nick and Lizzie and going through their pain, love, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying the book to read it every chance that I got and I had tears absolutely streaming down my face several times and both happy and sad!! Lizzie is heartbroken after losing her brother Rob to cancer and is determined to keep her promise to him to live her life and travel the world. Nick is heartbroken after losing his wife 3 years ago and still hasn't got over the way it happened. Lizzie loses her phone on the ferry over to Savage Cove and receives a text message from an unknown number that changes her life. Nick is walking his mischievous dog, the aptly named, Houdini when he bumps into Lizzie. They end up bumping into each other more and end up meeting on the beach on several occasions. As their feelings towards each other grow and develop they both hide secrets that could tear everything apart. This book is a stunning story filled with emotions about love, self-discovery, hope, healing and grief that sweeps you onto the stunning Savage Cove where secrets are held, hope is given and lives are changed. Catherine made Savage Cove come alive and portrayed the Cove perfectly. perfectly, I would absolutely love to see Catherine bring Savage Cove back to life in another of her stunning books and I am keeping my fingers crossed that she will live. I was devastated when I turned the last page and realised I had come to the end of my holiday there and had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and devour it in one sitting like I did!!! I was gobsmacked by the twist at the end which I did not see coming so a HUGE congratulations Catherine for managing to shock me. It isn't an easy feat as I have read so many books of different genres that it gets harder and harder to not work out what is happening, especially in romance books so a huge congratulations is in order!! This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book by this amazing author and have already added all her books to my wish list. This would make a stunning movie and a gorgeous series (Hint, Hint Catherine ;) !!
Clear your schedules as you will not be able to put this stunning page turner down!!
The characters are strong, well rounded, realistic and I became completely invested in both Lizzie and Nick. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, betrayal, guilt , anger, sorrow and so much more. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much change and more (but I can't say more as I don't want to spoil the storyline for anyone) . Both of them were such strong protagonists that willl stay with me for a long time!!! My heart went out to Lizzie after she lost her brother, then her phone and ended up questioning what to do as her life changed on Savage Cove. She did annoy me on several occasions when it seemed she was quick to run away from what was happening and when she refused to let other things happen as she had made a promise that, personally, I think she took too literally. However, I really liked her character and loved watching her relationship with Nick develop throughout the book. I absolutely adored Nick who is sweet, loving and a genuine guy. My heart tore apart for him when a certain event happens, sorry for the tease but you will just have to get your copy to find out what I mean but I can promise you, you wont be disappointed!!! I have got to mention the absolutely adorable, but the very naughty Houdini!!! I am a huge animal lover so any pets and animals in books get bonus points for me and this on e gets extra because he is such a big part in this story and because he is such a wicked chap!! I also adored Nick's Dad Walter who is such a handsome and sweet gentleman who says it as it is and his adorable dog Candy. It is so sweet how close Nick and Walter have and is lovely to see how they look after and protect each other. I also enjoyed getting to know Claire who Lizzie meets in Sol after watching her on several occasions when she is enjoying a drink absorbed in a book herself. Walter and Claire are both lovely characters who both have a wicked sense of humour!! I loved the majority of characters in the book and there were only two that I could not stand but I cannot name them or say any more as it will give too much away but when you have read this amazing book feel free to message me and share your thoughts on them with me!! Regardless of how I felt about the characters they all worked perfectly together to make this gorgeous book an unputdownable memorable one that will send you off onto a stunning holiday away to Savage Cove!! Catherine did a fantastic job of bringing each and every one of them to life and I would love to meet them all (well, almost all) again. Another hint Catherine!!
Congratulations Catherine on an absolutely stunningly beautiful unputdownable book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! Welcome to my favourite romantic author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, addictive and compelling beautiful, heart-warming book about grief and moving on with a twist you wont see coming!!!
Genres covered in this book include Women's Friendship Fiction, Women's Contemporary Fiction, Women's Domestic Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Women's Romance Fiction, Romance, Romance Novel, Family Drama, General Fiction, Contemporary Women's Fiction, Domestic Fiction, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Women's Literary Fiction, Romantic Comedy and Contemporary Romance Fiction and amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Fiona Valpy, Lucinda Riley, Barbara O’Neal, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Susanne O’Leary, Pamela Kelly, Nancy Thayer. Amanda Prowse, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a page turner.
416 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle and £10.99 in paperback at time of review, 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
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October 16, 2023
loved it :) cutesy slay, deffo worth a read
December 14, 2023
Hmmm this book was.... hmmfpphhh...
I struggled with rating this book as I loved the plot but hated the writing and the characters. I would say I didn't enjoy reading it but I also finished it without a problem and did have fun reading it.
I did enjoy the world created, I thought it was well written and Savage Cove was wonderfully described. I also wanted to find out what happened next, although the book was entirely predictable from start to finish. Unfortunately, these are the only good things I can say about it.
