Book Review: Summer at Rose Island.

You know that feeling of contentment when you return home having been away for a little while? That’s what it felt like to pick up Summer at Rose Island, the third book in Holly Martin’s White Cliff Bay series, which was released last week.

All the familiar characters from the previous books make an appearance and it’s like catching up with old friends (although you don’t need to have read the others to appreciate this latest novel). Then there is the place itself, which always inspires me to open up rightmove to see if we can afford a home by the sea (we can’t).

This time we get to meet two new main characters – Riley and Darcy – and they are every bit as likeable and engaging as the rest.

Here’s the blurb:

Darcy Davenport is ready for a fresh start. Determined to leave a string of disastrous jobs and relationships behind her, she can’t wait to explore White Cliff Bay and meet the locals.

When Darcy swims in the crystal clear waters of the bay, she discovers the charming Rose Island Lighthouse. But it’s not just the beautiful building that she finds so intriguing…

Riley Eddison doesn’t want change. Desperate to escape the memories of his past, he lives a life of solitude in the lighthouse. Yet he can’t help but notice the gorgeous woman who swims out to his island one day.

Darcy is drawn to the mysterious and sexy Riley, but when it seems the town is trying to demolish his home, she soon finds herself having to pick sides.

She’s fallen in love with White Cliff Bay. But is that all Darcy’s fallen for?

I love (and envy) Holly’s style of writing, it’s a pleasure to read. This novel feels rich in detail -although you never really notice it because the story flows so well. Her characters always seem real and, as such, are easy to care about. I stayed up way too late reading it because I needed to know what happened.

It is clear almost from the start that Darcy is eventually going to have to pick sides and we discover along the way the reasons why it’s going to be hard for her to make a choice. Both characters are vulnerable because of the past but, naturally, love eventually helps win the day.

Holly sets everything up to create a sweet, lively and funny read, perfect for the beach (or even a cold May night cuddled under your duvet).

If you fancy giving it a try you can read the first chapter for free via Holly’s blog here.

Price: £1.99 Kindle edition.

Rating: Four stars from me.