I picked this book up on a whim. The title and the blurb were fascinating and I was expecting a harrowing story with troubled characters. However, I found that the two main characters were quite one dimensional. I hoped that the book would dive into the complex feelings around grief but it failed to do so, half of Lizzie's POV was talking about her brother but it was textbook sadness. It's a shame that the book didn't go on more about loving after tragedy for both characters.
Nick was slightly better written then Lizzie. He did seem to be more affected by the events that have happened in his life but it still didn't go on further. Lizzie thought about nothing but Nick. All of her words and thoughts were purely about her love interest. She always seem to prepare to do her work but never actually did any? Kate, her editor, was mentioned like twice and was made out to be quite important but not much actually came of it.
The actual writing of the book was also strange. It seemed like half of the book were rhetorical questions. The POV switch from Lizzie's first person to Nick's third person were jarring and happened randomly in the middle of the page. I would forgive this if it happened more often but the book switched to Nick's POV probably only like five times, which disturbed the flow of the story.
[Spoilers]
The ending was somehow worse then the rest of the book. It seemed rushed and not developed. Nick's feelings to Marissa coming back were not there at all. I would've expected a bigger reaction to someone literally coming back from the dead.
Just overall, not worth a read. Poorly written and poor character development.
I struggled with rating this book as I loved the plot but hated the writing and the characters. I would say I didn't enjoy reading it but I also finished it without a problem and did have fun reading it.
I did enjoy the world created, I thought it was well written and Savage Cove was wonderfully described. I also wanted to find out what happened next, although the book was entirely predictable from start to finish. Unfortunately, these are the only good things I can say about it.
I picked this book up on a whim. The title and the blurb were fascinating and I was expecting a harrowing story with troubled characters. However, I found that the two main characters were quite one dimensional. I hoped that the book would dive into the complex feelings around grief but it failed to do so, half of Lizzie's POV was talking about her brother but it was textbook sadness. It's a shame that the book didn't go on more about loving after tragedy for both characters.
Nick was slightly better written then Lizzie. He did seem to be more affected by the events that have happened in his life but it still didn't go on further. Lizzie thought about nothing but Nick. All of her words and thoughts were purely about her love interest. She always seem to prepare to do her work but never actually did any? Kate, her editor, was mentioned like twice and was made out to be quite important but not much actually came of it.
The actual writing of the book was also strange. It seemed like half of the book were rhetorical questions. The POV switch from Lizzie's first person to Nick's third person were jarring and happened randomly in the middle of the page. I would forgive this if it happened more often but the book switched to Nick's POV probably only like five times, which disturbed the flow of the story.
[Spoilers]
The ending was somehow worse then the rest of the book. It seemed rushed and not developed. Nick's feelings to Marissa coming back were not there at all. I would've expected a bigger reaction to someone literally coming back from the dead.
Just overall, not worth a read. Poorly written and poor character development.
April 10, 2023
The premise of this book held such promise, but the execution was just so poor. It flip-flops between first and third-person POV, which I found to be an odd creative choice on the author's part since it made things confusing for the reader. And the ending was so rushed and forced and.... not even resolved. What was the point?
Skip it.
Skip it.
October 5, 2024
Full review to follow.
April 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oooffff, this was an amazing read. One of the utmost best best reads of all times. This story is about a girl going out on adventures and travelling the world to fulfill the last dying wish she had promised with her brother. One of her destinations is Savage Cove, a small town where everyone seems to know each other and it's simple, yet beautiful. Here she discovers a cafe that she like, gets interested in a picture of a woman hung on a wall, and from that picture alonw, the whole journey starts. Of her researching, exploring and finding the love of her life, Nick.
It is a BEAUTIFUL story, if the capslock mean anything to you. I swear to God, if I have it in me to remove my memory and read it again? I hell damn would. I loved the built up, the plot, the storyline and how the author beautifully and intricately connected all the dots together. She kept me hooked like no other and I have never read a book so fast before. My day, other than university classes, revolved around no one but Lizzie and Nick. Even though they are book characters but seeing them two together did something to ME. I felt the butterflies within my stomach, I felt the blush creeping up my cheeks and I was the one to swoon and shriek loudly at all the right places for all the beautiful and private moments that they shared.
I loved how the author portrayed the emotions of each character, describing their inner turmoil exactly as one would envision it. The character development was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! AMAZINGLY DONE AND BRILLIANTLY EXECUTED! These two sweet souls constantly had my heart and where a character would come that would try to drive these two apart to ruin the mood? I, myself, would want to jump inside the book and throw a trolley of bricks their way, which clearly shows that the author succeeded in her brilliance.
Thank you @catherinehopebooks for giving me the opportunity to read your masterpiece. This was my first book from you and definitely not the last at all. A beautifully well written book with two characters that live rent-free in my heart. For forever.🖤💞🖤💞🖤💞🖤
And oh yeah, Nick's dad was the absolute best! 😂🤣😂🤣😂
——
“I’d rather spend time with you.”
——
Where we touched flooded me with warmth.
——
See you on the beach.
——
“No, not at all, just happy. I could stand here all day with you.”
——
And that kiss. That kiss! It still made me giggle, and heat radiate through my chest, when I relived it. I hadn’t felt butterflies like this, ever.
——
“A woman after my own heart,” he said lightly, and liked the blush that rushed up to her cheeks.
——
Nick hadn’t been this lost in a person, ever.
——
Lizzie, I would like it if you decide to stay here with me.”
I beamed, and that spark leaped to a little flame. “I’d like to stay with you.”
——
“You take my breath away.”
——
“Nothing looks sexier than you in one of my shirts.”
——
“You are irresistible.”
——
“Where have you been all my life?”
——
“I’m glad you came into my life so unexpectedly.” I don’t want to think of you leaving.”
——
“As much as I’d like to get the membership started today, I think we have to abstain.” Nick gently let me down. “We could get caught.”
I was suddenly feeling very daring and naughty. “Well, isn’t that what makes things more exciting? The chance of being caught?”
“You are a wicked temptress.” He leaned in close, kissing me as he whispered against my lips, “Of course, never in all my times flying private has a pilot left the cockpit.”
“Wicked? I don’t mind being the temptress, but not wicked. How about a tempting temptress?” I leaned down and nuzzled his neck. “Why do you think I wore a dress?”
——
Your happiness makes me happy.
——
The sun was coming in the curved windows at the perfect angle, and caught her hair so that it was almost translucent. And her eyes. He couldn’t get over her eyes. They were the most incredible turquoise, with the irises rimmed in a darker blue. Every time he looked into them, he felt a stab in his heart and was transfixed.
——
“You know, you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.”
——
Then we’re the perfect couple.
——
I’ve got you now. I’ll never let you go.
——
“I have so much to tell you. But I want to say this to you first, before anything else. I love you. I’ve fallen in love with you. I love you, I love you, I love you!”
——
Lizzie, I love you.
——
What are the odds that those messages, which represented an old relationship, would be received by a new love?”
——
I was in the arms of the man I loved.
——
There’s a lot about you imprinted on me, Lizzie. You have become such an integral part of my life, and of me, it’s as if we can’t tell where one of us ends and the other begins.”
——
I faced the ocean. The wind and nature had taken something from me that I treasured. The hat was gone. And Nick had risked his life to try and save it for me. In that moment, I realized that my brother had given me to Nick. Rob had let go of me. And I of him.
——
“I love you, Lizzie.”
“I love you too.”
——
🖤💞🖤💞🖤💞🖤
Oooffff, this was an amazing read. One of the utmost best best reads of all times. This story is about a girl going out on adventures and travelling the world to fulfill the last dying wish she had promised with her brother. One of her destinations is Savage Cove, a small town where everyone seems to know each other and it's simple, yet beautiful. Here she discovers a cafe that she like, gets interested in a picture of a woman hung on a wall, and from that picture alonw, the whole journey starts. Of her researching, exploring and finding the love of her life, Nick.
It is a BEAUTIFUL story, if the capslock mean anything to you. I swear to God, if I have it in me to remove my memory and read it again? I hell damn would. I loved the built up, the plot, the storyline and how the author beautifully and intricately connected all the dots together. She kept me hooked like no other and I have never read a book so fast before. My day, other than university classes, revolved around no one but Lizzie and Nick. Even though they are book characters but seeing them two together did something to ME. I felt the butterflies within my stomach, I felt the blush creeping up my cheeks and I was the one to swoon and shriek loudly at all the right places for all the beautiful and private moments that they shared.
I loved how the author portrayed the emotions of each character, describing their inner turmoil exactly as one would envision it. The character development was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! AMAZINGLY DONE AND BRILLIANTLY EXECUTED! These two sweet souls constantly had my heart and where a character would come that would try to drive these two apart to ruin the mood? I, myself, would want to jump inside the book and throw a trolley of bricks their way, which clearly shows that the author succeeded in her brilliance.
Thank you @catherinehopebooks for giving me the opportunity to read your masterpiece. This was my first book from you and definitely not the last at all. A beautifully well written book with two characters that live rent-free in my heart. For forever.🖤💞🖤💞🖤💞🖤
And oh yeah, Nick's dad was the absolute best! 😂🤣😂🤣😂
——
“I’d rather spend time with you.”
——
Where we touched flooded me with warmth.
——
See you on the beach.
——
“No, not at all, just happy. I could stand here all day with you.”
——
And that kiss. That kiss! It still made me giggle, and heat radiate through my chest, when I relived it. I hadn’t felt butterflies like this, ever.
——
“A woman after my own heart,” he said lightly, and liked the blush that rushed up to her cheeks.
——
Nick hadn’t been this lost in a person, ever.
——
Lizzie, I would like it if you decide to stay here with me.”
I beamed, and that spark leaped to a little flame. “I’d like to stay with you.”
——
“You take my breath away.”
——
“Nothing looks sexier than you in one of my shirts.”
——
“You are irresistible.”
——
“Where have you been all my life?”
——
“I’m glad you came into my life so unexpectedly.” I don’t want to think of you leaving.”
——
“As much as I’d like to get the membership started today, I think we have to abstain.” Nick gently let me down. “We could get caught.”
I was suddenly feeling very daring and naughty. “Well, isn’t that what makes things more exciting? The chance of being caught?”
“You are a wicked temptress.” He leaned in close, kissing me as he whispered against my lips, “Of course, never in all my times flying private has a pilot left the cockpit.”
“Wicked? I don’t mind being the temptress, but not wicked. How about a tempting temptress?” I leaned down and nuzzled his neck. “Why do you think I wore a dress?”
——
Your happiness makes me happy.
——
The sun was coming in the curved windows at the perfect angle, and caught her hair so that it was almost translucent. And her eyes. He couldn’t get over her eyes. They were the most incredible turquoise, with the irises rimmed in a darker blue. Every time he looked into them, he felt a stab in his heart and was transfixed.
——
“You know, you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.”
——
Then we’re the perfect couple.
——
I’ve got you now. I’ll never let you go.
——
“I have so much to tell you. But I want to say this to you first, before anything else. I love you. I’ve fallen in love with you. I love you, I love you, I love you!”
——
Lizzie, I love you.
——
What are the odds that those messages, which represented an old relationship, would be received by a new love?”
——
I was in the arms of the man I loved.
——
There’s a lot about you imprinted on me, Lizzie. You have become such an integral part of my life, and of me, it’s as if we can’t tell where one of us ends and the other begins.”
——
I faced the ocean. The wind and nature had taken something from me that I treasured. The hat was gone. And Nick had risked his life to try and save it for me. In that moment, I realized that my brother had given me to Nick. Rob had let go of me. And I of him.
——
“I love you, Lizzie.”
“I love you too.”
——
🖤💞🖤💞🖤💞🖤
April 19, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up. Lizzie is grieving the death of her twin brother. She made him a death bed promise to travel the world and enjoy life. In The Last Message, she is taking a trip to Savage Cove, a secluded beach town on the Pacific Ocean in Washington State. It is one place, out of the many she plans to visit to fulfill her promise to Rob. On the ferry, she loses her phone in the water trying to take a picture of a whale and her calf. She purchases an old refurbished phone until a new IPhone can be delivered to the small store. Apparently the number is also recycled, as she receives a sad and emotional text to someone named Marissa. She wants to know more and begins to research a missing local woman. The next morning, she meets Nick and his dog, Houdini, on the beach. There is an instant connection, but Nick is also grieving the loss of his wife, three years earlier. As they run into each other on the beach, they begin to develop a friendship, that eventually becomes more. Can they both get past their grief, guilt, remorse and more to open up to the possibility of love?
The Last Message was poignant and heartwarming. The reader is aware that it is Nick who sent the message, but Lizzie is not sure and Nick doesn't know that Lizzie received it. This was a slow burn romance, that developed naturally, yet over a few weeks. I liked both Lizzie and Nick, and felt for their emotional issues. There were times I got frustrated with both of them, but they passed quickly. I enjoyed the inclusion of the dogs (Nick's father also has one named Candy) as they were instrumental in bringing Nick and Lizzie together and add some humor to a rather serious story. Having Nick's father and his female friend in the story added a feeling of family that Lizzie definitely needed and helped her decide that maybe Savage Cove was a good place to put down some roots. Catherine Hope is a descriptive writer and I could envision the places that Lizzie was visiting and writing about. Of course no romance is without some angst and roadblocks and there were a few. Once the emotional hurdles were done, there was one big on that didn't work for me. I don't want to spoil the story for anyone, so I will just say that is was almost as if someone said there had to be a twist and huge problem for the romance to work. I disagree. I think the mystery of what happened to Marissa could have ended a bit differently. Up until that point, this was a solid 4 star read for me, but I am dropping off half a star. Again, this is a slow burn, closed door romance with great characters, cute dogs and lots of great places to visit for the armchair traveler. This is Catherine Hope's debut and I will be watching for more books from her in the future.
The Last Message was poignant and heartwarming. The reader is aware that it is Nick who sent the message, but Lizzie is not sure and Nick doesn't know that Lizzie received it. This was a slow burn romance, that developed naturally, yet over a few weeks. I liked both Lizzie and Nick, and felt for their emotional issues. There were times I got frustrated with both of them, but they passed quickly. I enjoyed the inclusion of the dogs (Nick's father also has one named Candy) as they were instrumental in bringing Nick and Lizzie together and add some humor to a rather serious story. Having Nick's father and his female friend in the story added a feeling of family that Lizzie definitely needed and helped her decide that maybe Savage Cove was a good place to put down some roots. Catherine Hope is a descriptive writer and I could envision the places that Lizzie was visiting and writing about. Of course no romance is without some angst and roadblocks and there were a few. Once the emotional hurdles were done, there was one big on that didn't work for me. I don't want to spoil the story for anyone, so I will just say that is was almost as if someone said there had to be a twist and huge problem for the romance to work. I disagree. I think the mystery of what happened to Marissa could have ended a bit differently. Up until that point, this was a solid 4 star read for me, but I am dropping off half a star. Again, this is a slow burn, closed door romance with great characters, cute dogs and lots of great places to visit for the armchair traveler. This is Catherine Hope's debut and I will be watching for more books from her in the future.
April 19, 2023
I’m not a big romance reader, but there are a few key elements that will draw me in. Lost letters and the mysterious death of a loved one, are bound to catch my attention.
Luckily for me, both of these elements formed a strong basis for The Last Message. Lizzie, a travel photo blogger and freelance journalist, is using her travels to deal with the death of her twin brother, Rob. She clumsily loses her phone on the ferry to Savage Cove, a small and quaint seaside settlement she plans on calling home for the next six weeks. Unable to buy a new phone immediately, she buys a secondhand phone to keep her on the network while she waits for her new phone to arrive.
When Lizzie receives a text message on her brand-new secondhand phone late at night, she is haunted and intrigued by the message. Obviously a last message. Who sent it? And who was the recipient suppose to be?
On the other side of the coin, we have Nick. A brooding widower who just happens to be a multimillionaire with a very cute dog.
Are these two grieving and searching for happiness souls bound to cross paths? And is there more to the death or presumed death, of Nick’s wife than the obvious facts?
The Last Message is an intriguing love story filled with mystery and a profound sense of hope and redemption.
Full review available @ Elza Reads
Luckily for me, both of these elements formed a strong basis for The Last Message. Lizzie, a travel photo blogger and freelance journalist, is using her travels to deal with the death of her twin brother, Rob. She clumsily loses her phone on the ferry to Savage Cove, a small and quaint seaside settlement she plans on calling home for the next six weeks. Unable to buy a new phone immediately, she buys a secondhand phone to keep her on the network while she waits for her new phone to arrive.
When Lizzie receives a text message on her brand-new secondhand phone late at night, she is haunted and intrigued by the message. Obviously a last message. Who sent it? And who was the recipient suppose to be?
On the other side of the coin, we have Nick. A brooding widower who just happens to be a multimillionaire with a very cute dog.
Are these two grieving and searching for happiness souls bound to cross paths? And is there more to the death or presumed death, of Nick’s wife than the obvious facts?
The Last Message is an intriguing love story filled with mystery and a profound sense of hope and redemption.
Full review available @ Elza Reads
March 20, 2023
#TheLastMessage #NetGalley
Lizzie has been grieving her brother's death for awhile. She made a promise to him to travel and live life fully.
She rents a lovely cottage and has to get a loaned cell phone since hers was destroyed. One night she wakes up to a strange message on it.
The message is not for her, but she is so intrigued that she decides to investigate further.
Nick is a widower with a fantastic dog. He is still grieving.
The dog helps them meet on the beach and they form a friendship but there is a strong attraction between them.
They both feel it but they are both stuck in grief so they take a small bit of time figuring out what to do about it.
I liked the characters, Lizzie was down to earth and real, Nick was a nice guy, the dog well loved the dog.
The story was really good however for me, the pacing of it was disjointed and choppy. At times it flew right along and other times it just dragged way out
Overall the book was good, not 5 star but enjoyable and good. One part for me was just odd but I won't say which part to avoid a spoiler.
So I would recommend the book for people who want a mostly feel good romance with other emotions mixed in.
4****
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to give my honest review.
Lizzie has been grieving her brother's death for awhile. She made a promise to him to travel and live life fully.
She rents a lovely cottage and has to get a loaned cell phone since hers was destroyed. One night she wakes up to a strange message on it.
The message is not for her, but she is so intrigued that she decides to investigate further.
Nick is a widower with a fantastic dog. He is still grieving.
The dog helps them meet on the beach and they form a friendship but there is a strong attraction between them.
They both feel it but they are both stuck in grief so they take a small bit of time figuring out what to do about it.
I liked the characters, Lizzie was down to earth and real, Nick was a nice guy, the dog well loved the dog.
The story was really good however for me, the pacing of it was disjointed and choppy. At times it flew right along and other times it just dragged way out
Overall the book was good, not 5 star but enjoyable and good. One part for me was just odd but I won't say which part to avoid a spoiler.
So I would recommend the book for people who want a mostly feel good romance with other emotions mixed in.
4****
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to give my honest review.
March 28, 2023
Lizzie has been traveling around, drifting from place to place, writing her travel blog. This was a promise she made to her brother Rob, before he died, that she'd follow her heart and do what made her happy. Her travels take her to Savage Cove, a small town in the upper Northwest, where she rents a house on the beach.
Nick has been a widower for 3 years, ever since his wife Marissa died. He's got a lot of mixed feelings about her death and their relationship that come out throughout the story. When he runs into Lizzie on the beach, and an attraction forms, both are hesitant. Then through a fluke, Lizzie gets a text message on a loaner phone meant for Marissa. She doesn't know who sent it, but eventually works out that it was Nick, but she keeps her knowledge of the message a secret from him.
Their story is one of secrets, emotional reactions based on past experiences and its also a mystery. What happened to Marissa, whose body was never found? Its an interesting story with a good premise, a bit slow at times, but good. I do wonder why no past relationships are mentioned for Lizzie, though, other than her brother. She clearly had some experience based on the slightly heated scenes, nothing graphic, though, don't worry!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Nick has been a widower for 3 years, ever since his wife Marissa died. He's got a lot of mixed feelings about her death and their relationship that come out throughout the story. When he runs into Lizzie on the beach, and an attraction forms, both are hesitant. Then through a fluke, Lizzie gets a text message on a loaner phone meant for Marissa. She doesn't know who sent it, but eventually works out that it was Nick, but she keeps her knowledge of the message a secret from him.
Their story is one of secrets, emotional reactions based on past experiences and its also a mystery. What happened to Marissa, whose body was never found? Its an interesting story with a good premise, a bit slow at times, but good. I do wonder why no past relationships are mentioned for Lizzie, though, other than her brother. She clearly had some experience based on the slightly heated scenes, nothing graphic, though, don't worry!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
February 9, 2023
After the death of her twin brother, Lizzie starts to fulfill a promise to travel and see the world. First stop, a small island town off the coast of Seattle. But after losing her phone and having to deal with a refurbished one, things don't seem to be going in her way. Then, things start looking up when she gets a message meant for someone else and begins a friendship with a man she keeps meeting on the beach.
This was a hard one for me. I liked the premise. I liked the characters. I loved the setting. But so much of the rest fell short. Lizzie and Nick were perfect for each other. They have a cute romance after some immediate attraction. The mystery of Marissa, the wife that disappeared three years ago, was also compelling. However, there were large chunks that were slow, too slow. I needed more action or suspense. It was almost as if the book didn't know what it wanted to be: a cozy romance or a mystery. The ending, being pretty abrupt, dropped me down a star. I was honestly surprised it ended when it did. I kept clicking to find more, but there wasn't anything.
All in all, an interesting read. I know it will find it's audience!
-mystery
-dealing with loss
-small town
This was a hard one for me. I liked the premise. I liked the characters. I loved the setting. But so much of the rest fell short. Lizzie and Nick were perfect for each other. They have a cute romance after some immediate attraction. The mystery of Marissa, the wife that disappeared three years ago, was also compelling. However, there were large chunks that were slow, too slow. I needed more action or suspense. It was almost as if the book didn't know what it wanted to be: a cozy romance or a mystery. The ending, being pretty abrupt, dropped me down a star. I was honestly surprised it ended when it did. I kept clicking to find more, but there wasn't anything.
All in all, an interesting read. I know it will find it's audience!
-mystery
-dealing with loss
-small town
April 7, 2023
What a beautiful book.
I loved going on Lizzie’s journey with her. From losing her phone, to meeting Nick and beyond. I was fully invested in where the promise would take her.
Both Lizzie and Nick are dealing with a myriad of emotions including grief and guilt, but meeting each other brings a happiness to their lives they have been missing.
What I enjoyed most was how invested I was in both Nick & Lizzie. And with dual POV it gave the perfect insight into their emotions and what was driving them.
Oh, and that mystery. I was completely intrigued and extremely torn. I was loving reading about this new love, but equally wanted to know more about the Lady of the Sea (as Lizzie named her). It was brilliant.
I wished I lived somewhere like Savage Cove. It sounds like a little piece of heaven of earth especially with a cute little cafe. ☕️🥰
The reason I can only give 4 stars is hard to explain without giving any spoilers, but it felt a little rushed & left me with questions.
Overall, I loved this book. A gorgeous book about loss, self-discovery and love.
Thank you, Felicia from Headline Publishing Group, for reaching out and providing me with a physical copy & to NetGalley for making it possible for me to request the book in the first place.
I loved going on Lizzie’s journey with her. From losing her phone, to meeting Nick and beyond. I was fully invested in where the promise would take her.
Both Lizzie and Nick are dealing with a myriad of emotions including grief and guilt, but meeting each other brings a happiness to their lives they have been missing.
What I enjoyed most was how invested I was in both Nick & Lizzie. And with dual POV it gave the perfect insight into their emotions and what was driving them.
Oh, and that mystery. I was completely intrigued and extremely torn. I was loving reading about this new love, but equally wanted to know more about the Lady of the Sea (as Lizzie named her). It was brilliant.
I wished I lived somewhere like Savage Cove. It sounds like a little piece of heaven of earth especially with a cute little cafe. ☕️🥰
The reason I can only give 4 stars is hard to explain without giving any spoilers, but it felt a little rushed & left me with questions.
Overall, I loved this book. A gorgeous book about loss, self-discovery and love.
Thank you, Felicia from Headline Publishing Group, for reaching out and providing me with a physical copy & to NetGalley for making it possible for me to request the book in the first place.
April 11, 2023
My first from this author and sadly it most likely will be my last. The premise was very intriguing with Lizzie finding a message from a man to his presumed wife/lover on a refurbished cell phone and the way her discovery of its former owner changes her life forever. Lizzie's burgeoning relationship with the closed-off Nick is a sweet one and I did enjoy how their romance unfolded. The addition of the mystery of the cell phone made for a multi-layered story but sadly the book lost its way more than once with Lizzie's silly reactions and the sudden appearance of a long-lost 'love'.
In fact, the last 1/4 of the book was downright ridiculous and could have been so much better with more sensible reactions from Nick, Lizzie and the mysterious person who wants to wreak havoc on their lives. I was hoping for more and was disappointed about how the story ultimately unfolded. It almost seemed as if the author didn't know how to tie things up and made it way easier than it should have been for our couple to find their happily ever after. And it's too bad since I did like the first part of the book and how Lizzie and Nick both find each other and are able to unload the burdens that have plagued them. But overall, the story just wasn't for me.
2.5 stars.
In fact, the last 1/4 of the book was downright ridiculous and could have been so much better with more sensible reactions from Nick, Lizzie and the mysterious person who wants to wreak havoc on their lives. I was hoping for more and was disappointed about how the story ultimately unfolded. It almost seemed as if the author didn't know how to tie things up and made it way easier than it should have been for our couple to find their happily ever after. And it's too bad since I did like the first part of the book and how Lizzie and Nick both find each other and are able to unload the burdens that have plagued them. But overall, the story just wasn't for me.
2.5 stars.
February 18, 2023
Thank you so much NetGalley and Headline for an advance read in exchange for this review.
Lizzie's twin brother passes away and makes her promise that she will live her life, travel, and write. She travels to a small island town close to Seattle to stay on the beach. She meets Nick, whose wife died three years ago.
I liked a lot of the book. I thought Lizzie was a great character. Nick seemed like a decent person too with a good dad. I loved the dogs. The small town setting was charming. However, this book could not decide if it wanted to be a mystery or a romance. I think it had all the things for a sweet romance involving two people learning to move on from their grief. I didn't think the mystery aspect that was introduced near the end was necessary at all. It was rushed. The ending did not feel like it was resolved, so I am not sure what to make of that. Also, the book would go from first person to third person. That was confusing. It's too bad because I liked 3/4 of the book. I did like the Marissa stuff in the beginning, but it really took over the book at the end.
Lizzie's twin brother passes away and makes her promise that she will live her life, travel, and write. She travels to a small island town close to Seattle to stay on the beach. She meets Nick, whose wife died three years ago.
I liked a lot of the book. I thought Lizzie was a great character. Nick seemed like a decent person too with a good dad. I loved the dogs. The small town setting was charming. However, this book could not decide if it wanted to be a mystery or a romance. I think it had all the things for a sweet romance involving two people learning to move on from their grief. I didn't think the mystery aspect that was introduced near the end was necessary at all. It was rushed. The ending did not feel like it was resolved, so I am not sure what to make of that. Also, the book would go from first person to third person. That was confusing. It's too bad because I liked 3/4 of the book. I did like the Marissa stuff in the beginning, but it really took over the book at the end.
April 11, 2023
This is my first Catherine Hope novel. It is definitely a slow-burn romance with a bit of mystery involved.
When Lizzie comes to Savage Cove she is there to start a new life without her beloved twin brother. She promised him she would pursue her travel writing career and find peace in her life. What she found was an intriguing text message, a mysterious disappearance, and a brooding widower who captures her heart.
The love story between Lizzie and Nick is a slow and steady build with moments of joy and promise and then it seems to drag on. They are both broken from the loss of someone close to them which causes hesitation and doubts. It's frustrating at best and I found some parts repetitive and unnecessary. As for the mystery of the missing person, I found it hindered the story, especially at the end. I could have done without it actually.
If you enjoy sweet and mysterious love stories with lovely characters and gorgeous Pacific Northwest scenery, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Hope for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
When Lizzie comes to Savage Cove she is there to start a new life without her beloved twin brother. She promised him she would pursue her travel writing career and find peace in her life. What she found was an intriguing text message, a mysterious disappearance, and a brooding widower who captures her heart.
The love story between Lizzie and Nick is a slow and steady build with moments of joy and promise and then it seems to drag on. They are both broken from the loss of someone close to them which causes hesitation and doubts. It's frustrating at best and I found some parts repetitive and unnecessary. As for the mystery of the missing person, I found it hindered the story, especially at the end. I could have done without it actually.
If you enjoy sweet and mysterious love stories with lovely characters and gorgeous Pacific Northwest scenery, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Hope for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
April 6, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
I liked the slow burn of this romance as the two main characters struggle with their pasts. In particular I thought Lizzie's feelings and emotions around the death of Rob, her twin, were portrayed very well and completely credible, including her loyalty to her promise to travel and make the most of every moment. I thought it was a little strange that even with her therapy and mindfulness sessions she didn't have the insight to realise that changing her plans as she adapted to new events was part of her promise. The ending to the mystery was unsurprising, and I thought that things were not cleared up as efficiently and effectively as they could have been with proper police / lawyer involvement so these reduced my rating from a 5-star excellent read to an average 3 star. However, I am glad I read it to the end, the pages of little happening as Lizzie and Nick explore their thoughts and feelings were well-written and an important part of the book.
I liked the slow burn of this romance as the two main characters struggle with their pasts. In particular I thought Lizzie's feelings and emotions around the death of Rob, her twin, were portrayed very well and completely credible, including her loyalty to her promise to travel and make the most of every moment. I thought it was a little strange that even with her therapy and mindfulness sessions she didn't have the insight to realise that changing her plans as she adapted to new events was part of her promise. The ending to the mystery was unsurprising, and I thought that things were not cleared up as efficiently and effectively as they could have been with proper police / lawyer involvement so these reduced my rating from a 5-star excellent read to an average 3 star. However, I am glad I read it to the end, the pages of little happening as Lizzie and Nick explore their thoughts and feelings were well-written and an important part of the book.
April 19, 2023
This was a 3.5-star read for me. The blurb drew me in; the premise was promising and I enjoyed the book but the ending felt rushed and unsatisfying.
After losing her phone to the ocean, Lizzie temporarily purchases a refurbished phone while waiting for her new phone to arrive. That night she receives a text message meant for someone else. The message is intriguing and reminds her of her own grief.
She's in Savage Cove fulfilling the promise she made to her twin brother before he passed away.
Nick, is a widower who lost his wife over three years ago. She disappeared off their sailboat and some people suspected Nick had something to do with it.
They happen to meet each other on the beach when his energetic dog begins to play with her. The attraction is there for both of them. Because of their pasts, they proceed to get to know each other cautiously but definitely falling for each other.
Until the past comes back to haunt them.
Thank you so much to the author, CaffeinatedPR, HeadlineEternal for this ARC to review.
After losing her phone to the ocean, Lizzie temporarily purchases a refurbished phone while waiting for her new phone to arrive. That night she receives a text message meant for someone else. The message is intriguing and reminds her of her own grief.
She's in Savage Cove fulfilling the promise she made to her twin brother before he passed away.
Nick, is a widower who lost his wife over three years ago. She disappeared off their sailboat and some people suspected Nick had something to do with it.
They happen to meet each other on the beach when his energetic dog begins to play with her. The attraction is there for both of them. Because of their pasts, they proceed to get to know each other cautiously but definitely falling for each other.
Until the past comes back to haunt them.
Thank you so much to the author, CaffeinatedPR, HeadlineEternal for this ARC to review.
May 2, 2024
A simple, yet classic boy meets girl and fate steps in. There were a few twists and turns but nothing to onerous. The characters of Nick and Lizzie are both dealing with the loss of a loved one. Nick his wife and Lizzie her twin brother, the last remaining member of her family. After a mishap with a phone whilst out whale watching, Lizzie has to get an emergency phone while she waits for the local phone shop to order in a new one. That night she receives a message from a number from someone saying goodbye. As she later finds out, this was Nick messaging his wife. Throughout the story they meet and become very good friends and then lovers.
By the end of the story Nick and Lizzie are engaged. Nick's 'dead wife' turns up having faked her death and run away. She tries to cause trouble but Lizzie been a character of good gumption stands up to her and she doesn't get her own way. (this i realised earlier on in the story, as elements of the death didn't add up) Overall a goo read.
By the end of the story Nick and Lizzie are engaged. Nick's 'dead wife' turns up having faked her death and run away. She tries to cause trouble but Lizzie been a character of good gumption stands up to her and she doesn't get her own way. (this i realised earlier on in the story, as elements of the death didn't add up) Overall a goo read.
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